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Dachshund Getty Images Smooth, wirehaired or longhaired, there's a type of dachshund for everybody. They even come in two different sizes: standard and miniature. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below English Setter Getty Images Called the "gentleman of the dog world," the English setter is known for both its style and its strength. Just don't describe their coats as spotted. The speckled pattern is known as "belton. Swiss farmers originally raised them as good-natured helpers, so they're super strong. The pups only develop the spots later in life though; the litters start out completely white. Labs have been the number one dog breed in America for more than 25 years in a row! An abandoned Cairn terrier named Terry went on to become one of the biggest canine movie stars in history. Caroline Picard Contributing Writer Caroline is a writer and editor with almost a decade of experience. From to , she held various editorial positions at Good Housekeeping, including as health editor, covering nutrition, fitness, wellness, and other lifestyle news. An avid traveler, she trots the globe with her husband and their twins. An empty outlined icon indicating the option to save an item Save Article Use Arrow Keys to Navigate View Gallery 40 Slides Getty Some people like to go big or go home by adopting large dog breeds , while some prefer pint-sized pups and go for a small dog breed — but if you ask us and Goldilocks, the perfect pet is right in the middle. These medium-sized dog breeds are as cuddly as their smaller counterparts and often just as playful as larger dogs, in a more manageable package. Generally, dogs in this category weigh in at about 30—70 pounds, although some can certainly grow bigger or stay smaller than that. While they may have size in common, there's lots to choose from within the category. These breeds totally vary in activity level, trainability, coat type and temperament. Looking for low-shedding dog that won't set off your allergies? Check out the standard poodle. Need a running buddy that can go and go for miles? A German Shorthaired Pointer or Dalmatian might be just your speed. Or do you need a mold-mannered soul that'll play nice with the kids? Labrador Retrievers live up to their number-one reputation as the perfect family dogs. This list includes members from almost all of the breed groups including sporting, non-sporting, working, hounds and terriers minus the tiny toy breeds. We've included some of the most popular options we see you, Golden Retrievers but also some deep cuts you may not know, like Boykin Spaniels and Pyrenean Shepherds. Before you bring home any dog, do your homework on the cost and commitments associated with owning a pet. Always adopt animals from reputable sources , like respected animal shelters or breeders. 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Similar in style to the Rabbitgoo — the Winsee is both a walking and a front range harness. The harness itself is made from a D oxford fabric with high density that prevents your Lab from easily chewing or tearing it. Collar or a Harness for a Labrador Labradors have a lot of energy and require much exercise as a result. Many Labrador owners at first default to giving their Lab a dog collar and walking them that way. After a few weeks of frustration from being dragged around on the street with constant pulling, some consider an alternative to their collars and decide on a dog harness. Pulling in Labradors is not uncommon and something seasoned Lab owners will be familiar with. For first time owners, however, it can be not only frustrating but challenging. It can not only cause discomfort for you, particularly your hands but can lead to discomfort and stress for your dog. Regardless, if your dog is a puller or not — we suggest using a collar solely for ID tags to help identify them should they get lost. Types of Lab Harnesses There are several types of harness out there, which can be a little daunting at first. Labrador Vest Harness Simple, inexpensive and used as a basic walking harness. Often made from plastic, mesh or nylon — they are designed for lightweight general wear and for dogs who are already well behaved on their leash. Back clip dog harnesses have a lead attachment point at the back. A standard leash can be clipped on for normal walking. Front clip harnesses, such as the SENSE-ation, have an attachment point solely at the front of the chest area. These are very different than your traditional harnesses in that the lead only attaches to the front — which may seem odd at first — however, they can often be recommended by trainers as an easier way to reduce pulling. Front and Back clip harnesses have points at both the top back and include a secondary attachment point at the front chest of the harness. One point attaches to the back, the other to the front. This offers increased control of your dog, similar to the reins used on a horse. A no-pull harness is made to reduce the impact of the dog pulling on their lead, as well as aid in the training of your dog. Tightening and Control Harness There are more aggressive than standard anti-pulling harnesses, and tighten when your dog starts pulling. These can be uncomfortable as they can squeeze the dogs chest as they tighten. These harness types are best reserved for experienced dog handlers and trainers. Although often associated with Military and Service dogs, they are also to be found as training harnesses, hunting harnesses or general trekking. Labrador Harness Size and Measurements Standard adult labrador sizes vary, but according to the American Kennel Club , an average male labrador height is between .This places Labs in the category of a medium-large breed, with harness sizes reflecting that. Normally this will be a large-sized harness, though it will vary depending on the manufacturer. To get an accurate measurement for your Labrador and Lab puppy, follow the steps below. Measure The Chest The most crucial part of your measurement is the chest. Take a tape measure and wrap it around the widest part of the chest. This is found a few inches behind the front legs. Add a Few Inches You should all a couple of inches to the total to allow for movement and growth. Take the tape measure and measure around the circumference of the neck. What Makes a Good Labrador Dog Harness Finding the right dog harness can take not only time and effort but patience from you, the owner. Be careful not to select a harness that is likely to fall apart, snap or break when put under strain. Check that the harness fits well and allows for movement. Summary We hope you found our article on the best harnesses for Labradors helpful in making your choice. Dog harnesses are a good alternative to walking your dog on a collar and lead. Harnesses are also great if your dog is a puller. They can also be used for training your dog to stop them from tugging on their leash when walking them. You should also find a harness that fits the size of your breed, as too loose opens them up to escape and too tight can leave them uncomfortable. There's little he doesn't know about dogs. TopDog loves agility but is far too unfit to keep up. Offers advice and articles on dog harnesses, collars, travel, food and temperament. Is woeful at speaking foreign languages. Tru-Fit Harness with Seatbelt from Kurgo Yes, you should prefer a harness as it is better than a collar for your Lab puppy. This is because they are safer and offer much more control. A harness can also reduce strains compared to the collar which can cause tension around the delicate neck of your Lab puppy. The following are some of the biggest advantages of using a harness on your Lab puppy. Injuries Can be Prevented Harness always takes pressure away from the neck of your Labrador puppy. So you can pull the leash without hurting the dog. More importantly, this will help Labs to pull the lead without getting any injuries by themselves. Despite this, you should still teach your dog to not pull on the leash. But with harnesses, there is enhanced space for your dog to grow and it will not put any pressure on the neck of your Lab puppy. Provide Control without Cruelty This is the reverse of the final disadvantage of dog collars. It can be used if you are losing control of your pup. In this situation, you can use sheer force to hold back your Lab without causing undue pain and discomfort. In the case of collar, when you try to stop a fleeing Labrador by applying force, it can cause serious pain. Although Labs may respond quicker when you use collar, it is a very unkind act for pups. When can a Labrador Puppy Climb Stairs? Click here to find out. First thing first, it is important to purchase a proper size harness for your Lab puppy. You should start with a small-sized harness, depending upon the age and size of your puppy. The best way to find out whether the dog harness is too small for your Lab puppy is to put the harness properly on your dog. Start with fairly loose so that your dog can easily slip into the harness. Then, tighten it and check whether the harness fits properly by fitting two fingers between your dog and the harness at any point. Harnesses are a great choice for Lab puppies. However, owners need to choose the one in which their dog remains comfortable. You should start with the small one and move to the bigger sizes depending upon the size of your puppy. A harness should be tight enough so that your dog will stop slipping from it, especially if he suddenly reverses on you. However, if there is still gap after the fitting of two fingers, then the harness is too loose or big for your Labrador puppy. Want to make a good homemade meal for your Labrador Puppy? The Lab puppies can wear a harness when they are 8 weeks old. Owners should make sure that the harness is not too heavy or uncomfortable for their dogs. The following table shows the size of Labrador puppies in comparison to their age so that the owners can choose the best size. Front and back Long lines are best attached from the back The back-attachment point is ideal for long lines. Attaching it to the front risks the entangling of the front legs. A front and back harness gives maximum flexibility. Double ended Two leash attachment points Using a back-attachment point lets you use a double-ended leash. A single-ended leash can tighten the harness when only attached to the front. Different harnesses have variable tightness degrees. One with front and back attachment reduces gaping by balancing tension. Clipping the leash attachments at two points sounds too much, but it is best. Optimal control comes from a properly fitted dog harness. Handling large pets become effortless. Material Material quality is the first factor. Nylon, polyester, and breathable hybrid materials are a few options. The harness must not put much pressure on the neck and throat. The pull should be evenly distributed throughout the chest and body. Look for a harness guaranteeing sturdiness and comfort. Strength A 6 month old lab can also drag you in public. Labradors are naturally inclined to swim, play and have high energy. Labs are famous military dogs. Dogs without no-pull training can be challenging to maintain in long walks. A harness with extra padding provides the required strength. Look for safety features, reliable buckles, and quality stitching only. Size Labradors are medium-sized dogs that mature at six months. But they grow after maturity too. A harness with an adjustable strap is handy. A labrador retriever continues to grow for two years. Opt for a flexible harness that can be adjusted. Adjustability Adjustability is a vital consideration for young pups. Adjustable harnesses fit any body type or size. Ensure the clips are adjustable and well-built. A strong and popular breed like a labrador can break cheap clips. Comfort Double padding is a must for both young and old dogs. A soft harness is comfortable and prevents injuries. Some are only made for running and keep your dog in great shape. Safety Safety features like reflective material is a must-have. It increases dog visibility during early morning or night walks. Labrador retrievers who are likely to escape are more secure with such features. Some come with attached handles for more security. It is easier to grab your pet if they take off. Harnesses with seat belt features are also becoming popular. Durability Durability becomes vital if you buy a harness for the lab puppy. Always pick harnesses with a higher durability rating. An extremely durable dog harness will last from puppyhood to adulthood. Go for fully adjustable ones for the best results. Cost Budget is essential but comes second to quality. Buying cheaper products will make you spend again. Though cheap pet products are pocket-friendly, they lack quality. Get a good harness instead of going for cheap ones. Soft vests are best for puppies and older labradors. A front, rear, or dual clip harness is great for adult labs. From dual clip to step-in harnesses, there are several. Labrador Vest Harness These are basic walk harnesses. They are simple, lightweight, and inexpensive and made of mesh, plastic, or nylon. Dog owners with well-behaved dogs on leashes can get these. But the front and back clip harness can be attached at all the points. A double-ended leash is required for the front clip attachment. One point is attached at the front and another at the back. It provides more control over your escape artist. A no-pull dog harness minimizes the pup pulls without hurting them. Tactical Dog Harnesses These are popular for training, trekking, and hunting. Besides labs, it is ideal for other dog breeds, like German Shepherds. Military and service dogs wear tactical harnesses often. Tightening and Control Harness These harnesses are more aggressive than standard ones. They will tighten when your dog pulls. Dog chests can be squeezed on tightening. Experienced trainers and dog handlers use them best. Not sure which chest piece is right for your dog? Our list comprises of the 10 best harnesses for labradors. They are made from sturdy material and have the necessary safety features. Now lets look at all the harnesses one by one. A good labrador harness requires time, effort, and patience to buy. Avoid cheap harnesses that can snap, fall apart, or break. Ensure the chest piece fits well and is not tight. The dog must move with ease wearing the harness. The no-pull harness alone is not enough. Train your labrador retriever for adequate results. Measure the neck and the chest for an accurate fit. Add two inches to the chest measurement in case your lab gains weight. Check the tightness after fastening the clips and buckles. Your two fingers must fit to ensure it is comfortable. If not, then it is too tight. But a harness is comfortable and makes training straightforward. Lab puppies may bite the leash too much initially. However, showing patience will go a long way. Here are a few tips to acclimatize dogs:- Positive reinforcement training is best to accustom your lab. Giving them treats or toys when they follow commands is beneficial. Start slow and small. Place the harness on the floor and let them explore. Let the dog get used to the buckles and leash. You can treat them for being brave and sniffing. Put on the harness if you see progress. Let the dog walk around wearing the harness. Even if it is for a few minutes, treat them. Start with small neighborhood strolls if the dog is confident. Increase the walk durations gradually for smoothness. Irrespective of their style, you need the best harnesses for effective energy management. These athletic dogs are up for everything from trekking to hunting. You need a high-quality harness for your lively pooch. The best harnesses for labradors are:- RabbitGoo is best if you want to control your large lab easily. Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart is for labradors having frequent car rides. Eagloo dog harness provides maximum comfort with its breathable material. Each harness offers unique features and benefits. The final call comes down to your requirements. Harnesses are better suited for walking dogs. Collars are more comfortable and hold the ID. Vets suggest using a harness for many dogs with breathing issues. Should a Labrador wear a harness? Labradors are athletic and sturdy. Having a harness makes them easier to manage. Be it walks, hikes, or treks, they are secured. What size harness for lab puppy is best? You will need at least a 9-inch long collar for a lab puppy. Most labrador retrievers fit into the large harness category. For accuracy, take labrador measurements. How do I stop my Labrador from pulling on the leash? Starting leash training with a harness early is suggested. Teach them self-control and practice attention. Treat them when the position is correct. Do not let pulling reinforce. Should I use a collar or harness for my Lab? Dog Harnesses are considered humane for pets. They give more control than collars. Different harness types also make it easier to choose for your lab pup. What size harness for 8 week lab puppy? The size range for a small harness for an 8-week-old Labrador puppy is: Chest: inches. Back Attachment Harnesses As the name suggest, these harnesses have the attachment for a leash on the back of the dog, sitting right behind the shoulder blades. However, you should know this: A harness that attaches a leash to the back is the worst kind of harness to use with a dog that likes to pull! So do not use them for this case. With the dog leash attached to their back, it can actually encourage pulling. It feels good to a dog, they like to oppose the pulling from behind with more pulling going forward. Front Attachment Harnesses Again, as the name suggests, these harnesses have an attachment for the leash at the front of your dog, right in the middle of their chest. So if they pull, they get turned. This is NOT the result they are after. A dog soon learns that they only get to go forward if they do not pull while wearing such a harness. And so — voila — the problem is solved. Front attaching harnesses are for stopping pulling while on a WALK, not a run or jog. The straps could become tangled, and this would be dangerous for you and your dog. For this you will need to train them not to pull and use a back attaching harness instead. Head Harness or Head Collar Not really a harness in the strictest of terms, but they are frequently described as such and are always grouped with the harnesses by retailers. Regardless, they are a great no-pull dog harness solution so I will include and discuss them here. Once their head is turned, it stops them dead in their tracks. So pulling only makes the walk stop, it effectively has an averse aspect to it the walk is stopped. They learn to not pull while wearing the head collar. A quick word of caution: You simply MUST allow your dog time to slowly get used to wearing the collar, how it feels and works, before ever using it on a walk. Some training and acclimatizing is needed and this could take perhaps a few days, though many dogs do take to them right away. Freedom No Pull Dog Harness The freedom no pull harness is a multi-purpose harness with many fantastic features, making it our top pick of all no pull solutions. It has a martingale style loop on the back so you can attach a leash to the rear and if your dog pulls, it puts gentle pressure on their chest and discourages pulling. The other benefit of the rear attachment is in case you like to go jogging with your dog. However, the more effective no pull solution is the attachment for a leash on the chest that will gently steer your dog if they begin to pull. You can attach a leash to the back, to the front, or even both to give yourself different levels of control and anti-pull aversion. The harness is extremely durable and the manufacturer will replace free of charge up to 2 chewed straps if your dog does manage to do damage. This is the best no pull dog harness we give top marks to and is our number 1 recommendation! Bonus: It currently comes with full details of a step-by-step training system to help you stop your dog pulling long term. PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness This simple, front of chest attaching harness gives you the ability to gently steer your dog to the side, stop their pulling and redirect their attention on to you when they pull. The placement of the leash attachment assures this happens automatically every time they pull and so it very quickly teaches them not to pull while walking. Made from strong and durable nylon webbing, with quick release snap attachments makes it very easy to put on and remove. Available in 8 different sizes for different girths and 7 colors, there is a harness to suit all dogs sizes and owners tastes. Head collars are also available and some say are even more effective than traditional, chest attachment harnesses. We discuss two of the most effective and most popular options below. But most dogs take to it very quickly and easily. Therefore, if they do pull, their nose automatically gets turned, their head follows and instantly they become facing you. Your dog cannot pull if they are facing toward you so with this device, as soon as they pull they instinctively stop and the problem is managed…and within just a few minutes of first use! Available in 5 sizes from XS to XL, and 8 different colors, there is a size and color to suit every dog. Like all the harnesses on this page, they are short term solutions. This has absolutely no effect on the eventual price that you pay and we are very grateful for your support. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Instead, they can prevent injuries from a dog getting tangled in their leash or pulling too hard with a collar. We consider them an excellent training aid that makes using a leash easier for both you and your pup. Many include other features that are handy, such as lift handles for dogs that need help standing. Type and Construction A Retriever is a good-sized dog, weighing anywhere from 50—80 ponds. Therefore, you need a harness that can control him and is durable enough to stand up to the challenge. There are several types, each one with its pros and cons. This style is an excellent choice for pups that get tangled in their leash because it keeps it away from their feet. The force of the leash goes to his back, instead. However, if your pooch is muscular with less-than-perfect leash manners, you may find him harder to manage with this type of harness. Front-Clip Harness The front-clip harness puts you in charge of your pup while requiring less work on your part. You can easily redirect him if necessary. The tightening harness takes care of that issue with a gentle tug that gets your Lab back on point. Just as with an unruly stallion, this type will give you control over your larger Retriever. Kind of Closure There are also several variations on the type of closure and how it secures on your Lab. It is the most popular option. There are also quick-release and bolt-on products. Material Nylon, by far, is the most common harness material. It offers a lot of advantages for Lab owners. They are lightweight. They will also dry quickly after a romp in the lake chasing a ball. These products are also affordably priced and excellent value for the money. You can get a blaze orange one for hunting and another in your choice of many colors and designs. Mesh is another popular choice for the same reasons. Another option for your water-loving pooch is neoprene for those winter walks. Other choices include polyester, canvas, and fleece. We prefer products that you can wash in between uses. A waterproof product is a welcome addition we appreciate. If you take your dog for evening walks, a reflective harness is a must-have. Other options you may find are padding over the chest portion for added comfort, personalization, and dual-clip items that you can attach in front or back. We liked the extra security that this last feature offers. However, the most important thing is comfort, especially if your pup pulls. Most products include a range of inches for each of the key measurements. A harness is not like buying a pair of pants for yourself. Many have different systems of adjusting the size. You need to take three measurements. Finally, you must find out the length of his back. Bear in mind that not all products will specify these three. Some only consider the chest size with adjusting parts for the others. We recommend two inches or the width of two fingers between the strap and your dog. The point is to make it snug to prevent escaping but not too tight to make your pup uncomfortable. After all, avoiding neck damage is one reason that pet owners opt to use a harness over a collar. We also suggest looking at the kind of adjustment on the harness. A sliding one with a clasp gives you a lot more leeway as opposed to a buckle, which has set holes. Of course, it is a fine balance between security on both ends of the spectrum. Its comfortable design was one of the most important features we considered. It provides the necessary snugness without the tightness that can make wearing it irritating. The Sporn Non-Pull Mesh Dog Harness is our pick for best value, thanks to its lightweight design that stands up to pullers. The research for our reviews taught us a vital lesson. These products are highly specialized for the dog, its leash manners, and the amount of control you must have over your Lab. These pups often make simple things like walks a challenge. However, with the right harness, it becomes a non-issue. Featured image credit: PxHere. The critical difference is the degree of dressing up required. This is a moment of personal reflection: do you have a tough time getting out of the house to take your Labrador for a walk? Minimizing the effort required to take your dog walking will ensure that you actually take him out. If your Labrador pulls on his lead, the pressure can quickly start producing irreversible damage. Can Trouble Dogs Even the most humane collars can bother some Labradors. Most new puppies might have trouble accepting a heavy collar. Starting with a light collar at an early age can offset this disadvantage. Some dog trainers can lead-train dogs with collars by building on a foundation of familiarity set by owners who get their dogs to accept light collars early on. This means both products need to be able to cater to different sizes. Most harnesses can house a range of body sizes. But when it comes to collars, your Labrador might start choking on the collar without you realizing it. Adjustable collars can offset this problem. In my opinion, even if you have compassionately trained your Labrador to accept his collar and even go on long walks with the lead attached to the said collar, what happens when your dog gets over-excited? It is quite literally impossible to hold him in position without choking him. Verdict on Dog Collars Dog collars are great to indicate ownership and protect your Labrador from being assumed and treated as a stray. Apart from that, I see no advantage in collars, especially when walking on a lead. So a nuanced approach would be to use a light collar and use a harness whenever you use a lead so that you can sidestep the dangers of lead walking a puppy with a collar. More importantly, your Labrador can pull the lead without hurting himself. More Room for Error If your Labrador puppy wears a collar, you need to follow his growth closely lest the collar begins choking him. Above all, it is more noticeable when your puppy outgrows his harness compared to when he outgrows his collar. In the worst-case scenario, you get to hold back your Lab with sheer force without hurting him as much. Tugging on a collar when your Labrador is trying his best to get away is heartless. That said, you should note that dogs give in more easily when their collar is tugged compared to holding back a harness. The ease, however, is mutually exclusive with kindness in this instance as a submission comes through the pain with a collar. In other words, a harness is something you would want on your pup only on walks. Most well-trained Labradors can go without a harness for short walks, and the harness is left for lead walks. Your Dog Will Take Time to Get Used to It This is a size-driven disadvantage that seems like a logical tradeoff when compared to the burden it offsets. I believe removing cruelty from the equation is well worth the relatively long waiting period. Starting with a light harness with a young Lab puppy is a perfect way to normalize it. Both collars and harnesses are uncomfortable initially, and in the long run, your dog can get used to both. While some trainers make arguments for collars, they are almost exclusively positioned as okay for larger dogs with stronger necks. This makes a harness your only option when out walking. Should a Labrador Wear a Harness? We have already established that harnesses are gentler than collars on Labradors. So, this may have you wondering, should Labradors wear a harness? A Labrador should wear a harness so that you can control him when he gets over-excited on a walk. A harness also allows your dog to keeps his neck safe when you have him on a tight leash. Doing the same with a collar could cause choking, damage to the trachea, or nerve damage. Harness vs. Collar For a Labrador Puppy Harness Advantages Prevents injuries to the neck Allows a lost dog to be identified from a tag Allows more control Easier to wear for tracking Allows room for growth. There is therefore no risk of the harness rubbing behind the legs. There are no martingale attachments anywhere on this harness, so there is nothing to tighten anywhere when the dog pulls. The Balance harness has both front-and-back attachment points. Just like all front-and-back attachment harnesses, this gives you great flexibility. The harness is really good quality and the metalware is likewise. This means that dogs that dislike having something placed over their heads, can have the Balance put around their neck in a similar way to a snap-up collar. Any gaping really is very minimal when both attachment-points are used, even less than on the Freedom. It is essentially always a black harness, but the vertical strap on the back comes in different colors. If you have multiple dogs, the colored back strap is sufficient for telling you which harness belongs to which dog. But if you are someone who loves different colored harnesses, the Balance may not suit — check out the Freedom. According to the manufacturer, you can attach just to the front-attachment point. But the Balance works best when used in conjunction with a double-fastening leash. So you will need to purchase one separately. The Balance harness does tend to rotate slightly when in use. The neck and girth straps slightly pull the colored back strap off vertical. If this troubles you, check out the Perfect Fit below. Similarly, it would be really hard for even a seasoned escapologist to back out of a Perfect Fit harness. For a growing Labrador puppy, it is possible just to purchase and replace one piece of the three needed for a harness. Should the chewing-machine that is your Labrador puppy, succeed in chewing through the front of the harness, again, just that part would need to be replaced. The Perfect Fit also has a 40mm thick option. This is a very comfortable and stylish-looking harness for large or strong Labradors. The Perfect Fit harness has both front-and-back attachment points, just like the Freedom and Balance, giving the same flexibility. It is safe to be left on the dog when running off-leash. The harness is webbing, backed by soft fleece. This makes for a really comfortable and soft harness, for your Labrador. This means that dogs which dislike having something placed over their heads, can have the Perfect Fit put around their neck. The front-attachment is a large metal D-ring. My plan is to wrap the metal D-ring in duck tape, to silence it. You will need to purchase one of those separately. I anticipate this getting worse with the next few washes. This does not affect the comfort or function of the harness, obviously. Labs love to swim, and have been known to roll in stinky things! Ordering Issues? Lastly, I should say that I had heard about the Perfect Fit harness for about a year before I finally bought one to trial. Selecting three different-sized component parts for a harness and choosing a width of strap is a much more involved process than choosing one size. The Dog-Games website has become a lot easier now, with breed recommendations, but some buyers might still find it confusing. And my top three picks of front-and-back fastening harnesses for Labrador Retrievers are:.

ALL our dogs reside in foster homes in TX. Please fill out an adoption application at haydudeeqine. I am on the prowl for my fur-ever home now since I was found abandoned at the neighborhood doggie park. I'm not sure what I did that was so bad to just leave me there cuz I'm really a very good girl. They think I'm around 2 years old and weigh in at about 30lbs. I am house trained, calm and obedient. I try my best not to make any extra work for my foster mommy. I absolutely adore kids, they are just the next best thing since milkbones in my book. I do very well with other pups too! My ideal home would have a nice big fenced backyard that comes already stocked with playful siblings hopefully both the 2 and 4 legged variety to chase around stealing.At 30lbs I'm at that great size to accompany an active family on all their outdoor activities. I'd love to go with you on nature hikes or camping in the wilderness. I'd even make a great cheering section if any of 'our' kids are on a sports team! Both breeds of my hairytage are known to make great loyal family additions. Puppy Breeds The well-conditioned middleweight athlete of dogdom, the Boxer is a powerful dog with an intelligent and alert expression. While they are instinctive guardians, the Boxer loves to be with his people. This personality has allowed them to succeed as couriers during war time and as seeing-eye dogs for the blind. Appearing in both fawn and brindle colors, the Boxer currently ranks as one of the most popular dogs in the United States according to AKC Registration Statistics. History Developed in Germany in the 19th century, Boxers were originally used for dog fighting and to run down and hold large game such as wild boar and bison until the hunter could arrive. The breed is known for standing up on its hind legs and batting at its opponent, appearing to box with its front paws. Imported to America after World War I, they began to grow in popularity in the late s. Temperament One of the breeds most notable characteristics is its desire for human affection, especially from children. The Boxer requires little grooming, but needs daily exercise. The Boxer gets along great with children, often protecting them from outside threats. The are also very intelligent, therefor easy to train and housebreak. Working Group; AKC recognized in .Large game hunter, guard and companion dog.

Menu Menu Black and Tan French Bulldog puppies If you are searching for the perfect black and tan French bulldog puppies for sale , look no further! Our French bulldog puppies for sale come from some of the top genetics in the entire world. We also offer solid colored frenchies including pure black french bulldog puppies. Black and tan French Bulldog Here at designer French bulldogs we specialize in top genetics that first and foremost look at structure, temperament and DNA. With the proper structure and correct genetics our black and tan French Bulldog puppies are some of the nicest in the world. Sure, buying a black and tan Frenchie puppy for sale can be easy or challenging. Once you have located the best French bulldog breeders near me, it is time to find the right French Bulldog puppy for sale near me. All of our Frenchies for sale breed stock is genetic health tested 4 panel clear! No matter which French bulldog puppies for sale you purchase, all come with the same guarantee. Unfortunately, we receive a ton of spam calls, so texting to setup a call works best! Our pups fly anywhere in USA. All of our litters for the year are coming up, so you miss out on this next one, there is another litter due 8 days thereafter! Once you have decided you would like to purchase one of our amazing pups, please fill out the Designer French Bulldogs puppy contract and email it to us at DesignerFrenchAbulls AT Gmail. Please fill out the form to get on our puppy waiting list. French bulldog puppies Frenchies for sale can be found in all shapes, sizes and colors. When choosing a blue french bulldog puppy for sale, you will need to do your homework, and not rush. There are so many back yard breeders that have taken to selling on social media. Buying the right blue frenchie puppy for sal e is key to enjoying what the breed standard is supposed to be. When you buy a puppy from us, you not only receive a health guarantee, you also receive years of support and decades of genetic work all in one blue frenchie puppy. Black and Tan French Bulldog pups If you are searching for the perfect black and tan French bulldog puppies for sale , look no further! Our French bulldog puppie come from some of the top genetics in the entire world. Black and Tan Frenchie is a popular color combination for sure. Black French Bulldog puppies near me Looking for the perfect brindle french bulldog puppies for sale? Brindle French Bulldog puppies for sale are more common than most other French Bulldog colors. Not considered one of the more rare French bulldog colors , a brindle Frenchie puppy is thought by some Frenchie breeders to also come with better structure than other colors. As one of the best french bulldog breeders around, we work with some of the best French Bulldog genetics. Brindle French bulldogs are more common and we typically do not have them available as we primarily work with rare Frenchie colors. Interestingly, most high level black Frenchie breeders work for structure and confirmation over color. Brindle Frenchie pups are most common and probably the most affordable. Chocolate Frenchie Puppies are also part of the new Isabella program and is responsible now for some beautiful new colors. These new colors, also known as new shade, or new shades are based on carrying either 1 or 2 copies of the Chocolate gene allele. We do work with some chocolate carrier females within our program, usually for purpose of producing Isabella. If you are searching for a chocolate french bulldog puppy for sale, check our available waiting list spots for Chocolate. Most of our French Bulldog Puppies for sale can be found on our website. Chocolate French bulldog puppies for sale While not always available, we do work with Chocolate carrying females and have beautiful chocolate pups from time to time. The shade of chocolate being a milk chocolate color rather than dark more often than not. From time to time we have brown shade and brown shade tan babies available as well. The chocolate color gene offers quite a variety of differently shaded French bulldog puppies for sale. If you are interested in further exploring French bulldog genetics or French bulldog colors for rare French bulldog colors , feel free to check out the pages we have put together for educational purposes. Fluffy French Bulldog The newest and rarest and some say the cutest is the fluffy french bulldog. The way the fluffy French Bulldog gene works is that both parents must carry a copy of the L4 gene. If each parent carries at least one copy, than the puppies will either be visually fluffy or carry at least one copy of the gene for long fur. Fluffy black French Bulldog puppies for sale From time to time, we will offer some beautiful fluffy french bulldog puppies for sale to approved homes. Since they are so rare, our Fluffy parents cost in the neighborhood of k per dog. This means the fluffy puppies cost will be significantly higher than even the other rare colors. Keep in mind these are going to be amazing pups and absolutely as stunning visually as they are rare. Fluffy Black and Tan Frenchie for sale Like all other Frenchies, Fluffers come in different colors including all of the common and rare French Bulldog colors. French bulldog genetics are fun to work with and we are able to create some of the most amazing fluffy black and tan Frenchie you will ever see. While they are all gorgeous, the rarer colors besides the fluffy black and tan Frenchies will cost more than the more common. For example, a Lilac tan Fluffy will cost more than a brindle fluffy. At the same time, a Isabella Fluffy will cost more than a Lilac Fluff. French bulldog puppies near me are available all over the USA but finding quality is not easy. With a real animal biologist on site, our owner! Isabella French Bulldog One of the rarest and most sought after of all French Bulldog colors, owning an Isa is not cheap or easy! Finding an Isabella french bulldog puppy for sale is both extensive in time and expensive in cost! What color is it actually? A tan but more vibrant is easiest to describe. Some even can border on pink, and now there is even Pink Isa shades coming available. Isabella Frenchies puppies They are sure beautiful and rare, but are they any different than other beautiful Frenchie colors? That is a call only the puppies owner can make. Below you will find a graphic that displays some of the versions of the Isabella Frenchie puppies for sale genes that can be expressed in a variety of ways both genotypical carrying and phenotypical visual. Lilac French Bulldog puppies for sale Until about a decade ago, Lilac Frenchie for sale were a figment of imagination. After years of careful breeding, Lilac French bulldog breeder groups were able to create a beautiful pigment that almost glows light purple, or lilac, and named it accordingly. Sometimes people will confuse lilac with blue but Lilac is normally going to be lighter, and react much differently to light itself. The way a lilac french bulldog puppy for sale looks is significantly lighter than a blue french bulldog puppy. Lilac Merle French bulldog make up an amazing group of color combinations. Close in look to the blue Merle French Bulldog , the lilac is even more rare. Frenchie puppies for sale of all colors are considered more expensive due to the cost of c sections and stud fees, and these guys are no different. Black and tan French Bulldog No matter the color, all of our French bulldogs for sale , come with our full health guarantee. All of our Black and Tan Frenchies for sale breed stock is genetic health tested 4 panel clear! Be sure to check out all our pages about Frenchies for sale including some of the best genetics in all the world About Designer French Bulldogs Designer French Bulldogs is a family run French Bulldog Breeder working with top bloodlines. We breed for shorter bodies and legs, not long legged giraffes. We are proud that all of our Frenchie puppies for sale are raised in our home with our children, under foot. Every single French Bulldog puppy are well socialized and you can expect a playful, smart, inquisitive and loving professional Snuggle Bug. Available Puppies Notification List. So, French Bulldogs are expensive and rare dogs such as Black and Tan are even more expensive. The downside of not being recognized by the AKC is that these dogs are often mixed with other dogs to get the desired color. And breeders often go to great lengths to deceive others to make extra money. I recommend buying from a reputable breeder and investigating previous buyers to ensure you get the right and healthy dog. French Bulldogs are sensitive dogs and are only meant to be pet dogs, not guard or working dogs. Many upscale food companies use organic beef, duck, turkey, lamb, and seafood in their dishes. Your dog must consume this kind of meat to survive. Your dog cannot consistently consume vegetables because it is a carnivore. Greens are Good You can supplement your diet with veggies or purchase food containing pre-mixed vegetables. Additionally, vegetables offer nutrients that meats frequently lack. Fats could Essential The skin and coat of your Frenchie are kept healthy and shiny by omega-3 fatty acids. Examples of Omega-3 include coconut oil and fish oil. Your veterinarian may suggest a diet that contains the important fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid DHA for your French bulldog puppies. After consulting the vet, you can also add calcium and iron to its diet. Owning a Black and Tan Frenchie might make you ecstatic because they are uncommon and exotic. Black and Tan Frenchies are gentle, mellow, and calm dogs. They are the greatest canines to have in a tiny house or apartment due to their compact bodies and small size. A little dog is the best dog for folks in NYC and other big cities. They shed less and need less care because of their short coats. So these canines are ideal if you tend to be a little lazy. The pedigree of unrecognized dogs is also hard to verify. Frenchies are attention-craving dogs, and they can easily develop separation anxiety. Tips for Taking Care of Black and Tan French Bulldogs Some people believe that the best approach to raising your puppy is unique, which may be true for their circumstances. Nevertheless, the following advice may assist you and your Black and Tan Frenchie in becoming stronger and healthier than any other dog. Give It a Proper Diet French Bulldogs require a diet high in protein but must also be rich in veggies and lipids. Vitamins should also be present in the diet. The absolute minimum that you can and should do for your dog is to treat them for fleas and worms and ensure they received all necessary immunizations while they were still puppies. Exercise for Proper Development Because Frenchies are lazy and enjoy lounging around, you must give your dog at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Please take a walk once a day. Just be aware of any signs of overheating because Frenchies can quickly become overheated if forced to push themselves excessively. Keeping your French Bulldog mentally and physically active is necessary for keeping it healthy. Obedience and Discipline Training To preserve your power over the puppy, obedience training is necessary. Due to their tenacious nature, Frenchies occasionally try to undermine your authority by disobeying you. You must train your dog in some fundamental manners while remaining strong yet gentle. These fundamental lessons in the discipline are sat, stand, stay, come, and go. Black and Tan French Bulldogs result from recessive genes from both parents, making them rare. On top of that, French Bulldogs require artificial insemination as their anatomy does not allow them to breed naturally. What is the Most Expensive Type of Frenchie? Isabella and Fluffy French Bulldogs are the most expensive and rare Frenchies you can buy. Despite having a few cons to it, the Black and Tan French Bulldogs make some of the best pets, and no there is no doubt why everyone loves them. The moment you bring them into your home, you will notice the joy they bring. This refers to colors which are bred purely for profit and are not done so to enhance the breed in terms of health. They often have health issues It is widely accepted that French Bulldogs have a large number of health concerns. Whilst good breeding can alleviate some of the issues below is a list of common health problems, how to spot them and manage them if possible. Allergies Whilst not unique to Frenchies they are known to suffer more than other breeds. Also it can show through watery eyes, ear infections or sneezing. If you suspect allergy issues it is best to discuss with a vet around possible treatments. This usually results in snoring and noisy breathing. It can however lead to retching, regurgitaion and vomiting and it certainly lowers their tolerance to heat. Skin Fold Dermatitis Whilst we love their wrinkles and skinfolds it can lead to issues within these folds. Ear Infections Due to the shape of the French Bulldog they can have issues in keeping their ears clean. Often these areas become breeding grounds for bacteria. In order to clean them the first rule is not to put anything inside the ear, this often just compacts any dirt within the ear. It is best to use an ear cleaner to break down the dirt. Corneal Ulcers As a result of the eyes standing more predominately on their face they are at risk of eye issues. They can also be born with small amounts of tissue sticking out of their eye. Back and Spine issues Unfortunately it is more common in Frenchies for them to have issues around their back and necks. This often results in back pain and sometimes slipped discs. Often these issues will display themselves later in life and it is best to consult a vet. However they have a very different origin compared to what the name would suggest. They were first popularised in England where smaller Bulldogs were bred to be Toy Bulldogs. They were popular within the English Lace industry which was primarily centred in Nottingham. Their migration across to France followed closely that of the lace industry. This relates to a number of factors most notable their short legs, narrow hips and compact body. Unsurprisingly there are still ways for them to reproduce and this requires breeders to artificially inseminate them. I will spare the details but if you want to know how this process works then read this article. Even the most common of color combinations comes with a hefty price tag attached due to the need for specialised breeding. Post navigation. Close Privacy Overview This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Read More Necessary Always Enabled Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information. Non-necessary Non-necessary Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. They have a sleek and shiny black coat with no brindling to it what-so-ever, and gorgeous tan points predominantly above their eyes, cheeks, and lower legs. The contrast of the tan points against the black is just stunning! Leia is a gorgeous black and tan female whose tan points are very apparent and striking. Click on pictures to enlarge and to view full images of Leia. Summer is a very rare beauty. She is a beautiful black and tan girl, who looks like her handsome daddy, Django. You can see the beautiful tan points on her lower legs and hopefully in the coming weeks she will have the distinctive tan points on her face like Django. She will have no brindling to her beautiful black coat, which gives it a very sleek and shiny appearance. Click on pictures to enlarge and to view full images of Summer. Darth is the brother to Leia as you can probably see the resemblance. He too has gorgeous tan points and despite his name, is as sweet as can be! Click on pictures to enlarge and to view full images of Darth. You can see Rocket at around and Drax at around .Check out some of our other puppies. October 20, To some, a Doberman is too much dog. Abby loves Atlas, but wants a smaller companion dog. Meet Loki, our black and tan tri-color French bulldog. We made plans to eventually add a Frenchie to our family roughly a year ago, during the dead middle of the pandemic. He look like a tiny version of Atlas. We named our newest family member Loki, a fitting name for such a cute feisty little dog with attitude! Puppy Pick-up Day The decision to acquire a Frenchie so quickly was half impulsive and half luck. While we maintain loyalty to our breeders, we were also determined to get a Frenchie puppy by the first quarter of .After a communicating with a few SoCal Frenchie breeders, we found one in northeast Los Angeles county that has a black and tan tri-color French bulldog puppy available for immediate pickup. We talked to the breeder and asked questions, we exchanged text and Instagram messages and then confirmed our commitment to pick up the puppy the following day. And in less than 12 hours, we have a new member in our family. The drive was 79 miles from our location, roughly an hour and a half. The good thing about this is Loki is fully vaccinated minus the rabies shot and is semi potty trained. He is trained to pee and defecate on a puppy pad, which we can work with. Loki will receive vaccination for rabies and canine influenza, then register him with our city just as we did with Atlas. Introducing Loki to Atlas Atlas is no stranger to other dogs. After all, he has spent many nights boarding at Dogtopia. He also spent just as many days there for doggy daycare, playing with many other dogs of all breed and size. Atlas took an immediate liking of Loki and a prolonged, slow introduction as recommended by many sites was not necessary. Loki spooked Atlas out at first, but he remained very curious and inquisitive of him. He kept sniffing at him and did not show any sign of aggression at all. He started sniffing Atlas and eventually began chasing after him! Before we knew it, they were chasing each other by the end of the second day. On the third day, Atlas gradually let down his guard and allowed Loki to climb all over him. Once he becomes accustomed to crate dwelling, we will upgrade his crate to a Revol collapsible dog crate by Diggs. We will add a Snooze Crate Pad , also by Diggs, once Loki is about 6 months old or can hold his bladder for at least 6 hours. This is a little tricky for Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays since I can only visit Loki during my lunch break. And by the time I get to him, he usually peed in his crate. Thursdays, Fridays and the weekend are no issues since either of us will be home to continue the training. The First Few Nights As expected, Loki cried for nearly 3 hours during the first night due to separation anxiety. He also peed and defecated in his crate at around 12 midnight. We tag teamed to clean the crate tray and gave Loki a shampoo bath. The second night however, he only cried for twenty minutes before going to bed. We took him out twice in the middle of the night at AM and at AM. Loki eats at the same time as Atlas. His breakfast is at AM and his dinner is at PM. We may eventually introduce raw canine diet to Loki but we will wait until he is a little older. We will be adding another Doberman in to complete the pack. It will be another West Coast Doberman puppy, red and female this time around. We hope to acquire this new puppy in the fourth quarter of before relocating out of SoCal in .Share this:.

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. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. However, it is still advised to ask for a senior-specific diet from your vet or pet nutritionist just to be safe. If you choose to give your German Shepherd dog homemade foods in all of its life stages, you may need to self-calculate and monitor its daily calorie consumption. Feeding German Shepherds has numerous factors to consider. How much you are providing them is crucial, but knowing how often you need to feed them is essential, too. Initially, feeding German Shepherd puppies begins with four puppy food meals daily. Then gradually, it should be transitioned into three equally proportioned meals a day at two months old. This gradual change should go on until they are 12 months old. After that, they should eat twice a day naturally during adulthood. Young puppies have a faster metabolism compared to adult dogs. In general, the last meal of your puppy for the day should be hours before its bedtime, so they have enough time to digest the food before they go to sleep. As for transitioning puppies to adult German Shepherds, the three meals should be given in the morning, noon, and nighttime, so they may be provided with a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is crucial for their growth, especially if they are active and working dogs. Having a feeding schedule can also help monitor their food intake to avoid weight-related issues. The optimal feeding time for adult and senior German Shepherds would be during the morning and night for their two meals daily. Lastly, as owners, we must seldom give treats to our German Shepherds, preferably only during training. Too much of anything may be bad for your dog. Moreover, it should provide the sufficient nutrients needed for growth and development. There are many commercial dog foods in the market, but you can also offer your GSD puppy homemade dog food or a raw diet. Consulting a vet is strongly advised to give your German Shepherd the best diet suited for its lifestyle. To help you in this dilemma, the list below has dog food options you may want to consider offering to your GSD puppy: Dry Food: Dry food or kibble is a commercial food widely available in pet stores and dog food manufacturers. A number of dry foods are formulated to provide a balanced diet for dogs, but checking their nutritional guidelines and value is crucial since a German Shepherd puppy may need high carb foods. It can be mixed with their dry kibble to add water or moisture to their diet. These kinds of commercial foods are expensive and can spoil quickly, and they may not be enough if fed alone to your puppy. BARF Diet: Biologically Appropriate Raw Food is a type of diet that consists of raw meat, raw eggs, crushed animal bones, fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and other natural ingredients. Raw feeding is given as a substitute for processed foods with preservatives. We know a German Shepherd is a large breed dog. However, males tend to grow bigger and heavier than females, needing more food consumption. A German Shepherd puppy may need to eat at frequent schedules with smaller meals, while adult ones may not need to be fed much often but will need more significant meal portions each time. They tend to eat whatever falls from the dinner table or even whatever food they set their sights on. As we talk about food diets, we must not forget those foods you must avoid feeding your German Shepherd puppy. Generally, they may not be too sensitive to dog foods or ingredients, but other foods may be fatal to them. Coffee is one of the most toxic foods to dogs. They contain caffeine , which causes cardiac arrhythmias, high blood pressure, vomiting, tremors, and seizures. Another toxic food German Shepherd owners should not feed their dog is chocolate. As yummy as this is, chocolates contain theobromine. All dog breeds cannot metabolize this substance. Gums, peanut butter, and candies that contain xylitol are also toxic to dogs. It causes disorientation, hypoglycemia, seizures, and collapse. This is much more threatening than coffee and chocolate, so you need to be extra careful with this. Aside from those mentioned above, there are many other toxic foods you should avoid feeding German Shepherds. They may not be fatal, but they can cause discomfort and progress to severe diseases. If you doubt certain foods or ingredients, you may consult a pet nutritionist or veterinarian just to be sure. Many large breed dogs visit vet clinics due to unmonitored food intake. It only fits a week-old German Shepherd. You may need to mix dry and wet foods at a certain age for your pup, or maybe you want to incorporate raw foods in their adult diet just like many dog owners do. You just have to make sure you know how to do it correctly, and you provide the most nutritious dry dog food or wet food. You should give enough time for your dog to adjust to a new food gradually. Like other shepherd breeds, you should allow a 7-day transition period from feeding German Shepherds their old food to their new diet. If there is discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea, you may opt to slow down the process even more or consult your vet directly. Feeding an Overweight German Shepherd If you free-feed a German Shepherd, it may likely cause excessive weight gain or obesity. Furthermore, it can easily cause heavy or labored breathing during sleep and irregular movements, such as climbing stairs. Aside from dog food or canned food, a few more factors that can cause an overweight dog breed are table scraps, treats, and not enough exercise. There are a lot of alternatives for treats bought from pet stores, such as fruits and vegetables. These are easier to digest, lighter, and healthier. Eliminate table scraps and leftovers in their diet as they are unnecessary to these large breed puppies. Following a specific schedule with specific amounts of puppy food can significantly help lose weight. Implementing control in their daily meals can help reduce unnecessary food consumption. It is essential to understand that having an overweight dog is more likely caused by the lifestyle owners expose their dogs to. Also, inform family members about the diet plan, so your German Shepherd will not be too spoiled with food. There are a lot of factors why your GSD is not eating. It could be triggered by illness, dental problems , and environmental stress. But it can also be because of adverse reactions to medicines, sudden changes in food, increased body temperature, or your dog just being a picky eater. Do German Shepherds Eat a Lot? As a large breed dog, you can expect a German Shepherd to have a huge appetite. They are always eager to eat, may it be dry food, raw, or canned food. However, it is crucial to know when or how much to feed a German Shepherd to avoid weight problems and severe diseases. Can German Shepherds Eat Bones? German Shepherds can eat bones as it is a great source of minerals. However, there are cons to consider, too. According to AKC, if you want to consider giving them bones, there are certain rules you have to follow, such as giving them raw meat bones and throwing them out after three to four days. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Generally, German Shepherds can thrive and survive on a vegetarian diet, provided that they are supplied with enough nutrients, proteins, fats, and calories on a daily basis. Since German Shepherds are energetic dogs with huge appetites, we must put extra effort into planning out their diet. Options such as dry, wet, raw, and homemade diets are all great for them. Free feeding them or giving too many treats can lead to severe health problems. It is also essential to know what foods are healthy and should be avoided, as some foods are toxic. However, aside from research, we need to consult their vet to ensure that we provide them with essential nutrients for growth, good health, and development in all stages of their life, especially for giant German Shepherds , If you have other tips in feeding a German Shepherd, make sure to share them in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. E-mail Share by e-mail German Shepherds make great family dogs — they are loyal, intelligent, and have lots of energy! A good diet is key to giving your pet a long and healthy life, and the wrong diet can lead to a number of health problems. German Shepherds are big dogs with active lifestyles, so making sure they get the right nutrition at different stages throughout their lives is essential. Feeding your German Shepherd Puppy Puppies are growing rapidly and have very specific nutritional requirements. Puppy food tends to be high in calories and protein as they are bundles of energy at this age! Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a good quality balanced diet is essential to ensure that they grow up to be healthy adults. There are some foods designed specifically for large breeds such as German Shepherds, which provide extra support for their growing joints. You should look out for these foods in the pet store and ideally choose one of these large breed diets. You can find further general puppy feeding guidelines and advice via the AKC as well as specific German Shepherd facts and info. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? Puppies need to be fed more frequently than adult dogs to support their rapidly growing bodies. German Shepherd puppies should be fed 4 meals a day until they are 3 months old, then reduce to 3 meals a day until they are 10 months old when their growth rate starts to slow down. Once they reach this age, they need 2 meals a day. When should I start feeding adult food? Puppies must stay on puppy food until they reach adult size. German Shepherds are large dogs and tend to reach adult size later than smaller dogs. They are usually fully matured at months. German Shepherds should stay on puppy food until they are months old, then they should move on to an adult diet. Feeding your adult German Shepherd An adult German Shepherd will weigh around lbs and need at least an hour of exercise every day, so their diet needs to reflect this. It might seem like your dog is eating a lot, but they need to replace the energy they burn off and eat enough of the right nutrients to sustain them! How often should I feed my German Shepherd? Adult dogs should be fed two meals a day. When should I switch from adult to senior food? As dogs get older their nutritional requirements change again. They are less active, and German Shepherds are more prone to joint problems such as osteoarthritis. You should consider switching to a senior diet at around 8 years of age. What type of food should German Shepherds eat? Whichever diet you pick, you should ensure it is suitable for large dogs or working breeds and that it has plenty of protein and calcium, and also includes some type of doggy superfoods, too. Commercially prepared foods are the best way to ensure your dog gets a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and they come in wet or dried forms. Some dogs prefer one or the other, whilst some enjoy a variety and mix of both. Dry Food Dried food is cheap, easy to feed and store, and has lots of benefits for your dogs. Dogs fed a dried food diet will drink more water, and you can soak the kibble to add a bit extra if you like. Wet Food Wet foods contain more water than dried, and often resemble meat which some dogs love. The food is usually in chunks with jelly or gravy, and some dogs prefer it to dried. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are large and active dogs with demanding nutritional requirements throughout their lives. They go through a rapid growth stage as puppies, and as adults need the right balance of nutrients to replenish the energy they burn off exercising. They need to eat a diet that has the right balance of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, and ensure they get the right number of meals a day to maintain good physical and mental health. Puppies should eat meals a day until they are around 10 months old then they should eat 2 meals a day as adults. Do German shepherds require a lot of food? German Shepherds are large dogs so naturally, eat larger portions than smaller breeds. They are active dogs and need lots of protein and energy to keep them healthy. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

The protein will come from readily available sources such as chicken or beef, and not exotic or boutique sources like kangaroo or venison as you saw in second study mentioned above. According to the AKC , quality, regulated animal byproducts can be good for your dog. These byproducts can include organ meats or entrails, which often contain more nutrients than, say, plain chicken breast. Another misconception is that dogs should eat grain-free diets. As you saw in the second study mentioned above, that can actually be very harmful for your dog and cause DCM. But food labels can be a little vague and confusing, so below is an explanation of what some of these terms mean, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual and the AKC. There is one caveat though. For instance, flaked corn, ground corn, and kibbled corn could be sprinkled in an ingredient list and not be listed as the first few ingredients, but in reality, if you were to add them all up they are all corn, after all , you might find that this food is made mostly of corn. The same goes for chicken, chicken meal, and chicken byproduct. Meat vs. Meat Meal vs. The quality of these ingredients can vary widely, so be sure to talk to your vet about this and choose a reputable brand of food. Below are a few examples: Obesity. Golden Retrievers love food and they do have a tendency to become overweight if you let them. This problem can often affect these next two problems… Joint issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to joint issues and growing too fast because they eat too much can often make this problem worse more on this in the next section. Heart issues. Skin issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to hot spots and excess protein in their diets can be a factor that causes them. Many goldens suffer from food allergies. One cup of Brand X food may have calories per cup, while Brand Y has calories per cup. During a vet visit our veterinarian said he looked too small and lethargic for a puppy his age about 8 weeks at the time , and he recommended we feed him a little more. As far as how often to feed your puppy, this same rule applies. For us, we fed Oliver three times per day until he was a little over a year old. Getting a Golden Retriever Puppy? Get the gameplan for raising them right with the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Those two statements may sound random, but they are related. According to the Banfield Pet Hospital , overfeeding your Golden Retriever can cause them to grow too fast and increase their risk of hip dysplasia. You probably noticed that a raw diet was the fourth-most popular diet Golden Retriever owners feed their dog. Since puppies are growing and adults are just maintaining their weight, they have different dietary needs. And for fats, puppy food should have at least 8. As far as when to switch from puppy food to adult food, talk to your veterinarian. To see a list of other milestones your puppy will hit like when they lose their first teeth, or when their coat is fully grown check out this timeline of Golden Retriever puppy milestones. Like most of the other questions in this post, this is something to talk to your veterinarian about. Many foods will have the same vitamins that pills have already in them, but on the other hand, some breeders require that you give your puppy vitamins for their health guarantee to be valid. First, we unknowingly started him off on one of the brands listed in the graph above that is correlated with DCM. Then we switched to another brand that he just sort of liked. If we were to have another puppy, we would definitely start with the Royal Canin Golden Retriever Puppy food. How To Switch Food Brands The other day I was talking to someone who was complaining that her puppy was having lots of stomach issues. Dogs have sensitive stomachs so if you want to switch foods, you need to do it slowly. You should take about a week to transition from the old food to the new brand. Also consider how long the brand of food has been around, whether or not there have been any recalls of that brand, and if there is any research behind it. What do you feed your Golden Retriever puppy? Have any questions about what to feed them? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Feeding Your Golden Feeding Your Golden With the wide array of foods available today, it can be hard to make a good choice of what to feed your golden. Goldens are particularly sensitive to dietary concerns, and feeding them a high quality diet can help boost their health and immune system. Feeding a high quality food is not necessarily more expensive. Price is misleading: cheaper foods require more volume to be fed, up to several cups at each meal. With the wide array of better foods available today, you can make a smart choice of what to feed your golden. A golden will normally eat about two cups of premium food per day. It can be adjusted a little more or less based on activity level and metabolism. Goldens are prone to skin problems, and a poor quality diet will cause skin problems which translates into costly veterinarian bills. You will need to go to the pet store to purchase your food. Grocery store brands do not offer the nutrition goldens need for good health. Do not be persuaded by fancy advertising. Many commonly hyped foods are not high quality and maybe lacking the necessary nutritional value for your dog. For example, Grain Free foods may play a major part in taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers and other large breed dogs. This deficiency can cause serious heart problems for your dog see Taurine and Grain Free information on this web page. Here are some guidelines: Look for food free of chemical preservatives. Some of these additives are suspected of causing cancer. Look for food preserved with Tocopherols Vitamins C and E as well as rosemary and other herbs. Make sure you have several months before this date. Frequent stores where there is a good turnover of food so you get a fresh bag. Always store dog food in a tight airtight container in a cool, dry place. If you only have one dog, consider buying pound bags instead of pounds bags so the food is fresher. Look for a food that has some form of meat as the first ingredient — such as lamb, chicken, or turkey. Avoid foods that have grain as the first ingredient. Also look for multiple meat proteins in the first seven ingredients. Protein from multiple sources is generally viewed as being beneficial such as lamb, chicken and fish , unless your dog is allergic to certain proteins. Dog food companies sometimes list several types of grains in the first seven ingredients. Beware of this — your dog needs animal protein in his diet! These are the intestines of the animal including what is in the intestines!! Most by-products are not desirable. By-products normally contain beaks, feet, feathers, heads and other slaughterhouse wastes — not the most nutritious part of the animal. Avoid foods that have sugars or artificial colors or flavors or a lot of added salt. Semi-moist dog foods are the worst — they usually are loaded with artificial colors and sugars. Added vitamins and minerals are beneficial only when applied after the baking process, because heat destroys vitamins. The best foods are made up of ingredients that would be suitable for human consumption. Most dog foods contain meat products that are not fit for human consumption. They can include meat from diseased livestock, condemned material from slaughterhouses such as tumors cut away from meat , and as horrible as it sounds, some pet foods include euthanized pets sold to rendering plants and even road kill. Is it any wonder why so many dogs die from cancer when they are being fed meat from these sources? Grains — many dog foods will contain some grains, for example, brown rice, barley, corn, wheat, etc. We have found that some goldens in our rescue program generally do poorly on a food that contains corn or soy. Many goldens are allergic to corn or wheat. So if your golden starts getting a lot of hot spots or skin problems — check his food. There is a big difference in quality of grain products. Look for whole rice or brown rice in the ingredients; white rice and ground brewers rice are much lower in nutrients than whole or brown rice. Often pet food companies take the sweepings off the mill floor and put it in pet food. Look for whole grains instead such as oatmeal, brown rice, barley, or whole oats. Grain Free foods. Grain Free foods have become increasingly available as food companies try to offer foods that are easier to digest with lower levels of complex carbohydrates and grains. One misconception is that grain free dog food is also low-carb, however, vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, green peas and tapioca often replace the grains in grain-free dog foods, especially in kibble foods, making them as high or higher in carbohydrates than grain-based dog foods. Studies have shown peas, beans, pea starch, legumes, potatoes and sweet potatoes that have replaced the grains in dog foods block the function of taurine. Taurine, a sulfuric acid, is essential for healthy cardiovascular function in Golden Retrievers. If left untreated, taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers can cause dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , congestive heart failure and possibly death. Read all the ingredients in the food which should include taurine and check with your veterinarian before selecting or feeding any grain free food to your dog. Detailed information on dog food ingredients and taurine can be found on this web page under Taurine and Grain Free information and at: Diet Associated Heart Disease Treats — beware of many dog treats out there. They are filled with sugars, preservatives and artificial colors. Try buying biscuits at your local dog bakery or making some yourself. The dog food companies listed below have high quality treats available for your dog. Is your dog overweight? Beware of some diet dog foods, they can be loaded with fillers that provide no added nutrition. At least green beans are healthy. You can also use canned pumpkin. Typically goldens love it! DO NOT free feed your golden; instead feed a measured amount of food twice a day. Most adult goldens will eat 1 cup of premium dog food twice a day. Is your dog too fat? You should be able to feel its ribs and your dog should have a waist. We have found that we have a different view of what constitutes a fat dog than many veterinarians. They will typically allow dogs to carry more weight than is optimal. This perhaps is because they do not want to insult their clients and risk losing business. Letting your golden get too fat is like chopping years off of its life. We also see lots of hip problems with goldens, and keeping weight in check will give your dog better mobility. Fat goldens are an epidemic from our experience. We routinely get goldens into our rescue program that have to lose 30 — 40 pounds!!! Therefore we have a lot of experience at taking the weight off! It is very discouraging and upsetting when an adoptive home will let some weight creep back on. You may think you are loving your dog by giving it too much to eat, but if you really love it you will keep it at a normal weight. Remember — Ribs and Waists! Can you feel and see them on your dog? If not, break open the cans of green beans! The bottom line is read the ingredients, consult your veterinarian and research reliable resources. Making sure your dog has the best nutritional food will help to insure he has a long and healthy life. Here, from Whole Dog Journal, are some additional links for selecting best dry dog food and the best canned dog reviews. Goldens Rescued Since .Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months.

These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for almost forty years. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we deliver our world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily deliver our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around San Jose. For details, call Woody or Judi at .Labrador Retriever Puppies and Children In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Dogs are better than popping pills or drinking elixers. Children with dogs for pets have been found to have lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and fewer overall physical complaints than those without dogs. In fact, there are several diseases where dogs have been used to help those who have the disease. Two of these are: rheumatoid arthritis and emotional disturbance stemming from cases of severe abuse. Samuel B. Be sure to read the rest of her article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! We have answers. Labrador Retriever puppies vary in price, depending on many factors such as breeder experience, coat color, parent pedigree, and more. Puppies fly in the cabin and not down with the luggage , meaning your dream Labrador Retriever is just a quick flight away—even if there are no American Labrador Retriever in San Jose CA. How do you screen San Jose Labrador Retriever breeders? We get dozens of applications every day from businesses and San Jose Labrador Retriever breeders who wish to join our network. Have a look at our Breeder Pledge for more info! The internet makes it easy for anyone to sell their puppies online. What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are like factories and prisons, where dishonest breeders churn out hundreds of sick, poorly raised puppies to sell for cheap. Puppy mill dogs develop crippling health and behavioral problems easily, can cost you thousands in added vet bills, and tend to die far too young compared with properly bred animals. Looking for Labrador Retriever puppies near me? Begin our MatchMaker process below! What is the MatchMaker process? MatchMaker is how we help match great families with great puppies. How do I know I can trust you? We help you screen out the dishonest breeders using our strict vetting process and Breeder Pledge, only allowing the truly elite to join our network. Will you help us end puppy mills and inhumane backyard breeders?

Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. I'm Greg, a 2-year-old, pound Poodle mix. My aspiration is to be a shoe salesman one day, when I grow up. Imagine a whole store of shoes, with laces. What a dream! I love to be with people, so I couldn't imagine a better job.Maybe throw in a squeaky toy or two, and I would be SET. I'm still working on house manners through, so for now I probably need to stay away from the merchandise, or it might be left a little soggy, if you know what I mean. If you've seen my pictures, you might be wondering why I look like a middle-aged man going through an existential crisis. It seems like no one ever helped me brush my fabulous hair before, so we decided to cut it all off and start fresh. I can't wait for it to grow back and have a family who will help me care for it. I have been friendly with other dogs, and with the humans that I've met. Though I've not been around any kids, I would probably be okay with them. All dogs available for adoption are in foster homes. Please do not visit the location as it is a privately run boarding, training, and grooming facility. Meet and greets are scheduled by appointment only for approved adopters.

Q: We have a Labrador Retriever who is 10 months old. He has all his adult teeth, so he should no longer be teething. But he is incredibly destructive still — he chews up everything he can get hold of. What can we do? A: Among veterinarians, there's a saying about Labradors : "Chew till they're two; shed till they're dead. In the same way, what you're dealing with now is also normal for many dogs. Retrievers, especially, are known for their love of chewing throughout their adolescence, along with the lifelong fondness many of them have for carrying items in their mouths. Carrying things back — retrieving — is, after all, the job they were developed to do. To get a handle on the chewing, your family needs to limit your dog's ability to get to those items you don't want chewed. While doing that, offer your dog lots of chew toys to satisfy this healthy, natural behavior, and work on rewarding your dog for making the right choices when he chooses what to chew. You also need to make sure your dog is getting enough exercise — at least a half hour of heart-pumping activity every day to take the edge off his youthful exuberance. Your veterinarian can advise you on choosing healthy, safe chew toys, and there have never been more choices. One perennial favorite is the Kong , which can be stuffed with goodies such as peanut butter and broken dog biscuits to make it even more appealing. If you catch your dog chewing something he shouldn't, don't punish him. Really, the fault isn't his, but rather your family's for not supervising him better. Instead, transfer his attention to a favorite chew toy and then praise him for chewing on that. Expect that your dog's perfectly normal and healthy interest in chewing will continue for at least another year. Why Labradors Like To Chew On Everything You come home after a long day at work to your destroyed furniture and wonder why your Labrador keeps doing that. There are a few reasons why Labradors chew on the furniture. Teething All puppies go through the stage of losing their baby teeth and having their adult teeth come out. This is called the teething stage and it is followed by pain. You will catch your Lab puppy chewing stuff because it helps relieve its pain. The teething phase for Labradors ends around six months of age. It will usually last to around the second year of age. Separation Anxiety Labradors are social dogs and they need consistent love and attention. This is a behavioral problem that manifests with barking, chewing, urinating, defecating, whining, and restlessness. If it is left alone for a longer period of time, make sure you have someone to check up on your pup. Boredom Everyone has a different tolerance for boredom. Some can chill for long periods of time, while others need constant stimulation. Some dogs may be licking your legs as a way to relax and pass the time. Labradors are high-energy dogs and they need their regular physical and mental needs met. You will catch your Labrador puppies chewing on your furniture if they become bored. This is a way to spend all that energy and frustration they have built up throughout the day. Make sure it gets enough exercise to prevent this behavior. Fabric Sucking Some dogs display behavior of licking, sucking, and chewing certain fabrics. The current scientific belief is that this is a behavioral problem that happens in puppies that get weaned too early. This is before it reaches seven or eight weeks of age. If this behavior is happening for a long period of time it might become difficult to distract your dog from doing it. This means that it has become compulsive. There are many behavioral specialists that can help with this problem. Relaxation And Habits You will wonder why do Labs chew everything and you simply can not find the reason. Your Labrador might be chewing for fun. There might not be a specific reason why it does that besides the fact that it finds it relaxing. The problem will become more serious once your Lab develops a deeply ingrained habit to chew on the furniture every time it wants to relax. Habits can be quite difficult to change so you should do some serious training to prevent them from developing. Hunger Your Labrador might end up chewing on your furniture or other things if it gets too hungry. A calorie-restricted diet will lead to more hunger and frustration. This is why you should feed it a healthy low-carb diet full of protein. If you notice your dog chewing and swallowing stuff that is not food, it might have a health condition called pica. You should consult your vet as soon as possible to prevent any more problems. Usually, health problems are not a common reason for chewing but they are possible. Some diseases can make your Lab aggressive. These include painful diseases like arthritis, ear pain, and stomach pain. They can also be diseases like thyroid problems, or mental diseases like anxiety and depression. Consult your vet if you suspect that your Lab is suffering from some illness. Now, here is how to stop a Labrador puppy from chewing furniture. Supervise Carefully One way to get rid of this behavior is with careful supervision and training. This might take more time of your day but it is an effective strategy. Keep an eye on your dog when you are around it. To make things easier, get a leash on it so you always have it in your sight. Once you are set up, observe its behavior. Then replace that item with something it can chew like a toy. Give praises afterward. Use A Chewing Deterrent Another way to stop your puppy from destroying the furniture is to use a chewing deterrent. This usually comes as a spray bottle filled with some bad-tasting liquid. You can spray this liquid on any object you want to preserve so it will stop your Lab from chewing it. If this is the first time you use this, follow these steps. First, apply a small amount of deterrent to a piece of tissue. Once it realizes it tastes bad it will spit it out or retch. Hopefully, it will learn its lesson and connect the smell with the taste. Once it smells that scent on the furniture it will avoid chewing it because of the bad taste. Ensure Proper Exercise Do Labs chew a lot because they are bored and filled with energy? Yes, they do. Labrador Retrievers are high-energy dogs and they need proper physical and mental exercise. An adult Labrador needs around 1 hour of exercise every day. You can do daily walks, but you should also do some more demanding exercises. These include running, swimming, hiking, and playing games. You can also socialize your Lab with other dogs and let them play in the dog park. For mental stimulation, you should do regular training sessions or get some mentally stimulating toys for your Lab. Try Crate Training Another great way how to stop a Labrador puppy from chewing furniture is to use a dog crate. You first need to do some crate training so your Lab can get comfortable in its crate. Then, whenever you leave your home, or during the night, you can leave your Lab in the crate. Make sure that you leave some safe chew toys for your Lab inside the crate so it has something to do. Offer Other Things For Chewing We know at what age do Labs stop chewing everything, but you should also know to get them some chew toys. Chew toys may seem like a luxury, but they are essential for keeping your dog entertained and away from its destructive chewing habit. If your puppy is teething, get a rubber toy and freeze it. When it gets to chewing it will soothe its gums. One toy we like to recommend is the Kong chew toy. It is a rubber toy that is hollow on the inside and can be filled with food. You can also get other things like bully sticks, bully stick holders, rawhide bones, pig skin rolls, or other natural chews. When your dog chews on something valuable get its attention and try to exchange it with the chew toy. Once it gets the chew toy, give it some praise. Hide Your Valuables Do Labs grow out of chewing? But until then you need to make sure your valuables are safe. Another thing that is important to remove is the stuff that is dangerous to chew. This includes your dirty underwear and sanitary items like napkins and tampons. It might poison itself if it chews them. You should also remove the spoiled food if you have some lying around. Also, make sure you dispose of your trash appropriately. We talked about a few ways to prevent Lab puppy chewing. But never punish your Labrador for chewing. If you come home from work and see your furniture destroyed from chewing you might get upset. Dogs will only react to scolding if you do it right after it does something wrong. Another thing you might do with punishing your dog after it does something bad is to make the outcome worse. Some dogs crave attention even if it is negative. So it will do it again. This is why you should avoid punishing, and instead use positive reinforcement methods like the ones we already talked about. Labradors will stop chewing around the age of two years. However, there are many reasons why this behavior might continue. The most common reason for chewing in Lab puppies is teething. Luckily this process ends around six months of age. Other reasons include separation anxiety, boredom, hunger, illness, or just bad habits. Some fabrics can also cause your dog to chew on them compulsively. If you want to stop your Labrador from doing this behavior you should never punish it. Punishing will only lead to more destructive chewing and tension between you and your dog. Instead what you should do is properly train your dog. Remove your valuables from its sight, supervise your dog carefully, and get it some chew toys to replace the furniture. You can also use crate training and chewing deterrents to help you with this process. FAQ How to stop a Lab from chewing during teething? Labs need to chew on things during teething, but you should give them appropriate things to chew on, like chew toys. You can also give it ice cubes or frozen chew toys to chew on. They will numb the teething pain. Are Labradors good house dogs? Even though Labradors tend to chew until their second year, they are excellent family dogs. They are protective of their families but also very friendly. And they also love playing with kids. When do Labs stop chewing their beds? If your Labrador has an ingrained habit of chewing on its dog bed you should remove it for a while. Replace it with a firm mat and supervise it. With training, you will be able to stop it from chewing its bed and get back to normal. The first step is to make sure you have removed the causes of chewing. In many homes, everyone is out at work all day, and young dogs can get very bored when left alone for long periods. Try to give your dog a good long walk before you leave for work, and arrange for someone to come in and take him for another walk part way through the day. She is more likely to relax and sleep rather instead of dismantling your sofa cushions if she has had enough exercise. If your day is a very long one, consider sending him to doggy day care, where he will enjoy the company of other dogs while you are at work. Combining a dog with full time work can be challenging and you may need some extra help. Many of our regular posters understand the issues of separation anxiety very well. Preventing Separation Anxiety If your older dog has a separation anxiety issues, consider a consultation with a dog behaviorist. They will be able to assess your dog in his home environment and give you a plan to help. If you have a young puppy , you can help them to avoid developing separation anxiety. You can teach your puppy to cope with being alone for short periods of time from an early age. Check out my click for quiet article for more information on helping puppies that cry when you leave them. Make sure that puppies left alone for more than a minute or two have something appropriate to occupy them. Rescue dogs may need similar treatment, and you can introduce them to separation gradually when you first bring them home. Now, what about chewing for pleasure? This means redirecting his chewing activities onto sensible alternatives. Chewing For Pleasure Chewing for pleasure is one cause of chewing you cannot and should not try to remove or prevent in your dog. What we do with dogs that like to chew for pleasure, and that includes all puppies, is redirect their chewing onto something more appropriate than your favorite shoes. However, most people give their dogs chew toys and then wonder why he prefers to gnaw on the table legs. The fact is, most chew toys are rather boring. How do we keep playing and chewing interesting, and save your long-suffering furniture from harm? A few other toys and distractions can work well. For most Labradors, that means food! Dipping chew toys in savory spreads like yeast extract or peanut butter can help extend the pleasure time, but not for long. However, in my experience, even long-lasting chews can become boring after a while. The answer lies in the wonderful Kong toy. In fact what you need is not one, but several Kongs. Toys, like the Kong, that contain food but make the dog work to get at it, are a useful distraction that can also stop doggy boredom. Your job is to fill this hollow centre with something delicious and then, as the most important part, freeze it solid. When you leave your puppy or young dog alone or unsupervised for long — give him a frozen Kong first. This will keep him happy for quite some time. Choosing The Right Kong You can get Kongs in puppy sizes for little ones and in black extra strong rubber for really strong chewers. Kongs are not the cheapest toy, but they are an indispensable aid to preventing destructive chewing in the long term. This is especially important with dogs that have an existing chewing habit or suffer from boredom or anxiety. In a way, a Kong is an iPad for dogs! In young puppies, you want to prevent those habits developing in the first place. In both cases, this is a physical issue. When it comes to avoiding or breaking bad habits, you need to physically prevent the puppy from indulging in them. Some people struggle with this. They are hoping for a magic command or cue to give their dog that will prevent chewing in their absence. Dogs like the smell of feet and Labs love to carry shoes around, looking very pleased with themselves. One thing you can do is teach your Lab to bring your shoes to you and hand them over, rather than running off with them. We invested in a shoe rack for our front and back porches and taught everyone to leave their shoes there rather than in the hall or on their bedroom floors. If your bedrooms are upstairs you can insist the family puts their shoes in their rooms. You can then place a dog gate across the bottom of the stairs so your pooch has no access. This kind of strategy is especially important with puppies. Before we adopt our first dog, most of us are used to being able to put things down on the floor or low tables. They will still be there when we come back. If you leave the TV remote on the chair, your puppy will pick it up. You should remind the family to pick up stuff in rooms where puppies have free access. Now, what about furniture? One solution is to block access to that particular room except under supervision. Again, a dog gate or baby gate works well. If you have an open plan home, you can buy extended systems that can literally divide an entire room Another solution is to try some kind of spray on dog chewing deterrent Using A Stop Dog Chewing Spray You can buy spray on repellents that will deter some puppies and dogs from chewing. These are intended to deter dogs because of the odor. You can try spraying it on your table legs and see if it works. It is alcohol free and you can even spray it on your furniture and clothes. Make sure you buy a spray intended for furniture rather than for spraying on dogs that are nibbling themselves. They can be effective, but there are no guarantees. Think hard about providing your dog with more company or mental stimulation as well as breaking the chewing habit with barriers or sprays. Bear in mind that some puppies and dogs seem indifferent to the taste of the spray and will happily carry on chewing wood even when it you coat it liberally in unpleasant substances! I would swear that one of my dogs chewed things even more! Accordingly, in many cases, dog gates are the best option if a dog chews everything. Baby gates are fine. If you are interesting in finding out more about this then check out our puppies and baby gates article. If you are going to crate your puppy, you need to do so for very short periods of time and leave the enough puppy suitable chew toys to occupy his need to chew while you are gone. Crates are also really useful in vehicles and can save you from a lot of heart ache. One small dog can run up a very large bill when left alone in the interior of a car for a few minutes. Many years ago, my young Labrador ate through both the passenger and driver safety belts in our Landrover when we left him alone for less than twenty minutes. That was a very expensive lesson for us as a young hard-up couple. Using a crate in the vehicle is often a better solution, at least until your Labrador has got past the chewing stage. Check out our Travel Crates For Labradors section for detailed reviews. One problem that often crops up is puppies destroying their own bedding. What About Puppy Bedding? People often ask me what they can do about their puppy chewing up his own bed. This is a tricky one. None of us wants to see a puppy without a bed, but if your puppy is tearing lumps off his and swallowing them, you are going to need to remove it for a while. You can heave a sigh of relief and put away your gates and your bitter spray. If you are thinking about putting away your puppy crate, be aware that it is very tempting to de-crate big dogs too soon. This is because large dogs need large crates, and these crates are an unsightly nuisance in all but the biggest houses. Some will continue until they are around two years old. So, a little patience is required. Remember to be very generous with those frozen Kongs during the de-crating process, and for the next few months. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Habit Dogs that chew when they are bored We all have different boredom thresholds, dogs are no different. Some dogs are quite happy to do very little for hours on end, others, not so much. Labradors are intelligent, sociable dogs, and are particularly prone to boredom if left alone for long periods. One way of relieving boredom, if you are a dog, is to chew things up! Chewing as a means to relieve anxiety Ideally, all dogs need to learn to spend time alone from puppyhood onwards. A well adjusted adult dog is then happy to be left from time to time, and will simply sleep when you are gone. Dogs which are not taught to accept some periods of solitude in puppyhood, dogs which are left alone for far too long, or dogs that have had traumatic experiences when left alone may develop a disorder called separation anxiety. A dog which becomes very anxious when left, may resort to destroying your possessions, or even the fabric of your home, in order to relieve his anxiety. Which brings us to the point that the act of chewing is in itself, is very pleasurable and calming to many dogs. Dogs chewing for relaxation and pleasure There is no doubt that many dogs simply chew for fun. It relaxes them, and makes them feel happy. The problems arise, when that chewing activity is directed at the wrong items — your items! Relaxation chewing is particularly common in Labradors and other retrievers. This is probably partly because we have bred them to enjoy having things in their mouths. Unusual causes of dogs chewing Occasionally a dog will start chewing because he has some kind of medical problem. This is more likely to be the cause if the chewing starts quite suddenly in an older dog that has never had a chewing problem before. Is my dog hungry? Eating is a fairly transient affair for most Labradors in any case, so you can never hope to prevent chewing by giving your dog something to eat. Is chewing a habit? Like many other stress busting or pleasurable activities, chewing can become a deeply ingrained habit. Habits can be difficult to change and breaking a habit may involve physically preventing your dog from parts of your home. What about punishing dogs for chewing? There are a number of problems with punishment in general, but punishment for chewing is especially problematic. Many Labradors are quite attention seeking, they have been bred to work closely with their human partners and being together, is very important to them. Behind your back Most destructive chewing in older dogs goes on behind your back, or when you are out. Punishment can sometimes be a way to teach your dog not to chew things in front of you. It is however nigh on impossible to teach a dog not to chew things in your absence. Punishment only works, if it occurs during the bad behaviour. Effectively, all punishment does, is teach your dog to be more sneaky about chewing. Staying friends with your puppy Remember also, that punishing a puppy will not prevent him chewing — he needs to chew and chewing is completely normal and natural for him. What punishment will do, is make your puppy afraid of you. The first step is to make sure you have removed the causes of chewing that can be avoided. Preventing your dog being bored Labradors need plenty of exercise and some company. In many homes, everyone is out at work all day, and young dogs can get very bored when left alone for long periods. Try to give your dog a good long walk before you leave for work, and arrange for someone to come in and take him for another walk part way through the day. He is more likely to relax and sleep rather instead of dismantling your sofa cushions, if he has had enough exercise. If your day is a very long one, consider sending him to doggy day care where he will enjoy the company of other dogs while you are at work. Combining a dog with full time work can be challenging and you may need some extra help. They will be able to assess your dog in his home environment and give you a plan to help him. If you have a young puppy, you can avoid separation anxiety developing by teaching your puppy to cope with being alone for short periods of time from an early age. Check out my click for quiet article for more information on helping puppies that cry when you leave them. And keep separations very short to begin with. Make sure that puppies left alone for more than a minute or two, have something appropriate to occupy them. Rescue dogs may need to be treated in a similar way, and introduced to separation gradually, when you first bring them home. Chewing for pleasure Of course there is one cause of chewing you cannot and should not try to remove, or prevent in your dog, and that is chewing for pleasure. What we do instead with dogs that like to chew for pleasure, and that includes all puppies, is redirect their chewing onto something more appropriate than your favourite shoes 2. This means redirecting his chewing activities onto sensible alternatives. Most people give their dogs chew toys. And wonder why he prefers to gnaw on the table legs. The fact is, most chew toys are rather boring. The ideal chew toy To really make chew toys appealing you usually need to add something interesting. And for most Labradors, that means food. Dipping chew toys in savoury spreads like marmite or peanut butter can help extend the pleasure time, but not for long. The answer lies in the wonderful Kong toy. In fact what you need is not one, but several Kongs. Why Kongs help stop Labradors chewing your things The kong is a hollow, tough, rubber toy that most dogs cannot destroy. The Kong Extreme is especially sturdy and great for very aggressive chewers. Your job is to fill this hollow centre with something delicious and then this is the important part freeze it solid. When you leave your puppy or young dog alone or unsupervised for long — give him a frozen Kong first. This will keep him happy for quite some time. Choosing the right kong You can get Kongs in puppy sizes for little ones, and in extra strong rubber black for really strong chewers. The red ones are suitable for most adult Labs. Kongs are not the cheapest toy, but they are an indispensable aid to the long term prevention of destructive chewing. This is especially important with dogs that have an existing chewing habit, or suffer from boredom or anxiety. What next? Avoid or break bad habits The final step in the plan is to break any existing bad chewing habits, and in young puppies, to prevent those habits developing. In both cases this is a physical issue. When it comes to avoiding or breaking bad habits, it means physically preventing the puppy from being able to indulge in them. Some people struggle with this. They are hoping for a command or cue to give their dog, that will prevent chewing in their absence. Putting things away Before we have our first dog, we are all used to being able to put things down on the floor or low tables, and for them to still be there when we come back. If you leave the TV remote on the chair, your puppy will pick it up. The best way is to prevent your puppy having access to rooms with important items in them, and to teach yourself and your kids to pick up your stuff in rooms where puppies have free access. Repellent sprays You can buy spray on repellents that will put some puppies off chewing. You can try spraying it on your table legs and so on. Bitter apple spray is a popular one , and it does work, for some dogs. Sadly not for all. Some puppies and young dogs seem indifferent to the taste and will happily carry on chewing your furniture or baseboards, even when liberally coated in unpleasant substances! A more effective solution, and one that is particularly suitable for puppies that are not yet fully house trained, is physical exclusion. Upstairs for example.