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Reasons dogs love this dog rain jacket: Greater comfort in wet weather Full coverage from head to tail with integrated hood Reflective piping for increased visibility and safety No more wet fur! Machine washable and easy to clean Available in a variety of colors. Reasons our must-have dog sweater vest is a favorite: Hugs your dog with warmth and security Helps calm anxious pets Perfect for layering under our winter coat and rain coat Machine washable and easy to clean Available in a variety of colors. Protecting Your Pup Voyagers K9 Apparel remains fully committed to protecting your pup in any season. We design stylish breed-specific dog coats that fit the unique body shape and proportions of many breeds. The result? Greater comfort with optimal coverage of your dog. If your dog has unusual proportions, is a mixed breed, or another purebred that is not included in our list for breed-specific apparel , order a custom dog coat for a dog coat that fits. When you purchase dog clothing from Voyagers K9 Apparel, you can count on durable construction for seasons of everyday use. Voyagers K9 Apparel has been making quality coats in the USA for dogs of any size or shape since .Sep 13, Share Halloween is one of the most enjoyed holidays of the year. It is also a family occasion, which may inspire you to bring your beloved golden retriever along, and of course, your pet must get into the spirit of the season too. Figuring out your own costume is difficult enough, but choosing one for your furry friend can be overwhelming. Well, we have made it more of a simple and fun occasion for you. Check out our list of unique, hilarious, spooky, and traditional costume ideas we have racked up for your golden retriever. The Pumpkin Dog Image Credit: akc. This costume features a body suit resembling a pumpkin with a green collar. The top of the pumpkin is included with a sweet cap that attaches with an adjustable toggle. You can get creative with your crafting or sewing skills on this project. Superman If superheroes are your thing, then Superman is often a solid favorite. This costume will be sure to earn you a jack o lantern full of candy or steal the show at any party. Cereal Bowl You can fashion this cereal bowl costume by making a giant cardboard spoon and wrapping it up in foil for a steel look. Harry Pawter The Harry Potter franchise took the world by storm and earned it massive popularity. You will see several Harry Potter characters walking the streets during Halloween, and your furry companion will love to be part of the magical group. Your pup will turn heads and lift spirits when they walk alongside you dressed as a hotdog. If you are unable to find this unique costume, try your hand at DIY with felt and easily create your own unique hotdog costume. Pineapple Pineapples have somehow become a trendy print in current fashion and can make a cute and quirky costume for your golden retriever. All you need is a body jacket that resembles the texture of a pineapple and a headband with the green top part of a pineapple. This costume can be an easy DIY project if you have basic sewing skills. If you can get your hands on one of these costumes, your dog will look adorable and most likely cause many giggles and smiles. What makes this costume so effective is that from the front, it looks just like a short minion walking on its own, but with the face of your beloved golden retriever. Canine Cowboy What a great idea to turn your sidekick into a cowboy for Halloween, especially if you enjoy western movies. This costume is an easy one to create on your own. Those two elements will easily transform your pet into a cowboy, but you can add a cow print bodysuit to take it up a level. A lion is usually the king of the jungle, but your pup will be the king of Halloween with this costume. Hunter Golden Retrievers were originally bred as hunting dogs, and dressing them like a hunter is a fitting costume! All you need is a camo cap and one of your plaid shirts to create the hunter aesthetic. It is a costume that requires extra planning and effort, but it will surely steal the show. You can also follow this method of using stuffed toys to turn your dog into a spooky three-headed golden retriever. Wonder Woman As an owner of a Golden Retriever, you may believe your pet is a superhero. Females can be strong heroes too, and Wonder Woman is a great example. Find a stuffed teddy bear the same height and color as your pet. Use a piece of Velcro or soft ribbon to fasten it. This costume will be lightweight and comfortable as well as super cute. Simply find some fairy wings and a tutu or construct them yourself for a creative project. This costume is also a nice change from the classic spooky-themed costumes, and your sweet pup will look adorable. Batman Batman was a hero for most boys growing up and is still a heroic icon today. If you are a DC comics fan, this is a great costume choice for your canine. You can trick or treat by its side dressed as Robin or the Joker to complete this costume as a DC Halloween duo. Lobster If you are looking for a costume that is unique and out of the box, then this lobster costume will do the trick. It is not something you would typically see at Halloween, but it is a fun and silly idea that will amuse everyone at the party. Pirate Pooch If your golden retriever likes to steal your things, then a pirate is a fitting theme for a mischievous friend. You can also purchase a plastic sword and a jack o lantern of chocolate gold coins to add an element of Halloween. Garden Gnome A garden gnome is a symbol of good luck and is sometimes used in gardens for protection. So why not dress your protector as a cute and naughty garden gnome this Halloween? It is a unique idea that will impress your friends, and your Golden Retriever will look adorable. Select a red pointy hat and fake beard, and hunt down some fake ears to achieve this comical and fun look. Viking This is a costume idea you can share and hit the streets trick or treating as a pair of strong and brave Vikings. All you need to find is a soft Viking hat for your golden retriever and wool to make Viking braids. Trick or Treating Ghost A ghost is a classic element of Halloween, and dressing your Golden Retriever as one is easy and effective. Then add a jack o lantern bucket to collect treats. This quick and easy DIY costume is ideal if need a costume fast. Roman Centurion If you have a keen interest in history, specifically Roman history, then you will enjoy this costume idea. All you need is a robe, which is easy to find or make yourself, and a pileus that you can find at your local costume or party store. Your regal pet will attract attention with this unique costume idea. Witch There are usually several witches around on Halloween, but this costume is a classic favorite. Beauty and the Beast Beauty and the Beast is a childhood favorite, and you can pair up with your dog by dressing him up as the beastly prince while you get into the character of Belle. Flower Power Your Golden Retriever will brighten up the party and add some smiles with this happy sunflower costume. All you need is felt and basic sewing skills to pull this one off. Tiger King If you need last-minute inspiration, your golden retriever has the perfect coat to pull this costume off quickly and easily. You need cat ears and non-toxic spray paint to add tiger stripes. You can also make your own paint with cornstarch and food coloring for a safer option. Final Thoughts There are several costume ideas you can choose for your pet for the Halloween festivities.

At what age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? As larger dogs, Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to reach their full weight. Most Golden Retrievers will be close to their adult height and weight around a year of age but may need one more year to fill out their chest fully. A six-month-old male Golden Retriever will weigh between 35 to 45 pounds, while their female counterpart will weigh around 30 to 35 pounds at the same age. As for their height, most Golden Retrievers will still need another three to six months to reach their adult height. At this age, they will likely be a few inches away from their adult height, which ranges from .Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on bonding with your pet, puppy-proofing your home, training, microchips, and more! How much bigger will my Golden Retriever get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much bigger your Golden Retriever will get. If they are less than a year old, they still need more time to reach their full adult size. Many Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to completely fill out, though their weight at one year old is usually close to their full adult weight. A puppy is rarely larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you a general idea of their maximum weight. If their paws still look large or oversized next to their body and legs, they are probably still filling out and have some growing left to do, as this is a classic sign of adolescence in canines. What is the size of a full-grown Golden Retriever? As adults, Golden Retrievers will appear overall symmetrical and have a powerful body hidden beneath beautiful, golden fur. Golden Retrievers are stunning, sunny dogs that easily steal our hearts. Unfortunately, as a purebred dog breed, they are more susceptible to genetic diseases, which can compromise their lifespan and quality of life. However, many genetic disorders can be treated or prevented with regular veterinary care. Remember that prevention is almost always easier and less expensive than treatment. Your veterinarian may recommend a large-breed growth food to your Golden Retriever puppy to support their growth rate which can help prevent or decrease the severity of hip dysplasia in adulthood. According to the Veterinary Centers of America , Golden Retrievers are also more prone to gaining excess weight. Golden Retrievers are also susceptible to various genetic health disorders, such as oral tumors and aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis is most commonly found in large, purebred dogs, including Golden Retrievers, and occurs when the aortic valves to the heart narrow. Aortic stenosis causes the body to struggle to pump blood through the valve, creating additional stress on the body. If untreated, aortic stenosis can lead to muscle failure and even fatality. However, veterinarians can treat many genetic diseases like aortic stenosis and oral tumors through surgery and medication. Even with proper prevention and wellness care, necessary veterinary visits can be expensive, with many treatments costing thousands of dollars. Out of over 20, pet parents surveyed , only .The last thing you should be focused on when the worst happens is how to finance a needed surgery or treatment for your beloved pet. This is where pet insurance comes in. Just like people, dogs are living longer lives and will need additional veterinary care to maintain a happy quality of life. Let pet insurance help you with these costs should the worst happen to your dog. Wellness plans are also available as an add-on to help with the ongoing costs of regular veterinary care , like x-rays and exams. Act now and give yourself peace of mind knowing that your Golden Retriever is covered should anything happen. Compare top Golden Retriever pet insurance plans side-by-side with Pawlicy Advisor today! Key Takeaways On average, male Golden Retrievers weigh pounds and females weigh pounds. At full height, Goldens stand between .Although puppies groww extremely fast, the Golden Retriever breed can take as long as 2 years to reach full maturity. Owners should keep an eye on their Golden Retriever's diet because they are very prone to obesity. Pet insurance helps cover the cost of care necessary to give your Goldie a happy, healthy life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. The first vaccination for your Golden takes place between 6 to 8 weeks. Since everything is new to your pup, he might be timid and get easily scared. Golden puppies just left their source of security and are away from their littermates and mother for the first time. Bring your pup out to relieve him after every meal. Divide it into four small meals throughout the day. This is also the recommended age to start training. Housebreaking is especially important to avoid bad habits from developing. If you want him to be friendly to all, socialization at this age is also essential. This will help him grow familiar with strange sights, smells, and sounds. For the diet, stick to feeding him four small meals a day with the same amount mentioned for 7-week Goldens. After the vaccines, keep your Golden pup away from other pets for at least two weeks. Golden Retriever at 3 months This allows them to have full immunity, especially against the fatal parvovirus. They are becoming more curious, and you might have a problem with biting. Stay calm and teach him gently but firmly that he is not allowed to chew on you or anything else, except his chew toy. You can also acclimate him to grooming. Get him used to being combed and his paws handled. Introduce him to the blowdryer and praise him when he stays calm. You can start to be more serious about training. Spread 2 cups of kibble over the day, and cut one meal out by the end of the week. He should also be picking up basic commands. If your pup is quick to learn, kick it up a notch by teaching him a few tricks. Golden Retriever at 5 months Offer some chew toys that you can cool in the fridge to alleviate him discomfort. You may also start exercising him for 20 minutes a day, as this is the stage where he should show excitement for the outdoors. Swimming, fetch, and walking are great to start things off. Some Goldens are potty-trained around the 4-month mark, although accidents might still occur. He will have the body of an adult, but the legs and tail of a puppy. Golden Retriever at 6 months Also, his nose and ears will grow faster, so you end up with a goofy-looking pup. You need to be careful with him for the next six months because this is when they are most vulnerable to developing hip dysplasia. Avoid long walks, going down the stairs, and stopping suddenly while running. The pressure from those activities might cause joints to deform. Your Golden may also start to display signs of sexual maturity in the next few months, if not neutered or spayed. Some of them never grow out of it and will stay young at heart into their old age. To be sure he is free from hip dysplasia, have him checked by the vet when he is two years old. When do Golden Retrievers stop growing? Golden Retrievers grow the fastest between 3 to 6 months of age. Around the six-month mark, their growth starts to taper off. This will prevent him from reaching his full potential. If left untreated, it can cause lasting damage to their bones, muscles, immune system, skin, and digestive system. Being ill for an extended period might also affect his development. Your puppy may be stunted due to malnutrition. Dangers of stunted or accelerated growth Some people prefer bigger Goldens, but some like them small, like Mini Golden Retrievers. This might lead to under or over-feeding, neither of which is ideal. Accelerated growth can cause hip or elbow dysplasia. It can also be responsible for bone disease and arthritis. Stunted Golden puppies, whether by illness or under-feeding, are generally weaker, and make them susceptible to falling sick. What is the best age to spay or neuter your pup? You can spay Golden Retriever puppies as early as 8 weeks old, but any time before they reach sexual maturity is preferred, which is around one year old. This will prevent undesirable behaviors such as marking, territorial behavior, or a fixation with toys. All of which are hard to correct when they manifest. For breeds that are predisposed to hip dysplasia, vets recommend spaying around the 6-month mark. Will neutering or spaying your Golden pup affect his or her growth? Yes, fixing a Golden before they reach sexual maturity generally causes your dog to grow bigger. This is because sex hormones suppress growth hormones. Without growth inhibition, your Golden will continue to grow. Aside from joint problems, there are also a few issues connected to spaying or neutering. They can become more prone to some forms of cancer. Some dogs also experience a change in behavior after the operation. The lack of estrogen can make female dogs more aggressive. Male dogs may also experience an increase in fearfulness. Sexual maturity usually occurs in Golden around 8 to 12 months. This gives you ample time to decide whether to sterilize or not. How heavy is a newborn Golden Retriever puppy? But, puppies as small as 10 oz at birth have been recorded. They usually leave their mom at 10 lbs. Also, bigger litters generally have smaller puppies, but they should all catch up by their 8th week. How to identify an overweight Golden Retriever? Use your eyes and hands to assess if your Golden is overweight or not. A survey in showed that .While it might look cute or funny, overweight dogs actually have shorter lifespans. Being excessively chubby shaves off two years and causes health issues. Do Golden Retriever types have different growth rates? Show dogs are often heavier than working dogs. Aside from other factors we mentioned, a nutritious diet and an active lifestyle will help keep your Golden healthy and happy. Remember, their final size will vary from one another, depending on variation and pedigree. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! By Tom Massey Mar 02, Adopting a golden retriever is one of the best decisions you can make. These loving dogs are constantly praised for their gentle and calm, yet playful nature, making them perfect dogs for all walks of life and types of families. So when you do finally bring your Golden Retriever puppy home, you want to do everything you can to give them a long and healthy life for years to come. This is a wide range, so keep in mind that the weight of your Retriever will vary depending on genetic factors and sex. For example, female Golden Retrievers will weigh closer to 55 pounds while Golden Retriever males are heavier and will weigh closer to 75 pounds. Females also typically reach their full size by their first birthday, while males may continue growing through their second year. You can usually tell the size males and females will be based on what their parents look like, which is why Snowy Pines encourages meeting the parents or browsing through their photos and biographies online. Then, calculate 1. What to Expect: This age is crucial for mother-puppy bonding since he will depend on his mother for food, cleaning, and socialization. Image Source Weeks months Golden Retriever Male Weight: Between 8 to 12 weeks, your male puppy will average between 10 to 22 pounds. Golden Retriever Female Weight: Although females will grow to be smaller than males, they are typically around the same weight at this age group. The puppies become very playful, curious, and discover their voices little by little. Introductory training like house training is essential. Socialization is also important, which is why Snowy Pines ensures that all puppies stay with their littermates until adoption. For female puppies, 6 months is a little over the halfway point to their full-size, and males are essentially smaller versions of their adult bodies. Remember, at this age, you can multiply by two to determine their adult weight! What to Expect: Socialization is still crucial at this age, and more intense training can also begin. The puppy should also be kept in happy and safe environments, as any exposure to something fearful at this age may impact him long-term. This is entirely normal: Think of your puppy as a teenager who is going through adolescence and waiting for the rest of his body to catch up. They may get territorial and challenge you and other pets for dominance. Most Golden Retrievers will be fully grown by 24 months old, although this varies. Golden Retriever Female Weight: In most cases, females are finished growing before 16 to 24 months. Whatever their nature is like at the to month mark is likely what it will be throughout their adult life. They are loyal, friendly, and calm, making them the perfect companion for small and large families alike. However, Goldens are susceptible to certain illnesses and diseases that are common in bigger breeds that are typically caused by overfeeding, stunted or accelerated growth, and genetic issues. One of the most common diseases that goldens experience is Osteochondritis dissecans OCD. OCD is a developmental disease that affects large-breed dogs because of the accelerated growth they experience. It is an inflammatory condition that causes abnormal cartilage development on the end of a bone in the joint. This can lead to joint problems like arthritis and hip dysplasia which commonly appears in the elbow, hip, and knee. Image Source The good news is that, although larger breeds like golden retrievers are prone to joint issues like this, you may be able to help prevent it through proper practice. OCD is a specific disease that is more common in dogs that receive too much energy and calcium in their diets. Other common factors are genetics, rapid growth, and hormonal factors. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, and all that extra weight can leave your puppy with skeletal abnormalities that put too much weight on joints. Another way to avoid accidentally stunted or accelerated growth is to ensure your golden retriever puppy is getting fed appropriately and receiving the right amount of calories. Image Source Months Between 2 and 4 months old, your puppy should eat 4 times per day with 2 ounces per meal. This will add up to 7 to 9 ounces per day, depending on how much he willingly eats. Keep him on puppy food through his first year before switching to young adult food. They must receive regular exercise every day. However, this depends on their age. As previously covered, the more your puppy grows, the more susceptible to common diseases like joint problems. Breeders with years of experience, like the team at Snowy Pines, work hard to keep pure bloodlines so that all of the parents and their litters are as healthy as they can be, which helps guarantee a lifetime full of happiness without any issue. Share on. Not all goldens will grow to the same size and at the same rate. The size of the parents is always a good indicator of whether your dog will be above or below average in size. However, while natural variation is nothing to worry about, stunted growth or accelerated growth is. If a golden retriever puppy is malnourished or suffering from an unidentified medical condition usually hookworm or ringworm , their natural growth can be compromised. This can lead to serious medical issues in later life, as it can leave them with weak bones, weak muscles, and a weak immune system, as well as a tendency to develop both skin and digestive issues. Growing too quickly, largely as a result of overfeeding, can also pose a major health risk. As well as leading to obesity, carrying too much weight at the development stage can leave your golden retriever with skeletal abnormalities, hip dysplasia, and osteochondrosis , a condition that affects the joints. With these tips, you will help fight off those genetic health disorders as well. Appropriate Diet Start off by speaking to your vet for guidance on foods to use for the different life stages. At the very least, you will need a nutritionally complete and balanced diet made for large breeds. Good food will help your pup gain the right amount of weight, look healthy, and have enough energy. Proper exercise will build their muscle and bone strength, prevent obesity, increase their agility, stop destructive behavior, and help them release pent-up energy. Vaccines will help to prevent infectious diseases such as hepatitis, parvovirus, rabies, and distemper, all of which could affect the growth and overall health of your puppy. This will be a plus for her overall health. It would also be great to have your vet do routine health checks on your puppy. This way, no issue will go unnoticed, and treatment can be administered early for better outcomes. A shiny coat and bright eyes are a plus. Alternatively, if you notice rapid weight gain or loss, unusual bumps and lumps on their skin, digestive issues, changes in behavior, and visual or hearing complications, take your dog to the vet right away. Compared to other breeds, Golden Retrievers, especially females, grow pretty quickly. Males could take up to 18 months to achieve the same milestone. However, both will still need an additional year to fill out the chest fully. Adult height, on the other hand, will be reached between 9 and 12 months. As always, females will get there a bit faster than males. You can get a rough idea of how big your golden retriever will grow by first studying the parents. Take note of the size that both of the parents and previous litters have had. Rarely will a puppy grow larger than its parents, so the measurements you gather will give you a better idea of how tall and heavy your golden retriever will get. Full-grown, healthy, male golden retrievers have a height of between 22 and 24 inches while the females are 20 to 22 inches tall. In terms of height and body structure, the Canadian golden retriever has no rival. Spaying and neutering specifically affect the development of bones and also ligament and tendon strength. In fact, some studies report higher incidences of cranial cruciate ligament tears and hip dysplasia among golden retrievers that went through this procedure. Therefore, consult your vet when deciding if and when to spay or neuter your dog. The weight of your golden retriever is a good indication of their healthy development. While male and female Goldens will have different weights and show goldens tend to be heavier than working goldens, overall, they should be hitting the weights listed in the growth and weight chart above. If your dog is not hitting these milestones, consult your vet about malnutrition, possibly caused by worms, and excessive golden retriever growth, which is often the result of overfeeding. If you feel like your pooch is missing any of them, again, it is time to consult your vet. In general, good nutrition and a loving home is a recipe for a happy and healthy golden retriever. If you want to know more about your golden retriever, you can do a DNA test, too. You can choose one of the tests below:.

The mother dog was my first bitch to give birth naturally. First bitch to give birth naturally Every breeder someday has bad luck; for me it was in and .An unsuccessful litter by means of a C-section and all the pups were still-born. Then a litter with only one pup, again a C-section. I had no choice but to keep this one pup, otherwise I would have lost one of my two breeding lines. Nobody could understand why I kept Happy because she was no beauty. I knew, however, that I had never had such an energetic and tenacious bitch. From the outset, these never-ending C-sections and unnatural rearings have been a thorn in my side. To this day, many breeders believe that English Bulldogs cannot give birth naturally and would die during a natural birth. The C-section appointment is determined in advance, without giving the bitch a chance to whelp. The mother dog is often so groggy after the birth due to the strong anaesthesia that the pups are not left with the mother because of the danger of being crushed. The mother comes into contact with her pups only as a milk bar. These breeders are convinced that they are raising their pups with special devotion! On 22 July , Happy began having dilation contractions, and I telephoned my veterinarian as usual for the birth. He had gone hunting and was not available. What now? So I tried what the vast majority of breeders fear to this day. Success: my first naturally born litter with six perfectly healthy pups L1 litter , whose mother could take care of them day and night. Happy, by the way, lived to be almost 12 years old and became the first Swiss Veteran Champion. A pup has just been born. This birth and the natural rearing the mother dog was always with the pups were a sensation on Facebook. I am now looking back on the fifth generation of naturally birthing Bulldog bitches, who have, by the way, very frequently placed very high in international shows. A Complete Guide Having a litter of puppies is an exciting and tiring experience! To watch those well-rounded puppies grow and head off to their forever homes to be lifetime companions is a magical moment. The entire puppy raising process starts at birth. Bulldogs have many health issues and daily exercise is taxing on their stocky frames. With their stubby legs and small bodies, many wonder if a bulldog can give birth naturally. In general, bulldog puppies are often too large for the birth canal. This requires the aid of a trained veterinarian to perform a c-section. However, some bulldog breeds do not require c-sections and can have a natural birth. Breeding bulldogs is complicated and not always the same from start to finish. While some conditions and issues are common when our bulldogs are expecting, bulldog breeds often present a few challenges. Some issues are natural breeding, whether they can whelp naturally, and even if they are pregnant which can be surprisingly difficult to determine. Can Bulldogs Get Pregnant Naturally? While the answer is yes, bulldogs can get pregnant naturally. First, with many bulldog breeds, the chest, shoulders, and head are much larger than their hips. What this means is that the dog is usually heavier in the front than they are in the back. When a male bulldog mounts a female, his front weight pushes down the backend of the female bulldog. This makes it very difficult for them to obtain a tie. Is My Bulldog Pregnant? Unfortunately, signs are few and far between for pregnant bulldogs and all dogs in general. In fact, most signs and symptoms do not occur until your bulldog is over 40 days pregnant. However, when you start to see signs, you can quickly determine if your female is pregnant or not. If you find that your dog is napping more than usual, especially around week 3, there is a good chance she is pregnant. Morning Sickness: I already mentioned this, but dogs can have mild sickness. This means she has decreased appetite around day 21 and may vomit. Increase in Appetite: This can be difficult to determine, but as the weeks progress, you should find that your pregnant dog eats more than usual. Nipple Changes: Every dog is different when it comes to nipple changes. Some changes are early in the pregnancy and others have none until close to delivery. However, you can usually spot differences in nipples by 3 or 4 weeks. Nipples will be slightly darker and will start to look rounded in shape. Finally, you may see hair loss around the nipples as her body prepares for nursing. Changes in Temperament: Another symptom that varies from dog to dog, changes in temperament are a good sign. Often, bulldogs become clingier or go off on their own. Any abnormal behavior for your dog could be a sign that she is pregnant. Your dog gains weight if she is pregnant, but most of the weight gain is seen closer to the end of the pregnancy. Knowing if your bulldog is pregnant is tricky because female bulldogs show few signs. How Long are Bulldogs Pregnant All dogs follow the same pregnancy schedule, regardless of breed, and will usually deliver their puppies on day 63 from ovulation. Breeders follow a guideline of 59 to 70 days from the date of the first breeding. Your bulldog should deliver any time in those 11 days, but frequently, they will deliver on day .You will usually know the date of ovulation and the vet will simply do the c-section on day 63 or when the bulldog shows signs that labor is imminent. What is a Bulldog Pregnancy Like? The best way to understand your pregnant bulldog is to learn about the weeks of pregnancy. With dogs, week 1 of pregnancy starts on the day of ovulation or the day of the first breeding. Bulldogs are pregnant for roughly 9 weeks before they deliver and a lot is happening during those weeks. Your bulldog female, or bitch, is bred this week and you may notice that she is a bit tired. Life should return to normal during this week. Regular activities should continue, and your dog will eat a normal amount of food. Your dog, more than likely, is in heat for another week , but you can continue with her regular schedule. She may be her usual self and return to how she was prior to her heat. During this week the vulva stays slightly swollen However, this can be hard to notice, especially in maiden bitches. Week Three: During this time, the embryos are finally attaching to the lining in the uterus. Too much weight gain can cause complications. During this week, you can get a blood test to detect relaxin, which indicates pregnancy. A slight increase in food is all that is needed. Your female bulldog can continue her usual activities and exercise at this stage of pregnancy. Week Five: Between day 30 and 35, after the first breeding, you can schedule an ultrasound to determine if your furry friend is pregnant. With your pregnant bulldog, you should start to see some weight gain. In addition, her appetite will increase and will need more food on a daily basis. Be careful not to overfeed her. In addition, avoid any strenuous activity, but incorporate daily exercise. Your pregnant bulldog may be tired and need small, frequent meals throughout the day. Week Six: You may notice that week six is when your bulldog begins to reduce how much she is eating. To help offset this, portion her meals into more feedings per day. Mood wise, she may be sleeping more. You may find that she is very uncomfortable and should monitor her behavior to know what she needs. See also Do Bulldogs Fart? And How to Stop It! Week Seven: Week seven is similar to the previous week. Your female will be uncomfortable, and she may start looking for a quiet place to sleep. She may also become clingier than usual. When week seven arrives, you are getting closer to delivery day! You should be able to feel puppies moving and your pregnant bulldog may start losing her hair around her nipples. Now is the time to start setting up a space for her to give birth. Week Eight: If you are planning to do an x-ray, now is the week to do it. During this time, the skeletons of the puppies have calcified enough to be picked up on an x-ray. This is a great way to find out how many puppies your bulldog is having and will help you plan for the delivery or c-section. Your pregnant bulldog may start producing milk this week, however, not all dogs produce milk at this stage. Some can start producing shortly after the puppies are born. Now is the time to keep a close eye on your female. Week Nine: This is the week when your pregnant bulldog is due! She can go any time and you want to watch for nesting behavior. In addition, her temperature should spike before dropping down by about 2 degrees Fahrenheit. Even if you are planning a c-section, monitor her temperature in case your pregnant bulldog goes into labor before the scheduled surgery. Bulldog Pregnancy Cycle. Written by Dog Owner Resources in Bulldog Last Updated While bulldog is a great breed for many reasons, they cannot give natural birth. Bully pups often have difficulty with size and getting through the vagina in order to be delivered by Caesarean section or otherwise- this makes it difficult if not impossible during the delivery time! In general, bulldog puppies are often too big for the birth canal. This requires the help of a trained veterinarian to perform a cesarean in most cases. However, some bulldog breeds do not require cesarean sections and can have a natural birth. Process of giving birth s generally known as parturition. Most dogs can give birth on their own without difficulty. But it would help if you kept a close eye on your dog during the last stage of pregnancy and delivery. If you need to take her to the veterinary doctor, take the pups she has already delivered with you in a separate and secure carriage with a heating pad or a hot water bottle to keep them warm. Ensure the hot water bottle is tightly wrapped in a towel or something similar to prevent the puppies from overheating or burning. In an emergency, contact your nearest vet immediately. Usually, in purebred dog breeds, a cesarean may be required due to the small birth canals of mothers or too large heads of puppies. Both situations lead to unexpected dystocia, which requires surgery. The surgical operation for cesarean sections is called a hysterotomy. The methodology and technique have been refined over the decades. Planned cesarean sections for dogs are safe, but there is still a small risk of unexpected cesarean sections, both for the mother and the puppies. Furthermore, with canine cesarean sections, the mother does not have the opportunity to instinctively bond with her offspring. Vets remove them by hand. Although this is generally not a problem, it may take longer for the mother to bond properly with her own litter of puppies. Yes, they also give birth naturally, but they have more problems than large breeds because their pups are more extensive than their birth canal. Small breed dogs usually have one to five puppies. If the average litter size increases, there is the possibility of dystocia that is not a natural birth. But we would recommend scanning and X-rays during pregnancy to determine litter size and pup size, and a selective cesarean section might be necessary if the vet believes the pups are too large to fit through his pelvis. Like all other Bulldogs, the English Bulldog is known for their large heads, and they are often the best candidates for a cesarean procedure. These breeds represent .Like American Bulldogs, this canine breed is known to produce large litters. Large litters tend to tire the mother during a standard delivery, making her too weak to push. On average, dogs can have up to 6 puppies in a litter, anything above this number is considered a large litter, and these Bulldogs can often produce up to 12 at a time. Another concern regarding large litter is that the mother cannot feed more than eight pups, requiring additional assistance for artificial feeding. Like the Boston terrier, these Bulldogs are prone to Anasarca. This condition is common among these short-nosed dog breeds. These English Bulldogs are also prone to dystocia due to their fetal-maternal disproportion. The heads of the puppies are not in proportion to the pelvic size of the mother. C- Section Due to the selective breeding of peculiar characteristics, these English Bulldogs have changed their shape and form. Also, the English Bulldog belongs to the brachycephalic group because of its large heads and short muzzles. These large heads make it impossible for a mother to experience a natural pup. Some cesarean sections have been reported to be elective to avoid respiratory problems in the dam as well. A more recent breed, the Olde English Bulldog is a healthier version of the world-renowned English Bulldogs with many health concerns. The Old British Bulldog is much less prone to C-sections. Other possible reasons why C-section is required in British Bulldogs: Bulldogs have a high incidence of cleft palate and water puppies. Normal labor can negatively affect the mother because she cannot breathe properly. Getting puppies can be extremely difficult for her. Therefore, it is advisable not to reproduce if you are not prepared to afford the costs. Any cesarean section performed more than three years can put your British Bulldog at serious risk. Also, it is quite dangerous to let them have a natural birth with this type of breed. English or British Bulldogs usually give birth to four or five puppies in a litter. Once you bring your Bulldog and her litter home from the vet hospital, keep a close eye on her. It is not unusual for English bulldog mothers to accidentally crush or suffocate their young. It is a good idea for safety to keep the litter in a separate, heated box and only put it with the mother for breastfeeding. You must ensure that the mother licks the puppies to stimulate the intestinal and urinary functions. At three weeks, you can introduce the puppies to solid food. Due to their short noses, puppies may have a difficult time chewing food. Ask your vet about special foods designed for bulldog puppies that will help their ability to eat. Can English Bulldogs Breed Naturally? If human intervention is not present until now, the Bulldog as it is now would be extinct. The English Bulldog can mate breed naturally, but, unfortunately, it can be hazardous to their health. The reason is that since they are anatomically incompatible in many cases, mating takes a long time to occur. During the process, they can become seriously overheated, which is very harmful to their health. C- Section Part of the problem is that English bulldogs have an innate drive to breed. Fifteen minutes of this activity can overheat them worse than half an hour in direct sunlight. Due to their sturdy, heavy-front bodies, English bulldogs need to be artificially inseminated to breed. A male English bulldog cannot mount and enter his mate without the help of a human. So yes, English bulldogs can mate naturally, but it is almost physically impossible. It is a hazardous activity and should be avoided. English Bulldog Labor Signs? About hours before labor starts, there will be a temporary drop in body temperature. The average temperature is .Twenty-four hours before delivery, the temperature may drop from 98 to 99 F. Labor — Stage I After the drop in temperature, stage I of labor begins, characterized by restlessness and anxiety. You may notice panting, refusal of food, pacing and perhaps vomiting. The nesting behavior begins. After settling into the whelping box, you may notice that your dog drags clothing or fabric into the area to form a comfortable bed. You must remove any clothes from the litter box when labor begins, or these clothes may get permanently stained. This stage of canine labor usually lasts 7 to 12 hours. If your dog has not started giving birth within 24 hours of beginning stage I labor, veterinary assistance is recommended. Labor — Stage II This labor stage is defined as the part of delivery when the puppy is born. Visible contractions begin. Her abdomen tightens, and the female dog starts to strain. This action will appear similar bowel movements during straining The first puppy should be born between 1 and 2 hours after the start of contractions. Veterinary assistance is highly recommended if the first puppy is not delivered within 2 hours of the onset of contractions. After giving birth, the female can enter a resting phase that can last up to 4 hours. The active effort will start anew, and more puppies will be delivered. If she knows there are additional pups to be born and the rest period is longer than 4 hours. This resting phase may not occur after every delivery. Sometimes multiple puppies can be born quickly. This is when the placenta is delivered after delivery and usually occurs 5 to 15 minutes after the puppy is delivered. If several puppies are born quickly, several placentas can be expelled together. After the complete removal of the placenta, the bitch will return to stage II of labor. Then she enters the resting phase, or in other words, she begins to contract. During delivery, the female will fluctuate between stage II and stage III until all the puppies are born. It is essential to keep track of the number of placentas. It depends upon the complications and surgical procedure, and time. Bulldogs, especially English Bulldogs, are the most expensive dogs to buy, but their cost varies depending on their color and quality. A Bulldog puppy is priced so high due to the following factors. English Bulldog Stud Service Cost English Bulldog stud services and artificial insemination also come at a high price. Pre-breeding preparations are also expensive. A few weeks after the stud service or artificial insemination has been performed, the bitch undergoes different prenatal procedures, including x-rays and ultrasounds, to detect pregnancy. If the tests confirm the pregnancy, the female needs vitamins and superior nutrition. The price is high because English Bulldog breeders face many problems during breeding. English Bulldogs have been labeled an unhealthy breed because they are prone to several health problems. They suffer from brachycephalic syndrome and are prone to progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, cystinuria, and more. Responsible British Bulldog breeders make sure their dogs undergo proper health screenings for genetic problems before deciding to breed them. Before mating their dogs or artificial insemination, good breeders also make sure the female is in good condition with scheduled vaccinations, heartworm prevention, and deworming. These accumulated expenses in preparing dogs for breeding cost breeders significantly. Yes, a dog has a natural birth after a cesarean section. If her cesarean scar is vertical, the vet cannot attempt VBAC. There is a very high risk that her scar will rupture break or open when she tries to have a vaginal delivery, which could cause significant harm to your dog and her puppies. She will need to have a C-section again. Most dogs have fully recovered from anesthesia when they are allowed to go home. During the immediate recovery period, the female dog must be closely monitored not to fall and hurt herself or crush and roll over the newborn pups. The pups should not be left alone with their mother dog until she is fully awake. She can stand alone and is interested in taking care of her puppies. Tip: Never give your dog any medications, including herbal preparations, without consulting her vet. The normal range is F .The typically British Bulldog takes approximately 63 days from conception to give birth, although this can vary by several days. While this may seem like a simple answer, conception is often challenging to determine. Canine sperms can live for several days inside the female, and the eggs can remain fertile for up to 46 hours, which means that the act of mating itself is not an exact measure of gestation. This makes it difficult to predict the length of pregnancy without the help of a veterinarian. Hormone measurements give a much more accurate time frame for gestation. Many breeders use vaginal swabs and blood tests to monitor pregnancy hormones during the breeding process. Duration of Gestation According to Precise Hormonal Measurements: days from the first day of the diestrus days from initial progesterone surge days from the first time the bitch allowed intercourse. Pregnancy in canines is relatively short compared to humans, around nine weeks total, and every day is essential. Stages of Dog Pregnancy Dogs go through the stages of pregnancy quickly. Gestation periods are comparatively short in dogs, meaning that the pups develop rapidly within the womb over two to three months. Month One During the early weeks, the embryos travel to the uterine horns, usually around day 8, and the embryos embed themselves in the uterine lining around day .The fetus begins to take shape on day 22, and on day 28 or 30, a vet should be able to detect fetal heartbeat on the ultrasound. Many female dogs do not show any symptoms during the first two to three weeks of pregnancy. Some signs to watch out for during the first month are: A decrease in physical activity. Slightly enlarged nipples Clear vaginal discharge around week four More affectionate behavior Morning sickness. Month Two Fetal development rushes during the second month. Eyelids are formed on day 32, and toes are visible on day .The signs of pregnancy in the bitch are much more evident during the second month: Clear, odorless discharge. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Dystocia difficulty in giving birth can occur for a variety of reasons. Both affect the English bulldog Johnston et al and lead to a very high rate of dystocia in this breed. Abnormalities of pelvic shape have been investigated in relation to dystocia in the Boston terrier and Scottish terrier Eneroth et al but, as far as we are aware, there have been no corresponding studies in the English bulldog. The foetal factor that is most likely to cause dystocia is a large head Johnston et al .The larger the puppy the greater the risk. The English bulldog is a brachycephalic breed. Dogs with brachycephalic airway disease have a shortened and distorted upper airway, narrow nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and an abnormal larynx voice box. Secondary to these airway obstructions, these dogs can develop collapsed airways, especially involving the larynx and trachea. These defects commonly make it difficult for the breed to breathe adequately whilst undertaking normal activity. Stress caused by exercise, excitement, heat or giving birth can exacerbate this and lead to collapse and death. It is likely that a proportion of the large number of caesarean sections carried out on English bulldogs are elective procedures arranged by breeders to avoid any chance of dystocia and the risk of asphyxiation of whelping bitches as might otherwise occur during the normal birth process Harvey .Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact Dystocia is a severe welfare problem for the affected bitch and, if untreated, it will usually lead to her death. Treatment of a bitch that is having difficulty giving birth involves transportation of the dog to a veterinary practice for examination and imposes further stressors for a brachycephalic dog with breathing difficulties. Uterine contractions are painful and control of this pain is difficult in the home environment, so any delay in the birth process causes more prolonged and severe pain than usual. Caesarean section is usually required to treat English bulldogs with dystocia. Unplanned, emergency caesarean sections are likely to have a higher welfare impact than either natural birth or elective caesarean, and a higher death rate for the puppies. Caesarean sections are major surgical procedures and anaesthesia presents particular risks to brachycephalic dogs because of their abnormal respiratory tracts and breathing difficulties. It is likely that a significant proportion of caesarean sections in English bulldogs are performed electively. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact If untreated, dystocia may continue for up to hours although, as this time goes on, mortality among the puppies will increase. If a caesarean is performed, there will be pain from the surgery for some days although effective analgesia should be available. A further issue is that if live puppies have been delivered and the bitch is to rear them normally then their sucking on a teat close to the surgical wound may cause her pain in the first week, or so, after the procedure. Return to top 4. English bulldogs were found in a study undertaken in Canada and the USA, to be in the top five of the breeds most likely to have elective and emergency caesarians Moon et al .From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are English bulldogs Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around 50, Return to top 5. Diagnosis A normal labour has three stages. In the first stage, the body prepares itself for birth with the cervix relaxing and dilating. During this stage, if left alone, the bitch in the wild would seek seclusion and dig a den. The second stage involves the loss of uterine fluids, progressively more vigorous straining, and birth of the puppies. The third stage of labour is delivery of the foetal membranes and, in dogs, this stage can be concurrent with the second stage, as membranes are sometimes expelled with their puppy. In some cases of dystocia, stage two never starts and dystocia is diagnosed once a dog is recognised not to have progressed from stage one to stage two after about 24 hours. Radiographs can be used to investigate if foetal-pelvic disproportion is the cause and to help in judging if normal birth will be possible. Return to top 6. The part of the canine genome responsible for brachycephaly has been identified and two genes have been implicated Bannasch et al .There are no genetic tests to help determine which dogs are least at risk of dystocia and therefore most suitable for use in breeding. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? All female English bulldogs are at risk of this condition. All puppies have the brachycephalic head shape and many bitches are unable to give birth naturally because of this and perhaps also because of pelvic abnormalities. Thus it is very difficult to find a puppy which has not been born via caesarean section. Ideally only puppies born by natural birth from a bitch that did not have dystocia, should be used for breeding. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem It might be argued that breeding from dogs that had been born naturally would help to select for a strain population able to give birth naturally in the future. However, any advantages that might bring would have to be 'weighed' carefully against the risks associated with allowing all births to progress naturally rather than undertaking elective caesarians to preclude the risk of dystocia. It might be possible to assess the size and shape of the pelvises of prospective mothers, as has been described for Boston and Scottish terriers by Eneroth et al .These authors found that bitches in which the pelvis was larger vertically than horizontally were less likely to suffer from dystocia. Breeding from such dogs, and from those with the greatest pelvic measurements, might be a reasonable approach and may be helpful in reducing the incidence of dystocia. However, this speculative proposal has not been validated and might be hard to undertake in practice. As yet no such scheme is in operation. Given the high proportion of animals that appear to suffer from foetal-pelvic disproportion in this breed, efforts to breed only from a minority judged to have the best chances of giving birth naturally might risk, through diminution of the size of the breeding population, inadvertent selection for other genetic diseases. Selecting for smaller head size in puppies is theoretically possible and, if successful, would probably help in reducing the incidence of dystocia. However, this might result also in unpredictable changes to other aspects of conformation or biology. Efforts directed at reducing the prevalence and severity of brachycephalic airway disease in the breed eg by out-crossing with dogs that are not affected with this disease would probably have an impact through reducing the severity of the brachycephaly itself. Return to top 9. Return to top .References Bennett D Normal and abnormal parturition. Its health has been affected by disease since it originated more than years ago as a renowned breed of English Bulldog. The large hips of dogs with a squashed face are difficult for breeders to mate, thus requiring an artificial insemination program to increase breedability and birth. To also comply with regulations concerning animals that may be subjected to dangerous or unnatural conditions, puppies must be rushed through surgery frequently. It may be difficult to find a puppy which has arrived naturally. For example, Olde English Bulldoge puppies typically range in size from 3 to 12 puppies to 6 dogs based on their gender and breed. In contrast, tracheal hypoplasia often encountered in English bulldogs does not apply to these pups. Can Bulldogs Whelp Naturally? In most cases, the bulldog has respiratory disease, skin problems, or inability to produce natural mates or birth, which is a problem because there were several years of selective breeding that undermined its strength and tenacity. Bulldogs have thin vaginal walls, this leads to problems in the delivery room because they need intervention to birth, therefore requiring C-sections to relieve the situation. Providers of cleft palate and cleft lip surgeries have performed numerous cleft palates since time immemorial but cost vary depending where you live and where you are located. A dam may have a normal delivery next time even if she has had a C-section if there is a valid reason for the c-section. Likewise, the fact that she is too small means it is often necessary to have her deliver more. For women with only one baby, then an xray should be scheduled on day 54 instead of day .It is common for Frenchies to not have natural reproduction of themselves naturally. That is due, perhaps, to the artificial insemination their mothers need to have sex. Due to their narrow hips, it is difficult to mount them. In addition to this physical quirk, too many natural births occur as a result of these kinds of defects. Dogs like the French Bulldog have narrow hips and broad heads. Deliveries from dogs are most likely to be simple and no effort is required. The following signs are not to be ignored: failing eyesight, lack of appetite, lack of motivation, or restless sleep. Make sure your veterinarian receives an emergency request for medical attention if your dog appears to have severe discomfort. Now What? Basics of Natural Mating When you look at an English bulldog not to be confused with the American Bulldog , two of the most striking features are their wrinkles and stout stature. With the short, stout stature, it is very difficult for a male dog to mount a female and naturally breed. In essence, their short stubby legs are not physically long enough to allow the male to complete the act. If your English bulldog is female, she can be bred more easily by another breed besides the bulldog. Other breeds that have longer legs and can mount the female easier will be able to breed her. The reason for this is that the male dogs cannot easily mount a female to breed because of their stature. This conformation makes it difficult for a male to successfully mount and breed a female. There are many ways to approach artificial insemination. Depending on the type of insemination, costs may vary greatly. Because most of these dogs must be artificially inseminated, this increases the cost to the puppies. A theriogenologist is a veterinarian that has gone through extra school and training for reproduction. To find one in your area try this website. Being bred by artificial insemination increases cost of care. However, when you have to use artificial methods, you need to first collect a sample from the male dog. Then you must inseminate the female at the appropriate time of her heat cycle. If the insemination is not done at the proper time or completed properly, then the time, money and resources used for that cycle may go wasted. Some dogs may or may not have a regular heat cycle as well. So knowing when to breed your bulldog can be difficult. Again, we recommend working with your veterinarian to help track heat cycles to determine optimal breeding time. Just getting your bulldog bred may or may not be the most difficult and expensive part of the equation. The large shape of their skulls combined with the confirmation of their pelvis make it difficult and sometimes downright impossible for a baby to fit through the birth canal. This leaves surgery by C-section as the only option for a mama bulldog to have babies. If you have a good relationship with your regular veterinarian, and you know the exact date that your female was bred, you may be able to schedule her ahead of time to have a C-section. However, if there are multiple possible breeding dates for your bulldog, scheduling the surgery too early may result in loss of the puppies. After being born, the puppies will ideally nurse from mom for the first weeks of their lives. If there are complications, this may also add to the cost of puppy care. Not to mention that while pregnant, you want to make sure the female bulldog is healthy, has testing done to determine how many puppies she has, and is up to date on all vaccines and prevention prior to even breeding her. Conclusion While English bulldog puppies may be cute, they are not without their health complications, starting with breeding and birth. Make sure you are financially ready to take on the potentially difficult task of having your female bred and helping her through the birthing process. Tweet Email The bulldog may be a symbol of strength and tenacity, but more than a century of selective breeding has weakened the once-tough canine. The dogs have breathing, skeletal, and skin problems, and, even worse, many can't naturally mate or give birth. If they develop breathing difficulties early, it's unlikely they will make it past the age of five. Now, the first complete analysis of bulldog genetics, published July 28 in Canine Genetics and Epidemiology , reveals that the breed has very low genetic diversity. That lack of genes poses a huge challenge for breeders hoping to naturally reintroduce healthier traits into the population, a practice called reverse breeding, says study leader Niels Pedersen , a veterinary researcher at the University of California, Davis. Read more about how dogs evolved in National Geographic magazine. According to the American Kennel Club , bulldogs—also called English bulldogs—are currently the fourth most popular breed in the U. More of the Same Researchers collected and analyzed DNA from bulldogs—including a control group of healthy pups that live in North America, Europe, and Argentina—and another group of dogs admitted to the UC Davis veterinary hospital for a variety of ailments. The results were striking. Unfortunately for the bulldog, many of the physical features that make them desirable also make them unhealthy. In a healthy, diverse population, each individual would be expected to have a largely dissimilar genomic structure, but in the case of the bulldogs, large regions of the genome were the same in every individual sampled. See your dog pictures submitted to National Geographic. Furthermore, the researchers found a worrying lack of diversity in the region of the genome that regulates the dogs' immune system. The scientists observed no differences between the healthy dogs and the ailing pets at the hospital. Part of the reason for the low genetic diversity is that modern bulldogs likely stem from a founder population of only 68 individuals. From this shallow gene pool, bulldogs lost even more diversity as they were selectively bred for short faces, squat bodies, and wrinkly skin. Loving Them to Death Unfortunately for the bulldog, many of the physical features that make them desirable also make them unhealthy. See " Dogs' Brains Reorganized by Breeding. Breeding for flat faces has resulted in an extreme form of brachycephaly —a shortening of the skull—that is now the leading cause of death for bulldogs. The condition leads to a variety of breathing troubles and overheating. The misshapen heads also affect reproduction, because bulldog puppies cannot fit through their mother's birth canal and must be delivered via cesarean. Pedersen estimates that 80 percent of bulldog births result from artificial insemination and cesarean. To Adam Boyko , a geneticist at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine , the new research shows a "classic dog-breeding story. Photographs from the midth century show bulldogs with longer faces, straight tails, and minimal wrinkling. Add in inbreeding and it can create a whole bunch of problems. But the public and breeders need to make a concerted effort to save the bulldog. Registries, like the American Kennel Club, could help by loosening their breed standards. Broader standards would allow for new traits introduced by bloodlines from closely related breeds. This post was updated on July 29th, .The original article stated the bulldog was the fourth most popular dog in the world; it is actually the fourth most popular dog in the U. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. By Last updated: Jun 01 As one of the most easily recognized dog breeds, the English Bulldog has many unique features that make this dog popular. These telltale features include a short and flat wrinkled face, an underbite, a low and wide stance, and a boxy, muscular body. Why English Bulldogs Have to be Artificially Inseminated A male English Bulldog typically cannot mount and enter a female mate due to his stocky, front-heavy body. The breed standards for the English Bulldog include short and strong back legs and a very broad chest, which makes it difficult for a male to have a successful pairing with a female. A female English Bulldog can breed easily and naturally with other breeds with longer legs. Unless, of course, you want to have a litter of mixed breed puppies to care for. Unsurprisingly, having a dog professionally artificially inseminated costs a good deal of money. Because it can cost several hundred dollars to have an English Bulldog artificially inseminated, owners of these dogs often pass the extra cost onto the people buying the puppies. The reason why C-sections are so expensive is that the procedure is a major surgery performed to remove puppies from the uterus. These flat-faced dogs often suffer from brachycephalic syndrome , which is an upper airway abnormality that often causes breathing problems and other issues, like an intolerance to exercise. As they grow, English Bulldogs are susceptible to developing joint disorders like elbow and hip dysplasia due to the incorrect development of the joints. As they grow older, these dogs with joint problems can develop canine arthritis , which can severely affect their mobility. All that extra skin can also put this breed at risk for skin infections due to the skin folding over and causing bacteria to build up. The price of these dogs alone can be problematic for many people. Most English Bulldog puppies are born via C-section , which brings a higher cost compared to other breeds. There may be artificial insemination charges to consider, depending on which breeder you use. English Bulldogs are adorable dogs that make wonderful family pets. Instead, be proactive and get in touch with your vet so you can provide your dog with the best treatment. While English Bulldogs face some unique health-related challenges and can be pricey to buy, they make amazing family pets! And, of course, they are notoriously very wrinkly. Considering all this — especially the large head — can Bulldogs give birth naturally? A distinct, unique dog, descended from the British fighting mastiffs and originally used to drive cattle to market, though more commonly used to compete in the gruesome sport of bullbaiting, did you know that the Bulldog is currently the fourth most popular breed in the US today? A real house dog, they fit in well with living in an apartment or small house. Yet they are still surprisingly muscular and thus quite heavy. As well, there is now very little diversity in the Bulldog breed. The breed only started from the tiny genetic pool of merely 68 individual dogs but has since dwindled to even less diversity. Because the Bulldog breed has so very little diversity, many countries today are beginning to place restrictions on the breeding of this dog. Many Bulldogs have very little quality of life due to issues with breathing. Can I Breed my Bulldog? Many people have concerns about breeding their Bulldog because some Bulldogs find it quite difficult to give birth naturally. Many Bulldogs also have Bulldog-specific health concerns, on top of this. So, are you allowed to breed Bulldogs? Yes, in most countries, it is completely legal to breed most variations of the Bulldog breed. There are a few restrictions, though. The Dutch Kennel Club has actually banned the breeding — or at least, the registration — of new Bulldog puppies in the country. The club has made this move after the Dutch government brought in many new laws that restrict the breeding of broad-skulled dogs like the Bulldog. If you want to breed Bulldogs ethically, there are some things you really must take into account. Do the Bulldogs you are considering breeding have any underlying health issues, for example? Because so many people find dogs with flat faces cute, the Bulldog has been bred for this trait, to the extreme. So one of the most common health issues with the flat-faced Bulldog is having a small windpipe. If one or both of the Bulldogs you are thinking about breeding have any such genetic abnormalities that warranted surgery, you absolutely cannot breed them. If you breed them, they pass on these diseases, perpetuating things that have been plaguing this breed for years. Did you know that there are various different sub-breeds of the Bulldog out there? You are fully permitted to breed any breed of Bulldog in most countries. When Should I Breed my Bulldog? So, if you decide to go ahead with breeding a Bulldog, there are still some issues with the timings that you have to think about, even if you own some of the more healthy Bulldogs around. The flat-faced Bulldog is considered to be a brachycephalic breed of dog. This means that they have some trouble breathing, and can find it difficult to cool down after physical exertion or during the summer months. Because they are so flat-faced, you really must breed your Bulldog during the cooler months of the year where you are. As with all dogs, you should also make sure that you do not breed your female Bulldog before she has her second heat. Either way, be sure to take your Bulldog to the vet at least a month before you intend to breed her. One very important but non-breed-specific thing that your vet will check for in your Bulldog pair is the brucellosis bacteria. This is a disease that is known to cause spontaneous abortion in all breeds. How Can I Inseminate my Bulldog? Did you know that Bulldogs can also find mating pretty difficult? This is mainly due to the short legs the Bulldog has been bred to have for so long. But if traditional insemination is not possible for whatever reason, why not ask your vet about artificial insemination? Artificial insemination is quite common for Bulldogs. But now, the main question. Can a Bulldog give birth naturally? Well, yes, many Bulldogs do manage to give birth naturally with complete success. If you suspect this is the case, your vet can offer a lot of help. In conclusion, it is absolutely impossible for most Bulldogs out there to give birth naturally. The puppies just have too large of ahead, and the adult Bulldogs themselves are typically physically incapable of mating normally, never mind giving birth in the usual way. But the collective health of the Bulldog breed is improving all the time. Now and then, you hear of more and more cases where a Bulldog has been able to give birth naturally with complete success. So, there is much hope for more and more Bulldogs to be able to give birth without requiring any human intervention in the future. By Michelle McDaid.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppy diet: newborn For a German Shepherd puppy to develop and grow properly, it is imperative that they first nurse on their mother's milk. The first milk they receive is a protein and antibody-rich type of milk known as colostrum. This gives the puppy's immune and central nervous systems a boost. They then progress on to regular breast milk. Puppies will nurse for at least 6 to 8 weeks, gradually being weaned on to solid food at about 4 weeks. If, for any reason, the puppy cannot suckle its mother, don't give them cow or goat milk. These milks are very poor quality in comparison to a puppy's mother's milk. If your German shepherd puppy has to be prematurely weaned, a veterinarian will be able to prescribe specific infant formula and establish the appropriate dosage for your puppy. For example, a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd should not be fed the same food. This is because hese breeds have different nutritional needs. Take a look here to find out more about the diet for a prematurely weaned puppy. German Shepherd puppy diet: 1 month old From 3 to 4 weeks old, when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd puppy, we should start by letting them taste new foods and flavors. At this stage, the German Shepherd puppy's diet plan requires them to eat a special wet food for puppies. At around 6 to 8 weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy should be given a little dry dog food with water, or unseasoned chicken stock between nursing sessions. From their eighth week onward, a German Shepherd should be weaned and start feeding on solid food with a special puppy feed. The best dog food for a German Shepherd puppy is breed specific, but this may not be available everywhere. In these cases, your veterinarian can create a proper food plan for your German Shepherd puppy. At this stage, milk must be removed from the puppy's diet as it could cause diarrhea. If by any chance your dog or puppy is suffering from a bad stomach, we recommend taking a look at our article on what to do if yourt dog has diarrhea. In addition, it is vital that puppies have constant access to clean fresh water. German Shepherd puppy diet: 2 months old At two months of age, you can start to slowly decrease the moistening of your German Shepherd's dry food. Eventually, the puppy will be used to eating the food completely dry. Following the German Shepherd puppy food chart, from 2 until 4 months old, a puppy will eat 4 or 5 times a day. This has to be carried out with one very important addition: discipline. A puppy needs to learn that it will not be fed constantly throughout the day, but at specific times. We start of by placing a bowl of food down for 10 minutes, this should give the puppy enough time to finish its meal. After 10 minutes, we suggest taking the bowl of food away, even if your puppy hasn't finished eating. A puppy's food bowl must only be available to the dog for 10 minutes. This 10 minutes should be enough time for the puppy to eat all of its provided food. As already mentioned, after 10 minutes, you should take the food bowl away, even if the puppy hasn't finished eating. This pattern will introduce the puppy's food schedule and allow it an opportunity to become accustomed to particular feeding times. Accepting and adapting to a diet plan is very important for a puppy's intellectual development. It also facilitates more complex and demanding training sessions. Food for German shepherd puppies should be higher in calories, fats, proteins and calcium than adult German Shepherd dog food. This is because puppies are still growing and developing and therefore need better nutrition. German Shepherd puppy diet: food plan after 4 months Between 4 and 6 months of age, the number of meals which we have detailed in our German Shepherd puppy food chart should be reduced to 3 a day. The food quantity should be increased and an extra margin of 2 minutes to eat should be provided. The packaging of quality commercial dog food will detail the appropriate suggested amount of food for the puppy, depending on its age and weight. If you have any doubts, consult your veterinarian. You should eventually start mixing fresh food, such as meat, fish or vegetables, with the commercial dry feed. Beware of forbidden foods for dogs. Some people ask about a raw diet for a German shepherd puppy, but we recommend these such foods should always be cooked and never given to a dog raw. Meanwhile, treats for dogs should only be used as positive reinforcement during their training and learning period, never as a food supplement. Under no circumstances should you give your German Shepherd, or any dog, human food leftovers. Human food contains salt, sugar and seasoning contents which are very harmful to a dog's health. In addition, if you do offer your dog your food, it will pester you during meals [1]. For more, take a look at some of the harmful effects of treating a dog like a human. German Shepherd puppy diet: after 6 months When your German Shepherd puppy reaches 6 months of age, its daily food intake should be reduced to twice a day. When we do this we can increase the food portions and eating time accordingly. Our German Shepherd diet chart below should be taken into account depending on the age, lifestyle and size of your German Shepherd puppy. After 6 months, you should give your German Shepherd puppy shatterproof bones, such as beef, to gnaw on. For more, take a look here for more about; Bones For Puppies. German shepherd puppy: Dog food and water bowl hygiene Your puppy's food and drink containers should always be clean. Hygiene is very important in order to prevent the appearance of insects. If you notice that your puppy has not eaten for three consecutive meals, consult your veterinarian immediately. This lack of appetite in a puppy could be caused by bowel obstruction and stomach pain; due to the ingestion of toxic food etc. Don't forget that puppies are very sensitive and fragile and if you ignoring any symptoms of disease, it can result in severe issues or even puppy fatality. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppies should be socialized and trained to live with you from day one. These dogs are incredibly capable and have the ability, if trained properly, to learn tricks and perform activities [2]. In addition to the diet of a German Shepherd, don't forget the importance of preventative medicines, following the appropriate vaccination schedules and general German Shepherd dog care. For more information about your German shepherd, take a look at.Growth and weight The German Shepherd puppy is a popular addition to many households. Sometimes called the Alsatian puppy, the German Shepherd was initially developed for herding and now commonly used as a working dog or pet. This is your guide to providing all the nutrients your new puppy needs. When Your Puppy Comes Home Although they look pretty sturdy at eight weeks old, German Shepherd puppies are vulnerable to tummy upsets when they arrive at a new home. To help them settle in stick with the food their breeder was giving them for the first two weeks minimum. You can then gradually swap over by increasing proportions over the course of a couple of days. However, if they are doing well on their original food, considering sticking with it for longer. To begin with follow the guidelines provided by the breeder, the feed manufacturer or by your veterinarian. This will vary depending on how calorie dense the food is and how it is formulated. Your puppy should be fed four times a day up to the age of four months. After this age, two larger meals at regular times will be sufficient. However, the more often you feed your pup the stronger your bond will grow. Simple sits and recalls, puppy tricks, they all make a big difference to how your dog behaves towards you and feels about you as they grow. What to Feed A German Shepherd Puppy You will find there are a lot of different opinions about what kind of food is best. Kibble and wet food are the most popular, but you do also have the option of raw or homemade meals. Puppy Kibble Great quality, high meat content kibble is my go-to for feeding larger puppy breeds. At the beginning of the day I measure out their daily food amount, then separate it into little pots. Some as meals, and the remainder to use throughout the day to reward good behavior or get off on the right foot with positive reinforcement. The FDA recently issued a notice alerting dog owners to a potential increased risk of a serious heart condition. This is called canine dilated cardiomyopathy DCM. The risk is in dogs eating foods that include peas, lentils, or potatoes instead of grains. The underlying cause of these cases is not clear, but the FDA note suggests that caution should be used in selecting foods with these ingredients for German Shepherds and other large dogs. Canned Dog Food For picky eaters canned food can be more appealing. It smells stronger, and debatably tastes nicer. These diets do not include cooked or otherwise processed foods. However, it may be more difficult to regulate a BARF diet to ensure a slow and steady growth rate in young puppies. If you find this option intriguing, you can check out our article on feeding your dog a raw diet. Homemade Diets Research has shown that in the past, poorly balanced homemade diets have been harmful to German Shepherd puppies. There is now abundant information available to anyone who is willing and able to produce a safe and balanced diet. However, modern cases studies have shown that well-meaning owners may still over-feed or create an unbalanced diet. So, this is an area where you really can have too much of a good thing. As with commercial foods, homemade diets must be properly formulated for a large breed dog. Do not deviate from recommended recipes as provided by a veterinarian. If possible, preferably a vet with a board certification in veterinary nutrition. Recipes published in popular magazine and websites may not be nutritionally complete or suitable for a large breed puppy. Is My Puppy the Right Weight? You can also refer to German Shepherd puppy growth charts to see if you puppy is gaining weight and within the normal range. However, keep in mind that some dogs will be unusually small or large but still be perfectly healthy. Do not try to maximize growth rates as this can lead to health problems later. Ensure that you are familiar with how to assess the body condition of your puppy. The ribs and spine should be easy to feel but not simple to see. My Puppy Is Still Hungry If your puppy seems excessively hungry provide more frequent but smaller meals. Young puppies cannot tolerate going without food for extended periods. With older puppies you may wish to experiment with foods that help them feel more full, and provide low calories treats. Keeping a health puppy active and occupied will help prevent them from becoming overly focused on anticipating their next meal. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

Bug, originally named Lady, earned the named Bug as a pup and it stuck. Bug and Rex are our oldest members and they are our pets first and foremost. We began breeding in so that we could bless others with the same loving affection and protection that Bug and Rex have shown us. We breed AKC registered and non-registered dogs. Our non-registered puppies are purebred and the parents are health-tested. We have seen many breeders only offer AKC registered dogs for enormous amounts of money. We are not like those breeders. We breed because we love the dog and we want to bless others. You'll find that we provide the same loving care and attention as others do for a fraction of the cost. We raise our dogs in our family home and they are our pets first and foremost. Our German Shepherd puppies are raised with puppy culture and taught basic manners before leaving our home. I tell people that they shed twice a year, for 6 months at a time. Our dogs are great with children and other animals however, I fully recommend socialization and training as soon as you take your puppy home. German Shepherds need a job, these are not a breed that you can ignore or they will get destructive, they need guidance and they will work hard to please you. Suggest a Great Read And why did I create this mini-reading list? Having to care for another living being is a serious challenge and bits of wisdom can be found in many places. But in this day and age, disinformation is just as popular and sometimes more appealing than good advice for raising a GSD the right way. Using HayesHaus. I consider these books good places to start for any dog owner, German Shepherd or otherwise. Buy on Amazon The Art of Raising a Puppy is a wonderful book, as is obvious in it being revised and released for a second edition. The monks lead owners through raising a puppy in what I would call an artful manner. Their methods are carefully crafted to produce results and have done so over the years this book has been in circulation. The Art of Raising a Puppy is a must read for any new dog owner and should be a staple in home that puppies find themselves a part of their families. When monks have to take extra time out and write a book to teach people to be patient with their animals you should take them seriously. However, do note that you are in all likelihood not a monk. It is filled with informational pictures of the history of this great breed. Max goes into infinite detail about the German Shepherd Dog and his intentions with the breed. He was well versed in anatomy, biology, the science of movement, and veterinary medicine. It is important to deal with grief in a healthy manner in order to give the still living beings in your life all you can. The Pet Loss Companion is a helping hand on the road to emotional recovery for those grieving a lost friend. Did I miss a great book about German Shepherds? Turning it over to you, which ones did I miss? Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon. My aim is to provide resources that make being a dog owner easier and recommending products is one way to do so. All German Shepherd Puppies from this litter are reserved via deposit. Interested in a future German Shepherd Puppy vom Zauberberg? Contact us today and start the process! One of the last Jago vom Zauberberg sons! Easy to handle. All he always wants is to be with people. His temperament is rock solid, like a working German Shepherd should be. His expression and appearance is liked by everybody that meets him. Friendly and interacting with everybody he meets. Conrad is an energetic puppy. Solid drives for the work with an exceptional desire to bite, with firm grip. To learn about the process, please call or email info zauberberg. Breeding German Shepherds the German way. His pedigree is from excellent and exclusive West German Bloodlines. His parents are very social, friendly, and have easily trainable qualities. As all of our German Shepherds, he is bred for the health and intelligence that the German Shepherd breed is well known for. He is fully vaccinated, dewormed, and micro chipped. Walt vom Zauberberg is a sable male German Shepherd puppy for sale in Arizona. His parents are of very social, friendly, and easily trainable qualities. Her parents are of very social-, friendly temperament, and easily trainable. His parents are of very social, friendly and easily trainable. As all of our… continue reading.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. In addition to being a great family pet, they help hunters, search and rescue teams, and can serve as an aide dog for the disabled. Luckily, this breed is one of the easiest to care for as their coat is so short, but you still need to put in a little effort. In fact, many owners of labs will only bathe their dogs a few times a year. The exception to this rule would be if your pooch gets really dirty and simply must be cleaned. Labrador owners quickly learn this breed enjoys rolling around in dirt, mud, and questionable messes. You will want to give them a bath following these escapades. Remember that bathing your pooch too often can dry their skin, laying a foundation for problems. This happens because Labradors have a special oil on their coat which works to prevent dry skin and protect them from dirt. Frequent washing will remove the oil leading to health problems. These dogs are notorious for shedding from their double coat that provides so much protection. As a bonus, brushing their fur more often will help spread their natural oils through their coat, lubricating their skin and providing them with a healthy looking shine. The exception to this is during the phase that occurs twice a year — during spring and autumn — when your lab is almost completely shedding their coat. The rest of the year, two or three times a week should be enough grooming for your Lab. The more you brush them, the less fur you will have to pick up from furniture and the more time you have to bond. During brushing, be sure to pay attention to signals they may give you and stop if they become uncomfortable. Do not dig deep in the canal and if there is a heavy buildup of dark matter you should consult a vet. This breed loves the water which due to their long hanging ears trapping water, can make them prone to ear troubles. In cases where the nails are left alone for too long, this can even lead to skeletal damage because of their odd gait while walking. If you have hard floors or they walk outside a lot, you can probably wait longer between trims than if your home is carpeted and your dog sticks to the grass when outside. Pay attention to signs such as a clicking sound as they walk on hard floors, or sharp ends that mean they need to be clipped. In other cases, a dog with poor dental hygiene may have severely damaged gum tissue, leading to losing tooth support and teeth eventually falling out. You may be able to get away with cleaning the teeth less often if they frequently chew on a bone or hard toy as this removes tartar and plaque as well. You can also invest in a few top dental chews for dogs , that help to remove plaque and tartar as they chew. Some can even helpw ith bad breath. In fact, if you try to use a normal brush, it quickly gets clogged with dead fur, making it very frustrating to use. You can find an undercoat rake that has spaced metal teeth and is very effective at removing dead fur, the most popular example of which is the furminator. Another option is a Zoomgroom from Kong, which is made of sturdy plastic and has prongs that are widely spaced. There are also special rakes that include a blade to make dead fur removal easier, but these are obviously controversial and need a great deal of care. You should also get one or two slicker brushes. As a bonus, this brush will separate water-resistant hairs and the massage given while using helps improve circulation in the skin. Dog ToothBrush and ToothPaste Shampoo As with all dog breeds, you never want to use human shampoo when bathing your lab. Doing so will dry their coat by removing natural oils, making your pooch uncomfortable in the long run. Instead, be sure to buy a good shampoo specifically for dogs. This also gives you the chance to find a shampoo that prevents fleas, ticks, dry skin, odor, shedding, or any other issue your pup experiences. Be sure to select a shampoo that is moisturizing, gentle, and alcohol-free. Do be cautioned that a Dremmel will take time to get your pet used to, and if mishandled can cause as much or more damage than standard nail trimmers. In terms of nail trimmers, there are two main styles: Scissor style trimmers are operated just like a standard pair of scissors, with you controlling the cutting motion completely. Many experts agree that the guillotine style trimmers are easier to use, while scissor-type ones are best for toenails that have gotten too long to the point where they curl inward already. You can also keep cornstarch or flour nearby as an alternative. In light-nailed dogs, the quick is pink and easy to see. After experience you will get a feel for where the quick is even in dark nailed dogs and be able to take off the right amount. Regularly making time to groom your Lab is one of the best things you can do for both your relationship and monitoring their overall health. Look out for more in-depth articles coming very soon on every aspect of grooming your Lab, with easy to follow step-by-step instructions. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Labrador Retriever Grooming Do Labs need to be groomed? Yes, you will need to keep on top of grooming with your labrador. Grooming your Labrador will ensure you are keeping your dog looking clean and fresh as well as discarding any loose hair. Labradors, on the whole, are a simple breed to groom at home. However, if you are wanting to give your pooch some professional pampering you should visit your local groomer for some well deserved TLC. How often should a Labrador be groomed? However, when it comes closer to moulting season, you will need to up your grooming to around 4 times a week to make sure the dead hair is removed. Can you trim a Labrador's hair? Avoid trimming your dog as, although it may feel like you are helping, you could be disadvantaging your pup without realising. Is a Labrador long or short-haired? Labradors, generally speaking, are a short-haired breed but on the rare occasion, you may come across a long-haired Labrador which is a recessive gene. How can I stop my Labrador from shedding? However, you can follow some steps to minimise your Labrador shedding. Keeping on top of grooming and brushing will make sure that you are removing any excess or dead hair before it falls out naturally. As well as grooming, you will need to take close care with the nutrition your dog is getting from its food. What type of Lab sheds the least? It is impossible to quantify whether one dog will shed significantly more or less than another. You may hear people say that yellow Labradors shed much less than the chocolate and black variation of the breed. Labrador grooming is easier than some other breeds, but they still need regular brushing and bathing to keep their coats clean and healthy. Regular grooming will also help to control Labrador shedding. Labradors need regular brushing, and may need brushing once a day during their heaviest shedding seasons. You will also have to trim their nails, brush their teeth, and clean their ears. What Grooming Does a Labrador Need? Labradors have thick, double layered coats made up of a soft, warm undercoat and a water resistant top layer. Labs are generally quite low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Especially when compared to their crosses, like the Labradoodle! But, their coats, teeth, paws and ears do still need regular attention. And, regular brushing and bathing can really help to control Labrador shedding. They should be brushed including checking paws, ears, and teeth a few times each week. But, in heavy shedding periods, you may want to up this to once or twice a day. Labrador Grooming Tools Knowing what grooming does a Labrador need is one thing, but being ready for that grooming is another thing completely! To look at some specific tools we recommend, take a look at some of the guides at the end of this article. We know what grooming an adult Labrador needs. But what grooming does a Labrador need during puppyhood? Puppies have a much softer coat than adult Labs. This way, your Lab will be used to brushing, nail trimming, and baths from a young age. So, make sure you have all the tools ready even from the time you bring your puppyhood. Labrador Bathing Most Labs stay smelling fresh with a monthly bath. But, you may need to bathe them more frequently if they roll in something smelly or spend lots of time getting mucky outside! Since the top layer of a Labrador coat is water-resistant, it can be a struggle to get shampoo all the way through. Make sure their coat is damp, then lather them up. Rinse thoroughly and repeat, working through their coat with your fingers. Use a dog-specific shampoo when bathing your Lab. Rinse your Lab thoroughly before drying them off. This will stop your dog from ingesting any shampoo when their lick their fur after the bath! Bathing can help you tackle shedding fur, but also to loosen any stubborn knots! Labrador Retrievers shed moderately all year round, and heavily twice a year in shedding periods. But, it can help you to control how much shed fur makes it onto your floors and furniture. Use your deshedding tool, and a slicker brush once or twice a day for best results. You may also want to bathe your Lab more frequently during these heavy shedding periods! Massaging shampoo through their coat can help to loosen some of those pesky shedding hairs. Some owners prefer to use clippers, but others prefer grinding tools. Either way, this is something to get your Lab used to from a young age. Or, you can book an appointment with your veterinarian or a dog groomer to show you in person. Labrador Ear Care Like all dog breeds, Labradors can suffer from ear infections. Gently lift their ears and examine inside. If it is excessively waxy, you may need to clean their ears, or take them to the vet for a check up. This is another process that you should ensure your Lab is comfortable with from puppyhood! Labrador Dental Health A final area to note when grooming your Lab is their teeth. Good dental health is important for all dogs, no matter what their breed. And, there are a couple of ways to go about maintaining it. You can choose a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Brush their teeth gently during brushing sessions. Or, finish off grooming sessions with a dental chew, perhaps one recommended by your vet. As you can see, Labs have quite large grooming requirements, despite their short coat. Owners must be ready to brush and bathe them regularly, especially during those heavy shedding periods. And grooming sessions involve more than just fur care! Readers Also Liked. Towels Treats or another reward Try to schedule a grooming session after your Labrador has had plenty of exercise to minimize the wiggles. How to Groom a Labrador in 8 Steps 1. Choose The Right Brush Since they were bred to retrieve waterfowl from cold Canadian waters, the Labrador sports a thick, water-resistant double coat. The dogs shed year-round but experience heavier shedding as they lose their fluffy undercoat. Two suitable options are a slicker brush or a de-shedding tool like the Furminator. Brush Times per Week More in Shedding Season To keep as much loose fur as possible out of your house, brush your Labrador thoroughly at least times per week. Without regular brushing, your Lab can develop mats and tangles during heavy shedding times. Labradors wear their nails down at different rates, depending on how active they are and the type of surfaces they run and walk on regularly. You can use nail trimmers or a nail grinder to accomplish the task. Clean the Ears Once a Week or As Needed Labradors can suffer from ear infections because the shape of their ears trap dirt and moisture inside. You can perform regular ear cleanings on your dog to reduce the chance of infection. Aim for about once a week unless your vet suggests doing it more often. Your vet or their staff can provide a quick tutorial on ear cleaning upon request. Use a pet-friendly ear cleaning solution, along with cotton balls or gauze. The bacteria can infiltrate the bloodstream and infect other parts of the body. Image Credit: DWhiteeye, Shutterstock 6. Use a clean cloth or separate corner of the washcloth for the other eye. Unless your Labrador has a skin condition that requires medicated baths, bathing too often is not recommended. Labrador coats contain a natural balance of oils that keep them healthy and water-resistant. Frequent baths can remove the oils, leading to dry skin and other complications. If you want to bathe your Lab, try not to do it more than once a month unless they get dirty or go swimming in a pool. Rinse your Labrador thoroughly after the bath and dry them with old towels. A great dry shampoo will make keeping your pet clean and happy a breeze. This no-rinse, pH-balanced formula is easy to use and has a soothing cucumber and aloe scent. At Pet Keen, we've admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool company! Reward Your Labrador! After all grooming tasks are completed, reward your Labrador for its cooperation. Labs love food, and treats are ideal rewards. Consider a quick play session or walk instead if your pup is watching their weight. The goal is to keep the entire experience positive for your dog. Signs to Watch Out for During Grooming Grooming your Labrador provides an opportunity to give them a thorough check-over at the same time. As you brush your dog, run your hands over them, feeling for any new lumps or masses. If you find any, note the size and location and have them checked out by your veterinarian. As you brush your dog, look for any sign of fleas and ticks. Also, check for dry, flaky, red, or irritated skin or hair loss.

Video: Bernedoodle Puppy Obedience Training Types Bernedoodles have been differentiated into three different types, depending upon their sizes: The Toy Bernedoodle: Those that weigh between 10 and 24 pounds, with height 10 — 14 inches. The Miniature Bernedoodle: Those with weight between 25 and 49 pounds, and height 15 — 20 inches. The Standard Bernedoodle: Those that weigh 50 pounds or more, and standing 21 inches and above. Temperament and Behavior Bernedoodles are responsive and loving. They love their family and are even good with the children. They are intelligent and social. This makes them fit to be a good family dog. However, they have a very relaxed temperament, with a moderate energy level. The dog would stay next to its owner while he is watching television, cooking, or strolling on the terrace, thus making them a great companion. Though, they are goofy and playful and are good at swimming, fetching and running, and would constantly amuse its family. Bernedoodles have a special fondness for cold weather. Care Exercise Bernedoodles need regular exercise. Because these dogs have a laid-back temperament, they do need regular exercise, but to a moderate amount, to burn down their calories for a sound health and mental fitness. Take them out for walks for 30 minutes to one hour daily. You can also utilize their fondness for running and playing by taking them out for jogging, and allowing them to play in an enclosed yard. Participate in games like throw and fetch, or allow them to swim. In short, keep them engaged in regular activities. Grooming The amount of shedding directly depends on the type of coat your dog has inherited. Those that have straighter type are prone to shed comparatively more. But they do not need frequent brushing to prevent matting. However, at times, you might want to enjoy the bonding time of brushing. You can clip your dog every months. If your dog is curly, it sheds very less or nominal. So brush it at least four to five times a week to prevent matting. Also, take them to professional grooming once in months. But begin grooming only after your puppy is done with its complete set of vaccinations by age 3 to 4 months. Its ears are hairy. So keep an eye for infections, redness or rashes. Health Problems As a very new breed, little is known about the health of the bernedoodle. No serious diseases or breed-specific issues have been reported. In fact, they are healthier than their parent breeds. But general dog health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, eye and skin problems including hot spots, allergies, etc. Training Considering their intelligence and interactive nature, your puppies would briskly pick up all that you teach them. However, if bernedoodles not trained properly, they can easily become neurotic and hyper. Teach them the difference between right and wrong. But train them in a gentle way. So the same diet routine is okay with your dog as well. However, if you are making your own recipe, you can choose rice both white and brown as a single protein source. They are picky eaters. For a change in taste, try variations adding yogurt, boiled sweet potato or pumpkin. These are a good option. Other sources for both flavor and health, serve your dog with cottage cheese, tofu, baby food, or boiled chicken or turkey, boiled liver, boiled hamburger. They can also make good watchdogs. Medium Bernedoodle Trainability Both the Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog are intelligent and eager to satisfy their human companions, so naturally, the Bernedoodle will be too. For those educating themselves, training can be a piece of cake. In simpler terms, these are happy, highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please and will usually adopt skills quickly. On the other hand, many say Bernedoodles can be stubborn. Does this change anything? The same psychological principles apply to all dogs. In the end, dog training is almost always more about the handler learning the correct ways to train dogs in his or her care. Bernedoodles are just as capable of learning perhaps more as any other dog. Socialise your Bernedoodle. Berners are widely known for their goofy, playful attitudes especially with children. However, unfortunate dogs that are never socialized are powerful enough to cause great bodily harm to those they deem as threats. Like many other giant breeds, Bernedoodles will usually be happy with moderate exercise. You could probably get away with two relatively quick walks daily. They do need mental stimulation though. These dogs are smart. Consider the original breed qualities. Of course every dog, just like every human, is different. Leadership Sure, the novice would-be dog owner might see one of these adorable, playful dogs. They might hear about all of these amazing qualities, like high intelligence, cuddly affection, or affinity for human family members. Does this mean they are great for first-time dog owners? Bernedoodles also need a handler who understands early canine socialization, preferably one who has done this multiple times with other dogs. Do Bernedoodles Need Haircuts? Do Bernedoodles Shed? Bernedoodles are still half Bernese and can shed quite a lot. There are few guarantees with mixed breed pups. Thanks to their Poodle genetics, Bernedoodles will only have a single undercoat that will shed depending on how much of those genetics came from the Poodle parent. In the end, all dogs will give off dander; there is no eliminating that completely. Compare the two breeds below. It has a bright natural sheen. Extremely curly or extremely dull-looking coats are undesirable. Your pet will probably shed, depending on how much Bernedoodle DNA was inherited, but not as much as the parent breed himself. Yes or No to Haircuts? This thick coat also affords protection from harmful UV rays and guards against insect bites. They can have one single undercoat. On the other hand, Bernedoodles will usually only have a single undercoat, thanks to their Poodle genetics. The coat type will often depend on the litter generation since breeders are able to better select for desired traits the further they go. The later the generation i. How Big Do Bernedoodles Get? Imagine mixing a medium-large breed lbs. The size of your puppies will fall between those limits, but the end result will probably depend on what percentage of either dog went into the mixture. The Standard Bernedoodle will usually weigh lbs kg with an average height of inches cm. This is nothing more than an average, and your Bernedoodle could end up weighing in at over a hundred pounds or less if you have a slender Poodle. Cost — Why are Bernedoodles so Expensive? Your first answer is very simple. People like rare and large dogs, and will pay more for them. Tri-color coats are in the highest demand. Continuous cross-breeding of existing crosses will increase likelihood of medical problems, so breeding is a slower process. Your price will increase with breeder reputation. In this case, smaller Bernedoodles tend to be more difficult often bred by using artificial insemination to breed and will cost more. The table here assumes your Bernedoodle is standard. They were bred solely for companionship, so they love attention and lots of cuddles from their families. Bernedoodles are just as happy curling up on the couch as they are hiking a trail alongside their humans. They're playful and active dogs who can be willful as puppies but are highly trainable thanks to their big brains. Appearance Though Bernese mountain dogs have a black, tan, and white uniform, poodles can have a much wider range of coat colors. Because of this, Bernedoodles can vary in color. While they're typically tricolor like their mountain dog mom or dad, they can also be pure black, black and white, or a random mix. Their fur can also be curly like their poodle parent or straighter like a Bernese mountain dog. As a general rule, the straighter the coat, the more your Bernedoodle will shed. In both cases, the thickness of a Bernedoodle mane makes this breed suitable for colder temperatures. A curly Bernedoodle coat is typically sought-after because it's considered hypoallergenic. While no dog is percent allergen-friendly, this breed's coat can be a good option for those who tend to sneeze, sniffle, or itch around dogs. Bernedoodle breeders typically offer a tiny, miniature, and standard size, which allows for flexibility with the care and living needs of each pup. A smaller mix could easily live in an apartment as long as she gets plenty of walks and exercise. The standard Bernedoodle can reach up to 29 inches in height and weigh up to 90 pounds. A mini is between 18—22 inches tall and weighs 20—45 pounds. A "tiny," bred from a toy poodle, is only 12—17 inches and weighs 10—24 pounds, according to the United Bernedoodle Registry. Temperament Affectionate and playful, Bernedoodles are a perfect family pet. They are especially fond of younger kids and provide a wonderful lifelong companion as children grow into adults. Though they're intelligent pups , they tend to be goofy and love attention from their humans. Though they can't get enough of their family, Bernedoodles might first be apprehensive, sensitive, and skittish around strangers. As with all breeds, it's important to socialize your Bernedoodle puppy so she'll be comfortable and affectionate around new people, too. She can be very charming and charismatic with positive reinforcement training. Personal space is not a part of their vocabulary, and they should not be left alone much. Loneliness can result in separation anxiety, which could cause nervous habits like whining or chewing. They will end feeling more fulfilled and have less anxious, OCD behaviors. And no matter the size, this hybrid is especially gentle-natured and loves children. They're so gentle, in fact, they don't make good guard dogs: They bark infrequently and are more likely to befriend an intruder than scare them away. Care Most often, a Bernedoodle will have a wavy or curly coat that's ideal for those with allergies. In some cases, a Bernedoodle can have a straighter coat similar to that of a Bernese mountain dog. This means they'll shed more and might not agree with an owner who's allergic to pet dander. Once the litter is a few weeks old, a Bernedoodle breeder will be able to tell what kind of coat each puppy will have in order to match the right dog to the right owner. But with that curly coat comes a greater need for grooming. Bernedoodles don't shed much , so they'll need frequent brushing to prevent painful matting. Most doodles love being brushed, and the routine allows the owner to bond with their dog. Keep in mind a very curly, "hypoallergenic" dog will need a haircut every few months. Just because they're low-shedding doesn't mean they're low maintenance! They'll need daily walkies to burn off their energy, but so long as their physical needs are met, they likely won't turn to undesirable behaviors like digging to keep themselves entertained. They'll also need consistent social stimulation to reinforce positive behaviors. The more exposure they have to new pets and humans, the more likely they are to be well-behaved when introduced to a foreign person or situation. A Bernedoodle's smarts makes her typically easy to train. It also means she can learn behaviors good or bad quickly—that's why it's important to keep up with training, even past her puppy days. Training a Bernedoodle requires positive reinforcement and, in some cases, a high level of patience. Should the puppy inherit the Bernese's willfullness or the poodle's high energy, they'll need more of your time and attention. Health The Bernedoodle lifespan is 12—18 years. Luckily, the hybrid breed does not inherit the same health risks as the Bernese mountain dog. The Bernese side of their lineage has a life expectancy of only seven years and a high rate of cancer , hip and elbow dysplasia , heart disease , and epilepsy. And while Bernedoodles are far healthier than a purebred Bernese, they can still be "predisposed to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, ocular diseases, and some allergies ," Christman says. Just be on the lookout for [warning signs like] excessive drooling and ability to gain some weight quickly. Hot spots are primarily caused by excessive licking or chewing of an area. This is why it's so important to keep up with grooming—a Bernedoodle is more likely to pick at their skin when her coat is dirty and matted. History Being a relatively new breed, the history book on Bernedoodles is a short one. After years of breeding Bernese mountain dogs, Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Bernedoodles wanted a way to make the purebreds more allergen-friendly and free from the health issues that plague the breed. Thus, the Bernedoodle or at least the first intentional pairing of a Bernese mountain dog and a poodle was born in .Now, dog owners everywhere have fallen in love with the loyal, loving breed that looks like a huggable teddy bear. She has more than 26, followers! Actress and filmmaker Greta Gerwig reportedly takes her mini Bernedoodle, Wizard, everywhere with her. Was this page helpful?

They date back to before rifles, where they were used alongside nets to catch their prey. Poodle Breed History: While commonly associated with the French, the Poodle actually originated as a duck hunter in Germany over years ago. Eventually, Poodles made their way from the lake to the life of luxury as they were the breed of choice by French nobles, and eventually royalty across all of Europe. To this day, the Poodle is still the national dog of France. The Toy Poodle started in the United States in the early 20th century to be a city-dwelling companion dog. As this is such a long-established crossbreed, there is now an effort to have the Cockapoo breed recognized in the eyes of the AKC and other organizations. In the late s the Cockapoo Club of America was founded to help create breeding standards to achieve this. On top of that, the gender of the puppy and the genetics of the parents play important factors as well. With that in mind, a Teacup Cockapoo will weigh less than 7 pounds and stand less than 10 inches tall. A Toy Cockapoo will typically weigh between pounds and have a height of inches. A Miniature Cockapoo will weigh in at around pounds and stand roughly inches tall. Standard Cockapoos will be even larger at pounds and inches in height. Their fur can range anywhere from flat, like the Cocker Spaniel to curly like the Poodle and usually is usually fairly long. A minimum of brushing once per week is required for Cockapoos, with the ideal frequency being every other day if not every day for more curly-haired dogs. Are Cockapoos Hypoallergenic? Do Cockapoos Shed? While this can be true, due to the unpredictability of genetics, there is no guarantee that any particular dog, or litter of dogs will be hypoallergenic. So an F1BB Cockapoo .However, due to the genetic diversity from crossing these two breeds, the result may be a lower chance of developing these inherited health concerns. Due to the cost of treating these common health concerns, we highly encourage all dog owners invest in pet insurance. We recommend getting a free online quote from Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. As such they are only suitable as indoor pets and do best in homes where someone in the family is home frequently. They are super sociable dogs and live to meet new people and animals. While friendly with children, they are very sensitive to rough play or abuse by them so be wary of that. One thing to look out for when picking out a Cockapoo dog is to stay away from litters or dogs that display nervousness, as that is not a natural trait of this breed and oftentimes demonstrates bad breeding techniques. Cockapoo Dog Breed Activity Requirements: The Cockapoo breed requires moderate exercise, with a minute walk each day sufficing. Keeping these dogs mentally stimulated is just as important via socializing with new people and dogs on a regular basis. Foley which mostly promotes multigenerational breeding by crossing one Cockapoo with the other, with the effort of making it a purebred. Besides this, other organizations formed for the purpose of developing this breed included American Cockapoo Club as well as the North American Cockapoo Registry. They have a clingy nature, loving to follow their masters wherever they go or even enjoy being petted on their laps, which increases their chances of separation anxiety when left alone for prolonged periods and could also resort to destructive means like barking excessively or chewing. The Cockapoo might be either reserved or shy towards strangers like its Poodle parent, or even display aggression and bark at the sight of an unknown face, similar to the Cocker Spaniel. However, the gentle and pleasing nature it takes after both its parents lessen its possibilities of being a guard dog. Though the Poodle Cocker Spaniel mix gets along well with kids, and older children who could deal with these dogs in a sensible and well-behaved manner. They also share a comfortable rapport with other canines and cats but might get after smaller animals and birds if they inherit the chasing instinct of their Cocker Spaniel parent who has a hunting lineage. Care Exercise They are moderate in terms of activity levels, but could be immensely active if the Miniature version of Poodle is one of its parents. It also possesses the increased energy levels of the Cocker Spaniel, hence needing adequate amount of exercise to keep it physically and mentally rejuvenated. Besides giving them two short walks for 10 or 15 minutes at a time on a daily basis, give them sufficient playtime in a fenced yard or even when they are indoors. When their need for activity is met well, they would do fine in an apartment. Grooming These low shedding dogs need less amount of grooming, though its requirements vary according to its coat. A slicker brush would be suited for combing the coat at top, which may be further combed using a steel comb for removing the mats and tangles. Of the several hairstyles, the teddy bear cut is one of the sought after hair-cuts for the Cockapoo where the hair around its facial region has a full and round look. Though claimed as an odorless breed, bathe it after two or three months or whenever it gets dirty. The hair around its eyes should be trimmed on a regular basis to ensure visibility lest it could hinder its eyesight. Clean its eyes and ears using a damp wash cloth, brush its teeth twice or thrice a week and also trim its nails one or two times in a month for better hygiene. Health Problem Some of the common health problems faced by the Cockapoo include patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy and infections of the ear. Training The Cocker Spaniel Poodle Mix is intelligent but could be stubborn, hence a firm hand is needed to train it in a better way. Socialization training should be imparted to the Cockapoo puppies so that they could be able to shed off their aggressive traits if they have any. Many owners of the Poodle and Cocker Spaniel mix often follow the Rule of Seven that means acquainting them with seven new sounds, new places, new sights, and new people. In this way they would be able to understand and differentiate the good from the bad, which in turn may help in shedding off their aggressiveness, also helping them to develop a pleasant and friendly demeanor. Housetrain them as early as possible so that you can lessen their chances of separation anxiety. Place them in a crate by putting all their belongings and favorite things within. Do not go for highly spacious crates as it may stress the dog unnecessarily. The appropriate crate size for the Cockapoo is 36 x 23 x 25 length x width x height. Feeding Feed a Cockapoo with a good quality dry dog food, though the amount would differ in accordance with their size. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Often breeders recognize the popularity of these unique bi- and tri-color patterns and will charge a higher price for them. What is the lifespan of a Springerdoodle? The average lifespan of a Springerdoodle is years. How much exercise does a Springerdoodle need? Springerdoodles are a very active breed and will need minutes of daily exercise to live a happy, healthy life. This figure can range slightly depending on the size, age, and personality of your dog. This breed is not recommended for those who live a sedentary lifestyle. Keep in mind that a standard Springerdoodle will typically need more exercise than a mini Springerdoodle based on size alone. To avoid damaging their developing bones and joints, be careful not to over-exercise your puppy. As a rule of thumb, a Springerdoodle puppy should get about 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, times per day. Once they are fully grown at months, your Sproodle is ready for their full minutes of exercise. Are Sproodles good apartment dogs? Sproodles are not an ideal breed for those who live in an apartment or small house. This breed will be much happier with more space, particularly if you have a large, fenced backyard… and maybe even a doggie door! Mini Springerdoodles need slightly less exercise and are more likely to fit within the weight limits that many apartment buildings have. Is the Sproodle a healthy breed? Springerdoodles are generally considered to be a healthy breed. While mixed breeds tend to be healthier overall than purebred dogs, they are still susceptible to health issues from both parent breeds. Some common illnesses seen in the English Springer Spaniel Poodle mix include elbow dysplasia, otitis externa, progressive retinal atrophy, and epilepsy to name a few. One way to protect your Springerdoodle from accidents and illnesses is to enroll them in a quality pet insurance plan as early in their life as possible. I personally have my dog covered with Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. Are Springerdoodles easy to train? The cross between two very intelligent breeds, Sproodles tend to be smart and easy to train. Springer Spaniels can be seen competing in hunting, agility, and obedience tests. Poodles are often selected to be highly-trained service animals. Are Springerdoodles good with kids? Springerdoodles, in general, tend to be good with kids of all ages. English Springer Spaniels have an average tolerance of kids while Poodles are excellent with them. Crossing these two breeds results in a dog that will likely have a good relationship with the children in your family! Photo courtesy of Pat Patterson. Are Springerdoodles good with other pets? Springerdoodles tend to get along with other dogs fine but may not do well in families that have a cat. While the personality of every dog is different, the natural prey drive of the Springer Spaniel breed can be tough to overcome. Are Sproodles aggressive? Overall, Sproodles are not an aggressive breed. However, this is extremely rare overall. Do Springerdoodles bark a lot? Springerdoodles are average barkers and are not overly quiet or overly vocal. Do Sproodles make good watch dogs? Sproodles tend to make average watch dogs. Photo courtesy of Ruth Prideaux. Where can I find a Springer Spaniel Poodle mix? Finding a Springer Spaniel Poodle mix can be a challenge seeing as how rare this breed is. To learn how to identify a good breeder while avoiding puppy mills and backyard breeders, check out our article here! Pet stores are best to avoid. Not only will you pay a much higher price, but many people question the ethical standards of the breeders they source their puppies from. Finally, you can choose to rescue a Springer Spaniel Poodle mix from a shelter! How much do Springerdoodles cost? Mini Springerdoodles and puppies with more sophisticated color patterns will usually fall on the higher end of this range. More from Popular Doodle.Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Cockapoos have an infectious zest for life that spreads to everyone around them, that essential joie de vivre that makes every day a celebration. These guys are just plain happy to be alive. The true Cockapoo been bred with the goal of a healthy, hypoallergenic dog with a good temperament. When the cross works as intended, you get the intelligence and spirit of the Poodle with the sturdiness and field spirit of the Cocker. Efforts have been made over the last decade to clearly separate Cockapoos and Spoodles into two different hybrids, and some success has been achieved. If the type of Cocker involved is important to you, be sure to ask. Cockapoo Highlights 1. Friendly and Affectionate: Cockapoos are known for their friendly and loving nature, making them excellent companions. Hypoallergenic Coat: Many Cockapoos have hypoallergenic or low-shedding coats, which can be a great choice for allergy sufferers. Intelligent and Trainable: They are intelligent dogs and are usually easy to train, responding well to positive reinforcement methods. Adaptable: Cockapoos can adapt to various living environments, including apartments, as long as they receive enough exercise and attention. Good with Families: They are generally good with children and other pets, making them great family dogs. Long Lifespan: Cockapoos often have a longer lifespan compared to some other breeds, living 12 to 15 years or more with proper care. Moderate Exercise Needs: While they enjoy playtime and walks, they are not overly hyperactive, making them suitable for families with varying activity levels. Unique Coat Variety: Their coat can vary from curly to wavy and comes in a range of colors and patterns, adding to their charm. Grooming Requirements: Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coat in good condition and prevent matting. Health Considerations: Like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues, so regular veterinary care is essential to maintain their well-being. Cockapoo History When it comes to designer dogs, the Cockapoo is an old hybrid, popular since the s. The first breeding may have been accidental, but the happy result was a litter of puppies who were intelligent, almost odorless, had the low-shedding Poodle coat, and showed the easygoing and loving nature of the Cocker Spaniel. These puppies were well received, and the Cockapoo line began. Some efforts are being made today to establish breed standards and start the Cockapoo on the hard road of becoming a true breed, one producing offspring with consistent traits. Once the Cockapoo became more well-known, he only grew in popularity. The Cockapoo Club of America formed in and, in an effort to create breeding consistency, it created a breed standard. This group formed in and provides certification for Cockapoos who are the results of first- through sixth-generation breedings. The Toy Cockapoo can reach 10 inches in height but has a sturdier build, the bigger ones tipping the scales at just under 12 pounds. The Miniature Cockapoo weighs 13 to 18 pounds and ranges between 11 and 14 inches high. The Standard or Maxi Cockapoo should weigh more than 19 pounds and be at least 15 inches in height. Cockapoo Personality Intelligent and easy to please, the Cockapoo was established as a companion dog. He has an outgoing nature and usually gets along with everyone. Depending on his temperament, he can be active or he can simply enjoy snuggling up on the couch with you. He has the intelligence of his Poodle forebears but also the sweet disposition of his Cocker Spaniel ancestry. Socialization helps ensure that your Cockapoo puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. He prefers, always, to be with his family and can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for too long. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train a Cockapoo; he can achieve high levels of obedience with time and patience. However, there is a general misconception that hybrid vigor automatically applies to mixed breeds. Cataracts : Cataracts cause opacity on the lens of the eye, resulting in poor vision. Cataracts usually occur in old age and sometimes can be surgically removed to improve vision. Patellar Luxation: Also known as slipped stifles, this is a common problem in small dogs. The patella is the kneecap. Luxation means dislocation of an anatomical part as a bone at a joint. Patellar luxation is when the knee joint often of a hind leg slides in and out of place, causing pain. This can be crippling, although many dogs lead relatively normal lives with this condition. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Allergies : Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Cockapoo is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Liver Disease : This condition is becoming more prevalent in Cocker Spaniels in two forms: chronic active hepatitis and copper toxicosis poisoning. Both conditions may or may not be genetic; at this point no one is certain. Ear Infections : These afflictions may plague the Cockapoo because of his floppy Cocker ears, which can trap moisture, dirt, and debris. Ask your veterinarian about appropriate ear care products. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Health clearances are not issued to dogs younger than 2 years of age. They enjoy a good walk — and need it to keep them from becoming overweight. The best type of exercise, though, is a good play session in the backyard. Expect him to need at least 15 minutes of exercise every day. The Cockapoo is an adaptable breed. He can live in an apartment, though the smaller varieties seem to do better there than do the Maxi or Standard Cockapoos. They thrive when with their family and can suffer from separation anxiety when left for long periods of time — and that can lead to excessive barking and to destructive behavior. A crate is also a place where he can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will also help your Cockapoo accept confinement if he ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Cockapoo in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Cockapoo, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Cockapoos can be found in all the colors and color combinations that are seen in both Cocker Spaniels and Poodles — a more rich variety of coat colors than is usual in many other breeds. The Cockapoo is usually seen au naturel, but many people like to clip the coat. However, it should only be trimmed to two to three inches in length. The coat should be brushed daily. To retain coat oils and health, he only need be bathed when absolutely necessary. Because his floppy Cocker ears block air circulation, the ears must be checked and cleaned weekly to prevent ear infections. Gently wipe out the ear — only the part you can see! Your Cockapoo may have an ear infection if the inside of the ear smells bad, looks red or seems tender, or he frequently shakes his head or scratches at his ear. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding — and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Cockapoo Children And Other Pets The Cockapoo does well with youngsters , although he generally prefers homes with older, more considerate children. He also gets along with other dogs and pets. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Cockapoo Rescue Groups Cockapoos are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. Cockapoo Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. This small to medium sized dog is very active, who loves to be outside. However, they are also friendly and caring, liking just as much to curl up on your lap and to watch TV with you! These dogs can be used as working dogs such as guide dogs, although they were originally intended to be companions, especially for those with allergies who needed a dog with a low-shedding coat. Breeders must follow the rules when producing puppies to make sure they stay in line with the breed standard. To get a better understanding of where these dogs came from, we can take a look at the origins of their parent breeds. The Poodle originated from the French and German border in the 15th and 16th century and was associated with the upper class. Because they are excellent water dogs, they were used to hunt water-fowl. Later on, because of their adorable look, these pups became a very popular dog. The Toy Poodle was bred from the Standard Poodle by choosing the smallest pup from each litter and breeding with them. They were first seen in America in the 20th century. Cocker Spaniels first came to the US on the Mayflower in the 17th century. They were registered in and the popularity of the Cocker Spaniel grew significantly during the s and s. The American Cocker Spaniel has a smaller prey-drive than the English Cocker Spaniel, which makes them better family pets. Characteristics Of The Cockapoo Although there is a breed standard for the Cockapoo, you still cannot be sure what traits you are going to get in a litter of Cockapoo puppies. These dogs can come in a range of colors and patterns and it all depends on which parent they take after more. A Cockapoo puppy is normally born in litter sizes of four to eight pups. Because the Toy Poodle is the smallest size of all dog breeds, if you are crossing a Cocker Spaniel with one then the Toy will always be the father to prevent any complications. However, if the Poodle is a Miniature size, it does not matter whether they or the Cocker Spaniel are the mother because they are similar in size. Cockapoos are popular dogs and this means that they can have a hefty price tag. Always ensure that you are buying from a reputable breeder. Appearance The Cockapoo has a distinct look due to their adorable teddy-bear appearance! These dogs are classed as small-medium sized dogs, although their size will largely depend on whether they are bred from a Toy or Miniature Poodle. The Cockapoo is a well proportioned dog that is athletic and sturdy. Their heads are round and their eyes should be brown with a black nose. If they have a brown nose then their eyes should be black and if they have a lighter nose then they will have green or hazel eyes. Their ears hang down, too, giving them a super cute look! Coat There are three different coat types that the Cockapoo could inherit. Again, this depends on which parent they take after more. They can have a tight curly coat, a medium curl or a flat coat. All of the coats will be quite thick but they will almost always be a single coat. One of the reasons the Cockapoo was bred was to inherit the low-shedding coat from the Poodle parent. While the coat is not hypoallergenic, these dogs do not shed as much as many other breeds and may be the perfect dog for those with allergies. Color There are a range of different colors that the Cockapoo can come in and they can either be solid, part, phantom or tri-color. The colors include red, black, merle, tan, sable, brown, chocolate, and apricot. Temperament The Cockapoo is a very energetic pup that loves to be outside exercising. Because of their hunting heritage from their parent breeds, the Cockapoo can still retain this trait so you will need to be careful when out and about. Proper training and socialization can fix this, and it can also help with unwanted or aggressive behaviors that the Cockapoo is sometimes known to develop if not socialized properly at a young age. Friendly and loving, the Cockapoo will happily also spend time curled up next to you on the couch. They love attention and people and can be known to be very social dogs with children, pets and even other strangers. The Cockapoo is an observant dog and will bark to warn you if something is out of place. Occasionally, the Cockapoo can be prone to rage syndrome and, although rare, it is associated with Cocker Spaniels and they can sometimes pass it on to their young. Again, adequate socialization from a young age can help with this. Lifespan The Cockapoo has a long life expectancy. These dogs are expected to live to anywhere between 14 and 18 years old. Known Health Issues Due to the fact that these dogs are a mixed breed, they have fewer health concerns than many pups. However, unfortunately, they can still be prone to some health problems that their parent breeds are prone to. This is an eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. Patellar Luxation is another condition the Cockapoo may inherit from their Poodle parent. This is a common condition in smaller dogs and is caused when the patella is not properly aligned. This can cause lameness in the leg or an abnormal gait, sort of like a skip or a hop. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any severe issues to offspring. Daily Life Now we know all about the Cockapoo temperament and traits, we can take a look at what daily life with one of these pups is like. We will cover their food and diet, their exercise needs and their grooming needs. Food And Diet A Cockapoo needs roughly calories of food a day, which equates to around two cups of kibble. Of course, you should always double check the back of the food packet to see the exact amount you should be feeding your dog based on their weight. The food you feed your Cockapoo should be high-quality and nutritious. You should try to split their food into at least two meals a day. As a puppy, their food should be split into three meals a day. Unfortunately, this Poodle Mix can be a fussy eater so it may take you a while to find a food they like. Take a look below at the food we recommend for this breed. At the tiny end of the scale, the teacup Cockapoo will weigh less than 6 pounds. The toy Poodle Cocker Spaniel hybrid will weigh less than 12 pounds at adulthood, and a mini Cockapoo will weigh in at anywhere from 13 to 18 pounds. A full grown miniature Cockapoo is the medium size and the one you are most likely to see at the dog park. At the other end of the scale, a maxi Poodle and Cocker Spaniel mix, with a standard Poodle parent, will weigh 19 pounds or greater. The vast majority of Cockapoos weigh a more moderate lbs Appearance Cocker Spaniel Poodle mixes tend to have a broader head the average Poodle. Their fur varies between loose and very tight curls. Both Cocker Spaniels and Poodles come in a wide range of colors so there is plenty of choice for the would be cockerpoo owner. Are Cockapoos Hypoallergenic? He began crossing breeds in an effort to produce a hypoallergenic guide dog, for a blind woman whose husband was highly allergic to dogs. So, he crossed a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle. This is because allergies are caused by pet dander. And all pets, regardless of breed, produce some dander. Certain dog breeds shed that dander less readily, however. This particularly applies to dogs with very curly coats. And this may be beneficial to owners with allergies to dander. Dogs that shed less fall into this category partly because loose hair remains trapped in the curls rather than floating around your home. Do They Shed? All dogs shed to some degree. A Poodle and Cocker Spaniel hybrid dog can have either coat type, or something in between. And unfortunately, you cannot predict which coat they will inherit. So they may be less likely to trigger allergies. But they might not. Remember that the tighter the curl, the less the dog is likely to shed, and if you have allergies, do spend some time with Cockapoos to see how they affect you, before you bring one into your home. Cockapoo Temperament The typical Cockapoo personality can be hard to predict. It is important to make sure that both parents are friendly, when you buy a Cocker Spaniel Poodle mix. And Cocker Spaniels are loving and very loyal. Both breeds are clever and active. Cockapoo Barking Any dog has the capacity to bark. And may bark more if they discover barking is in some way rewarding. But some individuals of this particular breed maybe a little more prone to barking than average. And to make use of resources like this one if you need to train your pup not to bark. Training and Exercising The good news here is that these dogs are as a whole are people-centric and eager to please. Your Poodle Cocker Spaniel mix will likely want to be where you are, doing whatever you are doing. These dogs are social and people-oriented. So, the closer your bond is, the easier Cockapoo training will become. Throughout training, positive reinforcement will be your key to success. Poodle and Cocker Spaniel mix dogs are particularly sensitive to punishment, so avoid this at all costs. They need daily exercise, and regular training to stimulate their minds, too. The important thing is to keep your Poodle Spaniel mix busy. Remember that young puppies have much lower exercise needs than adult dogs. A good rule of thumb is 5 minutes of structured exercise, such as walks, per month of their age, per day. Heart Valve Disease Cocker Spaniels are liable to develop leaky heart valves as they grown older. In the early stages medications will help extend life. But in the later stages the dog develops heart failure, a leading cause of Cocker Spaniel death. Sadly operations to repair heart valves are not yet commonly performed on dogs. A blood clotting disorder that causes excessive bleeding. Epilepsy Cocker spaniels are prone to epilepsy and seizures. These can often be treated with medication. Both Poodles and Cockers are prone to this disease, which causes blindness. Hip Dysplasia Cocker spaniels and standard poodles are prone to hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia causes pain. It affects the movement and function of the hip joint. Some cases are improved by surgery. Patella Luxation Toy and Miniature Poodles are among a number of smaller breeds that can suffer from Patella Luxation. It may require surgery. Exactly how likely each problem is, depends on a number of unpredictable factors. A Cocker Spaniel Poodle Mix is a small to medium sized dog breed that has long curly or wavy fur that is very soft. The coat comes in many colours including gold, brown, black, white and grey. Cockapoos have a sturdy, square, compact build. If you measure their height from the ground to their shoulder, you will realise that it is a similar length from their chest bone to rump. They inherit their compact build from the Cocker Spaniel and the wavy coat from the Poodle. The average Cocker Spaniel Poodle Mix gets to about 15 pounds 6. It must be noted that there is a lot of size variation in Cockapoos that is dependant on the size of their parents. For example, a Cocker Spaniel mixed with a Toy Poodle is going to be significantly smaller than one crossed with a Standard Poodle. On average, a Cockapoo will reach their full adult height between 9 months and 1 year old. This can also vary depending on the kind of Poodle is the parent of your Cockapoo. The smaller the Poodle the Cocker Spaniel is crossed with, the smaller the Cockapoo. A Toy Cockapoo weighs less than 12 pounds 5. In comparison to a Teacup Cockapoo, Toy Cockapoos are sturdier. A Mini Cockapoo weighs between 13 and 20 pounds 5. A Standard Cockapoo weighs 21 pounds 9. A F1 Cockapoo is the first generation. One parents is a Cocker Spaniel and the other is a Poodle. What is a F1b Cockapoo? A F1b Cockapoo is a backcross generation. This means that one parent is a Cockapoo and the other is a purebred Poodle. They have crossed the Cockapoo back to the Poodle again with the intention of breeding a dog that is even more hypoallergenic and has a curlier coat. An F2 Cockapoo is a second generation dog. It is the result of breeding two F1 Cockapoos together. What is a F2b Cockapoo? A F2 Cockapoo is a cross back generation where a F1 Cockapoo is bred with a F1b Cockapoo resulting in a dog that is .Alternatively, some breeders breed two F1b Cockapoos together to create a F2b Cockapoos. This type of F2b Cockapoo has the curliest coat.

That is one of many reasons why choosing a reputable breeder is vital. Although genes work in mysterious ways, taller lineage will often equate to taller dogs and vice versa with smaller lineage. I already talked about gender earlier. But as a reminder, choose a female if you want to increase your chances of having one of the smallest Toy Poodles in a litter. Doing so is harmful and abusive. Instead, ensure you are giving your Poodle high-quality puppy food designed for its age. Most Toy Poodles will reach sexual maturity between six and nine months old. That is a bigger issue than many people realize, given that some veterinarians want to wait to spay or neuter a dog until their growth plates close. The reasoning is that it prevents the possibility of improper bone development , as an increase in hormones from the procedure can force the growth plates to calcify prematurely. Toy Poodle sits calmly at the garden. So, you might need to get on the waitlist of your local animal shelter or a Poodle rescue center. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Most dogs, Toy Poodle or otherwise, stop growing around 24 months. Small dogs, in particular, may stop growing completely before they reach a year old. While you have minimal control over the first two, you can provide quality nutrition for your pup to encourage its optimal growth. Poor nutrition deprives your puppy of the essential nutrients it needs, which can delay growth, or in severe cases, inhibit growth permanently. Always speak to your vet about the best puppy for your Toy Poodle to set it up for future success. Adult maintenance food is not appropriate for a puppy, which needs higher protein, fat, and essential nutrients. For the first six to 12 weeks, puppies may need to eat small portions three or four times a day to meet their nutritional needs. Image Credit: Lucas Seijo, Shutterstock Once your puppy reaches three to six months, the feedings can be decreased to two or three a day. If your pup is still pudgy, stick to smaller portions. At six to 12 months, you can feed your puppy twice daily. If you neuter or spay at this stage, your puppy may need adult maintenance food. Small breeds can typically have adult food around seven to nine months. After one year, dogs are considered mature adults and can be fed two servings of adult maintenance food each day. Weighing a puppy is easy to do on your own—simply stand on a scale holding your puppy, then weigh yourself alone and subtract the weight. Toy breeds may be too small for a bathroom scale, but you can use a kitchen scale with a bowl to get more precise weights. Growth is straightforward to measure with a tape measure or seamstress tape, though it may not be easy with a squirmy puppy! If you want to track these numbers, take advantage of the distraction while your puppy is eating to get approximate measurements. Though Toy Poodles are basically guaranteed to stay tiny, some individuals may be a little closer to the Miniature Poodle end of the spectrum. Feb 18, Feb 18, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Now you may be wondering how big do toy poodles get when full grown? A toy poodle may be a maximum of 10 inches in height at the shoulder to be considered a toy poodle and not a miniature poodle. Whether they stand at 10, 15, or 20 inches in height, the poodle is an intelligent dog that needs time everyday to exercise and stretch its legs. Toy poodles were bred to be the clever companions of city dwellers with condos in the s. Although they look demure, they have the heart of a hunting dog that is always raring to go. However, the toy poodle is not the ideal dog for everyone, as they can be fairly demanding in terms of how much time and money you need to spend on their needs every day. Read on to find out if your home is the right one for a toy poodle to take over! Poodles were originally bred in France starting in the s. Early standard poodles in the s and s would accompany hunters on their hunts for waterfowl and retrieve the birds from the icy cold bodies of water. The standard poodle was highly intelligent, athletic, and well-loved. A smaller version was sought after by truffle hunters and circus owners. As a result, the miniature poodle was developed for its agility and slightly smaller size. By the s, the even-smaller toy poodle we know today was developed. According to the breed standard, an adult poodle is considered a toy if it is a maximum of 10 inches in height at the shoulder. Miniature poodles stand at a maximum of 15 inches in height, and the standard poodle stands anywhere over 15 inches in height. The height restrictions are enforced strictly, especially if the dog is being entered into competitions. Whether they are standard, miniature, or toy, the poodle is well-loved and ranks as the seventh most popular dog breed by the American Kennel Club. Toy Poodles At Birth At birth, toy poodles are miniscule and typically weigh in at under a pound! Toy poodle puppies are very fragile during this time. Toy Poodles At 3 Months At three months old, most toy poodles will have grown to a little over two pounds and will be tottering around on the tiniest of paws. They will begin putting on weight more quickly following this growth stage. Toy Poodles At 6 Months At six months old, most toy poodles will have gained a fair amount of weight and will be nearing the height they will end up being as an adult. By this time, they will be very active and giving you a good run for your money! Toy Poodles At 9 Months At nine months old, your toy poodle will likely be nearly fully grown. Some toy poodles may bulk up slightly and put on an additional half of a pound or so by the month mark. While the toy poodle is an adorable fluff ball, it is not the ideal dog for everyone or for every home. It takes a special kind of person to care for a toy poodle so the dog can live a full, healthy, and happy life. Here are the big questions to think about if you are considering a toy poodle based on their size and breed. Toy poodles are insanely intelligent. They require as much mental stimulation as a standard poodle twice or three times their size. This means they need to be trained properly to follow a variety of commands as well as receive daily mental stimulation. Mental stimulation is key to preventing your toy poodle from becoming bored and destroying anything in its reach or from becoming sad and moody. You can mentally stimulate your toy poodle by giving it puzzles , lick mats , and snuffle blankets. Even though toy poodles are tiny compared to standard poodles, they need the same amount of exercise time. One to two hours of daily physical exercise will help keep your toy poodle active, healthy, and sufficiently worn out. A toy poodle that is brimming with energy from being cooped up in an apartment or condo all day will suffer from anxiety issues, behavioral problems, and start to take their frustration out on their surroundings by chewing on your valuables and yapping the day away. Daily hikes, walks, obstacle courses, or runs around town will keep your poodle happy and healthy. Toy poodles are a fraction of the size of standard poodles. However, they require the same amount of grooming. Poodles do not shed their hair as frequently as many other dog breeds, which has led many people to incorrectly calling them hypoallergenic. No dog is truly hypoallergenic, as all dogs shed their hair and dead skin cells. Still, poodles are as close as you could come to having a hypoallergenic dog. That being said, they need to have their coats brushed once a day—not to remove loose hair, but to prevent knots from forming in their thick curly coats. Every six to eight months, your toy poodle will also need to go for a haircut to prevent their coat from getting too long and matting. Finally, poodles are excellent swimmers, and the toy poodle is no different. However, if their coat gets wet, they need to be dried and brushed immediately to prevent their coat from cording. Toy poodles are not large enough dogs to withstand the attention of small children. Toy poodles fare best in homes with no children or older children who are responsible enough to handle such a small dog with care. Yes, the size of your poodle will actually affect its lifespan. The smaller your poodle is such as the toy , the longer their lifespan will be. Standard poodles live for 10 to 12 years on average, miniature poodles live for 12 to 15 years on average, and the toy poodle lives for 15 to 18 years on average. Is there a difference between the size of male and female toy poodles? Male toy poodles are slightly larger than female toy poodles as is common in almost all dog breeds. However, because the breed is so small, the difference comes down to just a few pounds. Males typically weigh 7 to 10 pounds, whereas female toy poodles weigh 6 to 9 pounds. Is there a difference between toy and teacup poodles? Toy poodles are a recognized breed by the American Kennel Club separate from the standard and miniature poodles, whereas the teacup poodle is not. A teacup poodle is considered to be just a very small toy poodle. Can you get toy varieties of poodle crossbreeds? If a breed is successfully crossed with a standard poodle, it can be crossed with a toy poodle to get a smaller variety. Obviously, logistics and safety must play a role as a giant breed, such as the Great Dane, will produce a puppy that would be too large for a toy poodle to carry or safely give birth to. There are many varieties of poodle crosses that can produce adorable toy versions such as the corgipoo , the Aussiedoodle , goldendoodle , and the Whoodle. A toy poodle can be a maximum of 10 inches at the shoulder to be considered a toy poodle and not a miniature poodle. Toy poodles are every bit as intelligent, agile, and needy as their larger counterparts. 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. Check out the adorable Poodle puppies that are currently available here! PuppySpot is dog advertising website based in the US that connects breeders with prospective pet parents. They screen and vet every breeder on an annual basis to make sure their puppies are of top quality as they have a zero tolerance policy for puppy mills and substandard breeding practices of any kind. They also offer various trusted, USDA-certified transportation options to deliver your puppy to your home safely. You can check out their current Poodle litters here. Embark Vet offers a health test which will give you a predicted adult weight for your puppy. They are unable to look after themselves and are fully dependant on their mothers as the only senses they have are taste and touch. Toy Poodles spend majority of these 2 weeks sleeping and nestling as close to their mother as they can. Their muscles are not developed and they cannot walk. At the beginning of this period they will get their hearing and sense of smell. Their eyes and ears open so they become much more inquisitive about the world. They start to interact with litter mates, bark and walk a little as their muscles start to get stronger. Toy Poodles start to become more aware of their surroundings and start to interact with others. By 8 weeks, they have full use of their senses and usually go to their new home. Many Toy Poodles undergo a big growth spurt at this age as they are only eating puppy food now. At this age, your Toy Poodle will be nearly their full adult size. They also reach sexual maturity during this age period. Female Toy Poodles go through their first heat if they are not desexed. At this age Toy Poodles are extremely active and also very inquisitive. They love exploring their world and learning new things. Unfortunately, this is the age where you might start having problems with your Toy Poodle as it is the adolescent stage. Toy Poodles may start displaying some regressive behavior like not listening to your training commands, being a bit aggressive or chewing up stuff. This is especially the case if your Toy Poodle is not desexed as their hormones will start to kick in. Further Reading.