labradoodle puppy rescue

Below are some of the frequently asked questions by Poodle lovers! What is the recommended amount of food for a Poodle? It depends on how active your Poodle is. A very busy poodle will require more food than a sedentary poodle. For example, puppies need more calories than adult dogs, and elderly dogs need fewer calories than adult dogs. The best way to determine how much food your dog needs is to feed them a diet based on their age, weight, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions about how much food to feed your Poodle. Can my Poodle be fed dry dog food kibble instead of wet food? There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people believe that dry food is better for dogs because it helps keep their teeth clean, while others believe that wet food is better because it contains more nutrients. Ultimately, the best diet for your Poodle will depend on his individual needs and preferences. There are pros and cons to both dry dog food kibble and wet dog food. Ultimately, the best food for your Poodle depends on his specific dietary needs and preferences. It can also be easier to portion control because the kibble can be weighed or measured. Wet dog food is usually more nutritious than dry dog food since it contains more fresh ingredients, and it can be a good choice if your Poodle has difficulty chewing or swallowing. Can poodle puppies eat dry dog food? Yes, dry dog food is safe for poodle puppies. As long as the food is specifically meant for puppies, it will provide them with all the necessary nutrients to grow and develop properly. Make sure to choose a food high in protein and low in carbohydrates, as puppies are naturally carnivores and need more protein than adult dogs. The majority of puppies have little trouble chewing dry dog food. However, you can soften the kibble by adding a little water or wetting it if they do. Until then, continue providing whatever diet is appropriate for his age and weight. If my Poodle has difficulty chewing, what should I do? You can do a few things if your Poodle seems to have trouble chewing. One option is to feed your dog softer foods, like canned food or boiled chicken. You can also purchase a special diet for dogs with dental problems. Finally, you can ask your veterinarian about giving your dog prescription toothpaste or chew toys designed to help clean their teeth. Can my Poodle eat grains? Grains are a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fiber, but they also contain gluten which can be hard for some dogs to digest. In addition, dogs that are allergic to grains will often have skin problems, digestive issues, and excessive shedding. Can I feed leftovers to my Poodle? Leftovers can make a nutritious meal for your Poodle if they are not too fatty or high in salt. Be sure to avoid giving them any toxic food to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, or onions. You can also give them cooked meat, rice, and vegetables. A balanced diet is essential for keeping your Poodle healthy and happy. Feeding your poodle leftovers can also be unhealthy, as they may not be getting the balanced diet they need. Instead, try to give your Poodle specifically-made dog food tailored to their nutritional needs. This will help keep them healthy and prevent any weight problems from developing. Do I have any options if my Poodle is a fussy eater? You can do a few things to get your Poodle to eat. One is to try different types of food. Sometimes, all it takes is a change in diet to get a dog to start eating again. You can also try mixing wet and dry food or warming up the food slightly before serving it. If your Poodle is particularly fussy, you may have to resort to hand-feeding her small meals several times a day until she starts eating on her own again. What foods are toxic to poodles? Yes, there are a few foods that are toxic to poodles. Chocolate, raisins, garlic, and the artificial sweetener xylitol pose a threat to poodles. Cavities and gum disease are common problems in dogs, and they can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for your pet. The vet will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend treatment. In many cases, cavities can be treated with antibiotics or surgery, and gum disease can be treated with a special diet or surgery. Your Poodle may be having trouble chewing because its teeth are not clean. You might also want to try giving your poodle rawhide bones or chew toys to help keep its teeth healthy and clean. What other foods should poodles never eat? Yes, there are other foods that poodles should never eat. Other dangerous foods for poodles include grapes, raisins, chocolate, and onions. Why not give my Poodle those treats that look like bacon, hot dogs, and pork chops? Poodles are prone to obesity, and these treats are high in fat and calories. Stick to crunchy treats that are low in fat and calories instead. My dog eats the grass in my yard and other plants. How can I prevent this? However, this has yet to be proven. Is fiber necessary for poodles? Yes, poodles need fiber. A high-fiber diet will help keep their bowels regular and help minimize the risk of constipation. Is a low-fat diet for my Poodle appropriate? Dogs have higher fat, and dietary requirements than humans and do not often suffer from the same obesity-related health issues that humans do. A low-fat diet would be dangerous for your Poodle and could lead to deficiencies in essential fatty acids. Feed your dog a balanced diet appropriate for their breed and age, and make sure they get plenty of exercise. Could I feed my Poodle raw foods? There are pros and cons to a raw foods diet for your Poodle. On the one hand, a raw foods diet can be healthier for your dog because it is more natural and closer to what they eat in the wild. However, on the other hand, it can be more expensive and time-consuming to prepare than a traditional kibble diet. If you consider switching your dog to a raw foods diet, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist to ensure that your pup is getting all of the nutrients they need. A raw foods diet should always include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and high-quality protein sources like meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. Is frozen raw food a good option for poodles? Yes, I do recommend frozen raw foods for poodles. I recommend all dogs eat a diet of at least some frozen raw food. Frozen raw food is the healthiest type of diet you can feed your dog. It contains all the nutrients and enzymes your dog needs to stay healthy and strong. Plus, feeding your dog frozen raw food can help protect them against many common health problems, including allergies, skin problems, weight gain, diabetes, and cancer. Is it okay to feed eggs to my Poodle? How about eggshells? You can feed eggs to your Poodle, but you should take care not to give them too many eggshells. Eggshells are a great source of calcium, but if your dog eats too many, they could end up with an eggshell calcium overdose. A safe dose for a healthy poodle is about 5 grams of eggshells per day. Poodles, do they need supplements? Yes, Poodles do need supplements, and there are a few are particularly beneficial for joint and bone growth. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are two of the most popular supplements for joint health, and they can help reduce inflammation and improve joint function. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for joint health, as they can help reduce stiffness and pain. Vitamin D is another important supplement for Poodles, as it helps to maintain bone health and prevent osteoporosis. What man-made food can Poodles eat? Raw and cooked carrots are safe for your dog, as are cooked eggs, salmon, and blueberries. However, be sure to avoid grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and anything else that might be harmful to your pup. Conclusion — Final Verdict! Now that you know a little more about the best dog food for Poodles, we hope you feel confident in your ability to choose the right food for your pup. We wish you and your pup all the best in finding the perfect diet! Related Links. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from Poodle owners like you. What should I feed a picky Poodle? What should I not feed my Poodle? Human food! You should also avoid toxic foods for dogs like chocolate, garlic, onions, etc. Do Poodle need a special diet? Small-breed dog food is sometimes recommended by vets, but most small breeds can eat regular dog food without an issue. What is the best homemade food for Poodles? Soft dog foods that require little chewing are the best options for Poodles with no teeth. Should I put my Poodle on a diet plan? Unless your Poodle is overweight, suffering from a specific health condition, or has allergies, they should not be put on a diet. Your vet will be able to tell you if your dog requires a new diet, less or more food, or prescription dog food. If your dog needs to lose weight, here are some tips you can try. Sticking with Blue Buffalo, we think that their canned puppy food is a contender for the best dog food for Poodle puppies. What should I look for in a dog food for my Poodle? Look for a dog food that is high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and contains essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Avoid dog foods with artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Should I choose wet or dry food for my Poodle? Both wet and dry food can be suitable for Poodles. However, dry food may be better for dental health as it can help scrape off plaque and tartar. Can I feed my Poodle a homemade diet? Yes, you can feed your Poodle a homemade diet, here are some vet-approved recipes. While dog food specifically formulated for Poodles may be beneficial, it is not necessary. What is the best dog food for a Poodle with sensitive stomachs? Look for a dog food that is made with easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or lamb. Avoid dog foods that contain artificial ingredients or fillers. Can Poodles eat grain-free dog food? Yes, Poodles can eat grain-free dog food, but it is important to make sure that the food still contains essential nutrients and is not lacking in any areas. How much should I feed my Poodle? The amount of food your Poodle needs depends on their size, age, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of food for your Poodle. Should I choose a dog food that is high in fat? No, it is important to choose a dog food that is balanced and does not contain excessive amounts of fat. Too much fat can lead to obesity and other health problems. Is it necessary to feed my Poodle a dog food with added supplements? Can I feed my Poodle a vegetarian diet? Poodles require meat-based protein in their diet and typically cannot thrive on a vegetarian diet unless carefully prepared. Here are some vegetarian and vegan recipes and store-bought foods. Should I avoid dog foods that contain by-products? While by-products are often viewed negatively, they can provide essential nutrients for dogs but not when cooked in with kibble. By-products, such as chicken liver are healthy for dogs. Consistency is important for their digestive health. What is the best dog food for a senior Poodle? Look for a dog food that is lower in calories and fat, higher in protein, and contains joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Can I feed my Poodle a raw diet? Yes, a raw diet is a great choice. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Updated March 4, This post contains affiliate links and we will be compensated if you buy after clicking on our links. Poodle puppies are lively and rambunctious creatures who are ready for anything. The breed has a long history that dates back several centuries. While many people know them for strutting their stuff at a dog show or performing tricks at a circus, most Poodles end up being a lovable member of the family. Good nutrition is crucial for proper development. In a hurry? The first is their size classification. There are three main Poodle varieties. These include Toy, Mini, and Standard. Toy Poodles are the smallest of the bunch, maxing out at about nine pounds as an adult. Standard Poodles, on the other hand, can get quite large. They can weigh as much as 70 pounds. However, most stay around the neighborhood of 60 pounds. All dogs start out small. They experience a significant growth spurt during the puppy stage. Before you know it, your young dog will be approaching their adult size. You need to have a good idea of how big your dog will get to supply them with the right amount of food. With a protein content of 31 percent, your puppy will receive all the amino acids they need to grow strong muscles. To support their changing digestive system, plenty of probiotics are added as well. Buy on Chewy 2. Most of it comes from deboned chicken and chicken meal. The dry food also has plenty of healthy fat to support their growing coat and brain. Healthy doses of calcium and phosphorous are included. These ingredients support bone growth and may be able to help your puppy avoid joint and skeletal issues in the future. Buy on Chewy 3. Chicken, lamb, and salmon all contribute to the high protein content. Because so many animal meat sources are used, your puppy can get a complex profile of amino acids to support their muscles. The kibble is also chock-full of fruits and vegetables. Ingredients like apples, spinach, and blueberries give your puppy a dose of vitamins. This particular formula is ideal for Standard Poodles. Buy on Chewy 4. It supports ocular health, improves their digestive system, strengthens their immune system, and provides plenty of energy. It does this with high-quality ingredients. Chicken and turkey are the main protein sources. Buy on Chewy 5. Chicken meal, turkey meal, and lamb meal are the most prevalent ingredients in the recipe. They make up the 24 percent protein content. The food also has a number of beneficial nutrients. Buy on Chewy nutritional requirements While the Poodle size classifications are vastly different, their nutritional requirements remain the same. The only thing that will be different is the amount of food you provide. During the first year, your dog is developing muscles, strong bones, and healthy organs. Poodle puppies are quite active. This constant activity eats up a lot of energy. Not only that, but their bodies are changing. On average, Poodle puppies will need about 55 calories per pound of body weight. More active puppies may need upwards of 60 calories. On the other side of the spectrum, lazier pups will need about .You can use this general guideline to figure out how much food your puppy will need at various stages of development. If not, you may have to soften the kibble a bit to get them to eat or start with wet food. Compared to their birth weight, Poodles will be surprisingly large for only being a few months of age. Toy Poodles The average weight of a Toy Poodle at three months is about two and a half pounds. Miniature Poodles Miniature Poodles typically weigh about five pounds at this age and need approximately calories to stay healthy. Standard Poodles Standard Poodles are well on their weight to reaching adulthood at three months. They should already weight about 20 pounds. This equates to over 1, calories every day. You should continue to monitor their growth and adjust their diets as needed. Toy Poodles Toy Poodles almost double their weight by this age. They typically weigh in at just under five pounds, thus requiring about calories. Miniature Poodles By six months old, most Miniature Poodles tip the scales at about 9 pounds. Standard Poodles At around 35 to 39 pounds, Standard Poodles will do well with just over 2, calories of food. One Year of Age Take out the birthday candles and some dog-friendly cake! This is a great time to look back on your previous weigh-ins to see how much your puppy has changed. Your Poodle should be close to their target adult weight. They will continue to grow a bit longer, especially Standard Poodles. However, the changes will be a bit more difficult to see. Toy Poodles While it may not seem like much growth, Toy Poodles have come a long way since birth. Your tiny canine companion should weigh in at about six pounds and require about calories of food each day. Miniature Poodles Miniature Poodles have an average weight of about 13 pounds when they are one year old. As a result, you should be feeding them just under calories. Standard Poodles At a year old, your Standard Poodle is probably too big to be a lapdog anymore. Most puppies weigh about 50 pounds. They will need between 2, and 2, calories each day. Young Poodles need to eat many times throughout the day. When their suckling off their mothers, puppies typically free feed. Your dog will have the urge to eat a lot as a result. From there, you need to slowly decrease their meal frequency. When you hit the six-month mark, go down to three meals. At one year old, you should try to work your way down to two meals. Your puppy may not like this very much. If they seem to have a problem with hunger throughout the day, you can continue to feed them three meals for another few months. The time to switch your puppy to adult food will depend on a couple of factors. Some dogs take a bit longer to reach their adult weight than others. They need continued support as they make that last push to adulthood. Switching too early can do more harm than good. This is because they are considered adults at about one year old. The other two classifications continue to grow, albeit slowly, until about a year and a half. Their digestive system is still quite sensitive to changes. You can ease the transition by introducing small amounts of adult food to their puppy formula. Dry food and wet food both have their advantages. Starting off with canned food gives your puppy the opportunity to develop stronger muscles before they move onto something tough. It should be noted that wet food is usually less dense than kibble. To avoid weight gain, you should move onto dry kibble when your puppy is about six months old. Here are some great recipes for young Poodle pups. The food comes in a mash form. It can also be mixed in with dry food for an additional kick of flavor. It comes in a convenient tray for mess-free eating. The recipe is comprised of great ingredients like beef and liver. There are also visible vegetables. Over to You Creating an effective diet plan for a growing Poodle puppy is a lot different than doing so for an adult. They need all the fuel they can get. With a bit of extra knowledge and planning, you can provide your dog with a great diet that helps them grow up to a healthy adult. Life Stage The first thing you need to consider is what stage of life your Poodle is in. We have quite a few choices on our list that should work well, whichever life stage your Poodle is in at the moment. You want a blend that has essential vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and more to ensure your pooch has everything they need in the nutrition department for a healthy, happy life. For years, it was thought that any dog food that was grain-free should be good for your pooch, now it might not be. The FDA warns that it is possible that grain-free foods can lead to cardiomyopathy in pets , Poodles included. These are a few of the things that you need to consider when choosing the right food for your standard Poodle. Final Thoughts This concludes our reviews of the eight best dog foods for standard Poodles. Human-grade ingredients including USDA turkey delivered straight to your door: what more could you want? Featured Image Credit: everydoghasastory, Shutterstock Written by Patricia Dickson Author Patricia is an experienced pet writer and lifelong animal lover. Mystery and Link have been with her since birth. Binx was found under her house as a kitten and promptly welcomed into the family. Patricia enjoys volunteering at her local rescue shelter and sharing her extensive knowledge of pets.

Golden Retrievers: 0. First, you might choose to bring home two puppies at once, usually littermates. Or, you might opt to get one Golden Retriever and then later on add a puppy or another adult Golden. Perhaps the idea of separating your puppy from their family makes you sad and you think that bringing home two will make it easier for them. Maybe the breeder suggested that you take two puppies. Or you think the idea of having two puppies at once seems like double the cuteness and fun, and that you can just get the puppy stage done with both dogs all at once. Are any of these ideas true? What is Littermate Syndrome? Littermate syndrome is when two puppies from the same litter , or two puppies from different litters but similar ages, are raised together and develop problematic behavior issues. There are several main categories of undesirable behavior that are associated with littermate syndrome: aggression, separation distress, fear of novelty, and lack of human-dog bond. Aggression In some cases, you might see that two Golden Retrievers display aggressive behavior towards each other, or toward others, both dog and human. Often the aggression arises around the time of adolescence or social maturity 6 months to 18 months. The two dogs might start having more conflict, whereas before they got along without issue. One dog might start becoming a bully towards the other. Perhaps intense conflicts break out over toys or bones. Maybe fights come out of nowhere without any apparent provocation. This can be extremely distressing to witness as an owner, and obviously frightening for the recipient. Two dogs snarling, barking and lunging at another dog or a person is probably not what you signed up for when you brought home a pair of fluffy Golden puppies. Separation Distress Another common result of littermate syndrome is intense separation distress. This can start much earlier than the aggression discussed above, and even puppies three months or four months old can show distress when separated from their littermate. Puppies or dogs might start screaming or thrashing around if separated even a short time or distance. You can imagine how hard this can make life for both you and the dogs. If one dog needs to go to the vet or have surgery, the other dog will be panicked. Crating or otherwise confining them separately might be impossible. Even trying to train them separately could be met with extreme anxiety from your pair of pups. Fear of Novelty This one sounds a little odd, but another way littermate syndrome can manifest is through the dogs showing fear of novelty, also known as neophobia. This can start when the littermates are young, and can worsen as they get older. They might show strong fear of new people or dogs, as well as new locations, environments or objects. Lack of Human-Dog Bond Because the two littermates spend so much time together, they may bond more closely with each other than with their human family. This hyper-attachment with each other can result in two dogs that care way more about each other than you, or what you have to say. Getting their attention might be a real struggle. They might blow you off when you call in favor of continuing to wrestle and play. Littermates may be so preoccupied with each other that they never really develop a social bond with you or your family. Your two Golden Retrievers may struggle to learn house rules and boundaries, and it can be harder for them to understand how to regulate themselves emotionally. Training can also be a challenge, as mentally, they are more focused on their sibling. Ask any experienced dog trainer, behavior consultant, or veterinary behaviorist, and they will tell you that littermate syndrome can happen when someone brings two pups home. And despite this breed being notoriously social, sweet and bonded with their humans, it can happen with Golden Retrievers. Bringing home two puppies does not necessarily mean they are doomed to experience littermate syndrome, but it is absolutely something to be mindful of and to proactively avoid it from happening. Want to potty train your Golden Retriever puppy fast? Click here to get the Potty Training Cheat Sheet! What Causes Littermate Syndrome? Again, there have not been formal studies, but there are some likely factors to which littermate syndrome can be attributed. You might know two people that have an unhealthy attachment, maybe romantic partners, a parent and child, or friends. The relationship impedes normal social, emotional, and mental development, and has a negative impact in other areas of their life. This is exactly what can happen with canine littermates too. They are missing out on some critical development due to this hyper-attachment. Behavior like aggression or separation distress may arise out of that unhealthy attachment. The thought is that they can entertain each other and tire each other out, which will make your job as the owner easier. The cost to this is that they are then spending a lot of time together, rather than getting one-on-one time with their owners, which is so crucial to properly raising a puppy. This lack of individualized attention may contribute to the dogs not closely bonding with their humans. Letting two pups spend all day every day together without enough solo time and attention could potentially lead to littermate syndrome. Lack of Training Training two Golden Retriever puppies at once is nearly impossible! It will be hectic, frustrating and confusing for both you and the puppies. In order to effectively teach anything, you will have to dedicate time to work with each puppy individually, which means double the time spent training. Some people might not have the time to train each puppy one-on-one, or may just not have the desire to put in double the effort. Training is also an excellent way to bond with your puppy, and so if training is minimal, you will miss out on a crucial opportunity to bond with each pup. Lack of Proper Socialization Socialization is critical to raising a confident, well-behaved dog. The prime time for socialization is before sixteen weeks of age. What your puppy learns and experiences during these first sixteen weeks of age can have a permanent effect on their temperament and behavior. Just like with training, socialization needs to be a one-on-one activity. Again, this means double the socialization, which is a huge time and energy investment for you. Each puppy needs to meet new people and new dogs away from the other puppy. Each puppy needs to visit new environments and have new experiences without their sibling. Each puppy will need to be walked individually. They may always need their sibling next to them in order to feel okay about the world. Lack of one-on-one socialization also leaves a gap in their relationship with you as their owner. Learning about the world with you as their guide creates a strong, positive relationship. Without that foundation, your puppy may choose to take their cues from their puppy sibling, instead of you, which can be very frustrating as they grow up. How To Avoid Littermate Syndrome As mentioned previously, littermate syndrome is not a guaranteed outcome if you do bring home two puppies. The idea that bringing home two puppies will make your job as their owner easier could not be more wrong. Properly training, socializing and raising two puppies at the same time is double the work. The obvious solution to preventing littermate syndrome is to only bring home one puppy. Life with a single Golden Retriever puppy is plenty busy and you completely avoid the risks associated with littermate syndrome. But if you are set on getting two puppies and fully understand the responsibility and risk associated with this, or you already have two, here are some ways that you can prevent littermate syndrome from happening with your pair of pups. This is absolutely crucial to building a strong relationship with your puppies. Play with each puppy one-on-one. Go on walks with each puppy individually. Romp around the yard with them separately. So to counteract any potential for hyper-attachment, commit to spending one-on-one time with each puppy. They may become very distressed if they are separated, which might include destructive behavior, barking, peeing or pooping , or even self-injury. When you work on this in addition to spending one-on-one time with each puppy, you set everyone up for success for the times where one dog needs to go to the vet and the other needs to stay home, for example. Train and Socialize Each Pup Individually While your pair of pups might be two peas in a pod, they are, in fact, two unique individuals, and should be treated as such. Each Golden Retriever puppy has their own distinct temperament, strengths, and weaknesses. Treating the puppies as a unit does them a disservice and might create issues as they mature. Perhaps one puppy can chill in their crate and practice their confinement skills while you work on training the other puppy. You will likely find that each puppy learns things at different paces, and what was easy for one puppy is harder for the other, and vice versa. Spending training time with them individually will help you learn about their unique personality so you can help them really shine. Likewise, socialization should also be done one-on-one. Socialization is a process of exposing your puppy to the world in a way that builds their confidence and teaches them how to feel and act in various environments. Introducing your Goldens to new people, other dogs, new locations, new experiences, new surfaces, new sounds, etc. For example, you take one puppy with you on an errand to a local dog-friendly gardening store. You notice that they are scared when someone else enters the store with a big dog. Your puppy cowers and bit and hides behind you. Ideally, you want each puppy learning how to confidently move through the world with you as their guide. You want them to learn that you are trustworthy and to look to you if they are unsure or scared. Double the Fun, Double the Trouble Bringing home two Golden Retriever puppies has the potential to be a highly rewarding experience, or a disaster waiting to happen. If you are dedicated to putting in the effort to help each puppy mature into a happy, confident, well-behaved dog, it can potentially have a positive outcome. You can always add another puppy to the family when they are more mature and well trained. This is generally a better way to go about it if you want to have two or more! Golden Retrievers. It allows you time to fully bond with your first dog and focus on their training and socialization before you get a second. Typically, things will go more smoothly by getting the two dogs with some time in between, but there are certainly considerations to keep in mind to set everyone up for success from the start. Now, no dog is perfect and they all have their little quirks, but if your current Golden loves to bark out the windows at every passerby, just imagine two Goldens engaging in that behavior. Dogs are social learners and they do learn from each other. You should feel overall comfortable with what your current dog might teach the newcomer. That terrible counter-surfing behavior might get way worse now that your attention is split between your dog and the new pup. You want to feel happy with where things are at with the current dog. However, it is generally a good idea to wait until two years old so that you have really formed a positive relationship with your first dog and have good habits in place. Is it possible to bring home another Golden Retriever when your first one is, say, one year old? Yes, but it might be more work for you. Every dog is different and some older dogs genuinely love interacting with puppies, while others find them to be utterly annoying. Some dogs just adore puppies while others find them repulsive. If your dog has positive, but more lowkey feelings about other dogs, then your process might move along at a quicker pace. Pick a Location First, decide on where the two dogs will meet for the first time. If your dog regularly has playdates at your house and is okay with sharing their space with other dogs, then setting up the first meeting at home might be an option. That way by the time the newcomer is in the house, your older dog is at least aware that they exist and knows their smell. Pick a Time Sometimes picking up your puppy from the breeder is an adventure in itself with road trips and flights involved. And that can mean your puppy might get home at a really odd time. Midnight may not be the ideal time to have your adult dog meet the new baby. Giving them a nice walk before they meet their new sibling can help your dog feel content and more relaxed when the meeting happens. You really need to know your dog and proactively set them up for the most possible success. You can put the puppy in the exercise pen and let them sniff and say hi through the pen at first, which can give you an idea of how both parties are feeling. Loose, wiggly, waggy body language is a positive indication. Signs that a dog is unsure or fearful include tucked tail, cowering, stiff body, hard stare, freezing in place, and growling or snapping. While this might seem sad, it can go a long way to keep everyone safe, and is a completely humane precaution to take. A basket muzzle allows dogs to pant, eat and drink, but prevents teeth from making any contact. If you feel a muzzle is necessary, you should also hire a professional trainer to help you facilitate the meeting process. Plus, getting professional help is never a bad idea. How to Integrate a New Dog with Your Dog Beyond the initial meet and greet, there is the whole process of integrating the new puppy into daily life with your current dog. Again, this requires some planning and strategy to ensure everyone is safe and happy. Management Tools It can help to let them drag light leashes around the house, at least for the first few days, so that you can easily redirect them if needed. This prevents you from having to manhandle your dog or puppy, which can sometimes make them uncomfortable and stressed. It is unrealistic to expect your dog and puppy to spend all day everyday together without issues. Your puppy will get overexcited. Your dog might be too exuberant and you will worry they will squish the baby. Use management strategies like crates , gates , leashes , and pens to give them separate spaces. Your adult Golden might not be too keen on this new punk puppy trying to lick up kibble crumbs while they are still eating dinner, so have a plan for keeping them separate during meal times to prevent any resource guarding issues. Similarly, things like toys and bones can become points of contention, depending on the dog. Or maybe they want to just sniff the toy your older dog is playing with. Keeping an eye out for these situations, and running interference when needed, can go a long way to get your two-dog household off to a good start. Play Times Always monitor play times to ensure that each dog is safe and having fun. You can call them over periodically for some treats and then give them a little down time before allowing them to go back to playing. Alone Time Any time you cannot be actively supervising the two dogs, confine them separately. Separate Spaces Provide them both with their own comfy places to relax. You might find that your puppy struggles to settle with your other dog around, or vice versa. Giving them each their own space, using a gate, crate or pen, can help them learn how to coexist peacefully without constantly erupting into play. Expect Some Bumps in the Road This can be a rocky process sometimes, and just know that is normal. You might find that your existing dog picks up a new bad habit when the puppy comes home. Remember that you have plenty of time to integrate the new pup into your home with your current dog. Do not rush the process! There is always the disappointing possibility that your current dog just cannot cope with another dog in the home. Some dogs truly do best being the only dog in the family. Getting help from a certified dog behavior consultant can help you evaluate your situation and process making a hard decision if necessary. Work on teaching the puppy new skills without your other dog, and then you can add them in as a distraction while you continue to strengthen their skills. Balance all this new attention on the puppy with some quality one-on-one time with your adult Golden Retriever. They used to be the solo light of your life, and now they are sharing you with a new puppy. While the puppy naps, perhaps you go for a walk at the park or hit up a favorite trail for a fun hike. Twice as Nice There is a lot to love about life with two Golden Retrievers. It can really help to have realistic expectations before you become a two-Golden family. Have a plan, and a plan B. The key is to be consistent with proactively avoiding negative interactions and unwanted behavior, while fostering positive interactions and behavior. Do you have two Golden Retrievers? Would you recommend it? Let us know down in the comments! And if you liked this article, check out the ultimate guide to raising a Golden Retriever puppy. Getting a Golden Retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Related articles:. If you already have a Golden, how about doubling the fun by getting another one? Are Golden Retrievers better in pairs? Yes, Golden Retrievers will do better in pairs. Due to their social nature, they will have each other for constant companionship throughout the day and anytime you are away or busy. On the downside, taking care of two Golden Retriever dogs will double your chores and expenses. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! What if you can add another Golden Retriever dog to the household mix, and they could use some of their abundant energy wearing each other out instead? As you may already know, the purebred Golden Retriever was initially bred in Scotland around the s when breeders wanted a powerful hunting dog who could retrieve game from both land and water while running through the countryside all day long. Because of this, Golden Retrievers were bred to have abundant levels of energy. The rule of thumb with a Golden Retriever is you should take your pup for a minute walk at least 2 times per day more is better to keep him healthy and entertained. Between wrestling and chasing each other around the house, two Golden Retrievers will easily get their allotted exercise time each and every day. Note: While a second dog of the same breed is great, a Golden Retriever will be just as happy with a different breed of doggy companion. For the best level of exercise, however, another Golden or a breed with similar energy levels ie. Labrador Retriever would be best. This family picked out two Golden Retriever puppies right from the start! Why is this wrong? Having two dogs can be an excellent way to deal with spoiled behavior. When you go for walks, your dog will also learn to curb his urge to move around each time the other dog stops for a potty break. It Satisfies the Pack Instincts Regardless of the breed, all dogs want to live in a pack. They want to have an alpha leader to look up to, promoting their sense of overall security. It will also alleviate any separation anxiety that is common among Golden Retrievers. It Grants Your Senior Dog a New Sense of Purpose Like most large breed dogs, senior Golden Retrievers have a high risk of developing hip dysplasia, a destructive bone disease that limits their activity level. Getting a younger Golden Retriever can be the best way to rejuvenate your senior dog without demanding excessive physical activity. The older dog will teach the new member all the house rules, including where to do his business, how to react politely to visitors, how to play with kids without hurting them, and so forth. This really works! Not only did it give them a sense of purpose it seemed to make them feel more relaxed when we were away from home knowing they had a buddy in the house still. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! If they should each need veterinary treatment at the same time, it can really add up fast! If you thought one Golden could eat through a expensive 40lb bag of kibble quickly, just wait untill you see two in action! Consider grooming, for instance. Since Goldens have long, wavy coats, you should brush them at least once per week. Because Golden Retrievers have floppy ears, they may also develop nasty infections without regular ear cleaning. If you let that go for a day or two your backyard will look like poopageddon! You May Not Have Enough Space If you already have a Golden, you probably know that they can grow taller than 25 inches 63 cm and heavier than 60 pounds 27 kgs. In that case, you could still reap the benefits of getting a second dog by opting for a smaller breed, such as a Pug, Basset Hound, Boston Terrier, or even a Miniature Goldendoodle. Check out the following tips to ensure that your dogs get along well, especially when first introduced. Pick Neutral Ground For Introductions No matter how friendly your Golden Retriever is, his territorial instincts could kick in if a new dog invades his personal space all of a sudden. Encourage them to sniff and play together, but keep an eye out for the following signs of aggression so that you can intervene right away if necessary: Growling. That includes Puppy and Training classes, take them to a trainer that understands the inherent difficulties of raising two puppies together. Take them on separate nights hopefully to the same trainer. They can play together but only at strict designated times and for a period of no more than 15 minutes each designated play time. This regime will not be for life as the pups will, after a period of about 12 to 14 months have formed their own personalities and temperaments; at this age they will have become confident of their own individual abilities. Not as in most cases total inter-dependence to each other when siblings are raised, trained, and fed together. Without the total reliance on their sibling for constant support they will grow and blossom into much rounder and less aggressive and fearful individuals. I cannot stress how important it is to separate the siblings until they are older. It will produce two individuals rather than an impaired two parts of the whole. It is worth stating that it is not only siblings that have these problems. If you raise two young pups from different litters or even breeds, you can have similar problems. I always recommend my clients to wait till their puppy is 14 months old before purchasing another puppy this then allows you to concentrate all your efforts on that individual and hopefully it will take on some of the good traits of the older more experienced dog. I have no respect for a breeder that uses these tactics or that sell litter mates to one owner. If they are experienced and not a first time breeder then they are well aware of the pitfalls of these actions, and that the dogs will suffer for the rest of their lives. Post Reply Preview alsdengoldies btinternet. I'm so sorry, it must have been very hard. Post Reply Preview todd. For the first few years the vet bills will be rather straight forward, just beware as the dogs age you'll probably be faced with double the expense when the dogs reach the age of eight or so, which is when the health problems this breed is known for usually start to surface. Post Reply Preview alanckaye 13 years ago Hi, I'd just like to comment as I have only recently learned of "littermate syndrome" recently. Two years ago my wife and I decided it was time to give a good home to another golden. We lost KC to cancer after 14 years a few years prior. When we went to the breeder in Ocala, Fl. The girls were bottle fed. It was their mother's third litter which to me seems excessive since she was only six when she died. We had been told it would not be good to take two puppies from the same litter - for reasons I'm guessing mentioned above but our hearts went out to the sisters and we ignored the rules taking both home. KD and Karma are close, they play together but they also fight - one will wine for attention from my wife or I but aside from that they have both bonded with us remarkably well. Karma adores me and often positions herself in our home to where she has full sight of me or I have to step over her so she knows when I'm on the move. The only thing I have noticed is when we walk them together and one is out of sight of the other they begin to search for the other. One is picky with being friendly to strangers or strange dogs. The other will be friendly to any and all people and dogs. They were raised in separate crates in the same room as puppies and I take them for their morning walk separately. I suppose I'm lucky that I did not have to return the girls because we fell in love with them at first sight and they are a very important part of our life - especially for me as a retired law enforcement officer, I spend about 16 hours a day with them. I take care of all their needs, even to the point of expressing their anal glands when I notice they have become uncomfortable with full glands. This seems to happen mostly at night when I am ready for bed and I notice a subtle change in one girl and how she seems to be feeling not up to par. I appreciate this information as it does give me some insight into why they act the way they do at times but all in all this has been a very good experience for all - the sisters are together and do love each other and they love us as much as we do them. I guess my point here is that if you do get litter mates it doesn't have to turn out to be a bad thing. The puppies in the photo are adorable - it's a shame you had to return them. Post Reply Preview gabbi 13 years ago Thanks everyone for such a great discussion and willingness to share your experience and expertise. Like everyone here I am a dog lover! I have a 7yr old husky-sheperd mix. Very sad. Took me three years to get over it enough to be able to get another dog. So cute and can live up to the name Nightmare 2. I have always wanted and loved the look of the Bernese mountain dogs. So I ended up getting a puppy from there two.His name is Armegeddon. I read about how important it was to make sure they bond with etc. So I put in a lot of hard work.Walks, separate training from the same trainer. I'm also very lucky that I can bring my dogs to work. This I think made all the difference in socializing them to be their own dogs and further reinforce me as alpha. So like other people, I am having a positive experience. They are 13 monthes now. They were getting into fights for a couple of weeks.But I made sure to assert myself right away if I saw Nightmare's body language indicating he was gonna start something. Nightmare was the one starting it, so I would confront him with my body and walk toward him. So he would back away and be focussed on me instead of picking a fight. This nipped it in the bud. They have been good. I have no idea how this is going to work out. They weren't raised together, so I'm hoping this helps. To complicate matters, Cocoa is in heat at 13 monthes old. Both boys are neutered, but Nightmare is trying to mount Cocoa. Armegeddon is not, which is good. But he is not happy with her. They had a squirmish last night, so we will see what happens over the next couple of weeks. Any suggestions are welcome or ideas of where to find similiar situations would be great! Post Reply gouldj Posted 12 years ago. Edited by gouldj member 12 years ago We purchased two Golden Retrievers over 8 years ago, they were brothers. Sadly one of our Goldens just passed away. While they were both alive we never once experienced the troubles associated with "littermate Syndrome". To the contrary, our Goldens were best of friends and they were also best of friends to my wife and me. I had actually never heard of this syndrome until very recently and was amazed at the "issues" people were having. I am not sure what we did differently from other owners so I do not have any advice to share. I will not hesitate one second to get two Golden brothers again. They are sister and brother. I never knew of same litter syndrome, I just thought the problems with the dogs was a follow on from my circumstances changing. I lived alone but then shortly after getting the dogs I meet a guy with two kids we now all live together and recently had a baby myself. But the dogs have had three huge fights were they have been pulled apart before the male killed the female, but then when it has all calmed down they dont want to be seperated, even from another room the female gets anixious. They are together all day and sleep together. They love the kids but the female is shy and doesnt always want to interact. But yet she is great with other dogs and the male attacks other dogs feeding off her insecurity. I am booked in for dog training classes tonight one dog per session. I hope that something can be done eve though they are 3. I feel so bad I have left it go but in the case I was totally ignorant! Post Reply. Many people who have a dog often ask themselves whether they should get another. I did! I often asked myself; Does my golden retriever need a companion? He is a social dog and will not have any issues adjusting especially when he spent his puppy life in a multi-dog family environment. Many fellow Golden Retriever owners say that having a pair of Goldens is a good thing. Golden Retrievers are known to be very social dogs, and always get along well with other Goldens. Before bringing a new puppy or adult Golden dog into your home, it is important to evaluate your current Golden and carefully assess if having a second golden dog will be beneficial. Here are ten things you may want to think about when asking yourself if getting a second dog is a good idea. Dog ownership cost has to be a top consideration. Food, vet bills, dog care supplies, and pet insurance can add up to a hefty amount. It is important to make sure your household budget can cater to owning a second dog. Everything works out if you plan well. How will your dog feel? It is crucial to consider how a second dog will make your first dog feel. Your first dog is used to being the only companion and might act upset or jealous and develop anxiety. So, consider a thorough assessment evaluation of your current dog before adding a second dog. Another Golden Retriever is the best companion dog for your Golden Retriever. However, Golden Retriever also gets along well with most other breeds of dogs. If you are considering a different breed, read up on their different character traits and behavior to make sure it is a good match. To further your dog breed education, consult your veterinarian and connect with other Golden Retriever owners who currently have a two-dog household. Gender Matters: Male or Female Dog? Gender plays an important role in whether your second dog will get along with your current dog. And, many experts tend to agree on this as sometimes bringing a same-sex second dog into the home can create problems: Female dogs can often display jealousy to each other, and male dogs may show aggression to each other. In our case, we did not follow this rule and decided to welcome another male dog into our household. No aggression and jealousy occurred. Is it better to get a puppy as a second dog? A puppy is always a temptation, but it may not be a good idea especially if you have an elderly or sick older dog. Do You Have the Space? Having adequate space to play and for comfortable living, eating and sleeping is another important factor. Golden Retrievers are considered big dogs but can definitely live in a small home as long as you provide adequate exercise, mental stimulation, proper training, and routine grooming. Do You Have the Time? As much as two dogs can keep each other company, they will still want a piece of you. So before you decide whether you should get another dog, make sure you can provide both dogs the energy and attention they both need; especially the new dog that will require a lot of your time. A good play routine for each dog is one way to stay on top of this requirement. Make sure you have your first dog fully-trained before introducing a second dog. Any new dog will learn from the older dog. Remember you will have to contribute a lot of your time and energy to this process also. So be honest and ask yourself — Do you have the ability to commit to all the responsibilities for another dog? Is a second dog really the right decision for your family? Having a second dog is double the joy if it is done for the right reasons. Does your family want a second dog? Make sure to include your whole family in making decisions. Owning dogs involve a huge commitment. Are you in for the long haul? When life changes occur unexpectedly, your family must be able to continue providing the best life for your dogs. No matter what, bringing a dog into your home will change your life. There are lots of responsibilities to having two dogs, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. Two dogs mean double the fun, love, and will definitely keep you active. Be prepared to plan your life and your time around your dogs. Adding another dog to your life is a big decision and will definitely enrich your life. Hopefully, the above points will help you to decide if getting a second dog is a good idea. But one thing is for sure if you do it right — two dogs equal twice the fun, happiness, unconditional love, and enjoyable companionship for everyone around. Related Posts:. Day 8 — Ohhhh…The Puppy Piles! The result of puppies sleeping close together to keep warm? Puppy Piles! Day 11 — Eyes Wide Open! What an exciting day for me and the pups. No more army crawl for these cute munchkins! Two or our Golden puppies, Bear and Buster. An end to the army crawl. Week 2 of our series on Golden Retriever puppy growth week by week is in the books! Check out our other Golden Retriever puppy growth week-by-week growth charts: Week 1 — Six Golden Retriever puppies are born! Week 2 -This is Week 2! Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — The great puppy escape artists! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. So how about your guys? Have you ever raised a litter of Golden Retriever puppies? Or maybe you have a litter of puppies coming soon. If you have any questions or comments please leave us a note in the comment section below. Puppies for Dummies will give you the basics on how to raise and train your new puppy. Our litter of Golden Retriever puppies week two. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Although the collar has been more common over the centuries, sledding dogs of the frozen North and drafting dogs like the Rottweiler and Bernese Mountain Dog have been harnessed to pull sleds and carts since the 18th century. However, the medical data available to us now shows the full extent of damage a collar can cause your dog. This may result in a severe trachea injury, hypothyroidism, ear, eye, and nerve damage. Therefore, a harness is far safer for your pup than a collar. What if my dog pulls on a harness? According to the PDSA PAW report , about a quarter of all owners who adopt a dog from a shelter complain that leash pulling as the most common behavioral problem they face. This is certainly a frustrating issue that can drain all the fun out of walking your dog. The simplest method to deal with a pulling dog is to use an excellent no-pull harness. In addition, behavioral modification through positive training techniques can work together with your harness to keep your dog walking calmly and politely at your side. How do I know for sure what size harness to buy for my dog? Just like clothes for humans, companies that make and sell dog harnesses can differ in their parameters for a specific size. For instance, a Chihuahua will probably be an extra-small size while Great Dane will probably be—you guessed it— extra-large. But dogs can vary wildly within the breed. There are some giant Labs out there and some confusingly small German Shepherds. Not to mention mix breeds, designer dogs, and mutts that can come in any shape or size. Another point to keep in mind is that dogs also vary according to gender. This means that while your male Samoyed might fit happily in a large harness, your female Samoyed might well need a medium one. Therefore, selecting a harness based on breed alone can be misleading and result in purchasing the wrong product altogether. It is essential to only use the breed chart only as a general guideline. One should also be aware that certain breeds are bred to extremes, and finding a harness that fits them can be a challenge. A Boerboel or a Neapolitan Mastiff can easily tip the scales at pounds, making them too big for many harness brands. If in doubt, contact the company first to ensure they have a harness that will fit your dog. Which harness size should I buy for my puppy? A further consideration is what harness to buy for puppies. For example, what size harness should you buy for a Golden Retriever puppy? A large breed like the Golden Retriever will undoubtedly grow out of multiple harnesses by the time it is full-grown. A post shared by Dogs Pets Puppies goldenretrieverpuppys It may need a small or a medium-size from between four and five months and will likely graduate to large when it has reached eight months. Keep in mind this is only a general guideline, and puppies can vary in growth curves just as much as human children do. This is usually just behind his elbows. Simply take a tape measure the circumference of its chest from the withers and around the ribcage at the most extended point. This means starting at the end of the tape at the top of the shoulders and circling the tape around the largest portion of the ribcage to where it meets at the shoulders again. How do I weigh my dog? For most dog owners, the easiest way to weigh your dog is to step onto the bathroom scale and weigh yourself. Then get off and climb on again, this time holding your pooch. Of course, if you happen to own a four-pound Teacup Bichon Frise, you can probably make use of your kitchen scales and it would be adorable. On the other hand, some of us own dogs that are far too big to pick up, at least without slipping a disc. In this case, the best thing to do is to go in to see your vet, who will be able to weigh your dog with their specialized veterinary scales. Dog Harness sizes by breeds For an idea of where your dog might fit on the size, weight, and breed scale, you can study the PawSafe dog harness measurement guidelines below for their no-pull harness , which is also designed to work with a doggy seatbelt to keep your pup safe while traveling. Here are some essential points that every owner should consider when purchasing the harness for their beloved one. Measure Your Golden Retriever For A Harness It is one of the most important steps that owners should take, no matter whether your golden retriever is in puppyhood or adulthood. Just measure the fullest part of your doggo chest behind their front legs, and make sure whenever you measure your dog chest, they must be standing on a flat surface. Once you determine that, and the size showing somewhere between small and larger sizes, consider the large one, as it will be more suitable for your puppy. Quality Material Material is something you must look into whenever you buy harnesses, collars, leash, bandanas, etc. The harness must be made of breathable and lightweight material. Plus, a lightweight harness helps your puppy feel light and airy whenever she wears the harness. Customizable It is always good to use harnesses that can be easily adjustable according to the needs of your golden retriever. A Customizable harness allows perfect fit along the belly and chest area and back, which is essential for the dog that pulls a lot during the walk. Basically, a well-fitted harness helps to keep the puppy or adult dog in control to prevent any mishappenings in a crowded place. Puppy Behavior Golden retrievers are a High-energy sporting breed, and that sporting instinct sometimes encourages them to chase moving things on walks, and it can be anything like a ball, squirrels, etc. Hence if you know the behavior and temperament of your Golden pup, it will help you get the best harness for them. This means if our golden pup pulls a lot, then you can use anti-pull harnesses. These harnesses are typically known as Front Clip Harness. With these anti-pull harnesses, your pup can quickly learn not to pull on the leash. On the other hand, if the pup has a good temperament, you can use the regular harness. Safety Features Never give safety a day off! And look for harnesses whose straps are made of a thick and durable material like polyester and nylon. However, you can use fabric harnesses for puppies, as they are not strong pullers. Typically harnesses come with two attachment points, either at the front clip near the chest or the back clip. So in case, your goldie is a heavy puller, you can go with the harness that has a front attachment point that helps prevent any pulling action. While if your goldie has a calm temperament, you can choose a harness with a back attachment point. However, many harnesses come with dual-clip attachment points both back and front. I use them too for each of my dogs. Ergonomic Design Pick the harness that slips on or off your puppy in seconds. Usually, the harness comes in two designs, either step-in design or overhead design. The step-in design is the one where your puppies have to put their front legs into it to wear. Both of the harnesses are pretty easy to take on or off on puppies or adult golden retrievers. So choose the one that eases you the most. Harnesses that have highly reflective strips are excellent to use at night time or early in the morning. People who live in the tropical region often prefer to walk with their puppies either at night or early in the morning due to high temperatures. So whether you pick a dual-clip, step-in, overhead, or adjustable harness, just make sure it has highly reflective straps for added safety.

Now taking deposits for litters going home October or call Bill Mays at For the latest news regarding available puppies, please visit the SouthWind Labrador Facebook page! These dogs will be great family companions as well as your best hunting partner for many years. Southwind Labradors have both Fox Red and yellow lab puppies for sale. Our fox Red puppies are brilliant red and our yellow puppies are usually yellow with red highlights. We are home-based breeders and focus on quality. My dogs are my companions and join me in the field for hunting. I am an Outdoor writer for hunting magazines, I duck hunt, upland game hunt, and my dogs give me their all in the field. We breed a Labrador Retriever you can hunt with for 3 months and live in harmony as a calm well-adjusted family dog. We work very hard to maintain our dogs and our kennel. Our females have a secure environment with temperature control so they are stress-free as they care for their litter. Our females are well adjusted and have excellent temperaments. Over the past 25 years of raising puppies we have made many new friends and have sold puppies to parents and now their children. Families who have purchased puppies from us have kept in contact and sent us letters and pictures of their puppies as they grow up. We raise Labrador Retriever puppies for the love of the breed and to bring love and happiness into your household for years to come. Thank you, We pride ourselves on having a very select, well-planned breeding program, producing top quality Labrador Retriever puppies that you will be proud to own, and love to live with. All of the dogs in our breeding program come from excellent pedigrees, with Champion bloodlines. However, we feel that the most important job our Lab puppies have is bringing years of joy and companionship to their humans. Summerland Labradors was established in , and through selective breeding we strive to not only improve our own breeding program with every litter being better than the last, but our goal is to better the breed as a whole. Our objective is to produce a Labrador Retriever that excels in all aspects of life and conforms to the highest standards of the American Kennel Club. Health and soundness is of great importance in our breeding program, therefore all of our adult Labradors have had their hips and elbows cleared through the OFA, have their hearts cleared, are PRA and EIC tested, and have their eyes cleared through a Veterinary Ophthalmologist before they are considered for breeding. Generally, we only have litters a year, so we will occasionally have Labrador Puppies available as outstanding family companions. Our Lab puppies are lovingly raised in our home under the watchful care of our whole family; they are well socialized around children, different textures, surfaces and noises to ensure that you get the sweetest addition to your family. When you are ready for an incredible addition to your family, we encourage you to Contact Us to be notified of our next available litter, as our Lab puppies are often sold before they are born. Our Prices: Our base prices are listed below, according to current demand for colors and genders. Note: Sales tax is due on any pups or merchandise sold in California. By request, and for an additional fee, we often transport puppies to Davis. We used to be able to ship puppies via airplane all over the continental United States, but more restrictions apply at this time, due to Covid, extreme heat, or extreme cold. Unfortunately, we no longer ship puppies to Hawaii, due to their quarantine restrictions. Can I pick out my Labrador Retriever puppy before the designated adoption date? Sorry, but no. Most people will not know which puppy they are choosing until puppy adoption day. What supplies do we need for our new puppy? So many people ask us this question, we wrote a blog giving our advice. You can read our blog here. Do you raise American or English Labs? Both, actually, but mainly American. Only a few of our dogs are pure English; some are a blend of American and English. Litters are usually pure American or a blend of American and English. None, so far, are pure English. If you scroll down to the bottom of the videos page you can also view links to past litters of Labrador puppies for your viewing pleasure. We may, however, be able to refer you to hunting dog trainers, so feel free to shoot us an email asking us about that. Marble Mountain Kennels.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Chicago Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Chicago? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Chicago? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Illinois Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Illinois? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Illinois? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. We have answers. There are a number of factors that affect how much Golden Retriever puppies Illinois would be. A Golden Retriever breeder Illinois that has more experience also tends to sell their dogs at a higher price. Do your breeders transport puppies out of state? Are there Golden Retriever breeders near me? We work with breeders and businesses from all 48 states in the continental US. All of them have a proven track record of transporting dogs safely to any major airport. How do you screen breeders? Learn more about our criteria at the Breeder Pledge page. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? Simple: We care about animals and the families they will go home to. With us, you are. We have a wide network of partner breeders and companies, and we can attest to the legitimacy of each and every one of them. What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are businesses that prioritize money over animal welfare. They produce puppies with no consideration of animal rights, ethical breeding practices, or health condition--the only thing that matters is the bottom line. If you buy a Golden Retriever for sale Illinois from a puppy mill, expect to spend a lot on vet bills—with no guarantee how long your dog will live. Are there any purebred Golden Retriever puppies for sale near me? What is the MatchMaker process? We want to make your life with your new best friend the happiest it can be--and it starts with choosing the right puppy for you. Some of our happy clients share their stories below. We hope one day, you will too.

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 .Learn more » Congratulations on your new golden retriever puppy! You now have a beautiful, smart, and loyal dog who will love you for life. To make sure they grow into a healthy and happy companion, you need to feed them the right amount of food. At months old, which is usually when they are ready to leave their mother, a golden retriever puppy should be eating 3 cups of dog food divided into three meals per day. This is based on a typical large-breed puppy food. Different brands will give a feeding guide on their packaging. However, how much and how often to feed your golden retriever will keep changing during this time of rapid growth. Golden Retriever Puppy Feeding Timeline Image Credit: PxHere All puppies are different as are the foods, but some general guidelines for feeding your golden retriever during their first year are: 0—6 weeks: A golden retriever puppy can start eating solid food when they are 3—4 weeks old. Give them a total of 3 cups of dog food per day by their third month, 3 to 4 cups by the time they are 6 months old. The AKC recommends waiting until large breed puppies are at least 12 months old before switching them over to adult dog food and more likely 18 months. The amount will depend on their weight and activity level, but a rough guide is 1—2 cups per meal. Image Credit: Kinek00, Shutterstock Large breed puppies like golden retrievers should eat three to four small meals a day for the first 3—6 months of their lives. Smaller portions spread throughout the day are easier on their tummies and help prevent bloat, a serious condition that can be deadly for dogs. It also helps them maintain their energy level throughout the day. Puppy food has more calories and fat to support their growth, as well as extra vitamins and minerals for their developing immune and nervous systems and bones. The protein source matters, too. Puppies need animal-based proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb for their growing muscles. Choose a Large Breed Formula: Large breed puppies grow quickly, which means they need extra support for their bones and joints. Formulations for large breeds contain the correct calcium and phosphorus ratio for strong bones and glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints. They can help you choose the right food for your puppy based on their age, weight, and activity level. But puppies need to be fed on a schedule to prevent them from overeating and becoming overweight. How do you know if your puppy is getting enough to eat? After that, their growth will start to slow down. He Has a Healthy Appetite: A healthy puppy is interested in food and eager to eat. He Has Plenty of Energy: A well-fed puppy is full of energy and ready to play. Make the most of mealtime with these tips: 1. It also helps other aspects of puppy training, such as potty training and crate training. Image Credit: Alena Marchuk, Shutterstock This means leaving food out all day for them to graze on whenever they want. Leave food down for 10 minutes and then pick up what is not eaten. If they have not eaten anything, offer it again in an hour. Slow them down by scattering their kibble around the bowl, using a puzzle feeder or snuffle mat. This will help them learn to eat slowly and enjoy their food more. If your puppy is not drinking enough water for your liking, try adding a bit of broth to their bowl to make it more appealing and help them stay hydrated. Resist the Urge to Sneak Them Table Scraps Puppies are experts at giving those big, soulful eyes that make it hard to say no. But resist the temptation to give them table scraps or human food. Aside from teaching them bad manners, it can also lead to health problems, like obesity. A lot of human foods are not safe or healthy for dogs. For instance, garlic and onions are toxic to dogs. Oily food can upset their stomach, and carbs add a lot of calories. This helps them learn that mealtime is a specific time and place and not something that happens all over the house. Let Your Puppy Eat in Peace. This includes other pets in the house and small children who might want to bother them or try to steal their food. Otherwise, meals can become a stressful experience for your puppy instead of a happy one. Conclusion Feeding your golden retriever puppy the right amount of quality dog food will establish a strong foundation for their health and happiness. In addition, make mealtimes more meaningful by turning them into lessons and bonding moments between you and your dog. The puppy phase is over before you know it, so enjoy it while it lasts! 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. There is also info on how to keep your puppy and your adult at his or her optimum weight. Scroll down to find growth charts to make sure your puppy is growing at the proper rate and is within the right weight range for his age. If you are looking for information on what to feed, go to How to Choose a Dog Food. Unlike with human children, a puppy that is overfed will grow too fast before they grow too fat. A good example is where a smaller puppy at 10 weeks was overfed and his growth was compared to a puppy that was correctly fed. The growth of your puppy needs to be controlled. General Guidelines for Puppies Below are some general guidelines on how much to feed puppies. Most dog food bags suggest feeding too much. Increase to about 3 cups a day by 5 months for boys and by 6 months for girls. Golden Retrievers at this age are supposed to look lanky and all Golden Retrievers act like they are starving when fed the correct amount. If left to eat as much as they want, they will all grow too fast. In the wild, dogs do not have unlimited access to eat as much as they want. They work for their food. Caloric Needs Greatly Decrease at About a Year When puppies reach about months, their caloric needs begin to decrease. Some males might need 4 cups if active and are fed a less expensive food. Make sure you take into consideration the number of extra calories being fed as treats. You should be able to feel their ribs, but not see them even when the dog is wet. If you can see the ribs, increase their food. Decrease the food if you cannot feel them. I always tell people that it is better to underfeed than to overfeed, especially when feeding puppies. Weight Range Charts Following are charts of how puppies should generally grow in weight. Keep in mind that very few puppies need to be at the top of these ranges and if you cannot feel ribs, your dog is overweight even if she is in this weight range. If your dog is still a puppy and she is over these weight ranges, you are feeding her too much. Female Golden Retriever Weight Chart Here is a chart of how girls should generally grow in weight: 2 Months — pounds.

Mixed Breeds By K9 of Mine Staff 19 min read July 14, 23 Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Labrador retrievers are well known for their even-tempered personalities, loyalty, fun-loving natures, and complete devotion to their family members. In fact, the Labrador retriever continues to be the most popular dog breed in the US — a position the breed has held for 27 years straight! Take a gander and share your thoughts in the comments below! Note: K9 of Mine does not endorse irresponsible breeding — please keep in mind that this photo collection is intended for enjoyment and pooch appreciation, not as any kind breeding recommendation or resource. There is very little official data about mixed breed dogs, so the photos displayed here are chosen based on information given by owners. We are unable to personally verify the breed heritage of the pooches shown here — instead, we must simply trust that owners are truthfully describing their dogs with they share photos of their mixed breed canines. TL;DR: Just enjoy the cute photos of doggos! The Basics of the Labrador Retriever Before we introduce you to some of the cutest Lab mixes around, it is important that we talk about a few of the basics of Labradors. This will help you decide whether a Lab mix may be a good fit for your family! Labradors usually weigh between 60 and 80 pounds and stand about 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder. Labs have moderately long lifespans of about 12 years, though some reach even older ages. Labs are members of the sporting group, who were originally bred to help fisherman tend nets, until their owners started using them to retrieve downed birds. Labrador retrievers have a friendly, happy-go-lucky demeanor, and they usually get along with most two- and four-footers they encounter. Labs are full of energy and often make superb running or hiking companions. Labrador retrievers can make great pets for first-time dog owners, so long as you provide plenty of exercise and stimulation each day. Labs are people-oriented dogs, who thrive best in homes that are rarely empty. Labrador retrievers are generally intelligent and eager to please, making training a breeze. Labs tend to shed pretty heavily, thanks to their thick double coats. Labrador retrievers do often suffer from a few common health problems, including patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and osteochondritis dissecans. No dog breed is perfect for all situations or scenarios, but as you can see, Labs are certainly one of the most appealing breeds in the world and they have quite a bit to offer the right family! Without further ado, here are some Labrador designer breeds that are sure to steal your heart. In some cases, like the Labradoodle a cross between a Labrador retriever and a poodle , the names are pretty popular and used widely. Australian Shepherd Lab mixes also produces some puppers with pretty adorable coat color patterns , which just adds to their appeal. These pups are best paired with active owners. But while they may have blockier builds than typical Labs, most of these guys and gals are big softies, who love nothing more than cuddling with their humans. Like Labs, American bulldogs excel at a wide variety of tasks, making them great all-around dogs for families, farmers, hunters, and more! Labs are lovable goofballs who are all about fun and games, while Akitas are no-nonsense pooches, who project an air of competence and quiet dignity. One pooch in the litter may take after the Lab parent, while another may more closely resemble the Akita. Name aside, these playful pups have energy levels that are off-the-charts, so be sure you have a big yard and plenty of time to visit the park before adding one of these dogs to your family. Well, the Beagador may be just the thing! But, they can be a bit aloof around strangers. But when you cross a bullmastiff with a Lab — a dog who views all strangers as potential pals — all bets are off! These mixes can be a bit of a house-keeping headache, as Labs shed pretty heavily, while bullmastiffs are Olympic-caliber droolers. Labs have held the 1 spot since , but the cocker spaniel has sat atop the popularity pyramid in 23 different years since the s. Note that there are two different corgi breeds the Cardigan Welsh corgi and the Pembroke Welsh corgi , and each will produce a slightly different version of this mixed breed. Either are considered Lab Corgi dogs. Doberdor Labrador Retriever X Doberman Pinscher A post shared by Charli the doberdor charlithedoberdor Given that Dobermans and Labs are both very affectionate dogs who bond strongly with their owners, Doberdor mixed breed pups will make great companions for individuals and families alike. The Doberdor loves his human family and will make it known with endless puppy kisses and loyalty. Wanna see more Doberman mixes? Check out 15 of our favorites here! You may just want to consider the Dalmador. Labs make pretty good jogging partners themselves, and Dalmatians can run for days. Honestly, there are a variety of Dalmatian mixes available for fans of polka-dotted pooches. Dachsador Labrador Retriever X Dachshund. Moderate Grooming Moderate Grooming Although enthusiasts would advise any interested dog owners to ask which line their Lab mix puppies come from, it's still important to note that there is only one Labrador breed. Whichever your Lab mix is from, I'm sure it'd still be the best boy or girl you can ever care for. Labrador Mixes Size Because Labradors are considered medium to large dogs, so they definitely affect their hybrid size. For example, small breeds mixed with Labradors may stand and weigh more than the other purebred parent. Mixed with larger breeds, then they may stand and weigh less than the larger parent. It all boils down to your preference and lifestyle as the owner. Labrador Mixes Life Span Numerous studies have found that mixed-breed dogs may live just a little bit longer than purebreds. The same goes with Labrador mixes as they are expected to live for 12 to 14 years, slightly longer than a purebred Labrador of 10 to 12 years. But as long as they are happy and healthy, Lab mixes can surely accompany you for a much longer time than that! Labrador Mixes Health Generally, Labradors are quite a healthy breed. The same goes with Lab mixes, although they can still be prone to diseases inherent to their parents' breed even though they are expected to be genetically better. Some health concerns that Lab mix owners need to watch out for are different eye diseases, Elbow and Hip Dysplasia , Arthritis, Obesity, etc. Labrador Mixes Temperament Knowing the temperament of a purebred pup is easy, but not for mixed breeds. As they are born from two different breeds with different personalities and temperaments, your guess is only as good as mine on how a Labrador hybrid will turn out. If possible, meet both parents to know what personality your dog may pick up. Or you can also observe their behavior and temperament in the kennel, especially if they are at least 6 months of age or older. Labrador Mixes Energy Level Because Labradors are energetic, their mixes can also be quite energetic too, especially if combined with an equally active breed. As a rule of thumb, a Labrador mix needs at least 1 hour of physical activity a day or else, they'd redirect their energy to chewing off things, and you don't want that! And depending on how active they are, they can do zoomies way longer than that! Apart from running or playing fetch, Labradors are also known swimmers—maybe that's something your Lab mix would also want to try! The over-the-top cuteness of a Labradoodle won the hearts of millions of dog owners worldwide with their cute smile, teeny ears for a big body, and fluffy fur. They are low-shedders and a perfect family dog, especially for children! Unlike the Labradoodle, Goldador can be heavy shedders. Their double coats need brushing every other day. Also, they require plenty of physical exercise so having a spacious house or yard is better to accommodate a Goldador's energy. Although they have short coats, they can still shed quite often, so regular brushing and grooming are also necessary. This hybrid is very much protective, loyal , and affectionate to its family members. Apart from being playful, they mostly retain their Border Collie parent's herding instinct, so there may be some nipping-at-the-heel action going, especially if they're not trained. There's no other way to describe a Labrbull's appearance but that. Since Pitbulls have such a bad rep just a misunderstanding, if you ask me! They may look fierce, but Labrabulls are sweet and easy to care for! Great Danes are gentle giants, and so do Labradanes. They are great for families with kids and don't need as much exercise as other Labrador mixes. First-time owners would surely do well in caring for a Labradane. It's quite difficult to guess the temperament of an Aussiedor because its parents' personalities are polar opposites. While Labradors tend to be friendly and outgoing, Australian Shepherds are more of I-don't-need-friends-I'm-shy-but-I-got-you types of dogs. Aussiedors can also inherit their other parent's herding instinct, which may be a problem for your small kids if you have one! Beagadors can go along with other pets. However, training may be quite difficult, especially if they mostly take after their Beagle parent. But because both its parents are intelligent, Labraheelers can do well in agility and obedience training. Houses with yards are preferred, but apartment living is fine too, just as long as they get their daily hour walk. There's no mistaking the parentage of this mixed-breed dog with its startling blue eyes and regal demeanor. Huskadors are intelligent and intuitive. They can easily pick up new commands and tricks as they are being taught. However, they got the extra shedding coat of their Husky parent, so extra brushing is also needed. Plus, they can also be the clingy type, so don't leave them too long on their own. Labmaraners do well in outdoor activities, which means couch potato owners may have to exert more effort in keeping them happy. They can also weigh up to 90 lbs, so beware of small kids and little pets! Labmaraners are generally friendly, but they may get too friendly without giving a mind to how big they actually are! One thing's sure, though—they are working dogs through and through, so lots of physical activities are necessary. You can also expect a year-round moderate shedding thanks to their thick, double coats of fur. Dachsadors are quite lively and motivated, and thanks to their size, they'd be contented playing zoomies even in an apartment setting. They'd also happily cuddle with you on the couch as they don't require much physical activity, unlike the others. Spanadors can weigh up to 50 lbs and can do well in different canine agility sports. But if you only want to relax on the couch, they can be the perfect companion for that too! Apart from being sociable, Dalmadors are great guard dogs thanks to the protective genes of a Dalmatian. However, because they're intelligent, you may need to try different approaches in training them, or else they'll get easily bored! Because of this, their energies if not used wisely may mostly be spent chasing after smaller animals. On the other hand, Springadors will do their best to please their owners, so you'll definitely get an attentive and faithful companion out of them. Mixed with an equally active Labrador, we get a tiny furball of pure energy from Labrahuahuas. But don't worry, whatever aggressive behavior their Chihuahua parents typically have wasn't picked up by the Labrahuahua. They love being the center of everybody's attention and would happily entertain everyone they know well. Just be mindful of those skin folds—they need constant cleaning, too to prevent any complications from developing! Chabradors are extremely loyal dogs that tend to bond well with one human. They don't need much exercise, but they do need a lot of grooming and brushing because of those thick, double coats that shed quite often. And depending on how large the Labrador parent is, they can actually weigh up to a whopping lbs! Another thing they commonly inherit from the other parent is a gentle and mellow personality. However, expect to clean your house more frequently because Labernards can also be quite the shedder! A full-grown Doberdor can weigh up to lbs and will definitely need a lot of active time to be fit and healthy. They are also quite a friendly mixed breed when socialized properly, and their alertness makes them excellent watchdogs too. Well, just imagine a Pug's face in a Lab's body! This mix can grow up to 50 lbs and can be quite the shedder too. Pugadors are also good as playmates and companions for kids! No wonder Labrakitas got this personality, too, although on a calmer level because of the Labrador genes. There are excellent watchdogs and companion dogs, too, when trained if you manage to get over their natural stubbornness. Labrakitas are well-suited for families with no children. They can be your hunting companion, your family companion, or simply just your companion on the couch. They can even adapt to apartment living just give them an hour a day of outdoor exercise, and they'll be good! Vizsladors can be quite independent, too, though, so patience is key in training them! They're not much of a shedder, but they sure are slobberers! Otherwise, they can be quite destructive and nobody wants that! Rottadors shed moderately, can stand up to 27 inches tall at the shoulder, and can weigh up to lbs. Because if the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in the country, the French Bulldog comes second for , at least. They're also one of the friendliest breeds you'll meet in the bunch! They can be playful, too but not expend as much energy as a purebred Labrador. If you're not on an adventure, though, try to keep them busy still. Otherwise, they'll look for something to get busy with themselves, and you may not like it! Combining them with a Labrador, an equally athletic breed, brings about a mixed breed that naturally needs lots of active time. Greyadors also need structured training and physical activities. Be wary because, at times, they can get pretty stubborn too! Their sizes also make them a little clumsy, so apartment living is definitely not the best idea for a Labrador Corso. Depending on which parent they take the most after, their ears can either be floppy or erect. Weekly brushing is often necessary for their thick and dense coats, and just like their Labrador parent, they don't mind taking a few splashes in the pool every once in a while! They range from medium to large size with short, straight, dense fur that can be red, black, brown, or sable in color. And just like their parent Basenji, Labrasenjis don't bark—they yodel! If you haven't heard how Basenjis yodel, check out this video! Their sizes range from medium to large dogs, and they don't require much grooming. Rhodesian Labs are also energetic , but one thing about them is they tend to eat more than what they really require, so you may want to be strict about that portion control! They also love to swim. Good thing they have water and weather-resistant coats! But running around may be the easiest activity to keep them fit, so urban or rural living is your best bet to keep your German Wirehaired Lab happy. They do well in a hot or cold climate, thanks to their thick coat. The catch is they do shed a lot, so frequent brushing is required. Bassadors love the attention , though, especially from their favorite human, so they don't mind getting brushed on a regular basis. This means they are not just casual pets—they require tasks and work to be done. They also do well in sporting activities, so make sure to engage them in one to maximize their fullest potential. The American Bullador is a stocky mix breed of yet another two purebreds loved by the American population. Like any other Lab mix, they require at least a weekly brushing as their short but dense hair can still be prone to matting. Their nails are also hard and tend to grow fast, so trimming them every 2 to 3 weeks might be necessary. American Bulladors also tend to be stubborn; you gotta have a lot of patience and positive reinforcements on hand to train them. Corgidors look just like a Labrador but with shorter legs which make them the cutest! Because of their size, they don't mind small living spaces, but they still do require regular exercise every day. They're also very patient with children and are quite the people-pleaser too! Just look at how fluffy those furs are! The Labernese is very much affectionate with their family, so much so that they can get anxious when left alone on their own. Joggers in the family can enjoy the company of a Labernese for their everyday run since this large mix breed also needs its daily exercise. Cavadors are naturally intelligent and affectionate, thanks to the similar personalities of both parents. Plus, they also do extremely well with kids! Just watch out for what and how much they eat because they are also prone to gaining too much weight! Plus, their high activity requirements can keep them warm even during the chilly season! Alaskan Maladors are intelligent and easy to train, yet they may not be the best option for first-time dog owners. They also have a high prey drive and tend to bark or howl a lot. They sure need strenuous activities to keep them entertained, and they can also excel in agility competitions if trained. Physically active owners will find the best companion ever with Chesadors. But surprisingly, they are not quite as active as their dog parents. They still need to be kept entertained. Otherwise, they'll probably dig holes around the yard. Lab'Aires are the offspring of two heavy-built, medium-sized dogs, so the same can be expected of their size and stance. They are seasonal shedders, so moderate grooming is only needed for this mixed breed. They can be average barkers, only to alert you when there's a stranger or danger in place. However, they also tend to shed a lot, and they can be notoriously chewers, too, especially when bored. The thing is, New Labralounds are high maintenance, grooming-wise. They will need five to six times brushing per week, and a pin brush and de-shedder will be your best friends in doing this. They are also easy to care for and are low-maintenance, but socializing them at a young age is important. Because of their size, they surely need a large space to wander about. They can weigh up to 80 lbs so a large living space is ideal, especially since they love running and playing around. Labrasetters also love the company of children, other pets, and their family! Because both parent breeds are intelligent, Kelpadors are also clever and eager to please. However, depending on who they take on after the most, they can be either friendly or reserved. Nonetheless, if you ever come across this unique mix, don't pass on the chance! They are also perfect for new dog owners, so there is nothing to worry about. So it's no surprise that some breeders thought of mixing these two together. And what a winning combination Labratzus are! Combine a Shih Tzu's spunky attitude and a Lab's easy-going personality, and you'll get the perfect companion dog for your family, especially kids! Another perfect companion dog for families who love to snuggle. Just don't expect them to be watchdogs, though. They are too friendly that all they might do only is befriend strangers! They are also energetic and quite affectionate with their families. Appearance-wise, they can stand up to 27 inches tall and weigh 75 lbs when fully grown. And while they do well in families with kids, it's best if the kids are a bit older and know how to interact with a dog properly. Some of the adjectives to describe them are brave, strong-willed, and devoted. They are also intelligent with excellent judgment, that's why they also make the best family guard dogs. Because of this, Schnauzadors can also come in varying sizes depending on their dog's parent. Although they are friendly, Schnauzadors can also get too bossy at times. They'd always try to show other dogs especially same-sex who's the boss! However, they still make for great family dogs, especially for children and older people. Never mind the sit, stay, roll over command. They just gotta watch that stranger passing by the window! It's hard to guess what temperament their mix will turn out; it depends on which parent they will take after the most. One thing's sure, though, they are loyal through and through and will love their humans for as long as they can. These Labrador mixes, however, need an experienced dog owner who can confidently show them who's the alpha. Otherwise, they'd decide for it themselves, and you may have a hard-time training and disciplining them! They're family-oriented dogs who love playtime! However, early socialization is still important, even how friendly this breed is, so make sure to introduce them to new people and animals. It's not advisable to leave them on their own as they can get too anxious alone. They are generally healthy Labrador mixes too, but also with the potential for weight gain, so watch out for what and how much they eat! Although they are a fairly active breed, they can do well in smaller living spaces and only require 30 to 45 minutes of daily exercise. Personality-wise, they tend to take after their Plott Hound parents, so they may be a little reserved around strangers compared to their Labrador parents. German Shorthaired Labs only require moderate grooming, and they are actually quiet and just observant most of the time. Don't get intimidated by their size and appearance; they'd still be a perfect fit for first-time owners—just as long as that owner loves physical activities as much as this mixed breed. Depending on the other purebred they are combined with, a Labrador mix can be slightly larger or smaller than Labs themselves. However, on average, a Lab Mix can grow from 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 45 to 90 lbs. How can I tell if my dog is a Lab Mix? The best way to know whether your dog is a Labrador mix or not is thru DNA tests. There are available DNA test kits that you can purchase online that will not only determine your dog's ancestry but also their traits and possible health complications so I'd say it's worth giving a try! Do Lab Mix dogs shed? Labradors are heavy-shedders, so yes, Labrador mixes can be shedders too. However, some breeds like Poodles can somehow tone the shedding down when mixed with Labradors. Labradoodles, for example, are said to be non-shedders and a perfect match for dog owners with allergies. After reading all the information you need about this popular mixed breed, like the Labrador mix's life span, size, temperament, and health, I hope this article helps you decide which Lab mix is the best fit for you and your family's lifestyle. Related Articles:. Typical Lab mix traits The best Lab mix breeds are of course a matter of opinion. As with any purebred dog, it depends entirely upon why you want a canine companion. If you want a small Lab mix as a family companion then getting one who is crossed with a smaller, calmer breed is a good choice. But if you want a dog for sports or hunting then going with a Labrador crossed with another working breed is a sensible move. If you want a dog to have a go at agility, then a Collie cross is a great place to start. Lab mix dogs are often found in shelters or Lab rescue centers. What is My Lab Mixed With? Labrador mix bred dogs can often look very different to either of their parents. And in some cases, if the parentage is unknown it is entirely possible that they have more than one breed in their genetic makeup. If you are rescuing an older dog, the only way to know with reasonable certainty where your mixed breed dog came from, is to order a DNA test. This will give you as many as three or four generations back, and give you a great idea what breeds went into your wonderful dog. They are fairly rare, as Afghan hounds are not terribly numerous. Your Afador puppy is likely to grow to be fairly large, as both Afghan Hounds and Labradors are reasonably tall. You could therefore end up with a dog with medium to long fur, which will require regularly grooming. Afghan temperaments tend to be more aloof than that of Labs, with less boisterous enthusiasm for everyone they meet. Basset Hound Lab mix Another rare cross but one which has great appeal to some people, is the Bassador. They are on average around 14 inches tall as adults, with body proportions suiting a larger breed of dog and shortened legs. Working line Basset Hounds tend to be in far better shape than their show bred cousins, and this is where you should start your search if you have your heart set on a Bassador. Border Collie Lab Mix Border Collies are incredibly intelligent dogs, who work very well with their owner if properly trained. Loyal to their families, and fairly indifferent to everyone else. They are quick to learn and can be taught a mind boggling range of activities through positive reinforcement training. The show dogs tend to be the least driven, although still high energy dogs that require a lot of stimulation. Like Labs as puppies they can be very nippy. This can express quite strongly around children, as they attempt to herd them around. They are not generally therefore recommended to families with very young kids. They do however often make excellent pets when older for active, busy families who enjoy training and working together. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are without a doubt some of the friendliest little dogs in the world. They are charismatic, fun and loyal. They also have a fairly good average lifespan of 11 years. However, there are a couple of big, scary health problems associated with large numbers of this breed, so be very careful and do a lot of research if you are thinking of bringing one into your home. Health problems impacting a vast quantity of these little dogs include mitral valve disease , a heart problem which causes early death, and syringomyelia. This is a neurological problem caused by the size and shape of their skulls, not allowing their brain and brain stem to be properly accommodated. Two very popular breeds of gundog with a lot of similarities, this is one of the cross breeds where can be fairly confident of the type of Lab mix you will be getting when you bring home your puppy. Goldadors are very popular seeing eye dogs. They are well known for being intelligent, fast learners and very co-operative with their handlers. Like their Golden Retriever and Labrador parents, they tend to have very friendly temperaments and love spending time with their human family. Golden Retrievers are similarly sized dogs to Labradors, but with a far longer and wavier coat. Most Goldadors seem to have shorter fur more like the Lab parent, but this is not guaranteed. Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to be fairly calm and aloof as adults, and require a lot of dedication to socialisation when they are young due to potential nervousness around strangers and guarding tendencies. Due to their size, they are not really recommended for homes with young children or frail adults. Bernese Mountain Dogs are very large, growing up to 28 inches tall and weigh up to pounds. They also have a long coat, which requires a lot of grooming to keep in a good condition. Unfortunately like many extra large breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs do not have very long life expectancies, averaging around 8 years long. When looking at longevity size is a big factor, and giant breed dogs regardless of whether they are mix bred or not will have shorter lifespans. You could therefore expect to see your puppy potential live fewer years than the average purebred Lab. They are utterly beautiful dogs, and if well managed can make wonderful companions. Labmaraner The Weimaraner is a beautiful dog, and an intelligent one too. Like all members of the gun dog group he has been bred with co-operative working in mind. Although he tends to be slightly less people focussed in general than your average Lab. This means that they are not as obsessed with greeting everyone when you take them for a walk. However, they can also be a little harder to engage in the training process and in some cases be even more driven than a Labrador. Like Labs, Weimaraners can also be prone to separation anxiety when left alone for long periods. Labradoodle Labradoodles are the most popular Labrador Retriever designer dog breed at the moment. A Labradoodle will not necessarily be a non-shedding dog, and may require some extreme grooming or very regular visits to the poodle parlour in order to not become matted. Pitbull Lab Mix The Pitbull Lab mix should be a great family dog, full of energy, with a short, easy care coat. Rottador or Labrottie Rottweilers crossed with Labradors are known as Labrotties. Or Rottadors. And they can be incredibly beautiful and dedicated companions to their families. Rottweilers can be up to around 27 inches tall, with big heads, deep chests and well muscled bodies. They are powerful dogs and need commitment to positive training from day one from their families in order to understand how to behave in their homes. Rottweiler temperament is also quite different to that of your average Labrador Retriever. There is no way of knowing which of his parents your Labrottie will take after. Rottweilers are a guarding breed. Extremely loyal to their family, but known to be wary of strangers and unpredictable around children if improperly socialised and managed. Your Labrottie puppy must be very well socialised, just as you would with a pure guarding breed dog. Make sure he has regular positive contact with people of every age, and is familiar with things like beards, hats and unusual items of clothing. Springador Springer Spaniels crossed with Labs are often referred to as Springadors. They can make fabulous pets or working dogs, but can have the extremes of both breeds. They are not for the inexperienced or inactive owner. Springers are very lively dogs with an incredibly high prey and hunting drive. They benefit from positive reinforcement training from an early age. In general Springers have great temperaments. However, there are some working lines which have nervous aggression problems and fixations on light chasing. Make sure that you meet the Springer parent to ensure that they are confident and not agitated. English Springer Spaniels tend to be smaller and lighter than Labs, with a longer coat. Springadors often have shorter coats, and can look a lot like a slightly shaggy black Lab with a few white markings. Lab Mix Temperament When you buy a mixed breed dog, their temperament will be a product of their varying lineage. They could end up with any mixture of the two lines temperaments, or something completely different. Make sure to meet both parents to ensure that they are confident, friendly characters. If both lines are happy, loving dogs then the chances are good that your puppy will be the same. Photo kindly provided by N Pappalardo. If your Labrador is a known cross, then you can make an educated guess that he could be anywhere between the average sizes for those breeds. However, it not always the case. And with a Labrador mixed with unknown other dogs, then they really could be any size at all. The Labrador element to their genetics does not limit their growth. Nor do they mean that they will definitely have any specific height to them. There will potentially be huge variation even within the litter. I grew up next door to a family who had two Labrador x Terriers from the same litter. One looked exactly like a Labrador in every way, except she had very short legs. The other was Labrador height but with a totally different shape. If size matters to you, then a purebred puppy or dog over 18 months old might be a better choice. Lab Mix Health Mix breed dogs can still be susceptible to the diseases carried by their parents. Especially if those diseases are common in both breeds. The Labrador parent should have a clear eye test of less than a year old. They should be PRA clear, and have a lower than average hip score. For full health testing for Labs check out this article. The other parent may also need a clear eye test, and a good hip score. The most important thing is to pick a puppy whose parents have both had all of the health tests relevant to their own breed. And whose personalities you would be happy to see replicated in your pup. Alternatively, look for a rescue dog that you have met and fallen in love with yourself. Should a Lab Mix take after their Labrador Retriever parent, they will be a playful, energetic, and affectionate dog that loves their families. Labrador Retrievers are energetic dogs that tend to have an extended puppyhood. They are also social, friendly, and tend to be patient and gentle with children. This makes them fantastic pets as they also tend to get along well with other dogs and even other pets, despite their retriever tendencies. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. You still want to ask questions about the other parent breed as they are bound to introduce some potential quirks of their own. Although Labs are happiest with room to run, they adapt well to apartments as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and affection. They also do well in most climates, but do not like to spend long stretches of time alone. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? As with purebred dogs, health often depends on reputable breeding practices. Just as a mix can inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could also inherit all of them or some combination of them. From the Labrador side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Labrador Mix include patellar luxation , hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cataracts. The other parent breed will likely introduce some other potential conditions to this list. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Labrador Retrievers are highly trainable dogs that can be a good fit for owners of any experience level. First-time owners may have a challenge at first with their high energy and exuberance, but tend to be successful. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. If the other parent breed tends to be more challenging to train, then you will want to be prepared for that potential and be ready to enroll in puppy training classes if you need them. A Lab Mix can end up with a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should they inherit the Labrador Retriever coat, it will be short and will shed throughout the year with heavier shedding as the seasons change. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath keep a Lab coat healthy. Trimming nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Because dental care is often overlooked, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth every day or using an enzyme toothpaste daily in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed helps prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Labrador Retrievers are high-energy working dogs that need plenty of exercise and a job to do to be happy. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you should expect a Labrador Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. Even if the other parent breed sits in a lower activity range, you will still want to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog should they take after their Lab parent. Fully-grown Labrador Retrievers tend to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. Labs generally live for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Featured Labrador Mix Article.

Our dogs have mellow, affectionate, and playful temperaments, love water, and especially children. They are living as trustworthy family members, as emotional support dogs, service dogs, and medical alert dogs around the world! Content Link Block Polarbear is our Name. Or perhaps just looking for the total package in a dog? Health and longevity remains the foundation of all we do. Take for example, the standard German Shepherd dog as seen in this photo: View fullsize …Dogs bred with these traits often end up with crippling disabilities and premature death. This is so inhumane. The focus of our kennel, on the other hand, is to produce dogs with straight backs, broad heads, and short coats, as in the photo of Polarbear's foundation sire, Shack Von Hammer below. Aside from their magnificent appearance, Polarbear White Shepherds are calm, sociable, and affectionate. They are gifted empaths and comedians at heart. Their goofy personalities and love of children make them perfect nannies for even the youngest child. They love water, retrieving frisbees, and diving into the occasional swimming pool. What kind of dogs do all that? And they are living fulfilled lives, as medical detection dogs, service dogs, and family and companion dogs in nearly every state in the United States! World Map of our Clients Before leaving, you might like to click on some of our pages. Our "Words of Warning" for those purchasing a purebred dog for the first time on the internet is a favorite. Just remember this quote…. No amount of training or special food will fix a problem dog. If you want to view videos of our dogs, check out our Youtube Channel page. If you appreciate our breeding philosophy and love what we do, do let us know by becoming a fan! Raising dogs for you and your family. Call or text .Every breed has different requirements, whether the space they must have or the amount of exercise they need. If you are not certain yet, check out our essential White German Shepherd breed info to find out everything about the White German Shepherd. How to find White German Shepherd puppies for sale? When buying a puppy, it is important to consider not only the pet but also the breeder. Because a responsible breeder will ensure their dogs come from the strongest bloodlines and have the best start to life. Ask about the health and temperament of their White German Shepherd pups as well as their living environment. But also find out about the breeder's practices and commitments. A good breeder will be happy to answer everything before you decide. After all, they will want to ensure that their dog goes to a good home. When you have done your research and got all the info you need, you can then choose the right breeder with confidence. To help ensure you choose a responsible breeder, all the White German Shepherd kennels you see listed here are verified by Pets4You. You will also find that the best breeders will provide a guarantee with their dog. This information, and more, is available on the breeder's website within Pets4You. Browse through our dog breeder directory with complete breeder profiles and current puppies for sale to find your dream dog. Disclaimer It is the duty of every person that is considering buying a puppy or dog to confirm all the information provided to them by the breeder is accurate. Pets4You makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the condition of any dogs offered for sale, the standards or practices of any breeder, the quality of their canines, or the accuracy of any information contained within our site. Pets4You does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee a particular kennel, breeder or dogs listed on the Pets4You website. For Buyers. Please leave this field empty. Got our girl home to Minnesota. Little freaked out by the snow and the zero temps. She is doing great. She is a lovable sweetheart. Also fairly adventuresome. In and out of tight spaces outside and crawling over a pretty sizable and messy rock pile. Anyway, thank you. Tom Ziggy is awesome! My 3 yr old hugs and lays with him and he sleeps at the door of her room at night. Sara Thanks so much Doug. Proud to be the guardian of such joy. Thank you so very much, trust me when I say he will be loved and cherished. Take care. Sharon The puppy I received, 8 week old female Legacy was beyond my expectations, she was everything I was promised and more! Everyone who meets her loves her, she is the sweetest smartest thing. She is excelling in her obedience and her service dog training, I am very blessed for that. Thank you Doug! John B. Wells — former Coast to Coast talk show host, now at Caravan to Midnight. Our dog Luna is all you said she would be and more,beautiful,intelligent,we love her so much! Thank you, Heidi P. She is fantastic! We got him from you back in July .Ghost is the most amazing dog. He is the most loyal, the most loving, protective, and smartest dog I have ever known. Have a great day! The puppy has been started on its vaccination series, dewormed, vet checked, and given lots of T. First you must find your foundation. I started thinking about how nice it would be to have a German Shepherd Dog like when I was young. I remember how pretty they were so I told Jeffrey, "I want a German shepherd". He immediately went on the hunt. He loves that stuff. When Jeff started showing me the dogs he was finding I couldn't believe what I was seeing. It is so hard to find a old fashion discerning yet calm, straight back shepherd these days. We found out the show dog people, changed the appearance of the Shepherd. It all looks legit so we bought a couple. I didn't care how much money or time I had in them or how great their paperwork said they were I had enough. I couldn't take it anymore. It was not what I wanted. Next Shepherd dog we found was the working line. We got a beautiful pup we called Titus. When we went look at him as a pup I mean he shined. He was like his owners shadow. He never got tripped on and moved like the wind. I knew that this dog had a high prey drive but I didn't know he didn't have an off button. We loved him but at a year old we placed with a man who lived on an 80 acre farm. Lord Jesus, what happened to the big beautiful straight back family farm German Shepherd Dog? I mean who would have thought? How hard could it be? But nowadays, what we were wanting was the minority. Most shepherds now either have the curved back that they swear is healthier, tested and winning everything. That is how they separate them now. They need a job, a serious job. They to hyper and to prey driven for what I wanted. Thanks to The Good Lord Jeff had ask me several times if I would be interested in the white shepherd. I said, "That is exactly what I want. We bought off different litters. These dogs are mentally smart. They are like a human with fur. They will understand your language and they learn everything very very fast. You should just be able to tell them once or twice and they get it. They potty train very fast! They are clean dogs. Most GSD tend to be wary of strangers or aloof, but not ours. Their drive to retrieve things makes them a companion for entertainment. They love kids. Who better to trust watching over the kiddos than the trusted loyal White Shepherd. I know my own and my own know me. According to an article in USA Today, 1, sheep fell off a cliff to their deaths in Turkey in .One sheep fell, so the others followed suit and jumped. In the end, sheep died. The ones that survived only lived because they were cushioned by landing on top of their fellow herd members. As a child growing up in church, I remember seeing a picture of Jesus with a lamb wrapped around his neck. As I grew older and visited more churches, I remember seeing similar pictures at a lot of places. I never questioned the image. The Bible is clear that God is our shepherd, and we are the sheep of his pasture, so I assumed the image demonstrated that biblical truth. However, several years ago while I was attending seminary, the image of the lamb wrapped around the neck of Jesus was explained to me. Because sheep tend to stray and will also follow wherever they are led, shepherds often had to discipline lambs that would stray from their shepherd. The shepherd would use his rod to break the leg of a wandering lamb. After binding the break, the shepherd would carry the lamb on his shoulders while the wound healed. If the lamb struggled and fought, it would quickly realize that the broken leg wouldn't allow it to flee. The lamb learned during the healing process that the shepherd could be trusted. The lamb needed the shepherd to provide food, transportation and protection. Once the wound was completely healed, the lamb was fiercely loyal to the shepherd and wouldn't stray from the shepherd's leading. A few years ago a news story broke about Shrek the sheep. Shrek was a Merino sheep who lived in New Zealand. Shrek became famous because he managed to avoid being captured and shorn for six years. His wool continued to grow and thicken, and his eyes were eventually hidden behind the thick coat. Shrek dodged the sheering by hiding in caves and running from his master. Once Shrek was finally captured and shorn, he carried 60 pounds of wool on his body, nearly six times the average amount. The wool on Shrek's body was enough to produce 20 men's dress suits. It's easy to see why the Bible compares us to sheep. We often follow the crowd, even when it leads to our own demise. We stray from the shepherd who loves us and seeks to protect us. We don't appreciate when God disciplines us. But if we surrender to him we learn through the discipline that God can be trusted. We are often like Shrek the sheep as well. We hide from God, clinging to the things that need to be shorn from us. We become weighed down with the burdens God could easily remove from us. The Bible also shares with us that God anointed his people with oil just as the shepherds anointed the heads of their sheep with oil. This wasn't just a symbolic ritual. Sheep are easy targets for flies, lice and ticks. A sheep that was not covered in oil on his head could easily become the victim of infestations of these pests. However, it wasn't just a nuisance. Bugs would crawl through the ear canal of the unoiled sheep and nest in its brain, eating away at it. The pain from the bugs would be so severe on the sheep that the sheep would bang his skull on rocks and against trees to ease his suffering. The sheep could break his own skull seeking relief from the brain-eating parasites. When God offers to anoint us with his oil, it means he offers us protection from the parasites of this world that seek to eat away at us. If we hide in caves, or jump off the proverbial cliffs of this world, dodging his anointing and protection, we may become victims of this world. We may become so filled with pain that we hit our heads against rocks to ease our suffering. God seeks to shepherd us through this life. Oftentimes that is through discipline, sheering or anointing. But it is always with love, and it is always with our best interest at heart. He is our shepherd. He can be trusted when we surrender to his leading. Jamye Lanning Duncan is a curriculum writer and has served as a minister and teacher throughout North Carolina. She holds an Master of Divinity in Christian education and a Bachelor of Science in elementary education. She is married to Dr. Hunter Duncan, and they have two children, Katherine and Cameron. For six television seasons Bullet played in episodes of the Roy Rogers show called Bullet the Wonder dog. Bullet was fast enough to keep up with the camera shots of Roy Rogers galloping on trigger in pursuit of something. Bullet was an exceptionally smart dog. He did everything a good dog would do. Rin Tin Tin Rin tin Tin is a story of a dog who went from rags to riches. He was an orphan from world War 1 and was found by Mr. Lee Duncan. Mr Lee trained Rinty to do tricks and to do silent picture work for dogs. Rin Tin Tin immediately was a big success. He was responsible greatly for the increasing popularity of the German Shepherd breed as family pets.

No matter how well-behaved or trainable your pup is, she needs to be contained outside, as much to protect her from other dogs as to ensure she obeys you. Check the collar often; you should always be able to fit two to three fingers comfortably underneath it. These anti-pull devices are particularly useful for wrangling energetic puppies and are an excellent training tool if your dog comes from a breed with a reputation for pulling or unruly behavior. Nevertheless, growing puppies need to be kept safe, and teaching your dog to love her crate—without ever using it as a punishment—can help with the process of house training, in addition to offering your dog a space where she always feels safe. To select a food, remember that dog foods list their ingredients in order of most to least prevalent. Thus a dog food that lists chicken as its first ingredient contains more chicken than any other ingredient. Optional: puppy supplements. Any high-quality dog food will contain all of the ingredients you need to keep your puppy healthy, but a multivitamin can help you ensure your puppy stays healthy for the long-term. The vaccines your dog needs, and which additional vaccines are recommended based on your location and lifestyle. Puppies like to soil the same place over and over, but by reducing the smell, you decrease the likelihood of frequent accidents Puppy pads for when your puppy must be contained, and you want to prevent the potential damage of an accident Optional: a carpet steam cleaner or spot bot to quickly eliminate messes Sure, a shopping spree right after you get your puppy might feel like a financial nuisance. Having everything you need before you need it, though, can help you avoid last-minute pet store trips and unexpected expenses. Proper care for the Poodle will involve many aspects that will all work in combination to maintain excellent health and promote learning and good behavioral habits. It is important to establish a foundation of proper care during the puppy stage that will carry over throughout the Poodle's life. We will discuss: The items that you should have to care for a Poodle puppy Details on the 5 most important tips for proper care - Feeding, house training, offering the right amount of exercise, grooming and how to offer a healthy environment. Toy Poodles and Mini's will be puppies for the 1st year; standards mature at a somewhat slower rate and are considered to be puppies until the age of 2 years old. During this time, much care is needed for both physical growth and mental development. Bringing your new Poodle home is not as simple as just picking up your new family member from the breeder. Good care involves planning ahead. It helps to have all needed items well in advance so that you can focus on the puppy without having to rush out for a needed supply items. One of the most important elements to be aware of is that no matter what the puppy has been fed since he or she began eating solid food, you should have the exact same brand on hand. Quickly switching foods can cause upset stomach and other issues…and in the case of a puppy it can be the cause of hypoglycemia. A slow change must be made. If you opt to go with a different brand or to home cook, have enough of the 'old' food on hand for several weeks, as well as the 'new' so that that you can make gradual changeover. A quality dog bed — A new puppy will feel stress going to even the best of new homes. This is why making sure that you have a nice, soft, comfortable dog bed is important. You should show your Poodle that this is the area in which he can rest, sleep or just get away from noise when things seem to overwhelming. If you will be leaving your puppy home alone during the day, it is best to have the bed placed in the area where he will be staying. A gated off section of a room or inside a canine playpen works well. The entrance to this can be left open when you are home with your puppy can of course, closed off when you are away. In this way, the puppy will become accustomed to the area. If you will be home with your puppy, place this in the corner of room that is frequently used but not chaotic. Dogs like to have their own quiet spot, but not feel isolated. Walking and ID accessories — Along with a retractable leash and a collar for ID purposes, it is highly recommended to have a harness for your puppy. Toy Poodles no matter what the age and all Mini and Standard puppies should have on a harness and not a collar when they are on a leash. When a leash is connected to a dog collar, this can create too much tension on the neck, which can cause collapsed trachea. The trachea windpipe is protected by rings of cartilage…when this happens, those rings collapse in, causing pain and breathing problems. These can be purchased at a pet supply store and come in many unique and interesting designs so that your Poodle always looks stylish. If you are not sure which harness would be best for your Poodle puppy, you may wish to look to both 'Accessories' and 'Clothing- Harness' in the Poodle Specialty Shoppe. A Car Safety Seat - Long ago cars did not even have seat belts for humans. But now, of course, we all know how many lives they save. The very same is true for dogs. Even if you are a conscientious driver, you cannot be in control of those who are driving near you. Be sure to secure your Poodle into a canine car safety seat. All it takes is 1 second of you having to quickly brake for your Poodle to go sliding off of the seat, completely unprotected. These are also great for dogs that are prone to car sickness. A raised booster seat will assist a puppy in being able to look out of the window which reduces motion sickness. However, choosing high quality toys that can stand up to continual chewing and hold a puppy's interest is better. Puppies are full of energy and filled with curiosity; having a good supply of toys at all times will be very helpful. Puppies that are in the teething phase will be experiencing discomfort and teething toys will help to sooth sore gums and offer a chewing outlet See also: Poodle teething Grooming Supplies - Poodle care certainly involves proper grooming. This includes nails, dewclaws, bathes, drying, wrapping, trimming, clipping and topknots. See also: Bathing a Poodle Clothes - Particularly for tiny toy Poodles, protection against the elements should be implemented as needed. During cold, icy winters the use of canine shoes or paw wax helps protect paw pads from ice melt chemicals and aids with traction. A sweater or cute vest can keep a small Poodle puppy from becoming chilled. During hot months, shoes help protect sensitive paws from hot surfaces. Bowls - Plastic bowls often contain heavy dyes that can cause staining on a Poodle's coat. In addition, tiny scratches that easily develop in plastic bowls can also harbor dangerous bacteria. It is best to use stainless steel or ceramic bowls for both food and water. Dishes should shallow so that a puppy can easily reach both food and water without bumping their heads or straining to reach. Toys and Mini's may like raised bowls. However, Standards - who are prone to bloat- should only eat and drink from bowls that are at floor level. Free feed until 3 months old leaving food out at all times and then give your puppy 3 meals per day plus healthy snacks. Please choose your food wisely; cheaper foods with fillers will not offer the proper nutrition needed to aid with the rapid growth that is associated with the puppy phase. You will find that if you reserve snacks and treats as rewards for training, housebreaking and command training will go smoother. Read more: Feeding a Poodle 2- Start house training right away, keeping in mind that it is your commitment to the process that will bring about success. Generally, housebreaking takes 2 to 3 months. If your Poodle puppy will be expected to use an outdoor area, do not focus too much on indoor training when the pup is home along, since it is difficult for puppies to learn 2 different methods. Do keep in mind that young puppies should not be over-exercised since it can interfere with growth plate development; however a daily 20 to 30 minute per walk is perfect. Walks allow a puppy to release pent up energy, it expands their view of the world and is a good staring point for socialization techniques and learning proper heeling. Poodles are generally very active dogs. Aside from a walk each day, this breed loves to run , jump and show off their agility capabilities. Playing catch, Frisbee or training your Poodle to jump through hoops will keep them in good health, both physically and mentally. See also: Poodle Exercise Requirements 4- Begin a routine of grooming and care. While many puppies will balk at the idea of being brushed or having teeth cleaned, doing these tasks on a regular basis allows a puppy to become accustomed to being touched and taken care of. Taking care of the teeth during the puppy stage is important since dental hygiene will affect the adult teeth that have not yet erupted. Read more: Poodle dental care 5- Limit stress, focus on fun. One of the most important elements of Poodle care is to offer a loving, safe environment. Puppies and dogs are sensitive to their owner's moods and the atmosphere of the house in general. Puppies can become easily stressed in noisy, chaotic homes. Puppies should be given a designated area to retreat and rest if feeling overwhelmed. Often, a gated off area that is secured when a pup is home alone, but the entrance is open when owners are home works best. Speak to your pup in a pleasant voice and remember that positive reinforcement for good behavior works much better than scolding for bad behavior. Take time to puppy proof the home, clearing the floors of any small items and stowing away shoes and other objects to higher ground. This should be done before bringing a puppy home but also on a regular basis. See also: What it means when a Poodle puppy shakes - If a Poodle is suddenly shivering, you'll want to look to these top reasons. Poodle Winter Care - Everything you need to know about caring for your Poodle during the wintertime. Other Articles: Apricot Poodles - This is a super popular coat color. Details and photos. Black Poodles - Another gorgeous color. Poodle tear stains - Putting to rest the old myths on what works. A list of the most effective at-home treatments to remove stubborn stains. Poodle hair tangles - Due to the nature of the curly coat, tangles are not uncommon yet should be removed as soon as possible with a method that does not affect hair growth. Are You a Member Yet? When you sign up to become a Member of the site, this allows you to receive a friendly notice when new pages of information have been added. Always something to help keep your Poodle happy and healthy. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. The 6 Best Types of Toys for a Poodle Overview If you think of dog toys as needing to serve as tools to meet a Poodle's needs, you may be surprised at how amazingly helpful they can be. The right toys can help a great deal with everything from teething woes, to negative behavior associated with boredom.In addition, toys can serve as a method of creating a closer bond with your Poodle, encourage activity in an otherwise sedentary dog, and even boost a Poodle's brain power. Here we will take a look at the 6 types of toys every Poodle should have to meet a wide variety of canine needs. Teething begins by 3 to 4 months old and lasts until the 7 to 8 month mark. During this time, there are incredible amounts of itching and most puppies feel some level of discomfort. This causes an overwhelming need to chew to soothe those teething woes. For these reasons, one of the best things that you can do is find the right toys for your teething Poodle puppy. Qualities of effective teething toys: The oral sensations that a puppy feels can move from moment to moment. Discomfort waxes and wanes. And itching can come in waves. So, toys need to be very versatile. The best toys will have: A variety of surface textures. Cloth, rope, and hard rubber should be available to meet chewing urges at any one particular time. Rope toys are especially helpful, as the twisted strands are good 'scratchers'. Small nubs. This is of particular importance; tiny nubs work to massage gums which helps the pup feel better. A puppy needs to be able to manipulate the toy into different parts of his mouth. Proper sizing. This is most relevant to toy Poodles, since many dog teething toys are sized too big for a tiny toy's mouth. If a Poodle puppy cannot instantly find relief, he may move onto something else.Recommended teething toys: Below are our 1 most recommended toys for Poodle pups that are in the throes of teething. The first 3 are for toy Poodles, though larger options can be found for miniatures and standards. The Nylabone is just one example of great teething chews that are flavored to entice a puppy to mouth them and come in a wide range of sizes, to accommodate all Poodle varieties. If you do not see the images, try a refresh. On mobile, you may need to turn the screen horizontal to see all 4. And if this describes your Poodle, no doubt you have had a hard time finding the right toys that will stand up to aggressive chewing. A dog's urge to chew is not limited to toys; with this type of drive, nothing is off limits. If a Poodle is not happy with his toys, one of two things will happen: 1 the dog will move on to other objects in the house, which is not only destructive but also unsafe or 2 the dog will become irritable and stressed as he's unable to satisfy his urges. Qualities of the best toys for strong chewers: To meet your Poodle's needs, the goal will be to provide fun chew toys that are specifically designed to handle aggressive chewers. While no toy is literally indestructible, some come very close. The toy will need to: Be able to stand up to high bite force. Be safe - A great feature to look for is a color indicator that the toy has been chewed down too far. Some toys are guaranteed, meaning that if a color starts to show, you'll get a free replacement. Fun - If it does not have the right texture and pliability to feel good in a Poodle's mouth, it'll be of no use. Recommended toys for Poodles that are super aggressive chewers: For this, both Kongs and Doughnuts are the two best options, with Kongs being the best for toy Poodles images are below. Kongs are great because they come in a wide range of sizes that will be appropriate for toys, minis, and standards. These are color coded, with pink and blue for puppies, red for 'normal' adult chewers, and black is reserved for the strongest chewers. In other words, a puppy would never be able to bite down on a black Kong dog toy and an aggressive chewer could tear up a pink one. The 'classic' Kong is designed to be filled with treats or kibble, which draws a dog to it and encourages him to stay focused. If your Poodle likes to chew, but has not shown a history of shredding toys to bits, you may find that the Kong 'minimally stuffed' chew toys are well received. These are also great because they come in all sizes from small to large. Goughnuts are colored coded as well, with yellow, orange, and green for strong chewers PSI and black reserved for professional grinders at a whopping PSI. What is great about these is that they are guaranteed. Each has red in the middle. If you see even a tiny spot of red, you may return the toy for just the cost of shipping out a new one. There are 3 sizes as well; but these will be a bit too large for most toy Poodles. Toys are shown below. And in this sense, thinking of toys as 'stay busy' tools can make a huge difference in your Poodle's happiness level. When a puppy or dog is just sitting around without anything to do, he will reach a limit where boredom turns into frustration. And where monotony turns into depression. If your Poodle has been too bored, you may not even realize it until you hand over a super-fun, interactive toy and see him perk up. Alternatively, some Poodles are very expressive about how they feel. It must be noted that regular exercise plays a role in this as well. If your Poodle is not taken out twice per day for at least minute sessions, even the best of toys may not fix his woes. So, a good balance of getting outside for walks and offering the right toys during down-time is the best fix. Qualities of the best toys to fix boredom and keep a Poodle occupied: You'll want toys that will be perfect for both when a Poodle is home alone and also when you are home but cannot interact with your Poodle at the moment. These toys should: Allow a Poodle to play fully independently; you will not need to do anything else other than point out the toy if you are there. Call out to the puppy or dog. A huge aspect is that the toy interacts with the dog. In this way, playing is a two-way street. The dog noses the toy, the toy responds. The dog chews the toy, the toy reacts. This type of element can keep a dog busy for a long time, basically until he's completely tuckered out. Recommended 'stay busy' toys for Poodles: There ares some incredibly fun options. The Babble Balls toys are out of this world; these are super interactive toys that can keep a puppy or dog amused and busy for hours. There are 3 sizes small for toys, medium for minis, and large for standard Poodles. Also, there are two fun types. One lets out animal noises. So, as a Poodle touches the toy, engaging sounds like pigs, frogs, bears, birds, even other dogs speak to him. There are 20 different animal sounds in all. The other is just as wonderful. It lets out funny phrases such as 'Come here, puppy! There are 20 amusing, encouraging phrases in all. For both of these, the toys automatically shut off when not in use, so the batteries do not run out. The Look Who's Taking line of toys is super fun as well. There are over 15 different types of stuffed animals, and each one makes a corresponding animal noise. These are good sized quality toys that stand up to daily playing. The size of these toys range from 5" the baby chick to 7" the cow and a bunch in between. There is a parrot, frog, rooster, monkey, goat, lobster, and more. These toys are shown below. These serve two purposes in one swoop. As an added benefit, if you place your Poodle's food in this sort of toy on days that you are not home, it helps prevent bloat, a dangerous health condition fast eating is a common trigger , which is a top concern for standard Poodles and is always something to be aware of no matter what type or size dog you have. Qualities of great treat-release toys: There are a few aspects to keep in mind. For this type of toy to do its job, it should: Hold in treats enough that they are not released too easily, but at the same time allow a Poodle to smell them in order to trigger a response. Be designed to work with a variety of different dog treats so that you are not forced to purchase additional treats. Be made with safe materials. Be durable to stand up to daily use. Be easy to clean since you'll want to be able to rinse away food particles. Be sized correctly. It's not uncommon for owners of toy Poodles to have trouble finding treat dispensing toys for their tiny dogs, so for these Poodles, it must fit the needs of dogs 10 lbs. Recommended treat dispensing toys for toy, mini and standard Poodles: There are some great options for all Poodles images below. Busy Buddy makes two treat release toys. The barnacle toy is perfect for toy Poodles, even puppies. It is composed of 3 tiny separate spheres, so toy Poodle can easily mouth onto one of them at a time. If you like the looks of this one, but don't have a toy Poodle, no worries.The other type is the twist sphere, which is adjustable, so you can control how easy or hard it is for your Poodle to get to the treats. This comes in small for dogs 8 to 20 lbs. The IQ Treat Ball is a great toy for toy Poodles on the larger end, minis and standards; this is available in both 3 and 4 inch diameters. It's a neat little sphere that is adjustable and releases food as it's nudged which encourages a dog to move. The Bob-A-Lot is a good-sized toy that is best suited for mini and standard Poodles. This has a large chamber that holds a full meal, and its bright color and wobbly movements make eating fun. Distress and even panicking when owners are away is referred to as separation anxiety, and this is not uncommon with dogs. In fact, it may be even more so with breeds like the Poodle due to their instinctive sensitivity and close human bonding. So, while all toys are important in their own way, perhaps the one type that can make the most dramatic impact on a Poodle is a companion toy. These will mimic a living creature to become an instant friend. With this, a dog is no longer alone. In addition, it would be remiss to not mention webcam devices that allow you to interact with your Poodle when you're not there. These are quite amazing, though are not fitting for those on a tight budget. Qualities of best companion toys: There's no competition here and there's no comparing. The very best ones are Smart Pets; these are good-sized quality stuffed animals that emit a rhythmic, soothing heartbeat. This alone instantly swoops away heavy feelings of isolation. In addition, is an option to send out a comforting warmth. This is as close as you can get to giving your Poodle a companion without obtaining another dog, and these are just marvelous. Qualities of the best pet webcams: Not very long ago, there were some sparse choices for this; however, the features where quite limited. Now, there's some truly amazing devices. While these can be a bit pricey, if you really want to go all out and come the absolute closest you can to being with your Poodle when you're not with him, the webcam will: Have two-way audio so that you can both speak to your Poodle and hear any barking in response. Have a wide-angle view and night vision, so that you can clearly see your puppy or dog at all times and under any sort of lighting though it is always recommended to keep lights on for a dog that's home alone. Easily sync to your smartphone Hold a good number of treats, so that the interaction can be frequent and extended. Toss treats out with a tap on your phone, and at a good distance to make it clear that you're playing with your Poodle. Our 1 recommend companion toys and a super-neat interactive webcam are below. If you don't see the images, try a refresh. On mobile, you may need to turn your screen horizontal to see all 4. It's what they live for. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for your Poodle is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15 minutes, and it will mean the world. And do not discount older adults and even seniors. The need to hold onto bonds is stronger than ever. However, it's not uncommon for a Poodle to need something colorful and interesting to get really involved with a game of fetch. You'll want it to be durable and importantly the right size so that your Poodle can easily mouth it. Another option that is great to play on rainy days are puzzle games. With this, you work together as a teacher and student. You'll teach your Poodle how to nose levers and paw buttons to find hidden treats. There is something to be said about the Poodle ranking 2 in intelligence ; this is indeed a super smart breed. However, dogs are as smart as opportunity allows.For these, you'll want to pay attention to the level typically 1,2 and 3 or beginner, intermediate, and advanced so that the puzzle is doable. Recommended super-fun fetch toys and a fun puzzle game are below this one is level 2, but there are lots of options. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Bringing home a new puppy can be overwhelming especially when you go to the pet store and are faced with the many choices. There are so many different products it is hard to know which one is the right one. Which ones do you actually need for your new puppy? I have put together a list of product that I recommend with links to them to help you out at the bottom of the page. I am not an Amazon affiliate this is just a list to help you out. This can give you an idea on what to have on hand when your puppy comes home. I find it fun to shop for a new puppy myself but after talking to others I realized that not everyone is like me. I love the thrill of researching the best product for my new puppy and what works best for our household. I hope this list is a help to you when you are out shopping. You can get everything at once and have it when you bring your new puppy home or you can just get the basics and slowly add to your supplies on an as needed basis. No carpet! If you only have carpet you can go to Lowes or Home Depot and get a piece of linoleum remnant to lay down over your carpet. You can set it up in a main room like a family room or living room you or you can set this up without the fence in a small room like a bathroom or something similar. Some people prefer to go straight to crate training vs continuing to use the litter box. I do not recommend this set up unless you still have the litter box available for them to use. I like to use this set up until the puppy is completely house trained. This gives peace of mind that the puppy is not getting into trouble and creating bad habits that you will have to undo later. The litter box I use is from Petco. You can also use a plastic underbed storage container. This is also found at Petco. But it is bulkier to store once you are done with it. Any type of enclosure similar to this will work. Wire crate with a divider. As long as it is never used as a punishment and used correctly most dogs actually love their crates. A crate is a place that they can go to relax. It is like their den would be in the wild. A crate is a wonderful potty training tool as well. Dogs do not like to soil where they sleep. The crate should be large enough for the puppy or dog to stand up without having to hunch, lie on its side with legs outstretched, and turn around with ease. If it is then the puppy will simply use one end for its bed and the other for the bathroom. This is where the divider comes in handy. They will want to potty the minute they come out so this will become a wonderful opportunity for a potty training lesson. Every time they come out of the crate they immediately go to the potty spot and do their business. You then reward them with a treat or just getting excited and praising them works too. But it is important to make it comfortable for them. For the first few weeks I just use old towels or old baby blankets in the bottom of the crate. That way if they do have an accident in the crate it is easy to pull it out and toss a fresh one in. Once they are fully crate trained then you can get a bed to put in the bottom of the crate. I just plan to change it out and put a fresh one in every morning for the first few week so that no accident is missed and they are sleeping on a dirty bed. Can be purchased on the GNC website Collars and Leashes I like to get a double braided collar with a buckle instead of a plastic snap. I have used many different collars and this type seem to last the longest as well as be the most reliable. Basic Slip Lead - I recommend having a few of these around. I like to have one in my car or maybe hanging beside the front door for the moment that nobody wants to happen but is usually does. Someone opens the door and the dog slips out without the collar. Its nice to have around because it works for both a collar and a leash. Nylon leash - Just a basic nylon leash is good. Its all a matter of personal preference here. Whatever you prefer to hold. Leather training leash - Especially for a standard puppy I recommend getting a 6 ft leather training leash. They are wonderful and last a long time. Food and Water Bowls I like to get the stainless steel no tip water bowls right from the beginning so your puppy never learns how fun it is to play in their water and dump it. It is the blue bag with the husky on the front. You can buy this from Costco or Amazon. Chew Toys Puppies will chew! You can either provide them with acceptable things to chew on or they will find their own. I also try to keep at least one toy or bone in their crate. Elk Antlers My 1 recommended bone or chew toy is elk antlers. Antlers Last Forever! They are spendy but So Worth it because they last for months! Antler chews are natural, healthy, odor-free and long-lasting chew toys that will help keep your dog busy and out of trouble and will help to keep his teeth clean. I don't recommend rawhide bones because they can get soft and splinter when the puppies chew on them. I used to get cow hoofs for our dogs because they would just slowly wear away at them. And then their breath was horrible too! When I was pregnant and super nauseated I said enough was enough and banned them from the house. I really wanted to find a better alternative and was thrilled when I stumbled on the Elk Antlers. They are definitely a must have at our house. I would buy the split antlers for the first time to show them how yummy they are. They like chewing on the marrow best. After that I would just get the whole antlers as they last longer. I get mine from michiganantlerart. It does not stain, smell, or splinter. I learned a neat trick from a blog not long ago that I thought I would pass on. When it gets so small you worry about choking, take it away and let it dry then microwave it for seconds. Now it is safe again to give to your pet as a quick treat. This way there is no waste, and your pet enjoys every last bit of it. I like to have a few different types of rope toys available I like Kong Brand Toys as well. It is fun to go to Petsmart to Petco and look around at their toys and pick up a few of your favorites to try out. We keep a variety of different toys at all times and one will be a favorite for awhile than another. Best for: All ages, especially puppies Level of importance: Highly recommended Small dog owners are often guilty of neglecting to train their pint-size pooches, but Poodle parents make this mistake at their own peril. Considered one of the most intelligent breeds, an untrained Poodle may become bored, destructive, bossy, or high-strung. They want to learn, and they want someone to teach them. For successful training sessions, make sure to stock up on plenty of training treats to reward your pup. Training treats are generally bite-sized, allowing them to be easily carried and helping your pup stay slim as they work through training. Poodles tend to live well into their teenage years, and your dog deserves to have a safe, loving home with you for their entire lifespan. She got her first cat at 5 years old and at 14, she started working for her local veterinarian. Elizabeth spent more than 20 years working as a veterinary nurse before stepping away to become a stay-at-home parent to her daughter. Now, she is excited to share her hard-earned knowledge literally--she has scars with our readers. When not writing, she enjoys reading, watching all sports but especially soccer, and spending time outdoors with her family.Read more Advertisement. Temperament: Self-confident, friendly, and intelligent. Toy Poodle Appearance The only real difference between a toy Poodle and a standard Poodle is their height and weight. They share the same coat colorings, markings, behaviors as a standard-sized Poodle. The toy in their name implies that they are smaller than 10 inches and were created for companionship. This pooch appears squarely built and well proportioned. They will have black noses with very dark and dazzling eyes. Size Males should be between inches tall and weigh between pounds. Females should be between inches tall and weigh between pounds. Coat and Colors They come in a variety of colors so it can be hard to choose just one! These colors range from blues, grays, browns, creams, and other shades in between. However the most popular is the red toy Poodle and the black toy Poodle. As for their coat there is virtually no shedding — it is amazing for people who suffer from allergies. However, it will require more time and effort than other dog breeds. Without proper care their coat is prone to matting that can cause painful infections. This coat should be groomed every 4- 6 weeks. Poodles come in 3 different sizes and the toy size is the smallest of them all. They excel at agility and obedience competitions. Their curly coat is virtually non-shedding and great for people who suffer from allergies. Royalty liked to use them as warmers because of their fluffy coat. Toy Poodle Personality and Temperament The toy Poodle has a superb personality which explains their immense popularity. They are very adaptable and can thrive in an urban environment if given daily walks. If you are looking for a dog to have in your apartment this is a good pick as long as they still get outdoor exercise. Toy Poodles are companion dogs and will require companionship from you. If they are left alone for long periods of time they could develop separation anxiety. This is not a breed that is suitable to be left alone the entire day and will get anxious and possibly destructive if this happens. They are inquisitive and very trainable — they are eager to please and love working alongside humans. Due to their low aggression levels, they are a safe and curious breed to have around others. Their ability to socialize with other animals humans and children relates to their friendly nature. However, since they are very small, they could easily be hurt by another animal or young child. Unfortunately, they are, at times, too eager to sound the alarm, and their endless barking can quickly become a problem for both owners and neighbors alike. Thankfully, the toy poodle is highly intelligent, and with a little work and training, you should be able to rid your pooch of this annoying trait. This is a naturally athletic and active dog that will require lots of daily physical and mental stimulation. Just because they are a small dog it does not mean that they will like to lounge and lay on the couch all day. They have been bred to be more of a companion animal but they still yearn for exercise. Although the toy Poodle is an exceptionally friendly and loving breed, it is not recommended to place them in a household with small children due to their fragility. However, they do make excellent family dogs in households with older children. Caring for a Toy Poodle The toy Poodle will make a great companion or family dog for anyone that wants an intelligent and agile smaller dog. They will be a very rewarding and affectionate dog if you are willing to provide them with physical and mental challenges. When they are not challenged they can get destructive. Professional grooming will be required every couple of weeks and it is a very important part of owning a Poodle. Brushing will also have to be done daily to keep it from matting. As long as their requirements are met they should fit perfectly in a family with older children. Exercise Requirements Although toy Poodles do enjoy being athletic it is important to keep their small size in mind. Their size can make them prone to injuries if an owner is not careful. Around an hour of daily exercise is enough to keep them happy. You can keep this pooch even if you only have a small year. A fun exercise they would enjoy is being in water. They have a retrieving background so the water is a happy place for them. Number of Walks Per Day: 1. Grooming and Shedding One of the main reasons someone might be attracted to a Poodle is their minimal shedding allergy-friendly coat. However, this does come at a cost and this coat will require more clipping and maintenance than many other dogs. You should get accustomed to daily brushing and combing of their curly coat to keep it from matting. It is common for toy Poodle owners to keep their dogs coat short to save some time combing. If you are unfamiliar with grooming a dog with a coat like this you should set up a monthly appointment with your groomer. When feeding them and monitoring their growth you should keep in mind that males should be between pounds and females should be between pounds. You should be cautious with table scraps and treats since this could lead to obesity. A high-quality ingredient dog food should be chosen for your toy Poodle. Since they are a small and toy breed, they should be given kibble that is made especially for them. This kibble will likely have less fat and carbohydrates than the food you would feed a larger breed. However, there are some health problems that they can be predisposed to: Hip dysplasia.