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

Step 1 Develop a timeline for whelping. Dogs typically gestate for 63 days, but larger breeds such as boxers may whelp a day or two early. Step 2 Schedule your female for a pre-whelping exam at least 10 days prior to the whelping date. Your vet will examine your dog to make sure she is healthy and will tell you how many puppies to expect. Step 3 Prepare the whelping area the week before your dog is due. Select a quiet room, such as an extra bedroom or guest bathroom. The pool makes an excellent whelping box, since it allows the female to climb in and out but keeps the puppies inside. Erect a heat lamp over one side of the pool to keep the newborn litter warm when the mother gets up to eat or take a potty break. Step 4 Observe your boxer carefully for the first stage of labor. Your dog may pace, dig and circle around in the whelping box to prepare a safe nest for the impending puppies. Boxers tend to be a little nervous during labor, so clear the room of any other pets and people. Step 5 Watch your dog for signs that labor is advancing. The dog may lay down and get up repeatedly, pant, pace or lick her vulva as she starts having contractions. You may be able to see her abdomen tighten and relax in increasingly frequent waves as the contractions increase. Step 6 Stand clear of the whelping box as your boxer starts to deliver. The first puppy will appear with the thin placental membrane still covering its body. The female should break the sac and lick the puppy clean to stimulate breathing. Tear it gently with clean hands and rub the puppy with a dry towel. Step 7 Wait for your boxer to bite the umbilical cord before moving the puppy under the heat lamp. Snip the cord with a pair of sharp scissors and dab a little iodine over the cord to prevent infection. Step 8 Monitor the remainder of the birthing process. The female may rest slightly between puppies but should not take more than 60 minutes to deliver the next puppy. Boxers have very angular pelvises, and puppies may get stuck in the birth canal. If your dog appears to be straining with no evidence of another puppy coming, or in any distress, call your veterinarian immediately. More Articles. Boxer Pregnancy Signs of Pregnancy Whether you are purposely and carefully breeding your female Boxer or you think your Boxer may be pregnant due to an unplanned tie, it is important to notice the subtle signs as soon as possible. It will only take 9 weeks 63 days, on average for your Boxer to go from conceiving to having her puppies; it is vital to give her special care as soon as you know she is expecting. The signs of Boxer pregnancy are not glaringly obvious immediately. However, you'll know, just by the physical changes, within the first two to three weeks. You'll take a step back and wonder, "Does her stomach look a bit rounded out? She may begin to show dominance around the home; to other pets and even try to show this to her owners She may be moody; wanting to be left alone and rest as opposed to her normal wanting to play, etc. Possible decreased appetite at first, then a heartier appetite by week 3. Confirming if a Boxer Dog is Pregnant Typically, there are no outward signs during the first two weeks. A female may start to show signs by week 3. And it will not be until week 3 that a pregnancy can be confirmed by the veterinarian. There are several different types of tests that can be done. Blood test: This is the test that will let you know as early as possible; it is accurate starting on day .Ultrasound: This is accurate starting on day 28 and is not usually performed if a blood test was conclusive unless the veterinarian suspects possible issues. Palpation: This refers to a vet manually feeling the abdomen. An experienced vet should be able to tell by day .X-rays: These will not be conclusive until day 42, because until this time bones of the fetuses have not calcified enough. These are often taken a week or so before the expected due date to confirm how many puppies to expect. Special Care During the Pregnancy From the time that you learn your Boxer is pregnant to several weeks after the birthing of the pups, your dog will need special care. Her increased appetite after week 3 will be the most obvious sign and the one that you will need to tend to. A Boxer in this state will normally eat about 3 times the amount she normally does. Although she will be eating more in the last 3 weeks, be sure to spread out meals 3 to 5 times per day so that bloat does not occur. Do not give her additional calcium. This has been linked to eclampsia a sometimes fatal drop in blood calcium levels that occurs in nursing dams , difficult deliveries, soft tissue calcium deposits in the puppies, and certain joint abnormalities in the pups. Too much of these can cause birth defects in the puppies. Look for any discharge and report even a small amount to the vet. It can be a sign of a very serious infection including pyometra, which an be deadly if not treated. Do not be surprised if your Boxer's stomach does not appear to be too big. A large Boxer carrying a small litter will not have that much of a drooping stomach. Keep her exercising with daily walks; it is important to keep her in good shape. This can be curtailed for the last week, as she should be inside and resting. Knowing it is Time Your Boxer's veterinarian can tell you exactly how far along your dog is via an ultra sound or x-ray. Knowing that the day is approaching, beginning on day 55 you can take your dog's temperature. This is done rectally. A dog's normal temperature is .When her temperature goes down to 98 F .Setting up a Whelping Box A whelping box is the area that you will prepare for your dog to give birth. It must be a confined area that: Is placed in a quiet area; once she gives birth, she will nest here to nurse her puppies. Has at least 15 layers of sheets on the floor of the box. As she goes through the delivery process, you can roll up and put each layer into a large, strong trash bag. This will create new, fresh sheets throughout the delivery. Crumbled up or shredded newspaper can be placed on top of the sheets and in between the layers. You may also put some blankets. Expect this to be a very messy area. Keep the room warm. Additional heat must be supplied to keep the newborn puppies warm. Many owners use heating pads, placed under a blanket. The optimal temperature is 85 F .Tips for Whelping What you should do when your dog gives birth? While this is a natural process of life, an owner should never make an attempt to go this alone. You must prepare yourself: Trim your nails very short, file them so that they are smooth Take all rings off of your fingers Put on clothes that you have no problem with throwing away afterwards Your Boxer will not want to eat right before she is ready. Do not try to force feed her. Keep all other pets, especially a male dog, out of the room. Allow her to lay down in the whelping box. Contractions will begin. Do not panic if your Boxer cries while giving birth; this is natural although a bit heartbreaking. Keep in mind that it is temporary. Do not attempt to give her any medication. As each puppy begins to crown, be ready in case you need to help pull them out. If you do, your grasp but be firm yet gentle. If a part of the puppy is showing, hold on to it so that it is not pulled back in. Allow nature to work, but if a pup is truly stuck you will then need to step in and help. Each of the Boxer puppies will have a thin sac surrounding them and will be attached by the umbilical cord. Normally, the dam will tear away the sac, bite the cord and lick the puppy. If she does not do this, it is time to step in. Carefully remove the sac, using sterilized thread cut the cord by tying the thread around it and pulling on each end. Rub the puppy to stimulate blood flow and breathing. If the puppy has difficulty making it to the dam, help him or her reach her to suckle. Your Boxer's veterinarian should have been able to tell you how many puppies were due. However, to make sure, after what you believe is the last puppy to come out, feel your Boxer's stomach. You should be able to feel if there is another pup inside. Once the last puppy has been born, remove the mess. Take away the sheets until you have a clean area. Lay down more blankets. Allow both dam and puppies to be left alone. Do not try to cuddle a newborn puppy. His or her place must be with the dam. The dam will be producing colostrum during the first few days. This is a highly nutritional fluid that supplies the puppies with antibodies to fight against infection and disease. Keep an eye out for any puppy who does not seem to be getting this nutrition. Your Boxer may not want to eat right after giving birth. Allow her a day or 2 to get back into an eating schedule. She should have a rather big appetite during the time that the pups are suckling. When to Call the Vet - Emergency Situations While we all hope that the birth of puppies happens without complications, one must be prepared in the case of emergency. Your Boxer's veterinarian should be called when your dog is about to deliver. It is so much better to be safe than sorry. Black Boxers - There are certainly Boxer dogs that appear to be black. However, bloodlines suggest that this color cannot exist in the breed. Photos and information. Boxers have large heads, even before birth. In addition, some bitches give birth early. Recognizing the signs of impending birth are key to a healthy birth for the bitch and the pups. Take your dog to the veterinarian. Your vet is your best ally in a healthy birth. You should take the dog after mating to ensure that it is pregnant. Around 40 or 50 days after mating, your vet should order an x-ray of the developing pups. The vet will help you count the number of heads so that you know how many pups are in the litter. As the puppy develops, it lays calcium in the bones. The more calcium in each bone, the clearer it shows up in the x-ray. According to Phi Vestavia, a U. If enough calcium is present in the legs to see the tibia, then the puppies may be born in 48 hours. These times are not hard and fast rules. The health of the bitch and puppies can alter the time frame. Measure the dogs food after eating. According to Belire Boxers, a U. Prior to going into labor, the boxer will become restless. It may go to the prepared whelping box, tear the paper or bedding material, and form a nest for the birth. The dog may shiver or pant as its body prepares for labor Tips Look at the x-ray with your vet. It is very difficult to determine individual bones when the dog is pregnant with several puppies. The vet will also look for any stillborn or stunted pups that may pose a birth risk for the mother or puppies. Warnings Call the vet if the dog seems to be in distress, goes through all the signs of labor with no result or you have any questions. Tips Look at the x-ray with your vet. Items You Will Need.

French Bulldogs require a moderate environmental temperature. Their short coat is not suitable for very hot and cold weather conditions. Many people don't know is that it isn't used to being outside in colder weather. In order to make sure that your Frenchie feels warm, healthy, and safe all winter long, always be sure to dress them comfortable. Your pup is not afraid of the cold weather, especially when they have a new Plush Hooded Sweater. This nylon pullover sweater helps your dog look spotted, feel warm, and stay safe on chilly and breezy days. Our Rainbow Knitted Sweater is the perfect gift for your little pup! It features a comfortable material and fun colors to match any mood. The stretchy material allows for a custom fit, so every dog can enjoy their new sweater. Its classic design features a soft fabric that is gentle on their skin and a timeless look that suits all ages. Keep your dog warm and fashionable this winter with our high quality Wool Pig French Bulldog Sweater. Our choice is definitely the winter French bulldog Sweater. This stretchy sweater is made of super-knit wool that will keep your pup warm all day long. It's one of a kind by LUnique designs. It has a very delicate light weight and very soft pattern that shows beautifully in an elegant made with anti-allergic, acrylic yarns. It's perfect for Birthday , Anniversary, Christmas Gift, or for any other special occasion. This dog sweater is wonderful for chihuahua, dachshund, shitzu, poodle, maltese, yorkshire, yorkie, French bulldog, English Bulldog. Note: International shipping to anywhere outside of the USA, maybe takes 3 o more weeks. I have no control over how long it takes for a package to clear customs. International Buyers are responsible for any duties, import fees or customs charges that may be incurred at the country of destination. If you need other color just write to me and I knit for your nice Pet. Machine Washable on Wool Setting, delicate cycle. This Dog Sweater is ready to ship. Please note: Colors may vary depending on the color settings of your electronic device. If there's an issue with your Puppy Sweater upon receipt please contact LUnique Designs within 24 hours of receiving the item. All sales are final! Please no returns or exchanges. All of our LUnique products are exclusive designs. Please review your order careful before placing the order and contact us with any question. Several TikTokers were concerned about the young dog in the video being left alone. A dog that hasn't learned to enjoy time on its own can exhibit problematic behaviors when left alone. At worst, they can develop separation anxiety," Gibeault said. But teaching your puppy that "enjoyable things happen" when they're alone such as getting toys and treats will help it cope with "not being the center of attention, even when you are at home," she said. Once you've taught the pet to be alone, even when you're just in another room, your dog won't associate your leaving the house with being alone. Are Sweaters a Safety Hazard for Dogs? Some TikTok commenters expressed concern about the sweater being potentially dangerous for the dog. User Ashley wrote: "I wouldn't keep the sweater on him! If he gets caught on something it could accidentally strangle him! I wouldn't leave a sweater on him.Only choose practical clothing made from quality materials that are natural and that fit well," CVETS said. Other TikTokers were simply amused by the video and were left wondering what happened to the sweater and how it ended up on the TV. In a comment that got 4, likes, Emma Georgia asked: "Why is no one wondering how the sweater got up there?!? The video has not been independently verified. Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life newsweek. Read more.

Things to do with your English Bulldog Pennsylvania is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Pennsylvania that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Pennsylvania that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Pennsylvania, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Pennsylvania, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Pennsylvania, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Pennsylvania, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses Pennsylvania has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Pennsylvania. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Pennsylvania is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Pennsylvania? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. They are situated in the Appalachians of South Western PA and are run by a highly experienced and motivated team of volunteers. Contact: admin keystonebulldogrescue. All dogs that come to ECBR are fully vetted, fixed, and cared for to ensure they are healthy before their adoption day. Contact: sara. Volunteers provide foster care, veterinary care, and rehabilitation for these dogs before they are made available for adoption. Contact: HSrescue aol. They are based in eastern Pennsylvania and work with adopters and shelters in the mid-Atlantic region. American Bulldog Rescue is not a shelter, but an all-volunteer group where the dogs receive loving care in a network of dedicated foster homes until the time when their forever family is found. Contact: Jodi AmericanBulldogRescue. They are the main, most reputable ones. They may or may not have this breed available for adoption at the time of your search. So do bear that in mind. Generally, these rescues should be the basis of your search. And while I spent a lot of time researching to find these rescues, if you were to find others that are not listed that you believe should be, do contact me. Or looking for other breed rescues in PA? Check out my followings guides below:. Since he was attacked by other dogs, he is a bit timid at first. He will be spending more time with her now that he is recovered from his wound and neuter. Good with cats? Good with children? He loves walks to smell around the neighborhood and is always down for a car ride. He had many wounds and a giant wound on his leg. After a few months, he has finally healed! Louie loves meeting people and is very curious to everything and everyone. Louie loves toys, bones, and walks. He is not a fan of the sweeper, and absolutely hates motorcycles. He is not a fan of tubby time, and will fight you the entire time. He his a little timid at first when meeting larger dogs, so slower introductions will be a must for him. He would do best with another relaxed, low key female or would do fine as a single dog. We have been working on listening skills, but still needs finishing touches. He loves to jump so we have been working on getting that stopped. Louie is FULL of energy and loves life. Louie loves a fenced in back yard so he can run around and watch the activity of the neighborhood. Please visit www. Remember - Adoption is always the best option! We cannot place dogs in homes with children under 10 unless that dog has lived with kids or is in a foster home with kids. Thank you. To be considered for adoption, you must apply using our free, online application. Only approved applicants are put into contact with the foster family to setup a meeting with the foster dog. September 11, , pm.

Female pup is 6 weeks old, has been wormed and shots are up to date. Purebred, German Shepherd Puppies for sale! These adorable puppies, are super playful and need loving families. Available near the Quad Cities. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Rescue .If interested, please call: .AKC registered with 1st shots. Beauceron puppies and dogs in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Ad ID .Our breeder answered all our questions and was very accommodating, and we now have our. Fetched by : Nathan's Puppies German Shepherd. Male puppy is 6 weeks old. Category: German. Chrissy is a sweet little girl, very loveable and cuddly! She loves to run and play with children, so is well socialized and spoiled. German Shepherd Puppies For Sale. German Shepherd Dog. German shepherd puppies playfulpups.Fort Wayne, Indiana. Joe's Shepherds! Breeding German Shepherds for good homes!! Transportation to Fort Wayne, IN available. A beautiful sweet little snuggly litter of German Shepherd puppies will soon be ready for their home. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Indiana German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Indiana » Fort Wayne. German Shepherd puppies Have 4 left Standard coat 70 50 Longhaired female with blue eyes Have all shots and before they go will get another round Dewormed 2 times Mother on site Father is health tested everything good, hips are excellent so he would be bettering the breed for more info on them text xxxxxxxxxx number in photos Accepting trades. He is up to date on worming and shots. Puppies Breeds All Puppies. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Hello, I am Chris Lengacher! I live near Fort Wayne, Indiana and love animals, dogs, and country. View Detail Male German Shepherd. Fort Wayne, IN. Find your perfect puppy here today. Updated on all vaccinations and pre-spoiled. We have two male yorkies up for sale. German Shepherd Puppies for Sale Four adorable male puppies looking for a new home! Two litters to choose from: DOB or .Puppy Pit German shepherd. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy German Shepherd Dog puppies from the best breeders. These pups are in Fort Wayne, Indiana too! All About Me! AmericanListed features safe and local classifieds for everything you need! Learn more 1, puppies available. Breeding German Shepherds for good homes!! A National Breed Club Parent Club is a national organization that is dedicated to the preservation, protection and advancement of a dog breed. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation. Their brains, size, and loyalty make them ideal police and service dogs, but they also make great friends. To see more adoptable Australian Kelpies in Fort Wayne, Indiana, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! We value honesty, love our dogs, and raise quality puppies. We have an amazing selection of German Shepherd puppies. Dogs in Fort Wayne Indiana. He has been wormed and shots are up to date. Dogs and Puppies, German Shepherd. German Shepherd puppy indiana, perry township. Learn more puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color. German Shepherd puppies for sale! Get matched with a pupper from a responsible German Shepherd breeder near you. German Shepherds for Sale in Fort Wayne. Australian Kelpie puppies and dogs in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Browse these Australian Shepherd rescues and shelters below. Why buy an Australian Kelpie puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of Australian Kelpie puppies who need a home. For anyone who is looking for a puppy or just wanting to research breeds, I would recommend AKC Marketplace. Nathan's Puppies German Shepherd. If you are a human seeing this field, please leave it empty. Well-bred puppies from a long line of working dogs. Dogs and Puppies » German Shepherd. German shepherd husky mix puppies. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at .Breed German Shepherd Breed Info. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Have 4 leftStandard coat Longhaired female with blue eyes Have all shots and before. This is the price you can expect to pay for the German Shepherd breed without breeding rights. German Shepherd puppies Have 4 left Standard coat 70 50 Longhaired female with blue eyes Have all shots and before they go will get another round Dewormed 2 times. Australian Shepherd puppies and dogs in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Dogs and Puppies, German. These puppies have German import bloodlines and are UTD on shots and dewormed. All of our puppies are family raised and well. She is very social and has a beautiful coat. Your puppies will arrive home loved, vet checked, vaccinated, and with a health guarantee. Von Holtzapple German Shepherds — german …. Dogs for Sale in Fort Wayne. AmericanListed features safe and local classifieds for everything you need! Our dogs are given only the best kind of food, up-to. Save this search and we'll notify you when they are. Our farm includes dogs, foxes, geese, deer, doves, pigeons and cats, with plans to add more animals in the near future. For any information please contact, Robert E. We provide exceptional working-class dogs, training and equipment while impacting lives beyond today. Why our puppies are better.Training, Genetics, Nutrition. Training: Our training sets our puppies apart to become the elite of the elite GSD's. From birth, we treat every puppy as if they will one day go on to serve a community as a police K-9 and our training reflects this expectation. A portion of the puppies we raise will one day serve as police K-9's and others will be sold as extreme-quality pets. From 3 days old, our puppies lifes are molded and crafted to ensure the best possible adult dogs with correct drives, sociability and skill. From days our puppies undergo BioSensor training, developed by the Military Working Dog Program to create "super dogs. As the puppies begin to perfect their walking ability, we introduce them to small obstacles around 3 weeks of age. These small obstacles normalize them to various surfaces, heights and physical challenges, making them more confident in unique situations. Throughout our puppies time at Impact Dogs, they are socialized with numerous people of varying ages and genders and taken into a plethora of locations and environments. All of this time and consideration ensures each puppy becomes familiar with the world they have just been brought into. We then begin to train puppies in areas which they may someday use as a police K.Between weeks, we begin prey drive exercises using soft toys. Once the puppies are fully weaned, around weeks we begin to test and develop each dog's prey drive through basic bite work using rag materials. These exercises are best thought of as a very thought-through game of fetch paired with tug-of-war and do NOT result in aggression but rather a very energetic and excited puppy. We also begin teaching proper grip at this stage. Once the puppies are weeks, we begin to develop their hunt and ball drive through hide-and-seek exercises. Throughout this entire training process, each puppy is again well socialized with people of various ages and genders and is constantly physically handled to ensure the greatest possible sociability. Trained puppies are developed until at least 16 weeks old. During their extended stay at Impact Dogs, we teach them to sit, down, stay at least 50 ft. The foundation of a left-side heel is also began. Furthermore, each trained puppy is potty trained to go outside in the grass. Each puppy will also be familiarized with traveling in vehicles and staying overnight in a puppy crate. As the puppies grow past 8 weeks, we further develop their prey drive, hunt drive, ball drive, grip, targeting skills, overall confidence, environmental soundness, sociability and obedience. As certain puppies excel in their development and drives, they will be further trained in advanced obedience, narcotics detection, tracking, building search, area search and article search as prospective police K-9's. We only breed working bloodlines with males and females that demonstrate the proper drives, temperament, and health. Nutrition: Our German Shepherds are provided high quality foods that we change with their needs; performance, nursing, maintenance, growth, etc. Our dam's are provided for throughout the pregnancy process with high-nutrient foods, proteins and proper calcium ratios. As our dam's whelp their pups, her nutritional needs are continually met through foods and supplements during the various stages of whelping and weaning. This ensures each puppy has the best possible start in their development. Our puppies are then weaned using high-quality food with proper calcium, protein, and fat levels for proper growth and development to promote life-long health. Jackie Sparks. Monday — Friday: a. Saturday: a. Closed Sunday Monday — Saturday: a. Sunday: a. Scout, on the left pictured with her litter-mate Sammy , is a beautiful female German Shepherd with wonderful coloring and a bright, friendly, and wonderful personality. German Shepherds are the second most popular breed in the USA and can grow to average between 75 and 95 pounds. Herding or Working dogs, they love exercise and lots of playtime. Curious and intelligent, they are very trainable and are fiercely loyal making them great family dogs. German Shepherds are double coated and that means you can expect a lot of shedding from your new four-legged friend. Their nails should be checked and clipped every month and their sensitive ears should be checked weekly. Last year, we cared for thousands of German Shepherds and Shepherd mixes. Included in our basic service is nail clipping and ear cleaning. Most of our German Shepherd owners also take advantage of our awesome de-shedding service to help remove the dead undercoat and reduce the hair flying around your house. Be sure to ask your Aussie Pet Mobile professional groomer about all our great add-on services tailored for your pet. Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training. Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne has adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne offers both puppy and adult dog group classes. Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter. Empowering Owners We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times. Personalized We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis. Environment Specific We train wherever issues tend to arise i. Supportive We support owners in the off-hours when training is "not in session". Involved We work with all members of the household. Satisfaction Ratings Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental and physical stimulation they need. Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. All Sizes. All Ages. The Dog Training Elite Difference Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out. The Dog Training Elite of Fort Wayne training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Find a German Shepherd trainer near you today! We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call! Dog Training Elite was a last resort for us and our Shepherd, Anubis. I reached out to DTE with limited hope. Clint responded that evening and we set up the assessment discussion. Clint explained how the training worked what would be expected of everyone. He then explained the training packages and cost breakdown. There were payment options available and explanations for everything. Clint was very patient, knowledgeable and always respectful to us and our dog. Clint explains everything thoroughly and makes sure you understand. I highly recommend DTE to anyone looking for help training their dog. We called Dog Training Elite and we were seen right away! They took the time to work with our pup and we started seeing results the next day. If you have a pup experiencing problem call them!

Once he has reached maturity, you can switch to adult dog food. Not all breeds reach maturity at the same age, however, so this can make it harder to know when to switch. How Long to Feed Puppy Food Puppies need a complete and balanced puppy food until they reach maturity. For dogs, adulthood depends more on breed size than their age. Because large and giant breeds take longer to mature, they need to eat puppy food longer than small- or medium-sized breeds. Medium Dog Breeds: Medium-sized dogs weigh between 21 and 50 pounds at maturity. They tend to reach maturity around 12 months of age. They need to eat puppy food longer than small- and medium-sized breeds. They can tell you when to switch to an adult dog food and help make it a successful transition. Leftovers in a bowl could signal that your puppy is getting full and needs less calories throughout the day. Continuing to feed puppy food past the point of maturity could cause him to become overweight, which can lead to other health problems. Choose a complete and balanced adult dog food formula once your puppy reaches maturity to help him maintain his ideal body condition. When to Switch Puppy to Adult Food Once you know when your puppy will reach maturity, you can decide when to switch to adult food. If your puppy will be full grown at 12 months, you can start transitioning him to an adult formula around his first birthday. How to Transition Puppy to an Adult Dog Food When you stop feeding puppy food, you must change more than just the food he eats. The number of meals and portion sizes will shift, too. Most puppies eat three meals a day , but adult dogs can eat just two meals per day. A gradual transition helps prevent stomach upset. Days 3 to 4: Serve half puppy food and half adult dog food. Days 8 to Serve only adult dog food. If your dog resists eating the adult food or experiences an upset stomach, extend the transition time as needed. Consult with your veterinarian for more help if needed. For more information and tips on puppy and dog nutrition from our experts , visit our Pet Expertise page. Related articles. Just a few months ago, your little ball of fluff was tumbling around, getting into mischief. This article will help you determine when to switch your puppy to adult dog food, how puppy and adult dog foods differ , how to select the best adult dog food, and how to transition foods smoothly to ensure that your pup is set up for a life of good health. According to AAFCO, puppy foods should be higher in protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorous than adult dog foods. These macronutrients and minerals help support lean muscle and bone growth. They also provide enough caloric density to enable the puppy to grow and perform basic bodily functions such as breathing, digestion, and movement. Many puppy food manufacturers also include higher amounts of compounds like omega-3 fatty acids to support proper brain and eye development as your puppy ages. Large-breed puppies need specially formulated puppy foods that contain less fat , calcium, and phosphorous to moderate their rate of growth. This helps prevent skeletal diseases such as elbow and hip dysplasia that can result from growing too quickly. You need to ensure that your puppy has the extra protein, fat, and minerals they need to support their growth and development and prevent various bone, joint, brain, and eye disorders. But aside from breed size, you also need to consider whether they are spayed or neutered or if they are a highly active dog that needs more calories. Breed Size Because of their faster growth rate, smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas , Yorkshire Terriers , and Pugs reach adult size sooner than larger breeds such as Golden Retrievers , German Shepherds, and Dalmatians. The guidelines below will help you to determine when to start feeding adult dog food: Small breeds under 25 pounds when fully grown reach adult size at months of age. These breeds will be ready for adult dog food at months of age. Medium-sized breeds such as English Springer Spaniels , Australian Shepherds , and Border Collies are pounds when fully grown, and they reach adult size at months of age. With growth rates between those of small breeds and large breeds, medium-sized dogs will be ready for adult dog food around months of age. Large breeds are over 50 pounds when fully grown. There are many large breed dogs, from the Boxer to the Great Dane , so the point at which these breeds reach mature size and weight can vary between 15 and 24 months of age. With the wide range of breeds under this category and a generally slower rate of growth, these dogs will need to stay on puppy food until they are months old to ensure they have enough protein and other nutrients during this stage. They also need to get those nutrients in the proper ratio to support the growth and proper development of their larger skeletons. Activity Level Athletic dogs may benefit from staying on puppy formulas longer, as the extra protein supports lean muscle growth and function, and the extra fat and higher caloric density can allow energy for high-intensity activities. Spaying or Neutering Breed size is not the only factor when determining when to transition your puppy to adult dog food. Because puppy foods contain a higher calorie density, feeding the correct amount during the remaining months of puppyhood is very important to prevent obesity as the puppy matures into an adult. Spaying or neutering does not usually slow the growth rate of your puppy, but it may affect the growth plates in the bones of large breed puppies, setting them up for joint problems later in life. In addition, unspayed female dogs who will be bred early in life may need to stay on puppy food longer to support gestation and lactation following whelping. Switching Too Early or Too Late Because the timing of switching your puppy to adult dog food is so important, there can be negative consequences from both switching too late and switching too early. Dogs that are taken off puppy food too late may be more predisposed to obesity and associated health problems later in life, given the fact that puppy formulas have more fat and calories per cup than adult dog formulas. The extra protein and calories in puppy foods can also increase the rate of growth in certain dog breeds if they are not fed a breed-specific puppy food formula. If these breeds are left on puppy formulas too long, they can be more predisposed to developing joint problems in the future. Similarly, if your puppy is taken off a puppy formula too early, they may suffer from nutritional deficiencies and growth abnormalities, failing to reach adult size around the expected time and increasing their risk of future bone, joint, brain, and eye issues. How to Pick the Right Adult Dog Food When it is time for your puppy to transition to adult dog food, how should you go about selecting the best adult formula for them as they become young adults? The young adult stage is typically considered years of age, as middle age starts by year in many dog breeds. While most dogs are generally quite healthy during this stage in their lives, feeding them appropriately during their young adult years can help lower the risk of obesity, arthritis , and dental disease as they age. Choosing a Brand The many adult dog food companies are not all equal in terms of quality. Dry Food vs. Wet Food The next step is to decide whether you would like to feed your dog dry food, wet food, or a mixture of the two. Both types of food have positive and negative aspects, and the choice to use one, the other, or both depends on the specific needs of your dog. For example, wet food: Has a higher moisture content than dry food and may be better for dogs that do not drink much water. Has a lower calorie density per volume than dry dog food, allowing dogs to feel fuller on fewer calories, which helps control their weight throughout their lives. Is often more palatable and appetizing than dry food, so it may be a great option for picky eaters or for stimulating the appetite of dogs that are less interested in food. Can be beneficial for dogs with oral abnormalities or dental disease, as it is easier for them to chew. By contrast, dry food: Can be a more economical option than wet food. Is a great option for easier portion control and for dogs that tend to graze throughout the day rather than consume a full meal in one sitting, as dry food will not spoil as rapidly if left out for long periods of time. Is beneficial for dental health, as the crunchy pieces act as an abrasive against the teeth during chewing and help prevent tartar buildup and thus tooth and gum disease. Can be easily used as a tool in puzzle toys for enrichment and mental stimulation. Is be used in slow feeders for reducing the rate at which dogs are able to consume their meals. When your pup eats more slowly, the risk is lower of them swallowing too much air and developing bloat, a potentially dangerous condition. Nutritional Requirements The final step in selecting the best adult dog food diet is to examine the Guaranteed Analysis panel on the bag or can of food and ensure that the formula meets a few major nutritional requirements. Other formulas have glucosamine for joint health or probiotics for gut health. Some dogs are sensitive to chicken and do better on beef- or salmon-based formulas. If you are unsure of the additional needs for your dog outside of the key ingredients and nutrients listed above, consult with your veterinarian. This will help ensure gut regularity with less physical activity. Remember that dog treats and other sources of calories in the diet need to be included when determining the appropriate amount of food for your young adult dog. How to Switch Your Puppy to Adult Dog Food Once you have selected the best adult dog food for your puppy, you are ready to transition them slowly onto their new diet. Because rapid diet changes can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs, such as vomiting and diarrhea , it is recommended to introduce the new food slowly over a period of five days or so. Continue to feed your puppy as many times per day as they are used to throughout this process. If your puppy develops vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite, stop feeding the adult dog food and see your veterinarian. How Often to Feed Your Dog For large-breed puppies, it may be best for them to continue to eat three times per day. For medium-breed puppies, they should continue to be fed twice daily when they have been transitioned to adult dog food. For small-breed puppies, you may consider transitioning them to eating twice daily instead of three times per day after they are fully on adult dog food. This may involve providing more attention and playtime for your dog as they become accustomed to fewer feedings per day. Consider extra walks, extra playtime, or brushing to distract them from feelings of hunger. Some dogs may benefit from high-fiber adult dog food to increase feelings of fullness between meals. Your dog may also enjoy cleaned, raw fruits and vegetables such as sliced carrots, cucumbers, or apples without the core or seeds. If you have any questions about transitioning your puppy to adult dog food, contact your veterinarian. In addition, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist can be a great resource for any issues that come up, and they can help develop the best diet and feeding schedule for your new family member. Featured image: iStock. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Check Price Why do we need to switch from puppy food to dog food golden retrievers? They will need more high source of nutritional needs so they can stay healthy and preserve they well-being. But the first few weeks of the transition period are not that easy. Your golden retriever might experience tummy issues. You got to make an extra effort to identify the right food for your puppy during his period of becoming an adult dog. That said, you need to regularly consult with your vet and strategize about the week of the transition period so your dog will become safe with no gastrointestinal tract issues. At first, it may be hard to tell which can be mistaken for health issues or others. But these tell-tale signs are most likely that your puppy is no longer a pup but a developing adult reaching its maturity. Although we, dog owners, hard to accept that they are becoming adult golden retrievers, we still need to prepare for those inevitable events. What we need is to support them and we need to identify these signs. While those new teeth are coming in, you will need some chewing sticks or chew toys for your growing Golden puppy. This is also the time where you need to consider switching from puppy food to dog food which can be done slowly and through a discussion from your vet. Meaning that your puppy is becoming more responsible and matured. They are comparable to any highly active dogs because of their endless energy which makes them want to play all day long. But over time when your puppy is beginning to become less playful, this may be a sign that he is leaning towards adulthood. They may want to play with you every five minutes. He eats slower and eats less Puppies are known for their being voracious eaters. But when they hit their adulthood or while in their transition period to their full-grown dog, they will eat less and you will also notice how slower they eat than they are before. The puppy begins to physically mature Upon reaching 9 months of age, your golden retriever puppy is along its way to becoming mature. There are different kinds of maturity when it comes to dogs and they are largely affected through their gender. For the female dogs, they may have changes in appetite, may appear anxious than normal, and will experience a vaginal discharge of blood. You may not see it happening in an instant, but by the time and as weeks go by, you will realize that your puppy becomes a dog. Usually, the signs are, they listen attentively and responds to you and the other dogs from social cues, they can read if you are angry or happy to them, and they can easily settle down. So watch out for these signs. When he stops growing When your golden retriever has fully grown both physically and emotionally, this is definitely the obvious sign that your dog turned into a full-grown adult dog. This happens when your dog is already 1 to 3 years of age. This is the time where your dog will be needing an adequate source of protein-based nutritional needs such as whole meat mainly with first meat as their main ingredients when buying an adult dog food. Also, you may want to match their type of activity to the dog food you are considering. A general guide for feeding the golden puppy and adult Puppies who are in their first months will develop a built-in timer. This prompts him to eat based on schedule because they are a creature of habit. You should give your golden puppy at least three times a day of meals for the first three months. Prior to that, by the time he reaches four months, feed him at least twice a day permanently. Puppies ages 12 months more or less The above mentioned is the general rule. Yet, there are different cases of how puppies grow depending on their breed size. For golden retrievers, they belong to a medium-sized breed. Their age of maturity will hit by the time they are 9 months of age. While large breeds will hit their maturity when they are 18 to 24 months of age. Transitioning from puppy food to dog food golden retriever After you are completely aware and decided to shift your dog from puppy food to dog food. But be very careful to suddenly give your dog food. The key is to slowly introduce your puppy from puppy food to dog food. Let your golden retriever taste the dog food slowly so that he can get accustomed to the taste of the dog food. Normally this transition process will take about 7 to 14 days. That said, you can start the transition period by giving 75 percent of puppy food and a 25 percent adult food formula for at least 2 to 3 days. After the succeeding days, you can try increasing the adult dog food ratio to 10 percent until it becomes percent adult dog food. As a result, within 10 to 14 days, your golden retriever will somehow liken the adult dog food. If not, you can just go slower with the kibble food ratio until your dog is fully satisfied with the taste. This is among the important process during their transition period. One of the best and appropriate dog food for your golden retriever is this particular Royal Canin. Because it's breed-specific. That said, its nutritional value is specifically curated for a specific type of breed. This is to ensure that what you are getting meets the standard diet of your Golden. There's more than that, this particular dog food has a heart-healthy recipe. And because golden retrievers are vulnerable to heart problems, this will help them prevent any heart disease. Added the fact that it's also made to reinforce the skin of the dog. One of the main ingredients includes Brewers rice, brown rice, chicken by-product, oat greats. It's also packed with adequate vitamins like taurine and DHA for strong vision and helps cognitive ability. All the more, each kibble has a different design and even shape and size which is suited for the dog's jaw structure and biting patterns. This is well suited for a golden retriever because of specific nutrients and dietary needs added. Also, it supports some of the most health problems that the golden retriever commonly faces. So, this is actually worth buying for. Pros Specifically designed for golden retrievers Unique shape and sizes Grain-free. The general rule is to switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food once they reach physical maturity. For Golden Retrievers this is between the age of 12 to 18 months. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adults and need to stay on puppy food until they stop growing. Switching too early can have a negative effect on the growth and development of your pup. Golden Retrievers are considered a large breed and reach their physical maturity much later than small breeds do. All dogs differ as to when they reach maturity, which is why there is no one size fits all answer to this question. Can switch to adult food at 9 to 12 months. Medium Breeds: 20 to 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 14 months. Large and Giant Breeds: Weigh more than 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 24 months. He will continue to fill out until the age of 2 when he reaches his adult weight. Keeping your Golden Retriever pup on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months is a good guideline to follow. But, there are other ways to tell if your Golden is ready to make the transition. Here are some other signs that will let you know your pup is ready for adult food: Skipping Meals or Leftover Food Puppy food is designed specifically for growing puppies. It is higher in fat, calories, protein and nutrients to help support growth and development. Once your puppy reaches adulthood, he no longer needs as many calories. You may notice that your puppy is skipping meals or leaving food in his food bowl because he is still full. This is a good indication that your puppy is ready to make the switch. Puppies typically eat 3 meals a day, when you make the switch to adult food, you can also reduce the number of meals per day down to 2. Decreased Activity Level We all know that puppies have a ton of energy, and Golden Retriever puppies seem to have even more! But, with age comes a decrease in activity level. Once your puppy starts to mature, you will notice they also start to calm down. Weight Gain Once your Golden Retriever puppy is fully grown, they no longer need high-calorie food. If you continue feeding puppy food to your adult Golden Retriever, you may notice excessive weight gain. Weight gain is a clear indication that your Golden Retriever is past the puberty stage and is ready to switch to adult food. The transition to adult food is important, as puppy food can quickly pack on the pounds. Weight gain is usually seen in Golden Retrievers who are spayed or neutered because owners continue feeding them the same amount of food as before. The age of spay or neuter lines up to around the time your Golden Retriever should transition to adult food, which is when they are finished growing. Puppies require a higher amount of calories, protein, nutrients and fats in order to fuel their growth. While puppies need the proper food to grow and develop, adult Golden Retrievers require food to maintain their bodies. Puppy food is: Smaller in size, making it safer to chew and swallow. Softer in texture, catering to the softer and smaller teeth of a puppy. Contains nutrients and fats essential for bone growth, muscle development, and energy. Carefully balanced for growing puppies. Feeding properly balanced puppy food is important, and large breeds like Golden Retrievers benefit from specially formulated large-breed puppy food. Most vets and nutritionists consider a pup a large breed if they weigh between 55 to Lbs when fully grown. Large breed puppy food is lower in fat and calories than regular puppy food, and it has a carefully balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus. This allows for slow and steady growth, supporting joints and bones. For more information on large breed puppy food, check out this article from PetMD. Different quantities and ratios of nutrients are ideal for different life stages. Keeping your adult Golden Retriever on puppy food can lead to obesity and other health issues such as faster growth, which can lead to hip and elbow dysplasia. Puppy food is too rich and dense in nutrients which not only causes significant weight gain in adults but could result in stomach upset and diarrhea. It could also lead to an overdose of vitamins and minerals. Adult dog food contains nutrients that are suited for dogs who are passed their growth stage. Adult Golden Retrievers need food that helps them maintain their optimal health and weight. The switch to adult food needs to be gradual, over a period of 7 to 10 days. This will prevent any stomach upset in your pup. Basically, the best way to transition your puppy to adult food is to buy a bag of adult food when you purchase the last bag of puppy food. Gradually mix the two foods together, increasing the amount of new food over a period of 7 to 10 days. By day 9 or 10 your Golden Retriever should be eating his new adult food. If at any time during the transition period your Golden Retriever experiences an upset stomach or diarrhea, or simply resists the adult food, you can extend the transition time as needed. Final Thoughts So, as you can see there is a right time and a wrong time when you should switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food. Golden Retrievers grow and mature at a slower pace than smaller breeds do, and require the essential nutrients found in puppy food for much longer. It is recommended to keep your Golden Retriever puppy on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months. You want to gradually introduce the new food in order to avoid any stomach upset. Is your Golden Retriever puppy ready for adult food? At what age did your Golden Retriever start eating adult food? Share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you! Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods.

Smart, loyal, confident, courageous, and steady; a true dog lover's dog. Monthly baths and brushing with a Fuminator undercoat brush keeps the shedding under control. Energy Level: Very Active; These big guys were born to work; they require regular mental and physical exercise, along with as much playtime as possible. Exercise and Nutrition Because they are so high energy, German Shepherds tend to stay in good weight. Younger dogs will seem thin, but will fill out and grow more muscular as they mature at months. Feed a low-grain balanced diet as recommended by your veterinarian, and address the calories and exercise before weight becomes an issue. Generally considered dogdom's finest all-purpose workers, GSDs are large, agile, muscular dogs of noble spirit and high intelligence. For such deep-chested, solid dogs, they move quickly with great nimbleness afoot. The GSD's natural gait is a free-and-easy trot, but when duty calls they can turn it up a notch or two and reach great speeds. Standing as high as 26 inches at the shoulder and built like a brick doghouse, the GSD when viewed in outline presents a picture of smooth, graceful curves rather than angles. What is the German Shepherd Dog Like? The German Shepherd is the world's leading breed for police guard and military work as well as loving family loyal companion dog. They originated in Germany in the late 's and quickly became one of the most popular breeds of all dogs. Today German Shepherds consistently hold a spot in top five of the AKC breed popularity list, and are currently number 3. There are many reasons why GSDs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but breed experts say their dog's most important attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn and retain commands for an amazing number of specialized jobs, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. Well-bred GSDs of proper training and socialization will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians eternally devoted to their human flock. .Schaeffer Haus GSD. Messages are NOT coming through to my email account right now. As a Graduated Vet tech, I have seen the misery of a poorly bred dog. Reviews: I can honestly say this is one of the best dog breeders I have ever talked to before. Billie and Mr. Pete are very knowledgeable about their animals and dedicated to providing them with the best care no matter the conditions. After a ton of e-mails, visits, phone calls, etc.I finally found Ravenhill. Before I get into the quality of dogs they have, let me start by saying how much I like Billie and Peter. They are honest, respectful, kind, and willing to help. The first time I called Billie we spoke for over an hour and she gave me so much useful information. She tells you what you need to hear! We visited Ravenhill in early December. We spent a couple hours with Billie, Peter, and their German Shepherds. She had all ages to look at, my favorite being Echo who was 9 weeks at the time. All her dogs are friendly. The quality of our puppy is amazing. This pup is beautiful, smart, and has a very good temperament. We are very happy we selected.Billie is very protective of her dogs. At first we thought it was kinda rude, but if you think about it, she is just a awesome dog breeder! She likes to keep her pups safe. Me and my family are very happy with the pups we got! If you are looking for a great breeder, with great dogs! Most of us read that book back in the 70's and know how this order takes problem dogs and uses very creative ways of correcting temperament issues, either created by breeding or the people that own the dogs. They also breed German Shepherds. I have had several people over the years that HAD dogs from that order, that have bought my dogs, because our philosophy was so similar. People that breed dogs should always try to put the highest quality on the ground with their breeding, not JUST because they have papers, but because they come from well bred dogs. Honor the breed, breed true to the standard, in both confirmation, temperament and health. Don't fall into the trap of "bigger is better" or "German Shepherds are always guard dogs". These are companion dogs, with herding and protective instincts, and should always be bred for balance, both in disposition and confirmation. Titled dogs have proven their ability to be trained to the highest level, they must pass a physical screening hips and elbows before they are trained, and trained before they are bred in the kennels of working and working showline dogs with the European breeders. Some can be "reserved", some lines are more friendly, both are acceptable. Always meet the parents, and siblings and ask lots of questions about your breeders experience, expertise and time they have put into the breed. So, I pass that quality on to my buyers, who want a well bred companion dog that can be trained, or carry the instincts of devotion to people. I had both import and American lines when I started, but focus on dogs from titled import show and working lines. Pups coming from titled dogs means that the dogs behind my dogs are bred by real GSD breeders, hips and elbows are checked before they are titled, and the imports all have their 1st title before they are ever bred. These dogs are sound, intelligent and are ideal companion dogs as well as personal protection and working dogs. I am very selective about the lines I have and the temperament associated with those lines. Dogs are either OFA'd through American testing or import testing, microchipped, at least 4 wormings and shots at appropriate ages. I became involved with the breed while in Vet Tech school in .I became involved with the Jack Russell terriers in .My dogs hailed from England, the country of origin. Most of what I had at the time were the smooth working lines but later became involved in showing in UKC. Puppies from my lines are clean breeding no inbreeding but I do line breed and genetically cleared breeding pairs out of English country of origin and Australia, often referred to as country of development lines. Actually both countries were developing dogs to suit their region and vermin problem, so there are several types, and in any given litter it is good to have all 3 coats represented. Shows more variation in the gene pool. They are born in the house and only let out side after 1st shots. They are family pets, Earthdogs, Barnhunt dogs, stable dogs, agility dogs.All coats should retain a "double coat". Ideally the ears tip, but occasionally they will be small enough and light enough that an ear will prick. This is fine for pets, not acceptable in the show ring however or as Earthdogs as dirt can enter the ear canal. Tails are NOT cut short like they were many years ago but left natural or "tipped" when the dew claws are removed to ensure that they are not too long and can be damaged if the dogs are used as "Earthdogs" and go underground. Pups can be held with a non-refundable deposit transferable to another litter with approved purchase. ALL the German Shepherds are bred to be family, personal companion and protection dogs. When placing a dog, I try to match temperament 1st, sex then color. My 4 Import showline males have good "drive" as well as great functional conformation for movement and athletic ability and breeding them to my working line females, makes the pups more manageable and easy to train, and not so hyper that they are harder to handle by older adults and children alike. Once brought into the family group, outsiders will be viewed with caution until they are cued otherwise. Ironically, her dam and granddam and sire all showed in the American venue quite successfully, one grandmother showed at Westminster several years back. But at home.Easy to handle, very focused, easy to train, all of my dogs exhibit trusting loyal temperaments, adaptable to a caring, loving, home. All want to please, but are NOT unmanageable!!! Good temperament is critical for training and socialization. A shy or overly aggressive dog is never a good fit for a family and is harder to train. They have to WANT to please you and will try to earn your praise. Fear biters are a liability and overly aggressive dogs have their own agenda. And although these dogs have a good strong bite and a good prey drive for training, they are not police or military hard. Review I was appreciative of getting, thank you. My wife wanted a German Shepherd for many many years. We began looking and came upon Ravenhill Russells and German Shepherds. .Without a shadow of a doubt we felt like this was the place to get our puppy. When we went to visit the potential mother, all dogs were well taken care of and very healthy. Billie was patient with our questions and guided us along the way. Our puppy is now almost 5 months old and we couldn't be happier. We have her in training and our instructor says she is one of the best puppies he has seen. He also can't get over how beautiful and well bred she is. We are always stopped on the street by people asking where we got her and without hesitation we recommend Ravenhill Kennel. Thank you Billie for a beautiful, loving and family friendly dog. This is what it's all about. Hi Billie, Thank you for taking the time and meeting with me and Woody Tuesday. We have named our little girl Sassafrass Sadie Belle Belle as a nod to her mother. We are calling her Sadie. Sweet, loving and playful and none of the skittishness behavior in my last Russell. Our Newfie is scared to death of her! He probably remembers Maggie and how she terrorized him. Once again, thank you! Deena M. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. I don't sell show dogs. But people deserve to have a quality pet as well. So my dogs are breed from some of the best and proven foundation lines proven sound and of quality generation after generation. .People often say, I'm not looking for a show dog, I get that. But I will NOT breed anything less than my standard and respect the standard of the breed. All dogs at some point had a function. NOT just to not shed,even lap dogs kept royalty safe tucked in their sleeves and hands warm.I am sure they have other attributes. Rendell Beatty.

Reviewed by Monica Tarantino Dr. Monica Tarantino, DVM, is a small animal veterinarian and writer with five years of general practice, emergency medicine, and geriatric pet health experience. She is certified as a Fear Free doctor. Emily has been a proofreader and editor at a variety of online media outlets over the past decade and has reviewed more than articles for The Spruce Pets for factual accuracy. These pups make a great addition to every home, as they are excellent with kids, love to cuddle, and will do anything to make their owners happy. They are medium-to-large sturdy dogs with excellent balance, obedience through the roof , and an adorable face. Keep scrolling to see the cutest photos yet and discover mind-boggling Labrador retriever trivia. Despite their name, Labrador retrievers originally came from Newfoundland, not Labrador. Continue to 2 of 16 below. Continue to 3 of 16 below. Continue to 4 of 16 below. Continue to 5 of 16 below. Continue to 6 of 16 below. A little training will go a long way. Continue to 7 of 16 below. It may require some training, but their instincts will know how to handle soft items. Labrador retrievers go crazy for plush toys and are often found napping with their favorite ones. Continue to 8 of 16 below. Pinterest Email Dogs have more coat color variations than you can count on both hands and both feet. Brown alone goes by numerous names, depending on the breed of dog. First formally developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a distinct subset of the Lab family, today chocolate Lab puppies and their ilk are consistently named among the most popular dogs in America. These chocolate Lab puppy pictures will not trick your eyes, but treat them to the wonders and the joys of infancy! Just as coat colors have any number of names, many tied to specific dog breeds, chocolate Labs have countless ways to learn, have fun, and engage with the world. Of course, interactive play is beneficial to both our next chocolate Lab puppy and to his owner. They are highly trainable, patient, and obedient dogs. Enough play! Time for lounging! Time for a nice, leisurely sit in the grass; maybe you could get her something to eat? Chocolate Lab puppies are at home wherever they are cared for. You get the coolest trinkets and baubles to entertain them, and, after a wary sniff, they pick up something else entirely? Chocolate Lab puppies were once bred solely for the hunt, but the times keep changing, and these are adaptable dogs. We already know that the vigor of youth is difficult to contain; chocolate Lab puppies thrive by moving with the times. The puppy above perused the newspaper, but not all chocolate Lab puppies are such old-media traditionalists. This baby puppy is checking Twitter on a tablet. Chocolate Lab puppies in their element Let there be no doubt; while chocolate Lab puppies are content to stay inside for a while, they yearn to be outside. The more room a chocolate Lab puppy has to run and frolic, the better! What would a survey of such photogenic dogs be without landscapes of proper scale in which to appreciate their majesty? To beautiful and pastoral vistas we go! My business is cute puppy pictures, a business which is always good. I would be hard pressed to point to one that is more visually and emotionally evocative as this next chocolate Lab puppy. Perched on a bale of hay in the late afternoon, there is a bucolic poetry to this photo that cannot be denied. I saved it for last because I wanted to linger on it. Share your chocolate Lab photos and memories! Do you love chocolate Labs? Share your love and photos in the comments! Learn more about dogs with Dogster:. I had dogs all my life until my beloved Golden Irish Emmy died 2 years ago. I was working on obtaining my Master's degree at the time and knew that besides not being ready for another companion just yet, I didn't have adequate time to devote to another dog. I started biting at the chomp a few months before finishing school and could hardly wait to find my new best friend. I think I was more looking forward to getting a new dog than graduating! Cody was my graduation present to myself and came home on May 12, , at 10 weeks of age. Even as a water-loving breed, Lab puppies still need to learn how to swim, and for his safety, I got him a life vest for swimming in deeper waters such as lakes and rivers. He loves playing in shallow water and is quickly learning to love the pool. He can't stand for me to be in it without him! He has a very calm temperament and trains easily. From the first day I had him he sat for treats without command and was totally housebroken within 2 weeks. He already retrieves the newspaper from the mailbox and drops it in my hand on command every morning. Pretty good, I think! He goes to Puppy Kindergarten every week to learn good manners and be socialized. He will become a certified therapy dog and enrich the lives of others, just as he has mine. I think the most important thing I've learned is the need to be "pack leader. Another thing I have put into practice is generating the kind of energy I want Cody to have. He will react to situations based on the vibes he receives from me , so I must be diligent in projecting the correct energy. I have never put this much work into training a dog before, but I already see the rewards of my efforts. Sometimes it seems sad that he is no longer that small little fur ball, but it is so much fun to see him grow and watch him develop. It is especially nice to see those razor puppy teeth falling out! I look forward to enjoying many more years of companionship with him! He is growing rapidly, and his paws are big, therefore the vet says he will be a huge dog! Logan is a pup who wants to play all day and sleep at night. Whenever he greets people, he gets excited and loves to get belly rubs. He is very good with the children, and doesn't like to sleep alone. He needs to be at your feet or by your side. Logan likes to jump around like a rabbit, especially when socializing with other dogs. He is very good at it. We have not mastered the art of retrieving yet, well.He likes to keep it. In all the pics I am sending, he is sitting pretty for me, but I think Logan likes to have his picture taken, he is such a ham! Logan makes us smile every day. Good night, Lolly. This is Mindy. She is sitting with her brothers Steven, age 12 and David, age .This is Jake! He is pounds 52 kg and loves to swim! As an adorable pup Rudy the Lab at two years old Happy Rudy! You can use these images for various projects such as website design, social media posts, promotional materials, and print materials. Quality and Authenticity of Our Images We understand the importance of quality images and ensure that all stock photos in our library are of high quality. The lab puppy images in our collection are taken by professional photographers, ensuring that each picture captures the adorable nature of lab puppies. We only select the most authentic images, which means your projects will look natural and organic. Tips on Using Lab Puppy Images When using lab puppy images, you want to ensure they support your message and complement your brand. Here are some tips for using lab puppy images effectively: 1. Consider the tone of your project and choose images that match it. Use images that are high quality and will look good on large or small screens. Be mindful of where and how you use the images. They should enhance the message and not distract from it. If you choose to add text to the images, be sure it is legible and complements the image. In conclusion, using lab puppy images in your project can create a warm, friendly, and irresistible atmosphere. With our high-quality stock photos, you're guaranteed to find the perfect image for your project. The tips provided will help ensure that your lab puppy images are used effectively to support your project's message. Our extensive library of high-quality stock photos includes a wide variety of images featuring this beloved breed in various settings and in different stages of life. Whether you need a photo for a website, brochure, or any other marketing material, we have the perfect image to suit your needs. Types of Images Available We offer a wide range of images featuring Labrador Retrievers, including photos of puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs. Our collection includes different colors of Labradors, including Chocolate, Black, and Yellow. You'll find images of Labradors in a variety of settings, such as playing in a park, resting at home, or working as service animals. These formats make it easy to use our images for different purposes, such as print and digital media. Our images can be used for a variety of projects, including websites, social media, brochures, posters, and banners. When choosing an image, keep in mind the intended purpose and the audience. For example, an image of a Labrador playing with a ball may be perfect for a brochure promoting dog toys, while an image of a Labrador as a service animal may be ideal for a website promoting disability services. Practical Advice on Choosing the Right Image When selecting an image, consider the message you want to convey and the emotion you want to evoke. A happy Labrador playing in a park may convey joy and playfulness, while an image of a Labrador comforting an owner may convey comfort and compassion. It's also important to consider the composition of the image. A well-composed image draws the viewer's attention to the subject, making it more effective in conveying the intended message. Choose images with a clear subject and a clean background to avoid distractions. Conclusion No matter what your project requires, we have the perfect Labrador Retriever image to meet your needs. Our extensive library of high-quality stock photos features a variety of Labradors in different settings and stages of life. Make your project stand out with our Labrador Retriever images.

Photo by louiespitzpoo IG Since a Spitzpoo is a crossbreed, it will take a lot of time, research, and breeder checks to find places where you can purchase one. Currently, we have no breeder specializing in Spitzpoos, so you may need a lot of patience and a little bit of luck to acquire one. Here is a list of a few reputable places where you might find your Spitz Poodle mix: Calico Puppy Ranch — These breeders have over 20 years of experience and breed numerous small dogs, including many Poodle mixes. At times, they may have Spitzpoos available. Aside from health, they also prioritize socializing their dogs, especially with children, making them well-mannered before transferring to new homes. Keystone Puppies — This advertising site is rigorous for breeders. They only list puppies from reputable sources to ensure high-quality and healthy puppies. They have Poodle and Spitz mixes on this site, so make sure you check them from time to time. Lancaster Puppies — This site lists several breeds and hybrids, including Spitz and Poodle mixes. They work to connect dogs from reputable breeders to loving homes. You can also filter your search by location and preferred price range. You can also check our article about our top ten reputable Poodle breeders for more options on where you can find a Spitzpoo. Aside from these places, you can also try adopting one for a much lower cost. You also get to save a life in the process. Here are some rescue shelters and organizations you can look through for your Spitz Poodle mix: Poodle Rescue of Houston — This non-profit organization has been rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding homes for rescued Poodles and Poodle mixes over the years. You can inquire on their website as they may have Spitzpoos from time to time. They are a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to saving and rescuing homeless and abandoned dogs and placing them in their forever homes. They have Spitz and Poodle mixes in their list from time to time, so you might as well keep an eye on their site. All their dogs available for adoption are equipped with up-to-date vaccination, microchip, and spayed or neutered. You may inquire to them directly regarding Spitzpoos as they may be available from time to time. Before you reach out to any breeder or organization, you might want to view our guides on how to adopt a dog and purchase a puppy safely for you to be more equipped in your doggy hunting journey. They have advantages and disadvantages as a pet. However, despite their imperfections, they still deserve unconditional love and care from their owners. Here are the pros of owning a Spitz Poodle mix: Excellent family pets: Aside from being affectionate and cuddly, Spitzpoos are great guard and companion dogs. They are also loyal and protective of their families, making them excellent pets. Highly intelligent: Spitzpoos came from brilliant parents, so they are naturally born smart, making them easy to follow commands and catch up in training sessions. Adorable appearance: Spitzpoos, with their teddy bear-like appearance, quickly melt hearts just by sitting there. They have attractive and friendly expressions on their faces, making them absolutely charming to dog lovers worldwide. Low maintenance: Despite their thick double coats, these hybrids do not demand high when it comes to grooming and cleaning. They are not heavy shedders, and they only require occasional baths. Although you may need to brush them regularly, they are still not very tiring to maintain. Of course, you should also learn about the not-so-good side of owning this hybrid. Here are the cons of owning a Spitz Poodle mix: Unpredictability in size: Like other designer breeds, Spitzpoos can be unpredictable when it comes to size. Each pup in a litter may not have uniformity on how big they can get. You can never predict their exact size, and you have to wait until they are full-grown adults. Limited sources: Unfortunately for these pups, they are hard to find. There are no breeders specializing in Spitzpoos, and you may find it challenging to acquire them even in rescue shelters. Barking: Spitzpoos are barkers, especially with strangers or unfamiliar faces. Although this may be good to alert you whenever there are intruders, if you like a quiet home and are fond of having guests in your house, you may need to dedicate time and effort to socialize your dog. Knowing the pros and cons can help aspiring owners assess if they are a perfect fit for this hybrid. On average, a Japanese Spitz weighs anywhere from 10 to 20 pounds. You can expect your Japanese Spitz Poodle hybrid to weigh eight to 17 pounds, with an average weight of about ten pounds. This is a cute little dog with large, round eyes, a fluffy coat, and even bodily proportions. The ears of this mix could be erect or floppy. Some Japanese Spitz Poodle hybrids have halfway erect ears with tips that fold over at the top. When raised in a positive and confidence-reinforcing environment, this dog should grow to be lively and friendly toward strangers and other animals. However, this intelligent dog is also prone to reacting poorly to traumatic situations. Since this dog learns so quickly, it can retain negative behaviors by accident. Keep this in mind when raising your Japanese Spitz Poodle puppy. This hybrid could have either a single or double-layered coat. Most Japanese Spitz poodle mixes are white or cream-colored. However, this mix can occasionally have a coat that is beige, tan, light brown, or other light colors. It will depend on the genetics of the breeding parents. Japanese Spitz Poodle Mix Grooming Needs Although these dogs are cute and cuddly, their soft coats can be difficult to maintain. In many cases, this coat will also be pretty long. If it has a slight curl to it, grooming gets even harder. It is wise to brush this dog regularly to prevent clumps or mats from forming. When grooming thick, curly coats, a good offense is the best defense. Regular grooming appointments to remove the undercoat if your dog has one are highly recommended. You may also want to use a conditioning treatment before combing or brushing this hybrid. It may also be smart to get your dog used brushes, baths, blow dryers, and clippers from an early age. This dog can be averse to having its hair brushed or pulled. Try to make grooming a positive experience from the start and get your puppy used to all of the necessary grooming accessories before they are fully grown. That way, things go much smoother as your dog ages. As such, you can expect a Japanese Spitz Poodle mix to live an average of 10 to 15 years! According to Dr. Jan Bellows of the American Veterinary Dental College, this will help them have a longer, happier life. Hybrids are often healthier than purebred dogs because they have more genetic diversity. Not only is the Japanese Spitz Poodle mix healthier than a purebred dog, but it combines two of the healthiest purebreds around. Indeed, Poodles and Japanese Spitz dogs are some of the healthiest little canines even though they are purebred. That is not to say that a purebred dog can not be healthy. However, many purebred dogs have been poorly genetically diversified through the years, leading to health issues. In any case, this hybrid is usually healthy and is likely to have a long life! This small dog may develop dental problems if its teeth are not cleaned properly after meals. Dental chews like Minties or Greenies can easily be given to your Spitz Poodle mix after a meal. Japanese Spitz Poodle Mix Exercise Requirements The exercise requirements of this dog are not likely to be overly demanding. In fact, you may be able to exercise your Japanese Spitz Poodle mix by throwing a toy across your living room and allowing them to retrieve it for you! This dog is also likely to enjoy a daily walk. Apart from physical exercise, it is important to provide this intelligent little dog with plenty of mental stimulation. Puzzle toys are a great way to engage the mind of your Japanese Spitz Poodle hybrid. You may also want to enroll this dog in agility competitions. It is equally as important to exercise the mind of your Japanese Spitz Poodle hybrid as it is to exercise its body. Poodles are very outgoing and affectionate. The Japanese Spitz is smart and full of energy. When combined, you will have a dog that loves to play and spend time with its family. Neither the Japanese Spitz nor the Poodle is a particularly territorial breed. However, to ensure that things go well, it is best to socialize your Japanese Spitz Poodle properly with other animals starting in puppyhood. Socialization will help to ensure that all pets in your home get along harmoniously! This dog will easily pick up on all kinds of new tricks. With so much energy, this hybrid is likely to learn tasks quickly and complete them with lots of wagging and excitement. Since this dog learns so quickly, remember to form a close bond with them at an early age. Potty Training Considerations You should know that this mix could take some effort in the house training department as a puppy and maybe even as an adult. This is not because a Japanese Spitz Poodle hybrid is unintelligent. Although this dog is smart and easy to train, it has a very small bladder. This means that it cannot wait for more than a couple of hours to use the bathroom. As you teach your Japanese Spitz Poodle mix not to go potty in the house, remember that their bladder will not mature fully until they are at least six months old. As such, you will need to let your puppy outside to use the bathroom at least every hour for a few months. Even when fully grown, this small dog will likely need to go outside to defecate more often than certain large or medium dog breeds. However, since this mix is so smart, you may be able to install a doggie door. As long as you have a fenced-in yard, this dog can easily be trusted to go in and out of the house as needed. Although the Japanese Spitz is one of the rarer breeds, Poodles are very popular in the United States. Remember to never purchase a Japanese Spitz Poodle from a puppy mill. Instead, find a toy or small dog breeder with experience caring for both breeds. Take your time and get to know the breeder before reserving your puppy. This will help to ensure that you get a healthy, happy puppy with a good temperament. Try to bring home your puppy at exactly eight weeks old. This is the ideal time to begin forming a bond with a young dog. After all, these dogs can live for many years! You definitely want to make a good investment and start things right. I am passionate about all things related to fluffy dogs and love sharing my knowledge with others. I first discovered my passion for fluffy dogs when I adopted a Shih Tzu over 10 years ago, and I have been an avid fan ever since. Post navigation. Height: 12 - 15 inches at the shoulder Weight: 15 - 19 lb. This should make a very friendly, family oriented dog. It could obviously be a very high energy and hyper dog that will be pretty small. They should get along well with other animals if exposed and socialized properly as well. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be Bostonher affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. This is not a dog for a low energy couch potato. Japanese Spitz Poodle Mix Health All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems as all breeds are susceptible to some things more than others. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Japanese Spitz Poodle mix should be a higher maintenance dog. Both of these dogs require higher maintenance. Be prepared to brush them a few times a week. Either way, get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the exercise requirements? Like all dogs they will do better if they get plenty of exercise. This should be a rather high energy dog that will need regular exercise. Plan on exercising them daily to keep their energy level down. He might be bouncing off the walls so get ready. A tired dog is a good dog. What are the training requirements? Though intelligent, it might be stubborn and demanding. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in.