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A 6-week-old German Shepherd needs to eat frequently for optimal growth. Aim for four small meals per day to provide a steady supply of nutrients and energy. Meal Schedule: Establish a routine with four meals a day. Pups love consistency! You want to feel their ribs without them being visible. Of course, always have clean, fresh water available. Pups get thirsty too! You can also add some canned, wet food mixed in to encourage them to finish their meals and add a bit more enticing flavor. German Shepherds tend to be prone to sensitive stomachs , so stay alert to any symptoms of digestive upset. As your pup grows, read more about what to feed your German Shepherd puppy. Potty Training: No More Oopsies! Take them outside every minutes, especially after meals, naps, and playtimes. Watch for signs like sniffing the floor or wandering behind furniture. Reward them with praise and treats when they go outside to reinforce the behavior. After Activities: Take them out after eating, playing, or waking up from a nap. These are prime potty times. Puppy Signals: Watch for signs like sniffing, circling, or restlessness. Praise and Treats: When they do their business outside, celebrate with praise and treats. Positive reinforcement works wonders! Choose an appropriately-sized crate, making it cozy with bedding and toys. Gradually introduce them to it with short, positive experiences. Over time, the crate becomes a safe haven, aiding in housebreaking and providing a sense of security for your pup. Crate training can be a game-changer for potty training! Crate as Safe Haven: Make the crate comfy with a blanket and some toys. Pups love their cozy den. It prevents accidents and helps them learn bladder control. One of the keys to raising a happy and healthy pup is understanding their sleep needs and providing the right exercises. On average, they sleep for about 18 to 20 hours a day. Puppies need these long beauty rests to grow and develop properly. Puppy Lullaby: Soft, soothing music or white noise can help them drift off into puppy dreamland. Keep their crates or beds in the same room you sleep in for the first few months. You can slowly transition them to sleeping in their own room without you. Short, frequent bursts of playtime are the way to go. Enjoy these exercises for a German Shepherd puppy: Short Walks: At this age, around 5 minutes of gentle leash walking is plenty. Think of it as a leisurely stroll and not a full-on workout and stick to just 3 short strolls a day. Avoid High Impact: Never run or jog with your dog at this young age. Let them set the pace. Tug of War: A good old game of tug can be a blast for your pup. Fetch: Start with short throws and a soft toy. Hide and Seek: Hide treats around the house in puppy-safe spots, of course and let them use their nose to find them. Sniffaris: Sniffing is great for their brain development at this age. Avoid Steps: Never let your 6-week-old puppy climb stairs because they could seriously injure themself. Remember, their little bodies are still developing, so keep it light and fun. And always keep an eye on their energy levels. If they seem tired, let them rest. Begin with gentle brushing sessions to familiarize them with the process. Here are some grooming tips to get you started: Gentle Introduction: Begin by introducing your puppy to the grooming process gradually. Let them sniff and explore the grooming tools before you start. Brushing: Use a soft brush suitable for their delicate puppy fur. Brush in the direction of hair growth to prevent discomfort. A pair of grooming gloves works wonders for keeping things gentle for your pup. Frequency: Start with short, gentle brushing sessions a few times a week. As they grow, increase the frequency to daily brushing to remove the most shedding. Bathing: Sometimes your little pup might get into a mess and need a bath. Always use a gentle puppy shampoo that helps ensure a comfortable and itch-free coat. Eye and Ear Check: While grooming, inspect their eyes and ears for any signs of irritation or discharge. Wipe their floppy ears if you find any dirt or wax on the outside of the ear canal. Remember to reward your pup with treats and praise during and after each grooming session to make it a positive experience. As they get older, follow a brushing routine to keep their coats in top shape. Enjoy this special time bonding together! The first vaccinations, called the primary vaccinations, are given when a dog is eight weeks old, but you need to prepare for their appointment and make scheduling arrangements. Make an appointment now for these vaccines and a health check. Until your pup has had the first full set of vaccinations, they should stay in your home and yard only. Eight weeks old is considered the safe age to bring a new puppy home. Your main priority is to keep your baby safe and healthy. You have a long life ahead with your Shepherd baby. One in three dogs needs vet treatment every year source. Insurance protects you from large, unexpected bills incurred when your pup is unwell, injured, or in an accident, and helps offset routine medical treatments. Your 6-week-old German Shepherd pup is like a blank canvas waiting to be painted with tons of unforgettable moments with you. Enjoy the tail-wagging ride ahead with your six week old German Shepherd! Before you go, why not grab this helpful freebie? Download it now and take the first step toward ensuring your furry friend reaches their full potential. Your baby German Shepherd deserves the best — grab your tracker and start tracking today! A 6-week-old German Shepherd typically weighs between 7 to 15 pounds. Males tend to be on the higher end of the scale and females on the lower end. In terms of height, they are generally around 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder. Individual puppies may vary, but this provides a general guideline for their size and weight at this age. You can also add a few spoonfuls of wet dog food mixed in to encourage them to finish their meals and increase their hydration. Can I give my 6 week old German Shepherd puppy a bath? Always use a gentle, puppy-specific shampoo when you do give them a bath, and be sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid skin irritation. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppy diet: newborn For a German Shepherd puppy to develop and grow properly, it is imperative that they first nurse on their mother's milk. The first milk they receive is a protein and antibody-rich type of milk known as colostrum. This gives the puppy's immune and central nervous systems a boost. They then progress on to regular breast milk. Puppies will nurse for at least 6 to 8 weeks, gradually being weaned on to solid food at about 4 weeks. If, for any reason, the puppy cannot suckle its mother, don't give them cow or goat milk. These milks are very poor quality in comparison to a puppy's mother's milk. If your German shepherd puppy has to be prematurely weaned, a veterinarian will be able to prescribe specific infant formula and establish the appropriate dosage for your puppy. For example, a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd should not be fed the same food. This is because hese breeds have different nutritional needs. Take a look here to find out more about the diet for a prematurely weaned puppy. German Shepherd puppy diet: 1 month old From 3 to 4 weeks old, when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd puppy, we should start by letting them taste new foods and flavors. At this stage, the German Shepherd puppy's diet plan requires them to eat a special wet food for puppies. At around 6 to 8 weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy should be given a little dry dog food with water, or unseasoned chicken stock between nursing sessions. From their eighth week onward, a German Shepherd should be weaned and start feeding on solid food with a special puppy feed. The best dog food for a German Shepherd puppy is breed specific, but this may not be available everywhere. In these cases, your veterinarian can create a proper food plan for your German Shepherd puppy. At this stage, milk must be removed from the puppy's diet as it could cause diarrhea. If by any chance your dog or puppy is suffering from a bad stomach, we recommend taking a look at our article on what to do if yourt dog has diarrhea. In addition, it is vital that puppies have constant access to clean fresh water. German Shepherd puppy diet: 2 months old At two months of age, you can start to slowly decrease the moistening of your German Shepherd's dry food. Eventually, the puppy will be used to eating the food completely dry. Following the German Shepherd puppy food chart, from 2 until 4 months old, a puppy will eat 4 or 5 times a day. This has to be carried out with one very important addition: discipline. A puppy needs to learn that it will not be fed constantly throughout the day, but at specific times. We start of by placing a bowl of food down for 10 minutes, this should give the puppy enough time to finish its meal. After 10 minutes, we suggest taking the bowl of food away, even if your puppy hasn't finished eating. A puppy's food bowl must only be available to the dog for 10 minutes. This 10 minutes should be enough time for the puppy to eat all of its provided food. As already mentioned, after 10 minutes, you should take the food bowl away, even if the puppy hasn't finished eating. This pattern will introduce the puppy's food schedule and allow it an opportunity to become accustomed to particular feeding times. Accepting and adapting to a diet plan is very important for a puppy's intellectual development. It also facilitates more complex and demanding training sessions. Food for German shepherd puppies should be higher in calories, fats, proteins and calcium than adult German Shepherd dog food. This is because puppies are still growing and developing and therefore need better nutrition. German Shepherd puppy diet: food plan after 4 months Between 4 and 6 months of age, the number of meals which we have detailed in our German Shepherd puppy food chart should be reduced to 3 a day. The food quantity should be increased and an extra margin of 2 minutes to eat should be provided. The packaging of quality commercial dog food will detail the appropriate suggested amount of food for the puppy, depending on its age and weight. If you have any doubts, consult your veterinarian. You should eventually start mixing fresh food, such as meat, fish or vegetables, with the commercial dry feed. Beware of forbidden foods for dogs. Some people ask about a raw diet for a German shepherd puppy, but we recommend these such foods should always be cooked and never given to a dog raw. Meanwhile, treats for dogs should only be used as positive reinforcement during their training and learning period, never as a food supplement. Under no circumstances should you give your German Shepherd, or any dog, human food leftovers. Human food contains salt, sugar and seasoning contents which are very harmful to a dog's health. In addition, if you do offer your dog your food, it will pester you during meals [1]. For more, take a look at some of the harmful effects of treating a dog like a human. German Shepherd puppy diet: after 6 months When your German Shepherd puppy reaches 6 months of age, its daily food intake should be reduced to twice a day. When we do this we can increase the food portions and eating time accordingly. Our German Shepherd diet chart below should be taken into account depending on the age, lifestyle and size of your German Shepherd puppy. After 6 months, you should give your German Shepherd puppy shatterproof bones, such as beef, to gnaw on. For more, take a look here for more about; Bones For Puppies. German shepherd puppy: Dog food and water bowl hygiene Your puppy's food and drink containers should always be clean. Hygiene is very important in order to prevent the appearance of insects. If you notice that your puppy has not eaten for three consecutive meals, consult your veterinarian immediately. This lack of appetite in a puppy could be caused by bowel obstruction and stomach pain; due to the ingestion of toxic food etc. Don't forget that puppies are very sensitive and fragile and if you ignoring any symptoms of disease, it can result in severe issues or even puppy fatality. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppies should be socialized and trained to live with you from day one. These dogs are incredibly capable and have the ability, if trained properly, to learn tricks and perform activities [2]. In addition to the diet of a German Shepherd, don't forget the importance of preventative medicines, following the appropriate vaccination schedules and general German Shepherd dog care. For more information about your German shepherd, take a look at.Can I give my 6 week old German Shepherd puppy a bath? German Shepherds are the most recognizable and loved dog breed. They are known for their intelligence, strength, courage, and loyalty. However, a 6 week old German Shepherd puppy differs a lot from an adult dog. These puppies are born blue-eyed and black-coated. All of them are cute and clumsy when they reach six months. They require a lot of attention from a breeder or new owner. This guide will tell you how to deal with such a puppy if you adopt it at this age. You need to be aware of giving care, feeding, exercising, and training. You will find all this information here to raise a healthy dog and enjoyable companion. Though, it grows and gains weight very quickly. In general, such puppies are inches cm high. The six-week-old German Shepherd weight may differ between genders. Male puppies can approximately weigh 3. However, you need to know that every individual doggy is different, so the growth and weight gaining may differ too. The main factors that influence growth are genetic ones. Your 6-week-old pup resembles a tiny ball full of curiosity and energy. At this age, the puppy is completely weaned from its mother. Its ears are soft and floppy. It has almost all its baby teeth now. So, it can feed on more solid food. The puppy is still dark, but its natural color begins to appear. The puppy can start shedding, so you need to groom and brush it regularly. However, you can adopt it now if you know properly how to take care of such a young baby. While staying with its mom and littermates, the puppy socializes and learns canine etiquette. The breeder may start to introduce new people to it, and you can play with the puppy you have chosen for a while. It prepares the doggy for meeting and accepting a new owner. However, if you have adopted the pup at this age, you need to be very careful, especially during the first days in your home. The puppy is very playful and curious, so it can get into trouble. GS puppies need a lot of sleep when they are 6 weeks old because they grow fast. The required amount of sleep is hours per day. The little one will sleep, eat, and play all the time, so organize a quiet, safe, and peaceful place for it in your home. The first thing to know is that a puppy needs a safe and warm place to sleep and rest. It should be a special space of its own. You can put it in a crate next to your bed for the very first nights in your house. However, you have to teach it to sleep in another room soon. Follow these tips to arrange a sleeping place for your little doggy: Think about a special area in your house without loud noise and heavy traffic around. Locate the bed in the corner of the room and place a warm blanket or pad in it. Invite the doggy to sit on its bed for a while and then praise it and give it a treat. Crate training is essential at this age because even if you are not going to keep your dog in a crate, there may be special situations, such as veterinary care or grooming, when they will need to stay in a crate for some time. A 6 week old GSD cannot walk outside at this age because they have not been vaccinated yet. They can easily catch a severe virus or infection. So, take your puppy outside in your arms and let it do its business in a completely clean area somewhere in your backyard away from other dogs and strange people. Long walks are not for puppies at this age either. Walks can last only for 5 minutes. Two sessions can be enough. Take care of exercising. Do it smoothly, never run or jog, and let your pet take its own pace. If it stops to sniff something or for a rest, let it do it. Sniffing is very good for brain development. Never let your puppy climb stairs because it has poor coordination and can fall and injure itself. You can use some other ways of exercising instead of walking a lot. Play fetch with it indoors or in the backyard. Use a soft toy for this. Never pull your doggy or jerk it to prevent neck injuries. You can also hide a treat in the grass and ask your pup to find it. The doggy will do it eagerly, and this will help it to develop balance and coordination. Never make it go on far walks. Let it explore the environment slowly and comfortably in a safe and entirely secure area. There is no need to wash your dog or give it a bath. It is even dangerous for health because bathing can wash out the oils protecting the skin from unfavorable external conditions. That can lead to infections or severe itching. If your puppy really needs a bath, use soft bath wipes to remove dirt. Try not to use shampoo. If you want to do it, utilize only hypoallergenic shampoo for puppies. Never let water penetrate its ears or be splashed on the face because your little doggy is very sensitive to ear infections. Use soft puppy wipes or a piece of cotton cloth to wash their face. Do not pour water on the face because there is a risk of inhaling it and developing respiratory issues. At first, your puppy may not like bathing or grooming. Make grooming sessions short and be patient and positive. You can extend the sessions if you need them later on when your puppy grows older and does not oppose them. You will need a soft and safe brush at this age. The best solution is a brush glove. Your doggy will love it. You can make up a special brushing schedule and go step-by-step like this: Apply brushing gloves for a few minutes. Do brushing for 5 minutes 3 times per week. Offer a treat if your puppy behaves well during the brushing. Try to establish bonds with your puppy while brushing. You can follow the same routines when your pup grows older. Health and Vaccination Responsible breeders recommend finding a good vet as soon as you take a puppy home. Do not postpone the first visit to the vet for a long time. You can do it on the second or third day after you get the puppy. The first thing to do is to measure and weigh your doggy. Make it a routine because you and your vet will need to follow its healthy growth and weight gaining. The primary vaccination is usually given at the age of 8 months, but you can do it earlier. The schedule can shift depending on the state of the teeth, heart, and coat. So, a thorough examination is necessary. Before your pup is vaccinated, do not take it outside and communicate with other animals and people. There is a risk of infections. Your veterinarian will also advise you on brushing and grooming, cleaning ears, teeth, and anal sacs, trimming the nails, and checking paw pads. If you see that your pup has stopped growing or gaining weight, you need to show it to the vet immediately. There should be at least 3 meals per day, but 4 meals are ideal. Look at the package attentively. The number of calories in the kibble depends on the brand. If your dog likes goat milk, you can continue giving the milk to it throughout the entire life. It is full of nutrients, so your puppy will grow strong and healthy. Your dog needs a lot of water. Unlike the food that should be offered at certain times of the day, water can be poured into a bowl continuously. If you need to make any changes in your six week old German Shepherd puppy feeding , do it gradually because any abrupt change can lead to stomach upset. If your GS puppy refuses to eat, there may be some health problems. If you notice stumbling, vomiting, lethargy, and any inability to deal with food go and see a vet. How to Train a 6 Week Old GSD When you bring the little puppy home, your first idea may be to get it settled and accustomed for several days and then start home training. It is a mistake. You can start potty training , crate training, and socialization right away. This will help you establish closer bonds with your pet. Remember that your puppy has arrived from the well-set environment created by its mother-dog and littermates. Now, it needs to get used to something completely new for it. Potty training is essential from the first days. However, such little puppies may not succeed very much at first. They are more confident about potty walks at the age of 7- 8 weeks. Their bladder will be much stronger at that time. However, you have to start now. The first thing to do is to establish a set potty schedule. The schedule and main principles of potty training may look like this: Take the puppy outside early in the morning. Take it out late at night before it goes to bed. Go on a potty walk 10 minutes after it eats or drinks something. Always praise and treat your doggy after it does its business. Never scold or punish your little one if it has an accident inside. If you watch your puppy attentively, you will learn to notice when it needs a potty. It is a great way to prevent potty accidents. It may look exciting, go around in circles like looking for something and keep its nose close to the ground. Or it may start looking at the corner of the room as if it wants to find the right place for its needs. If you have noticed any of these signs, take your pet out immediately. You can start the obedience training too. That is why it will not be able to follow all your commands successfully. You need to be patient enough to never shout at your doggy if it fails to do what you want it to. It is too small, and its intelligence will be revealed a bit later. You can start with the two basic things to teach your pup, and then, only after it succeeds, continue with something more. Do not make training sessions too long — 2 minutes is enough. Though, you need to practice them about times per day. Do not utilize a training collar yet. If your pet does not display any interest in the commands, do not force it to follow them. You can try later when its attention span develops. Your little puppy does not look like an adult dog. It is too small. However, it is much bigger than puppies belonging to other breeds. Its height is inches cm. However, it may vary depending on some genetic or breeding factors. How much does a 6 week old German Shepherd weight? Males grow a bit bigger and at 6 weeks they can weigh 3. Females are smaller — their weight is about 3 pounds 6 kg. How much should a 6 week old German Shepherd eat? A 6-week-old GSD puppy grows very fast. So, it needs a lot of energy because its skeleton strengthens, teeth grow, and it needs a lot of energy. How often do I feed a 6 week old German Shepherd? That is why divide the daily amount of food per meals. There is no need to give your doggy a regular bath at this age. If your pup got extremely dirty, you can bathe it with warm water. However, do not use any shampoo. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog.

Blue-Eyed Golden Retrievers Could Suffer From A Medical Problem Golden retrievers are susceptible to several different health issues , some of which could cause them to appear to have blue eyes. Here are a few of them: Cataracts Cataracts are clouding of the lens of the eye that can leave them looking cloudy or blue. They may develop from disease, injury, old age, or genetic disorders. The bigger and denser they become, the more likely they are to lead to blindness, so bring your dog to the vet if you think they may have cataracts. Nuclear Sclerosis Many dog owners get cataracts and nuclear sclerosis mixed up. This is because they both give a cloudy, bluish hue to the eye. Glaucoma Glaucoma is a disease where the pressure in the eye is above normal levels. There are several potential causes, including injury or tumors, and it may lead to blindness. And like nuclear sclerosis and cataracts, glaucoma may cause the eyes to become cloudy or bluish in color. It could be a serious problem that could cause blindness. Good breeders are focused on the health and temperament of the puppies, and everything else is secondary. Conclusion Golden retrievers normally have brown eyes, not blue eyes. Have any questions about blue-eyed golden retrievers? Let me know down in the comments! Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Related articles:. So while a dog like a Chihuahua Great Dane mix is possible with medical intervention, looking for purebred black Golden Retrievers for sale will disappoint. Anybody claiming their black puppies are purebreds are likely trying to scam you, so be careful. It is possible that Golden Retrievers get a pigment somatic mutation that can cause a black patch of fur. But this will never make their entire body black. Golden retrievers have a specific genetic makeup that produces their characteristic golden coat color. This means that they can only produce puppies with red or cream-colored coats. In short, if you see a dog resembling a black Golden Retriever, it is probably a different Retriever breed, called the Flat-Coated Retriever, with a signature black coat. The other possibility is that it is a Golden Retriever crossed with another breed with a dominant black gene. Rare colors like Merle could only result from outcrossing with dogs like Australian Shepherds. When two different breeds are bred together, the resulting puppies can inherit a wide range of traits from both parents, making it difficult to predict their temperament, health, and physical appearance. In short, obtaining a puppy from an ethical breeder who is knowledgeable about the breed and committed to producing healthy, well-socialized puppies is always essential. Dogs have various gene pairs called alleles that determine their coat color and patterns. Coat genetics is complicated, so we will only cover the two essential major genes determining Golden Retriever colors. Firstly, black dogs have a kind of pigment called eumelanin, while red or yellow dogs have a pigment called pheomelanin. Goldens only have gene for pheomelanin, which means they can only be shades of red or cream never black. This is unlike their black Labrador or Flat-Coated Retriever cousins that have dominant black coat genes. The gene for black coloring is the E-locus gene, which is a dominant gene. So all purebred Golden Retrievers have a recessive gene that ensures their signature golden cream, yellow, and red coloring. You can only get a black dog from a Golden Retriever parent by crossing them with a dog with a dominant E-locus gene. The problem with this is that the gene for a black coat is a dominant gene, not a recessive one. This dominant E-locus has been bred out of the Golden Retriever bloodline and true Goldens only have recessive genes for cream, yellow, and red coats as per their breed standard. Finally, how rich or intense their color is, is determined by their recessive dilute gene. Dogs with dilute genes will be a light cream color, and those without may be rich dark red color. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. Just like the black Golden Retriever, silver or blue is not a color that exists in purebred Golden Retrievers. Silver, blue, or gray are dilute versions of the black color gene. To get a Golden Retriever that has this color variation, you would likely have to mix them with a silver dog like a Weimaraner or rare blue German Shepherd or Blue Bay Shepherd. There is no such this as a white or platinum Golden Retriever. English Cream is the lightest color you can get, which is nearly white, but is a very dilute yellow color. It is unclear if any albino Golden Retrievers exist, and if they do, it is exceptionally rare. Albinism in dogs is a genetic mutation where they lack any pigment in the skin. The Flat-Coated Retriever looks exceptionally similar to the Golden Retriever, with glossy black coats instead of shades of gold. These dogs are slightly more independent, have longer noses, have a sleeker build, and are generally more energetic. Are there Green Golden Retriever Puppies? In , the internet went wild over a picture of a newborn green Golden Retriever puppy called Forest. This natural discharge would simply wash off over time. Golden Retrievers are one of many dogs that get patches of pigment on their tongues, causing a black or purple spot. This is usually not more than a birthmark or a freckle and is nothing to worry about. This color is more common in European bloodlines, and some breeders specialize in producing English cream golden retrievers. This color is still considered within the range of acceptable colors for the breed, and it does not represent a distinct genetic mutation or variation. This color is deeper and richer than the typical golden or red shades, and some breeders selectively breed for this color. However, like the English cream color, it is still a standard color for Golden Retrievers. While coat color can be an interesting and appealing aspect of a dog, it should never be the sole reason for choosing a particular breed or breeder. Final Thoughts The idea of a black Golden Retriever or silver or any other color is charming, but there is no way for this to happen in purebred dogs. Suppose you do come across a black golden retriever. Dogs should be bred for health and temperament before color, which is the most important thing to look for when buying any puppy. Alternatively, adopting a rescue dog is always a good option. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Got Questions? Weimaraner Husky Suppose you mix a Golden Retriever or a Lab with one — or more — of these breeds mixes. In that case, the chances are high that the result could be a blue-eyed mixed breed Golden Retriever. Blue eyes in a Golden Retriever can be linked to health conditions in their eyes. While this might not always be the case, there are a few issues to keep in mind. A few of them are: Cataracts A cataract is an eye illness when the eye lens becomes cloudy, leaving the eyes looking blue or cloudy. This may arise as a result of injury, genetic disorders, disease, or old age. The denser and bigger they become, the more likely it is for them to lead to blindness. Glaucoma Glaucoma is an illness where the eye pressure has levels that are higher than normal. It can be caused by a few potential events, such as tumors or injury, and can also lead to blindness. It could be a serious issue that could cause blindness. Nuclear Sclerosis Nuclear sclerosis and cataracts are often confused by many dog owners. Learn more about Types and Colors of Golden Retrievers. Albino animals have a deficiency of the genes that produce melanin, which is the pigment that gives color to the skin and hair. Albinism is very rare in dogs. In dogs, albinism is more likely to give them blue eyes. Albino dogs also have white fur and pink noses. There is a possibility where two purebred Golden Retriever parents can have an albino puppy. This would be one rare case where a dog with blue eyes could be a non-conforming Golden Retriever. It is extremely rare for Golden Retrievers to have albinism. Therefore, most Golden Retrievers with blue eyes are indeed Golden Retriever mixes. They include only dogs with brown eyes, where dark brown is preferred over light or medium brown. Therefore, if light brown is not considered acceptable, blue eyes have no chance. There are many puppy scams on the internet so be very cautious. They will claim these versions of dogs are rare and worth more. Conclusion To summarize, golden retrievers are not supposed to have blue eyes. The breed standard is brown eyes. There are three things to keep in mind when looking to get a blue eyed Golden Retriever: The eyes of a Golden Retriever puppy will change to the color brown as they grow older. Blue eyed Golden Retrievers could be the result of health issues. Most Golden Retrievers with blue eyes are the result of mixing with another breed of dog. If you wish to have a blue-eyed dog , then a husky or another breed with the tendency for blue eyes is a possible choice. Another choice would be to find a mixed breed dog, we would just advise to avoid paying a premium for those dogs and enjoy them for what they are. If you have concerns about the health of your dogs eyes, be sure to visit your veterinarian. To learn more about Golden Retrievers health issues, be sure to check out our post on Common Health Problems. She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Boxer Pitbull You can see just how many dog breeds have the blue-eyed gene in their makeup, and some of these breeds even allow this genetic presentation in registered dogs. You will need to make sure that the breeder can provide you with accurate information about the blue-eyed dogs that they are selling so you can look into the possible health concerns that your dog might show later on. Golden Retrievers have their own common breed health issues , but you need to be aware of the risks related to the other parent as well. Remember also that these other breeds have their own specific temperaments that they were bred with for purposes like hunting, protection, and so forth. This can impact the attitude and temperament of the dog that you are getting from this breeder. The differences in your Golden Retriever from breed standard might be more significant than just the blue eyes. If you are looking for a kind, sweet, loyal family dog, you might still get this kind of pet from a breeder making blue-eyed Golden Retrievers, but it is less likely. There can be many changes to the way that your dog acts, the way they feel about kids and cats in your home, and more just related to the other breed that is mixed with the Golden Retriever. These are the considerations that many people forget about when they are attracted to an unusual color or breed characteristic in a litter of puppies. Yes, many puppies have what look like dark blue eyes when they are born. As they get more mature, the blue color will turn to brown in purebred dogs. If you had felt a sense of panic when you went to look at your purebred puppy because its eyes appeared blue, there is no reason to be concerned. This is totally normal in very young puppies. However, if the dog that you have picked out has very blue eyes when it is approaching a few months old, this dog will likely have blue eyes for life. This is one of the things that many people have concerns about when they see pictures of a purebred litter. Rest assured that a breeder who is AKC certified will never breed blue-eyed dogs, and they will be able to prove that none of their animals has ever had blue eyes. The important thing to remember when you are dog shopping is that you should ask as many questions as it takes for you to be comfortable with your purchase. Responsible breeders will be willing to answer all the questions that you have. You should be concerned about a breeder that will not reply to questions or who seems to be cagey about answering questions about their litters. This is often a sign that something is not right, and you should consider looking for another breeder if this is the way that the breeder you are looking into is behaving. There are other reasons that a Golden Retriever might have blue eyes, and these are more concerning than just irresponsible breeding practices. You should be aware of the other reasons that this eye color might be present in a litter so that you can decide if you are interested in carrying on with getting a puppy from the litter in question. Albinism This is not common in the Golden Retriever breed, but there are albino genes in all animal populations. Responsible breeders will not sell puppies with albinism, and they will never breed the parents again that made this defect come to the forefront. These are all albino animals, and they often suffer from significant health issues throughout their life. Albino animals will have pink around their eyes in most cases, but they do not have to appear this way. Some albino dogs will just have blue eyes. Another dead giveaway, however, is the pink nose that often comes along with the albino gene. If the dog that you are looking at has blue eyes but a dark nose, it is just not purebred. If the nose is pink, it is an albino animal. Recessive Genes Brown eyes genes are dominant, so they should be expressed first when two purebred dogs are crossed. There is the chance that a dog that should not have been registered as purebred can land in the gene pool and create a recessive litter, but this is very uncommon. Most dog breeds that have been accepted by the AKC with the standard for brown eyes have been so carefully bred that this is not a concern. Again, just as with albino animals, responsible breeders will never allow these animals with recessive genes to be sold to new homes. It is always a red flag when a breeder is offering a blue-eyed litter of Golden Retrievers for sale because of the health risks associated with animals with recessive genes. Cataracts This was mentioned earlier, but it is worth some more discussion. Golden Retrievers are a breed that is prone to eye issues, and there are some unethical breeders that might offer litters of puppies for sale that have eye defects. These usually become worse over time, and they can lead to a cloudy, bluish eye appearance. Make sure that you do not look at young puppies who are showing signs of an eye defect and think that they are blue-eyed. A good way to check the difference between blue eyes and eyes with health issues is to take the dog over to the light and look at their eyes. Blue eyes will look clear and normal, while eyes with health issues will appear cloudy and dull and without sheen. This is a great way to check this claim by a breeder to make sure that you are not being given an animal that will actually be blind early in life. This can be all right, but you need to be aware that when you support irresponsible breeders, they continue to make more of the same litters with the same potential health concerns. Your dog will also likely have more health problems during its life, and you should be prepared for a pet that might not have a normal lifespan. When you choose not to engage with breeders who are not responsible, you will also be helping to preserve these carefully-bred animals that are created with care by other breeders. While a Golden Retriever puppy from a skilled breeder will never have blue eyes, you will be getting a dog who represents the breed, and that was created with care. Responsible breeders will also take the time to certify their dogs for all kinds of health conditions, and they will stand by their pet animals if something happens that makes your dog a poor fit for your needs. The protections and benefits of shopping with a skilled breeder are numerous, and you will always be better served by paying a little more and avoiding dogs that have blue eyes. If you are really sold on having a dog that has blue eyes, there are so many breeds that can have blue eyes without having questionable breeding. Huskies, Aussies, and Border Collies can have blue eyes and still be purebred. There are many other options as well for this kind of trait if you want to have a blue-eyed dog that you can trust the breeder to have created with care. While a lot of these breeds will not offer you the same sweet, kind, and gentle temperament that a Golden Retriever can offer, you will still have a loving companion in your home that has the blue eyes that you were looking for. There is nothing good to be gained by supporting unethical breeders, and you will find that your puppy might not be very healthy either. While it can be tempting to just get one anyhow because you think that they are cute or because you feel bad for them, be sure that you are prepared for what this purchase might mean. Your dog could enjoy a healthy and full life with you, or they might be very sickly and have lots of problems that a dog that comes from a quality breeder will not. It is usually worth reaching out to some other recognized breeders if you notice that there is someone offering blue-eyed Golden Retrievers for sale. These breeders are very motivated to help regulate their own breeding community, and they can reach out to the breeder. Sometimes local breeders who are not registered with the AKC do not realize that this is a no-no. This is a better method of handling this issue than telling the breeder yourself that they are not providing puppies that will be healthy. Taking on a dog with a genetic defect can be a really tough process, which is why there are rescues that are devoted to this process. If you really want to get a blue-eyed Golden Retriever, you should contact shelters that specialize in these kinds of dogs and get a puppy from a shelter. This will support the effort to end this kind of irresponsible breeding, and you will get the blue-eyed dog that you have been wanting. Golden Retriever Recommendations and Resources.

Check out our available puppies. Moose has made everyday an adventure!! He is the funniest, happiest and sweetest puppy I have ever seen. I did not think dogs could become such a big part of your heart, but we can not imagine life without him! Morgan: When we first got Lola we had no idea she was going to become so spoiled and run the house!! Our family loves her so much!! She loves to play, run and cuddle. Lola has the best temperament and we can take her anywhere!! She never meets a stranger and is really great with kids. She can definitely be a handful at times. Like when she is having too much fun outside. But, we would not trade her for anything!! They are so personable, and each one has her own personality. They are always glad to see us. They love snuggling when we sit on the couch. They love it when they get to travel with us whether it is a trip to the store or across the country. They are always excited to load up in the truck. They get along well with our cats and love to meet other people. They can have fun no matter where they are. They are so much fun to just hang our with. They are like sweet, funny, cuddly tanks. They can be zooming around the house one minute and snuggled up on my lap the next. For me, Frenchies are the perfect dog!! We produce all of the brindles in black, blue, chocolate, lilac , fawns and sables in golden, red, blue, chocolate, lilac , creams, pure coats and tan points in black, blue, chocolate, lilac , and pieds in ALL of these beautiful colors! Call Us Are you ready to own the most popular dog breed in the U. We appreciate you visiting our site, whether you have been here many times in the past, or if this is the first time you have paid us a visit. We hope that the time you spend with us will be enjoyable, and that you will feel it is worth your time and effort. Of course, we invite you to come back as often as time permits, as we have provided a lot of information regarding the French Bulldog, and we doubt if you will cover everything in one visit. Under Owner Information, you will find a lot of information to help you determine if the French Bulldog is the breed for you. There are also FAQs for New Owners, if you have made the decision to adopt one of these wonderful dogs. Under Owner Info, you will also find several products that we use and highly endorse. We then have the unpleasant talk about scammers, who are rampant in the puppy arena, especially regarding French Bulldog puppies. If you see a deal that sounds too good to be true, there is a .It breaks our hearts every time we are contacted by someone who has been scammed, or nearly scammed. Please be careful. Lastly, under Owner Info, you will find information regarding our contract and our guarantee, which we believe is one of the best available, and it is the least we will do in the unlikely event that there is a problem with one of our dogs. Under Our Frenchies, you will find information regarding our breeding males, our females which have puppies on the ground, and retirees that are ready for their forever homes. We are very proud of the breeding male and females we have assembled. You can click on Former Puppies and scroll down to see a few examples of all of the various colors that Frenchies come in that we have produced in the past. We know that the different colors can be a bit confusing, so we have tried to make it as straight forward as possible. The only problem is that there are so many gorgeous colors that they come in, a decision regarding color preferences can be difficult .Also, under Our Frenchies, you can click on New Puppies to see all of our currently available puppies, along with a list of the litters that are born, but not yet introduced. We have placed multiple puppies in every state of the union except Hawaii, as they have a very long quarantine period. We have been using very responsible puppy nannies for years to deliver puppies to major airports all over the country, for very reasonable rates. We would love to work with you to place the perfect little Frenchie in your home. Some of our puppies, especially very specific requests, are placed with clients on our waiting list, but many are available to potential clients that are looking for puppies right away. If you are looking for a high-quality Frenchie puppy, please contact us and we will send information which will help you determine if we might be the breeder for you. We will do our best to help you adopt the Frenchie of your dreams. We do not post earlier videos. All of the puppies shown in the videos will have had their vet checks and will be available for adoption with the exception of a few that we may belatedly decide to hold back. Generally, those that we will be holding back will not be included in the videos. As a reminder to each of our Waiting List clients who have passed on prior puppies due to poor timing, when you are ready for your puppy, please let us know so we do not bypass your name when we are placing new litters. Meeting the puppy Nanny was easy and smooth at the airport! Hank was love at first sight. Happy Holidays! Just thought I would write to give you an update on our Dieter. Thank you again for doing what you do, and raising such amazing dogs! Dieter is loved by all who meet him, and he has met several people on his adventures this year. He is such a mischievous, but entertaining boy. He is the sweetest, craziest, cutest, cuddliest, puppy! Hi everyone! Just wanted to give you guys an update on Hank Mowgli. He is the center of every minute in my girls day. There were tears of joy and excitement — it was wonderful! Night went well — I had my hand in her kennel so she could sleep — she would make sure it was there and then fall back to […] Danielle, Rich and Rowan Hi BlueHaven!! Hope all is well! Rich and I would like to thank you for the care and love you put into your breeding program. Rowan is a healthy and fun-loving Frenchie! We hope all is well in your neck of the woods. All is well here. Originally, when we listed our preferred colors, we did not select brindle, but as you can see, once we saw GiGi, […] Catherine, Nick, Kolbie, Natty, and Dieter Dieter had an awesome first night. Hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving! Just wanted to send an update on Pearl formerly Sinah. At nearly 4 months old now; Pearl is doing very, very well. She had her 3rd series of shots and vet check last week and is perfectly healthy.

Articles Sit. Heal German Shepherd Hip Dysplasia Signs and Treatments Muscular, intelligent, and loyal, German shepherds are steadfast guardians and all-purpose workers. Highly trainable and obedient, German shepherds provide a range of services—excelling as show dogs and household companions, as well as military and search and rescue animals. Exuding confidence, this breed is royalty of the dog family. They are susceptible, however, to challenging hip and joint issues like hip dysplasia any time from puppyhood all the way through maturation. As with many large breed dogs, German shepherds are prone to canine hip dysplasia CHD , a dog skeletal condition that can be inherited or caused by a traumatic fracture or other environmental factors. CHD occurs from malformation of the ball and joint socket of one or both hips the hip joint is called the coxofemoral joint. If so, it maybe be because of breeding. The exaggerated hind leg angulation is often bred into the dog because of standards that dictate rear legs upper and lower thighs should come as close to a degree angle as possible. Along these same lines, a sloping back causes hindquarters to become more angulate and, thus, prone to lower back pain. These bent legs could point toward one of many health problems, one of which is hip dysplasia. Although irreversible, canine hip dysplasia can be monitored and treated to reduce chronic pain. According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals , .The progression of it and the treatment options available depend on a number of factors, including the degree of misalignment and age of the dog. CHD has a range of signs, depending on the severity of the disease and degree of looseness in the joint. The severity also ranges from mild to extreme pain—some German shepherds even have to use a wheelchair. CHD Treatment Options Dog hip dysplasia surgery for severe cases in medium to large dogs can be expensive. If invasive surgery is not the best choice for your dog, look into non-surgical, conservative management options, such as dog leg braces, physical therapy, weight control, acupuncture, anti-inflammatories, and massage therapy. Ortho Dog specializes in flexible, adjustable, and affordable dog leg braces. Additionally, leg braces for hip dysplasia may slow the progression of this chronic issue. Is a Hip Hound Brace right for your pup? Designed for dogs who suffer from arthritis and mild to moderate hip dysplasia. Below are four common disorders of the hip and joint commonly seen in this breed: Degenerative Myelopathy As a German shepherd owner, you have likely heard of the fatal, chronic, and progressive disease called degenerative myelopathy that is most prevalent in this breed. Typically apparent between the ages of , degenerative myelopathy is a neurological disorder that affects the spinal cord and muscle coordination, ultimately leading to paralysis of the back legs within months. CHD shares several symptoms with early stages of degenerative myelopathy, including difficulty rising and jumping, and progressive weakness of hind limbs. As with any signs that something may be off with your dog, contact your veterinarian for a full exam. Canine Myasthenia Gravis A rare neuromuscular disease, canine myasthenia gravis is a disorder of the signal transmission between nerves and muscles, resulting in progressive muscle weakness, and fatigue with mild exercise. This disease is not typically confused with CHD because the signs tend to show up on the face more than the hindquarters. This incorrect movement can put a strain on their hips, which causes them to walk with an irregular gait. Our Hock Holder brace offers stabilization and support to the hock to help relieve stress. Osteoarthritis Most often seen in senior dogs, osteoarthritis is the inflammation of the hip joints due to cartilage deterioration. You may notice your dog moving a bit more slowly and having trouble with stairs. With less cartilage, bones can grind against each other and cause inflammation. Much like a human wearing a wrist or hand brace for arthritis, the Ortho Dog Hip Hound brace limits the movement of the joint, which helps with the pain. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Hip dysplasia HD is a disease of the hip coxofemoral joints. Dysplasia means abnormal development. Both hips are usually affected Brass .It is a complex disease that results from a combination of genes that predispose a dog to developing hip dysplasia interacting with environmental factors that lead to its full development and expression Riser .It is characterized by hip joint instability which, if compounded by environmental factors, then results in secondary osteoarthritis and the clinical signs of hip dysplasia which include pain, lameness and disability Zhang et al .To fully understand hip dysplasia, it is necessary to understand the structure of the hip joint. The hip joint is the joint at the top of the hind leg, where it articulates forms a joint with the pelvis. It is described as a ball and socket joint, as in normal hips the ball-shaped head of the femur the thigh bone fits perfectly into a cup-shaped socket in the pelvis, the acetabulum. The head of the femur femoral head and the acetabulum are normally covered with cartilage which produces a smooth, low friction surface. Within the joint there is also a fine layer of synovial fluid that acts as a lubricant between these cartilaginous surfaces. This thin layer of synovial fluid, along with the round ligament a ligament that runs round the edge of the acetabulum — between the acetabulum and the femur , keeps the two cartilaginous surfaces together by creating a suction-like effect. The ligaments and the joint capsule also help to hold the ball and socket closely together. In newborn puppies, because the bones are soft and not fully ossified turned into bone as they need to grow and develop, they are still deformable if abnormal movements or stresses and strains occur in them. Riser suggests that, in a normal six month old individual, ossification of the bones and soft tissue strength the strength of the surrounding ligaments, joint capsule and muscles have developed enough to prevent hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is described as a biomechanical disease. The hips appear normal at birth. However, in affected individuals, the hips develop abnormally due, at first, to joint instability sometimes called joint laxity Riser .This means that the developing femoral head and acetabulum are not held constantly, closely together, and can move into abnormal positions relative to one another. This puts abnormal stresses and strains on the joint. Riser states this is due to the soft tissues, such as ligaments and muscle, not being strong enough to maintain congruity between the articular surfaces of the femoral head and the acetabulum ie the constant contact between the surfaces of the bones is not maintained. The pathological changes seen due to the joint instability are progressive inflammation and degeneration of the tissues that together form the joint. Brass details the following changes in the joint: The joint capsule can become thickened and the round ligament can become stretched or ruptured leading to additional, excessive movements. The synovial fluid increases in volume and changes in nature, due to inflammation, this pushes the joint surfaces apart. The cartilage on the bone surfaces gets worn away exposing subchondral bone the layer of bone beneath the surface cartilage. Unlike cartilage, bone contains nerve endings and such exposure will commonly cause pain. The rim of the acetabulum becomes damaged and flattened and later new bone starts to grow here as the body tries to stabilize the joint. The femoral head becomes deformed and flattened and also grows abnormal bone called exotoses or osteophytes. This changing of the shape of the joint with new bone growing in abnormal positions, and being lost in others, is called joint remodelling. The signs that are seen with hip dysplasia can vary hugely in their severity, the age at which they first appear and their progression. In mild cases dogs can be free from clinical signs for years; however, for more severely affected individuals, signs of pain can develop whilst they are still immature less than a year old Signs include acute pain, particularly after strenuous exercise or movement. This may show as lameness or reluctance to jump, to go for walks, climb steps or move at all if really severe. The pain may be worse in cold, wet conditions Brass .These signs may start intermittently, but over time can become constant. Muscle wastage is often seen in the hindlegs Brass .There appears to be little correlation between the severity of pain shown by the dog and physical abnormalities felt on examination by a vet or revealed on an x-ray Brass ie some dogs can be in severe pain but have few changes on x-rays and vice versa. This is typical of any joint disease. Controlling food intake during growth has been shown to decrease hip dysplasia in Labradors ie by reducing excessive energy intake and therefore excessive weight gain during growth Kealy et al .High calcium intake during growth has been shown to delay maturation of the skeleton and increase the risk of hip dysplasia in Great Danes Hazewinkel .It is thought that controlling the amount and form of exercise during development may also help Corr .Bennett and May suggest excessive exercise during development can lead to hip dysplasia. Treatment for hip dysplasia is complex; many surgical interventions have been developed to prevent signs appearing in young animals with high joint laxity and to treat dogs with severe osteoarthritis. All need specialist surgeons. Various medications to aid pain relief are also available, along with recommendations to reduce the effect of environmental factors. Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact Though some dogs may be mildly affected, for many German Shepherd dogs with hip dysplasia, the impact of the condition is major and life changing. These animals suffer pain that is severe and debilitating, leading them to be in pain even with small everyday movements such as standing up. Their quality of life is severely affected so that they are unable to enjoy normal canine behaviours such as walking and running. It is not uncommon for dogs to be euthanased due to the pain and disability of arthritis associated with hip dysplasia. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact Hip dysplasia is a progressive disease with signs seen from any age. For some dogs pain starts before a year of age. Signs may be intermittent to start with but often progress to be constant. Medical treatment and advice can help control pain and possibly slow progression, though a cure can only be obtained with major surgical intervention in dogs that are considered suitable candidates for such surgery. Return to top 4. Number of animals affected Hip dysplasia is the most common joint problem of large dogs Smith et al .UK VetCompass data for dogs overall, showed that 7. In this sample, diagnosis of conditions affecting the pelvis eg hip dysplasia did not significantly differ between purebred and crossbred dogs. Figures vary greatly for how frequently German Shepherds are affected by hip dysplasia, depending on the method by which they have been screened and the database reviewed. The frequency is likely to vary for geographically different populations of the same breed Brass .However, Paster et al suggested that the OFA population was biased, as it is not compulsory for radiographed dogs to have their x-rays submitted to the OFA scheme so some owners may have had dogs pre-screened and only submitted apparently non-dysplastic ones for consideration and scoring. In this study, German Shepherd dogs had a higher odds ratio of hip dysplasia occurrence than Dobermanns, Labradors and Rottweilers, indicating that the breed is at a significantly higher risk of hip dysplasia development. Return to top 5. Diagnosis For a young dog suspected of hip dysplasia, a diagnosis can be made on the clinical signs shown at home and on examination of the dog, including assessment of joint laxity and joint pain plus evaluation of radiographs x-ray pictures of the hip joints Corr .Assessment of the joint laxity and radiographs may need to be performed by a specialist vet who is used to checking for this condition. For a formal diagnosis, the radiographs are usually submitted to a panel for evaluation. There are three methods of assessing joint laxity. Radiographs and assessment of joint laxity need to be performed under heavy sedation or anaesthesia Corr .Return to top 6. Genetics Hip dysplasia in dogs is a polygenic disease; many genes are thought to play a role in its development. Most of these genes probably have small additive effects quantitative, polygenes and some probably have larger effects Zhang et al .Heritability estimates are used to demonstrate how much variation in a phenotypic trait is due to genetic variation among individuals in a population. Using hip scores published by the British Veterinary Association, heritability for hip scores of German Shepherd dogs was 0. Genes are not solely responsible for whether a dog with the genetic potential for hip dysplasia develops the condition. Environmental factors play an important part. They are discussed in the clinical and pathogenic effects section above. However, there are significant breed predispositions to this condition and the German Shepherd dog is one of the breeds affected. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? There are a number of breeding schemes around the world developed to decrease the incidence of hip dysplasia in dog breeds. These schemes assess potential breeding animals in somewhat different ways. All aim to give breeders and owners a strong indication of which dogs are likely to produce healthy offspring and which should not be bred. However, this is by no means straightforward for hip dysplasia as it is a polygenic condition in which the genetics are poorly understood and which is also affected by environmental factors in a major way. This lack of clarity has produced much debate over the best way to assess potential breeding dogs. A brief summary of the various schemes follows including some current evidence for their benefits. All dogs must be at least 12 months of age. There are nine radiographic features which are scored, including the Norberg angle NA - a measurement for hip laxity taken from the EHR and each dog is given a score out of 53 for each hip total of up to for both. A low score indicates healthy hip joints eg Greyhounds would score 0, as is not seen in this breed and a higher score indicates worse hip dysplasia. Breeders are recommended to only breed from animals with a score lower than the breed medianscore e. It is also based on an extended hip radiograph EHR , which is then graded by three independent experts to give an overall grade. All dogs must be over 2 years of age to be assessed. There are seven possible grades for the radiograph: excellent, good, fair, borderline, mild, moderate or severe hip dysplasia. Dogs must be between 1 and 2 years of age and the radiograph is graded by someone appointed by each breed club — they do not have to be an expert. Grades include: A- no signs of hip dysplasia, B — near normal hip joints, C — mild hip dysplasia, D — moderate hip dysplasia, E — severe hip dysplasia. Older dogs can be assessed but the likelihood of more secondary osteoarthritic changes is taken into account. Dogs from 4 months of age can be assessed. It involves the assessment of three different radiographic views of the hip joints called the distraction view, the compression view and the EHR. The radiograph must be taken by a vet who is registered with the scheme and the radiographs are assessed by vets at the PennHIP Analysis Center. Dogs with a DI lower than 0. Dogs with increasing DI values over 0. Advocates of the PennHIP method like it because it accurately identifies individuals who have hip laxity - the primary phenotypical abnormality that predisposes dogs to hip dysplasia. The other schemes only look at the EHR and though the NA can be measured from this, the NA has been shown to be an inaccurate method to assess hip laxity Culp et al .Much of what is assessed on the EHRs are secondary arthritic changes, these are not specific to hip dysplasia and are affected by many environmental factors. Recently, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have confirmed that the Distraction Index DI is a significant risk factor for the development of hip dysplasia. In other words, DI scores give a very good indication of the likelihood of osteoarthritic changes, due to hip dysplasia, developing in the future Smith and others , , , Smith , Runge et al .These and other researchers argue that the other schemes are not as good at detecting animals that have hip dysplasia as the PennHIP method and, despite older schemes existing for over 40 years, little improvement has been seen in hip dysplasia in the general pet population Corley , Kaneene et al , Leppanen et al , Paster et al .In fact, one recent study looking at a database of over 1,, dogs found an increase in the prevalence of hip dysplasia Witsberger et al .However EHR scores were found to have a much higher heritability 0. Heritability studies are difficult to compare between different populations with different environmental influences. To improve the gene pool, phenotypic traits that can be easily detected with strong links to the genotype genetic make-up of animals have to be found. Ideally, any potential pet would have had its hip joints assessed by one of the above schemes prior to purchase, although this is often unhelpful, as most pets are purchased as young puppies. Unfortunately, this does not guarantee all their offspring will be free from hip dysplasia. Certainly any potential breeding animal should be assessed prior to breeding using an appropriate scheme. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem Hip dysplasia is a complex trait which involves multiple unknown genes and environmental factors. Eradication schemes have been running in some countries for decades and still it is commonplace. Thus prospects for its quick elimination are low. In a recent study, Zhang et al suggested that using scores from four hip traits combined to create a breeding value for each animal would help speed up elimination of the condition. They felt that information on the single joint trait EHR eg the OFA scheme gave insufficient information to provide the basis for breeding decisions. The DLS is a measurement made from an x-ray taken in a weight-bearing position to measure the subluxation of the femoral head Farese et al .In this study on two populations of dogs where environmental factors were strictly controlled, heritabilities for all these traits were found to be relatively high eg heritabilities were 0. The researchers suggested these heritabilites were higher than expected due to the controlled environmental conditions. Zhang et al suggested an improved way for selectively breeding out hip dysplasia would be if breeders could be given breeding values derived from the four traits for each potential breeding animal, plus a measurement of the inbreeding of any potential mating eg the inbreeding coefficient. This way, they suggest, inbreeding can be avoided and only animals with phenotypes strongly indicative of healthy hip joint genes would be bred from. This scheme is a more organised form of others that have suggested using a combination of breeding values determined from pedigree information and phenotype score Ginja et al , Hou et al .As described by Bell , when breeders are prioritising raising dogs that have good hip dysplasia genotypes for future breeding the phenotype has to be used as a marker for the genotype. Although the diagnostic signs can be affected also by environmental factors such as feeding and exercise regimes. It is important that the puppies are raised in a standard and not excessively protective way. Otherwise, dogs that would normally have developed radiographic signs of hip dysplasia will have this masked and their genes will be perpetuated. Future development of genetic tests to help identify some of the hip dysplasia genes, along with more use of pedigree data that includes the health of ancestors and progeny for clinical signs of hip dysplasia and also for other inherited defects of German Shepherd dogs , may well help to improve methods used to eliminate this condition. Currently we have to continue to rely on choosing phenotypical traits which apparently indicate the presence of healthy genes. Return to top 9. Reviewed by Petal Smart Petal Smart is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and has been an editor in the veterinary and medical sciences since .She has edited more than assignments, including research studies published in various academic journals, continuing medical education materials, and articles on pet health. Canine hip dysplasia is most often seen in large breeds like German Shepherd dogs , Saint Bernards , and Greater Swiss Mountain dogs , but a dog of any size and both male and female dogs may be affected. The cause of canine hip dysplasia isn't known. The condition is thought to have a genetic link, and dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Puppies from parents that have hip dysplasia will be more likely to develop the condition than puppies born to parents with normal hips. However, even dogs with normal parents can develop hip dysplasia. What Is Canine Hip Dysplasia? The pelvis cradles the head of the femur thigh bone in a cup-like socket of bone that forms the hip. Puppies typically are born normal, but as the puppy matures, the hip joint alignment becomes progressively worse. This places abnormal stress and wear on the bones when they rub together, and causes further joint degeneration and pain. Bones respond to stress by growing thicker, which makes the fit even worse. As the dog matures, this damage predisposes to arthritic changes and painful joints. Signs and Symptoms Severe hip dysplasia may become noticeable as early as four months of age, but is more typically seen in pups aged 9 months to 1 year. The painful condition causes limping , favoring of limbs, and difficulty rising, running, or jumping. Dysplastic pups may exhibit an odd wobbly gait when walking and "bunny hop" when running or climbing stairs, which may help to ease joint stress. Stairs can prove a particular challenge for these dogs, and sore hips and pain may prompt aggression , causing the pup to snap or flinch when touched. However, there are degrees of severity. Some pups may show few to no signs at all, and mild cases may go undiagnosed until the dog reaches middle age or older. How quickly, or to what extent degeneration occurs is in part determined by the pup's activity level. While healthy, normal hips probably won't be adversely affected by hard work or exuberant play, the dog with mild to moderate hip dysplasia develops more noticeable signs more quickly when excessive stress is placed on these joints. Fortunately, only a relatively small percentage of pets suffer the severest, most crippling form of the condition. The condition may also be influenced by lifestyle, nutrition, body weight, and activity level. The puppy is placed on its back and the veterinarian looks for the typical arthritic changes and subluxation laxity of the joint. Some changes may not become evident until the pup reaches 2 years old, and experts say there may be considerable changes from 6 to 9 months up to 1 year. The OFA provides a consulting service for purebred dog owners and breeders, through which it reviews hip X-rays provided by an owner to evaluate the dog's conformation and, when normal, certifies that fact. The PennHip testing method, developed by Dr. Reputable breeders have dog parents tested prior to breeding to make sure they do not have hip dysplasia and reduce the chance of the condition in puppies. Dogs can be certified free of hip dysplasia by sending appropriate X-rays to either the OFA registry or the PennHip registry. This is evaluated by three radiologists who score the hips fair, good, or excellent. PennHip evaluation uses computer analysis to compare the X-rays to all the other dogs of that breed in the registry. Management of Hip Dysplasia There is no cure for hip dysplasia. Treatment is aimed at relieving pain and improving joint function. How well treatment works depends on the severity of the problem. Often, mild to moderate cases of hip dysplasia can be managed with gentle exercise, a healthy diet, and oral pain relievers like buffered aspirin or Rimadyl as prescribed by the veterinarian. Moderate exercise helps maintain and improve the puppy's muscle tone, which alleviates painful wear and tear on the joint. Encourage your dysplastic puppy to take short walks with you. Swimming is an ideal exercise, but jumping and prolonged running should be discouraged. Keep your puppy lean; obesity increases joint strain and can make the condition worse. Massage can also help the dog feel better. Severe cases of hip dysplasia may benefit from surgery that rebuilds or removes bone or alters the muscles and tendons to reduce pain. More from The Spruce Pets. If your dog qualifies for surgeries, you have even more options. Tips for Preventing Hip Dysplasia in German Shepherds Although not all cases of hip dysplasia can be prevented, a good majority can. Even if hip dysplasia is not preventable in your dog, you can use these tips to minimize pain caused by the condition. This can make a huge difference in whether your dog develops hip dysplasia. The best reputable breeders will even provide a screening for their puppies. After the screening, which can only be done after 16 weeks of age, you can know if a puppy is predisposed to hip dysplasia. From an early age, make sure to provide your dog with high-quality dog food specific for large breeds. For example, get a large-breed puppy-specific dog food when your dog is young, and switch to an adult dog food once the dog ages. Note that most senior dog foods are not generic, so your vet will be the best person to help you choose which product is best for your older German Shepherd. Only provide your dog as much food as they need, never under or over. Both malnutrition and obesity increase the risk for hip dysplasia development. If you are unsure how much to feed your dog, talk to your vet for recommendations. Right Exercise Exercise is another factor you need to consider carefully if you want to prevent hip dysplasia in your German Shepherd. Preventative Supplements Image Credit: ElenVik, Shutterstock You can begin giving preventative supplements to your dog to nourish their joints. One of the most popular is glucosamine. This supplement is prescribed to dogs with arthritis and hip dysplasia, but you can use it for preventative measures too. Of course, preventative supplements will have a lower glucosamine count than prescribed medications. Final Thoughts If you suspect that your German Shepherd is experiencing hip dysplasia, please visit the vet right away. Luckily, most German Shepherds with hip dysplasia live long and robust lives. If they get a great treatment, you can expect your dog to be happy and carefree. By starting a well-rounded prevention plan from an early age, you can help your dog grow with minimal issues. Featured Image Credit: makeitclear, Pixabay Contents. Helps with joint lubrication 4. NSAIDs Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Just like humans, dogs can benefit from taking certain pain medications to treat their hip dysplasia. In particular, NSAIDs can benefit your dog by reducing some of the pain and inflammation that hip dysplasia causes. There are some great charts available online that show you how much your German Shepherd should weigh at various stages of his life. Hard surfaces can be especially painful for your dog to walk on, so avoid walking on asphalt and sidewalks and instead take him for a walk in a grassy park. Repair and Prevent Cartilage Deterioration We mentioned cartilage a bit earlier. When your dog moves, cartilage helps cushion the joint. But it can become damaged when your dog has hip dysplasia. Over time, this cartilage deteriorates, causing pain and inflammation. Another word for this cartilage deterioration? Fortunately, certain active ingredients can help maintain joint health and reduce the likelihood that the secondary condition of arthritis will form as a result of German Shepherd hip dysplasia. In particular, the active ingredients of chondroitin and glucosamine for dogs help maintain cartilage health. These two naturally occurring substances work together to not only repair damaged cartilage but also prevent it from deteriorating in the first place. Lubricate Joints Hyaluronic acid is another key active ingredient that benefits dogs suffering from German Shepherd hip dysplasia by improving joint mobility and reducing discomfort. In particular, hyaluronic acid may help reduce the pain your dog experiences as a result of hip dysplasia. And how does it do that? Well, hyaluronic acid is an important component of synovial fluid. So it stands to reason that making sure your dog has enough hyaluronic acid is a great way to ensure his hip joints can move as smoothly as possible. But fortunately, MSM, a powerful antioxidant and building block for healthy joints, can help reduce the pain and inflammation your dog experiences from hip dysplasia. And the great news is that this ingredient is often found in joint supplements. Additionally, MSM may become even more effective when used alongside glucosamine, another common active ingredient. Yes, that is indeed our product. His once-sprightly steps may now be slightly slower, and he may have difficulty getting up after lying down. These are common signs of hip dysplasia, a congenital, degenerative joint disease that can cause significant pain and discomfort as your fur friend ages. Our Misty Mae had horrible hip dysplasia, and at 17 years old, we said farewell to her. As a result, they rub against each other out of sync instead of sliding smoothly like they are supposed to. This abnormal wear and tear eventually leads to deterioration and loss of function of the hip bone structure. Your trusted veterinarian will physically examine your dog, which may include watching your dog walk if possible , manipulating the hips, doing blood work to rule out anything else , and taking X-Rays. Treatment of Hip Dysplasia: Treatment of hip dysplasia depends on the severity. Typically, mild cases may include lifestyle changes, such as losing and maintaining weight. But as the disease progresses, incorporating pain management tools such as NSAIDs, cortisone, and even therapy such as hydrotherapy will become part of the treatment plan. More severe cases may require surgery, if feasible. Prognosis For Older German Shepherds With Hip Dysplasia Like Elbow dysplasia, if diagnosed early, the outcome for our dogs with hip dysplasia certainly looks more optimistic. But unfortunately, the prognosis for hip dysplasia in older German Shepherds comes down to maintaining the disease. The signs of canine hip dysplasia can be evident in older German Shepherds. Here are some tools we use to help our older German Shepherd residents with hip dysplasia: Keep them at an ideal weight Short walks, if possible.

Welcome to the Michigan state page on TrustedPuppies. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Michigan is renowned for its stunning lakeshores, vibrant cities, and variety of dog-friendly activities. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional German Shepherd breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the ideal companion for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable Michigan breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our MI breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Discover the dynamic dog-friendly scene in Michigan, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the West Michigan Harvest Cluster Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of German Shepherd canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. Michigan claims the 7th position in U. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable German Shepherd breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Michigan. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your German Shepherd puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect German Shepherd puppy on TrustedPuppies. Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training. Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan has adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan offers both puppy and adult dog group classes. Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter. Empowering Owners We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times. Personalized We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis. Environment Specific We train wherever issues tend to arise i. Supportive We support owners in the off-hours when training is "not in session". Involved We work with all members of the household. Satisfaction Ratings Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental and physical stimulation they need. Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. All Sizes. All Ages. The Dog Training Elite Difference Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out. The Dog Training Elite of Northern Michigan training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Find a German Shepherd trainer near you today!

Bringing about a litter of English bulldogs requires artificial insemination of the female. While her gestation period is the same as other canines -- approximately two months -- the birth process is not. You must schedule a cesarean section with your vet. The bulldog puppy's large huge head makes it almost impossible to pass through the birth canal. English Bulldog Litters Bulldogs usually give birth to three or four puppies in a litter. Once you bring the bulldog and her litter home from the veterinary hospital, keep a close eye on her. She doesn't have much in the way of mothering instincts. It's not unusual for mother bulldogs to accidentally squish or smother their offspring. For safety's sake, it's a good idea to keep the litter in a separate, warmed box and only put them in with the mother for nursing. You must ensure that the mother dog licks the puppies to stimulate bowel and urinary functions. If she doesn't, you must gently rub the puppies after each meal so they will defecate and urinate. At three weeks, you can introduce the puppies to solid food. Because of their short noses, puppies might have difficulty chewing food. Ask your vet about special foods designed for bulldog puppies, aiding their ability to eat. In addition to reporting for a major newspaper chain, she has been published in "Horse News," "Suburban Classic," "Hoof Beats," "Equine Journal" and other publications. How Long are French Bulldogs Pregnant? Under normal circumstances, a female French bulldog matures at five months of age. In six months, the heat cycle begins. The female dog is ready for mating, and conception can occur during what is also known as the oestrus cycle. But you will rarely find French Bulldogs mating naturally. Their anatomy makes it unlikely that a male will successfully mount the female. So how long are Frenchies pregnant? After fertilization, the gestation period for this breed of dogs takes about 63 days. Conception mostly happens when the female dog is in heat, which is when she is sexually receptive. There are at least five Frenchie pregnancy signs you should be looking out for when assessing if your Frenchie is getting ready to pop out some French bulldog babies! A visit to the vet is imperative. Enlarge Nipples Some of the physical signs of a pregnant Frenchie include enlarged nipples and increased sensitivity in the abdomen. If you think your dog might be pregnant, you should consult with your vet. The discharge usually happens in the second or third week. A Big Appetite Another tell-tale sign of a pregnant dog is a significant change in appetite. A pregnant Frenchie will eat double or triple the amount of food she usually does, ensuring that her body has enough energy to maintain itself and carry the puppies to full term. Vomiting or Morning Sickness Like humans, French bulldogs get morning sickness when pregnant! Three weeks after conception, she will start to throw up or be nauseous. That usually only lasts for a few days. When breeding a dog, monitoring the progress after insemination is vital. Close monitoring is especially critical during the pregnancy and ensures proper mother care during this delicate time. Ultrasound The vet uses a machine that detects heartbeats, which informs the number of pups the mother is likely to have. Relaxin is the hormone that helps relax and enlarge the cervix during pregnancy. X-Ray Scan X-rays, specifically abdominal x-rays, can be used to help vets determine whether a dog is pregnant or not. The radiography approach is considered the best way to determine if a dog is pregnant as it will provide a simple and accurate result even down to the number of pups your pet is carrying. These days are the 28th and 30th. If your dog is pregnant, you will feel enlarged uterine horns and a fetal heartbeat. Did she turn out pregnant? Welcome aboard! When talking of the French bulldog gestation period , we have to note that a few extra weeks of preparation and commitment can make the difference between a healthy and happy mother and a sickly and uncomfortable dog. The vet will tell you what to do for her and how to take care of her. In the 1st trimester, we are still in the early stages of development. The Frenchie is not eating much because her body is changing. She is not losing weight, though. Best Prenatal Supplement Oxy Mate by Revival Animal Health provides your pup with iron, folic acid, zinc, and other micronutrients that are essential for your dog's health and the development of strong healthy newborns. You can give the Frenchie folic acid supplements to help her body grow the baby. I gave my Frenchie lots of calcium and magnesium, and phosphorus supplements. Give her small, frequent meals instead of large ones to avoid adding to her discomfort. Take her on regular walks. It will help exercise her body, but they should not strain her. She needs all the energy and strength here to carry her puppies to full term. When you find out your dog is pregnant, you will want to know how long it will be until your dog has her puppies. It is essential to know because you will want to be there when she has them. Typically, the due date French bulldog falls anywhere between 58 and 63 days after conception. Weeks The first trimester is weeks one, two, and three. At week one, the sperm meets the egg, forming the embryo. At week two, the embryo attaches to the uterus. I would recommend taking many French bulldog pregnancy week by week pictures from the first week. The wait is much more fun this way. The fetus takes on visual qualities for the first time during this period; facial structures become defined, and muscular movement is observed. The spinal cord is almost fully formed at this stage, a significant milestone for any pregnancy. But how long do you have to prepare? How many days are English Bulldogs pregnant for and when can you expect the puppies to arrive? How long is an English Bulldog pregnant for? English Bulldogs are pregnant for 63 days or 9 weeks on average, although this may vary by a few days depending on several factors. A veterinarian will be able to run tests to more accurately determine how far along the pregnancy is and when a dog will give birth. How many days are English Bulldogs pregnant for? Across all breeds, dogs have a pregnancy gestation period of around 2 months around 63 days , and this is the same for English Bulldogs; with the length of the pregnancy measured from when the fertilized egg embeds itself into the lining of the uterine horn. But what are the different stages of the pregnancy, what are the symptoms and how do you properly care for a pregnant bulldog before, during and after labour? English Bulldogs will be pregnant for around 63 days on average, just like any other dog breed. English Bulldog pregnancy stages Dogs have three trimesters, all of which will last around 3 weeks. Once the eggs have been fertilized over the period of a week after breeding has occurred, between the 2ndand 3rd week they will embed themselves into the wall of the uterus. This is when the first signs of an English Bulldog pregnancy can start to occur, with your dog becoming more affectionate or irritable. Implantation and the early development of the embryo begins at around week 3, with their mood changes becoming more pronounced, as well as changes in appetite and development of breast tissue. Their heartbeat will begin to be heard after the first month of the pregnancy. The foetuses will begin to actually look like English Bulldog puppies at around week 5, with their legs and toes developing. They will begin to develop their pigmentation and eyelids on week 6. The puppies will reach their birth-size at around week 7, when they will be physically feelable inside the abdomen of your dog. This is a sign that the pregnancy is coming to an end, and that you will need to start preparing to welcome the litter. Handy Hint: If you are planning on breeding your Bully you will need to know about the English Bulldog heat cycle. Read that guide to see how to prepare for it, how long it takes, and what signs you need to look out for. Week 8 will see your dog preparing for the birth, showing nesting behaviour and with the puppies moving around within the uterus as they prepare to leave. At week 9 the puppies will be ready to be born and labour will begin. Keep checking their temperature with a rectal thermometer. Be with your dog to help with the birth, which can take between 3 and 12 hours for the full litter, helping to clean the puppies and unite them with their mother. However, most English Bulldogs will deliver via c-section. It is very dangerous for them to have a natural birth. If you would rather have them birthed in a more professional setting, ask your vet about what veterinary hospitals could assist in the labour. I do recommend c-section. This is how most English Bulldogs give birth. How many puppies do English bulldogs have? While an average dog litter is around five to six puppies, this can vary depending on the breed of dog. English Bulldogs typically have a litter of around three to four puppies, with your vet being able to identify the amount as they begin to more noticeably develop, with X-rays taking place at around the eighth week. You can read more about the English Bulldog litter size in this guide. You will often be able to tell once the labor has finished, with the mother becoming more relaxed and is no longer straining. However, if you believe there are still puppies inside her, if she does not give birth to another within the next four hours, call your vet for assistance. Once the birth has occurred, take the puppies and put them in a warmed box, only putting them on their mother for nursing. Make sure the dog can see the puppies but keeping them separated is safe because English Bulldogs are often not instinctive mothers at first, with it being very common for them to sit on and squish their puppies. How can you tell if an English bulldog is pregnant? All that being said, how do you tell whether or not your English Bulldog is pregnant? If you specifically want your dog to have puppies, or if it is more unexpected, there are several signs and symptoms to watch out for as early as the first and second week of the pregnancy. English Bulldog pregnancy signs Change in mood: While this differs depending on the dog, your dog will often have a change in moods; either becoming more affectionate or more irritable. Some dogs seek company and extra attention, while others isolate themselves and do not want any attention, even if they are a normally friendly dog. Appetite change: The appetite of a pregnant dog can change and fluctuate depending the how far along the pregnancy is; having a decreased appetite early on but needing more food later on in the pregnancy. This can vary from dog to dog and is caused by their rapidly changing hormones. Vomiting: Along with a decreased appetite, some dogs experience nausea and vomiting. However, this usually only occurs around week 3 of the pregnancy and will not stick around for long. Sometimes though, the throwing up could mean something altogether different. Lack of activity: Your dog may become less interested in physical activities and play, which usually occurs around week two. Over time, your dog will most likely become used to their condition and become more willing to interact and play. The nipples themselves may also change colour, becoming redder than their normal pinkish gray thanks to the increased blood flow. Can an English bulldog give birth naturally? Because of their history of breeding, certain Bulldogs struggle to give birth naturally, with French Bulldogs often needing caesarean sections because of their narrow hips. This is because the birth canal of the dog is often not big enough to properly, safely allow the puppies to pass through and can prove fatal for both the puppies and the mother. However, some English Bulldogs can give birth naturally, although repeated litters by breeders are usually done through C-sections as a safety precaution. I f you are concerned about whether or not your dog will need to have a C-section once labor commences, speak to your vet who will be able to recommend whether an unassisted birth or a medical procedure is needed for your particular dog. If your dog is currently in the middle of labor and you are worried they are struggling, please phone your vet immediately for medical aid. This is often shown through restlessness, making and remaking their bed and losing their appetite. Once labor properly begins, your dog will begin to start to pant, as well as begin to pace and move around. Keep an eye on her and regularly check her temperature with a rectal thermometer. If you are going to the vet for delivery, this is when you should set off. How to deliver English bulldog puppies naturally Once your dog has begun her labor, she may become increasingly agitated and digging her bed, as well as vomiting. This is when you need to be by your dog, monitoring her progress. Labor can last between 4 and 24 hours. If you are noticing her is straining too much or passing greenish discharge, call your vet immediately. Once puppies start coming out, they will be covered in fluid which the dog will break and lick the puppy to stimulate them to start moving. However, if your dog is exhausted, they may not have the energy, meaning you will have to do this for them, using a hand towel to break the sack and wipe their nose. In emergencies, you may need to perform CPR see how or rescue breaths. If there is no heartbeat, place the puppy on a solid surface, wrap your hand just below their front legs and press your thumb down on the front of their chest several times in a row. Also, call your vet for help as they will be able to provide you with instructions on performing CPR as well as helping with other areas of the labor. However, this is the most important symptom in a labor as it indicates that your dog will begin to give birth within the next 12 to 24 hours. Once this has happened, you need to start preparing for imminent birth, preparing a whelping box and taking your dog to the vet if you are having an assisted birth at the animal hospital. Conclusion If you are a new breeder or suspect that your dog has become expectedly or unexpectedly pregnant, then that is great news! You might also like…. Pin9 11 Shares French bulldogs have been selectively bred by humans to the point where they are in the majority of cases no longer able to breed naturally. Getting a French bulldog pregnant will mostly happen via artificial insemination. Once successful, how long will they be pregnant for? French bulldogs are like any other dog breed when it comes to gestation length. You can expect a Frenchie pregnancy to last between 58 and 68 days, with the average pregnancy length typically being 63 days from conception to birth. French Bulldog Pregnancy Calendar: In addition to this advice, below you can see an easy to reference French Bulldog pregnancy calendar I have put together for reference purposes. French Bulldog pregnancy calendar Week 1 days 0 to 7 The Frenchie female has been fertilized successfully, and you should continue on with her usual exercise and food, with no changes to activity or diet. Your Frenchie might experience some form of morning sickness, and you might see a small pink discharge coming out. Week 2 days 7 to 14 This is the time during the French Bulldog pregnancy calendar when the cells will start to grow, and the embryos move into the uterus area. Week 3 days 14 to 21 The small Frenchie puppy foetuses are now starting to develop properly, being extremely small at around 1 cm in length. Just like in weeks 1 and 2 of the pregnancy calendar, there is still no need to make any changes to her diet and exercise. However, you should keep an eye on her, as some dogs will want to eat more. This is one of the most important weeks in the French Bulldog pregnancy calendar and is the point of highest risk to the developing puppies. Be careful with her, and start to limit any over-exertion and rough activity. The foetuses are now starting to resemble a dog, with spinal and facial areas growing, but the puppy foetus is still only 1. Your female Frenchie may start to get swollen nipples and a clear discharge from her vagina. Again, this is perfectly normal and nothing to panic about. Your vet will need to advise on whether or not you need to change her diet, or supplement her food with any more nutritional additions. Week 5 days 28 to 35 At this point, the foetuses are more robust with feet, claws, and whiskers starting to appear. This is also the point whereby the sex of the puppy will develop, with genital areas developing. Vets can perform a scan during this period so you can find out how many puppies you can expect in the litter. Week 6 days 35 to 42 You will now definitely notice a difference in your female in terms of how large and pregnant she looks. Her nipples will also become darker, and there will also be color changes to the growing puppies too as they start to develop their unique markings. The mother will demand more food, so keep feeding her as much as she has the appetite to take. You will also be supplementing her own food with puppy food too and can also consider supplements into the diet. Week 6 in the calendar is also a good time to prepare her area for giving birth. She will want to start the nesting process so find somewhere quiet and secure that she can feel relaxed in. The puppies are now almost completely formed into their adorable French Bulldog shape. From a dietary perspective you can now stop the puppy food ratio and get the mother back onto her regular diet… but with more volume. By doing so you can let the mother store valuable calcium deposits in her system. The calcium will help the puppies develop further and stronger. Just let her be relaxed and avoid any form of over activity as this could lead to her body trying to deliver the litter early. You will see the mother start to nest properly now, and you might even be lucky enough to see some movement in her belly as the puppies move around. Week 9 days 57 to 65 The Frenchie puppies are coming! The mother will be very quiet and could even start eating less as she prepares herself for the birth this week. Handy Hint: If your Frenchie is pregnant and you want to estimate when the puppies will be due, use this pregnancy calculator. I am not a breeder, I am simply a lover of Frenchies, and own one — his name is Claude and you will see photos and videos of him elsewhere on the website. Breeders will artificially inseminate the female dam , even if the male is in the same room. In the future I will look to interview a breeder so I can publish more expert insight. How many months is the pregnancy of a dog on average? The gestation and pregnancy time period for almost any breed of dog is between 58 and 58 days, meaning 63 days is the average. How many puppies do French bulldogs usually have? Frenchies are a brachycephalic short skull breed of dog. These breeds rarely give birth to large litters, and Frenchies are just the same. French bulldogs tend to have on average around 3 puppies with each litter. Typically, the litter sizes will range between 2 and 4 puppies, with litters over 5 puppies being unusual. Occasionally you might hear of 7 or more puppies being born, but this is very, very rare. Compare that to other dog breeds such as a Golden Retriever, whose average litter size of puppies is 8, or Beagles who average 6 puppies, you can see why Frenchies are so expensive. Four Frenchie puppies in a row — not an unusual litter size in this breed. You can see some research I put together below on the most popular worldwide dog breeds and how many puppies they have on average. Dog breed type. Dog Pregnancy Symptoms and Concerns From Days Factors Affecting the Length of a Dog's Pregnancy There are several reasons why a dog's pregnancy can be more or less than the average gestation length of 63 days. Litter Size On average, a dog that is having a small litter has the potential to remain pregnant a little longer since fewer puppies ultimately means more room in the uterus. On the other hand, a dog that is having a large litter is likely to deliver a little earlier since the pups run out of room quicker and trigger labor sooner. The average litter size will depend on breed but for a general idea, Yorkshire Terriers and Chihuahuas tend to have between two and five puppies while Labrador Retrievers have around seven puppies. X-ray showing puppies in utero Breed Size The size of the pregnant dog can also be a factor. Small breed females, such as Chihuahuas, usually carry their pups slightly longer than larger breed dogs like German Shepherds , although there are always exceptions to this general rule of thumb. Both the size of the mother and the number of pups in the litter play a pivotal role in how long the pregnancy lasts. Family Line Average The length of a dog's pregnancy often runs true within family lines. If you wonder how long your own female's pregnancy might last, try to find out how long her mother and grandmother's pregnancies lasted. While this isn't always possible to track down, some professional breeders keep meticulous birth records for each litter they produce. When Puppies Are Considered Premature Most veterinarians agree that day 58 is the earliest date that puppies can safely be born because their lungs are just mature enough by that time for the puppies to have a chance at survival. Even so, the pups may still be slightly premature. You can usually spot the preemies because their paws are bright pink with very little fur on them. Puppies delivered before day 58 are typically stillborn or die within a day or two of birth. Are you InTheKnow? Sign up for our newsletter featuring all the latest stories and products we love. Invalid email I agree to receive email communications from LoveToKnow. If you know about the stages of a dog's pregnancy, you can tell where your dog is in the cycle by recognizing the signs and symptoms. Initial Signs of Pregnancy It's not always easy to tell if a dog is pregnant during the first few weeks of gestation but if you notice these signs , you should get your dog to the veterinarian for a checkup right away: Lack of appetite that may be accompanied by vomiting is normal in the first few weeks. A decrease in activity which usually occurs during the initial two weeks. The dog's breasts will start to become bigger around two weeks in to the pregnancy and will continue to get swell. Her nipples will also get darker and rosier because of increased blood flow at about the same time. Your dog may start acting strange a few days after conception and this can include either an increase in clinginess and affection or grumpy, hiding behavior. Around week six, you will notice an increase in nesting behavior which will lead to more irritable behavior as labor gets closer. A Week-by-Week Pregnancy Timeline If you want to be truly organized and track your dog's progress so you can provide her with the best care, you can make a simple chart with a list of what happens during your dog's pregnancy week-by-week. Doing helps you make sure your home is set up for all requirements for the dog pregnancy stages. It's also useful for tracking the intensity and duration of symptoms to make sure the pregnancy is going well and your dog doesn't need further veterinary care. An English Bulldog is pregnant for about 2 months or 63 days. English bulldogs, like all dog breeds, have three trimesters of pregnancy, with each one lasting approximately 21 days. Once you have your bulldog puppy home, you may begin to wonder, how long do bulldogs stay puppies. About 12 — 15 months, so enjoy that cute ball of energy while you can! If anything, you might see the bulldog putting on a few pounds. But other than that, everything else will appear normal. By week four, a bulldog might start experiencing morning sickness due to hormonal changes. This will help with nausea and reduce any vomiting. Also around week four, the puppies inside the pregnant bulldog have detectable heartbeats. The bulldog puppies can be detected through an ultrasound or careful touching of the belly. You might begin to see the little puppies moving around inside her belly. Veterinarian appointments during this time are very import as bulldogs almost never can perform natural births. The vet will determine the best birthing process which will most likely be a C-section around day .Increased affectionate behavior towards others More pronounced or enlarged nipples Vaginal discharge around the fourth week of pregnancy. Fluids should be clear A slowdown in physical activity Morning sickness, including nausea and vomiting Month 2 — During this period, the bulldog fetal development quickens. Between days 32 and 45 eyelids, toes, claws, coat, and skeleton develop. See the video below from Red White and Bulldogs , highlighting the last day of pregnancy for one of their bulldogs. C-sections will be scheduled in advance by the bulldog breeder. Conclusion So if you get the call from your bulldog breeder that the mother of your bulldog is pregnant, be prepared to wait around 63 days before your new puppy is born. This will give you enough time to prepare and get your home ready to welcome a new member of the family!

They are located in the St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay and St. Pete Beach areas of Florida. To learn more you can visit their website here or send them an email at tbalusa gmail. They have been in business since .They breed allergy and asthma friendly mini, medium and standard size Australian Labradoodle puppies. All of their breeding dogs are health tested according to the standard of the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association. The kennel was founded by Peggy, who opened her business because of her love for dogs and desire for safer breeding practices. They socialize and teach. And, they provide a lot of interaction between their puppies. Individualized attention to their litters. They start training early and send them home vaccinated. They are located in Tampa Bay and Central Florida. To learn more about Seaspray and their upcoming litters, visit their website here. Lakewood Labradoodles Lakewood is a breeder of allergy friendly australian labradoodles. Located in Winter Haven, they raise their puppies inside their home as members of their family. Before you can take them home, Lakewood helps to begin the training process by laying a foundation for a well trained pet. For more information on their upcoming litters, visit their website here. They specialized in miniature to medium sized Australian Labradoodle puppies. I do not work outside of the home and I am fully involved in their upbringing, early development and training. They test for genetic diseases such as hip dysplasia, PRA and have eye exams annually. Before you bring your puppy home, they will be vaccinated, given a microchip, dewormed and given a well-puppy exam at 8 weeks. Plus, their litters are evaluated by a behaviorist to ensure good behavior before you bring your new dog home. To learn more about their upcoming litters and to view their dogs, visit their website here. They genetically and radio graphically test all their dogs for genetic disease and any health issues. Their puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee. The communication you provided during the process was spot on. With an excited family, it was great seeing the updates on the puppy and the pictures. Beau is beautiful and loved. He has a personality all his own, different than the Labs we owned. My wife Kelly got diagnosed with breast cancer not long after we got Beau and he has been a great pal for her. He loves her and she loves him. They breed their dogs to the highest of standards and each dog is registered and health tested to the regulations of the ALCA. Additionally, they have all of their breeding dogs DNA profiles so you know that you are getting an Authentic Multigenerational Australian Labradoodle. Before you bring your puppy home, they use neurological stimulation and activities to promote well behaved and confident pets. We want to raise our Australian Labradoodle puppies to have the best chance to grow into confident, stable and able to handle the stresses and challenges of a modern lifestyle. Fursure Helps Pet Parents Find The Best Pet Insurance Policy With the cost of veterinary bills rising each year, you could easily find yourself paying thousands out of pocket if an accident or illness were to occur. Let our team at Fursure help you get started on finding the best pet insurance policy for your furry friend. You pet will thank you! To get your pet protected and covered in just a few minutes , buy a pet insurance policy today! Join the Pack No spam. Just the very best in show products, expert pet parenting advice, and more.Read about our privacy policy. Thank you! Your submission has been received! Something went wrong while submitting the form. Introducing pet insurance that pays your vet directly. We let you keep your cash on hand, so you can focus on giving your pet the best care possible. We are starting our waitlist now as these puppies are very popular. They are the smallest we breed at 20 to 35 lbs. Temperaments are great! Stud to be determined. He adapted very quickly and never really fussed being in the crate. He is very intelligent and easy to train. We are very very happy that we found him as he is quite the companion and a very easy dog. My grandson and he get along very very well and he is very gentle with him although I can see there being competition for toys going forward. He does love his bath-Scott is very good at giving him one. He is quite the hippie dog! The communication you provided during the process was spot on. With an excited family, it was great seeing the updates on the puppy and the pictures. Beau is beautiful and loved. He has a personality all his own, different than the Labs we owned. My wife Kelly got diagnosed with breast cancer not long after we got Beau and he has been a great pal for her. He loves her and she loves him. Flordia Kahlo is amazing! She's so gorgeous!! Coat like her dad I think- never had a single tangle! Sheis so so sweet, not hyper, playful and loves to give hugs.Thank you so much for blessing us with our beautiful Kahlo! We are proud to be a member and abide by the ethics of this organization. These certifications help ensure that your new Australian Labradoodle puppy is the real deal. Our dogs are carefully selected so their puppies will have wonderful dispositions, amazing conformation, and hypoallergenic coats for which the breed was developed and is sought after. Our goal is to provide allergy friendly Australian Labradoodle puppies that are healthy, smart, and people oriented as family pets as well as therapy and service dogs. Our foundation dogs were chosen specifically because they were the best examples of the breed standards set forth by WALA. With each and every litter we produce we are striving to produce a better puppy that lives a full and happy healthy life. This ensures that our dogs are as healthy as possible before breeding. We use temperament testing and conformation evaluation to help us breed for for calm, confident, and people focused puppies with correct structure. We also use the temperament test results to help place puppies in the right homes. These breeding practices help ensure that you get the best possible Australian Labradoodle puppy available for your family or service dog. We feel that every family should own one of these wonderful Australian Labradoodle puppies for a joyful addition to your family. See why we belong to WALA in this video below.Sunrise Australian Labradoodles. He had received a request from a blind woman in Hawaii whose husband was allergic to longhaired dogs. This breed has since gained worldwide popularity and remains a very sought-after breed today. This breed is the perfect mix between a Poodle and Labrador Retriever. This Labradoodle is known for having a very loving, caring, and pleasant personality. They are very smart dogs and eager to be a part of your family. They also tend to be very social and interact well children and other pets in the home. They are not aggressive dogs and have very warm and approachable demeanors. They make marvelous family pets and are known to quickly bond. Labradoodles do not shed heavy and do not require excessive brushing. Most do well with standard grooming every six to eight weeks. Making sure your Labradoodle is properly groomed will allow him to look and feel his best. Labradoodles do best with a balance of meat-based protein and micronutrients, as well as healthy carbs and fats. This breed also tends to do well being fed twice a day with meals spaced apart every twelve hours. This will help to ensure the dog is provided with the proper nutrients he needs. It is also important that his teeth get cleaned a minimum of three times a week. Failing to keep his teeth clean can contribute to health issues. Although properly cleaning his teeth will take some practice to get good at, in time, this will become easier for you and your pup. The Standard Labradoodle stands between twenty-two and twenty-four inches tall. At maturity this breed weighs between fifty and sixty-five pounds. They have an average life expectancy of twelve to fifteen years. Fact: Labradoodles are a mix between a Poodle and Labrador Retriever. Fact: This breed is considered a very smart dog who trains with ease. Fact: Labradoodles have different coat types and are not known for heavy shedding. What are the diseases that Labradoodles are prone to? Labradoodles are prone to health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, diabetes mellitus, ear infections, and hypothyroidism. Do Labradoodles shed at all? Although Labradoodles are known as non-shedders, there are some of them who still undergo shedding, most especially the Labradors with hair coats. How should you feed your Labradoodles? But, bear in mind that however you feed your Lab, be careful not to get your Lab bloated or underfed. A Labradoodle has an average lifespan of years. Can Labs go for hunting? How big do Labs grow? The average male Lab can grow up to 22 to 24 inches while the female one can grow up to 21 to 23 inches, and both can weigh as much as 50 to 70 pounds. Is it safe to leave my Lab all alone when we are out? Labs are social dogs and they need to be around people or other dogs most of the time, hence it might not be safe to be away from your Lab for too long, to avoid behavioral problems such as depression, frustration, and unhappiness. Does gender matter when getting a Labradoodle? Not at all. Both genders of Labs make awesome family pets. You can decide to either adopt or buy any gender of your choice 9. How much do Labs puppies cost? The cost of buying Labradoodle puppies varies, depending on where you are buying from. Contact us today to learn more about the cost and availability of our Labs .When can I start training my Lab? Are you interested in purchasing a Labradoodle? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Pensacola Florida and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Our adorable Sticks has now been in his Amazing Foster home for over a year! He has literally never had an accident in the house. He loves to sleep in bed with you and will burrow under the covers and sleep the whole night there. He has done great around dogs of all sizes and genders. He walks well on a leash. He will definitely let you know if anyone is around your house. Sticks does great on a routine! He will throw a toy up in the air over and over and over. He loves the male foster in the home, but it took a while for him to be truly comfortable. He has never bitten a child or anything like that but due to the barking and growling, better safe than sorry. I got him DNA tested and his breed make-up is largely dogs on restricted lists. In an imaginary world where I could pick a perfect home for him, it would be an older, single lady, with another dog, a fenced in yard, who likes to hang out at home with her dog! But this is the real world and I know homes like that are few and far-between. If you or someone you know is looking for a dog like Sticks, and fits the above, please let me know! If you have made it this far, please share this post so we can get Sticky to his people!!!! If you would like to meet any of our pups, the first step is to fill out our online application so we can contact you. Sticks is neutered, current on shots, rabies vaccine, and a registered microchip. Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. September 12, , pm.

They are AKC registered, male and female puppies ready now for sale. Cary Cheap Pugs For Sale. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Find your puppy for sale in Raleigh, NC. We do not give or sell breeding rights to anyone who purchases a Carolina Pug. Pugs for adoption in the Raleigh, North Carolina area come with a year health guarantee. Well socialized potty trained puppies available. This money is to hold your new Carolina Pug puppy until 8 - 10 weeks of age. Pug puppies for sale, Pug puppies. Our focus is improving the overall quality of our Pugs. Find your Pug puppy for sale in Raleigh, NC. You can list down the address and the. For more information or to schedule an appointment to see the current puppies available, give us a call today at. Pekingeses for Sale in Raleigh. Garner Free Pug Puppies. Find your puppy for sale in Raleigh, NC Puppies. Pug puppies for sale Find Pug breeders with puppies for sale near Raleigh Pug breeders directory Enter your 5-digit U. Pug For Sale in North Carolina .Raleigh, NC. Pug puppies for sale in Raleigh, NC from trusted breeders. Dog Group: Toy. Shots and worming up to date delivery possible with delivery fee. We are trying to find the perfect home for him and are excited for anyone who… View Details. Pug Puppies available occasionally. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find dogs for sale outside that price range. Size: inches tall, lbs. Pugs for Sale in North Carolina. Pugs near by Raleigh. North Carolina Pug Rescue. It has some of the most reputed pug breeders and organizations that promote the. Pawsitively Pugs Rescue is dedicated to the rescue, care, and placement of unwanted, abandoned, neglected and abused pugs, giving each a second chance at a loving and caring forever home. Once the companions of Chinese royalty, their distinct faces are complemented by sweet demeanors. Transportation to Raleigh, NC available. Find Pug breeders with puppies for sale near Raleigh. Vistors are allowed at 6 weeks after first parvo shot. Before owning one of our quality pups, They are raised in our home with our kids. North Carolina Pug Classifieds Hoobly. ZIP or Canadian postal code in the box below and then. Dogs in Raleigh North Carolina. Each puppy will come with all shots and vaccines upto date, AKC papers and 1 year free health guarantee. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. PPR accepts pugs regardless of their age, temperament or medical condition. Pug For Sale in Raleigh .There are many ways and avenues you can get pug puppies for sale in North Carolina. For out-of-state customers, we have nationwide delivery options tailored to every need. We strive to produce very adorable pups that will. All Dogs near Raleigh, North Carolina. History: The Pug is one of the oldest breeds of dogs that is still around today. Should be about lbs when full-grown. You can begin your search here with Local Puppy Breeders, Breeder. PuppySpot has Pug breeders across the United States with puppies ready to ship to you. For out-of-state customers, we have nationwide delivery options tailored to. Pugs are true joy bringers from the moment they are born. Puppies for Sale. Pug Puppies in Pennsylvania. All puppies found here are from AKC-Registered parents. They are raised in our home with. The puppies range in price from to .Pug Puppies For Sale. Beautiful, healthy Puppies for Sale. Pug Rescue of North Carolina Inc. We now have designer hybrid puppies available including PomaPoos and Shih Poos! If you can provide a loving home and a good environment for one of our special pups, and you know the commitment and responsibility required to own a pet, please contact us. Find Pug Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful Pug information. Our goal is to produce healthy Pug puppies for sale with well rounded out going personalities. Raleigh, NC change. The state of North Carolina is well represented in the world of pug puppies and the pug owners. Find Pug puppies for sale Near Raleigh, NC Smart and playful with a short muzzle and expressive eyes, the Pug's low-key lifestyle makes them perfect city dogs. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Find Pug dogs and puppies from North Carolina breeders. Small hobby breeder with over 37 years breeding experience. Teacup Puppies for Sale in North Carolina. Breed Frenchie Pug. Find a Pug puppy from reputable breeders near you in Raleigh, NC. Pug puppy for sale in Raleigh, NC. Puppies and Parents Welcome to visit anytme. Pug puppies for sale Select a Breed. We invest a great amount of time and research into developing a healthy and stable companion for your whole. Showing 1 - 19 of 24, results. Healthy Pug Puppies. Summerfield, NC view our pets cathleen pugrescuenc. Morrisville Pug Puppies For Sale. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Search Location: Raleigh, NC change. Pug puppies for sale in North Carolina from trusted breeders. Learn more puppies available certified breeders Transportation Location Color. Pug, North Carolina » Raleigh. Find a Pug for adoption at dog rescues or shelters near Raleigh. Discreet Pug Puppies for sale. Despite their tiny size, they have the biggest hearts. Until Every Pug Has a Home. We are a new, small breeder in beautiful Greenville, South Carolina specialized in the Pug breed. How much do Pug puppies cost in Raleigh, NC? Prices for Pug puppies for sale in Raleigh, NC vary by breeder and individual puppy. They will have all shots, vet examination. My Favorites Puppies for Sale Find the perfect puppy for you and your family. Find Pug puppies for sale Near North Carolina Smart and playful with a short muzzle and expressive eyes, the Pug's low-key lifestyle makes them perfect city dogs. Save this search and we'll notify you when they are. We want to breed the best Pugs in the world, and most important, want to make sure our dogs go to great homes with loving families. We strive to produce very adorable pups that will bring many years of joy and happiness to your family. Find the perfect puppy for you and your family. Beaufort County Animal Control offers pet adoptions. Pets can help improve your health- not to mention giving a great home to a pet in need. Are you ready to.Ready to go with her first set of shots and dewormed,small bag of her food she is eating and signed health contract. Adopt a Pet can help you find a new best friend near you. A pair of dogs. No Shed. Instead of searching the newspaper or a disorganized classifieds site, you will find all the North Carolina classifieds with pictures and detailed descriptions in neat categories. Oodle - Pets. Entire Country. Adopt Nike a Labrador Retriever. Find your perfect puppy at Petland Raleigh. Our dogs are up to date on all vaccines and preventatives. All health and breeder records are included. HSC believes that by working to improve animal welfare, we're not only saving the lives of animals but are also building a better community. Hoobly Pets Nc. It's also free to list your.The mission of New Hanover County Sheriff's Office Animal Services Unit is to protect the public from the threat of rabies virus exposure and to ensure.Chihuahua puppies PetClassifieds. Sweet, beautiful chihuahuas available now. First shots and deworming. Call or text Located in Lenoir, NC. Pets - Classifieds. Welcome to Cleveland County, NC. Visit our Petango page to see our available pets. Please visit within shelter hours to meet a pet. Call, e-mail or drop-in to begin the adoption process. Cumulative List of Organizations Described in Section .Petroleum Marketers Education Foundation Inc. Friends , Hesperia.Pet Therapy Inc. Walk-ins for dog adoptions are accommodated as available during open.Petsloo Local Pet Classifieds website has the best features for both people looking to buy and people looking to sell. Find buyers in your area for your pets. Whether you have one pet to sell or are a professional breeder, … Maltese Rescue Raleigh Nc. Dogs and Puppies Classifieds Hoobly. Toggle Navigation Hoobly Classifieds. Pets and Animals » Dogs and Puppies. North Carolina. Dogs and Puppies, Poodle. We have Moyen Medium Poodles. Mother is the.AmericanListed features safe and local classifieds for everything you need! 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Be sure to view the list of cats and kittens at our shelter to see which ones have a reduced or waived fee! Each cat and kitten adoption includes the following:. He has sired one litter. Pets For Adoption. Adoption Fees.GovDeals - County surplus for sale. Animal Control - Matthews NC. Pet Adoptions. Adoptable Pets: Before buying a new pet, please check out those who are.Pets in North Carolina. Free classified ads for Pets and everything else in North Carolina. Find what you are looking for or create your own ad for free! Pet Classifieds brings the best features to buyers and sellers in one site. If you are like many people, you often wish your dog came perfectly trained without you having to do any work. Friendly Pets at Friendly Center is a local, family-owned pet shop that has puppies, kittens, fish, small animals, birds, reptiles and exotics, pet foods, Adopt Guilford County, NC. Adopt a New Family Member! Animal Control Services. Animal Control staff: Respond to reports of potentially rabid animals, dangerous dogs, loose dogs and cats, and animal cruelty. North Carolina Pets Classifieds. Buy, sell and trade pets in North Carolina Users can place their pets classifieds ads related to Buy and Sell dogs, cats, Speeddogs Nc - Einfach weiterlaufen -. We are an open admission animal shelter for the counties of Pasquotank and Camden. We house dogs, cats and small animals. Find a dog to adopt near Raleigh, NC. Search thousands of available pets from shelters and rescues in Chewy's network. Healthy Top Quality Bull Terrier puppies that emulate the breed standards. Maltese Rescue Raleigh Nc. Through the Petco Foundation, we have helped over 5 million pets find new homes all across the country. Click here to see our newest litter of puppies for sale! We have a number of lovable pets waiting for adoption in Greenville. Belgian Malinois Breeders Nc. Email: info belgianmalinoisbreeder. Grace Wood Farm provides a trusted source for family raised Sheepadoodle puppies for sale in North Carolina and surrounding areas. The puppies were.Puppies and dogs in King, North Carolina. Brittany Spaniel. Puppy - Charlotte Classifieds - Claz. She is expected to be pounds and is currently UTD on all vaccinations and deworming.

Also called Barbone and Caniche, the teacup-toy Poodle is an intelligent and loyal breed. If you want a best friend who is big enough to keep up with your adventures but small enough to ride in your lap, this energetic dog may be a match for you. Affectionate, eager, and playful, they are ready and willing to do what it takes to make you happy. Their intelligence makes them relatively easy to train, and early socialization will help your pup grow to be calm and happy around pets, children, and unfamiliar people. They are a delightful all-around dog that has such strong qualities, it has been a parent breed for dozens of hybrid breeds. Their eyes are dark and brilliant and reveal their intelligence. Their nose is refined at the end of a long, narrow snout, and their teeth meet in a strong scissor bite. A miniature variation dictates that Teacup-Toy Poodles will have a squarely-built body with a deep chest and muscled shoulders. Their stance is elegant but sturdy, and their tail stands straight up. Their hair is typically dense, curly, and even wiry. Their coats come in many colors: White. Lifespan Sociability As with any purebred dog, getting your hands on a Teacup Poodle can be a long and exhausting process. But taking the time to do your research and vet your sources will ensure your new family member is happy, healthy, and responsibly bred. Teacup Poodles have very similar proportions to their larger brethren, with slightly longer legs and an up-turned tail. Because of their small size and squared-off proportions, many Teacup poodles resemble walking, barking teddy bears. This breed can technically come in any color, though most show standards dictate a solid coat. If you want to know which breeder in your area is the most reliable, one of the best resources to check out is your regional Poodle club. By reaching out to members of local breed-specific organizations, either face-to-face or through social media, you can learn a bit about their experiences with nearby Teacup Poodle breeders. Can You Adopt a Teacup Poodle? However, these chances are very slim. Oftentimes, these organizations keep tabs on local dogs in need and help connect them to compatible owners. But because the Teacup Poodle is so popular right now and because it costs so much to buy in the first place , very few dogs end up in shelters. Watch out for owners trying to resell their Teacup Poodle on social media or on local bulletin boards, as you can never know the health or history of a dog. They are prone to breaking their bones. Their tiny bodies make them susceptible to breaking bones. They are great watchdogs Despite their size, they are loyal and fiesty. They do not shed! They are loving, friendly, cuddly, sweet, and make great companions. If they develop separation anxiety, they can get into mischief. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are wonderful dogs for older families and older couples because they love to be cuddled and doted upon. Be sure you know exactly how to groom, feed , exercise, and train your new companion before adding a Teacup Poodle to your home. Teacup Poodles have very small mouths and digestive tracts, so choose a dry food with extra-small kibble pieces. Teacup Poodles also have different nutritional requirements than larger Poodles. Outside of taking your Teacup Poodle for walks, the vast majority of their exercise needs will be met indoors. Even small apartments offer plenty of space for this breed to run and play. Some Teacup Poodles even enjoy playing in shallow water. We always recommend supervising your Teacup Poodle when outside, even in fenced areas. If you own a Teacup Poodle, though, adopting this mindset will be doing your pup a major disservice. In fact, the Teacup Poodle is highly intelligent, with many breeders and owners considering them some of the most trainable dogs in existence. With that said, Teacup Poodles can be quite stubborn and resistant to household rules. As with any breed, consistent training and socialization will result in an affectionate, trusting, and overall well-rounded dog. However, their smaller size means that grooming takes far less time than with larger varieties. The Teacup Poodle requires bathing and trimming at least every two months, if not more often. Despite the need for a consistent grooming regimen, Teacup Poodles shed very little fur. Because of their overturned ears, regular ear cleaning is necessary to prevent buildup and infection. Many Teacup Poodles also require daily cleaning around the eyes to wipe away buildup and prevent staining. While some of these concerns can be managed through responsible breeding, there is always a chance with any dog that health conditions will emerge over time. For the Teacup Poodle, common health concerns include: Diabetes. These tiny little pups are loyal and loving and can fit just about anywhere! Also intelligent, the Teacup Poodle will keep you on your toes and carries many of the same characteristics as their standard sized parents. This breed is selectively bred and is a variation of the Toy Poodle. The only difference between the Toy Poodle and the Teacup Poodle is their size, so we can look to the Toy Poodle for a lot of information about the Teacup. Breed Origin The Poodle is one of the most popular dogs in the world and is in fact one of the oldest pure bred dogs. These dogs originated in Germany and were originally bred to be a working and gun dog that made the perfect hunting dog. The Poodle has a waterproof coat and great retrieving talents. Nowadays, this breed is more known as a lapdog rather than a working dog. They are bred in smaller breeds so that more people can enjoy having a Poodle as a best friend. The Teacup variation of this breed has been selectively bred from the Toy Poodle and must be under 9 inches in height and less than 6 pounds in weight to qualify as a Teacup. Teacup puppies are normally born in litters of one to two, although occasionally there can be more. They weigh around 2 pounds when born and will only grow to around 5 pounds once fully grown. They also are always under 9 inches in height. This is because of the selective breeding process and the fact that there are fewer dogs in every litter. Although there are no official breed standards, the general rule of thumb is that a Teacup Poodle is 9 inches in height and they weigh less than 6 pounds, whereas a Toy breed is less than 10 inches. Their breed is very elegant looking, no matter the size, and they always stand poised. Their eyes are also small, dark and are always alert and they have a long muzzle with floppy furry ears. Coat Their coat is curled and thick and they do not shed any fur. This means they are a hypoallergenic dog and are perfect for those with allergies. Unlike other Poodle mix dogs who may have a mixture of different fur colors, this dog only comes in solid colors. This way, you can determine whether you are being sold a purebred Poodle or not. They are extremely loving and make great companions for everyone, including individuals, families and the elderly. Because of their size, too, they fit into many different environments and will do well in apartments and in city living and also in large homes in the country or in open-spaced environments. Their exercise needs are not great, although they do get bored very easily and do not like to be left alone. If they are left alone for too long they will begin to suffer from separation anxiety and exhibit destructive behaviors. Lifespan The life expectancy of a Teacup dog is relatively long. These dogs can be expected to live anywhere between 12 to 14 years. Some of these problems are similar to the issues that may be carried by their standard sized ancestors due to their genetic similarities. These include: Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — this is an eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. Dysplasia — this is normally seen in large dogs but can affect different joints in the body. Also, because of their selective breeding and small size, they are also prone to some other health issues. You should always check with the breeder you are buying from to see whether the dogs show any signs of these problems. The three most common are hypoglycemia low blood sugar , heart defects and patella luxation. Patella luxation is a common condition in smaller dogs and is caused when the patella is not properly aligned. This can cause lameness in the leg or an abnormal gait, sort of like a skip or a hop. To ensure you identify the signs of any of these issues early, ensure you take your dog to the vet for regular checkups. Daily Life Fortunately, taking care of a Teacup Poodle in day-to-day life is not too challenging. They do not have as many needs as other sizes of the Poodle breed. Food And Diet Because they are small dogs , their food needs are not huge. Experts recommend that you feed your Teacup Poodle approximately calories per day, which is the equivalent to approximately 1 cup of high quality dry kibble per day. You should try them on a diet that is specially formulated for toy sized breeds, so you are ensuring that they get the right nutrients. You can also reward them with treats when they exhibit good behavior, as well as fruit snacks. Exercise The Teacup Poodle does not have great exercise needs, because of their size. Despite this, they still need to be walked every day. Exercising your dog can be a great way to bond with them and increase mental stimulation, as well as allowing them to experience new sights and sounds. Experts recommend you take your Teacup Poodle for no more than a 30 minute short walk a day. It is best that you split the walk into three so they do not over exert themselves. This way you could take them in the morning, in the middle of the day and in the evening and you could vary the locations to give your dog new experiences. Your dog will also benefit from toys at home that will increase bonding time with you. Keep in mind that a Teacup Poodle has trouble keeping warm because of their small size. If you live in a colder area, your Teacup will benefit from a sweater or jacket to keep warm! Family Compatibility Poodles love humans and make great companions for everyone, including families. Because of their size, Teacup Poodles can fit into any home, whether you live in an apartment in the city of whether you live in a large house in the countryside. They love to be around you, so they are not well suited to a family that is going to be out for most of the day. That being said, they are extremely loving and a great lapdog — and small enough so you might be able to take them with you! The Teacup may feel intimidated when being held by small children and therefore get a little cranky. Fortunately, with early socialization, this can be fixed. Training Teacup Poodles are easy to train, which is another reason many people love these dogs. They are naturally intelligent which makes your life a lot easier, especially if you have never trained a dog before. Teacups want to learn and want to please and they respond well to positive reinforcement. This includes verbal praise and treats. You will also need to socialize them, especially because they are small. They need to be introduced to other people and animals from a young age so they learn how to interact. You should aim to do this twice a week. You should also clip their nails and brush their teeth. To help prevent dental decay and disease, daily brushing is the normally recommended. Teacup Poodles certainly do well in a family environment and love to be around people. They can feel intimidated when they are around small children, so it is not usually advised to house them with young children. However, this can be fixed with socialization. They can live in both small apartments or in big houses, as long as you give them enough love. How much do Teacup Poodles cost? They are expensive because they can be difficult to breed and there is normally only one or two puppies in a litter. If this is too expensive for you, you may find a Teacup Poodle at your local shelter who needs a home. Summary Teacup Poodles are an adorable, friendly and loving dog. Ensure that you give them the right amount of food, exercise them every day and play games with them and they will love you forever! Teacup Poodles love to be around people and can make the perfect family dog. They are not difficult to train and walking is minimal, so they make a great pet to everyone! What do you think — is a Teacup Poodle the right dog for you? Search Dog Breeds. About 2 to 4 puppies Grooming Poodles must be bathed regularly and clipped every six to eight weeks. Clean and check the ears frequently for wax or mites or infection and pull out hairs growing inside the ear canal. The teeth need regular scaling. Since the coat does not shed it needs to be clipped. There are several different types of Poodle clips. The most common for pet owners is an easy-care clip called a "pet clip," "puppy clip" or "lamb clip" where the coat is cut short all over the body. Popular show clips are the English saddle and the Continental clip where the rear half of the body is shaved, bracelets are left around the ankles, and pom-poms are left on the tails and hips. The AKC standard allows for a dog under a year old to be shown in a show style puppy clip which has special requirements such as a pom-pom on the end of the tail. Other clip styles are the modified continental clip, town and country clip, kennel or utility clip, summer clip, and the Miami of bikini clip. Poodles shed little to no hair and are good for allergy sufferers. Origin The Poodle has been known throughout Western Europe for at least years and is depicted in 15th century paintings and in bas-reliefs from the 1st century. France has taken a claim on the origin, but the AKC gives the honor to Germany, where they say it was used as a water retrieval dog. Other claims have been Denmark or the ancient Piedmont. What is certain is that the dog was a descendant of the now-extinct French Water Dog, the Barbet and possibly the Hungarian Water Hound. The name "Poodle" most likely came out of the German word "Pudel," which means "one who plays in water. They would leave hair on the leg joints to protect them from extreme cold and sharp reeds. The hunters in Germany and France used the Poodle as a gundog and as a retriever of waterfowl and to sniff out truffles laying underground in the woods. The French started using the breed as a circus performer because of the dog's high intelligence and trainability. The breed became very popular in France, which led to the common name "French Poodle," but the French people actually called the breed the "Caniche," meaning "duck dog. In the 18th century smaller poodles became popular with royal people. The three official sizes are the Toy, Miniature and Standard Poodle. They are considered one breed and are judged by the same written standard but with different size requirements. Some of the Poodle's talents include: retrieving, agility, watchdog, competitive obedience and performing tricks. Maxidoodle the white Teacup Poodle at 7 years old, weighing 5 pounds 2. Until he was 3, he rode around the house in the pocket of my robe, and now at age 7 and 5lbs he continues to stand on my upturned left hand with his rear in the crook of my arm. I love to kayak the many springs in Florida and Max loves paddling too, riding just behind me on a pad I affix to the top of my kayak, even accompanied me on 4 day river sandbar camping paddle. Max also loves to boss around Tout d'Suite, my 20 black cat, and eat all his cat food. I keep him groomed in the continental cut and he prances like a little prince, on or off the leash. He's very polite and doesn't beg or steal people's food. Max loves to engage me or Tout d'Suite in a lively game of chase. I love my buddy! Penny is 2 years old and weighs 5 pounds 2. She is about 8 inches tall at her shoulder. She is a very happy little dog. Penny is a very healthy girl and enjoys her trips to the vet!! Penny is so good, she always lets me trim her hair and toenails! I think she is a very lucky little dog; she gets lots of love, but also lots of exercise and mental stimulation. Penny is healthy because she is only allowed to eat her dog food , never any people food. I think this has helped to prevent her from being a picky eater, which can be a problem in small dogs!