little german shepherd puppies

Though, I'd say everything in the box is useful and your dog will enjoy it all. The hedgehog and rabbit tug toy are still her favorites after a few months! The poop bags are also thick and scented for those inconsistent BMs, and there are a good amount included that should last a couple months. I picked out a Goody Box. I sat on the floor and helped Reggie open it. He sniffed and pushed things around, then took off with the bunny! Every thing in it is useful for play, training and cleanup! I have told several people about the fun Goody Box. Thanks Chewy!! Definitely a need! I had this Goody Box sent to my little brother who got a new puppy - a white lab. He loved the toys and the treats. The teething rings are a favorite and the nutro training treats just right. The bunny and hedgehog add variety to her toy box, a must with a busy puppy with lots of energy. I'm hoping that Chewy creates a few of these over time so that we can order a box with new items soon. My dog loves these boxes with the variety you get. .The amount of poop bags received is a plus. So far, the quality to them is pretty good. Haven't had an issue or felt any discomfort in their use. Doggo hasn't taken a bath to test out the ducky brush, but it seems of high quality. I am happy with my purchase. The ducky brush is great for distributing oils in her short coat. She likes the PB treat better than the hickory, but both go over big. The teething rings are so helpful. And the sample of wipes has been fab for tidying little paws! Thanks for gathering such a great selection! This is the second time we got one when we brought home our new puppy and both times the boxes were packed with great stuff. The banner is super cute too! Has perfect little training treats. Chewing rings that the puppy absolutely loved. Adorable toys. A cute tub brush,poop bags and holder to put on leash, a welcome banner. A perfect welcome gift. We can get food auto-shipped to our doors with no hassle. And now they are on their way to changing everything we think about subscription boxes. You can add the Chewy Box to any order and give your furry babies an extra surprise. But you should really read this before buying Chewy Box for dogs. The Chewy Box comes with two treats and two to three toys, depending on which box you choose. Each box is themed and has a slightly different number of products available. But the good thing is that you will always know exactly what you are paying for when you check out. What Themes Are Available? Chewy has something that no one else gives you, the ability for you to choose. Right now, when you log in, all you can find is the Chewy Birthday Box. This box has a birthday cake treat, ice cream treat, teddy bear, and a cupcake treat-dispensing toy. But in the past, Chewy had different boxes for new puppy owners, adult dogs, small dogs, and large dogs. We hope that Chewy will expand on these themes soon. What Were Past Boxes Like? In the previous years, this dog subscription box contained all sorts of amazing things. There was a Chewy Holiday Box for every major holiday. They included things like special treats, themed toys to match the holiday. Heart stuffies, turkey-shaped squeakers, and Christmas cookies, to name a few. But Chewy also had fun themes for the seasons and life events. If you just adopted a puppy, there was a welcome home box. There were also boxes for training puppies and a toys-only box. You could get a Chewy Box to celebrate anything you can imagine. There was something for everyone. While most of these toys have a theme, there are also boxes with a mix of different toys. These mixed boxes have a great variety of chew toys, stuffies, and treats. Do The Boxes Change Often? Read this before buying Chewy Box for dogs; these boxes change often. Every year it seems that Chewy updates what boxes are available. New boxes mean that the fun can keep on coming, and your dog will never get bored. How Much Does It Cost? Instead, you pay for whatever package you choose when you want it. But if you are already buying pet supplies, you might as well add them all to the cart to maximize your purchase. There are no contracts to keep you tied into paying for unwanted boxes. Are There Customizations? So if your dog has allergies, there are no substitutions. But Chewy tries to help you out as much as they can. For each box, they have a complete list of all treats and toys inside. They even display all of the ingredients in the product descriptions to prevent accidents. Chewy even gives a size recommendation for each box. Grain allergies are widespread in dogs. It can make them itch, develop yeast infections, gassy stomachs, and even balding. And while giving dogs grain-free food has gotten a lot of bad press lately, there is a time and reason for it. And Chewy has thought of everything. In the past, they have had a grain-free option for dogs that includes grain-free treats, a toy, and food samples. We are excited to see what new options the Chewy treat subscription box has for this year. Are These Toys Durable? If you have a tough chewer, you will need toys that can hold up over time. Some Chewy dog toys are durable and withstand lots of chewing. And in the past, there have been Chewy Ballistic boxes. These types of Chewy boxes are perfect for tough chewers. However, there is a downside to this. So you can only ever get one package from Chewy. If you are looking for a dog subscription box for heavy chewers, you might want to go with another brand. Chewy treats are made right in the USA. There are no harmful ingredients and manufactured from top-quality materials. And most of the Chewy toys are made in the USA also. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. So you can feel good about the goodies that you give your precious puppies. Add-Ons Most of the subscription boxes out there have the option for add-on toys for a few more dollars. For example, if you consider the birthday box, it gives you suggestions for birthday toys and treats that complement your package. High-Quality Products Some cheaper boxes out there send you treats that are about to expire. Or the toys might have failed the quality inspection, so they get sent out in these subscriptions. When you invest in a Chewy Toy box, you are guaranteed to have only high-quality products. No treats are expiring soon, and all of the toys are of top quality. You will know your money is well spent when you buy from Chewy. Shopping For More If your dog falls in love with a product in the Chewy Box, you will want to stock up for the future. Luckily, all of the toys and treats are products that you can find on Chewy. This ability is a lot different than other subscription boxes. When your dog falls in love with a Chewy product, they are always available online to add to your next package. Is There A Guarantee? Chewy stands by all of its products. And if a product comes defective, then they will replace it for free. The only catch is that Chewy does not guarantee a toy is indestructible. When you order from Chewy, you get your items within days. The Chewy Box has so much to offer for everyone. Because we know that each one will be more amazing than the last. No contracts, cheap boxes, and fast shipping, what more could you want? Below is a Pinterest friendly photo…. Sharing is caring!

Finding blue Poodle puppies Blue Poodles have an interesting and popular fur color. This shade is an official color for Poodles of all sizes, but it can be hard to identify blue Poodles as puppies, because this shade takes up to 2 years to fully develop. Blue Poodles will be intelligent, energetic, and loving, just as any other shade might be. And, their grooming needs will be just as complex as any other color of Poodle. The Poodle is a popular working breed that also makes a favorite family companion. Poodles have been around for hundreds of years, originally working as retrieving dogs. Over time, Poodles were bred smaller to create Miniature and Toy varieties. And, many Poodles moved away from working, retrieving roles to become family companions and lap dogs. All three Poodle size varieties have a huge selection of colors. Solid shades range from a deep, dark black, to the lightest white, and everything in between. And, some Poodles will even express two colors in their coats. What Color is the Blue Poodle? The term blue is often used interchangeably with silver and grey when it comes to dog colors. But, blue Poodles are distinct from silver and grey Poodles. In fact, all three of these colors are individually accepted shades on the breed standard. And, each dog is unique. So, one blue Poodle might be a slightly different shade than another, or may have a different intensity of coloring on certain parts of their body. In fact, when they are first born, blue Poodles will have black fur. But, over the course of two years, this black fur will fade to a lighter shade. This process is the same for silver Poodles, but is much slower for blues. This gene is dominant, so puppies only need to inherit one copy in order to experience the associated pigmentation dilution. They will turn into a deep grey with a bluish tint. So, it can be extremely hard to tell them apart. The process of fading for blue Poodles happens quite slowly, so you might only notice very small differences when your Poodle puppy is ready to come home. Over time, these differences will become more obvious. Blue puppies will slowly change color, fading from a deep, strong black to a lighter shade. But, true black puppies will remain the same color until they begin to experience greying as a senior. Silver vs Blue Poodle Puppies Silver Poodles, like blues, will experience progressive greying throughout their early lives. So, they will start life as black dogs and will lighten to a completely different shade. However, despite this similar process, there is a difference between blue and silver Poodles. Silver Poodles will lighten a lot faster than blues, and they will transform into a much lighter shade. But, both types will have similar personalities and care needs. So, blue and silver Poodles can make equally great pets. Are Blue Poodles Rare? But, blue is not the rarest shade that Poodles come in, since the gene that causes this color is dominant. Certain recessive colors, like apricot and cream are more uncommon because puppies must inherit a copy of the appropriate gene from each parent. The more popular a shade is, the higher demand is for puppies. So, though litters of certain shades might be easy to come across, they can often have long wait lists. So, depending on where you live and which shades are the most popular near you, blue Poodle puppies could be hard to come across! Can Poodles Have Blue Eyes? Poodles have very dark eyes. Blue eyes are very uncommon and would be the result of mixed breeding or a health issue. So, they could have quite a few unpredictable traits. Most Poodles will have brown eyes that are very dark in color. Blue Poodle Health and Care The prorgessive greying gene has not currently been linked to any health issues. So, blue Poodles share the same hereditary health problems that any other Poodle can experience. Here are some of the major health problems that your blue Poodle might experience: Hip and elbow dysplasia. COM Blue Poodle temperament and personality Blue Poodles can be very energetic and playful, but they also have excellent guard-dog skills. Do Blue Poodles get along with other pets? Although Blue Poodles are very loyal to their owners, they can also get along well with other pets, particularly dogs. Blue Poodle training Blue Poodles need a firm but gentle hand when training. Blue Poodle exercise requirement Blue Poodles love to run and play. A Blue Poodle that lives a sedentary life can succumb to obesity and develop behavioral issues. Blue Poodle grooming and cleaning Blue Poodles are high-maintenance dogs. For their coat to shine, they need regular brushing using a pin or slicker brush. The Blue Poodle should get a haircut once every 6 weeks. Poodle hair can grow very fast and can become an issue when it comes to hygiene. If you want a show-ready Blue Poodle, you should take her to a Blue Poodle pet salon. What is a Blue moyen Poodle? Moyen is French for middle, but in dog terms, it refers to mid-size Poodles. Blue Moyen Poodles grow to about 14 to 18 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 33 to 42 pounds, putting them between standard and miniature Poodles. Blue Poodle puppies A Blue Poodle puppy looks no different from a Black Poodle puppy, and they only begin to show their actual color once they grow a bit older. However, expert dog breeders can use several methods to determine if a Blue Poodle is genuinely blue. What are the differences between a Black Poodle and a Blue Poodle? Blue Poodles look a lot like black ones, and it may be difficult for the untrained eye to detect a Blue Poodle unless it is standing beside a Black Poodle. Blue Poodles have a slate grey or gunmetal coat that distinguishes them from Black Poodles. Their face has a noticeably lighter grey coloring, whereas Black Poodles have the same shade of black all over their bodies. How much do Blue Poodles cost? Is Blue Poodle hypoallergenic? You can always ask a vet or a professional dog feeder for advice. In any case, your Poodle must get a balanced diet comprising of proteins, vitamins, and some essential minerals. Blue Poodle common health issues Poodles are famous for their gorgeous looks and low likelihood of developing major diseases. If you own a Blue Poodle or any other color in the breed, you should be on the lookout for the following issues. Bloat Bloat is when the pooch eats too fast and eats more than can be digested at one time. This results in a rapid and sudden rise of internal pressure, expanding the stomach and intestines. The symptoms include weight loss, excessive thirst, lots of panting, patchy hair loss, and even seizures. It causes adrenal insufficiency, leading to low blood pressure, vomiting, dehydration, loss of appetite, and weakness. But that coat also requires careful maintenance as it is prone to several diseases. Allergies Poodles may not trigger allergies in humans, but they have allergies of their own. The symptoms can include inflammation of their skin, intense scratching, and bald patches. Sebaceous Adenitis The sebaceous gland secretes an oily substance that protects the fur from becoming brittle and dry. In Sebaceous Adenitis, those glands become swollen and inflamed, causing them to produce thinner oil, leading to hair loss. In dogs that are prone to allergies, these mites cause itchy, inflamed skin and hair loss. This condition is called Demodectic mange. This condition disrupts the natural hormone balance, leading to diabetes, extreme thirst, urination, and hair loss. Blue Poodle lifespan Blue Poodles purchased from a reputable breeder typically live between 10 and 18 years. The costs associated with Poodles are high since they need special diets and haircare to keep their coat looking gorgeous. So, if you can, your Blue Poodle will thank you for adopting him or her and adoption can also help you save some money. These Blue Poodle mixes — also known as Blue Doodles — are getting increasingly popular due to their hypoallergenic coats. They also display some desirable characteristics not present in the Poodle breed. Blue Heelers, or Australian cattle dogs, are an intelligent canine breed known for herding cattle in the Australian outback. Mixing them with a Poodle gives you a beautiful and capable dog that is easy to train and has a striking, non-shedding coat. Blue Heeler Poodle Puppies may resemble a standard Blue Heeler from their coat color, but they have a more Poodle look. Full-grown Blue Heeler Poodle Mix can inherit the floppy ears of the Poodle or sport erect ears of the heeler. Blue Merle Poodle Merle is a gene modifier that results in the dilution of pigment in the pooch. Blue Poodle is a beautiful dog that loves nothing more than spending time with you. Blue Poodles are a very intelligent breed and can even learn tricks. However, this kind of pet requires commitment from its owners as the Blue Poodle has high grooming needs. If you have the time and commitment, then the Blue Poodle may be the dog for you. Related Questions Are Blue Poodles rare? Yes, Blue Poodles are pretty rare. Some even rarer colors such as red, Cafe au Lait, sable, and apricot cost much more. Is there a Blue Poodle? This greyish-black color is what we call blue. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Teacup poodles grow to be approximately 3 to 4. Tiny Toy Poodles are between 4. Toy poodles are the largest of the small breed at 6 - 10 lbs at adulthood. Toy Poodles are extremely intelligent and active. This combination of brains and beauty has made them a European favorite. Toy Poodles are easy to train and thrive on pleasing their families when learning new tricks or participating in dog sports. Poodles are a hypoallergenic breed perfect for all family types. Teacup and Tiny toy poodle puppies are for sale in a range of colors including Black Toy Poodles, white, cream, phantom silver, red, and Chocolate Toy Poodle puppies. We also Have the gorgeous and exotic Merle patterns! Merle Toy Poodles for sale. We want our Teacup or Tiny toy Poodle puppies to help your family feel whole! For questions about, don't hesitate to call Collett's at or email us at garygcollett gmail. Projected Adult Weight is 5 - 6 lbs. AKC Registered. Projected Adult Weight is 6 - 7 lbs. Projected Adult Weight 6 - 8 Lbs. Projected Adult Weight is 5 to 7 lbs. Projected Adult Weight 3 Lbs 5 oz. Don't let distance stop you from falling in love with one of Collett's Toy Poodle puppies. We are AKC inspected and approved. You can trust in our healthy, happy puppies! We want our loves to help your family feel whole! Nationwide shipping varies by location. For questions about international shipping, don't hesitate to call Collett's at or email us at garygcollett gmail. Message Us Today!

Map We breed High Quality Boxers. We want to ensure the best health in our pets, so we do the proper health testing. Puppies won't be affected by Arvc or Dm. Our dogs have great pedigree's. This is imperative to the breed and their health. We breed mostly for PETS and there is an interview process that we conduct. We are open to allowing Unlimited registration to a select few people. Our dogs are our family dogs and our babies! They are extremely well cared for. To fully understand what I mean you can follow us on Facebook to see updated pictures and family fun photos Johnston Boxers. If you are searching for a quality pet your in the right place. When people seek us out the number one compliment is "From your pictures, I could tell the puppies are very well cared for! You just know they are in a well kept home. Interview your breeders. Most of the time they end up calling me back because "they felt comfortable and trusted me. Which we are currently accepting. Please contact us if your are interested. Wishing you the best of luck in your journey to finding the best puppy! You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting a Boxer, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to Boxers". It's written in an easy-to-understand way but still has the expert knowledge to help any new owner successfully raise their Boxer from puppy to old-age. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon. If you can't find the perfect Boxer puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many Boxers young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos!

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. We have answers. What are some fun facts about French Bulldog puppies for sale near Joliet? French Bulldogs, also called Frenchies, are one of the top ten most popular dog breeds in the United States. They were originally bred to be an indoor lapdog for French workers in the 19th century. French Bulldogs are quite muscular, though they are a small size. These pint-sized pups love to play and show off their generous personalities. Some fun facts about French Bulldogs include their signature facial expressions. They have an unforgettable look with their short broad heads and bat ears. Frenchies also have an uncanny ability to make intimidating barks, but tend to be more bark than bite. With French Bulldog puppies for sale in Joliet, what is their coat like? French Bulldogs have a short, sleek coat that lies close to their body with little shedding. Typically, the coat is fine and smooth with wrinkles on the head, neck, and shoulders and is either brindle, fawn, white, or a combination of these colors. Their coat only requires minimal grooming and bathing as they produce less dander and hair than most other breed. If you have allergies and want a pup that won't irritate them, Frenchies are a great fit. What do Joliet French Bulldog puppies for sale eat? French Bulldogs typically enjoy a good quality kibble as their primary source of nutrition, as well as occasional treat foods like small, low-fat pieces of cooked meat and vegetables. To ensure they receive all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, a balanced diet should be provided and daily nutritional requirements should be met as advised by their veterinarian. A combination of wet and dry food is also beneficial to their overall health and well-being. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid giving high-fat snacks and treats to French Bulldogs as these can lead to obesity and other health problems. What are some essentials I should buy before getting French Bulldog puppies in Joliet? Before getting a French Bulldog, it would be helpful to have some important essentials on hand such as a bed, leash, and food bowls. You'll also want to prepare for any health issues with items such as flea and tick prevention and any necessary medications, as well as vet visits. Other items may include a brush for grooming, chew toys, soft treats, and a calming scent like lavender oil or chamomile to help relax your pup. You may also want to invest in a puppy training program to help your pup learn proper behavior and how to respond to commands. How fast do French Bulldogs for sale in Joliet grow? As French Bulldogs grow, they follow a growth pattern that can vary from puppy to puppy, but typically they reach an average height of 11 to 13 inches and an average weight of 16 to 28 pounds. Therefore, you can expect that your French Bulldog puppy should grow to a size that falls somewhere within these measurements. However, the exact size will likely depend on factors such as gender, genetics, and general health. It's beneficial to speak with your veterinarian for more personalized insight on your puppy's size expectations. How many minutes per day should I walk French Bulldog puppies near Joliet? It is important to ensure your French Bulldog gets enough exercise and mental stimulation on a daily basis. Generally speaking, a good goal would be to aim for 30 minutes of exercise per day. That exercise could include one longer walk or a few shorter ones. In regards to the actual amount of time you should spend walking your French Bulldog each day, the amount may vary based on the energy level of your specific pet. More active French Bulldogs may need up to an hour or more daily while the less active French Bulldogs could probably get by with less. Are French Bulldogs in Joliet good with kids? French Bulldogs are known to be friendly and loving companions, making them ideal dogs for both children and adults. In fact, due to their size, mild temperament, and affectionate nature, French Bulldogs tend to be better suited to being around children than some of the larger breeds. They tend to get along well with both young and old alike, with a low aggression rate and preference of gentler activities over rough-housing. French Bulldogs make excellent family pets due to their loyalty and faithfulness, as well as their ease of grooming. How many minutes per day do I need to train Joliet French Bulldogs for sale? Training French Bulldogs should be approached based on the individual's personality and needs. Every day, you should set aside at least minutes to work on reinforcing basic commands, such as "sit," "down," and "come. Additionally, it is important to work on your dog's socialization skills by spending a few minutes each day introducing your pup to new people, animals, and places. The amount of mental stimulation you provide your pup is equally as important as the physical activities.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. E-mail Share by e-mail German Shepherds make great family dogs — they are loyal, intelligent, and have lots of energy! A good diet is key to giving your pet a long and healthy life, and the wrong diet can lead to a number of health problems. German Shepherds are big dogs with active lifestyles, so making sure they get the right nutrition at different stages throughout their lives is essential. Feeding your German Shepherd Puppy Puppies are growing rapidly and have very specific nutritional requirements. Puppy food tends to be high in calories and protein as they are bundles of energy at this age! Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a good quality balanced diet is essential to ensure that they grow up to be healthy adults. There are some foods designed specifically for large breeds such as German Shepherds, which provide extra support for their growing joints. You should look out for these foods in the pet store and ideally choose one of these large breed diets. You can find further general puppy feeding guidelines and advice via the AKC as well as specific German Shepherd facts and info. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? Puppies need to be fed more frequently than adult dogs to support their rapidly growing bodies. German Shepherd puppies should be fed 4 meals a day until they are 3 months old, then reduce to 3 meals a day until they are 10 months old when their growth rate starts to slow down. Once they reach this age, they need 2 meals a day. When should I start feeding adult food? Puppies must stay on puppy food until they reach adult size. German Shepherds are large dogs and tend to reach adult size later than smaller dogs. They are usually fully matured at months. German Shepherds should stay on puppy food until they are months old, then they should move on to an adult diet. Feeding your adult German Shepherd An adult German Shepherd will weigh around lbs and need at least an hour of exercise every day, so their diet needs to reflect this. It might seem like your dog is eating a lot, but they need to replace the energy they burn off and eat enough of the right nutrients to sustain them! How often should I feed my German Shepherd? Adult dogs should be fed two meals a day. When should I switch from adult to senior food? As dogs get older their nutritional requirements change again. They are less active, and German Shepherds are more prone to joint problems such as osteoarthritis. You should consider switching to a senior diet at around 8 years of age. What type of food should German Shepherds eat? Whichever diet you pick, you should ensure it is suitable for large dogs or working breeds and that it has plenty of protein and calcium, and also includes some type of doggy superfoods, too. Commercially prepared foods are the best way to ensure your dog gets a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and they come in wet or dried forms. Some dogs prefer one or the other, whilst some enjoy a variety and mix of both. Dry Food Dried food is cheap, easy to feed and store, and has lots of benefits for your dogs. Dogs fed a dried food diet will drink more water, and you can soak the kibble to add a bit extra if you like. Wet Food Wet foods contain more water than dried, and often resemble meat which some dogs love. The food is usually in chunks with jelly or gravy, and some dogs prefer it to dried. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are large and active dogs with demanding nutritional requirements throughout their lives. They go through a rapid growth stage as puppies, and as adults need the right balance of nutrients to replenish the energy they burn off exercising. They need to eat a diet that has the right balance of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, and ensure they get the right number of meals a day to maintain good physical and mental health. Puppies should eat meals a day until they are around 10 months old then they should eat 2 meals a day as adults. Do German shepherds require a lot of food? German Shepherds are large dogs so naturally, eat larger portions than smaller breeds. They are active dogs and need lots of protein and energy to keep them healthy. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. To keep up with all these changes, your puppy will require a healthy diet. It can mean the difference between a happy, active, and healthy puppy and a sickly, moody puppy with a slow growth rate. When choosing food for your puppy, ensure that it contains the main ingredients: fats, proteins, and digestible carbohydrates. It should also contain essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. Puppies need protein for building up their body tissue and for healthy skin and coat. You should always look for high-quality proteins from an animal source e. Fish oil, beef fat, chicken fat and eggs are all great sources of fats. These nutrients can be found in sweet potatoes, whole oats, white rice, and potatoes, among other starchy foods. However, be sure to limit the intake of calcium. Too much of it has been found to cause hip dysplasia in large-breed dogs. A German Shepherd puppy should consume between calories per 10 pounds of body weight according to the Nutrient Requirements of Cats and Dogs of the National Academy of Science Committee. This, however, also depends on their overall health conditions and activity level. You may need to feed them more or less to support their optimal growth. Since puppies have a lot of growing to do, they require plenty of calories. You can reduce the amount of food per pound of body weight until they reach standard adult measurements. The specific amount of food to feed a German Shepherd can vary because different dogs are sized differently and have various needs and levels of athleticism. To learn more about specific foods and ingredients, check out this article on the best diet for German Shepherds. Three to four meals of puppy food a day is ideal for a month-old German Shepherd, as the food will be easily digestible and keep the energy high throughout the day. Feeding a puppy 1—2 large meals might make them feel sick, or they may be unable to finish it all at once. When it comes to how much food to give a 1—4 month-old German Shepherd, the recommended amount is approximately one cup g or a little more, depending on activity levels per meal. Be sure to spread meals evenly throughout the day, and avoid feeding your puppy before bedtime. The West Greenwich Animal Hospital recommends not feeding a dog three hours before bedtime because they may need to go out for a toilet break at night. Since their stomachs and bodies are getting bigger, they can generally handle fewer large meals than more small ones. So, you can reduce the number of puppy food meals to 2 or 3. Since the number of meals is reduced, increase the amount of food per serving to approximately 1. The meals should be spread evenly throughout the day to ensure your German Shepherd has consistent energy levels. My German Shepherd Willow at 4 months old 10 to 12 Months At 10—12 months, a German Shepherd begins to mature as its body continues growing. Split approximately 4—5 cups —1, g of food between two meals. However, this is just a recommendation — as mentioned previously, your dog may require more or less than this depending on their activity levels. Keeping the amount of food at cups , g per day may be sufficient, or it may be best to start feeding your dog more or less than this. For example, many active or working German Shepherds may benefit from 6 cups 1. Again, the specific amount is circumstantial. However, some dog owners make the switch earlier. Honestly, this is the issue with every new pet parent. Below is a German Shepherd feeding chart to help you learn more about giving your pooch the right amount of food at the right time. Remember, the below are simply recommendations, so specific amounts can vary by dog and activity level. Age Amount of food per day Amount of servings per day months 3—4 cups — g spread across multiple servings 3—4 3—4. Always check the packaging of the food you buy for a more detailed analysis. There are endless dog food options, so making the right choice can be challenging and stressful. The main protein source is chicken, and it promotes immune system health and digestive performance. Suitable for puppies up to 15 months, this dog food is the perfect solution for young German Shepherds with lots of growing to do! One of the main benefits of this food is that it comes in different sizes, including a pound 6. This dog food contains all the nutrients a German Shepherd puppy needs to grow and thrive. Blue Buffalo dog food has real chicken, fruits, and vegetables, so your pooch will surely enjoy the delicious taste! It comes in two flavors — a chicken meal with oats and a lamb meal with brown rice. Either contains enough high-quality protein to ensure your pup can grow as healthily as possible. Medium-sized dog breeds can continue eating puppy food until 18 months. Like with puppy food, there are many adult German Shepherd dog food options, so choosing the right one can be challenging. Check out some of my below recommendations to make your search a little easier. Best Breed Dr. Best Breed Dog Food aids digestion as it contains a blend of soluble and insoluble fiber. According to a study, musculoskeletal disorders and the inability to stand are the two most common causes of death in German Shepherds. Since puppies need specific nutrients to grow, their food differs greatly from adult dog food. Puppies especially need protein because it aids with the growth and development of cells. Without adequate protein in the diet , puppies are more susceptible to serious health issues, including: Weight and muscle loss General weakness Chest and abdomen issues German Shepherds can continue eating puppy food for the first year of life and beyond. Usually, 16—18 months is a good time for a dog to start eating adult food. The most important thing to remember is that adult food is never the right choice for a German Shepherd puppy that still has much growing to do. However, there are many other factors to consider when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd, like their general weight and activity levels. Weight and Size The weight of your German Shepherd will determine how much to feed it. The general rule of thumb is that the heavier your dog is, the more food it needs to stay fueled. The average adult German Shepherd is around .Pay attention to the general height and size of your German Shepherd to determine exactly how much food to feed them. For example, an underweight German Shepherd will need extra food to get back to a healthy weight, whereas an overweight one will need less food. As you can imagine, a highly energetic dog will need more food than a German Shepherd that lies around all day. If your German Shepherd is still relatively young, i. Health Health issues can affect the way a dog eats. For example, a dog with stomach issues might avoid food altogether. Other health conditions that affect how much a dog can eat include: Pancreatitis Infections Cancer Consider whether your dog is experiencing health issues when feeding them. For instance, if your dog is shedding too much, you need to change a diet that minimizes shedding. Age The age of a German Shepherd helps determine how much food should be eaten and how often. For example as mentioned earlier , younger dogs must eat smaller meals spread evenly throughout the day, while older dogs can have 2 larger meals. A vet can weigh your German Shepherd, ask questions, and listen to the heartbeat to determine a healthy diet plan. As Willow is now a senior dog, I like to take her for vet checkups every 6 months. In many cases, giving puppies homemade food over long periods can cause health issues down the line. A study by the National Library of Medicine concluded that a homemade diet given by the owner caused a puppy to experience various health issues, including vitamin D deficiency and NSH nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism. You can give a small treat here and there, but human food should never make up the entire diet of a puppy. Below are some tasty examples! Eggs Not only are eggs beneficial for humans, but they can also be good for dogs if given in moderation. German Shepherds puppies and adults will receive plenty of nutrients from eggs, including protein and fats. The best and easiest way to give a German Shepherd an egg is to hard boil it. Avoid feeding a German Shepherd or any dog fried eggs too often due to the excessive oil. Hard-boiled eggs are usually the easiest for dogs to eat, but you can also try poached or scrambled eggs. Examples of dog-friendly fruits include: Bananas. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

Breeds The link has been copied! Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and for a good reason. They make wonderful family pets due to their friendly personalities, endless loyalty, and high intelligence. However, before bringing one into your home, it is essential to consider the costs associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In this article, we'll explore the question, "How much does a Golden Retriever cost? The overall price of a Golden Retriever can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the dog's age, lineage, and location. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that buying a puppy is just the beginning of the expenses associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In addition to the initial price, routine vet visits and vaccinations are necessary to keep your Golden Retriever healthy and prevent illnesses. These costs can add up quickly, especially in the first year of your dog's life when they require more frequent check-ups and vaccines. Your dog will typically require annual check-ups and routine vaccinations throughout their life. You can also choose to microchip your pet for additional security measures. Another ongoing expense associated with owning a Golden Retriever is grooming. While Golden Retrievers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming compared to some other breeds, they do require regular brushing and occasional baths. So, you will need to set aside adequate funds for this care. A Golden Retriever puppy cost can vary. The overall price will depend on whether you choose to purchase from a breeder or adopt from a rescue organization. However, it is essential to note that some breeders will charge more for puppies that have exceptional bloodlines or rare coat colors. If you choose to adopt a Golden Retriever puppy from a rescue organization, the adoption fee is usually much lower than the purchase price from a breeder. It is important to note that adoption fees will usually cover the cost of veterinary care, food, and shelter for the puppy while in the rescue organization's care. Often if you choose to adopt from a rescue or dog shelter, the pet will come into your family already spayed or neutered and up to date on all vaccinations. Color One of the most significant factors is the color of the puppy. Golden Retrievers typically come in shades of gold, but some may have a slightly darker or lighter coat, which can create variations in their price. For instance, puppies with lighter-colored coats may be more expensive than those with darker coats. Bloodline Puppies with a pedigree from a well-known champion bloodline are often more expensive than those without a proven lineage. This cost difference is because they are likely to have a superior appearance, temperament, and overall health characteristics. Often dogs from such lineage come with documentation and official paperwork to verify their background. A quality breeder who has invested time and resources in breeding and raising quality Golden Retrievers may charge a higher price for their puppies. This reason is that they are more likely to provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Estimated Size Finally, the estimated size of the puppy can impact the cost. Typically, male Golden Retrievers are larger than females, and puppies from larger litters may be smaller than those from smaller litters. Owing to that, puppies from a smaller litter may be more expensive as they tend to be in higher demand. Overall, it is essential to consider all of these factors when looking to purchase a Golden Retriever to ensure that you get the best value for your money. As we've discussed, the cost of purchasing and maintaining a Golden Retriever can quickly add up. However, investing in a GPS-tracking dog collar is one way to protect your investment in your furry friend. A GPS-tracking dog collar can help make sure that your Golden Retriever doesn't wander too far from home or get lost. This feature is especially important if you live in an area with a lot of traffic or wildlife, where your dog could be at risk of injury or getting into dangerous situations. A GPS tracking dog collar can help you quickly locate your dog if they do manage to escape, allowing you to bring them home safely and quickly. No doubt a GPS-tracking dog collar is an additional expense, but it can provide peace of mind and protection for your furry friend, making it a worthwhile investment for any Golden Retriever owner. It can give you the confidence to let your dog explore and play freely while still being able to keep an eye on their location and well-being. Incorporating the Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar into your Golden Retriever's routine can help ensure their safety and security while enjoying all the joys of owning this beloved breed. The collar has a long battery life and is water-resistant, making it durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The collar also offers activity tracking, which can help you monitor your dog's exercise habits and ensure they are getting enough physical activity to stay healthy. Golden Retriever Breed Guide The Golden Retriever is a popular breed known for being friendly and having an affectionate personality. They are intelligent, eager to please, and have a gentle nature, making them excellent family pets. They are typically very patient with children and get along well with other animals, making them an ideal companion for families with kids or other pets. Golden Retrievers are considered to be a medium to large breed in terms of size and weight. Males typically weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand in inches between 23 to .Alternatively, females weigh between 55 pounds to 65 pounds and stand in inches between .Golden Retrievers have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, but with proper care, they can live up to 14 years. Golden Retrievers are an active breed. They frequently require multiple sessions of daily exercise to stay in peak shape. They enjoy many types of outdoor activities, including swimming, fetch, and hiking. These dogs make great companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. However, they can also adopt a more laid-back lifestyle if they don't receive regular exercise. The lifetime care costs of a Golden Retriever will often depend on factors such as their health, age, and lifestyle. Budgeting for these costs and planning accordingly to ensure that your furry friend receives the care they need throughout their lifetime is essential. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Golden Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local animal shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog can be significantly less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder, and it also helps to reduce the number of dogs in shelters. Another way to save money is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may have already gone through the training process, which can save on the cost of obedience classes and training supplies. They may also be less demanding in terms of exercise and may already be house-trained, which can save on cleaning and flooring expenses. When buying a Golden Retriever puppy, it's crucial to find a breeder who will always prioritize the health and life quality of their dogs. A breeder should be able to provide you with health guarantees, documentation of the puppy's lineage, and proof of vaccinations and other necessary medical treatments. Moreover, it's also a good idea to visit the breeder's facility and meet the puppy's parents, if possible, to get a sense of the breeding environment and the temperament of the puppies. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option when buying a Golden Retriever, doing so can lead to additional expenses down the line if the puppy develops health problems that require expensive medical treatment. A reputable breeder may have higher upfront costs but is more likely to produce healthy puppies with fewer genetic health issues. This initial extra cost can ultimately save you money and heartache in the long run. By taking the time to research breeders and consider all options carefully, you can save on the initial cost of owning a Golden Retriever while still providing a loving home for a furry companion. Conclusion: The Cost of Owning a Golden Retriever In conclusion, owning a Golden Retriever can be a fulfilling experience, but it is crucial to consider the upfront and ongoing costs that are commonly associated with owning one. By understanding the factors that impact the price tag of a Golden Retriever and exploring ways to reduce those costs, you can ensure that you are providing the best care for your furry friend without breaking the bank. Lastly, you will want to consider how to protect your newest family member and the investment that comes with them. The Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar is a cutting-edge style of technology that offers dog owners an extra layer of protection for their furry friends. The collar uses GPS technology to track your dog's location in real time and sends alerts to your phone if your dog leaves a designated safe zone. This feature can be beneficial in the event that your Golden Retriever ever goes missing or wanders off, giving you the ability to quickly and easily locate them. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. 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 New York 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 New York? 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 New York? 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. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog. Coat Trim Cost of Veterinary Expenses You can expect to pay for the vet each year so that your dog can remain up to date with their shots. An annual visit can also make sure your dog is healthy, but you may want to take your dog in more often if they get sick or have other problems. You can get pet insurance to help cover the cost of these vet expenses. A good breeder will provide you with not only a healthy, well-socialized puppy but also support and guidance as you navigate life with your new furry friend. But with so many breeders out there, how do you know who to choose? Look for a breeder who is registered with the American Kennel Club AKC or other reputable organizations and who has experience breeding golden retrievers. A reputable breeder will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the breed and will provide you with references from past clients. A good breeder will provide support and guidance as you adjust to life with your new pet. They should be available to answer questions, offer training advice, and help you navigate any challenges that arise. Look for a Breeder with Experience Experience matters when it comes to breeding golden retrievers. A breeder with years of experience will have a wealth of knowledge about the breed and will be able to provide you with valuable insights and advice. They will know how to breed for good temperament, health, and other important traits that make golden retrievers such beloved family pets. This includes information about any genetic diseases or health issues that may be present in the bloodline. By choosing a breeder who prioritizes health and genetics, you can help ensure that your new puppy is healthy and happy. Some breeders may insist that you participate in these events if you want to purchase a puppy from them, but this is not a requirement. Choose a breeder who respects your lifestyle and preferences and who is primarily concerned with finding a good home for their puppies. The right Golden Retriever breeder depends on you as a person, but any good breeder should be able to answer any questions. You may come across the perfect puppy online, but do not commit to any dog until you can visit in person. The dog may be totally different than in their photo. In some cases, you may find that the dog does not exist. Some scammers can take photos of other dogs and collect payment for the dog. But the scammer will disappear before the buyer realizes the dog is not theirs. To avoid these puppy sales scams, always visit the dog in person before you sign a contract or make a payment. Make sure the dog looks like the pictures and that they have the temperament that you want. If you are working with a breeder, be sure to check their credentials and ask for references. You can speak to other dog owners who have gone through the breeder. Finally, do not rush into getting a dog. Conclusion While Golden Retrievers can be moderately expensive to keep over the ten to twelve years that they generally live, there are many ways that people can reduce the cost of keeping them. One of the best ways to save money while raising a Golden Retriever is to get quality pet insurance. As long as their owners are prepared to offer them financial security in the form of good food, a few well-loved toys, and some regular veterinary care, Goldens repay the devotion a hundredfold in terms of loyalty and affection for their families. Check out our list of Golden Retriever Rescue Organizations , they are listed by state. 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.

We know that in the thirty thousand years of living with humans, dogs have learned to communicate with us to get what they want. They constantly study and watch us, learning how to get us to do their bidding, such as feed and pet them, or take them for a walk. They can even ask us for help with their irresistible puppy dog eyes. Australian Labradoodles are known to be excellent communicators. When your doodle is trying to get the ball from under the couch, he will probably ask for your help. He may look up at you, even whine or cock his head,eyes pleading! Perfectly understood, and who can resist? Do Dogs Smile? No other mammal has learned to depend on their human companions like our dogs have. Canine behaviorists believe that dogs have perhaps even learned to smile by observing their human friends smile. When your Labradoodle does a trick or when you greet her, you will probably smile or even do a dance of joy. Our dogs learn to copy this, with their own smile and whole body wiggle of happiness. Mimicking these body languages, means he just might get a pet or a treat. For those interested in scientific study on dogs and smiling check out this study. Enjoy these photos from some of our breeders of their labradoodles' unique smiles. Arctic Labradoodles Norway. Communicating More Effectively With Your Veterinarian A note about household supplies: I purchased these 24 white wash clothes from Amazon for cleaning up puppy messes. My initial impression of their quality matched my expectation. These wash clothes would never be left out for guests, but were perfectly suitable for clean up jobs. After four years, they may not look pretty, but they're still holding up. I still use them every day for wiping the food and water bowls for the dogs. When I realized that I should probably bring Bernie's vomit sample with me to the emergency vet, I had to find a way to transport the vomit-soaked wash cloth without grossing me or anyone else out. The gallon-sized Ziploc bag was the perfect size for laying the wash cloth flat, zipping close the top, and transporting the sample safely without any smell. I wasn't certain if our Labradoodle Bernie McSquare would take the anti-nausea medication that the emergency vet gave us. Turns out that Bernie loved the suc.Our family life had settled into a comfortable routine. Matthew worked hour overnight shifts at an area hospital, so he was around during the day for whatever Bernie might need. During the school year , I worked part-time, so I was home frequently as well. Bernie was used to having the pack around, so on one of the rare days that Matthew and I were gone simultaneously, he stressed out. Matthew came home in the early afternoon. Shortly after, Bernie was throwing up a little bit of blood. Matthew grabbed a white washcloth to sop up the blood specks, placed it in the Ziploc bag, and headed with Bernie to the emergency vet again. He texted me, so I would know once class was over. I met him at the emergency vet clinic right after they had performed their comprehensive exam and taken a few x-rays. When we went into the exam room, Dr. Novakowski explained that nothing seemed out-of-the-ordinary. Bernie's vitals were good and nothing was flagged on the x-ray. She recommended labs. I asked if there was any possibility that our absence could have provoked anxiety that lead to his vomiting blood. We gave her the picture of our life with Bernie and how much time he spends with us. We take him with us to many places, so we're together a lot! And being a high energy Doodle, Bernie definitely shows his enthusiasm, but also his anxiety. She suggested that he might have Addison's Disease. She made it clear that this diagnosis was rare, usually in slightly older female dogs. But being a Labradoodle, his general genetic profile is at a higher risk for potentially developing Addison's Disease. The cortisol level test was not cheap, but making the decision to test his cortisol levels was easy. We were hoping to rule out at least one possibility for the blood in his vomit. That night Matthew began researching Addison's Disease in dogs. He was also looking for information that would be accessible for me, someone with no medical background. The next day we heard back from Dr. Unfortunately, Bernie's cortisol levels were low. She suggested taking him to our regular veterinarian for the ACTH Stimulation Test to determine if the low levels were caused by Addison's. The Definitive Atypical Addison's Disease Diagnosis We set up the appointment, dropped Bernie off early one morning at our vet's, and picked him up about two hours later. The results were conclusive. Bernie's cortisol level remained low even with ACTH stimulation. Since his sodium and potassium levels had been normal all along, he was diagnosed with Atypical Addison's Disease. On the positive side, this diagnosis means that for now Bernie is capable of producing cortisol. He just doesn't produce enough of it. The vet recommended a low dose of Prednisone every other day. If we know that Bernie is experiencing or will experience any stressful events, we can give an extra dose of Prednisone to support his body continuing to produce its own cortisol. Also comforting was Dr. Carlton's assessment that Bernie most likely developed Addison's Disease from an adrenal gland infection when he was younger. While Poodles are one of the canine species genetically predisposed to developing Addison's Disease, there's not currently a specific canine genetic test. The fact that his Addison's likely had no connection to his parents was a huge relief. We were already thinking about adopting another puppy from Crawford Doodles , so Bernie could have a sibling. Lucy and McQueen Crawford make such beautiful sweet-tempered Doodles, we just had to expand our pack! They created the Symptoms Infographic I included earlier in this post. Their documents page is immense, but organized incredibly thoughtfully. At the top there are the most frequently requested documents to support the overwhelmed dog parent. This community of dog lovers is dedicated to making sure all A-dogs live their best doggy life! Members pose all sorts of questions, usually when their dog is first diagnosed and any time medications may be adjusted. Answers flow in, usually with follow-up questions to clarify pertinent details. Bottom line: you do not have to go through the diagnosis and treatment of your dog alone! If you're looking for more information on how we manage Bernie's Atypical Addison Disease, please refer to these posts:.

Our experienced dog nutritionists will learn about your dog and guide you towards a customized fresh dog box. We handmake different treats and chews every 4 weeks. We use roughly lbs of quality fresh meat and seafood. At one low price, you get everything in the Treat And Chew Box. Do you need a few mins? Let us keep them busy. Every month we send 8 to 10 freshly air-dried chews of different strength levels. Our treats come in every shape and size to break into whatever size you need. We air-dry lbs of fresh meat and fish for days to make one of these boxes. Make that a healthy snack!! That is why we have the Mini Treat and Chew Box, it has 2 different types of treats and a bag of chews. No seafood or heavy chews. Let us help you save your shoes with our Super Chews. Add as many Super Chews as you want to any box or as a standalone subscription! Just like our treats, we make a fresh new Super Chew every 4 weeks. You decide how many shoes you want to save! Made with approx. They are air-dried just like all of our treats and chews and made with lean muscle meats, poultry bone, organ meats, seafood and fur for fiber. Secreting organs may include spleen or kidney. Proteins vary every box cycle! Contributor Why Trust Forbes Vetted The Forbes Vetted editors have conducted extensive research on pet products, including many articles specifically dedicated to sleuthing out the best dog food on the market. For this piece, we tapped several additional experts, including veterinary nutritionists. Furthermore, we refresh this story regularly to be sure that our picks are still top-of-the-line and in stock; this page was last updated in August .How We Chose The Best Pet Food Delivery Services Many factors went into narrowing down the best dog food delivery services including popularity, convenience, variety and overall value. We considered advice from veterinary nutritionists, made sure each service offered AAFCO-compliant options and—most importantly—analyzed each service through the lens of pup parents. Finally, we made sure to take budget into account, highlighting a wide range of prices, and evaluated each of the accompanying websites for ease of use and plan customizability. Ahead, find recommendations of what to look for when scanning different services: Budget This is arguably the most important factor to consider when selecting a dog food delivery service. Word to the wise: Be sure to factor in the number of shipments offered within each price bracket. Take a cue from Dr. Third, the food should be cooked at a low temperature to ensure all the nutrients remain intact. Customizable Plans Personalized meal plans for your dog can sometimes be more costly, but that sort of customization might be worth it to you. Before you hit the checkout button, make sure to look for an AAFCO statement on the back of the dog food bag, box or can. Additionally, the service should use whole, fresh ingredients that are minimally processed and packed with dog-friendly nutrients. Finally, check whether the service has veterinarians and nutritionists on staff. If you have the budget and storage space available, yes. Dog food subscriptions can make life for both you and your dog easier in a number of ways. You get peace of mind with fresh high-quality ingredients vetted by veterinarians and nutritionists as well as plenty of variety to choose from. That said, again, you have to take your budget and storage space into account. Dog food subscriptions are expensive and often demand extra room in your freezer or refrigerator, as most meals need to be kept frozen. Fresh dog food and raw food are not the same, no. Some raw foods are also in the form of kibble and would not be considered fresh. More Pet Stories To Shop. Quantity Add to Basket Every Puppy deserves the best start to life. That's why our puppy trial box offers them a variety of our multi-award winning natural dog food, optimised by vets to make sure they get the healthiest diet to help them enjoy a happy and healthy life. Included in this trial box is some of the finest hand cooked food suitable for puppies. Bursting in flavour with all the nourishment a growing puppy needs, so you can be sure your puppy will thrive in life. Pick up to two meat types to help your puppy transition onto Different Dog easier decreasing the risk of upset tummies. Storing Different Dog All of our packs arrive frozen and then are stored in your freezer. Simply defrost in your fridge and serve. Once defrosted Different Dog lasts for up to five days and is kept in the fridge. Why feed Different Dog? Each of our recipes are as unique as your dog, lovingly hand cooked, using fresh locally sourced ingredients straight out the earth. No Grain, Legumes or nasties, just simply droolworthy real food that lives in the Fridge and Freezer. We recommend sticking to one protein for this period of transitioning. Why not help the transition with Animotics Probiotic Paste? Being in a new environment with new stresses or transitioning onto a new food can unbalance the gut causing sensitive tummies. Animotics helps reseed the gut with 4 different strains of probiotic bacteria and 22 million CFU. Use either with our food or pop directly into their month to help heal or prevent upset tummies. Get in touch and we can help at or feedme differentdog.

If you are looking for a Shiloh Shepherd, Teddy bear Shiloh or Loasian Shepherd with excellent breeding, calm temperament, and a fabulous home-raised experience, you came to the right place! We specialize in dogs with less drive who make excellent family companions, outstanding service, therapy and guardian dogs. I tell everyone I know to consider highland hills for their next dog. Thanks again. The land is home to roaming Scottish Highlander cattle, cats, chickens, horses and parrots. How ever, my pride is being with my pack of Shepherds. I love them all! Almost everything I have has been created by me or from so long ago threw modern day science that they exist again. Here they all have freedom to roll in green grass and meadows, explore deep, dark woods, and swim in creeks and ponds. They also have cattle, chickens and grandchildren to round up! I have been blessed to share my passion of these special breeds, including the ones under development with my family and now our grandchildren. I'd say we are are pretty big deal. However, the Loasian and Teddy Bear Shiloh are new breeds under development by Highland Hills, for people with specific criteria needs, we have you covered. I live on a farm, family of 5 children 11 Grandkids, all three of these breeds have a perfect place in our hearts, home, work, Service, therapy, peace keepers, guardians and babysitters. We have all your needs right here in one place. Let us direct you to the perfect Shepherd for your home, family, and specific criteria needs. You came to the right place. What Is A Shiloh Shepherd? Barber was a dog trainer who noticed that the average American family was struggling to manage German Shepherd dogs. Therefore, she set about attempting to create a dog like the German Shepherd that would be easier to train. Barber wanted a dog that was larger, calmer and easier to handle than the GSD. The introduction of these other breeds took them away from the German shepherd in appearance, genetics, and temperament. Rehomes by individual breeders happen, and there is also the Shiloh Shepherd specific rescue that monitors and facilitates the rehoming of Shilohs. The best place to start is the International Shiloh Shepherd Alliance, checking out the materials on their website. All of these breeders are required to submit breeding proposals to a panel of breed wardens to ensure quality. In our experience, you can gain vital first-hand experience of life owning a dog breed by talking the owners who can give a genuine insight into the dog breed, providing both pros and cons. Kelly, who is the owner of two Shiloh Shepherd dogs, offered some advice to anyone thinking about getting a Shiloh dog. They are wonderful, protective, loving family guardians that are go-with-the-flow, enjoy training, and are typically up for anything you are. They have one of the best longevity statistics for an extra-large breed, averaging at about years old. They are not prone to wander, and love to stay with their owners, making them generally reliable off-leash on hikes. The International Shiloh Shepherd Alliance ISSA is a very proactive Shiloh Shepherd breed club, and they are continually trying to improve the breed by embarking on breed-specific research studies, having strong standards for breeding dogs, and increasing genetic diversity. Shiloh Shepherds are slow to mature and may have adolescent fear periods between years old, which can lead to reactivity without careful management. They are large and are often unaware of their size. They may accidentally knock over things on low tables. Kelly provided us with a suggested waiting time depending on your location. You can anticipate average wait list times to be between 6 months and 2 years in North America, and over 5 years in Northern Europe. Kelly offered a suggested monthly cost of owning a Shiloh. Anything Else To Consider? They range from excellent companions to caring service dogs to great agility dogs. Shiloh Shepherds are a newer breed, developed by Tina Barber about 43 years ago. The breed was developed to eliminate the problems commonly exhibited by GSDs, such as hip dysplasia, GSDiva, and degenerative myelopathy. Shiloh Shepherds are carefully selected for breeding and undergo thorough physical, genetic, and temperament testing prior to breeding. None of this is cheap, easy or without occasional heartbreak. Developing this breed is truly the work of a lifetime. We are proud to be part of the Original Shiloh Shepherds. Find out more about this incredible breed. Cindy Cindy fell in love with the Shiloh Shepherd breed as soon as she saw a picture of a New Zion dog. Sometime in she contacted Lisa at New Zion and told her the type of dog she was looking for. In , she got Scout. He was the best dog. Personality, looks, charm, and he actually foiled a robbery when he was 9 months old. Then, in , she got Prydwyn, aka Pryddie. She was smarter than most people she knew. Between them, she had the two most wonderful dogs anywhere. Pryddie was the escape artist, and entirely too good at getting where she wanted to go. She was also determined. After a squirrel she caught bit her on the lip, she started standing up and shaking the big trees to get the squirrels to fall out. Pryddie and Scout were best friends. Sadly, she lost Pryddie in to Degenerative Myelopethy. She called Lisa, and was put on the list for a new puppy. In she got Meli, who is a real charmer! Meli has become her hearing service dog. She then got Odin in and he has added a lot of entertainment to the household. Without the New Zion kennel, there would not be any Shiloh Shepherds. So many people with needs have found safety and assistance with these dogs. They are amazing family members. They are search and rescue dogs. They are show stoppers everywhere. Maggie Maggie's mom suggested she get a Shiloh when her lab, Cody, died from cancer in .She was hesitant, because she is a proponent of rescuing dogs and is very skeptical of breeders. After a lot of research into how the Shiloh Shepherd breed is being maintained and learning how strict they are in maintaining a healthy breed she decided that a Shiloh might really be the way to go. The breeding restrictions are what made her decide to consider it. She wanted to support a breeder that was willing to put forth so much effort and time to maintain the integrity of the breed. She is very active and was hoping to find a dog that she could train to go on rides and pack trips with her horses. Lisa seems to have a knack for placing puppies and dogs with families that will benefit the dog as well as be benefitted by them. Lisa found Laika for her and she has been a perfect fit. She helped to bring Maggie and her Bloodhound Louis out of their depression after losing Cody. Her training has been incredibly easy and she wants nothing more to do than to learn and be near her. It was all new to them because they had never been to a dog show. Everyone they met was happy to help them get through the shows and even loaned them collars, leashes and advice on what to do in the show ring. It was a lot of information very fast and long days, but they had a wonderful time. They got to see all of the dogs and how much work goes into running and keeping the kennel in the best possible condition. The dogs were all so happy to show off and play. They all did very well at the show and Odin even got his puppy championship. She is very excited to be a part of the breeding program with her mom. Read about our organization What is a Shiloh Shepherd? The Shiloh Shepherd is a giant shepherd dog bred to be larger, calmer, and more family-friendly. Shilohs sprang from German shepherd lines which were then mixed with other breeds to improve health and develop the breed's distinct look and temperament. The ISSA is an educationally-minded group of club members and breeders. Our mission is to preserve this unique rare breed and carry it forward into the future. Shilohs are a giant breed, significantly larger than most of today's German shepherd dogs. Whereas King shepherds are described as a flock guardian breed, the goal of the Shiloh shepherd breeding program is to produce an excellent companion dog. The Shiloh head possesses a more "wolfish" look than either King or German shepherds. Read more about Shilohs Where did Shilohs come from? The Shiloh Shepherd is an American rare breed. Tina Barber, our breed founder, set out in the 's to recreate the style of shepherd she remembered from her childhood in Germany. Eventually, the kennel of origin gave the new breed its name when Tina split from the AKC in .She has grown into a great example of the Shiloh breed. Emmy is confident, outgoing, and a complete goofball. She visited a local dog show with hundreds of dogs and thousands of people, and she just hung out, trying to sleep during it all. She is an active girl who is constantly wanting to play with her housemates. Emmy definitely inherited that from her mom, Lyric. In her first litter, we had some fantastic conformation and great family dogs. Isaac is said to be a confident, even-keeled boy who likes to do his own thing. He is a bit independent, smart and rock solid. At home he can be a bit more aloof, but out and about, as long as he makes the first move, he is a social butterfly. His owners always gets compliments on him every time they take him out. His last litter saw some fantastic bone, great conformation, and funny puppies with his independence. By pairing these two, we will get a range of laid back to very active, smart, funny, and sassy puppies that will do well in most any home. They will be smart as a whip and keep you on your toes with their diva-ish ways. We should get a range of temperaments, but with amazing confidence. These puppies will be all sables in plush and smooth coats. We will be doing a dual sired litter, and I am continuing to search for the perfect second male for this litter. We will DNA test them prior to leaving to verify parentage. Wade is a friendly, low intensity dog that is bombproof, outgoing, confident, and independent. His outgoing nature makes him a bit of an outlier for what most people consider typical livestock guardians, which is just one part of what makes him special. Wade is HUGE. He is true gentle giant of a Sarplanaric, towering 28 inches at the shoulders and weighing in at a whopping pounds. He carries heavy bone and a wide chest. His coat is thick, dense, and very long. Wade's temperament is non-reactive and friendly, both to humans and to other animals, on or off his home turf. He has little to no noise sensitivity, and he aced his adult temperament test. Cognac is one of our few lines relatively unrelated to a lot of dogs in our Shiloh gene pool. Cognac is the quintessential Shiloh Shepherd. She brings a mellow temperament, quick intelligence, excellent movement, and beauty to this pairing. These puppies will be first-generation Foundation Stock lines. If you love genetics, want to make a difference, or just want to get more involved with the ISSA Breed Club, raising a puppy from any of our outcross litters is a great chance to be part of the breed's history! These F1 outcross pups will be incredibly biodiverse and very valuable to future Shiloh Shepherd generations. These puppies will be sold with a co-ownership breed contract only and will need to remain intact at least until their second birthday, upon which they will be officially evaluated for temperament and structure. The most promising pups will be selected to move forward in the program to benefit our future Shiloh Shepherd gene pool. This litter will be whelped and raised at Moonshine Shilohs located in the Florida Keys. Puppies will be sold and guaranteed through Moonshine Shilohs via a co-own or breeder's agreement. Since she was a young pup, I could see the potential in this girl and she has not disappointed as she has matured. Her beautiful strong head and outstanding playful temperament make a perfect match for her intended sire. Chief goes back to the Rocky lines that were instrumental in building the dogs in the Guardian lineage. He brings to the table some incredible structure and size along with with a rock solid disposition. He also represents some unique genetics that are very important to our gene pool. We are expecting all plush pups in a variety of both dual and sable colors with the remote possibility of solid whites. This litter will be whelped and raised in Toronto, ON, Canada and all pups will be placed and guaranteed through Guardian Kennels. Breeding expected March .Please follow this litter here. She brings to the table smaller, more up right ear set, a strong topline, and good neck length along with her joyful personality. He has a calm and outgoing demeanor, and we feel his wide head and frame, good bone, and more moderate croup will compliment Arcadia nicely. With Arcadia's people-pleasing and playful personality combined with Pluto's calm temperament, we are anticipating puppies that prioritize human interaction, have a good sense of humor, and have a medium temperament. These pups are ideally suited for active companion homes or families interested in dabbling in dog sports. All puppies will have plush coats in various shades of sable. Breeding was completed at the end of April and puppies are expected near the end of June pending confirmation. FALL