how to care for goldendoodle puppy

how to care for goldendoodle puppy

For the complete list please see our German Shepherd resource page. Some breeders will offer a discount if you buy more than one pup at a time and others may have higher prices due to having a champion bloodline or other desirable traits that can command a higher price. Prices vary for a few reasons: some breeders may be trying to make a profit, some may have high-quality dogs with champion bloodlines, and others may have puppies that have been well-socialized from an early age. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is and you should go look for a more reputable breeder. How to Find A Responsible German Shepherd Breeder in Nebraska The first thing you should do when trying to find a German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska is to go and talk with some of the other GSD owners that you know and see if they can recommend any good breeders to you. Another way of finding a responsible German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska is by going online. There are several online forums where reputable breeders love to post information about themselves and their dogs so that people can easily get in touch with them. You can also search for German Shepherd clubs in your area which will often have listings of quality breeders who are members of the group. Finally, there are several dog breeders associations in all states which you can ask for help when trying to find a responsible German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska. In some areas, all breeders have to be members of local kennel clubs so it is important to contact these organizations and see if they have any recommendations for reputable breeders in your area that you can talk with. These resources should prove helpful when attempting to find a good German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska and help ensure that you get a healthy puppy from a caring breeder who will stand by their dogs over the years. Many breeders, even those who are well-respected and experienced, offer their puppies up for sale online so that they can reach out to people all over the country when trying to find good homes for their pups. However, it is always best when inquiring about one of these dogs to visit the breeder in person and see where the puppy was raised and socialized before making your final decision. This allows you to easily view any certificates or proof of health for both parents as well as seeing how the pups were cared for while still with their mother. Visiting the breeder will also allow you to ask them any questions about their experience with the breed, how they mate their dogs, and other important decisions that are necessary when raising German Shepherds. You can ask about what training or socialization has been done to prepare the pups for new homes and decide if this is something you feel comfortable with before moving forward. After seeing one of these reputable breeders in person and talking with them on the phone, it should be much easier to choose a breeder and see if their prices meet your budget as well as offering new families the right environment where the pup will thrive. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in Nebraska When looking for a German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska to purchase your new puppy from, it is always important to ask if they have references you can contact. Many reputable breeders are happy to give you the names of people who have purchased their dogs in the past so that you can get an idea about what type of experience you may have while raising this dog. You will want to contact at least three people before making your final decision but getting firsthand information from previous owners regarding experiences with your specific breeder can be very helpful when trying to find a good place. Ask Your Nebraska German Shepherd Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers If the German Shepherd breeder you are looking at purchasing a puppy from is reputable, they will more than likely allow you to meet some of their past customers. This is a great way to get an idea about what the dog is like and if it has been well-socialized. When meeting past customers, be sure to ask them lots of questions about their experience with the breeder as well as the dog itself. Meeting past customers can also help you identify any potential problems that you may encounter while raising your new puppy. A good breeder will have a veterinarian they work with frequently and who they feel is a very knowledgeable resource. They should not be afraid to give you the contact information of this veterinarian so that you can speak with them about any questions or concerns that may come up while your pup grows. If, by chance, your breeder does not have their own veterinarian in Nebraska, try to find out if they are registered with one of the established dog groups like AKC or Canine Health Foundation. These organizations maintain standards for canine health testing and care so working with these veterinarians ensures that your pup will be healthy throughout its life. You do not want to purchase a puppy from someone who cannot get it back in for regular checkups to ensure good health. A German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska should be willing to provide all of the above information to you before you make your purchase. They should also be able to provide a healthy, socialized puppy that has been raised in a clean and loving home. If the breeder cannot meet these minimum requirements, it is best to move on and find a different breeder. It is important to know the signs of an unethical German Shepherd dog breeder in Nebraska so that you can make sure you do not work with one when looking for your new pup. An unethical German Shepherd breeder will be very pushy to get you to sign the contract and pay them quickly. They should give you plenty of time to think about things before rushing into anything. Another sign of an unethical German Shepherd Dog Breeder in Nebraska is if they seem uninterested or unenthusiastic about you adopting their puppy. A good breeder wants to ensure that their pups go to good homes so they should care more than just a little bit about where their puppies end up. If the breeder cannot provide you with health certificates, registration papers, or a pedigree for the pup then they are likely not legitimate. These items are important when registering your dog and make sure that it came from healthy bloodlines. Finally, be on the lookout for breeders who have a lot of puppies available at any time of the year. This can lead to health problems so it is best to avoid these breeders in Nebraska. A good breeder will only have one or two litters available each year so they can properly care for them. A responsible breeder also does health screenings when necessary and takes their pups back when they are not sold in order to ensure that they receive proper veterinary care if anything comes up with the dog. At any rate, your new puppy should never be sick or diseased upon purchase. Taking them back to the breeder may be an option but it is still important that they remain in good hands. How to Prepare Your Home for Your German Shepherd Puppy Regardless of where you get your German Shepherd puppy, there are a few things you need to do in order to prepare your home for their arrival. The first is to set up a safe and comfortable area for the pup to sleep in. This can be a crate or an enclosed area like a small room. Make sure that there are no dangers lurking in the area such as poisonous plants, wires, or small objects that the pup could choke on. You will also want to have plenty of toys and chew items available for the pup so that they can keep themselves busy. A bored German Shepherd can get into a lot of trouble so make sure that you provide them with plenty of stimulation. Finally, start obedience training right away. This will help to ensure that your pup knows who is in charge and will help to prevent any bad behavior from developing. If you are not familiar with the method, here are some basics. Allow your pup to sleep in their crate at night and while you are gone during the day. This will help them feel secure and safe while also making it easier for them to be confined for long periods of time without having accidents on the floor. Place newspapers or puppy pads in the area that they are sleeping so that when they wake up they will have an appropriate place to go. You can also try taking them outside right before bedtime but this may not work every time. It is important that if they do have an accident you clean it immediately so that they do not get used to doing their business in the crate. This will help to reinforce good behavior and make sure that they understand what it is you are wanting them to do. Be consistent with your training and rewards and your pup should be potty trained within a few weeks. If you have any further questions about German Shepherd Dog Breeders in Nebraska, please feel free to reach out to us. We would be happy to help you in any way we can. Looking for a reputable German Shepherd breeder in Nebraska can be difficult, but there are some best German Shepherd breeders in Nebraska. Best of luck with finding your perfect furry friend. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. We weren't going to operate like everyone else did, because we were not happy with what we were seeing from other breeders. Every time we looked for a reputable, quality breeder in and around Nebraska we were met with challenges we didn't appreciate. Poor customer service, poor breeding quality dogs, poor breeding facility, poor nutrition, poor cleanliness, and high prices. Each time we had one of these experiences, we learned exactly what we didn't want to be here at Krieghund Farm. I would definitely recommend them first to anybody searching for a quality GSD. We got our beautiful Axel boy in March and he has been a great addition to our family. They would send us so many pictures and updates while we were waiting to get him. It was important to me that we got a dog from somewhere that was so caring to them as we would be, and they definitely surpassed my expectations! Murphy became our furbaby in and he has been a great addition to our family. We have another German Shepard who was 7 at the time and the two have been the best buds from day one! Murphy is active, smart, funny and we love him so! Krieghund Farms was a great find, they are very personable and to this day still check up on us to make sure all is well! Not only is he blind, he also spent the first years of his life confined to a kennel, day after day, sitting in his urine and feces. When life starts off that way, the world can be a pretty scary place. When Muddy Paws rescued Wyatt, he was underweight, lacked socialization and was terrified of everything. The little things we take for granted each day such as the sound of brewing coffee or an air conditioner kicking on startled him. But with consistent interaction and love from our volunteers, Wyatt went from being afraid of nearly everything to craving love and affection. He has steadily been gaining confidence within the calm atmosphere of his foster home and would do best in a home without children and with minimal guests. In fact, he actually navigates quite well! He seems very curious about having a potential playmate, though it would have to be another dog that is fairly mellow and will require dog intros. He likes going for walks, sunbathing, and following his foster mom around the house. Wyatt is yearning to find a forever person that will help him make up for lost time, but also someone willing to go slow and at his own pace. His adopter would benefit from having experience with blind dogs. We request that he be adopted within 50 miles of the Omaha area to benefit from continued training, as provided by a certified positive reinforcement Muddy Paws trainer. All donations go toward that mission. Adoption fees are the primary source of funding for the cost of veterinary care for our animals. If so, we will arrange a meeting for you and the animal. The adoptions for all of our animals will take place in the Omaha, NE area and must be done by the adoptive family in person. We do not ship or deliver. We conduct veterinary and personal reference checks during the application approval process. If you and the animal are not a good match, we will help you select another animal, or we will keep your approved application on file for 6 months.

And which one you should feed your new puppy? It can be confusing to try to figure out the best diet for your new dog , especially with so many food options out there. And when it comes to giving your puppy wet food, there are some positives and negatives that you should consider before feeding it to him. The Dodo spoke to Dr. Keston Smith, medical director at Bond Vet , and Dr. Sara Ochoa, a veterinarian consultant at Senior Tail Waggers , to find out what the benefits of feeding your pup canned food are and their recommendations for the best wet puppy foods you can buy. What's the difference between dry and wet dog food? The major differences between dry and wet dog food are how the foods are processed and the water content of the foods. Wet dog food is what it sounds like — wet. According to Dr. Smith, wet foods contain approximately 75 to 78 percent moisture levels, while dry foods only have around 10 to 12 percent. Smith told The Dodo. The kind of food you feed your puppy depends on your preference, but there are some upsides to wet food and some downsides, too. Smith said. But while wet food can get your puppy interested in his food, it can also make some dogs even pickier. And if your puppy eats too much too fast , you can try a slow feeder or an automatic feeder. To find the nutrient levels in wet food, divide the percentage of the nutrient usually found on the label , such as crude fat, by the percentage of dry matter the percent moisture content subtracted from , and multiply that number by .Make sure the food is made with real ingredients, such as lamb, beef and corn. The first ingredient in wet food will usually be water since it needs moisture, but the next ingredient after water should ideally be a source of protein. Smith and Dr. Smith recommends Royal Canin, and Dr. Royal Canin Wet Dog Food, .We spoke to a professional dog trainer to find out what to look for in the best training treats for puppies. We independently pick all the products we recommend because we love them and think you will too. If you buy a product from a link on our site, we may earn a commission. By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy. More from DodoWell. Click to get it NOW! Pet owners that are worried about the kind of food their dog is eating can have their worries assured with this food. That helps keep their coat and skin healthy. If your dog suffers from skin allergies, then this dog food may be a great pick for you. It contains only five main ingredients and all of them are natural. Along with beef or chicken, your pup will eat plenty of vegetables to get their nutrients. Your dog will eat the food and nothing else. This can help reduce allergies, improve their digestive health, and give them plenty of energy. This particular wet dog food comes with 16 tubs of food. Sale Contains sixteen 16 1. Picky dogs love the taste of it Fresh and real ingredients Great for dogs with dental problems or missing teeth Cons: Isolated portrait of black yorkie poo or Yorkshire terrier mix with poodle with schnauzer look Best for Puppies The best puppy food for poodle puppies is the Royal Canin Poodle Caniche. This dry dog food is specially made for purebred Poodle puppies. You know that every kibble has the right amount of nutrients and calories for a Poodle puppy to have and helps ensure they grow healthy and strong. It contains high-quality proteins and prebiotics to support digestive health and energy. This dog food is specifically designed to encourage standard poodles to chew through their food. This helps prevent them from throwing it back up due to upset stomachs. It helps them develop and maintain their muscle tone. The ingredients contain nutrients that are specifically used for standard poodles to help them grow into adult dogs and elder dogs. However, it will equally support toy versions through every phase of life. Here are the steps I took to select the best dog foods for Poodles: I did my research: As a biologist who has interned at a veterinary hospital and studied dog nutrition, I read many books on Poodles and dog nutrition in general. I also consulted with other veterinarians and pet nutritionists on the best dog food to feed Poodles. I considered the unique needs of Poodles: Poodles have specific dietary needs that vary based on their size and activity level. As such, I looked for dog foods that were tailored to the unique needs of Poodles, such as food that is low in fat and high in protein. I read customer reviews: I spent time reading through product descriptions, ingredients used in manufacturing the food, and customer reviews on Amazon, dog food brands, and e-commerce sites selling Poodle dog foods. This helped me get a sense of which dog foods were popular and well-liked by other Poodle owners. I looked for reputable brands: I also made sure to look for reputable brands that had a history of producing high-quality dog food. This included checking for brands that used high-quality ingredients and had a strong track record of producing nutritious and balanced dog foods. I avoided harmful ingredients: Lastly, I made sure to avoid dog foods that contained harmful ingredients like artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products. These ingredients can be harmful to Poodles and can lead to health problems over time. By following these steps, I was able to compile a list of the best dog foods for Poodles that meet their unique nutritional needs. In the next sections of this article, I will share my top recommendations with you and explain why they are the best choices for your furry friend. Best Dog Foods For Toy Poodles When it comes to toy poodles, feeding them a balanced and nutritious diet is essential to keep them healthy and happy. As a pet owner, you want to provide the best possible food that meets their nutritional needs at every stage of their life. In this section, I will share my recommendations for the best dog food for toy poodles. This section will cover the best puppy toy poodle dog food, the best adult toy poodle dog food, and the best senior toy poodle dog food. Puppies require a diet that is rich in protein, fat, and essential nutrients such as calcium and phosphorus. The poodle dog foods listed in this section are high-quality dry or wet dog food options that are specifically formulated for toy poodle puppies, which are typically small in size to accommodate their smaller jaws. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for toy Poodle puppies. This section will contain the best dry dog food for toy Poodle puppies and the best wet dog food for toy Poodle puppies. It also contains nutrients that promote optimal growth and development. It contains a balance of high-quality proteins and fats. This wet dog food is easy to digest and contains all the necessary nutrients that toy poodle puppies need to grow healthy and strong. Best Dog Foods For Toy Poodle Adults As your toy poodle grows into an adult, their nutritional needs will shift to focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing energy for daily activities. The dog foods in this section are high in protein but low in fat to prevent obesity and other health issues. Additionally, they contain ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that can help support healthy skin, coat, and immune system. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for toy Poodle adults. This section will contain the best dry dog food for toy Poodle adults and the best wet dog food for toy Poodle adults. It contains a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to keep adult toy poodles in good shape. The food also contains antioxidants and other essential nutrients to promote healthy digestion and overall well-being. It contains high-quality proteins and healthy fats, such as turkey and salmon. The dog food is also grain-free, which is ideal for toy poodles that may be sensitive to grains. Older dogs may require dog food with fewer calories and lower fat content to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. The Poodle dog foods in this section contain joint-supporting nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin to aid mobility, and antioxidants to support the immune system. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for toy Poodle seniors. This section will contain the best dry dog food for toy Poodle seniors and the best wet dog food for toy Poodle seniors. It contains high-quality protein, whole grains, and other essential nutrients to support healthy aging and promote optimal health. In this section, I will share my recommendations for the best dog food for Miniature Poodles. This section will cover the best puppy Miniature Poodle dog food, the best adult Miniature Poodle dog food, and the best senior Miniature Poodle dog food. The puppy miniature poodle dog foods I picked are rich in protein, fat, and essential nutrients. I picked these foods because miniature poodles are slightly larger than toy poodles, so they would need dog food with slightly larger sizes to accommodate their growing jaws. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Miniature Poodle puppies. This section contains the best dry dog food for Miniature Poodle puppies and the best wet dog food for Miniature Poodle puppies. It is specially formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of small breed puppies, providing them with the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to support their growth and development. It contains real chicken that provides essential amino acids for lean muscle development. Additionally, it contains vegetables and fruits, providing antioxidants that support the immune system. Best Dog Foods For Miniature Poodle Adults As miniature poodles reach adulthood, their nutritional needs will shift to focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing energy for daily activities. Similar to toy poodles, I picked dog foods that are high in protein but low in fat to prevent obesity and other health issues. Additionally, I picked dog foods that contain antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients that support overall health. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Miniature Poodle adults. This section contains the best dry dog food for Miniature Poodle adults and the best wet dog food for Miniature Poodle adults. It also contains antioxidants and other essential nutrients to promote healthy digestion and overall well-being. It is made with real chicken and lamb which provides high-quality protein to support muscle maintenance. It also contains superfoods like kale that provide antioxidants for overall health. Best Dog Foods For Miniature Poodle Seniors Senior miniature poodles require dog food options that are lower in calories and fat to help prevent health issues such as obesity and heart disease. I choose poodle dog foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin which support joint health and mobility. I also chose poodle dog foods that contain antioxidants and other nutrients that can also support the immune system and overall health in older dogs. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Miniature Poodle seniors. This section contains the best dry dog food for Miniature Poodle seniors and the best wet dog food for Miniature Poodle seniors. This food is specially formulated to meet the needs of aging dogs, with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, and decreased calories to prevent weight gain. It contains real chicken and brown rice, providing high-quality protein and carbohydrates. Additionally, it contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health in senior dogs. In this section, I will share my recommendations for the best dog food for Standard Poodles. This section will cover the best puppy Standard Poodle dog food, the best adult Standard Poodle dog food, and the best senior Standard Poodle dog food. As with toy and miniature poodles, I looked for Poodle dog foods that are high in protein, fat, and essential nutrients. Because standard poodles are larger than a toy and miniature poodles, I looked for dog food with larger sizes to accommodate their growing jaws. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Standard Poodle puppies. This section contains the best dry dog food for Standard Poodle puppies and the best wet dog food for Standard Poodle puppies. Best Dog Foods For Standard Poodle Adults As standard poodles reach adulthood, their nutritional needs will shift to focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing energy for daily activities. I looked for poodle dog foods that are high in protein but low in fat to prevent obesity and other health issues. Additionally, I also looked for ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that can help support healthy skin, coat, and immune system. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Standard Poodle adults. This section contains the best dry dog food for Standard Poodle adults and the best wet dog food for Standard Poodle adults. Older dogs may require dog food with fewer calories and lower fat content to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of health issues such as heart I choose poodle dog foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin which support joint health and mobility. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Standard Poodle seniors. This section contains the best dry dog food for Standard Poodle seniors and the best wet dog food for Standard Poodle seniors. Fortunately, there are many options available that cater to specific health concerns. Here are some of the best dog foods for Poodles with health issues: 1. It is formulated with added glucosamine and chondroitin that promote healthy joints and mobility. It contains a blend of antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E to support a healthy immune system. It contains food with a low glycemic index like sweet potatoes and peas that regulates the blood sugar level of your poodle. It is formulated with a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates and is made with high ingredients that support their overall health. But with so many great dog foods out there that cater to specific health concerns, you can rest easy knowing your furry friend is getting the nutrition they need to live a happy and healthy life. They come in three sizes — toy, miniature, and standard — and have a distinctive curly or wavy coat. Poodles are energetic and require regular exercise and proper nutrition to maintain their health and well-being. Choosing the right dog food is crucial for the health and longevity of your poodle. Providing them with a balanced and nutritious diet can help prevent health issues such as obesity, joint problems, and dental disease. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best dog food for your poodle. Understanding Poodle Nutritional Requirements Poodles are a breed of dog that is known for their intelligence, elegance, and curly coats. Essential Nutrients Required by Poodles Poodles are a high-energy breed, which means they require a diet that is rich in essential nutrients, such as protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Nutritional Needs of Poodle Puppies, Adults, and Seniors When it comes to the nutritional needs of poodles, there are some differences depending on their age. Poodle puppies require a diet that is rich in protein and fat to support their growth and development. Adult poodles need a balanced diet to maintain their health and energy levels, while senior poodles require a diet that is lower in fat and calories to support their aging bodies. Understanding the nutritional needs of your poodle at different stages of its life is essential for choosing the right dog food. Types of Dog Foods for Poodles When it comes to choosing dog food for your poodle, there are several types to consider. The most common types of dog food available are dry, wet, semi-moist, raw food, and homemade dog food. Dry Dog Food Dry dog food, also known as kibble, is the most popular type of dog food. It is convenient and easy to store, and it comes in a wide variety of flavors and formulations. Dry dog food is also affordable, making it an excellent choice for pet owners who are on a budget. Wet Dog Food Wet dog food, on the other hand, is typically more expensive than dry dog food. It comes in cans or pouches, and it contains a higher percentage of water than dry dog food. Wet dog food is an excellent option for dogs who have trouble drinking enough water, as it can help keep them hydrated. Semi-Moist Dog Food Semi-moist dog food is a type of dog food that is soft and chewy. It is often sold in small pouches or packets and contains a lot of sugar and salt. It is not recommended as a primary food source for poodles, as it can cause dental problems and other health issues. Raw Food Diet Raw food diets have gained popularity in recent years, especially for pet owners who want to feed their dogs a more natural diet. These diets typically consist of raw meat, bones, and vegetables. While there are potential benefits to a raw food diet, there are also potential risks , and it is essential to talk to your veterinarian before starting your poodle on a raw food diet. Homemade Dog Food Finally, homemade dog food is an option for pet owners who want to have complete control over what their poodle eats. Homemade dog food can be a great way to ensure that your dog gets all the nutrients they need, but it is essential to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to make sure that the food is nutritionally balanced. Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Food for Poodles When choosing the best dog food for your poodle, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy. Here are the factors to keep in mind: A. Poodle puppies have different nutritional requirements than adults or seniors. A poodle that is highly active will require more calories than a poodle that is less active. Allergies and sensitivities of your poodle Poodles can be prone to allergies and sensitivities to certain foods. If you notice any issues, consult with your veterinarian to determine if your poodle has any food sensitivities or allergies. Look for dog foods that contain high-quality protein sources, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Brand reputation and recall history When choosing dog food for your poodle, it is important to consider the reputation of the brand and its recall history. Look for dog food brands with a good reputation and a history of producing high-quality dog food that is safe for consumption. Price and affordability Price is also an important factor to consider when choosing dog food for your poodle. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it is important to prioritize quality and nutritional content. Look for dog food that fits your budget and offers good value for money. How to Read Dog Food Labels When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your poodle, understanding how to read dog food labels is crucial. Here are the key elements to look for on a dog food label: A. Guaranteed Analysis This section of the label lists the minimum and maximum percentages of protein, fat, fiber, and moisture in the dog food. Ingredient List This section lists all the ingredients in the dog food in descending order of weight. Look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, and fish, and avoid foods that contain a lot of fillers or artificial ingredients. Feeding Guidelines This section provides recommendations for how much food to feed your poodle based on its weight and activity level. Ingredients to Look for in Poodle Dog Food When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your poodle, the ingredients list is a crucial factor to consider. High-Quality Ingredients to Look For in a Poodle Dog Food Some of the essential nutrients that poodles need in their diet include protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Protein should come from high-quality animal sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, or lamb. Fats should come from sources like fish oil, flaxseed, or chicken fat. Carbohydrates should come from sources like sweet potatoes, brown rice, or oats. Other beneficial ingredients to look for include fruits and vegetables like carrots, peas, apples, and blueberries, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. Probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes can also help maintain a healthy gut. How to Identify High-Quality Ingredients in a Poodle Dog Food Look for whole-food ingredients that are minimally processed and avoid artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Instead, opt for brands that clearly list their ingredients and provide detailed information about their sourcing and manufacturing processes. By choosing dog food with high-quality ingredients, you can ensure that your poodle is getting the necessary nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. For example, some ingredients can cause digestive issues, allergies, or even serious health problems. By avoiding these ingredients, you can help ensure that your poodle stays healthy and happy. Additionally, watch out for ingredients that are listed as artificial, such as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. These ingredients have been linked to health problems in dogs. Finally, look for natural and high-quality ingredients, such as real meats, fruits, and vegetables that provide essential nutrients for your poodle. Special Dietary Needs for Poodles As much as we want our Poodles to stay healthy and happy, they may face some health issues as they age. Therefore, it is essential to cater to their special dietary needs. Here are some things to keep in mind: A. Overview of Common Health Issues Poodles May Face Poodles are prone to certain health issues, such as allergies, skin problems, sensitive stomachs, and joint problems. Some of them may be genetically predisposed to these issues, while others may develop them as they age. If your Poodle has allergies, for example, you may want to consider hypoallergenic dog food. For Poodles with sensitive stomachs, easily digestible foods are recommended. For joint problems, food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin may help to support joint health. Some of the most commonly recommended supplements for Poodles include omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and probiotics. Omega-3 fatty acids can help support healthy skin and coat , while glucosamine can help support joint health. Probiotics can help support digestive health and may be beneficial for Poodles with sensitive stomachs. Pay attention to the ingredients and nutritional content listed on the label, and look for high-quality ingredients like lean proteins, whole grains, and fruits and veggies. Equally important is being aware of what ingredients to avoid, such as artificial colors, preservatives, and fillers like corn or soy. You might consider consulting with a veterinarian to help determine the best options for your furry friend. Every dog is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. With a little bit of research and attention to detail, you can help ensure that your poodle is getting the best possible nutrition to live a happy and healthy life. David Cassiel As a biologist and dog enthusiast, I have gained valuable experience and knowledge through my internship at a veterinary hospital and my personal ownership of multiple breeds. My passion for dogs and expertise in areas such as nutrition, care, and training drives my goal of providing a helpful resource for dog owners through my pet website. Find More Search for: Affiliate Disclaimer We may earn commission from Amazon and other retailers when you make a purchase through our links. You can learn more about our affiliate disclaimer here. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Ingredients Due to their size and predisposition to certain health conditions, Toy Poodles need high-quality ingredients and nutrient-dense foods without a lot of empty calories. You should look for foods with gentle protein sources as the first ingredients, such as chicken or turkey, or wild-caught fish. After that, the rest of the nutrition should come from complex carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes, fruits, and vegetables. Antioxidants are foods that limit oxidative stress , which can lead to health problems like diabetes. Finally, fatty acids are healthy fat sources that contribute to brain, skin, and coat health. Kibble is hard and can help remove tartar from teeth, supporting dental health. Dry food is also lower in moisture content and may not upset their digestive system as much. If you want the best of both worlds, use dry kibble, and top it with a little wet food or a high-quality food topper. Image Credit: bodnar. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement. Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese Grapes and raisins Sweets and desserts Avocados Dogs can have dried cranberries as a treat, as these berries are good for digestive and bladder health. However, raisins and grapes are toxic to dogs and can lead to significant kidney failure. If you fear your dog has eaten raisins or grapes, reach out to your veterinarian as soon as possible. Dry Food Vs. Wet Food Dogs should rely on dry food as opposed to wet food. However, wet food should be a consistent portion of their diet. Although most dogs would eat only wet food if they could, too much wet food can cause digestive problems and make dogs sick. Dry food offers fibrous content that dogs need for a healthy bowel movement. Wet food offers food rife with vitamins and minerals — alongside an appealing taste for most dogs. However, dry food can help with tooth health and fight gum disease. A healthy combination of dry and wet food can lead to a well-balanced meal and a happy dog. The best possible dog food varieties include those that offer your Poodle only the healthiest and high-quality ingredients available. Although some of these dog food choices may be expensive, they also offer lean proteins like duck and sweet potato, so you know your Poodle is getting only the best from their diet. Although the first ingredient is a chicken by-product, this dog food option is rife with protein, vitamins, and minerals that will help your Poodle feel at the top of its game. The kibbles included in this dog food choice are enriched with omega-3 fatty acids and contain vitamins that will assist in healthy coat formation and healthy gums. Not only is this brand recommended by vets around the world, but it also includes a flavor that dogs seem to love and ingredients that pet owners can feel good about. While the cost for this dog food option is a touch high, it offers the security of knowing that your dog will have all the nutrients and vitamins needed to live a long and healthy life. Each variety contains the exclusive Nutrivantage, and no filler or meat bi-product. Chicken meal and rice flavor. No Corn, no wheat, no soy, no meat bi-products. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Alongside lean protein and quality sources of fat, this dog food option also offers tons of vitamins and minerals. Although this dog food choice is expensive, it is also ideal for dogs who are currently training or need a boost in their performance. Contains one 1 30 lb. Blue Buffalo is notorious for making only the best dog food with real meat as the first ingredient. This is rife with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants that will help your Poodle thrive. Additionally, this dog food is also enhanced with vitamins and minerals specifically for immune system support. ALL NATURAL: Created by nutritionists, veterinarians and animal lovers, our recipes provide an ideal balance of nature's finest ingredients, carefully selected to nourish and sustain your dog's.However, the calorie content of this food is a little high, which can cause weight gain. Additionally, this dog food brand is more expensive than the average, although it does have everything your Poodle will need to keep them healthy and happy. Larger Poodles may not get all the nutrients and vitamins they need from this dog food option, as it is meant for smaller breeds. This choice may be the least expensive choice for dog food while maintaining high-quality ingredients and food rife with minerals and vitamins. There are no artificial ingredients, and there is plenty of protein in this food option. This brand prides itself on not including any animal by-products or fillers. This product is rife with vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy gums and a full coat. Poodles Require Special Nutrients Poodles need more protein than other dogs because of their lean shape, meaning that Poodles may require a unique brand of dog food that can offer enhanced vitamins, minerals, and protein content. Whether you are looking for the best Poodle dog food available on the market or preparing for adoption, these top seven dog food options stand apart from other dog food options because they offer more essential nutrients for your Poodle. Although some options are expensive, these brands can help your Poodle avoid harsh and destructive ingredients like artificial dyes linked with cancer in animals, fillers, and empty calories. Instead, they boast quality and put healthy dog food ahead of profit. Small Poodles may be less than 40 pounds, meaning they may need even more nutrient-dense food to accommodate their small stature — something these dog food brands are passionate about providing. With the best dog food for Poodles on this list, you can be sure that your Poodle is getting everything they need from its diet. Similar Posts. Royal Canin Health Nutrition Poodle Dog Food We saved the best for the last, Royal Canin dog food for small breed dogs, especially Poodles because it is made with a large number of ingredients. It contains specific fibers and resistant starches to help promote digestive health. It contains specific fibers and resistant starches to help promote the digestive health of toy poodles. Promotes beautiful skin and coat health, as well as clear eyesight. Pros Includes antioxidants for an active immune system. Omega fatty acids for strong heart and joints. Prebiotics supports healthy intestinal flora. The shiny coats also mean that this breed needs more baths and tends to shed more. Here are some factors to consider while selecting the finest nutritious dinner for your adorable Toy Poodle. Ingredients You should look for these ingredients in your dog food if you have a Toy Poodle. Lean meat, with the first ingredient being real meat instead of by-products or plant proteins Whole grains instead of added sugars. Whole grains are more nutrient-dense than their processed counterparts and give your dog energy without harmful additives like sugar and corn syrup. You should never offer your poodle pups any of the following ingredients: -Artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives. Poodle Diet And Nutrition: Toy poodles are small breed dogs that need a healthy and balanced diet. Nutritional deficiencies are common with smaller dog breeds due to their fast metabolisms, so they must receive the right amount of nutrients. Nutritional stress not only influences growth but also affects behavior, which in return can hinder training. Toy poodles tend towards obesity because of their small body size and high metabolism traits. Purebred poodle puppies are prone to hip dysplasia. It is essential to provide them with a nutritious diet so they can gain the weight needed for their bones and muscles during developmental periods. Poodle pups are highly active physically, making them susceptible to exhaustion or even obesity due to the lack of exercise and overfeeding. Toy poodles should eat real meat instead of by-products or plant proteins. Serving your poodle premium food will ensure they are getting the necessary nutritional value without added sugars or corn syrup. Nutritional deficiency is the most common type of nutritional deficiency for toy poodles and can affect their growth and behavior. Calcium deficiencies may cause problems with bone development such as rickets, bowed legs, and soft bones. This condition makes it hard for them to stand or walk properly. Protein Toy poodles need a lot of protein in their diet. Lean meats and poultry are considered to be the best sources for this particular dog breed. Healthy protein comes from meat, eggs, fish, poultry, and dairy products. These are all necessary components of a balanced diet for toy poodles. Protein is required to develop muscles and bones in your dog. Muscle development requires amino acids which are obtained from protein intake into the body through food or supplements. Carbohydrates provide dogs with energy, and they also make up the majority of the diet for toy poodles. However, it is important to keep in mind that most toys will need reduced amounts of carbs compared to larger breeds. Poodle dog food should not have more carbs than protein. For the health of your Toy Poodle, it is important to be aware of their carbohydrate content as more carbs can cause weight gain. Like carbohydrates, these should only make up a few ingredients on your dog food list. Fats are responsible for keeping your dog warm and healthy. Fats also keep their skin and fur in good shape, which is why they need to eat high-quality fats every day. The best sources of healthy fats are things like fish oil or salmon oil. A healthy weight should be maintained. Dog food containing these two fatty acids is great for their overall wellbeing. A diet rich in fatty acids will provide your furry friend with healthy skin and a beautiful, shiny topcoat 7. The more antioxidants your dog consumes, the stronger his or her immune system will be, and the better its natural defenses will protect him or her from illnesses. Antioxidants fight the free radicals that are linked to age-related diseases, diabetes, arthritis, kidney disease, and other illnesses. Any prebiotic is beneficial since it encourages the digestive system to absorb as many vitamins and minerals as possible. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the best diet for toy poodles. Some people prefer to feed their dog wet food, while others think that dry food is better. Ultimately, it is up to the pet owner to decide what they think is best for their dog. Choosing different dog foods for toy poodles is similar to choosing human food—you want it to be high in protein with minimal fats and carbs. If you want to be more specific, look for brands that contain chicken or lamb as the main ingredient. This will ensure your toy poodles have all the necessary proteins it needs to remain healthy and strong! The average lifespan of a toy poodle is years. Some health concerns that toy poodles face in their lifetime are: Obesity.

Replacement costs of these types of goodies will range based on how quickly your Bulldog destroys their current supply. You can also order subscription packs from many reputable companies that give your dog new exploratory items every month. Since these dogs are at risk for many health complications, save as much as you can—erring on the side of caution. The best time for obedience lessons is between 6 months to a year, but every trainer varies in preference. Depending on the treatment, you could spend thousands of dollars in one swoop. Pet sitting is more personalized care but can rack up extra fees. If you want to save as much as possible while still giving your Bulldog the care they need, look at these money-saving tips. They mainly offer spay and neuter surgeries at reduced costs, but they can also provide basic care. You can make anything from dog toys to intricate beds. Many things you can make may not even require going to the store for materials—you can simply make them from existing items at home. Auto-Ship Dog Food If you buy your dog food from certain websites, many companies offer discounted prices if you place an automatic, recurring order. Of course, you can always save on English Bulldog costs by using low-cost services and making tons of at-home projects and toys for your pooch. Less - The English Bulldog is a wide, medium-sized, compact dog with short legs. The body and head are massive with extra skin on both the skull and forehead falling in folds. The cheeks extend to the sides of the eyes. The muzzle is wide, short and pug with a broad, deep stop. The black nose is broad with large nostrils. The dark eyes are deep set. The rose ears are small, thin and set high on the head. The jaws are massive, very broad, and square with hanging upper lips. The teeth should have an under bite. The tail is either straight or screwed and carried low. The short, flat coat is straight, smooth and glossy. Coat colors include red brindle and other shades of brindle, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow, piebald, pale yellow or washed-out red or white or a combination of these colors. Despite its "sourmug," the bulldog is jovial, comical and amiable, among the most docile and mellow of dogs. It is willing to please, although it retains a stubborn streak. It is very good with children. Most are moderately friendly toward strangers. Although some can be aggressive with strange dogs, the breed is quite good with other pets. These dogs were bred for sheer fighting capacity, and they were famed for latching onto their prey with an iron jaw which they refused to release—they could even suffocate opponents this way. English Bulldogs are simultaneously a symbol of British tenacity and an immensely popular American pet. These pets are arguably the most expensive dogs to own. Simply put, they are overwhelming to look at and amazing to be with. However, taking care of a Bulldog is not a cakewalk — and the dog does not come cheap. Perhaps, it is one of the reasons why Bulldogs are not for everyone. Taking care of the dog can be very expensive! Here are some reasons why the Bulldogs are considered the most expensive dogs to own. Bulldogs are not the most expensive dogs to buy, but yet costly to own The Bulldog is not the most expensive dog, but he costs a lot more than many other dog breeds. The most expensive dog ever sold is a golden-haired Tibetan Mastiff. Bulldogs do not nearly cost that much. For further comparison, here are a few more popular dog breeds and their average selling price. Bulldogs are one the most expensive dogs to buy but their cost varies depending on their color and quality. A Bulldog puppy commands such a high price because of the following factors. Pre-breeding preparations are also expensive. The average litter size of Bulldogs is 4 to 5. Bulldog breeders face a lot of issues during the breeding. Bulldogs have been tagged as an unhealthy breed because they are prone to a number of health issues. They suffer from Brachycephalic syndrome and are prone to hip dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, cystinuria, and more. Responsible Bulldog breeders ensure that their dogs have proper health screenings for genetic issues before deciding to breed them. Prior to mating their dogs or artificial insemination, good breeders also make certain that the female dog is in good condition with on-schedule vaccinations, heartworm preventative, and deworming. These accumulated expenses on preparing dogs for breeding cost breeders significantly. Bulldog stud services and artificial insemination too come with a hefty price tag. A few weeks after having the stud service or artificial insemination done, the female dog undergoes different pre-natal procedures, including x-rays and ultrasounds, to detect if she is pregnant. If the tests confirm pregnancy, the dog needs vitamins and special nutrition. Bulldogs have a high incidence of water puppies and cleft palates. Normal labor can take a toll on the mother because she cannot breathe properly. Pushing out puppies can be extremely difficult for her. Hence, it is advisable not to breed if you are not ready to handle the expenses. Taking care of newborn Bulldogs needs time, energy, and money The expenditures and care go up after the puppies are born. Breeders devote a lot of their time taking care of the newborn Bulldogs and their mother. They have to spend on supplements, high-quality food, milk replacements, and other puppy products to ensure both the mother and puppies stay healthy. For this reason, it is necessary to constantly watch the mother Bulldog and her pups. The breeder usually takes care of the puppies for at least 8 weeks. Puppies need weekly veterinary appointments to check their health and undergo deworming sessions. Most responsible breeders make sure that the puppies receive at least one shot of the core vaccines before sending them to their new families. Healthcare costs comparatively high The cost of healthcare makes Bulldogs the most expensive dogs to own. They are prone to many health issues. Ask any Bulldog owner and many of them would tell you about different health issues their pets get from time to time. The most common health issues Bulldog owners are concerned about are the yeast infection , cherry eyes , digital cysts , head tremors , and skin infection. Treatment and preventive checkups increase the cost of looking after these dogs. Cheap Bulldog vs. Most of them can cost you thousands of dollars in vet bills. Although pet stores sell Bulldogs that are of the same price range claiming that they have well-bred Bulldogs, it is still better to get puppies directly from reputable breeders. This is because most pet stores get their puppies from puppy mills, where many dogs are abused and inhumanely used as breeding machines. Aside from indirectly supporting the cruel industry, getting a puppy from these shops may cost you more money for veterinary expenses. A well-bred Bulldog may cost a lot more but they often live longer and are generally healthier. Bulldogs make wonderful companion pets although they are one of the most expensive dogs to own. So it is better to get a Bulldog puppy from a breeder who genuinely loves the breed and aims to produce healthier Bulldogs that fall within the breed standard. A good breeder aims to improve the breed by selecting good parents to get rid of genetic flaws. Leave a Reply: Leave a comment below and share your thoughts.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. I fell in love with not only their beauty, but intense loyalty and happy go-lucky attitude. After loosing my first berner to cancer at the young age of 4 and knowing the short life span of the breed, I started exploring dogs with the beauty of the berner but life span of a mix breed. That's when I came upon the Bernedoodle. Not only do they not shed or very minimally , they come in a range of sizes for those not wanting a giant breed. The are also perfect for people with allergies and have a lifespan of years. Twice the length of the berner! Since bernedoodles are a hybrid, they are only likely to inherit a health problem common to both the poodle and bernese. Genetic testing greatly reduces the risk of many diseases. This is why all of our dogs are health tested and do not join our breeding program if they have not been. We hope you enjoy our website and look forward to providing you with your new family member! We are a small Bernedoodle breeder located in Southwest Ohio. We strive to produce healthy, happy, long-living puppies with fantastic temperaments. Our dogs are health tested and make wonderful family pets. We are more than happy to answer your questions and concerns. Step 1: Find Your Puppy Whenever we have a new litter ready to adopt, we post each puppy here on our website as well as our Facebook page. Step 2: Reserve Your Puppy Once you find the perfect pup you can reserve it right here on our website. You can even choose a delivery option during the reservation if you would like us to provide delivery to your doorstep. This include vet checks, provideing all the paperwork your vet will need including vaccination records and out-of-state travel papers. Our goal is to make the whole process easy and smooth for you. Safe Delivery of Your Puppy We can deliver your puppy safe and sound right to your door anywhere in the continental US with our puppy delivery service! Your puppy will be delivered safely by puppy bus or car to make things convenient for you and your puppy. We offer hand delivery of your puppy right to your door anywhere in the continental US! Call or text us at What you get with every puppy! Our goal is not only to provide you with a high-quality puppy, but to give you everything you need to make the transition for your new puppy as smoothly as possible! We send along a favorite toy that your puppy loves. Puppy microchip To protect your puppy from being lost or stolen, your puppy will receive a custom microchip… Shot record We always have your puppy up to date with all shots and vet visits. Genetic Guarantee Each puppy comes with a 1 year genetic guarantee that covers any genetic issues that may occur. We love him so much. You can tell The Bernedoodles socialize their puppies from a young age. He loves… Courtney E I am beyond pleased with the baby we brought home. He is absolutely the sweetest and smartest puppy we have ever had! He has been sleeping in his kennel with no concerns since second day… Yana Zolotov Here is our sweet boy Henry Don now 5 months. He is so sweet and the best dog, so smart, and did amazing with potty training and kennel training. Elton was super communicative, and we had a seamless transition having our puppy delivered to us in Oregon. Enzo kudy is almost 8 months! He is a super dog! Now 20 poundsWe love him! Thanks again! By partnering with a best-in-class puppy nanny delivery service, we are able to deliver a happy and healthy Mini-Bernedoodle puppy directly to you. Let's start a conversation about finding the perfect furry friend. Available Mini Bernedoodle Puppies Sign up to be Notified of New Litters Please click the button below to sign up to ur notification list so you will be one of the first to know! Get Notifications We offer a 1-year genetic health guarantee on all of our puppies. You can see the details on our Policies page. We are happy to provide references and share our experience and suggestions. We make it a point to place our puppies with families that are a good fit for everyone. If you have any questions, please Contact Us. Nationwide Shipping Available Customer Testimonials Hello Leroy, I just want to say thank you since my puppies have come to fill our family with love and of course we also give them a lot of love. Hello Mr. Raber, This is Vicki K. We love, love, love our puppies! Both girls are doing just wonderfully! We have taken training classes together and they are both very smart in addition to being so beautiful! We attract a lot of attention when we go places together! Bella weighs 28 pounds and she is such a joy and a blessing. She was incredibly easy to house train. Thank you so much for letting us be her forever home! I am attaching a few pictures of Bella. You and your family have a wonderful and blessed Christmas!! Hi Leroy. I have been meaning to do this for a while, but with holidays, etc… Sending along pics of Layla. The best temperament, loving…pretty much house trained herself via the doggie door. Not perfect, but close! When I have him out in public, people create such a fuss about him because they think he is so cute! Cassie H. Murfee is settling in nicely. He has learned to navigate our backyard steps, both up and down. He is a very vocal little guy-definitely makes his wants known, especially early in the morning. Thanks for allowing us to give him his forever home. Lois J. He has been easy to train and is incredibly social! Thank you. Joshua R. If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. But did you know that not all of them strive for the same quality? Ethical Bernedoodle breeders only produce new litters from dogs that have passed health screening with flying colors. Ethical breeders also offer health guarantees that are usually applicable for either one or two years from adoption. Additionally, you can also ask around your friends and family members in case any of them have recently adopted a Bernedoodle in your area. Bernedoodle Buddies Located on a beautiful farm right outside of Columbus, Bernedoodle Buddies has standard-sized Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Ohio. Their goal is to breed puppies for health and temperament and their focus is on all sorts of enrichment activities and early learning to give their pups a solid foundation. As a family breeder, they raise all of their puppies in their home. Moreover, this exceptional breeder follows the Puppy Culture and Badass Breeder programs. They introduce the puppies to all sorts of sights and sounds, potty training, crate training, clicker training, basic manners, and even car rides and grooming. In addition to that, they also utilize the Early Neurological Stimulation method ENS that helps the puppies get used to regular body handling and human interaction from an early age. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Their breeding dogs are all fully health tested and some of them are also registered with the AKC.

Jean-Francois: How much is a purebred German Shepherd puppy without papers worth? I'm guessing it's a rip-off. Our nonpaper German shepherd just had 12, her 1st litter of no papers German shepherd pups. You can visually see the traits. I do suggest making sure vaccinations are given before buying the puppy. Answer by JTP Actually, that is a great price! I would even say that's pretty cheap, especially since it's a German Shepherd. Answer by SuperGirl It doesn't matter if the parents have papers. Parents with papers should have puppies that have papers as well. I'm also guessing mom and dad don't really have papers either, because papers come to puppies with papered parents. Answer by Kayleigh Let me explain what happened to us. I was young at the time and didn't realize what "limited" rights were. This means the woman who sold me my puppy would not give me the right to register my purebred GSD as a purebred GSD unless I got her spayed. We bought her with the intention of eventually breeding and keeping some puppies for ourselves but also selling a few. I would be breeding my dog with a purebred GSD who is registered, but since I cannot register my dog due to this lady's way of giving me limited rights I would not be able to register the pups either. She is our rescue dog. I got a blood test done that shows she is a purebred German Shepherd, but there is no way of knowing whether she was registered or not. We are going to breed her with one of my friend's purebred German Shepherd males. I was thinking of selling the puppies for around , which is about 1, dollars cheaper than what they are selling registered puppies for in this area. Ready for new homes: August 11, .Ready for new homes: September .Ready for new homes: October .Ready for new homes: November .Ready for new homes: December .Ready for new homes: June .GSDs are a versatile and highly intelligent breed capable of mastering complex obedience commands. Their intelligent versatility is just one of many unique factors that put GSDs head and shoulders above most other breeds in the canine world. The average GSD can grow to a shoulder height as high as 26 inches and are capable of equal parts grace and power. Because of this incredible mixture of intelligence, grace, and strength, they are the favorite breed of security experts from local K-9 police departments to every branch of the military across many different nations. GSDs are also capable of mastering the highest levels of show dog training making them among the most popular breeds of championship show dog organizations. There are plenty of reasons why German Shepherds have long been thought of as canine royalty. Select your new pup from one of our available litters and make your reservation with us. No problem. You can contact us at or or email us at vomragnar gmail. Our trainers can also train your pup for basic obedience, advanced obedience, and protection or security work. Your puppy will learn excellent manners and communication skills that will provide you with many years of a rich, full relationship with your German Shepherd. Design Please beware of scams and frauds! There are scams out there who use our brand. Their website may look exact the same since they duplicate our website or their domains look similar. Our website is vomragnar. Our brand name is patented. We are licensed breeders in Illinois. Please do not trust scammers and beware. Want to see our puppies available for sale? Conclusion 1. That said there are additional benefits to getting a DNA test for your pup and these tests are out there and readily available. All you need to do is purchase a kit online. Although the kit will likely come with two swabs, each kit is only meant to test a sample from one dog. These kits usually include sealable plastic bags to place the swabs in and a pre-paid return box or envelope. When we think of the typical German Shepherd, we think of tan coloring with black facial and saddle markings. The coat is typically dense and short and lies close to the body. This more typical look is only one of many of the purebred German Shepherd. A purebred German Shepherd can have three different varieties of coats, which are the double coat, the plush coat, and the long-haired coat. The double coat is considered the standard of the German Shepherd coats, although many German Shepherds that are kept as family pets have a long-haired coat. Regardless, German Shepherds shed regularly throughout the year and require regular brushing and grooming. While the typical and often preferred coloring of the German Shepherd is tan and black, look for other variants in coloring. The next most common coloring of the German Shepherd is pure black, along with black and cream, black and red, black and silver, bi-color, blue, gray, liver, sable and white. Other Physical Characteristics There is a multitude of other physical characteristics that immediately makes a purebred German Shepherd stand apart from other dogs. These include: Distinct, pointed ears. This means your German Shepherd is going through the puberty stage, where they are teething as well as growing and developing cartilage in their ears. Along with the distinctly pointed ears comes the distinct German Shepherd head tilt which fans of this breed also tend to adore. A strong, proportioned build. Part of the reason the German Shepherd makes an excellent working dog is due to its strong, tall build. A typical German Shepherd is up to 26 inches tall and weighs somewhere between 77 and 85 pounds. A typical German Shepherd puppy weighs up to 10 pounds in the first month and reaches close to 60 pounds by the time they are six months old. A full, long, bushy tail. This is another cherished physical feature of the German Shepherd. When the German Shepherd is resting, their bushy tail tends to hang low to the ground. Behavioral Characteristics Putting aside their physical features, German Shepherds are largely known for certain behavioral characteristics — both positive and negative. These behavioral characteristics include: A high energy level. German Shepherds need a ton of daily exercise and preferably a backyard to let off some steam in-between walks. A strong sense of loyalty. They can be extremely protective of their families if they feel threatened which means that German Shepherds may not necessarily be the best choice for someone with no experience with dogs. A high level of intelligence. German Shepherds are extremely smart, making them excellent working dogs. You often see German Shepherds doing important jobs like assisting police in drug-sniffing and security and aiding in search and rescue. German Shepherds benefit from training and obedience classes which also help keep your dog stimulated and entertained. A sense of possession. As previously mentioned, German Shepherds are extremely protective and loyal dogs, especially when it comes to their families. If your family is looking for a guard dog, a German Shepherd is definitely an excellent option. Due to their sense of possession, German Shepherds are also great dogs for herding sheep. Your German Shepherd may be fantastic with you and your kids but act standoffish or protective around other adults or children. This is where additional training is necessary to make sure that your German Shepherd is not acting unnecessarily aggressive or territorial. Asking Questions The simplest way to identify a German Shepherd? Ask questions! There are a variety of different sources you can ask about the German Shepherd, including: Talking with a breeder. Find a reputable German Shepherd breeder and ask as many questions as you can about the German Shepherd. Unfortunately, a breeder may not be completely forthcoming about negative information so really dig deep about the breeder before purchasing your German Shepherd puppy. Talking with a German Shepherd owner. Speak with someone that you know has a German Shepherd and ask questions. That said, exercise caution when doing so as the German Shepherd may not be overly accepting of a stranger approaching their owner. Talking with a veterinarian. Veterinarians can provide all kinds of valuable information about German Shepherds. If you already have a dog that you believe to be a German Shepherd but are unsure, ask your veterinarian to give you their opinion on whether they believe the dog to be so. Downloading an app. You are now able to download a dog breed identification app to identify a large variety of dog breeds. Additional Identifying Factors An additional identifying factor is unfortunately the genetic health concerns that come along with German Shepherds. German Shepherds are prone to certain health conditions, some more so than other breeds. These health conditions include degenerative myelopathy and hip and elbow dysplasia. Ask your vet about their experience in regards to German Shepherds and whether or not they think this breed would be a good fit for you. Conclusion German Shepherd or not, there are so many wonderful breeds of dogs out there that have an incredible amount to offer you and your family. Mary Nielsen I grew up in a household that was filled with animals. I believe that my fate as a dog-loving person was sealed in early childhood since my parents owned several dogs of varying sizes and breeds. As a life-long puppy lover, I know a thing or two about dogs and how to go about caring for them in the best way possible. Along with my husband, Dave, I run MySweetPuppy for like-minded dog lovers who want to have a single, clear, and reliable information source about anything and everything related to dogs and their well-being. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Sound in mind and body, strong, functional, intelligent, trainable, courageous, and resilient. These are the natural qualities that can only be realized through the incredible genetics of purebred German Shepherds. We only import the best-of-the-best. Certified champions straight from Germany! Due to his home being burglarized in , Wayne decided to train dogs in tracking, obedience, and protection. His untrained Staffordshire Bullterrier was unable to protect his home and he then decided to obtain a Rottweiler for protection. Wayne continued to train Rottweilers up until the early 90s where he purchased his first German Shepherd. He was raised along side German Shepherds which had a huge impact toward his love and respect for the breed. At Kraftwerk K9, we honor the history of the German Shepherd. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting our Available Dog page!

Tunnel Dash The Weaving Wonder Games for German Shepherds can include everyday objects that you can find around your house and are fun activities that give your German Shepherd mental stimulation and exercise. Try a few of these activities for German Shepherds and see which ones your dog loves! Hide-and-Seek Treats Hiding their food helps your dog use their noses to explore. Mental stimulation with a food hide-and-seek game keeps your dog sharp by using their noses source. You can use this game indoors or out in your yard or garden. Now hide a few pieces around the house or yard while they watch, and encourage them to find the food. German Shepherds have a keen sense of smell, and many learn to track. Puppy Puzzles This German Shepherd activity teaches your dog to use their nose and brain together. Food puzzles are activities that keep your dog working for their reward. Use this stimulating mind game to introduce them to puzzles. Next, place their food in the puzzle. Show them how to find food and encourage them to find the food on their own. If you want to feed your dog the right foods, then read this list of healthy, tasty treats for German Shepherds. Break your treats into small pieces, no larger than the size of your pinkie nail to keep their nutrition in check. The Special Delivery activity uses common mailing items as hiding places for their treats. Use a clean box that came in the mail. Place pieces of kibble or treats inside the brown paper wrap. Squish the brown paper or paper towels together to wrap around the kibble. Encourage your dog or puppy to look for their food. When they are finished, refill the brown paper packaging or paper towel balls and start again. Another simple and easy game to put together is a bottle treat dispenser. The bottle slides and moves on the floor to make the game more interesting for both puppies and adults. And, of course, supervise your German Shepherd during games at all times. Save a large water bottle. Make sure it is clean and dry. Let your dog turn, paw, and shake the bottle so the kibble falls out. Repeat when empty to finish their meal. Replace the bottles regularly as they become dirty or worn. The larger the opening, the easier the food will fall out. Brain Training for Dogs Brain Training your German Shepherd keeps them mentally stimulated and physically engaged, ensuring they have a pawsome time! Brain training your German Shepherd is an activity that increases their mental stimulation and is fun for both you and your dog! You can use brain training to help teach your German Shepherd manners and basic obedience at the same time. But… You can read more on my helpful review: Brain Training for Dogs Review to learn all about this engaging playtime program. Setup this game by doing this: Place a few bits of their food or treats in the muffin tins and a ball over the top to cover the cups. You can leave some muffin tins without a tennis ball to make the game easier to start or for puppies learning about brain games. When your dog is finished, refill the muffin tins. To make the game interesting, leave some tins without food, but still cover the compartment with a tennis ball. This makes your dog use his nose more and gives them a surprise when they find the food in some compartments but not in others. Frozen Kong Delight By far, my German Shepherd enjoys this mental exercise the best, as the food seems to last longer and keep her quiet. Get out your trusty, indestructible German Shepherd-proof Kong toy. Place a mixture of moistened kibble in the center. I like to add a few spoonfuls of unflavored Greek yogurt mixed into the food for extra encouragement. Set this in the freezer for a few hours to stiffen up. When frozen, give it to your dog for a tasty mealtime surprise! If you buy a few Kongs, you can keep them in your freezer for times when you want or need to keep your German Shepherd busy and entertained. Trust me, the Kong toys make for engaging playtime ideas for German Shepherds and can stand up to their rough play. Tupperware Surprise These old plastic food storage containers make useful indoor activities for your German Shepherd. Put them to use with this game. Place several pieces of plastic food storage containers upside down, without their lids, over a handful of kibble. You can put the food storage containers all in one room or place them in multiple rooms for a seek-and-find activity. Encourage your dog to go find the kibble, and help them find the first few to get them started. They must figure out how to turn the container over with their paws or nose, which is tricky for some dogs, especially puppies. Use this mental exercise inside or outside, depending on the weather. This game also uses empty cardboard tubes from paper towels or toilet paper. Place their kibble on brown shipping or craft paper, or even a clean paper towel. Next, wrap the kibble up securely and place the wrapped kibble inside the cardboard tubes. Encourage your dog to explore the tubes. You can see my German Shepherd enjoying the game of finding treats in cardboard tubes. As simple as this sounds, the activity keeps my German Shepherd busy as she delicately removes the kibble from the boxes or toilet roll tubes filled with kibble and paper. No worries. This game really gets an active Shepherd moving and keeps them occupied! Start slowly and toss one ball away from you. While your dog goes to chase that ball, get another ball toy ready in your hand. As they return the first ball, toss the second ball across the grass for them to have another sprint. Only play a handful of rounds, and then let your dog have a rest and some water to avoid them overheating. Instead, use these summer activities to exercise your German Shepherd in the heat. Place their kibble meal or another dry treat inside the toy to help provide a challenge to their minds and bodies. As your dog chases the toy around and works to get their reward, they burn calories and have to use their brain power to work the food loose. You can wash this treat dispensing toy, so if your dog is a first-class drooler, you can easily clean their germs away. This is a mentally-stimulating game for an indoor German Shepherd activity for a puppy or even a bored German Shepherd. Tunnel Dash Collapsible tunnels can make for an exciting and fun backyard activity. Owners of our high-energy breed will appreciate teaching their dog both indoor agility to challenge their minds and outdoor agility to challenge their minds and use their energy! You may have to entice your dog through the tunnel by placing them at one end and having them wait while you walk to the other. But German Shepherds love this type of stimulation and are expert tunnel runners! The Weaving Wonder From German Shepherd puppies to seniors, almost every dog enjoys learning how to become a weaving wonder! If your dog enjoys high-energy activities, then add to your agility set by using these easy-to-set up weave poles. Your athletic Shepherd will love to use their brains and their agility to figure out the best way to quickly maneuver through the weave poles. Begin by walking ahead of your dog through the weave poles and have them follow you. Reward them frequently in between poles in the beginning. When they make it to the end, celebrate and reward them again. Eventually, have your GSD make more turns of the poles before the reward. Learn all about the right ways to exercise your German Shepherd for complete health and fitness. Your dog or puppy has many senses they need to use daily. They can see, hear, touch, smell, and think. Many dogs living in our modern, busy lives lack mental stimulation. In the wild, your dog would work alongside their pack or alone to track down prey using their senses. They would then plan an attack, using their mental abilities. Using all these senses during play helps your dog gain confidence in themselves and in their abilities. New experiences ignite portions of their brains to keep them engaged in their environments. An engaged dog is a happy, better-behaved dog! Include 2 or 3 new activities for your German Shepherd a week to begin. You ready for more? From nutrition tips to exercise tricks, this guide has it all. Trust me, your German Shepherd will be wagging their tail with joy! So, what are you waiting for? Grab your free guide now and continue fun adventures and activities with your German Shepherd! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Due to the hectic lifestyles that many of us lead today, German Shepherds might spend many hours alone at home every day. Here are some of my favorite ideas. Give them the King of toys — the Kong. Kong toys not only help calm your dog but, when frozen, can keep your German Shepherd busy for a long time. Kongs are great for hiding treats or serving their daily meal and keeping them busy. Stuff the Kong with natural peanut butter, their favorite dog-safe foods, special treats, or even fill with a mixture of all. Most German Shepherds will stay happily busy working for their food. And, a properly stuffed and frozen Kong could take a lot of time for your dog to release all their tasty reward. Is it summertime and you need to help them beat the heat? Kong to the rescue for busy-time and summer fun! Not only can the Kong toy itself be filled and frozen, but for an extra treat fill a freezer-safe plastic container with low-sodium broth and water and drop your food-filled Kong inside the mixture. Leave it to freeze overnight. Then, take the toy and your dog to a safe spot where they can enjoy licking and chewing their giant-size pupsicle! Do you have a teething German Shepherd puppy to keep busy? Place their soaked kibble in the Kong and freeze for them to soothe their inflamed gums and aching jaws while they chew and squeeze away the pain. Want to know the right size Kong for your dog and how to use the toy to help solve and prevent behavior problems? Then read all about Kong toys for German Shepherds. Show them interesting sights and sounds. Some Shepherds enjoy watching the sights and sounds of the world going by. Others will bark at leaves falling. Here are a few stations that dogs generally enjoy: Animal Planet Discovery Channel National Geographic There are even YouTube channels that cater especially to dogs at home that need some visual and auditory stimulation. While watching these videos your German Shepherd can see squirrels, cats, birds, other dogs, and nature scenes — all while hearing the sounds of the animals along with calming music. If you know your dog gets upset hearing other dogs or animals, then look for calming music channels that play soothing sounds and tunes to comfort anxious dogs. Provide a search and sniff scavenger hunt. Did you know that sniffing helps to calm dogs and provides needed mental stimulation to keep their minds occupied source? Encourage your dog to hunt for her meals by hiding small piles of her kibble around your house in safe, easy-to-reach areas so she has to use her nose to find them. Scatter a couple of handfuls of kibble in the places where your dog hangs out during the day before you leave for the day or when you want to keep her entertained. You determine how easy or difficult you want the game to be depending on where you decide to hide the treats. At first, you might need to leave the food in more open areas as your dog learns to play and sniff for their treasure. Easy Scavenger Hunt larger groups of kibble placed in the open smaller groups of food placed under safe items groups of treats together next to items, but not hidden a kibble trail that leads your dog on a sniffari indoors You can make the Scavenger Hunt more difficult as your dog learns the game. You can also hide one of her meals in her Kong puzzle toy right before you leave home. This prompts her to associate you leaving for the day with a positive — as opposed to a negative — emotion and can help lessen the fear of being alone for her. Play a classic game of tug-of-war. Tug can help build confidence in German Shepherds when played correctly. All you need for this old-school game is a tough rope toy and some space to move around safely. To entice your German Shepherd to grab the rope, wiggle it like a snake, let her take hold of it, and gently begin tugging the rope. While your dog sinks their teeth and puts her bodyweight into the pull you get a bit of an upper-body and cardio workout. Plus, did you know that cotton tug ropes provide your German Shepherd the opportunity to easily help clean their teeth? In fact, research shows that playing tug with your dog is much more complex. In one study dogs handicapped themselves i. Tug, when played correctly and with rules, can build confidence in German Shepherds and help teach them more about your owner-dow relationship. Teach your dog a new trick. When was the last time you taught your German Shepherd a fun trick? I bet your brilliant German Shepherd would love to keep entertained by learning a new trick or obedience command. You can pick a hard trick that takes a while to learn or an easy trick that your dog might quickly pick up on. Or aim higher by working on naming all of her toys in her toy box so she can get them by name when you ask. Either way… Your German Shepherd is capable of learning almost anything that you take the time and patience to train. Remember, your German Shepherd is so smart for a reason. Whether you have a German Shepherd puppy or a full-grown dog, this is super fun to try! Even better… 6. Include plenty of play with their friends. Having doggie friends is essential for German Shepherds, especially puppies. Sometimes your German Shepherd just needs to play with other dogs and socialize. You can schedule playdates with other well-behaved dogs with your friends and family for some puppy entertainment. Many doggy daycares will provide discounts if you purchase multiple play days to keep the price reasonable and provide your German Shepherd with more opportunities for entertainment. There are separate play sections for puppies and larger, adult dogs, so your dog is matched to their appropriate playgroup. Never underestimate the value of a healthy play session to keep your German Shepherd entertained. Sneak in a new toy. Sneaking in a new toy for your German Shepherd can keep them entertained as they enjoy the surprise. Do you have a dog that loves to play with toys? Then help keep them busy by sneaking in a new toy to spark their interest and keep their self-directed play fun. Just think of how excited your German Shepherd will get when they sniff out their new toy! Also, rotate her toys every week or so to heighten the excitement of playing with her toys. Simply put away a few of the usual toys and sneak in another to replace the missing old toys. Then, rotate them again for a fresh perspective! Teach them how to stay calm. Even busy German Shepherds need to calm down to recharge and relax. Teaching a German Shepherd how to calm themselves and channel their energy into resting and relaxing is actually difficult. If your German Shepherd becomes nervous, anxious, or overactive when you leave home, try these ideas to help comfort them, especially puppies. Give a treat designed to encourage rest and relaxation, like these calming chicken and hemp chews. Use a dog pheromone diffuser. Use a dog-appeasing pheromone diffuser if you think your absence causes anxiety in your German Shepherd. Adaptil makes a calming dog diffuser for this specific purpose that is shown to lessen anxiety symptoms and promote calm. The pheromone released by the diffuser is similar to the one that lactating mother dogs emit to calm their newborn puppies when feeding. So, the pheromone is familiar to your German Shepherd and creates a sense of relaxation and calm. Place the diffuser in a room your dog generally uses or spends most of her time in. These calming tools are especially helpful to German Shepherd puppies who might be overwhelmed in their new home and miss their littermates and mother. Include a mid-day walk. Dog walking services are provided in many cities and towns to help you. The typical dog walking schedule for many working owners is in the morning and evening. But the German Shepherd Dog is a high-energy breed and will benefit from a mid-day walk to add some entertainment to their day. Many reputable pet care facilities include a dog walking service and will walk your German Shepherd with other dogs that are similar in personality if you like. I highly recommend that you also get a GPS tracker for your German Shepherd if you have a dog walker. Give remote surprise check-ins. Checking in on your mischievous German Shepherd puppy has never been easier with remote cameras. With all the modern pet technology today you might be overlooking how to keep a German Shepherd busy remotely. Remote cameras are a great way to keep your German Shepherd occupied and surprised. How amazing is that for modern pet technology? Each puzzle takes a combination of reasoning, persistence, and paw dexterity to work out. The very act of leaving a German Shepherd alone for 8 hours or more a day and then being too tired to spend time with them in productive ways is the reason for most of the behavioral problems they develop. How would you feel if you were left at home all day, every day, with no one to talk to, no television to watch, no books to enjoy, no work to do, and no opportunity to exercise? It would be awful! Read this post on how to exhaust a German Shepherd to reduce boredom to learn more about what you can do to help keep boredom at bay. Playing with your German Shepherd enriches your relationship with her on a unique level. Together, the two of you will have a distinctive interaction during your play sessions. This is vital information because play helps build a strong relationship foundation. While some people believe that German Shepherds are rough, tough, working breeds they genuinely have a playful nature and seek out the companionship of play with their special person. German Shepherds seek out play with those they feel close to and are comfortable with. Although there are many different ideas to entertain your dog, every dog is unique and has certain preferences. They tend to develop behavior issues when secluded from their family and can become depressed, act out for attention, and develop other health conditions due to the stress of spending too much time alone. When you understand how to keep a German Shepherd busy and entertained both of your days will go by more smoothly. Remember… The time you put into your German Shepherd creates an unbreakable bond. Catherine Krasavin, BS Hons. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. For the most part, you let the puppy decide his own activities at this stage. Your puppy, at this tender age, does not need exercise; he needs activity. Indoor play consists of informal activities in which you educate your German Shepherd to avoid dangerous behavior while satisfying his need to be active. At this stage, it is more about mental activity games and basic training as opposed to physical activity. This nifty little toy is excellent for young pups. Here are some low-impact games that are appropriate for a German Shepherd puppy at 8 weeks of age: Puppy the Explorer Let your GSD explore the indoors while keeping a close eye on him. This also presents an excellent opportunity to teach him to follow you. You must do this organically. Wait for him to get in his explorer mode and start walking beside him. Remember not to exceed a period of 10 minutes of exercise in the second month and stop whenever your pup shows signs of being tired. The minute mark is the maximum duration, not the minimum. Initially, your puppy will get tired after a few minutes of walking around and exploring. In each subsequent week, he will be engaged for a few more minutes. You might need to use jazz hands to get his curiosity. Once your pup starts following your palm with his head, simply tap his nose and hug him. At this point, you might be tempted to start moving your arm out of his reach to prolong the game. Follow the Wiggling Toy This is the ideal transition exercise that I would start around the tenth week of indoor play. For this, I recommend the Pacific Pups Rope Toys Set from Amazon, not just because it is budget-friendly but because you can use toys of different sizes as your German Shepherd puppy continues to grow. Once you have him sitting close to you, introduce the rope toy and place it on the floor with your hand holding onto one end. Your job then is to make sure he takes at least four steps before he catches the rope toy. Again, this is a high-engagement, low-impact exercise that builds up the foundation for medium-impact activities later on. Jaw and Bodyweight Exercises Recommended age: 3 — 4 months Maximum duration: minutes per day, twice a day Risk factor: low Things to avoid: sprints Your German Shepherd puppy is now three months old; he is building on his training according to the standard puppy training methods, and you can start to interact with him more physically. Still, his growth plates remain open, and you still need to avoid exercises that strain the joints, especially ones located around long bones like limbs. At the same time, your German Shepherd has more energy and may want to exercise more than is good for him. As a result, your role has shifted. Here, instead of letting your puppy have the toy once he follows it and grabs hold of it, you play a small tug of war with him. If your GSD is used to getting the toy after following it, he may get too defensive when you tug it. I recommended the toy set for this reason precisely. The final thing worth remembering about this game is that you always lose! You place the rope toy on the ground and let your German Shepherd puppy follow it as you move it around. Once he grabs hold of it, you use your arm strength to keep it in place. Do not try to pull it too hard. It is also essential that you gradually move up the tug of war in time and position. Gradually you can move the tug toy slightly above the ground. Throughout this, make sure your dog is on a leash because you do not want to encourage grabbing and dashing. Ultimately, you have to let your puppy win! As soon as you release the toy, he gets to have it for a while. This is also the best stage to train him to release objects on command. Make sure your GSD is on a long leash before you start this activity. Associating running with playtime is risky. A long loose leash allows you to bring him back to you gently. Be prepared to spend a lot of time negotiating with your GSD. I suggest playing tug before this because it builds trust. When you roll the ball on the floor, your puppy will get it. You cannot expect him to bring the toy to you. You simply tug the leash gently and bring him close to you. Then, you hold the ball in place. You should not pull it away. That will only cause your German Shepherd to bite down on it harder. When you have it firmly in place, your dog will try to wrestle it free but will eventually let the ball go. You can encourage this by just talking to him in a reassuring tone and using training treats. As soon as he lets go of the ball, put it on the ground and roll it. As GSDs take pleasure in high-engagement activities, the activity itself becomes a reward. In my experience, this will always be a mixed bag. Some dogs never stop giving pushback at the retrieval stage, while others let go of the ball the moment you extend your arm toward it. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. Some owners have large yards and several family members that can help keep the dog busy, but it can be a struggle to keep finding something to do if there are only one or two people in your household. If this sounds like your situation, keep reading while we list several activities you can do with your German Shepherd to keep it happy and well behaved. Fetch Frisbee, ball, throwing toy Plenty of room Fetch is the most basic dog game that almost everyone knows. To play this game, all you need is a Frisbee, ball, or any toy that you can throw so your dog can chase it and bring it back. Balls and Frisbees work well because you can get a good distance with them, which will keep the dog more active. These toys can cause your dog to expend a large amount of energy in a short amount of time without you needing to put in a lot of effort. There are even accessories you can purchase to help you throw the ball further with less effort. The downside to this game is that you need a lot of room for the dog to run. To play this game, you only require a piece of rope with knots in it so you and the dog can get a grip. Many commercial ropes will work perfectly, and there are many varieties available, so you can find one that is comfortable to use. To play, let the dog grab one end with its teeth, and you take the other. It will also help your dog expend energy quickly, especially if you are in good health, and can make the dog work harder to keep the rope. It only requires a fraction of the space fetch does, but it does require considerable strength to play against a full-grown German Shepherd for more than a few minutes. Obstacle Training Obstacles Plenty of room Obstacle training can be a lot of fun for you and your dog. It will help your pet burn off excess energy quickly and sharpen your skills as a trainer. To play obstacle training, you will need plenty of room to set up obstacles. The obstacles can be anything, but we recommend starting with something simple like a piece of wood or a chair. Put the obstacle between you and the dog and call it toward you. If it jumps the barrier, give it a treat and try again. The downside to obstacle training is that it will go a lot easier for someone with experience training, and it can take up a lot of room in your yard if there are several obstacles. Wrestling Strength As strange as it may seem, wrestling is one of the best ways to bond with your German Shepherd because few other activities cause you to be in such close proximity with your attention focused on each other. The dog will climb all over you to try to get the ball, and you can flip your pup over gently to get the belly which will get it all riled up. It has a long pole that you hold. Attached to the pole is a long string that has a toy tied at the end. The toy usually squeaks, and you use it almost like a fishing pole to dangle the toy in front of the dog to get it to chase it. Our dogs get a lot of enjoyment from the Flirt Pole , and the only downside is that the dog chews them, so you will need to replace them every few weeks. Mind Games for German Shepherds 6. To get started, hide a treat in plain sight, then let your dog see you hide another behind a wall. Try a few more easy hides, and when your dog starts to catch on, you can make them a little more difficult. The easiest way to play this game is to wait until your dog is out of sight and then call them but quickly run and hide before they get there. When the dog arrives, they will be confused and begin to search for you and will usually continue looking until they find you. As the dog catches on, they will begin to check past hiding spots first, so you will need to be clever. Call your dog over and watch as they turn them over looking for the treat. As they get more skilled, they will find the treat faster, so you can add even more cups. Ring Stack Ring stacking toy If you have children or know someone that does, there is a good chance that you are familiar with the ring stacking toys for babies. You can also use these toys with your German Shepherd and learn to stack the rings in the right order with a little patience. The best way to play is to start with only a few rings and add more as your dog catches on. After some time, put the item on the floor and instruct your dog to fetch it. After several months, you will be amazed at how many items your dog knows by name. Some are extremely easy and only require the dog to step on a lever, while others are quite complex, requiring multiple steps to unlock the treat. It burns off excess energy extremely fast and helps keep your dog in top shape. The other games are all fun, but they take longer and require a bigger commitment of your time. Luckily, you can play as many games as you want, so you can play fetch every day and do some wrestling on your days off work. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this list and found the answers you need. If we have helped you keep your dog entertained, please share these eleven best games to play with your German Shepherd on Facebook and Twitter. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement. Puppies German Shepherd puppies are incredibly playful. So how do you play with a German Shepherd puppy? This article will examine the best way to play and entertain your German Shepherd puppy, providing example games to play and activities to do. The best way to play with a German Shepherd puppy is through short bursts of low-impact physical activity. This will keep their growing bones and joints safe from injury and malformation. Additionally, play games that sharpen their motors skills and hone their natural abilities. All dogs have a maximum tolerance for exercise, and playtime counts towards that limit. Most will play for as long as you allow them. Thus, you need to pay attention and keep them from overexertion, especially during activities that involve plenty of physical movement. In general, young dogs should have two sessions of exercise per day where each session is about 5 minutes per month of age. So, a German Shepherd puppy of around 2 months old should only get 10 minutes of playtime twice a day while a 6-month-old pup can tolerate two minute sessions. By the time your GSD is a year old, they should be able to tolerate hour-long sessions of play or exercise. Keep in mind, however, that these are general guidelines. You need to keep an eye on your dog and determine their own tolerance to avoid serious consequences like overheating and overexertion. Like children, individual dogs have different preferences. Use play as a means to strengthen their motor skills, nurture their sense of curiosity, and build their confidence. The best toys for young German Shepherds are interactive ones that stimulate their senses. Especially exciting are treat dispensers and squeaky toys while teething toys provide tons of comfort. They also love balls that they can grasp and chase after. They also love playing with people and other animals. Doing this often will help prove each of these commands and ensure they will obey no matter the situation. Have fun with the Obedience Shuffle by randomly asking for each command and rewarding your dog every time they obey. Make it increasingly difficult for them by adding distractions in between. Hide-and-Seek Hide-and-Seek is an excellent game to play with your German Shepherd puppy because it requires some concentration, sniffing, and running. It also primes them to think of you as the best reward. To play this, ask your dog to stay while you hide. Release them from their stay position and respond with excitement and praises when they find you. Hide in easy-to-find spots at first and find more difficult hiding places as your pup picks up on the object of the game. You can start by keeping your pup in a down position as they watch you hide the treats. When they understand the point of the game, you can make it more challenging by keeping them in another room and letting them in only when all the treats are hidden. It also requires very little space and involves more concentration and nose work. To play the shell game, take 3 cups and some treats, and sit across from your dog. Place the cups upside down on the floor and keep a treat under only one. Shuffle the cups before arranging them in a row. Turn over the first one your pup touches. If they get the right one, let them have the treat. If not, re-shuffle the cups and play again. Find-and-Retrieve Find-and-Retrieve is not just a game of obedience and concentration. This game involves teaching your dog the proper names of things, finding those things on command, and handing them over to you. To play this game, start by teaching your dog the name of one toy. Then, make the game more difficult by asking them to retrieve the ball from other places. Here are other things you can do to interact with your puppy, strengthen your bond, and help them to develop physically, mentally, and emotionally: Walking Walking can be a good way for your GSD pup to learn more about the world outside of your home. Allow young pups to walk at their own pace and try not to be too harsh on the lead. Let them stop to sniff and interact with whatever they might find interesting. This will form a huge part of their socialization. German Shepherds typically like water if they are exposed to it and learn how fun it can be. Swimming is also an excellent way to have fun with your growing dog since it is easy on the bones and joints. Being in water will also help strengthen muscles for even better skeletal development. Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys for dogs are not only excellent for mental stimulation but also for independent play. Depending on the toy, it could also help prime your German Shepherd for nose work, combat boredom, and control their impulses. They can compete in these companion sports as early as 6 months old or you can simply join local clubs to engage in these activities for fun. This helps avoid issues like hip and elbow dysplasia in the future. Until your German Shepherd has developed into adulthood, you should generally avoid activities that involve plenty of jumping. Staircases and other steep angles are safe enough for regular use but not as a means to exercise. Additionally, when running or walking, opt for turf and soil rather than concrete. Final Thoughts Discovering the best ways to play with your German Shepherd puppy will help you develop a strong bond and learn to communicate with one another. These games will also help stimulate their intellect and develop a love for learning. Learning how to discipline your GSD puppy correctly will teach them to respect your leadership and stay on their best behavior.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. This cancer has a very grave prognosis. Nutritional Dilated Cardiomyopathy Nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy nutritional DCM is a heart disease Labrador Retrievers may acquire by eating a grain-free diet that contains peas, legumes, or lentils among the top five ingredients. DCM causes the heart to become dilated and unable to function properly. Labrador Retrievers with mild to moderate DCM may be asymptomatic. In severe cases, symptoms include rapid heart rate, cough, difficulty breathing, lethargy, lack of appetite, collapse, weight loss, and even death. This heart condition may first be detected by a veterinarian hearing a heart murmur during a routine exam, or by a blood test called an NT-proBNP assay that measures heart function. If nutritional DCM is diagnosed early, it can be reversed by feeding the dog a high-quality diet containing grain, and also by providing cardiac supplements. If the disease is advanced it cannot be reversed, but heart medications may be able to manage it for a period of time. You can prevent this condition by feeding your Labrador a well-balanced diet that includes grain. Progressive Retinal Atrophy Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is a disease of the eye that can occur as a result of various genetic mutations. The retina slowly degenerates over a period of time, leading to permanent dilation of the pupils and eventual blindness. PRA can be diagnosed with an eye exam. It usually develops in Labrador Retrievers at 3 to 9 years of age. Gene therapy may be helpful for dogs with this condition, but more research needs to be done to improve the outcome. Dogs that carry these genetic mutations should not be bred. What to Feed a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retriever puppies should be fed a high-quality puppy formula made for large breeds until they are a year old. Once they reach adulthood, they will need to transition to a high-quality adult formula for large breeds. To avoid complications with nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , talk with your veterinarian about appropriate dog foods that are not grain-free. A grain-free diet with peas, legumes, or lentils among the top five ingredients has been linked to this heart condition. How to Feed a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers do best with twice-daily feedings, morning and evening. They love to eat and are known to eat very quickly. If you notice your dog gobbling food down, consider a slow-feeding device. This will regulate the amount of food your dog can eat at one time and prevent regurgitation and stomach upset that can happen if they eat too quickly. Labrador Retrievers are deep-chested, and if they eat too quickly this can lead to bloat , an emergency situation where the stomach twists on itself. How Much to Feed a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retriever puppies have rapid growth spurts, so feed them a high-quality puppy formula when they are under 12 months of age. Puppy food will provide the extra calories they need to grow to their full potential. Follow the feeding guidelines on the back of the bag of large-breed puppy formula based on age and expected body weight. Once your Labrador Retriever is 1 year old, switch to a high-quality large-breed adult formula—which has fewer calories than the puppy version—to prevent unwanted weight gain. To determine how much to feed your Labrador Retriever , check the feeding guidelines on the bag and chat with your veterinarian to find the appropriate portions to help keep your dog at a healthy weight. Nutritional Tips for Labrador Retrievers Starting a Labrador Retriever on a joint supplement early in life can help slow down or possibly prevent arthritis. Virbac Movoflex , Synovi Chews , Dasuquin , Cosequin , and Flexadin are some examples of joint supplements that have gone through clinical trials and been proven effective. Another supplement to consider for a Labrador Retriever is an omega-3 fatty acid fish oil. This supplement helps to reduce inflammation in the joints, makes the coat shiny, and protects the skin barrier from allergens in the environment. They are very affectionate toward children, other pets, and even strangers. They love to play and are highly energetic throughout most of their lives. They need lots of exercise and attention to make them happy. Labrador Retrievers are considered moderate barkers. They are not known for digging in the yard. It is rare for a Labrador Retriever to show any sign of aggression. They may try to eat socks, shoes, furniture, and other items, or get into the trash. Therefore, keep a watchful eye on puppies and spend the time to train them on what they can and cannot eat. To help deter barking, start redirecting the behavior early and finding healthier outlets. Labrador Retriever Training Labrador Retriever puppies are very energetic and will grow into very strong dogs. It is highly recommended that Labrador Retriever puppies participate in puppy training and obedience training classes. They need to be socialized with different people and pets, so they get used to being around others at a young age. Be sure to quickly correct any bad puppy behaviors that arise—such as biting, growling, chewing on objects, and trying to eat random items—so that these behaviors do not continue and worsen over time. Fun Activities for Labrador Retrievers Scent work. They help you find the information you need right now. You might also want to check out our sections on Labrador Puppy Training. Do let us know what you would like to see added to the site. We are always happy to have your comments and suggestions. When To Collect Your Puppy We highly recommend that puppies are not removed from their breeder until they are 8 weeks old. There are lots of good reasons for this. It helps puppies develop good bite moderation skills before they are adopted into a family, ensures that they are ready to adapt quickly to their new life. And it helps to reduce the sad numbers of puppies bred for a quick profit. Puppies sold under seven weeks old often have health problems and need special care, and extra veterinary attention. Check out the following articles for further information: When can puppies leave their mother Your first puppy Your first puppy is a huge adventure. You have so much fun ahead. Labradors are generally very friendly dogs, but they can also be very distractible. So do start daily training games, using plenty of food. You can get regular training tips from Pippa by email, using the box below. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. Your dog is special! Chances are that you chose her because you like Labs and you expected her to have certain traits that would fit your lifestyle: Bouncy, cheerful, loyal, and enthusiastic Good with kids and other pets Above average intelligence and trainability when positive reinforcement training methods are used Loves to play games, especially fetch People-oriented and eager to please Even temper and gentle disposition However, no dog is perfect! Of course! Loyal and lively, these water-loving dogs make exceptional family members and hunting partners. They were valued by fisherman for their trainability, trustworthiness, and work ethic. Fulfilling their retriever name, they would dive into icy cold waters to help pull in fishing nets and occasionally catch stray fish that had escaped. Today the Labrador comes in two varieties: the American tall and lanky or English short and stocky. Whether American or English ancestry, there are three color versions — black, blonde, and brown. When given plenty of vigorous exercise and attention, these sweethearts are gentle and well-behaved in the home. All you need is a ball to throw and your Lab will love you for life! The Labrador Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Labrador. By knowing about health concerns specific to Labrador Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Labrador Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Labrador Retrievers. At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Lab looking and feeling her best. And unfortunately, your Lab is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections Labrador Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Labrador Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Roundworm egg as seen under the microscope. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Labrador is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good time. This is convenient for you and easy for your friend. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This means your Labrador is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off blood supply to the stomach, and sometimes the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as 30 minutes. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes out , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a chronic liver disease, called hepatitis, starting when he is middle aged. We usually diagnose it with blood testing and liver biopsy, and we treat it with medication and special diets. Signs of liver disease do not usually occur until most of the liver is already damaged or destroyed. Early detection and intervention with routine blood screening allows us to detect this problem at an earlier, more treatable stage. Bleeding Disorders Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test, as we may not know your pet has this disorder until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Hemolytic Anemia and Thrombocytopenia Labradors are particularly prone to some relatively rare diseases of the blood. If the immune system destroys red blood cells, your dog quickly becomes anemic, weak, and lethargic. His gums will look whitish or yellow instead of the normal bright pink color. Sometimes an emergency transfusion of red blood cells or platelets is needed. Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Labrador Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Illustration showing a tear in the cranial cruciate ligament of the knee joint. The cranial cruciate ligament is one of the four tough bands of tissue that hold each knee together. A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common injury in active dogs, which includes your Lab. Usually surgical correction is done to stabilize the knee and help prevent crippling arthritis. Physical therapy and multimodal pain management are necessary to get the best outcome. Keeping him at the right weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and avoiding too much twisting of the knees like playing Frisbee are key in avoiding this painful injury. When Labrador puppies are allowed to grow too quickly, the cartilage in their joints may not attach to the bone properly. This problem is known as osteochondritis dissecans or OCD. If this occurs, surgery may be required to fix the problem. Feed a large-breed puppy diet rather than an adult or a regular puppy diet. Weigh your puppy every three to four weeks. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition that could occur in your Labrador Retriever causes a wobbly, drunken gait. This condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, happens because there is a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck, which pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. If the nerves do not send signals to the brain the way they are supposed to, your dog cannot feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery are treatment options. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Labs have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars and require daily insulin injections. It is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Allergies In humans, an allergy to pollen, mold, or dust makes people sneeze and their eyes itch. In dogs, rather than sneeze, allergies make their skin itchy. Commonly, the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for this condition. Bleeding Tumor Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Labrador Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Abnormal lymphocytes, as seen under the microscope, confirming a diagnosis of lymphoma. Lymphoma Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Labrador Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer, with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Treatment can be costly, however, and is a lifelong commitment. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Unfortunately, Labrador Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. The adrenal glands are situated along the vena cava the large vein in the abdominal cavity near each kidney. These small glands release many important hormones in the body. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Lab is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite and reduced activity level. Later, a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss are characteristic. Treatment usually includes oral medications, and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary, or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, with Labrador Retrievers commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, they will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control, with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and effectiveness. Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some breeds like your Labrador can be born with a variety of heart defects. They can also cause problems with the electrical signals that control the heartbeat or with heart valve function. Special testing will be recommended if we hear a heart murmur or you notice any unusual symptoms such as tiring easily, coughing, a swollen belly, or fainting. Exercise Induced Collapse Exercise Induced Collapse, or EIC, is just what it sounds like — a young, apparently healthy Labrador collapses to the ground suddenly while exercising. In a few minutes, the weakness passes and he can get up again. Affected dogs cannot run for too long, especially in hot weather, so a day of hunting or strenuous hiking is probably not a good idea. Heat stroke can occur along with EIC. Limiting exercise is the only treatment and pet parents should be vigilant to avoid overheating. Genetic testing can be done to diagnose the disease and to screen dogs before breeding. Muscle Disease Labrador Retrievers may develop a disease of the muscles, called myopathy, somewhere between three and seven months old. Physical signs include bunny hopping, loss of muscle tone in the limbs, a stiff gait, or carrying the head low. Most dogs with myopathy are stabilized by twelve months of age, have a normal life span, and are suitable as house companions: no hunting or working! Taking Care of Your Labrador Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Lab live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. Labrador Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. Always walk your Lab on a leash, she has a tendency to run off after interesting smells and people. She has a passion for water and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help, and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Labrador Retriever needs help. For the most up-to-date information on DNA and other screening tests available for your pal, visit www. Your Labrador counts on you to take good care of her, and we look forward to working with you to ensure that she lives a long and healthy life. Please contact us when you have questions or concerns. References: Ackerman L. Second edition. AAHA Press; .Veterinary medical guide to dog and cat breeds. Jackson, Wyoming. Teton New Media; .Gough A, Thomas A. Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats. Wiley-Blackwell; .Canine Inherited Disorders Database [Internet]. University of Prince Edward Island.

Parent Breeds The parent breeds of the German shepherd pitbull mix include the German shepherd and the American pitbull terrier. As these breeds are both large dogs, the resulting mix is a large dog with unique physical and personality traits from both parent breeds. German Shepherd The German shepherd was originally selectively bred from shepherd dogs in 19th century Germany, where it was used as a herding dog. The breed was developed to be intelligent, strong, agile, and protective of flocks, all qualities that made it successful in its line of work. Horand von Grafath was recognized as the first German shepherd dog in .Today, the breed is still regarded as one of the best working dogs in the world because of its loyalty and eagerness to please. The German shepherd is used in police work, detection, service work, and search and rescue. German shepherd pitbull mixes often inherit the protective, hardworking temperament, strength, and wolf-like features of the German shepherd. The dogs were bred from terriers and bulldogs and used in blood sports like bullbaiting and dogfighting. American pitbull terriers were later selectively bred in the United States to have the muscular builds, sizes, and affectionate temperaments seen today. With proper socialization, American pitbull terriers make loyal, well-behaved companions. Lifespan A German shepherd pitbull mix has an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years if the dog follows a nutritious diet and exercises daily. Regular vet checkups help reduce the risk of health complications in German shepherd pitbull mixes. This mixed breed comes in shades of tan, white, gray, or black. Height and Weight German shepherd pitbull mixes are considered large dogs, with a height at the withers of 18—26 inches, and a weight of 30—90 pounds. Males are typically larger than females. Most German sheppits are lean, muscular, and slightly taller than their pitbull parents. Colors German shepherd pitbull mixes are typically tan, white, or black with bicolor markings. The coat color depends on the genes they inherit from their parents: German shepherd colors: Most common color combination is black and tan. Other colors include solid black, gray, red, and white. American pitbull terrier colors: Common colors are brown, black, and tan with various markings. Rare colors include solid white and brindle. German sheppits shed minimally to moderately throughout the year, depending on coat type. Double-coated dogs blow their coats twice a year. Personality and Temperament Photo by spcaofnorthernnevada German shepherd pitbull mixes are smart, affectionate, and protective dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. They get along well with kids, and their intelligence and athletic stature make them well-suited to agility classes and fieldwork. Socializing and training this mixed breed from a young age will help it grow into an outgoing, obedient, and even-tempered adult. These dogs can be trained with positive reinforcement from an early age to not bark excessively. Left alone, German sheppits often experience anxiety and engage in destructive behavior, like barking and scratching, to cope. While smart and not fussy over food, these dogs need plenty of exercise, training, and mental stimulation to stay happy. Food Needs A German sheppit adult should be fed 2 to 3. Grooming Needs The German shepherd pitbull mix should be brushed weekly, or a few times per week if it has inherited a double coat, to distribute natural oils and keep its fur tangle-free. Bathe the dog once every few months and ensure its nails are well-trimmed. Exercise Needs An adult German shepherd pitbull mix requires at least 60 minutes of exercise per day, split into two separate walks, to remain physically fit. A two-month-old puppy needs 10 minutes of exercise per day, while a four-month-old puppy requires 20 minutes. German sheppits do best in homes with large, secure backyards where they can run freely. Certain states, cities, and territories have laws in place that restrict or ban pitbulls and pitbull mixes. Check local laws before exercising this mixed breed in new areas. Mental Needs German shepherd pitbull mixes need 60 minutes of mental stimulation per day to prevent aggression, boredom, and anxiety. Suitable mentally-stimulating activities include obedience training, scent work, herding, puzzle toys, agility classes, and interactive games like fetch. Depending on the severity, the condition can be managed with medication and surgery. Bloat : When the stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid, and then twists, causing severe abdominal pain. Bloat is often fatal if not treated immediately. Hip dysplasia : Abnormal formation of the hip joint that causes pain and mobility issues. Treatable with surgery and lifestyle changes. Degenerative myelopathy : Degeneration of the spinal cord that causes leg weakness, incontinence, and eventually paralysis. The condition is managed and treated with lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory medication, and in some cases surgery. Symptoms include lethargy, weight gain, exercise intolerance, and coat changes. Hypothyroidism is treatable with medication. Cataracts : Cloudiness of the eye lens that causes vision issues. The German sheppit is particularly prone to food and skin allergies. Take these dogs to regular vet checkups to reduce their risks of health complications. Use positive reinforcement and be firm and consistent when training this mixed breed. Never use punishment-based training methods because these can cause anxiety in dogs and exacerbate their aggressive behaviors. These dogs need plenty of training and socialization throughout their lives to keep their dog aggression in check. German shepherd pitbull mixes are often available for adoption from rescue shelters. This price includes expenses such as food, treats, vet checkups, toys, and training. First-year costs are higher than subsequent years because of the costs of first-year puppy vaccinations and neutering or spaying, and initial supplies like bedding. The German shepherd pitbull mix is an affectionate and loyal dog that loves pleasing its owners. The mixed breed is playful, energetic, and well-suited to people that lead active lifestyles. German shepherd pitbull mixes are suitable for people that are active, have a large backyard, and can dedicate lots of time to socializing and training the dog. The best owners for these dogs are people that use positive reinforcement measures and stick to set boundaries. First-time dog owners should also avoid these dogs because the breed is difficult to manage without proper socialization and training. Check out these other hybrid dog breeds: German Shepherd Mixes. You can expect moderate shedding from this crossbreed. Be prepared to use a vacuum cleaner often. Most German Sheppits will come in a variety of colors like tan, black, white, fawn, and gray. Some have beautiful multi-colored coats like the GSD, while others inherit the brindle coats of their Pittie parents. Because of its moderate shedding, the German Pit is not the ideal dog for people who suffer from allergies to dander. Is a Shepherd-Pitbull mix dangerous? As we mentioned before, this breed is often negatively associated with being aggressive. A Shepherd Pit Bull mix is a loyal, intelligent, protective, and bold dog that likes spending time with his family. This canine has a calm and loving personality toward its owner, but it can be an attention-grabber, too. She loves nothing more than to run, play Frisbee, and roll around all day. Just make sure that your German Pitbull mix puppy is introduced correctly to small kids. Proper socialization and training are crucial because these dogs tend to chase down smaller animals. They may also have a dominant personality and may try to be the alpha to other dogs. Being raised with other pets will help this crossbreed co-exist with them. With early training and socialization, this naturally friendly and affectionate dog is an excellent choice for a family pet and the perfect companion for children. How much activity does this crossbreed need? A Pitbull German Shepherd hybrid has a strong and robust physique and he requires plenty of physical activity. You can take your dog on a one-hour jog or run in the morning and a minute walk in the evening to keep him in the excellent physical condition and as release excess energy. Without a proper exercise regimen, he may exhibit unruly and destructive behaviors like excessive barking, hole-digging, or chewing on slippers. Remember to keep it slow with a German Pit puppy because his legs are shorter. After that age, you can increase your speed as long as he can keep up. He can also have some playtime, like romping in the dog park. Or maybe play some fetch and let him catch a frisbee so his brain gets a workout, too. These crossbreeds require a high level of physical and mental activity to be in their best form. How to train Pitbull German Shepherd mix puppies The unfortunate truth is that this hybrid is not easy to train and is not suited for first-time dog owners. You need to be a firm and confident alpha , or he will try to control you. Be patient and try not to give in. Socializing him at an early age helps him interact better with other animals and encourages a better sense of adaptability in the dog. Socialization also fixes anxious and timid behavior and will help your pet get along with your family members. This breed may be intelligent, but he has a certain level of stubbornness when it comes to training. This hybrid tends to bark quite frequently, too, so you may want to include a routine that will help you control excessive barking. Try including crate training and leash training in your sessions. Starting it young is the best way to train a German Sheppit. The best age to start would be at seven weeks old. An adult dog can still receive training, although it will be more difficult. These are the most common health concerns to watch out for in your German Sheppit:. German Shepherd Pitbull Mix Video Temperament They have a calm nature and somewhat affectionate nature that can be enhanced with proper training. The German Pit is loyal to its family, enjoying spending time with them. Though they may not need your attention always, contented enough to spent some time on their own, leaving them alone for prolonged periods might make them destructive. Since they take on the genes of the German Shepherd and Pitbull, the Pit-German Shepherd mix may inherit their guarding instincts to a certain extent, being protective towards its family and exhibiting wariness towards strangers. It could even be territorial with other dogs and get into a chasing mode on encountering smaller pets. While allowing them to interact with children ensure there is proper parental supervision and the dog has been well socialized. Care Exercise It has a high exercise need, requiring two brisk walks a day, along with sufficient playtime. Keeping its excessive energy levels in mind it is not recommended to keep it in an apartment or enclosed space as it might get restless. Remember to leash it while taking it out. Grooming Though it does not need excessive grooming, brushing your Shepherd Pit with a brush having hard bristles on a weekly basis would be sufficient enough. It might resent grooming in the beginning, so you need to handle it gently and use positive reinforcements if needed, to help it get accustomed. Bathe it when it gets dirty and also check its ears and eyes once a week to keep any infections at bay. Brushing its teeth and trimming its nails are also essential. Health Problems Though healthy, the German Pit might inherit some of the conditions suffered by its parents like bloating, hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, hypothyroidism and heart problems. Training Training the German Shepherd mixed with Pitbull since its puppy days is mandatory, though an experienced master is preferred over a novice trainer. Socialization: Having the genes of German Shepherd and Pitbull, it might exhibit aggression and biting instinct, for which early socialization is a must. Teach it to differentiate between a threat and a pleasant situation so that your pet understands that a crying baby or playful kids playing in the yard is not bad. Feeding Feeding it cups good quality dry dog food in combination with a nutritious homemade diet would be sufficient. Conclusion 1. What does a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix look like? It is impossible to tell with certainty what the dog will look like when it is a mixed breed. What we do know is that this breed is more likely to have the face of the Pitbull, with a broad head and a short muzzle. As for coloring, this breed comes in a variety of colors: black, white, brown, tan, gray and fawn. Given that both the Pitbull and German Shepherd have strong physiques, it is not surprising that this mixed breed does too. Fully grown, these dogs are large , as mentioned in the first paragraph their average weight between lbs 29 — 38 kgs , so it is important that you have her under control. You can do this by properly training and socializing her. What characteristics can I expect? As with all crossbreeds, it is not easy to say precisely what temperament this dog will have, as it will always be a different combination. In my experience, however, they tend to have the following traits: High energy All dogs need regular exercise to stay fit, and this large breed usually needs a whole lot. I recommend at least a one-hour walk a day, providing you have an outdoor space where she can release excess energy for the rest of the day. By giving her the exercise she needs, you will avoid undesired behaviors such as slipper-chewing, hole-digging or nuisance barking. As long as she gets her exercise needs met, she will be happy to settle down and relax with you. Loyal and loving Pitbull German Shepherd mixes are very affectionate dogs when raised right. While they are good at entertaining themselves, they still love to be around you and make a good family dog. This dog can have a very protective nature. This is due to its German Shepherd relatives , who were bred to herd and guard livestock. To prevent this from the outset, you should socialize her with people as much as possible from an early age. Intelligence Both the Pitbull and the German Shepherd are incredibly intelligent breeds. It is no surprise, then, that this mix is no exception. These dogs learn quickly and respond incredibly well to training and commands. Just as you exercise her body, it is important to keep her mind stimulated, too. You should start training at the earliest possible stage. It is important to keep a close eye on this type of behavior because, if it gets out of control, it can turn into aggression. What are the common health problems? Providing that she has a healthy lifestyle, as we mentioned above this breed can live for up to 12 years. Every dog breed is susceptible to certain health difficulties, however, and it is good to be aware of these so that you can treat your dog accordingly. In the meantime, it is worth knowing that this breed can suffer from the following diseases: Skin irritation The Pitbull German Shepherd mix can be prone to skin irritation, which they inherit from the Pitbull side of its family. They tend to have more sensitive skin, which can react strongly to insect bites as well as to fleas and ticks. To prevent this reaction, make sure you use a high-quality tick and flea treatment. Diet also plays an important part in maintaining the health of the skin. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a condition that can begin in dogs as they grow and results in an unstable or loose hip joint. While weight management is essential for any dog breed, it is highly important that this breed maintains a healthy weight to avoid stressing the hip joint. How much will I need to groom her? This mix has a coat that can range from short to medium in length. I recommend starting your grooming regime when she is a puppy so that she can get used to the routine. I do not advise over-bathing these dogs no more than once a month due to their tendency to skin irritation. It may also be worth buying a shampoo specifically designed for dogs with sensitive skin. German Pits are usually floppy-eared, which means they get less air circulation and are therefore more prone to earwax build-up and ear infections. I advise that you get her ears checked at least monthly, either at the vet or with a reputable groomer. So is the German Pit the right fit for me? After all the information you have read, it is now important to put this question to yourself. As you can see, these dogs have the potential to be lovely, loyal dogs that are ideal for a family. Yet they require a lot of attention, walking and training, so they need a dedicated, and preferably experienced, dog owner. Conclusion Here are the main points to consider before committing to owning one of these dogs: Are you an experienced dog owner? Are you dedicated to walking your dog at least an hour a day? Do you have a spacious house with a yard, or can you walk her twice daily? Are you able to provide a rigorous and dedicated training routine? If not, it might be time to reconsider getting a different breed of dog. Do you own a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix? Leave a comment below and tell me all about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. I have worked with various large breeds all my life. The German Shepherd is my favorite. I recently brought home a mixed breed. .Our Puppy is high energy at 8 weeks old. Highly intelligent and very affectionate. I have a large family with lots of boys and 1 girl. So our family is definitely the right fit! In my opinion every family member should have an caring active role in raising the family dog. Temperament: It depends. A German Pit dog can be gentle, loving and protective of its family. It will like to be top dog and may challenge authority but with proper training it will learn who the master is. It gets bored easily. They cannot be left alone for long periods of time, or they can become noisy and naughty. Feelings and signals: Dogs communicate in many ways from playing to barking. Never approach a dog with its tail way down! How should you train a German Shepherd Pitbull Mix? With patience! There are several types of training required: obedience, discipline, agility and socialization. Each is important to help this type of puppy learn to socialize and behave. This looks like a dangerous dog so it is important to train it to challenge perceptions and show people the best of this breed instead. How do you begin puppy training? It will take time, patience, with positive reinforcement, using praise and small treats as a reward for success. So, if you are not going to use a professional dog trainer — Here are some tips to begin: 1 Develop your basic command words: Find the keywords you think you will use most like Sit, Stop, and Fetch etc. It will become its nest and it will feel safe and sleep there. Any mix from purebred dogs, could have congenital health problems. A German Shepherd and an American Pitbull Terrier cross breed could develop: Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a mal-formation of the hip joint, where the ball at the top of the leg does not fit properly into the socket and the ligaments attaching it are weak. This allows excess movement of the fitting which can eventually lead to stiffness and pain for the dog. This active dog could have hip problems, causing pain when moving. Early warning signs are — stiffness when getting up or walking, reluctance to get up when prompted and its usual walking style can change. It can occur early or later in life. The only way to check is to trace the health history of the birth parents. There is no cure but a Vet will help with medication to manage the pain. Skin problems Atopic dermatitis They can develop allergies causing skin conditions and itching — from grass, mold, pollen etc. Bloat Gastric Dilatation-volvulus Affects many deep-chested, larger dog breeds that like to eat large volumes quickly, drink too much water after eating or even eat too close to exercising. Early signs are: restlessness after eating, a bloated stomach and an inability to reject excess air or food through ineffective retching. In each case it is important to seek medical help! Exercise: This will be a very active dog, with lots of energy and need lots of exercise. They like to play chase and fetch. A puppy needs hours of exercise every day and more when older otherwise it will get bored. It will love running around and adventures but not adapt to small spaces. Therefore not suited to apartment living. Remember: Puppies should not be exercised too much on hard ground as their paws are still delicate so a mix of hard and softer ground is recommended until they are at least 2 years of age. Leash training is strongly recommended for discipline, safety and control in the early years. Feeding: Feed as an active large-sized dog with a recommended type of specially-formulated dry food. A Vet will advise the food type, exact amount, how often and if they need extra mineral and vitamins. Puppies should have their daily amount split into 3 daily feeds. Be careful not to over-feed them as weight gain can put pressure on their hips. Grooming: This dog has a short to medium length coat of hair that does shed but not too much so it only needs to be brushed times a week. A good brush is recommended. Bathing: This dog has short hair like the Pitbull so bathing is only recommended when needed, but not too often as their coats contain natural oil; which can be stripped with over-bathing. Certain shampoos have the double effect of cleaning the coat and protecting it against fleas and insect bites. Chewing helps, so use doggie chew toys, bare bones, soft tooth brushes and toothpaste. Nails grow quickly and need to be trimmed regularly, say once a month, and checked for infection. Their floppy ears need to be regularly checked for dirt build-up or infection. Anything unusual should be checked by a Vet. What is life like for a GSPM? Otherwise, with their high energy levels they may show their boredom through destroying or chewing things and barking. They can make a great family dog. Remember just how active this dog is before choosing one. How much does it cost? Always best to adopt rather than buy if you can. Adopting a German Shepherd Pitbull mix from an adoption center is the best thing you can do. It can be life changing — not only for the dog but to you as well. He requires a low-to-medium maintenance level due to its short coat and a moderate amount of shedding. Brushing his coat can be done weekly, or three times a week if you are the type of person who is greatly bothered by scattered dog hair. Make sure to clean his ears often since this area is common to accumulate dirt, moisture, and bacteria. Nail trimming should be accomplished every few weeks to keep his paws clean and healthy. Pitbull mixed with German Shepherd Health Problems Provided that he is given the proper care and is living a healthy lifestyle, this crossbreed can live up to 12 years. Every breed is susceptible to specific health issues, and so it is essential that as a dog owner, you are aware of these things so that you know how to take care well of your dog accordingly. It is worth remembering that the Pitbull crossed with German Shepherd may suffer from the following diseases. Hip Dysplasia: The German Shepherd breed is genetically susceptible to this condition, and the possibility of passing it to its offspring is highly possible. The disease is characterized by malformation of the hip joints which may cause lameness and ongoing pain. Atopic Dermatitis: It is an inflammatory skin condition which may be triggered by exposure to certain environmental factors such as grass sprayed with pesticides and mold spores. To avoid this condition from affecting your pup, make sure to keep your house clean. Also, keep an eye for increased use of pesticides at dog parks. Skin Irritation: The Pitbull German Shepherd is prone to skin irritation, which it inherits from the Pitbull side of the family. They have a more sensitive skin, which can react strongly to insect bites, such as fleas and ticks. Generally, feeding him cups of good quality dry food daily in combination with nutritious homemade diet would be sufficient. A well-balanced diet covering all the essential nutrients, including an appropriate protein and calorie intake, is vital in an active breed like the German Sheppit. On average, the German Shepherd Pitbull needs calories for males, while calories for females. Its core ingredients include ground brown and white rice, lamb meal and chicken meal. It has all-natural ingredients infused with additional minerals and vitamins. Its main components include chicken, real beef and salmon meat products. Blue Buffalo Wilderness: If your Pitbull German Shepherd has food allergies, this dog food is the right choice for you. It is a grain-free turkey and potato recipe dog food supplemented with antioxidant-rich kibble. This dog food is formulated to minimize food sensitivities while maximizing the nutritional value dogs receive. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient: This dog food is formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs. If your pooch is still a munchkin, you should go through best puppy food brands. Senior, gray-coated dogs require different diets. Your pooch takes genes from two parents. This means you could also take into account buying the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Pitbull Crossed with German Shepherd Exercise Requirements The Pitbull German Shepherd mix is an active and high-energy dog, so it might get destructive if he gets bored. This breed love to move around and therefore enjoys doing exercise activities. It is recommended to exercise him at least 90 minutes daily. Their exercise requirement is not just a guideline, but it is crucial that they are met. Without enough exercise, this breed may fall into a pattern of aggressive and destructive behaviors, such as excessive barking, unwanted chewing, and digging. Mental stimulation exercises should also be part of your routine to keep them from getting bored and further improve its social interactions. You can provide your pet with interactive dog toys. While it is true that they come from parent breeds with remarkable high intelligence, you should be warned that training them can be a bit overwhelming. Patience, attention, more time and positive reinforcement are the key components that owners should abide by in training this crossbreed. This is for your dog to learn the proper etiquette at a young age and avoid developing unwanted behaviors when it grows up. Remember to keep the pace of the training slow as your pup is still young and its body might still be fragile. After a year or two, however, you can increase the pace. Moreover, take note that an experienced trainer is better than a novice trainer. You need to be strong and authoritative. Otherwise, this dog will try to dominate you. Gentle yet firm treatment is the way to go with the German Sheppit puppy. Use Positive ReinforcementEven if this mixed breed has a tendency to become stubborn, avoid taking extreme measures. Using negative punishment-based training will not do any help, he might just end up not respecting you as a leader. Make it a regular routine to reward him whenever he does something right. Implement simple rules that they can follow and in return, give them praises and treats for obeying the rules. Training your German Sheppit consistently in a positive method will provide you with pet companions that are obedient and good-natured. Puppy socialization has been proven to reduce developing aggressive behaviors, anxiety, and fearfulness later on in their adulthood. You just have to introduce and desensitize your dog to different people and environments. You can try doing the following: Puppy classes Playing at dog-friendly parks Make him attend doggy daycares The above activities ensure that your dog interacts with a range of fellow dogs and people as well on different environments, which may include on and off leash interactions. Include Mental Exercises on Their TrainingThe Pitbull mixed with German Shepherd is an intelligent dog, and they need stimulating mental activities to avoid developing aggressive and other unwanted behaviors. Mental stimulation activities can be in the form of games or puzzles. German Shepherd Pitbull and Families With consistent proper training, exercise and correct socialization, the German Shepherd Pitbulls are incredibly loyal, friendly and affectionate towards family members, making them an excellent choice as a family pet. This crossbreed can even be the perfect breed for children, especially that its parent breed Pitbull was previously known as a nanny dog. Young kids, especially those under 8 years old, may play rough with dogs and they may tire them out or provoke them unknowingly causing the dogs to react in aggressive behaviors. Children should be taught to love and respect all members of the family including your four-legged family companions. This dog loves to spend time with you and other family members. So give love lots of affection to your German Shepherd crossed with Pitbull and expect an unconditional love in return. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepherd Pit Bulls are prone to weight gain. They also have high energy levels. About three hours a day of activity is recommended. Agility training, hiking, walking, running, or playing around a yard will keep them happy. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. One of the toughest jobs when caring for a German Shepherd Pit Bull is maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth daily, as many breeds are prone to dental issues. Vets or groomers are good at performing this messy task. You should consult your veterinarian or professional pet nutritionist for advice on what to feed your German Shepherd Pit Bull and the correct portion sizes. Their dietary needs will change as they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years. Stay on top of these nutritional requirements. Their German Shepherd parents grow very rapidly between the ages of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. Overfeeding your German Shepherd Pit Bull and letting them pack on the pounds can cause joint problems, as well as other health conditions. Limit treats, keep them active, and serve them regular meals rather than leaving food available at all times. The main colors of German Shepherd Pit Bulls coats are brown, black, white, grey, tan, and fawn. Almost never solid, their coats are generally a mixture of two or more colors. They usually have short thick coats, and this mixed breed is not recommended for people with allergies. They tend to shed quite a bit and you may need to pick up a RoboVac. These pups will require at least three good brushes per week. Brushing will also help to spread the oils throughout the coat. German Shepherd Pit Bulls may be able to handle some extreme weather conditions for short periods of time. These dogs must live indoors with their families. However their size could put them at a disadvantage around smaller children. They could easily accidentally knock over a toddler. No matter how friendly, no dog should ever be left unsupervised with a small child. German Shepherd Pit Bulls can get along well other dogs, especially if raised with them. Socialization early on is a must for this mixed breed. For a better understanding of this breed read more about their parent breeds, the German Shepherd and American Pit Bull Terrier. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or American Pit Bull Terrier breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:.

Breeder of Poodle Puppies for Sale in Illinois Welcome to the most well respected breeder of red and apricot poodles in Illinois! We specialize in breeding and selling red, apricot, cream, and black poodle puppies, varying in size from toy, miniature and moyen. Unlike many other dog businesses, who have multiple different breeds, we specialize specifically in breeding poodles. For more information, either contact us or visit our facebook page! We have well over followers on Facebook and most of the posts on our page are from previous owners showcasing the poodles they have purchased from us. We encourage you to scroll through all the tabs and learn even more about us and our puppies! A little about me… My name is Frank Reliford. I am a husband, father of 8 children, grandpa to 4 grandkids, Christian, retired school principal hence, the name , and full-time poodle whisperer! Okay, well, maybe not that last part… However, I have been in the poodle business for roughly 20 years and have learned a thing or two! I love the poodle breed. Poodles are so well respected that so many other breeds are mixed with poodles trying to get the favorable qualities that poodles have into their mixed puppies. A little about my business… As previously mentioned, Poodle Pups with Principal is a family-ran business, with many of the family playing an important role! All of our puppies are kept indoors until the begin to wean. The most common feedback we get from our buyers is how social and adjusted our puppies are. From day one our puppies are handled regularly by members of our family, especially kids and grandkids! We back that up with a written two-year health guarantee on all of our puppies. Some congenital issues are guaranteed for life! Frank Reliford owner. We are located in beautiful Southern Illinois where my husband and I Have been raised and lived on a farm with all kinds of animals most of our lives. Babypoodles was started because of my love for the Poodle breed. I acquired my first baby poodle as a teenager and have owned and raised them for a large part of my life, soon after getting married and trying to start a family of my own with no success. Babypoodles came to fruition! I had a very real need to be maternal and the Teacup Poodles and Tiny Toy Poodles helped me to fulfill that need to nurture a baby. The Lord Blessed us with our business and gave us a child of our own as well and he is now a Wonderful help in socializing and acclimating all of our Toy Poodles to be loved and nurtured for their new mommy and or daddy to fulfill their needs as well. The puppies are handled from the day they are born and they are well socialized with children as well as other dogs. They are vaccinated and dewormed as far as age permits for the puppy. We have made every effort to ensure that all our puppies come from only the healthiest parents and all parents of puppies are on site. All of our puppies have an excellent temperament and are very affectionate. We would like to Thank You for visiting with Babypoodles. We are one of Illinois favorite and trusted Toy Poodle breeders. Let us help you with our experience and knowledge with any questions or concerns you might have about adopting a Baby poodle puppy. Or E-mail mommykelley babypoodles. I do respond to e-mails within 24 hours if not sooner. We are a Toy Poodle breeder near St. You are always welcome to come and visit. Please call or E-mail ahead for an appointment. We do not ship, however we do make personal deliveries to the airport for the Baby Poodle to be flown in cabin Safely, and we make personal deliveries to Nashville, Tennessee, St. Louis and the Chicago areas for a fee and arrangements made ahead so the puppy is never left alone at any time so you may meet your new baby poodle in person. We do not sell to Pet Shops or Brokers!!!

how to care for goldendoodle puppy - The Pugs that they produce are well-suited as family companions and emotional support dogs. They offer both AKC-standard colors as well as non-standard Pug colors. Potty-training and litter-box training are done as soon as their puppies start moving around. And like the other Pug breeders in this list, complete vaccination, deworming, and other basic puppy necessities are given to their puppies. The pricing of their puppies mostly depends on the color. The rarer their shade, the higher the price. Future owners can also choose from a limited or full AKC registration and unlike other breeders that only have one year guarantee, they offer two years for congenital defects. Testimonies from previous buyers can be read on the website to further prove the credibility of the breeder. They also offer daycare services where your puppies can socialize with other dogs. You can also get your Pug groomed afterward. Talk about an all-around breeder! They also organize Pug fests and other fun activities for all adopted puppies and their owners. All the Pug breeders included on our list passed our standards. However, if you want to verify their legitimacy, read our ultimate puppy buying guide for some proven tips on how to safely find a breeder online or how to find a puppy for sale while avoiding scams. There are other ways to find these popular pups. These platforms can help you find more options to find Pug puppies for sale: AKC Marketplace — This platform can give you a list of registered AKC breeders who have met specific health testing and breeding standards. Potential buyers are given an overview of the available Pug puppy and can directly message the breeder for more details. PuppySpot — This is another popular platform for finding Pug puppies for sale. Users can filter by state, size of the pup, and preferred purpose. Just make sure to read the description because some of them might be mixed breeds. Good Dog — Many registered Pug breeders are also available on this user-friendly platform. Puppies from champion dogs are often priced higher than normal pedigrees. They would need regular veterinary visits, vaccinations, medications, vitamins, and other needs. You also need to consider buying items that will make your new Pug feel comfortable in its new home. The summarized expenses for these items can be seen in the table below: Type of Expense. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Why do I want a show lines pug puppy? I'm only looking for a pet. Experience the ultimate joy of owning a pug puppy from Companion Pups! We go beyond the conventional notion of keeping show-quality pugs exclusively for show homes. We believe that everyone deserves the absolute best when it comes to their furry family members. Pugs were bred to be people's companions, and we are passionate about bringing that exceptional companionship to your home. Purebred doesn't always guarantee superior breeding or adherence to pug standards. That's why our show lines ensure that you not only get a pug with the correct look but also the perfect personality, temperament, and size. Our show line puppies possess a special charm that makes them thrive in a multitude of environments which makes for the best family companions ever —happy, playful, and confident, without being hyper or spastic. They are intelligent, attentive learners, embodying the chunky, wrinkly look and adorable nose roll that pug enthusiasts adore. By choosing a show line puppy from us, you're selecting a well-balanced, fun-loving, and fiercely loyal companion that exceeds all expectations. Experience the beauty and trainability wrapped up in the healthiest pug puppies. Our AKC and International lines are health tested and our pugs are pre-spoiled, ensuring a delightful addition to your family. Welcome to Companion Pups, the home of the Kisses' Line of Pug Puppies, where our pugs literally give you kisses and are eager to shower you with love and affection! We'd also like you to know you can always expect a quick response from us as well so you are never left waiting and wondering when you'll hear back. It's our goal to be here when you need us for the life of your pug. Welcome to the Companion Pups family! Pin it to remember the Price of Pugs Why are Pugs so expensive? So just why are Pugs so expensive? One reason is because Pugs, like most other Brachycephalic dogs with flat faces and large heads , are most often born via cesarean section. Pugs are also susceptible to numerous orthopedic and hereditary diseases—so reputable breeders will conduct testing on both parents to help ensure a healthy litter. This test screens for Hip Dysplasia and Patellar Luxation. Breeders also have the option to test for Elbow Dysplasia with this screening. This important test screens for Necrotizing meningoencephalitis NME , a fatal brain disorder that can kill Pug puppies. This metabolic disease breaks down the red blood cells of a young Pug. The price will depend on several factors: The location of the breeder. The rules of supply and demand pertain to dogs as well so larger metropolitan areas are often more expensive. The pedigree of the parent Pugs. Pugs that have participated in sanctioned competitions have more expensive litters. Whether the Pug is a show quality dog or a pet quality dog. Show quality puppies with a future in competitive dog shows and breeding are more expensive. The age of the Pug. Puppies are definitely more expensive; you may occasionally find a breeder selling a retired breeding Pug or a Pug that originated at the breeder but has been returned. The color of the Pug. AKC recognized two colors : black and fawn. The Canadian Kennel Club recognizes fawn, silver fawn and black. The Federation Cynologique Internationale and the Kennel Club of the UK both recognize silver sometimes called silver-fawn , apricot often called apricot-fawn , fawn and black. The less common the color, the more expensive the dog. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with Pug breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Do an online search for complaints. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through comments. Remember, however, comments can be deleted by the page owner. When you find a breeder and want to determine if they are reputable: Ask for references. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. Ask if the breeder will take the Pug back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. Pug breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a Pug online, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care. The pros of purchasing from a Pug breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of color and gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about Pugs and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a Pug breeder You will pay more for a Pug from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has Pug puppies for sale at prices far lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. Pugs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Pugs under a year old will be the most costly. The dogs that are up for adoption at Pug rescues may be there for a variety of reasons: Death of an owner. Lost Pugs that the rescue had seen on shelter websites. Pugs a breeder no longer wanted. Whatever the reason, the Pugs in rescue may or may not come with papers, depending on whether or not the dog was surrendered with papers. You may also find Pug rescues at pet expos and special events in your area. Rescues will often have a booth with information on the rescue and a few adoptable dogs. Most dogs at purebred rescues are pulled from shelters, often open-intake shelters that may not be no-kill shelters. You will be able to adopt a Pug for far less money than purchasing a Pug from a breeder. You will be able to talk with people who are passionate about Pugs about the individual Pug you are interested in adopting. Our most recent search brought up a healthy, 7-month-old Pug puppy so you never know. Your dog may or may not be a purebred Pug and may or may not have papers. The least expensive option when it comes to Pug prices is the shelter, either a municipal shelter or a privately-operated shelter. Are you a senior? A member of the military or law enforcement? Many shelters offer special discounts. To locate a Pug at a shelter, call your local shelter or start your search online. Click on the link of adoptable Pugs in the top left corner; you can then enter your zip code to see Pugs near you. The listings will include both rescues and shelters. Unlike adopting from a Pug rescue, dogs at a shelter will generally be housed at the shelter although an increasing number utilize foster homes whenever they can, especially for puppies. If the dog is housed at the shelter, you may not know a lot about his or her personality. Talk with the shelter staff and ask if the dog has been temperament tested and if they can tell you if the dog is skittish, shy, outgoing, has any prior training, etc. And while you may see dogs listed as a Pug at a shelter, that may or may not mean they are Pugs, purebred or mixed. Shelters use their best judgement, often while intaking many dogs, so sometimes the accuracy of the breed is questionable. Since Pugs do have such a distinctive look, however, you can use your judgement to see if the dog displays usual Pug characteristics and markings. Ask the shelter if they have any background on the dogs; you may be surprised to find a puppy whose purebred mother came in as a pregnant lost dog and gave birth at the shelter. It definitely happens. The Pros of Adopting a Pug from a Shelter You are saving a life, not only of the dog you adopt but of the next dog who will be rescued due to the kennel that is now clear. Your new dog will have received a long list of veterinary services. You will have the love of a dog whose price was far less than that of a dog from a breeder. You may not know the history of the dog. FAQ What is the cheapest price for a Pug? If you find low-cost purebred Pugs listed online, please consider that you may be supporting a puppy mill. What is the Teacup Pug price? These dogs are the result of breeding the smallest runt dog of one litter to the smallest dog of another litter, producing smaller than usual Pugs—and selling them for sometimes twice as much as a traditional Pug. As you might expect, this can mean additional health problems for the puppies. Are Pugs expensive to own? While their small size means Pugs are not as expensive to own as larger breeds, due to the potential health issues discussed above they can be expensive in terms of veterinary care. Pet insurance is a good investment to help cover vet issues as they arise. Pin it to remember the Price of Pugs Posted on Last updated:. November 15, 1 Comment Gorgeous, compact, and slightly clownish, the Pug is a cherished dog bred with unique features and a charming personality. Pugs are a perfect choice for the first time dog owner since they are low maintenance when it comes to exercise, great with kids, and most importantly, they are ready to put that smile on your face with a cuddle on the couch. This guide will give a detailed answer to the first question most individuals have when they have decided to purchase a Pug — how much do Pugs cost? While you will pay much more for such a dog, you will have peace of mind knowing the dog comes from a superior line. Which Factors Affect the Cost of a Pug? Location Location is the primary factor that affects the cost of Pugs — their price can vary vastly based on your country. For instance, prices differ from the U. Quality The cost will vary from low to high based on the quality of the Pug too. There are two primary kinds of Pugs: show quality and pet quality. Show quality Pug puppies are more costly compared to the pet quality ones. Some competent Pug breeders will ensure the puppies are health tested to evaluate possible genetic disorders and diseases. However, even with these health tests, puppies can be susceptible to health issues as they mature. With so many breeders out there, choosing the best breeder to buy a Pug puppy from can be overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you buy quality dogs. Visit the breeder to check out the conditions the dogs are bred in. Request to see the parent of the puppy. Confirm whether both parents are purebred. Supply and Demand The prices of Pugs change throughout the year, but they are usually higher from late spring to the winter holidays. When the demand is high, the cost of a Pug will also be high. Breeders begin to advertise Pug puppies when they are around weeks old, with a goal of finding suitable homes for them before they reach 9 weeks. Once they are beyond 9 weeks, their cost will gradually drop since potential owners aim to take them home around 8 weeks — when the puppy is ready to be separated from its mother. If those puppies reach 3 to 5 months old without being sold, the breeder may decide to reduce their price significantly or integrate them into the breeding program. What is the Cost of Nourishing a Pug? Weighing about 14 to 18 pounds, the Pug is a small pup with a great appetite. Wrapping up If you are looking for a frisky, loving, and petite companion, a Pug could be the perfect choice for you. Pugs love children and make wonderful pets for families because of their tendency for playtime and adaptability to any living environment. When searching for the best pup, bear in mind that many factors affect the cost of a Pug but in the end, a new playful companion is priceless. We live in Western Wa. Rescue is also an option. Let us kknow if you can be of any help in our search.


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how to care for goldendoodle puppy - Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Utah? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Utah cost? The price of buying a German Shepherd puppy will vary from breeder to breeder based on pedigree, coat color, and other factors. Am I limited to only using local litters and breeders to find a puppy? Your new pup will fly in style in the cabin, not stowed with the luggage. How do you screen all the breeders who apply to join Uptown? We carefully vet applicants based on their experience, their standards of animal care, legal requirements, and much more. Why is Uptown Puppies different from similar networks? We do one thing best - connect loving families like yours with the country's best - and most caring - breeders. What is a puppy mill and what goes on in them? A puppy mill is a place designed to maximise profit from churning out countless ill, bad-tempered German Shepherd puppies Utah. Puppy mills are foul places, where dogs are treated badly, conditions are filthy, and love and affection are in short supply. A German Shepherd for sale in Utah bought from a puppy mill is likely to suffer from health issues - potentially costing you thousands in vet bills. Yes we can! The companies and breeders in our network will have you covered. We make it quick, easy, and stress-free to find your dream German Shepherd puppy. Can I trust your network? When you look for Utah German Shepherds for sale, we want our network to be top of your list. What kind of health problems do German Shepherds have? This is a very active, energetic breed, so daily exercise is important for their health and wellbeing. You should also consider that a Utah German Shepherd for sale bought from puppy mills or backyard breeders are more likely to be sickly. How easy are German Shepherds to train? Like other working-dog breeds, German Shepherds for sale in Utah are smart and obedient - they were bred to be that way. That means that with the right encouragement, your German Shepherd Utah puppy should have no problems picking up basic commands, then moving onto more complex tricks and instructions. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. You can pay by bank card, money transfer, or cryptocurrency. Reprinting of information and photos of the site is prohibited! Manage Cookie Consent We use cookies. Not consenting, may adversely affect certain features and functions. 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Marketing Marketing The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes. February 8, German Shepherd History German Shepherds have been around since the start of the 20th century, when the Society for German Shepherds was started by Max von Stephanitz, a dog breeder in Germany. He is credited with the creation of the breed, which he bred with the intention of developing the best possible dog for herding, particularly prizing intelligence and loyalty. These traits have led to their famous use as seeing eye dogs, as well as police or military animals, or guard dogs. The breed quickly became popular all over the world, and today is the second most common family dog in America. Of course, they also excel at their original purpose of herding livestock. Despite their fierce attitude and bold reputation, they are not overly aggressive by nature. However, they still require training, as does any breed, depending upon the needs of their owenrs. For families, they can learn to be gentle and quiet, and then are often excellent babysitters! A well-trained German Shepherd are often more than happy watching after young children and playing with them. They can also be taught to guard people or places, or to help their owners with certain tasks like seeing eye dogs. Some shepherds may not make good family dogs. Former police or military animals usually fall into this category, although sometimes they can change. Fortunately, they are incredibly smart and adaptable dogs. However, if possible and practical, obtaining a young German Shepherd who is still learning and easily trainable will be preferable, so that he or she can more readily adapt to your home. Regardless of your intended use of the dog, your German Shepherd should receive proper training from a young age. Part of this responsibility comes from their size. An untrained dog of their size could pose a danger to owners, neighbors, or other dogs. But not to worry, remember they are great learners! At about two feet from shoulder to ground, 30 inches long, and between pounds for males , German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. These sizes are the desirable measruements of a German Shepherd according to the American Kennel Club. German Shepherd Appearance German Shepherds are double-coat dogs, meaning they have an outer coat of hair and a thicker undercoat. This also means that they tend to shed considerably when the seasons change, particularly in the spring and fall. They should be groomed year round, but brushing and de-shedding is especially important during these seasons, as failing to do so could lead to matted and tangled hair, or clogged vacuum cleaners! Their notable shedding should also be taken into account for people with allergy problems, as being in a home where a German Shepherd lives and sheds could become unpleasant for them. German Shepherds should be bathed periodically if they smell, but not too often. They actually have layers of oils on their skin that are good for them, and removing these through constant baths could lead to skin problems. Choosing the Right German Shepherd When choosing a German Shepherd puppy, prioritize a dog that comes from a quality breeder and shows promise for training and socializing. Specifically, look for one which appears trustful, attentive, and willing to learn. When interacting with you, they should explore and be curious, but they should focus a lot on you as well. Being able to pick them up or roll them over without them struggling too much shows submission and obedience. If not given proper instruction, they will often get into trouble when left alone. A fenced yard is ideal to give them room to exercise without as many opportunities to cause trouble. Strictly teach them what is and is not allowed; they actually crave this, and if you do not show them the rules, they will start to assign their own order to their life. Training is easy with German Shepherds because they form close connections with their handlers and have a strong desire to please. Being so adaptable makes German Shepherds excellent for any role. From their numerous jobs in the armed forces or police forces to a simple family dog who loves kids, they can learn to fit into almost any role. Share this post. Sound in mind and body, strong, functional, intelligent, trainable, courageous, and resilient. These are the natural qualities that can only be realized through the incredible genetics of purebred German Shepherds. We only import the best-of-the-best. Certified champions straight from Germany! Due to his home being burglarized in , Wayne decided to train dogs in tracking, obedience, and protection. His untrained Staffordshire Bullterrier was unable to protect his home and he then decided to obtain a Rottweiler for protection. Wayne continued to train Rottweilers up until the early 90s where he purchased his first German Shepherd. He was raised along side German Shepherds which had a huge impact toward his love and respect for the breed. At Kraftwerk K9, we honor the history of the German Shepherd. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting our Available Dog page!