photos of bulldog puppies
We're in Booth right near the entrance so please be sure to look for us! Meet some of our available Bulldogs, give a donation smooch at our Kissing Booth and pick up one of our Limited Edition adoptaBull Wisconsin tee shirts and sweatshirts. Learn all about the show, location, parking, admission details and purchase advance tickets at Great Lakes Pet Expo Hope to see you there! S Internal Revenue service. You can find all of our financial documents at www. What does this mean for you? It means that your donations to support the Bulldogs in our program are tax-deductible if you file a U. Donations from supporters like you are critical to the success of our program. We sincerely appreciate any amount you can give to help these very special dogs. Just click the donation link below to send a donation to help us. We're a dedicated group of volunteers and are looking for others to join us in our important mission. While we require English Bulldog ownership experience to volunteer as a foster home, let's talk if you have a passion for the breed and want to help us with your skills. BCARN is the national non-profit organization that assists hundreds of rescue volunteers across the US with their mission of helping Bulldogs in need. BCARN established the nation's "best practices" and code of ethics for English Bulldog rescue and provides financial assistance to local volunteers across the country. Your Pet Chef Lisa Hennessy will help you explore the option of a raw diet in her newly released cookbook. Lisa's book demystifies feeding a raw diet and is loaded with important information on nutrition and healthy eating for your best friend. Your Pet Chef will customize a diet to your pet's needs and deliver your food right to your door. Click any link to learn more about Your Pet Chef's custom diets and home delivery. AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support adoptaBull English Bulldog Rescue every time you shop, at no cost to you. When you shop at smile. Select adoptaBull English Bulldog Rescue as your charity of choice. Click the logo above to learn more about this exciting program from the Amazon Foundation. Check out all of these great partners at Our Partner Shops. We don't buy from auctions. Or, if you'd like to attend our events join our Meetup group where you can stay up to date on all of our events it's free -- no strings! CEBR is the oldest and most experienced non-profit c3 english bully rescue organization. You can feel confident that your donations are put to appropriate use and they are also tax deductible to the extent of the law. In addition we are a licensed shelter with the Illinois Department of Agriculture. We know you are excited about the thought of getting a bully. But before you make this decision, we ask that you have done the following: Spoken with all members of your household and come to mutual agreement. Discussed the new addition with your home owner's association or landlord if applicable. Experienced the breed yourself. If you do not currently have a bully family member, we ask that you attend one of our CEBR events before applying. Double check our Adoption Area Map to be sure you are within our adoption radius. Bullies are not an inexpensive breed and having a solid savings account that has an emergency fund is essential. Rescue bullies are also not a way to get a "cheap bully.
Yes Royal Canin is the best, then you have Eukanoba which is a bit cheaper and then of course Pedigree, which I persoanlly do not like. Although there is a new pedigree advanced or active which I am told is better, but dont know if it comes for pups also. At two months of age you can give 4 meals to your dog and at 3 month about 3 meals. Please note that calcium and multi vitamins should also be given to your pup. You can also prepare home made food, the only problem is that after the pup grows up you will have to feed and make a lot of rotis. For home made food you can have veg or non veg. But it should be cooked properly. Do not give sweets to your dog its not good for them. The breeder is the best option to get a proper diet sheet as it will be breed specific. If you see on the long run a food like eukanoba which is cheaper that Royal canin will be better and more convenient for you also and I dont think it would be that expensive, plus follow the feeding instruction as the dog will eat less of it also. On the net there is a golden retreiver club of india and it may be a good idea to contact them too to get a diet sheet etc or speak to breeders listed there regarding care for goldens, grooming, training etc. The picture of the pup looks ok, but remember that they will go through a ugly stage while growing up so dont panic if suddenly your dog does not look like a golden and looks prety weird. You have seen the parents and hopefully your pup will turn out to be like them. All the best. Pedigree Puppy Dry Dog Food Pedigree Buy Now One of the best dog food brands, Pedigree, brings the right mix of nutrients to supplement the nutritional needs of growing puppies. Pedigree was founded in the year and is a subsidiary of the popular American brand Mars. The company retails top-class dog food using premium ingredients and even has a good reputation in the international markets. The brand was founded in the year by Dipnarayan Goswami and has its headquarters in Chattisgarh. It retails everything from treats, food, and supplements for dogs and cats. Here you can also check cat food brands. Royal Canin is a highly trusted pet food brand in India and has a solid customer base here. The brand has a stellar clientele in India and manufactures food products for both cats and dogs. The products are affordable and your pups will love them. The products are free from grains, corn, wheat, soy, and fillers. This new formulation of fresh chicken, egg, and farm-fresh vegetables is high in DHA to boost brain and nervous system development. Notable Features of Grain Zero Puppy Dry Dog Food: Made with chicken, oatmeal, dried egg product Has fish oil and flax seeds Rich in DHA — omega 3 fatty acid Enriched with essential vitamins, minerals, calcium, and phosphorus Pros: Helps in the development of the brain and nervous system Contains easily digestible protein Has no wheat, corn, soy, or fillers Cons: Not suitable for all dog breeds Purina Supercoat Puppy Dry Dog Food Purina The Purina puppy dog food from the house of Nestle is curated to cater to the nutrition needs of puppies. This protein-rich formula houses the ingredients of all-natural foods like rice, corn, wheat, and chicken. It is developed by vets and nutritionists to provide balanced nutrition to puppies. It provides the required amounts of vitamins and minerals like calcium and phosphorus for improved bone health. Notable Features of the Chappi Puppy Dry Dog Food: High-quality protein supports healthy muscles Dietary fibre promotes digestive health Suitable for all breeds, including Pugs, Beagle, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherd Contains calcium and phosphorus for healthy bones Contains crude protein, crude fibre, and crude fat Pros: Acts as a complete meal Strengthens bones and enhances fur sheen Vitamin E helps in building immunity Cons: Pups may not like the flavour FAQs What are the best puppy food brands in India? Pedigree, Royal Canin, and Drools are some of the best puppy food brands in India. What is better for dogs home food or dog food? You can surely feed them home-cooked meals but make sure to consult with your vet first. Laxmi Tiwari Making sense of the urban rush while enjoying the essence of simplicity; she lives life, one yoga asana at a time. Juggling between biosciences and writing is a daily ritual for her. Nothing else brings more joy to her than the little things in life - trying new cuisines, discovering random Spotify playlists, exploring the less-trodden streets. When not writing, you can catch her revisiting The Office, eating cakes, or sleeping. Related Articles. Dog food Introduction Dogs are very different from humans, and so is their food. Usually home-cooked meals lack the essential nutrients needed by dogs. Prepared pet food offers guaranteed nutrition, digestibility, taste, safety, and ease of use, essential to ensure a good health for your dog The dog's food must comprise grain-free, low-starch components, animal fat, full muscle meat, fruits, and vegetables for optimal growth and consistent health. Agood dog food depends on the good quality of ingredients that are used in preparing it. We've gathered a list of the top ten dog food brands, to help the dog owners quickly evaluate the pros and cons while exploring the different options for good dog food brands. Product list 1. With the deliciousness of eggs, this product offers full and balanced dog food that is one of the best dog foods for large dogs. The dog food brand- Pedigree, which was developed based on studies by the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, has been shown to give dogs a shinier coat and other markers of excellent health. Read this article to know about prices and reviews of the top 10 Dog food brands Updated August 31, This article is related to an affiliate advertising program and The New Indian Express's journalists were not involved in production of this article. Please note that the prices may vary. It is a complete and balanced meal with chicken and eggs for your dog. Expert Comment- Pedigree dog food has more balanced constituents compared to other companies. It also promotes digestive health, stronger muscles, bones, and teeth, and supports natural defences, which would be great for your dog. It is priced around Rs 1,, so you only need to pay Rs. Expert Comment- Purepet is one of the best affordable dog food brands. Their dog food consists of a lot of vitamins and minerals, making it a great option for weight management. The company makes its product with the right combination of vitamins, minerals, essential amino acids, and several other nutrients, making it very healthy for dogs. Expert Comment- Drools dog food is a value-for-money product. It is pretty popular in the dog community due to its amazing taste. Besides, it can help your dog gain weight easily and maintain good health. It is a precise combo of healthy, natural ingredients such as rice, proteins, vitamins, and many other things, making it an excellent option for your puppy. Expert Comment- Purina dog food is an excellent option for puppies. It is a value-for-money product and can help your dog get soft skin, a healthy digestive system, and a lot of other benefits. Dogs , Parenting February 20, My friend got himself a Golden retriever cute puppy. The next question which was posed is what to give the puppy to eat and what is the best dog food for golden retriever puppy in India? Golden retriever dogs are prone to certain health issues, genetic joint problems, cancer and allergies. Selecting a high quality dog food reduces the chances of such diseases. It is always advisable to maintain the same food which the pup was fed initially to avoid digestion problems. Gradually you should be introducing to new food or home made food. If you are also looking at getting your first pet then you should read how to choose your first pet. Golden retriever food for puppies Starting the puppy off with the right nutrition will help set them up to face whatever health issues they may face as an adult. As golden retriever puppies grow, their appetites also grow along with it. Golden retriever puppies have a tendency to become overweight and this could lead to serious health problems. How many feedings a day? Initial stages of your puppy it is recommended to give 3 feeds a day. But as the puppy gradually grows reduce it to 2 feeds a day. This increases the longevity of your puppy. Anything beyond 2 should be given only if it is recommended by the vet. This feeding schedule should be started when your puppy is 6 months of age. Your puppy initially would have been eating at approximately am, pm and pm. When should I start giving adult golden retriever food? When your puppy is of 1 year old then you can gradually start giving Royal Canin Golden Retriever Adult food or any other well known brands. Always remember to keep a bowl of water next to food for your puppy or dog. The Best Dog Food for Golden Retrievers Below are our top picks for golden retriever best food which can be bought in amazon too. Puppies need 4x Protein, 9. Best Starter Foods for Golden Retriever Newborn month old : After your Golden Retriever puppy completes 1 month, they should be introduced to a good starter dog food which is an ideal transition from maternal milk to solid foods. These foods meet both the energy and dietary needs of the pups during their weaning phase. The starter foods can also be served to lactating mothers, fulfilling their high energy demands during the nursing period. Here are a few starter food options: 1 Royal Canin Maxi Starter Imperial Royal Canin Maxi Starter is healthfully complete starter nourishment meant exclusively for a large breed dog like Golden Retriever. It has all the significant components for keeping great wellbeing in both the lactating bitch and her little puppies. The benefits of Royal Canin Maxi Starter: The kibble rehydrates rapidly into porridge-like consistency, making it very delicious. Supports excellent digestive health. Strengthens the natural defence of both the mother and pups. Contains essential vitamins and minerals which improve cellular health and immunity. Prebiotics and probiotics in the diet assist gentle and healthy digestion. Contains lean proteins to build strong muscle mass. Consists of natural ingredients that support a higher nutrient absorption and a healthy bowel activity. Consequently, they should be fed at least three times each day. A typical Golden Retriever Puppy consumes around calories a day. Nutritional Requirements of Golden Retriever Puppy 1. Having a good measure of fats in their diet gives them a consolidated energy source for keeping up a functioning way of life. The unsaturated fats too help to brace their skin health. Omega Fatty Acids: Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids are vital elements in their diet for keeping strong bones and joints. It also offers good anti-inflammatory effect, that reduces pain and swelling in the joints. The kibble size and shape perfectly adapts to the jaws of a puppy Golden Retriever. Consists of natural fibres to promote excellent digestion in pups. Anti-oxidants build a strong defence mechanism in the pups. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large Breed: Biologically appropriate food that maintains supreme health and wellbeing in pups. Infusions of freeze-dried chicken and turkey liver make the food highly palatable. Natural sources of Glucosamine and Chondroitin keep strong muscles and joints. Clinically proven anti-oxidants maintain a strong immunity in puppies. Unlike puppies, most grown up Golden Retrievers are satisfied with 2 meals per day. Taurine keeps good cardiac function and also healthy eyesight in the dogs. Contains dietary fibres that keep healthy gut and excellent digestive functioning. Extensive protein content to enhance muscle mass and strength. High quality meat and rice offering greater taste and nutritional value. The low glycemic index of the food eliminates obesity and diabetes in the dogs. Pumpkin as an ingredient regulates intestinal motility. They become less active and therefore a little vulnerable to obesity. It is critical to nourish them with low-calorie sustenance as it keeps an ideal body weight and consequently puts less pressure on the joints. Also owing to their low exercise requirements, they only consume around Calories daily. Low Carbohydrate Content: A diet that has low carbs keeps a healthy blood sugar level in the dog, thus eliminating diabetes and obesity. High Fibre Content: Nature Fibres are essential for Senior Golden Retrievers for keeping an ideal body weight and excellent digestive health. Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Having traces of Glucosamine and Chondrotin in the diet of a senior Golden Retriever, alleviate pain produced in bones and joints. Best Foods For Senior Golden Retrievers 1 Orijen Senior Food In case you are searching for organically proper sustenance that has a low glycemic record that keeps diabetes and obesity at bay in your senior Golden Retrievers, you can have Orijen Senior Food which is effectively the best eating regimen for senior Golden Retrievers. A low carb content keeps an ideal weight and a healthy blood sugar level. Highly delicious meal having fresh Free Run Chicken and Turkey tempts the fussiest of eaters. It comprises of edible protein supporting pure osmosis of supplements and furthermore has L-Carnitine which consumes the abundance of fat stores in the body. The ideal ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 controls blood clotting and maintains the health and sheen of the coat. Essential vitamins and minerals keep a robust immune system. Below are some of the foods that should not be given to a Golden Retriever: 1. Raw Eggs. Small Pets Indian Homemade Food that can be given to Labradors and Golden Retriever Dog Breeds Pet dogs are so very aligned as first of the kin in most dog loving Indian homes that it is impossible not to share the human food tid bits with them. The pleading gaze of big brown eyes are hard to avoid and it seems almost cruel at that time to not share our food. But there is always an apprehension regarding the suitability of the human food for our dogs and puppies. Premium commercial dog food brands like Royal Canin , Hills Science plan and Solid Gold Dog Food offer complete and balanced nutrition to assure fulfillment of all basic needs of the pet. In respect to the safety and health of the dogs , you would be glad to know that there are plenty of human foods which the dog can eat to acquire protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. So one does need to walk consciously, but anddo understand that most things which are healthy for you may not be as healthy or even fatal for our four-legged companion. Boiled or scrambled egg, chicken, fish, mutton, beef, pork are all commonly eaten at home and are good sources of protein and fats. Chicken is being a popular dish in most non-vegetarian Indian kitchens is often shared with the home grown and stray dogs, pl ensure to avoid any dinner table offering that entails onion, garlic, excess oil and spices. Even cooked chicken bones are not recommended as it is brittle and may cause oral injuries and in some cases even fatal obstructions in the intestines of dogs that will be required to remove surgically. Grains and Pulses Whole grains like brown rice, wheat, oats, barley, millet and quinoa and pulses supply various important nutrients to the dog. A blend of brown rice and mashed boiled vegetables constitutes an easy and good healthy meal for your furry friend. Some of the dogs can be allergic to wheat; for rest of the doggie population it can be safely eaten in the form of chapatti Indian wheat bread and whole wheat pasta without salt, sugar and acidic sauces. Soybeans also go well with dogs, provided your dog is not sensitive to it. Whole wheat or brown breads can be fed in small quantities. Do not feed these 10 foods to your dog. Storehouse of important vitamins, minerals and fibres, fruits and vegetables are naturally low in calories. They not only make one healthy and energized but also cut the risks of several diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease and certain cancers. Though low in calories, any fruit or vegetable carry the risk of upsetting the stomach in case of excessive intake. Fruits Fruits are a great power snack to quench in-between meal time hunger. Banana, oranges without rinds , watermelon, muskmelon, berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries , mango are great fruits for dogs. Serving a blend of fruits to the dog, cut into chewable pieces, mixing various flavours, will make fruits more interesting for the dogs. While feeding an apple, just take a very good care to remove all the seeds as they are poisonous for the dog. Certain seeds, like apple seeds contain cyanide which may not be harmful for us because of the small dose of toxins. But the same dose can prove poisonous to our dogs. Grapes and raisins are a complete No-No for the dogs; they can cause irreversible kidney damage — just keep the dogs away from them. Vegetables Boiled, cooked, peeled, raw or as scraps — vegetables are good for your dog. The fresh and crunchy vegetables like carrots, broccoli, cucumbers and spinach are good for health and do a lot of good to the teeth of the dog as well. Sweet potatoes, green beans, pumpkin, bottle guard, peas, tomatoes compulsorily ripe and potatoes boiled or mashed are also much loved veggies. Onions are not be ingested by the dogs in any form raw, cooked, dried, powered as it can damage the red blood cells of the canine. Garlic is also capable of harming the red blood cells of the dog; some people argue that garlic in small quantities act as natural antibiotic. Raw veggies can be eaten by dog but when it comes to relatively greater quantity, the vegetables should be boiled and then mashed or cut into chewable pieces. Treats In small amounts, our canine partners can enjoy cottage cheese, peanut butter, popcorns sans salt and butter , sunflower seeds shelled and plain white yogurt. More natural and plain a treat is — minimum sugar, salts, preservatives — more will they suit the health of your dog. BUT do remember that chocolate, coffee, macadamia nuts, raisins are toxic for your pet. Be very careful with them. Certain dogs, just like humans, can be lactose intolerant; apart from them, milk, in moderate quantities, can be safely digested by all dogs. Cottage cheese is loved by most dogs. Curd and buttermilk are also good sources of prebiotics and calcium. It is recommended that before you offer a new food item to your pet you should consult your vet. Allergies and reactions to particular food stuffs would vary from dog to dog, so it is a good habit to observe your dog each time you feed it a new eatable. Care should be taken to avoid artificial sugar and have minimal salts pinch of salt a day would suffice. About Shikha Sharma Shikha Sharma believes that Mother Earth is our mutual abode, where all creatures have an equal right to live with dignity. This belief is clearly reflected in her wonderful writing pieces that revolve around animals and their well-being. She is the blog editor of Pets World. More like this.
Articles As a dog lover looking for their first dog, you definitely want a small and adorable pooch that will show you lots of affection. If this sounds like you, you should consider getting yourself the Brindle Pug. So, what exactly is a Brindle Pug? A Brindle Pug is a rare version of the Pug breed that comes with a patterned brindle coat instead of the usual fawn or black coat. Many Pug lovers prefer the Brindle Pug because it is not as common as other Pug colors. Are you considering purchasing the Brindle Pug, but you are not sure whether this is the right Fido for you? In this article, I will share everything you need to know about the Brindle Pug, including how much they cost, their health issues and lifespan, their temperament, and so on. What Is A Brindle Pug? A Brindle Pug is a breed of Pug that comes with a brindle coat. Contrary to what most people think, brindle is not actually a color. Instead, it is a pattern consisting of black and a lighter color, resulting in a beautiful striped coat. In most cases, the coat of Brindle Pugs contains a mixture of black and silver. However, they can also have a mixture of black and fawn or black and apricot. This means that Brindle Pugs have a similar appearance to other Pugs. They have a flat, wrinkled face, large eyes that seem to bulge out of their sockets, a small body, short legs, and a curved tail. When fully matured, a Brindle Pug will be about 10 to 13 inches at the shoulder and will weigh between 14 to 18 lbs. The size of your Brindle Pug will also depend on whether it is male or female. Male Brindle Pugs are usually bigger than females. Are Brindle Pugs Full Blooded? Some pet owners express concerns about purchasing Brindle Pugs because of the assumption that Brindle Pugs are not purebreds. So, are Brindle Pugs full-blooded Pugs, or is the brindle pattern caused by genes from other breeds? DNA testing has shown that it is possible for a Brindle Pug to be purebred. However, brindle can also be caused by crossbreeding, so you need to confirm the genetic purity of a Brindle Pug before buying. Speaking of DNA testing, did you know that it can be done by ourselves without having to take a trip down to the vet? And, of course, it is a much cheaper DIY. Check out the best dog DNA test kits for more information. Are Brindle Pugs Rare? Brindle Pugs are very rare. There are two reasons why Brindle Pugs are so rare. First, the brindle gene itself is not very common. Second, the AKC does not officially recognize brindle as a standard color or pattern on Pugs. This means that most official breeders deliberately avoid breeding brindle puppies, thus making them even rarer. Image from Instagram: samiethepugg As a result of their rarity, people looking for unique, exotic-looking pets find Brindle Pugs to be very appealing. In addition, a lot of people find the brindle coat to be interesting compared to black or fawn. As a result, there is a lot of demand for Brindle Pugs, which means that a Brindle Pug will cost you more than other Pugs. Generally, purebred Brindle Pug puppies will cost you more. However, you should be very careful since some breeders might try to pass off a mixed breed Brindle Pug for a purebred and charge you a high price for it. The price of the puppy will also be affected by where you are purchasing the puppy. Aside from the cost of purchasing a Brindle Pug puppy, you should also prepare for the costs associated with taking care of your four-legged friend. These include feeding costs, veterinary costs and medications, grooming supplies, toys, and so on. That said, they still experience most of the health issues that standard Pugs are highly susceptible to. Eye Problems Most people love Pugs for their large, bulging eyes. However, the size of their eyes can be a cause of potential problems. Due to their large size, their eyes are at a high risk of getting pricked or scratched by various objects. They are also prone to conditions such as dry eye and corneal ulcers. Breathing Problems Dogs with flat, mushy faces, such as Brindle Pugs, tend to suffer from a condition known as the brachycephalic syndrome. Dogs with this condition usually have breathing conditions due to the narrowed nasal passages and trachea. Therefore, you should take care not to exert your canine too much, especially in hot conditions. Obesity All Pugs, including Brindle Pugs, love food very much. If you are not careful with them, they can easily overfeed and become overweight, something that can exacerbate their breathing problems. Therefore, you need to watch their diet and food portions very carefully. When it comes to feeding your Brindle Pug, we recommend dog food from Pet Plate. In addition to being highly nutritious and being made from all-natural ingredients, it comes in pre-portioned packages. Read more about our exclusive review on Pet Plate right here. Lifespan You can expect your Brindle Pug to live for about 12 to 15 years. Do Brindle Pugs Shed? This means that you should invest in a good de-shedding brush, such as the Pet Neat Grooming Brush. The good thing about Pugs is that they enjoy physical contact, so your brindle Pug will definitely enjoy all the attention you give during brushing. Best pet grooming tool! A durable shedding tool! With the.Healthy, shiny pet coat! Rid your four-legged friend of undercoat and loose hair effortlessly, and keep at bay allergies.Check Price on Amazon Bathing In addition to brushing, you also need to bathe your pooch regularly to prevent a bad smell and odor. Once every 2 to 4 weeks is enough. Bathing your Pug too often can result in skin problems. To avoid this, you need to carefully clean the skin between these folds and wrinkles. You can easily do this using pet wipes. Other Grooming Tips There are a couple of other things you need to do to keep your furry friend clean and tidy. Here is what you can expect from your cute little canine buddy. They will follow you everywhere, sit on your lap whenever they get a chance, and will expect to be touched and stroked whenever your hands are free. Do this, and your furry companion will always be happy. If you leave your Brindle Pug alone for too long, you might come back to find that they have chewed on your shoes or carpet. They Are Quick Learners Despite the regular assumption that Pugs are dumb, nothing could be further from the truth. Pugs are smart animals that you can easily train. However, they can also be quite stubborn, so you need to be patient yet firm with them during training. Pugs are also very observant and will quickly learn how to read your moods and emotions. Since they are smart dogs that can easily get bored, you can also expect your Brindle Pug to get into lots of mischiefs. They Are Very Friendly Pugs were born to create love, not war. Therefore, you can expect your Brindle Pug to get friendly with everyone, from your kids and your friends to the other pets in your household. Unfortunately, their friendly nature means that they will not make good guard dogs. In reverse Brindle Pugs, the darker color is usually more prominent, giving the dog the appearance of having light stripes over the darker color. This is exactly the opposite of a regular Brindle Pug. The lighter color, for the case of a regular Brindle Pug, is more prominent, giving the dog the appearance of having a light coat with dark stripes. What Colors Are Pugs? Pugs come in a wide variety of colors, such as black, fawn, apricot, silver, and white. However, according to the AKC, there are two Pug colors: black and fawn. All the other colors are still considered to be Fawn Pugs. When a Pug has a mixture of black and any of the other colors, it is considered to be a Brindle Pug. What Is A Panda Pug? Panda Pugs are Pugs that have both black and white color patches on their coat, which makes them resemble pandas. Their resemblance to a panda makes them very cute, plus the fact that some of them have blue eyes. However, Panda Pugs are also very rare. It is a coat color variation of the standard Pug breed. All Pugs come from the same place — B. China — where they were bred to be lap dogs or companion dogs for Chinese royalty. At least, there is no concrete proof. Today, the Pug is a small dog breed. They usually weigh around 16 to 19 pounds, and they are up to 11 inches tall. There are also Teacup Pugs — a smaller version of the standard Pug. As for their coat color, I mentioned that the AKC accepts only two coat colors: black and fawn. But, there are many non-standard coat colors, like our brindle Pug or even a white Pug. Are They Purebred? The assumption that brindle Pugs are not purebred comes from the fact that the American Kennel Club only accepts two coat colors of Pugs. This, on the other hand, comes from the belief that these were the original coat colors of the first Pugs. No other colors were present at the beginning of making the Pug breed, and reputable breeders working according to the AKC Pug breed standards have the goal of following these breeding program rules. This dog is such an old breed that it is impossible to keep track of every dog and breeding program in the whole world. Those who oppose the thought that they are purebred say that brindle Pugs were made by cross-breeding. They say brindle Pugs are designer or hybrid dogs — in other words, mixed dogs. A designer or a hybrid dog is a dog made by cross-breeding two purebred dogs. In this case, some say that a purebred Pug was crossbred with another dog breed that had the brindle coat color. Is There Proof? No, there is no proof that a brindle Pug is a mixed dog. What does this tell us? It tells us that there are purebred brindle Pugs, and that there are some designer brindle Pugs. In other words, Pugs are very popular all around the world, not just in the States. The fact that they are so popular and such an old breed at the same time, tells us that there are many breeding programs, and Pug breeders in the U. Some of these breeding programs make a brindle Pug by using other brindle dog breeds. And, some of these breeding programs keep the line pure and use only true, pureblooded brindle Pugs to make more brindle Pug doggies. Are purebred brindle Pugs rare? They most certainly are! They have been rare in the past, and they are rare now. What Do They Look Like? Photo from: sirelliotthepug The brindle Pug looks just like any other dog of this breed, except for the color, of course. They have a unique coat pattern called brindle. This pattern is what makes them so rare. This thumbprint is actually a small black patch on their head. The stripes are not well separated, and they usually blend with each other, making patches of dark-brown or black color. Besides color, they are small, stocky, and muscular dogs, with famous wrinkles on their face just like the rest of the Pugs. These types of dogs are called brachycephalic dog breeds, and besides Pugs, there are other breeds with this physical characteristic; for example, French Bulldogs, Pekingese, Boxers, etc. These problems have nothing to do with the brindle pattern on their coat. During the developmental process of a dog that is inside the uterus, all dog colors start from only two pigments — a black one, called eumelanin, and a red one, called pheomelanin. All other colors develop from these two pigments. Genes play the main role in the further development of all other colors. There are 8 genes responsible for coat color variations in dogs. And, furthermore, each locus has two alleles — one from each parent. Bear with me — the most complicated part is behind us. Our brindle Pugs have an E locus or extension locus that gives them a black muzzle, and they have a K locus that makes their coat brindle. Of course, even though these two loci are the most dominant, they interact with other loci as well. Depending on this interaction, a Pug can also have a coat color, which is called a reverse brindle Pug. A reverse brindle Pug has a much darker base coat color — almost black, which makes the stripes appear lighter. So, instead of having a Pug with dark stripes on a brown coat, this Pug looks like a black Pug with light-brown stripes. Do Brindle Pugs Behave Differently? They are Pugs, and as such, they have the same personality traits as the rest of the dogs of this breed. No… every dog is unique, with its own doggy personality. But, hundreds of years of deliberate breeding programs have made this dog breed one of the best dogs for almost any dog owner. What are the traits of the best dog for any pet owner? Affectionate And Adjustable These dogs were bred to be companion dogs. A lap dog is very affectionate with its owner, and easily and quickly adapts to any living quarters. No matter if you live in a huge farmhouse with a big yard, or downtown, Pugs are small, and they adjust to any kind of lifestyle. This breed of dog is not very famous for long walks or hikes with its owner. They go for short walks, easy play, and certainly no hikes. Another amazing fact is that these dogs get along very well with children of all ages, and they go quite well with other dogs no matter the breed. They are very playful and mischievous. Toss them a toy and enjoy the spectacle. They have breathing problems that we will talk about, so keeping their play balanced is the key to their happy life. This is another trait that makes them perfect for apartment living. No one is going to complain about your barking dog in the middle of the night. Trainable There are many reasons why this color variation of the Pug breed is so popular… not just because they are rare, and we all know people want what they cannot have or what is hard to get. It is also because they are so easy to train. Why is that? Well, we have to go way back to the Chinese emperors who wanted these dogs in the first place. The entire personality of a brindle Pug and any other Pug revolves around its owner. They want to please their owner, and they want to do what their owner wants them to do. That means if you want to teach your doggo to sit and roll — they will sit and roll. Do you want to show a new trick to your friends and teach your Pug to give a paw on command? Pugs are trainable, and they will quickly learn what they should and should not do. But, you will have to use positive reinforcement. Separation Anxiety With all that affection and love in their cute, bulgy eyes comes a problem — separation anxiety. This problem occurs when a dog is too attached to its owner. They might bark, become destructive, cry or whine, carry a toy around , etc. As I already mentioned, this dog was made to be a human companion. They easily get attached to their owner, and just as easily get too emotional when they are left alone for a long time. If your schedule suddenly changes because… life happens , then there are ways to keep your dog distracted as much as possible while you are gone. You can give your brindle Pug some interactive dog toys for him to play with. Some people leave soothing music on or special soothing sounds for their pooches while they are away, or you can get another dog or another pet — if that is possible. Photo from: sirelliotthepug Unfortunately, a Pug can have a lot of health issues. This is the main reason for the question — should I get a Pug? This question goes much deeper. What is the problem? It is in their skull anatomy and consequential abnormal tissue development, which makes it very hard for them to breathe properly. This is called Brachycephalic syndrome, and it is common in other dog breeds as well. Actually, dog breeds with this syndrome are already banned in Norway and the Netherlands, while some other countries e. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome The name comes from two Greek words — brachy, and cephalic. The first one means short, and the latter one means head. What exactly does that mean: Their muzzle is short. Pug Dog Colors Overview Pugs can be found in four major colors, though not all are standard colors with certain kennel clubs. The two most common colors are fawn and black. Silver and apricot can also be seen with this breed, and while not standard colors per the AKC, these colors are indeed recognized by the FCI and other kennel clubs. Brindle Pugs do exist, though this is not without some controversy. All non-black Pugs have black masks and black ears. There are some unique color markings that can appear on Pugs which include the trace and the thumbprint, found only on non-black Pugs. This section will cover all of the details regarding Pug colors, both standard and alternate, as well as various markings and other color-related elements. But, of course, since other colors exist, an AKC Pug can be silver also known as silver-fawn , apricot also known as apricot-fawn , or even the rare and controversial brindle. If you have a Pug with a non-standard color silver-fawn, apricot, or even brindle , as of the time of this writing, if you register your Pug via postal mail not online and send in photos of your Pug that clearly shows the non-standard coat, the AKC will usually grant you a registration with the appropriate color or pattern listed as an alternate color. Though a Pug of any color can be registered, this does not mean the color is accepted in the show ring. For AKC conformation events, any color other than fawn or black is a disqualification. It should be noted that the AKC, which follows the guidelines set forth by the Pug Dog Club of America, used to accept both silver and apricot-fawn. If you are in the US, where most Pugs are either fawn or black, keep in mind that owners from 27 countries took part in the survey. Other well-recognized kennel clubs such as the FCI and KC make this much easier, since they accept apricot and silver coat colors in the show ring. And, the CKC allows distinction between fawn and sliver, by having 'silver-fawn' as an option. With these clubs, fawn is a light to medium cream. However, because the AKC will register a fawn as a fawn and an apricot or a silver as a fawn because they are non-black Pugs , but can also grant a registration for an apricot or silver to be as such via an alternate color, an AKC fawn Pug may truly be a fawn ranging from light cream to medium cream or technically be a silver or apricot more ahead on these colors. All non-black Pugs, including fawn, have black ears and black masks more ahead on this. Variances: Fawns are not always solid, there are variances in the coat. Many Pugs have a trace which is a stripe of back-tipped hairs running down the back that break up the fawn color. And, it is not uncommon for two shades of fawn to be seen within one coat; for example, a light cream fawn can blend into a light apricot-fawn. The wrinkles on a Pug are also responsible for color variances since a thumbprint may be present which is black fur in the creases and folds of the forehead. AKC Color Disqualification: Though fawn has a range of light to medium, the AKC does make it clear that anything other than fawn or black is a disqualification in the show ring. This refers to not only what the registration papers say but by what color is seen in person during the competition. Since there is sometimes a blurred line between silver and fawn or apricot and fawn, this can make things tricky. These colors are found all throughout the world, but in the US, show breeders focus on keeping the fawn a fawn without silver or apricot tones. Examples of Fawn Pugs: Dubi at 6 years old, a fawn Pug photo courtesy of Carmina Bautista Poppy, at 4 months old, a Pug with a combination of light and medium fawns photo courtesy of Maria Silver Fawn and Silver Overview: This is a color that is not overly common with Pugs; though, many owners of silver or silver fawn Pugs can easily be labeling their dogs as fawn, especially if that is what the registration papers state. Because, as the name implies, silver fawn is a type of fawn. It is very light and is in fact the lightest color that a Pug can be. The AKC does not recognize this as a standard color, but may grant a request for a silver-fawn Pug to be registered as such via an alternate color, and if so, generally only responds to requests that are sent via postal mail. Both the FCI and KC allow for silver and the CKC allows for silver-fawn; both are essentially the same coat color but are referred to with these different terms. With some other breeds, this sort of orange hue is referred to as fawn like with Boxers or as orange like with Pomeranians. But, with Pugs, this is a nice, shiny orange hue that is set apart from the more common fawn coat. It is very common for apricot Pugs to not be fully apricot; there may be some fawn or even an almost white color found in patches, most often on the chest. Though, just like silver or silver fawn, this is also a color that may be present in the coat, but owners refer to their Pugs as simply 'fawn', especially if that is what the registration papers deem the Pug to be. And, just like other non-standard AKC colors, an apricot Pug may be registered as a fawn or as an apricot if the owner requests for this alternate coloring to appear on the document. With the CKC, apricot is not its own color, but rather their definition of fawn includes all shades in the fawn family including light to deep apricot. Apricot Pugs have black masks and black ears. And, just like all non-black Pugs, a trace and a thumbprint are desired in the show ring of all well-recognized kennel clubs. Example of an Apricot Pug: Peggie, at 4 years old, a registered apricot Pug photo courtesy of Susi R Ludlow Black Pugs Overview: It is rather amazing how very different the two main colors of Pugs are; fawn is a very light cream with black ears and mask, and black Pugs are just about the complete opposite with a rich, dark black coat. Of course, the ears and mask are black too, but there is no discernible difference since the entire Pug is black. Many black Pugs have solid coats, but it is possible for there to be a small white marking; if this is present, it is usually on the chest. As Pugs age into their senior years, gray hairs may appear on the face or in different areas of the body and this is much more noticeable with black Pugs. Examples of Black Pugs: Henry, at 10 months old photo courtesy of Maxine Aird Pearl photo courtesy of Saz Race Wonder how much exercise Pugs need and how to keep activity safe for this brachycephalic breed? Check out Pug Dog Exercise. Brindle Pugs Overview: Brindle is a pattern of interlocking light and dark colors which creates a striping effect. With Pugs, this is typically in the grey to black range. This type of coat pattern is found with quite a few other dog breeds including the Bull Terrier, Boxer, and American Bulldog. The Debate: Many wonder if a purebred brindle Pug can even exist. The answer is yes. This said, there are some explanations to be given. On one hand is the argument that brindle does not exist within the Pug's bloodline. It is true that this is not a color pattern that should be seen with today's breeding programs since it is not a standard color. One of the goals of reputable breeders is to produce dogs that come as close to breed standards as possible. So, brindle is not something that most breeders would strive for and any champion dogs would not have recessive brindle genes. But, did brindle appear in the bloodline at some point in the past? The answer is, yes, it very well could have. This goes back, in part, to the fact that every single dog breed that exists to day was developed from the pairing of other breeds. As to which breeds, exactly, were used to develop the Pug is unknown. We know that this breed was developed in China. Somewhere around B. And he was indeed successful. Therefore, the first element to note is that no one can say if, looking back, brindle is or is not found in the Pug's bloodline. In fact, paintings from the 's show Pug dogs with brindle coats. This said, those brindle lines most likely died out. It has also been debated that brindle Pugs are a myth since the gene responsible for the pattern is dominant and would 'take over' the entire Pug breed with eventually only brindles existing, making fawns and black obsolete. But, that point is not accurate. Brindle exists in other breeds and does not take over. One example is the Boxer dog in which there are both brindles and fawns. So, if there are brindle Pugs, however rare, where does the brindle come from? The answer is that brindle was introduced into the bloodline via another breed at some point. For each individual Pug, this could be recent or it could be many generations in the past. This may seem contradictory. As time goes by, a random brindle is thrown every now and then. Examples of Brindle Pugs: Luna at 8 months old, a brindle Pug photo courtesy of Brenda photo courtesy of Mike Dillow Color Changes It is normal for a Pug puppy's coat to change coat color to a certain degree as he or she is maturing from pup to adolescent. With fawn Pugs, the coat may lighten or darken, predominately during the first year. It's not uncommon for there to be smuttiness at a young age which is the term for black hairs intermingled with a light color coat. This may remain, lighten, darken, or fade in other areas except for a line running down the center of the back which is known as a trace. The ears and mask may darken into a more solid black as a Pug grows. For example, here we see Yoda as a young puppy first photo below on mobile with a fawn base and lots of black hairs running through the coat referred to as smuttiness - details ahead. And, then we can see Yoda as a 3-year-old adult Pug second photo below on mobile , the fawn is much lighter and the black-tipped hairs are now a much more faded trace that runs down her back. The black mask has darkened and her head wrinkles are fully developed. There can be other color changes as well. Apricot tones may not appear until a Pug is a bit older; so, a Pug that is registered as a fawn may very well be an apricot. Another change that typically happens with black Pugs, but may also be seen on some fawns, is that hairs around the muzzle and face may gray as a Pug transitions into the senior years. If this occurs, it is generally starts around the 8 year mark and increases in time. Wondering how much sleep a Pug needs and ways to help this breed achieve a good night's rest? Check out Pug Dog Sleep. Smuttiness If you take a very closeup look at a light-colored Pug, you may see a scattering of a few black hairs over the body and this is generally not enough to classified a Pug has having smuttiness. Smuttiness on a Pug refers to a noticeable overlay of black hairs on a light coat fawn, silver, silver-fawn, apricot, or apricot-fawn. These patches of black hairs are thin enough to see the lighter hairs underneath, however it gives an overall appearance of a "haze". The more there is, either in density or coverage, the more smuttiness a Pug has. Note that black or darker hairs are desired in certain places on a Pug; running down the center of the back the trace and on the forehead the thumbprint - more ahead on both of these markings. But, when there is an overabundance of these black hairs in areas other than the forehead wrinkles or the back, the term smuttiness is then used. Smuttiness may appear in just about any area on a Pug including the saddle back , flanks, legs, and head. In the show world, this is not a disqualification, however it is considered to be a fault points are deducted. Example of Smuttiness on a Pug: Winston at 11 years old; this is an example of heavy smuttiness on the head. Though not something rewarded for in the show ring, there is no denying how cute this Pug looks. In fact, this is such a heavy intermingling of black hairs that Winston almost looks like a half fawn and half black Pug dog. The trace may begin on the nape of the neck or further down the back. It will run in a predominantly straight line, ending at the base of the tail. The thickness and the density of the trace can vary. Though a trace is a very desired trait in conformation dog shows, not all non-black Pugs have this marking. A trace may be very apparent during the puppy years and then fade as a Pug matures. On the flip side, this marking may not show at all during the newborn phase and then become apparent as the Pug grows. This particular element is considered to be an official marking of the breed and is thought to give Pugs character. In the show ring, the blacker the trace, the better. That said, if your Pug does not have a trace, this is nothing to be concerned about. If, however, when Pugs are being considered for a breeding program with the goal of producing show quality dogs, those with no trace at all are often excluded since this is a heredity trait. Example of a Trace on a Pug: Do you have a Pug and are worried about leaving them home alone? Find helpful tips for Pug Dog Separation Anxiety. The Thumbprint A Pug's thumbprint, also referred to as a thumb mark or diamond, is a darkened spot centered on the forehead. This, of course, is not seen on Pugs with black coats. Though this is another desired trait when Pugs are judged in conformation events, not all non-black Pugs have a thumbprint. Another way to look at this is that approximately 3 out of 4 non-black Pugs have a thumbprint or thumb mark. Though it is sometimes called a diamond, it may resemble an oval, a circle, or be an irregular shape. While the wrinkles on the forehead can cause shading that may appear to be a thumb mark, the thumb mark is actually a splash of darker color on the fur. This type of marking is usually present at birth. It is rare for a Pug born without this to develop one as he ages. When a young pup has a small thumbprint marking, it may grow larger or become darker as a Pug ages and matures. Example of a Thumbprint on a Pug: This is Tommy, a Pug with a nice thumbprint on his deep forehead wrinkles. This is an area of black that typically starts under the chin, covers the muzzle, and extends around the eyes. Though this is the general description, the mask can vary quite a bit on Pugs. One element to take note of is that the black may be mainly on the muzzle and then again with black fur around the eyes with little connection between the two points or, quite contrary to that, black may extend from the muzzle to the eye area with no interruption at all. In addition, while a very dark black mask is desired in the conformation show ring, the black mask on some Pugs may contain any number of fawn or lighter-colored hairs. This can range from medium to dark brown and eyes can be so dark that they almost appear black. With canine breed standards, the term dark means dark brown. Coat color does not affect eye color; for example, a fawn Pug does not automatically have lighter eyes than a black Pug. You may be curious to know if Pugs can have blue eyes. Blue is not in this breed's genetic code. However, similar to humans, dogs are usually born with dark blue eyes due to low levels of melanin in the eyes. The eyes darken as melanin levels naturally increase. This transition is usually complete by week six or seven. White Paws Can a Pug have mitted, white paws? The term 'mitted' is often used with cats since it is much more common for felines to have this type of color marking. It refers to coloring that falls on the paws that is different than the main body color, as if the animal is wearing mittens. White paws on a Pug is not common at all and is considered a major fault in the show ring; however, it can happen. This Pug below has a fawn coat and white markings on the paws and on the chest. Both photos are of Mr. Mittens, at 3 months old; photos courtesy of Suzanne White markings like this are able to exist due to the parti-factor gene. This very same color gene is responsible for small white markings on the chest that are occasionally seen with Pugs of all colors. Rarely, the parti-factor is thrown to one, some, or all paws, resulting in purebred Pugs with white mitted paws. Are you taking care of your Pug's teeth? For this brachycephalic breed, dental care is very important. Learn how to keep your Pug's teeth clean and healthy. Behavior and Personality Traits Based on Color Many people wonder if there are inbred character traits that vary depending on the coat color of the Pug. As with any other breed, the coloring of the coat has no effect on energy level, personality, behavioral quirks or any other element. But, it is easy to leap to the belief that color matters in this regard. An owner may have a black Pug that is more energetic than his fawn counterpart, for example. However, there are just as many owners who have energetic fawns compared to laid back black Pugs. Each dog is an individual, and Pugs will have their own unique personalities, regardless of coat color. Differences in Coat and Shedding Most Pugs have coats consisting of two layers of fur, an inner and an outer coat. Some, but not all black Pugs are single coated. For this reason, a percentage of black coated Pugs may shed less in comparison to fawn, apricots or slivers. And, the color of your carpeting and furniture can affect how much shedding you notice. Fur that sheds from a black Pug onto light-colored surfaces is going to be much more noticeable than fur that falls from a fawn Pug. And, fur that sheds from a fawn Pug onto dark surfaces is going to be much more visible than fur that falls from a black Pug. Though it's not suggested to buy furniture and flooring that matches your Pug, this is something to keep in mind. Did you find this to be informative? See what's inside. Related: Black Pug Dogs - More photos of black Pug puppies and dogs with a recap of color information. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Can a non-standard colored pug still be registered with a kennel club? For example: the AKC recognizes two pug colors as breed standard, fawn and black. These are the colors required for a pug to be a show dog and compete in the ring. They are the breed standard. However, a non-fawn or black pug can still be AKC registered — they will just not be allowed in the show ring. Silver-fawn, apricot, and even rare and controversial colors like brindle, can be registered with the AKC and listed as an alternate color. So, if you see a non-standard colored pug listed as registered with the AKC, it is entirely possible. You can read it here. The pug breed standard is the blueprint for the breed, and the target for which breeders should aim. The Pug Dog Club of America firmly states that: All reputable breeders of pugs are not interested in the development of any color of pug other than fawn or black. The most common pug colors: Fawn Pug Fawn is the most common pug color. Their muzzle or mask, and ears, should be as black as possible. Black Pug Even though fawn is the most common color of pug, the black gene is dominant. Black pugs have a rich, dark coat, and their muzzle or mask, and ears are black too. Silver-fawn and Silver Pugs Silver-fawn is oftentimes labeled as a type of fawn. They have a shiny gray sheen to their coats and are the lightest color a pug can be. Silver-fawn pugs are pretty rare, and many who have them categorize them as fawns, instead of silver-fawns. Apricot Pugs Apricot pugs have warm undertones of orange in their coats. The hues of orange are richer and deeper in color than the common fawn coloring. They include:. However, it can be a little difficult to find one because they are so unusual. A brindle pug is a type of pug that has a patterned coat rather than a solid color. A brindle pug will have a light brown coat with black markings. A reverse brindle pug has a slightly darker appearance and is the opposite of the brindle color. Instead of a light brown coat, a reverse brindle pug has a black coat with light brown markings. Common Health Problems of Brindle Pugs Brachycephalic Syndrome — is a common respiratory problem in short-nosed dogs because their airways are pushed closer together. This medical concern can make it more difficult for the dog to breathe and increase their heart rate. Encephalitis — This condition results in painful inflammation throughout the brain. Hip Dysplasia — Can cause the pug to develop irregular joints in their hips. This can lead to leg lameness, difficulty standing, and mobility concerns. Most of the time this can be treated with the help of medications or surgery. Obesity — This dog breed is prone to excessive weight gain because of their vast appetite. Obesity in pugs can cause many problems including lethargy and trouble breathing. Cherry Eye — Pugs are susceptible to cherry eye. This condition causes a small gland to slide out of place under the eyelid and slightly block a portion of their eye. While not considered to be painful, it can be very uncomfortable and itchy. Because of their docile and forgiving temperament, brindle pugs also make great pets for first-time dog owners. While a good breed, some brindle pugs can be a little sensitive to being left alone. This could result in them having separation anxiety. Are Brindle Pugs Good with Kids? Are They Good Family Dogs? Brindle pugs can make great family pets. They are loving and very caring toward children. However, they need to be properly socialized. Despite their small size, brindle pugs do shed a lot. This breed will lose a lot of hair throughout the year but has a heavy shedding period two times during it — summer and winter. Brindle pug owners will need to make sure to brush their pet often to remove this loose hair. Brindle pugs are rare. Due to their rareness, it can be a challenge to find a brindle pug breeder. Because brindle pugs are rare they can be somewhat pricey. You can use the following tips to ensure you buy from a responsible one. Research — One way to tell if the breeder is reputable is by researching them. Check if the breeder has a website and if previous customers have left reviews about them. Visit Their Home or Breeding Facility — This way, you can tell if they keep their dogs in good living conditions. The canines should have clean and open places to sleep and play. While here, the breeder might also ask a little about yourself and your residence. By doing so, they can ensure their brindle pugs will go to a good home. You can check these to make sure the dogs are up-to-date on their shots and that they are healthy. Brindle pugs are smart and loyal dogs who make great companions. Uncovering the mystery of the brindle pug puppy The appeal of a brindle-coated pug dog The attraction of brindle pug puppies is two-fold. First there is the general attraction in a cute pug with this attractive quality to the coat. The brindle markings are an interesting look in many dogs and they offer a whole new look compared to the deep black or fawn animals. On top of this, there is the potential rarity of the animal, which increases the appeal for those looking for an exotic animal. It is going to be more difficult to find brindle pugs for sale compared to black or fawn ones, and the reasons for this will soon become clear. This is understandable when we look at the issues of mixed breeding. There are so many cross breeds and designer pups these days that there are many cross breeds with pug as part of the genetic package. These genetic mixes mean that other coat types and color genes can come through from the other side. This is why we often see a brindle pug chihuahua mix or a pug crossed with a Frenchie. As a result, there is that assumption that a brindle pug is not a pure pug. In some cases this will be true. However, there are exceptions to the rule. There are still pure breed brindle pug dogs out there, even if some dog owners are adamant that there is no such thing. Test for medication sensitivities. The reason for these results simply comes down to the fact that these pugs have a long history and there is still a small percentage of animals with genetic links to their brindled ancestors. It is a rarity, but it is not a deformity. Despite this, some owners will still face some issues with their brindle pug. Purebred pug or not, there are still some issues with this coat color when it comes to showing these dogs The American Kennel Club. Along with a number of other organisations, have clear breed standard for all dogs. There are strict rules on the physical features and markings of pugs. For example, a fawn pug needs to have that mask, the trail on the back and the thumbprint on the forehead. In fact, it is only fawn and black pugs that are eligible under the AKC guidelines. This means that brindle coated pugs — even if they are pure — are as ineligible as apricot pugs and silver ones. What to expect from these dogs in terms of physicality So if a brindle dog coat is significantly different from that of a fawn or a black pug, does that mean that there are any other physical differences to keep in mind? The gene for the color of the coat should have no effect on their size, build or other physical features. If a brindle pup happens to be healthier or sicker, bigger or smaller than its siblings. The difference comes when you have a brindle pug mix instead of a pure pup. As the dog gets older, physical traits of the other breed will begin to develop further and you will need to research the potential health risks associated with that parent. This could also mean a different grooming regime than normal if the fur type is slightly different. There are always those owners that will insist that one color is calmer, friendlier or smarter than the other, but these reports are often contradictory. Temperaments are generally pretty similar and personalities alter from dog to dog. The same is therefore true with a pure brindle vs a pure fawn or black. Again, the difference comes when we have the mixed breeds rather than the pure breeds. The personality traits, behavioral issues and the intelligence could be heavily influenced by the second parent. This means another area of research for new owners. This is where online training resources like Doggy Dan the online trainer are so helpful. Further Reading: How to Train Your Pug Puppy Taking care of brindle-coat pugs These factors with the physicality and personality mean that the considerations for taking care of brindle pugs are pretty much the same. A true brindle pug is so much like other purebred pugs in terms of its needs that experienced owners have nothing to worry about, they want the same exercise, home environment, pug food and general love and care. If you know how to handle a pug, you can handle a brindle. Again, mixed breed pug dogs are a different story. The exercise needs, grooming needs, housing requirements and ideal family set-up could be different. Image Source: Pugs of Instagram Finding brindle pug puppies for sale Hopefully you can now see why it is more difficult to find a breeder for a brindle dog than a black of fawn one. The first issue is the rarity of the pure brindle pug because of the genetics and prominence of other coat types. Then there is issue that some of these brindle dogs are not pugs but pug crosses. This is why all buyers should visit the home, see the litter and get to know the parents. This is the best way to be sure of the genetics of the pup and the reason for the brindle coat. The other issue with looking at a pure brindle dog is the brindle pug cost. The rarity of the pure brindle means that breeders are sure to charge a much higher brindle pug price than for a standard coat color. Those that are looking for a brindle animal but want to avoid the issues with breeder and these high costs may prefer the option of brindle pug adoption. Adoption through shelters offers the chance for new owners to save the life of an abandoned pet. The fees to do so are considerably lower than the price of a puppy. Uncovering the mystery of the brindle pug puppy The good news here for those keen on a brindle pug puppy is that there is such a thing as a pure brindle pug pup. There is a small number of dogs born with the rare gene instead of the more typical coat colors. However, there will still be many brindle dogs for sale that are actually hybrids, so all hopeful buyers need to be vigilant and do their research. Aside from the issue of the AKC standards for showing, there is no major problem in buying a brindle pug dog if one happens to come up for sale and is from healthy stock and a good home. At their core, the pure brindle pugs is no different to the others. They have the same needs, personalities and traits and can be lovable, wonderful pets. Pugs truly have a distinct look to them. Brindle Pugs are the same. When people think of Pugs, most think of two colors; fawn tan or black. So, what exactly is a brindle Pug? Well, it all comes down to the pattern of their coat. What is Brindle? A big misconception people have is the word brindle refers to a specific color. When, in fact, brindle is a pattern. Many dog breeds can have a brindle pattern in their coat. These breeds include greyhounds, boxers, and terriers. Guinea pigs and even horses can have this mysterious brindle pattern as well. So, a brindle Pug could look speckled like a fudge brownie or like an Oreo. Brindle Pugs are elusive and remain a mystery to this day. Brindle Pugs are hard to find, even on Google. Their rarity is what makes them so exclusive and challenging to find and buy or adopt. Or, perhaps it is because the United States finds it difficult to classify them. Brindle Pugs colors do not fit in with the traditional Pug colors. This confuses the public and makes them even more desirable. No one knows precisely where to place brindle Pugs. Who knows, maybe the confusion over their coats make them exclusive. Their exclusivity makes them more attractive, and adoptions are on the rise. This includes buying a car, a house, and adopting their precious furry friend. Most adopters wanting a Pug will assume the Pug will be tan or black. Out of all the Pugs, 65 percent are fawn color, and 22 percent are black color. Few adopters will know brindle Pugs even exist because they are the rarest. Only about 1 percent of Pugs are brindle. Because brindle stripes are rare in Pugs, they could be considered exotic. Once an adopter is aware brindle Pugs exist, they could become more attractive and want a Pug that is so unique. After digging myself, it is clear this exotic looking Pug might not be the most sought after the litter. Are They Really Purebred Pugs? There is a significant concern with the legitimacy of brindle Pugs. The confusion of brindle Pugs all comes down to if they are purebred or mixed. Some dog groups and associations do not place brindle Pugs in the Pug category. These groups are uncertain they are purebred. The American Kennel Club who believes there are only two types of pure Pugs- fawn and black colored. Yet, brindle Pugs can be purebred with two Pugs that have a brindle gene. Some believe the gene that creates the unique brindle pattern has always been with the Pug. Those that believe brindle can be a gene believe brindle Pugs can be purebred. Others believe the brindle pattern is not in the Pug but is a result of cross-breeding. More common than not, brindle Pugs are not purebred. Instead, a Pug and another animal are bred to get that brindle color. Brindle Pugs cannot enter shows in the American Kennel Club. Still people have become obsessed with them. Brindle Pugs are deserving of the same love they are waiting to give. Here is all you need to know about the rare cuties. Weight of Pugs Brindle Pugs are small and round, like any Pug, and weigh around pounds. Their weight depends on their gender, not the color of their coat. Male brindle Pugs typically weigh more than females. Bundle of Personality Pugs are one of the most sought after breeds in the world, and rightfully so. Brindle Pugs are no different. They love attention from their owners and are extremely loving. They love following around their owner and become quite attached. Brindle Pugs love sitting on the couch with you while getting as many pets as possible. On the flip side, brindle Pugs hate to be left alone. If they are left alone for too long, they will experience separation anxiety. A good way to combat their stress is to practice distance while at home. Brindle Pugs might chew up your shoe or shred some toilet paper to let you know they were not happy you left. Brindle Pugs are also known to be playful and are rarely aggressive toward people or other dogs. It is vital to give Pugs different toys to stimulate their brain during playtime. A toy with treats in it is good too, so dogs can stimulate their brains to solve a complex problem. Once your brindle solves the problem, they are rewarded with food or a treat. It is so important your brindle Pug is entertained and not bored with the same old toys. Pugs, in general, love to be loved and given affection. They are not a guard dog, but they will always be by your side and be your best friend and your number one fan. So, brindle Pugs are fun, loving, and super attached but are they intelligent? Pugs are very intelligent and can be trained with consistency. Pugs were always loved and adored by the most royal people throughout history. Are you surprised? Royal people had a deep love for the loving and loyal Pugs. They owned Pugs of the two traditional colors, black and fawn. So, how did these royal Pugs make their way from China to America? China These sweet pudgy dogs were first discovered in China around 2, years ago. China royals and emperors loved Pugs. Pugs were only known to be royal dogs in China and were untouchable for ordinary people. The only way people, who were not royal, could own a Pug was to receive one as a gift. Pugs were more accessible when they entered Europe. When Pugs arrived in Europe, they were mostly a dog for royal people. European dynasties owned Pugs, and even Queen Victoria owned many in her lifetime. Of course, when royals owned the tiny breed, the British people wanted to get their hands on them as well. Over time it was more common for anyone to have a Pug. Now, Pugs are loved across the world and are not just royalty, but are for everyone. Just royal people may not own all Pugs, but they still act like royalty. Whatever the history is, the brindle Pug is here today and is truly unique. However, this Pug is not just something to awe over. There are complications of this unique breed. Health Risks of Brindle Pugs There is no denying the beauty of this small breed. With that being said, their physicality could be a risk factor as they get older. One common health concern for all Pugs is overeating because they are fast eaters. This can lead to weight gain if not monitored. These bowls are found at any pet store, but here are some great ones on amazon. Even though their eyes are quite cute, they could cause health issues in their lifetime. Their eyes are prone to get scratched or irritated because they bulge out of their face. Their eyes can also get corneal ulcers and dry eyes. A veterinarian is a go-to person for any eye issues. They will know the best treatment for these specific eye issues for a brindle Pug. Breathing and Overheating Brindle Pugs can have breathing problems and are prone to them due to their smushed snouts. Again, who knew such a cute feature Pugs are known for can be quite harmful. These issues are caused by their nasal passages being so tiny. Brindle Pugs also get very overheated in the sun. Overheating can trigger their breathing issues if they sit in the hot weather for too long. This means their brain tissue becomes inflamed. Vets do believe this disease could be genetic. Purebred brindle Pugs can experience more health concerns than those that are mixed. This is something to keep in mind with choosing a brindle Pug. Purebred or not, any dog owner should take their dog to the vet within one or two weeks of adopting. This ensures the dog is updated on their shots, and any red flags can be brought to light and diagnosed early. The lifespan of brindle Pugs is around 15 years. Brindle Pugs can live longer when their health issues are addressed and cared for. Well, it is good to assume you will be putting more money and time into your new furry baby. Brindle Pugs tend to be more expensive because the brindle pattern is rarer. Now, some variables could affect this price. If someone is looking for an adult brindle Pug, that price could be lower. Brindle Pugs are usually purchased through a breeder because they are so rare. Rarity Tends to be Expensive People want brindle Pugs because their pattern is unique. They are different from the standard two-color Pugs often come in. Because of this, breeders can get more money when they are breeding brindle Pugs. If you do come across a purebred brindle Pug this is rare , it is probable to cost you more money as well. It is also their vet bills, food, treats, toys, cage, etc. The process of finding the perfect food for your pet can be filled with a lot of pressure. Of course, a healthy food option is the best food option. Check out how to read a dog food label here. Here are some options to consider when buying puppy or dog food for your Brindle Pug.
It is located in Frenchtown just outside of Missoula, Montana. They currently have one male and three female parent dogs. These dogs have become a part of their family and the owner only breeds for the betterment of the puppies. They aim for health, conformation, and disposition. To contact them you need to send an email to them using their website or give them a call. They raise the best-natured puppies in this state. Their pups are well adjusted and social. They have uploaded photos of their bullies on their Facebook page. Be sure to check them out. They also send pups to every state. Visit them if you want and share your experience with us. You can check them out but it would be a matter of luck to find a purebred there. Also, we do not advise you to get a pup from a mill or rescue center. Be sure to check all the things you need to know about purebred Frenchies and then come to a decision of getting one. Why Not? You may be able to find yourself with a puppy or adult dog from a rescue center and sometimes at a lower cost. It is always appreciated to save a life. But a rescue center puppy has certain issues. They do not have any health insurance for the puppy. You can not be certain if your chosen Frenchie is in good shape or not. You do not know the parent dogs. So if there is an inherited illness, you would not be able to know that either. Most of the rescue center puppies suffer from mental health issues. They go through trauma which can lead you to give up on your pup. Some of them are highly sensitive about certain sounds or noises. They lack social contact so may face problems being with new people and places. These are the main reasons why it is not a good idea to get a French Bulldog Puppy From a rescue center. How do I find a good French Bulldog breeder in Montana? You need to follow some steps to find a good Frenchie breeder in this state. They are: First, do research. Find out and make a list of all the breeders in your state. Collect their information and see the reviews. Check their breeding plans. A good breeder always aims for the betterment of the breed. Contact the breeders one by one. Get to know about them. If any of them seems to be well enough to you, pay them a visit. This will help you to check them out in person. You can verify if whatever they say about themselves is true or not. Ask for certificates and medical histories. A good breeder will never hesitate to show you these things. They will be crystal clear to you in all cases. Many good breeders do not have any certificate due to less number of puppy production per year. But they do follow the rules of AKC. A responsible breeder will also know about you so that they can see where their baby is going. They never hand over the pups to anyone and everyone. They make sure that the forever home for their puppy is safe and sound for them. Another thing to keep in mind, good breeders do not send a puppy home until it is six to ten weeks old. If any of them allows you to do so then their reputation is questionable. How do I choose a French Bulldog puppy in Montana? Now that you have chosen a breeder you also need to know how to choose a French bully puppy. These steps will help you to choose one for yourself: Do not indulge yourself thinking about the color of a puppy. Their color can change as they grow up. It may not meet your expectations. Instead look for a happy, healthy puppy that can fulfill your requirement as well as be your companion. Check the environment of the kennel. If the environment is not clean the pups may have certain issues such as allergies. Also take a look at the parent dogs. If the parents have any health issues the pups are most likely to have those too. Observe their whole litter. Play with them so that you can understand their behaviour. Check if they are socialized enough or not. French Bulldogs are great learners. But if not socialized from an early age they might face trouble in a new place. Do not rush to choose a pup. Also avoid choosing the most energetic or the sluggiest pup of the liter. Instead choose those who are not too energetic nor sluggish. You can inspect their sound health yourself. Like; check the paws, ears, gum and tails. A deaf one will not respond to noise. Check for allergies and infections. Wait until a new puppy is weeks old. Within this time it will start showing genuine characteristics. Also if there is any health issue, it will come up too within this time. And there you have it! These are the tips you can use to pick your new Frenchie out from the litter. What is the rarest color of French Bulldog In Montana? Why Are They Rare in Montana state? Frenchies come in a variety of colors. It can be white, cream, fawn, red, or any combination of those. While they may display patterns that include Brindle, Piebald, Ticked, White or black. These are all AKC-certified colors. Blue French bulldogs definitely attract the most attention. They have such a unique coat that must draw you to get yourself one. The blue coat color comes from a very rare dilute gene which may affect their eye color too. They are prone to have a thin coat of hair and seldom suffer from bald patches. Their single and thin coat of hair makes them more sensitive about their body temperature. AKC mostly does not support breeding rare colored puppies. So many breeders avoid this too. Therefore, blue French bullies are rare in Montana. What do I need to know about French Bulldog puppies? Frenchies have such adorable attire that you must fall in love with them. No one can deny their cuteness. It has made them the sixth most popular dog breed. Here are some factors that you need to keep in mind before choosing a French Bulldog puppy; Frenchies are family guys. They go well with children and other animals. If you need a show dog this might not be the right choice for you. They need less exercise and fit well in small spaces. So if you live in a city a French Bully is a great option for you. The Frenchie is a low shedding and low maintenance dog. They should be brushed once a week just to keep his coat shiny and looking good. Their adorable wrinkles will also bring a bit of work. You must make sure the skin between their folds is clean and dry. They do not bark much but try to communicate with you in some other way. Yawns, yips, and gargles etc are very common in them. Frenchie are predisposed to weight gain. This extra weight can put pressure on their lungs, making it hard to breathe. These are emotionally sensitive dogs. They can sense your sadness or anxiety and may try to comfort you by cuddling or staying by your side. Keep in mind they are not good swimmers. Even though dogs are known for their swimming ability, small feet and bulky body makes it impossible for them to swim. What is the difference between English Bulldog vs French Bulldog? English and French Bulldogs are both lovable and family guys but are very different depending on their quirks and characteristics. You need to know these differences so that you do not get mixed up while buying. Here are the differences between them: English Bulldogs are less aggressive and sweeter than French Bullies. English Bulldogs are taller than the french ones. They are only inches tall, and can weigh as much as 50 pounds. On the other hand Frenchies are around inches tall and full grown one weigh under 28 pounds. English Bullies have heavier wrinkles than Frenchies. Frenchies shed less than the English ones. Both of them are highly trainable but the English one may possess a stubborn streak that can make them difficult to deal with if not well-trained. Again the French ones can be slightly less stubborn. The French Bulldog is considered to be more intelligent, playful , and energetic than the English Bulldog. Some Frenchies might have a lack of patiences. Skin disorders may be a problem in some English Bulldogs whereas French Bulldogs are considered to be healthier. Now it is up to you which one would you prefer to make a companion. Over To You Raising a puppy can be incredible and can also become a heck of a job if you do not choose correctly. Hope my article was helpful for you to get and raise a French Bulldog puppy by yourself. Please let me know your feedback in the comment section down below. Feel free to share any kind of Frenchie-related information too. If you know any other breeder other than these in Montana State be sure to share it with me and the readers. Michelle Brown. Contact Us Jagster's Bulldogs is located in wonderful big sky country, in the northwest portion of Montana. We began our interest in English Bulldogs years ago and have continued to have a love for Bulldogs since. We presently show, and have a litter of Bulldog puppies occasionally. We strive to produce the most loving, healthy and AKC conformationaly correct Bulldogs as possible. Jagster's Bulldog puppies are all very well socialized in our home. We have an immense amount of passion for the English Bulldog breed and feel they are a wonderful addition to anyone's family. If you are looking for a beautiful healthy Bulldog puppy you have come to the right place. We hope you enjoy your time with us. If you have any questions about our Bulldogs, Bulldog puppies or Bully questions at all, please drop us a note. Bones that is "Bulldog Rules" Author: Unknown 1. The Bulldog is not allowed the run of the house. Okay, the Bulldog is allowed to roam in the house, But only in certain rooms. The Bulldog is allowed in all rooms, but has to stay off the furniture. The Bulldog can get on the old furniture only. Fine, the Bulldog is allowed on all furniture, but is not allowed to sleep with the humans on the bed. Okay, the Bulldog is allowed on the bed, but by invitation only. The Bulldog can sleep on the bed whenever it wants, but not under the covers. The Bulldog can sleep under the covers by invitation only. The Bulldog can sleep under the covers every night. Humans must ask permission to sleep under the covers with the Bulldog. Located in the Northwestern United States, Montana offers a breathtaking landscape and an abundance of dog-friendly activities, making it an ideal place for French Bulldog enthusiasts. Our website has a wide variety of reputable breeders that specialize in raising healthy puppies. Our Montana breeders are committed to only raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations, veterinary checkups, and care to ensure they are in the best health before going to their forever MT homes. They also provide additional support and advice after the sale to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new puppy. Montana is a fantastic destination for dog lovers, boasting numerous dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and events to explore with your canine companion. Montana sits 46th among other states, with a population of just over thousand dogs. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our trusted French Bulldog breeders offer safe and affordable flight delivery. A dedicated flight nanny accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring a safe and comfortable trip as they make their way to their new home in Big Sky Country. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option guarantees your puppy is safely transported to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique needs of pet travel. Begin your search for the perfect French Bulldog puppy today on TrustedPuppies. Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in Montana? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in Montana work? One of the best things about French Bulldogs is that they can be found in a wide range of colors and coat patterns. From Fawn French Bulldogs for sale Montana with their traditional tan-colored coats to Brindle French Bulldog puppies for sale Montana with their white and black coloring, you'll find a great range of options here on Uptown. What are the origins of French Bulldogs? Back in the s, you wouldn't have been able to find a single French Bulldog for sale in Montana as these dogs could only be found in France and England to begin with. They were made by crossing Toy English Bulldogs with ratter dogs from France, creating a smaller and cuter kind of Bulldog: the Frenchie. How big can these dogs be? The Frenchie is classed as a small-sized breed overall, and a French Bulldog for sale Montana is a good option for anyone looking for a portable dog for car journeys. Generally, a French Bulldog should grow to a height of about 11 to 12". In terms of weight, a healthy Frenchie can be anywhere from 16 to 28 lbs, depending on its gender and build. Why do French Bulldogs have such high prices? If you've noticed that Frenchies can be a little expensive than other breeds, there is a genuine reason behind this. Basically, Montana French Bulldog breeders have to pay quite high prices to breed these dogs safely due to their narrow hips. In order to recoup their own expenses, breeders have to charge more when selling a Montana French Bulldog puppy for sale. What are some health issues that are affecting Frenchies? Sadly, the French Bulldog isn't immune to health issues. These dogs can suffer from respiratory difficulties due to their snub-like snouts, as well as hip and joint issues too. They can still live for up to 14 years though with the right care, and if you buy French Bulldogs for sale in Montana from trusted, proven breeders, you'll have a great chance of finding a happy, healthy pup. How do you vet breeders selling French Bulldogs? At Uptown, we're focused on working alongside only the finest French Bulldog breeders Montana, ensuring that our users have pleasant puppy-finding experiences. In order to tell which breeders are the best, we put them all to the test! Only those who are good enough to get through our screening process are allowed to join the network and sell their French Bulldog puppies Montana to Uptown users. What are backyard breeders? As the name implies, backyard breeders are usually unprofessional people trying to breed dogs in their own backyards. Since they lack proper standards of professionalism and care, these breeders often produce unhealthy pups with shorter-than-average lifespans. For these reasons, buying French Bulldog puppies for sale in Montana from backyard breeders is very risky. How do I know I can trust this network? We want to be your most-trusted source for finding French Bulldog puppies in Montana, but we understand you might be a little hesitant about using our site for the first time. We think we're doing a great job of bringing dog lovers together, but you don't need to take our word for it! Take a read of some of our latest customer reviews for an unbiased look at the Uptown network before choosing us to help find your French Bulldog Montana. Can French Bulldogs be a good option for apartments? Statistics show that more and more apartment owners are looking for their own Montana French Bulldog for sale, and it's easy to see why. Frenchies are small and pretty lazy dogs for the most part, perfectly happy to spend most of their time snoozing or cuddling up on your lap. They don't need huge spaces to be happy as long as they get lots of love and regular walks. What's the story with puppy mills? If you want to have a pleasant experience adopting your next Montana French Bulldogs for sale, we strongly urge you to avoid puppy mills. Not only are these places highly unethical, but they're also a veritable hell for the poor dogs that live in them. Many pups born in mills suffer from various health issues that go totally untreated, leading to big vet bills and a major disappointment for future owners.
These pups are incredibly intelligent and capable canines who are ready to work. And German Shepherd puppies are too cute! Advertisement Remember, you can get any kind of dog, including a GSD, from shelters and rescues, so always adopt! They tend to be one-family pets, meaning they can be suspicious of strangers. They will help you redecorate your floors Do you have a hardwood floor? Although absolutely gorgeous, Shepherds are shedders to the max. Prepare for a snow globe of hair to poof off your pup any time you give them a big snuggle, which will be more often than not. Playing around is no game The German Shepherd is a very active breed and needs lots of physical stimulation and playtime. When you first get your puppy, playing may consist of nipping due to their herding background. When your GSD is fully grown, they may love to wrestle around and forget how big they are. These pups are always up for snuggling with others, including kids and other pets. Softies who are also busy bodies If you want a German Shepherd puppy in your life, you have to really want your dog to be a part of every little bit of your daily routine. Morning showers? Your pup will want to sit right outside to make sure you rinse off the soap. Your bed? Highly intelligent and curious, Shepherds want to know what is going on all of the time. German Shepherds will attach at the hip and make the right person the happiest dog parent on the planet. Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. Though size varies between individuals, a standard German Shepherd weighs about 60 pounds. Whether you already own a German Shepherd pup or are looking into it, be prepared for a hefty lap dog! Continue to 7 of 16 below. They were originally bred for their striking good looks and intelligence, making for a great working dog on the police force and in the military. They were so cute that dog-lovers in other countries soon caught on and began breeding them themselves. Continue to 8 of 16 below. These dogs are very protective of their homes and family and make excellent guard dogs. Continue to 9 of 16 below. They need stimulation, even if they are a family pet and not a trained deputy. This can be in the form of playful games, puzzle toys, tricks , and obedience training. Otherwise, German Shepherds may show off some unpleasant behavior, like chewing. Continue to 10 of 16 below. Continue to 11 of 16 below. Continue to 12 of 16 below. They perk up as they grow older, making them look extra tall and important. Continue to 13 of 16 below. Beautiful all black and all white German Shepherds are out there, too. Continue to 14 of 16 below. Continue to 15 of 16 below. This breed is inherently athletic and courageous—nothing can stop them, not even water. Continue to 16 of 16 below. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more!
How often should I feed my puppy? The amount you give your puppy each mealtime will vary depending on their breed and their size category: x-small, small, medium, large or giant. Due to the rapid phases of growth puppies experience, they need a food which has higher energy-density than an adult dog. This is particularly important for large breed dogs, as over-feeding can encourage them to grow too quickly and result in skeletal problems. The best way you can feed your puppy is to create a routine and stick to it. Feed them at the same times, in the same place, using the same bowl, so they understand exactly when and where mealtimes are. When you do transition to a different food — for example, when they move from being a puppy to an adult dog — do it over a week or so, by mixing the new and old foods together and gradually increasing the percentage of new food. Leave the bowl down for 15 to 20 minutes and then remove it, even if there is food still uneaten; this will help them learn they must eat when you decide. Always make sure there is plenty of water available, and change it regularly. Giving your puppy scraps or leftovers can result in bad behaviour as it confuses their routine. Related Articles. How often should I feed my puppy? The amount you give your puppy each mealtime will vary depending on their breed and their size category: x-small, small, medium, large or giant. Due to the rapid phases of growth puppies experience, they need a food which has higher energy-density than an adult dog and should have specific puppy nutrition. This is particularly important for large breed dogs, as over-feeding can encourage them to grow too quickly and result in skeletal problems. The best way you can feed your puppy is to create a routine and stick to it. Feed them at the same times, in the same place, using the same bowl, so they understand exactly when and where mealtimes are. When you do transition to a different food — for example, when they move from being a puppy to an adult dog — do it over a week or so, by mixing the new and old foods together and gradually increasing the percentage of new food. Leave the bowl down for 15 to 20 minutes and then remove it, even if there is food still uneaten; this will help them learn they must eat when you decide. Always make sure there is plenty of water available, and change it regularly. Giving your puppy scraps or leftovers can result in bad behaviour as it confuses their routine. Related Articles. The nutrients needed in a puppy's diet There are a range of vital nutrients that your puppy needs during the first months of life to aid healthy growth and development. A puppy's diet must be able to provide enough energy and quality protein to support growth and be easily digestible. We develop our foods in close collaboration with breeders, vets and nutritionists. As well as focusing on the exceptional nutritional quality of our formulas, we also ensure the following key factors. To make our formulas as appealing as possible, we: Select ingredients rigorously for their odour, density and texture as well as nutritional quality. Design kibble texture, shape and size to suit each size of dog. Preserve formulas. So we ensure our formulas are highly digestible to help avoid stomach upsets and make it easier for your puppy to absorb the nutrients. Discover View the products How much should I feed my puppy? Puppies have different nutritional needs according to their breed and eventual adult size. Ask your vet for help checking the expected adult weight of your puppy according to their breeding. You can then choose the right food for them and make sure you give it to them in the right quantities. What are the size categories for dogs? Dogs are categorised in five different sizes: X-small — up to 4kg when adult Small — up to 10kg when adult Medium — 11kg to 25kg when adult Large — 26kg to 44kg when adult Giant — over 45kg when adult Why is puppy food tailored to adult dog sizes? Breeds of different sizes have different needs as puppies. Medium breeds tend to be more active outdoors so need plenty of energy and helping building their natural defences. Large and giant breeds grow slower and need less energy per kilo of bodyweight than small breeds. What if I give food designed for different sized breeds? Underfeeding can lead to issues including malnutrition and stunted growth. While overfeeding can make your puppy overweight, which can cause painful bone and joint problems, difficulty breathing and more. Does portion size matter for puppies? This is particularly crucial for large breed dogs, as overfeeding can cause them to grow too quickly and develop skeletal problems. Always refer to the portion recommendations on the pack and weigh each meal carefully. Smaller breed dogs reach adulthood sooner than others, so they can move to fewer meals a day at an earlier stage. To help them feel secure, and avoid upsetting their digestion, give them the same food, preferably at the same times, in the same place, using the same bowl. What is mixed feeding for puppies? Mixed feeding is when you give your puppy a combination of wet and dry food — either at the same time or at separate meals. You can try adding the wet as a topper to the kibble or feed in a separate bowl. They both offer important benefits such as wet food helping with hydration and appealing to picky eaters. While dry food can slow down fast eaters. Palatability Our wet formulas are designed to be highly appealing to the fussiest of puppies. When should I begin mixed feeding? Puppies can start mixed feeding at any time, but introducing them to variety at an early age may avoid fussy behaviour in adulthood. A dog's digestive tract becomes accustomed to the composition and type of food. The amount your puppy needs to drink depends on factors including the environmental temperature and their size, exercise levels, physical condition and diet. The best way to ensure your puppy drinks the right amount is to give them constant access to fresh water. Change the water in their bowls daily to keep it clean and top it up throughout the day. Also wash their bowls daily to prevent parasites breeding in them. Then they always have the opportunity to drink in a quiet place. And avoid plastic water bowls as they can harbour off-putting smells and bacteria — ceramic or stainless steel bowls are best. Here are some good habits to establish straightaway to help your puppy build positive associations with feeding times and get the nutrients they need. What How Maintain portion control To avoid overfeeding your puppy, check the dietary guidelines on the food packaging and measure each portion carefully. Remember the stated amounts apply for the whole day, not per meal. Giving your puppy scraps or hand feeding can also cause bad behaviour. Limit how many you give and always offer them at the right time for the right reason. Limit activity before and after feeding To prevent stomach upsets, try to avoid your puppy jumping about for an hour or two after eating. Keep feeding times calm Distractions can put your puppy off their food, so keep their feeding area quiet. Set the pace If your puppy bolts their food, try a slow-feed bowl or feeding puzzle. Make sure you choose the right puppy food according to their expected adult size and always follow the portion recommendations on the pack. When should I stop feeding puppy food? For smaller breeds this can be as early as eight months, but for larger breeds it can be up to two years. When can puppies eat dry food? Puppies can start to eat dry kibbles when weaning, which begins at around four or five weeks. What foods are poisonous for a puppy? Many of the foods that are healthy or enjoyable for us can be poisonous for dogs and puppies. Is homemade food better for puppies? It also perishes faster and tends to be more expensive and time-consuming to make. This is important to know as both can cause health issues. Your vet can show you how to score your puppy. Do puppies need supplements? Should dogs and puppies only eat meat? Although dogs are often considered to be carnivores, they would eat their prey whole in the wild. By eating the guts of their herbivorous and omnivorous prey, they would eat some vegetable matter too. Puppy feeding quiz Test your knowledge and find out how much you've learnt by taking our quiz Start the quiz How often should you feed a three month old puppy? Once a day Three times a day Correct! For all breed sizes, three month old puppies require three equally sized meals a day. Puppies are unable to regulate their food intake, so more regular, smaller portions are gentler on their digestive system. Next question Go back Wrong For all breed sizes, three month old puppies require three equally sized meals a day. Next question. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet. They partner with veterinarians, breeders and other pet experts to recognize the effect of each nutrient as they develop formulas for a particular breed. The breed's lifestyle, life stage needs and the tendency to develop certain health issues are all studies, taking every detail into consideration so your dog can be his most magnificent self. That clear focus steers their research and underpins the quality of the nutrition. Developed Through Science and Research: Royal Canin has over formulas that have been developed by vets and nutritional experts and tested at one of their research facilities. Committed Quality and Safety: Nutritional quality and product safety are at the heart of their operations. With more than , analyses on raw materials and finished products per year, they never compromise on providing your pet effective and precise nutrition. Their obsession with detail is what makes it possible to deliver precise, effective nutrition for a variety of breeds, sizes, lifestyles and health needs.
Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. Made with real meat and no artificial colors or flavors how much should a lab eat? Allergies Labs can also have allergies. Some dogs may be allergic to wheat, macadamia nuts, etc. It can manifest as a runny nose, high volumes of shedding, rashes on the skin, and so on. Different dietary needs are crucial, especially if they display allergy symptoms. Avoid all types of human foods. You can give your lab puppy supplements You can get great quality adult dog food and puppy kibble from companies like Royal Canin Labrador Retriever, Blue Buffalo, Canidae Grain-Free, etc. Only adult food must be given to labrador retrievers who have crossed 1. Your puppy needs 4 small meals consisting of half a cup of food per meal till he is 2 months old. From 2 to 6 months, he needs 3 meals daily consisting of 1 cup of food per meal. From 6 months onwards , you can give your puppy 2 meals daily of 2 cups of dog food per meal. Is This A Problem? Yes, this is a major problem! Fat dogs are adorable but also extremely unhealthy. An adult labrador retriever should weigh at most pounds. Labs that are fatter than this stand at the risk of obesity, arthritis , and other lifelong diseases. Refrain from feeding your labrador too many dog treats. Onions and garlic: surprisingly, anything in the onion and garlic family is incredibly toxic to dogs. Meat with bones: if not chewed properly, sharp edges can rupture the throat, stomach lining, intestines, and other parts of the digestive tract. Other human foods and beverages to avoid giving your dog are alcohol, sugar, citric fruits, and anything with caffeine. Your labrador retriever should weigh between 55 to 70 pounds at full adulthood. Male labs are heavier than female labs, so they can fall on either side of the optimal weight spectrum. Some healthy treats for your labrador retriever are cut fruits and vegetables. Carrots, celery, cucumber, beetroot, apples, bananas, and berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, etc. Dogs also love peanut butter! Veggies dipped in peanut butter also make a great snack for your dog. This is entirely up to you as dog owners. If you have the time and patience to cook meals for your dog, go for it. Store-bought food is easier and is filled with the right nutritional requirements for your lab puppy. On the other hand, with the right recipe, home-cooked food works, too. What Should I Do? A dog growling at you when you go near his food bowl is most commonly a trauma response or a way to protect his food. We often see this with rescues. House training your lab puppy is equally important to avoid food aggression. Labrador Retrievers get piddly after their meals. Dog owners must take out their lab puppy as frequently as they eat sometimes even more often to let their energy out and adult labradors less frequently. A lab puppy needs a ton of exercise. The amount of kibble you should feed your Labrador puppy will vary depending on their age, weight, and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to start with cups of kibble daily and adjust as needed. Best Dog Food For Lab Puppies: The best dog foods for lab puppies include those that are high in protein and low in fillers. The food you should feed a black lab puppy is the same as for any other Labrador puppy. A chocolate lab puppy should be fed the same food as for any other Labrador puppy. A 2-year-old chocolate lab should eat about cups of kibble daily. You should stop feeding puppy food to your Labrador at around months of age. At this point, their growth plates will have closed, and they will no longer need the extra nutrients found in puppy food. Labradors live for years. They start to slow down around 7 and may develop some health problems in their senior years. You should also increase their exercise level. Lab breeders feed their dogs high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. A lab puppy should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. This amount may increase as they get older and more active. A labrador needs at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be a combination of walking, running, and playing. Golden labs live for years. Chocolate labs live for years same like labs of any color. Labradors lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months of age. You can start to transition your puppy to eating twice a day at around 6 months of age. By the time they are 1 year old, they should eat only once daily. You should stop feeding your large breed puppy food at around 18 months of age. Why Are Labs So Hungry? Labradors are a very active breed of dog, and they need a lot of calories to fuel their energy levels. They are also prone to gaining weight, so keep a close eye on their food intake About The Author Shradha Kabra Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. Naturally, Labrador puppies would require more feeding times. Hence, you should only set a few hours interval between meals. As for adult Labs, optimal feeding times would be one in the morning, afternoon, and night. Almost identical to human eating hours. Along with implementing a time frame for mealtime, owners must be open to modifying combinations of puppy food throughout the first two years of the pup. Abrupt growth spurts may bring changes in their eating habits. Once your dog reaches one year old, its dog food is enough to sustain its energy for longer. Always ensure to follow the correct feeding schedule when feeding kibble or other types of dog food to ensure nutritional requirements are met. Regardless if you have chocolate , red fox , or Dudley Labrador , make it a priority to visit a pet nutritionist to obtain an accurate feeding time and quantity specifically designed for your pooch. They help in hunting, farming, and even therapy. As such, they require an energy-loaded diet and dog foods that are rich in protein and carbohydrates to keep up with their activities. Since they belong to the large breed classification, they are also prone to common health risks such as arthritis and other joint diseases. To prevent this, scour the local pet store with dog food that contains omega fatty acids, B vitamins, beta-carotene , and amino acids. These nutrients are essential to obtain, whether from a raw food diet, home-prepared meals, or commercial dog food. Here are some of the best dog foods we recommend for your Labrador Retriever: Wet Food: Like kibble, commercially available wet dog food is common and already a complete and balanced diet for your Labrador puppy or adult dog. Its smooth texture is well-loved by purebreds and mixed breeds alike. Eating wet food that contains Docosahexaenoic acid DHA , glucosamine, and Eicosapentaenoic acid EPA helps support the condition of their joints and heart. Dry Food: When on the hunt for the most suitable dry dog food, always look for grain-free and made from whole food sources so it can easily be digested. Also, check the food labels and ensure that it has a perfect balance of carbohydrates and fats. Highly fortified and breed-specific kibble is also recommended. Homemade Food: Considering how much your adult dog or Lab puppy eats, a healthy diet made from scratch can be a great alternative to avoid obesity. Just mix everything together with a little water to incorporate them better. Furthermore, this diet opts for low sodium content. Owners should include fish and flaxseed oil, carrots, eggs, liver, and beans into the raw puppy food diet. Since Labrador Retrievers are energetic and active dogs, it is best to give them a moderate to high-fat diet. As long as they are able to exercise daily, they can easily work it off and avoid being overweight. However, if they are more on the lax side, adjust their food intake from low to moderate calories. If they cannot burn off the calories, enroll them in a low-fat or low-protein diet instead. Excessive carbs can increase their blood sugar and may put your dogs at risk for diabetes. It may take extra time and effort, but the investment will definitely pay off. Once you learn the appropriate feeding pattern, then having a healthy dog with strong joints and a better digestive and immune system is easily attainable. That includes sharing our belongings, space, and most especially, our food. However, the American Kennel Club reminds owners to be aware of what human food is safe for dogs. In this section, you will learn which foods are okay for consumption and which food can harm our Labrador Retrievers. Physically, it can block their esophagus if not chewed properly. Moreover, some may also contain salt that can be fatal to their heart. Chocolate: Chocolate in any other form should not be given to dogs. Chocolate has toxic substances called methylxanthines that put a stop to their metabolic process. It can still be toxic even in the smallest amount as it may cause diarrhea or vomiting. Garlic and Allium Plants: Alliums such as garlic, chives, leeks, and onions are not good for dog consumption. Although regularly seen across social media, feeding your pooch ice cream is not recommended. It contains loads of sugar, and some dogs may be lactose intolerant as well. As an alternative, owners can always freeze berries and apples as a regular icy treat. On the contrary, here are some of the most friendly human foods for all dogs, including Labrador Retrievers: Milk: Milk is a great supplement of other nutrients for dogs. Just be mindful that your dog is not lactose intolerant. It should only be given in small quantities as a treat. Popcorn: On a movie night, dogs can also munch on popcorn. However, ensure that it is unsalted, unflavored, and air-popped. In moderation, it is a good source of thiamine and riboflavin for eyesight. Remove any unpopped kernels to avoid choking. Seafood: In addition, seafood such as salmon and shrimp contain good fats and are high in antioxidants. Seafood boosts their immune system and brain health. Be sure to thoroughly cook salmon, fish, and shrimp all the way through to avoid parasites. Eggs: Eggs are also safe for dogs so long as they are also cooked well. Cheese: Cheese can also be given to dogs in moderate quantities. Go for low-fat cheese as a treat. Mozzarella and cottage cheese are some that can be fully enjoyed by dogs without the fat guilt. A small amount of prohibited food is not worth an emergency trip to a vet. Throughout their life stages, a dog will not just undergo one food switch. Age, health, and other factors can fuel a change in their diet. As stated earlier, an abrupt change in their food will only cause an upset stomach and indigestion. There are a couple of reasons to switch food. Add the new food into each meal gradually and reduce the portion of their current food. This method can also be followed when changing from dry kibble to raw feeding and vice versa. Some reasons for change can be prompted by age. Different life stages will require different nutritional requirements for your dog. Other reasons may be caused by allergies, brand availability, and weight management. It is still best to consult your trusted vet about changing their overall food regimen. They just enjoy feeding their pooch with tons of food and love seeing them get fat. However, that is not considered proper care for them. Experienced dog breeders know precisely what an overweight dog looks like and how to feed them properly. Labradors are known for their love of food. They are incapable of switching off their hunger signals even after eating. As a result, Labs have a higher number of overweight dogs in the United States. Like with other dogs, overfeeding a dog can lead to obesity. Thankfully, there are ways to address this and protect the health of our pooch in the long run. An eye-opening first step is to have a handy Labrador food guide. Having this will help you gauge the correct amount of food your dog needs depending on its age and other factors as well. Log what they eat and how much they eat during each meal. Calculating their calorie intake is also helpful for medical purposes and when switching food. Furthermore, avoid feeding overweight dogs table scraps. Many owners are guilty of this habit. Much like table scraps, it is also best to limit dog treats. Entice dogs with treats only on special occasions and during training. These are just some of the simple things you can do to control an overweight pooch. When it comes to other methods, it is always advisable to speak with your vet. Dogs lose their appetite due to some reasons. Do Labrador Retrievers Eat a lot? Yes, Labrador Retrievers are a food-motivated breed. This is why owners need to control their food intake. Can Labrador Retrievers Eat Bones? Bones are a good source of minerals, so they can be good for Labrador Retrievers. However, it may come with serious physical trade-offs. Give only large, raw bones and supervise them from time to time. Dispose of the bone after 3 to 4 days. Can Labrador Retrievers Be Vegetarians? Yes, Labrador Retrievers can thrive with a proper vegetable diet in place. In fact, soy and other whole grains are perfect substitutes for meat for protein. However, a vegetarian diet is something that needs professional input from vets. Final Thoughts Labs are the most popular dog breed in the United States. Thus, there are a lot of available materials on how to take care of and feed this easy-going pooch properly. For starters, it is highly recommended to have a Labrador feeding schedule to guide you with the amount and frequency of feeding. Although Labrador food is accessible for purchase anywhere, you can also introduce them in a raw diet or homemade meals. Regardless of what type of food you choose to give, you need to ensure to feed your dog a complete diet that supports their growth and overall health. As an owner, it is a big responsibility to provide them with only the best, so these high-spirited companions can have a happy and longer life. Will you follow this Labrador food guide? What are your feeding methods with your pooch? Share and comment your thoughts below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Keep an eye out for the nursing habits of the mother to ensure that everyone gets a fair share. Some puppies could be overfed while others are underfed, which may lead to differences in growth later on. If you notice some puppies getting thinner than the other litter members, consider consulting your vet for a puppy formula appropriate for them. Your puppies will develop most of their motor skills during their 3rd week, leaving them to slowly explore on their own but still watched over by their mother and you, as their owner. Lab pups might also want to nurse from their mom often due to their energy needs. Developing milk teeth also happens in the third week for Labrador puppies so it will be a challenge if you start weaning during this time. Start with a mix of puppy food and water in a ratio of — adding liquid will help them digest the solids easier. Instead, just wait for them to sniff the food and try to eat it out of curiosity. Remember to be patient when feeding. When your puppy reaches 5 weeks of age, they are likely to eat a bit more solid food than they did last week. By this time, you can try to gradually increase the amount of solid food in their bowl. You may also start to notice the mother doing her job of slowly letting go of her little ones when it comes to the nursing job. This does not generally mean that your puppies will no longer get nursed by their mother — the instances of nursing will only lessen during this transition period. Physical activity is common when your Labrador retriever puppy reaches 6 weeks old. Your pups might also run around even more and become slightly independent compared to when they were younger, which means less time with their mother to get milk. By 7 weeks of age, your puppies will have far less time being nursed by their mother. This translates to being almost done with the weaning process. Continue feeding them food and liquid mixture until only the solid food is left served in their food bowl. Aside from that, you may also want to add a bit of age-appropriate kibble suited for Labrador puppies that they can chew properly. Protein is an important part of their diet, which includes meat sources chicken, beef, and fish , which will help in their energy, strength, and overall health. Consider foods that are rich in protein rather than brands that only contain mostly fillers like corn and wheat. The ideal amount of food per day is 2 cups, which should be divided into 3 or 4 meals per day. When it comes to weight management, keep in mind that different Labrador breeds do exist. This means that not all puppies should have the same amount of food. Take time to observe your puppy visually if you are feeling their ribs. After all, sudden changes in their diet can result in stomach upsets! Food changes are also important to talk about. If, for some reason, the new Labrador pup owner has no access or little budget for the brand you used, consider close alternatives and make sure they introduce the new food properly, gradually, and slowly. Later on, during their 9th week, you can also give them home-cooked meals such as meat bought from the wet market. To avoid food contamination, especially if you live in coastal areas where bacteria could thrive easily, consider removing the food within 15 minutes of not being touched by your pup. This will also help the puppy get disciplined into only eating when they are truly hungry and not out of boredom. Once your Labrador puppy turns 11 weeks old, you could be surprised at their sudden growth. You may find yourself constantly buying stocks of puppy food since this is their peak developmental stage. Either way, as long as you stick as close to the schedule as possible, everything will be fine. Stick to feeding your Labrador retriever puppy about three to four meals per day. If your pup is extra active throughout the day, they might need up to 3 cups of food per day, equally divided into the meals we mentioned. By having three different meals, you are ensuring that your pup gets the right weight and a good amount of nutrition. After all, lab pups tend to eat a lot if not supervised! During their 13th week, lab puppies are likely to roam around and look for items that they might mistake as food. Your job, as their owner, is to keep an eye out for these objects and hide them before little Fido chews them! At times, a Labrador pup might look hungry due to excessive begging, but in reality, it could just be a behavior, so make sure the feeding schedule is strictly followed. It will also be a great bonding time with their owner! Recommended Food for Labrador Puppies On average, your Labrador pup should have around calories if they weigh around 22 pounds. Of course, this number will vary depending on their age, weight, genetics, and daily activities. With that said, what should you feed your lab puppy? Here are some great ideas on what to feed your pup, which can be found in both store food and raw diet plans. Meaty protein As with all dogs and most active breeds, a Labrador retriever needs a generous amount of protein in its diet. This includes chicken, beef, and fish, as well as other wild sources. Always look into the ingredients and make sure that a specific meat source is the first ingredient. If you are feeding raw meat instead of kibble, make sure it is handled properly to avoid bacterial infection. Another option is to incorporate canned wet puppy food with kibble, but make sure it is filler-free. Omega fatty acids Omega fatty acids are commonly found in fish and other seafood. Fish such as mackerel are good for lab puppies to boost their heart health. Aside from that, some omega fatty acids can improve their skin and coat appearance, which will help in handling irritations in the future. We all know the pain of grooming a shedding dog! Vegetables and fruits Greens are important for puppies as well because they will help with their overall digestion and their immune system. Organ meat You may also want to add organ meat to your puppy food, especially if you are feeding raw. Kidneys and liver are common organ meat to look for in a Labrador puppy diet. Organs can be found in store-bought wet or canned food but you can also prepare it at home from the market. Be sure to handle it properly to avoid food contamination. Foods with glucosamine As mentioned above, joint problems are often experienced by labs when they grow up. To prevent the onset of hip or elbow dysplasia, consider foods that are rich in glucosamine, such as shellfish, chicken feet, and beef bones. Bone soup or broth is also a good source of glucosamine. Foods to Avoid While we have some recommended foods for a lab puppy, there are also certain ingredients that you should avoid, such as the following: Fillers such as corn and wheat These fillers are often included in most commercial dog foods. Look for foods with fewer fillers and more protein. An obese puppy may grow into an unhealthy and unhappy dog later on in life. They can catch all sorts of health problems if their weight is not managed properly. For instance, hip dysplasia is more likely to happen if your puppy is too heavy. Moreover, sugary foods will cause diabetes if not supervised. Human foods toxic to dogs These include chocolate, garlic, avocado, grapes, lime, coffee caffeine , lemons, tea, onions, sugary foods, macadamia nuts, and most certainly alcohol. Here are some frequently asked concerns about their meals, diet, and more. If you notice a big change in their appetite, it can be a cause for concern. Changes in their regular food are a normal reason for a puppy to suddenly stop eating because it is new to them. Have you tried gradually changing the food in portions? First, put a little bit of the new food and more of the old food, and then gradually increase the portion of the new food after a few meals. Should I give my Labrador puppy supplements? Generally, lab puppies will already get the nutrients they need from the food you buy or prepare for them. Puppy food is usually manufactured and made to have more nutrients as compared to adult dog food, which is why it should already be sufficient for your Labrador puppy. When can I switch my Labrador puppy to adult food? The best time to make the switch is after their first birthday. Usually, by this time, your pup has reached adulthood and is no longer growing in height and weight. Keep in mind that transitioning from puppy to adult food still requires the ratio method. Put a little bit of the adult food at first into the puppy food mix. Raw feeding a Labrador puppy Many raw diet advocates stress the benefits of feeding this way, such as becoming free from fillers and artificial additives. Get your veterinarian or breeder involved if you want to start feeding a raw diet to your Labrador puppy because when done wrong, it could make your pup sick! Conclusion Labrador puppies, when fed properly, carefully, and smartly, will reward you with TLC and a warm companion for the years to come. Be sure to always stick to the schedule or else it could lead to obesity and joint problems later on! Always make time to prepare the best food for your Labrador pup so that they grow healthy and strong — enjoying life as they go! How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The source of protein matters when considering a high-quality diet. FATS The rest of the diet should be made up of fats, carbs, and vitamins. Labs need to have a correct protein -to-fat ratio, where protein takes the lead. Dogs tend to convert fat into glucose, so this is an important source of energy. Dogs rely mostly on protein and fats, but carbs are necessary. That said, a low carb diet is best for puppies. However, you still need the right percentage of carbs, since this gives your dog the sensation of being full. These include starches, fibers, and sugars. Try to opt for more complex carbs like starchy grain and veggies because these are easier to digest. Your Lab puppy will thrive when his or her diet includes: Vitamin B12 especially during puppy development , Vitamins A and E, C, Vitamin D, phosphorus, and calcium, Potassium Each of these required vitamins and minerals contributes to a healthy, happy, and energetic puppy. They also help offset issues like obesity. Vitamins A and E are important because they help your dog burn calories and promote eye and skin health. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, on the other hand, are part of a trifecta that works to strengthen teeth and bones. Potassium is a heart health-preserver. Labs with poor genetics are especially prone to orthopedic issues. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are common health problems for this breed. Glucosamine, an amino-sugar, together with chondroitin sulfate, helps replace and support naturally degrading cartilage during old age. Recently,"grain-free" foods are being championed as a preferred and even high-quality form of dog food. That's, not the whole story. An investigation launched by the FDA revealed that there are potential links between a form of canine heart disease and grain-free foods. So far, researchers have provided an update to this researchers have provided an update to this research staring that the issue may not just be grain-free diets. Grain-free may be part of other trends knows as "BEG"- boutique companies. Puppy diets don't' need to be complicated. They also don't need to include ingredients that humans might enjoy. Enjoyment doesn't necessarily bring any nutritional value to your puppy's development. Keep it simple, using the guidelines for fats, proteins, and carbs above and don't shy away from food with grains in them. It's not their presence that's a problem it's often the ratio. There shouldn't be more carbs or grains than protein. Nor does including only legumes, seeds, lentils, or chickpeas as the primary ingredients make the food more superior. It's perfectly healthy to include complex carb sources like starchy rice and other grains. Grain-free isn't and shouldn't be a qualifying factor for your choice in puppy food. Feeding Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is dried, pelleted food that stores well is easy to eat, and is pre-formulated with everything your puppy needs to thrive and grow in his early developmental months. There are plenty of popular brands that don't measure up to the Snowy Pines standard. That's why it's so vital for you to learn how to read puppy food labels. Puppies should stick with "puppy stage" food, while adults should stick to bags marked "adults. Instead, your dog should have regular bowel movements, allowing them to absorb all the nutrients available. You should also keep in mind that caloric intake is calculated a little differently for puppies. Kibble diets are measured by how many calories the proteins, fats, and carbs represent for each gram. For puppies, this should be 3. Sticking to these ratios will help ensure your kibble choice is a healthy one. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. You may have to supplement with dry food, especially if you're trying to keep the calories of carbs, proteins, and fats in the right per-gram ratio. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing 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, you can 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 a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still 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 at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador 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, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 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, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors 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 may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large 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. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador 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 Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab 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.
Profile[ ] Cookie's first focus episode was " The General ", where she found herself disillusioned after meeting her idol, Dolly, and discovering she wasn't what she thought she was. Dolly helps to bring out Cookie's feminine side, but Cookie takes things a little too far, losing her focus and jeopardizing the team's plan to have sixty-seven puppies adopted in the same day. Dolly was able to snap her out of it, and Cookie successfully directed the plan to completion. Afterwards, Cookie was given a parting gift by Dolly: A pink bow, which Cookie would wear from that episode onward. After the "dog" was revealed to be a coyote named Fang , Cookie, undeterred, nursed him back to health, taught him some of the dogs' ways, and convinced him to help get Buddy back to his home. During the course of the journey, Cookie and Fang fell in love, and Cookie decided to leave for the wild with him. However, Fang led his pack to Buddy's home that very night, seeking to steal their food. Lucky and the others arrived, and a confrontation seemed imminent. However, Cookie was able to defuse the situation, telling Fang that he was a wild animal, and that she had a home, so they could not stay together. As Cookie left with the Pound Puppies, Fang howled at the moon. Cookie with Cupcake In " Mutternal Instincts ", Cookie took a liking to a new puppy, Cupcake , to the point where she actively prevented her from being adopted. After Cupcake was accidentally dropped onto a truck bound for the city dump, Cookie was finally convinced to let her be adopted. Ironically, Cupcake was soon after adopted by Cookie's own family , reuniting them. In " Hot Dawg! Fortunately, Antonio was able to convince them to be friends again. Along the way, Cookie and Lucky came close to admitting their feelings for each other. When they finally arrived at the farm where Giblet's new owner lived, she and Lucky finally found out that they had feelings for each other. In " Lucky Has to Move ", Cookie was naturally aghast at the revelation that Lucky's family would be moving, and helped to try and prevent it. When they fail, she tearfully shared a farewell nuzzle with Lucky. A short while later, Cookie and the rest of the Pound Puppies are overjoyed to learn that Lucky's family ended up moving next door to Shelter 17, allowing Lucky to stay. Hub Network Description[ ] This boxer mix with the no-nonsense stare is always itching for some action. Tough and loyal, Cookie is really softie at heart. Smart, fast on her feet, and protective by nature, she's the perfect as Lucky's right-paw dog. Personality[ ] Cookie is an outwardly tough and stern, but deeply kind and caring dog, with a particular soft spot for puppies Cookie looking stern. She is owned by a large family , and is a major part of their daily routine. Cookie has a fiery temper, and will not hesitate to put others in their place. Cookie has a crush on Lucky , but cannot bring herself to admit it to him, fearing that it will undermine her position as his trusted second-in-command, since she is the dog Lucky relies on the most to get the job done. Cookie loves her adopted daughter, Cupcake. Appearance[ ] Cookie's body has mainly brown fur, but her eyelids are a darker brown, which makes her look like she is wearing eyeshadow. Her ears were darker brown, like her eyelids, and are small and a little curved at the end. She has white fur that begins a little bit under her her neck; it starts off wavy then becomes straight that stops a little bit before her tail. She has a white muzzle with a black nose that has a tip that is in between her eyes. On her feet is white fur on her paws that stop a little bit over her ankle that end in a wave. She has white sharp teeth but there are two notable sharp teeth which can be seen sometimes when when she opens her mouth, smiles, talks, etc. On her neck, she wears a black collar with silver rings on it and her Pound Puppies tag. Before the episode " The General ", Cookie's eyelashes were not visible, but after the episode Cookie had longer eyelashes and she wore the pink bow that Dolly gave to her as a gift, and continues to wear it from that episode and onward. Development and Design[. Pound Puppies[ edit ] The following dogs appear regularly in the series. Well-adjusted and intelligent, but strict, he exudes authority and is often obeyed without question. However, in "When Niblet Met Giblet", he tried to show Cookie his feelings, even going as far as holding her paw. He never gets to confess because Lucky is always interrupted. As shown in an official plush toy, his last name is "Smarts". He was described by McLeish, owner and manager of the pound as "the scruffy, sneaky one who always seems to be here. While it is revealed that Lucky actually has six brothers and three sisters, he thought he had five, but after meeting up with his father again as in "I Never Barked for My Father" , he found out he had one more younger brother. His catchphrase is "Go, dogs, go" which he says to get the dogs to go into action. Every time Lucky wants to confess that he loves her they get interrupted. Cookie dislikes getting her stomach touched. In "Mutternal Instincts", she grows close to a puppy she affectionately names Cupcake and, at the end, her family adopts her. As shown in an official plush toy, her full name is "Sugar Cookie". He has a little sister named Rebound. Although Niblet isn't the smartest of the group, he means well. Niblet also has been shown to love peanut butter. Niblet also is the only dog of the main 5 who is shown not wearing a collar with a keychain on it. He is also the only dog of the main 5 who did not have any form of owner. She is usually assisted by squirrels due to her lack of opposable thumbs and is the most intelligent dog in the group. For a small dog, she has a big ego and is extremely cocky, but she does love her friends, and can be kind and brave. She brags how smart she is and tends to show off her intelligence. She often works in the background, which often makes her jealous of the other main 5 dogs. In Season 3, it is revealed that Strudel used to have an owner, who was a scientist. Squirt voiced by Michael Rapaport — A yellow Chihuahua. The smallest and most street-smart of the group; Niblet's closest companion in the series. Squirt can be negative, but he will always be there for his team. Since he is the smallest member of the team, he sometimes ends up in wacky costumes in order to complete missions, including a cat, possum, rabbit, and flower. Squirt also had a friend named Peewee which he thought was eaten by an alligator. He gets adopted by accident in Season 2. Rebound voiced by Brooke Goldner — Niblet's little sister. True to her namesake, she was adopted and returned to the pound many times due to her overenthusiastic nature. She finally finds her forever home with Agatha McLeish. Cupcake voiced by Cree Summer — A puppy who is Cookie's adopted daughter. She is a member of the Super Secret Pup Club. She is smart and quick-thinking, although sometimes her puppy energy gets her into sticky situations. Introduced in the Season 1 episode, "Mutternal Instincts", she started off as a cute and innocent character. However, after she joined the Super Secret Pup Club, she had a more down-to-earth personality. According to an official plush toy, his last name is "McFrisky". His last name, which is McLeish, is a play on the word "leash". While he really doesn't like his career and wishes for a better one, he doesn't have a clue about the Pound Puppies' operations. He may have a sister, because the mayor is his brother-in-law. His mother is Agatha McLeish. He is in charge of new dog arrivals and assists pound visitors in finding a matching pet they could adopt. Like McLeish, he is unaware of the Pound Puppies' operations. He has started dating Gertrude Washburn the librarian as of the episode "Olaf in Love". She is somewhat strict with her son but dotes on Rebound. Milton Feltwaddle recurring character, voiced by Jim Parsons — An uptight businessman determined to change Shelter 17 for what he believes is the better. He acts kind and pleasant in public and in front of children, but underneath, he has a very self-centered personality. He is constantly pushing McLeish to do things for him, and berates him for making mistakes. He cares little for potential voters, desiring only their votes, and likes to mock them behind their backs. Ketchum recurring character — The silent animal control officer who frequently brings the puppies to Shelter 17, thus instigating the episodes' events. For the most part, he appears emotionless, but in the series finale, he expressed excitement when McLeish fired him. She is the only human who knows that the dogs can talk. Claudio recurring character, voiced by Jeff Bennett — An Italian fisherman who appears in several episodes. Recurring characters[ edit ] Dolly voiced by E. Daily - Also known as "the General", she is a pink poodle who is a near-legendary member to the Pound Puppies network. Ralph voiced by Fred Stoller — A Labrador Retriever adult dog who is lazy and rarely pays attention to his surroundings. He shows an interest in chewing shoes. She is serious about becoming a police dog and is strict. Her perfect person is a boy named Charlie, who too wants to become a policeman. Even after Sarge, Charlie's father's dog, turned down Pepper, Pepper didn't let that stop her just like Cookie and Cupcake, Lucky could show affection for Pepper. Cats[ edit ] The Kennel Kittens are a group of cats who help find homes for kittens. Their goals sometimes bring them into conflict with the Pound Puppies. They first appeared in "Catcalls" and last appeared in "Hello Kitten". He is a Bicolor cat and a cat version of Lucky, the leader of Shelter .Just like Cookie, she's second in command of Shelter .Instead of pink, the bow on her head is yellow. If not, here is the form! Get a bite of what is happening at WCBR, our dogs, our amazing adopters and all the incredible people that keep this rescue going! Email Address Woot Woo! We will never keep you chained or leashed to our list. You can run free at anytime, unsubscribe at the bottom of any emails you receive. We are so excited to have you in the fun! His love and compassion for Boxers was felt by those who had the pleasure of spending time with him. Ken loved sports and spending time with friends. He also collected sports memorabilia and other collectibles like Hot Wheels. He truly loved Milo, featured in the the photo with him. Every time we received a message from him he included a picture of him and Milo. He never gave up hope that some treatment would be the ultimate cure. He worked as long as he could and made his journey to the light in late June. His weakened system just couldn't fight any longer. He will be deeply missed by WCBR, and we wish his family peace with his loss. Thank you to so many who have donated to WCBR in his memory. Ken will forever be in our hearts. We need your help. The number of Boxers being surrendered by families and in the shelters is overwhelming. We continue to receive owner surrenders a week, along with multiple pleas from surrounding shelters for Boxers in need. So many Boxer are coming from families that are no longer able to financially care for them, just don't want them, many are dealing with illness or the Boxer's pet parent has passed away, and many just are moving. Without the funding or foster homes, sadly we have to turn away these surrenders. Please Foster, Fund or be a Forever Home. Petey Donor Spotlight: Doreen Murotsune For many of us who give our hearts, time, or dollars to rescue, we are first inspired by the love of a single special dog. Hana belonged to friends of Doreen, but Doreen and her boxer, Benjamin, fell in love with her. Benjamin and Hana were best friends, and Benjamin was always on the lookout for Hana and ready to protect her from any yappy Chihuahua who tried to intimidate her. In addition to being an active Strut Your Mutt teammate for each of the past 5 years, Doreen browses the boxers in our care and sponsors many dogs whose stories warm her heart. She not only sponsors dogs with single or repeat financial gifts, but also inquires about dogs with prescription diet needs and then purchases those diets on an autoship schedule, having the food mailed directly to foster homes. Planned Giving If you have ever loved a dog, you know that — while their lives are short in comparison to ours — the love you share is timeless. By including NorCal Boxer Rescue in your Will or Trust or naming the organization as a beneficiary on certain accounts, you ensure that for years to come, NCBR is able to continue rescuing boxers, providing them the care they need, and uniting them with families who will love them forever. Dogs are an incredibly important part of our lives. You can make them a part of your heritage. Click here to learn about the different options. Growing Old with You We know that the best place for an old dog is home with loved ones. Click here to find out more about the Growing Old with You program. Grey Muzzle Thank You! We are so honored to be a Grey Muzzle Organization grantee again this year! We know that many of you have a soft spot for frosted faces, but that the cost of caring for a senior boxer has given you pause when it comes to adopting one. We hope that this support will give you the security you need to give your heart away to a beautiful older soul. Thank you, Grey Muzzle, for trusting in us and for supporting our efforts! We are grateful for your partnership! Thank you, Hoven Foundation. Each dog who enters our lives is a gift. They bring us untold joy and share with us their unconditional love. They teach us to be better people. For nearly 10 years, The Hoven Foundation has not only appreciated the gift that each dog represents, but they have given back generously. The continued support of the Hoven Foundation has meant the difference between life and death for countless beautiful souls. Thank you to the Hoven Foundation for what you give to our dogs and, in turn, to all those whose lives those dogs touch. Join Our Mailing List! NCBR is a c 3 nonprofit and donations are tax deductible. We now accept vehicle donations! Donate your car, boat, RV, motorcycle or farm equipment. Plus you get a tax deduction! Call RIDE to donate or learn more. Upcoming Events.
Located just 7 miles north of Covington, LA. For over 40 years, we have been providing the people of Louisiana with some of the finest Golden Retrievers. Fifteen years ago, we integrated Golden Doodles into our breeding program. If you are looking to add a member to your family, contact Hunnington Farms today. We have puppies for sale that are looking for that perfect home. Hunnington Farms is a breeding facility that believes in breeding the finest animals. We are a family-owned farm that started breeding dogs purely out of love for the animals. The way our dogs have always enriched our lives and assisted in running our farm made us want to breed the same dogs. We firmly believe the best possible dog breed for a single owner or a family with children are Golden Doodles and Golden Retrievers. No matter what trait you are looking for in your next pet, Hunnington Farms breeds the perfect dog for you. If a loyal, fun loving, ultra obedient and a true lifelong friend is what you want, we have the finest Golden Retriever puppies in Louisiana. If you? Thank you for visiting our website. Here you will find valuable information on the breeds we provide and the puppies we have for sale. We are a full service farm that has transformed a small portion into our breeding haven. We follow all AKC breeding requirements and go the extra mile to provide every home with the highest quality pet. All of our breeding dogs are OFA certified for hips, patellas, elbows, dental, and heart. We look forward to hearing from you. Learn About The Breeds. GSGRR is a c 3 nonprofit organization run by a small group of volunteers. We provide our dogs with veterinary care including spaying or neutering as necessary, evaluate their temperament, and socialize them by having them live with foster families. Then the dogs are matched with loving, carefully selected adoptive homes. We place our dogs in adoptive homes in the Gulf South. Each GSGRR member, officer, and foster care provider is a totally unpaid volunteer with family and work commitments. We strive to respond quickly to every inquiry received, but more importantly, we want to place the right dog in the right home. Should you not receive a timely reply, please click here for our main email address. If you would like more information on a dog available for adoption, please click on petfinder website. Yes, we get youngsters! Please note that we take in dogs of all ages. Because we typically have a waiting list of approved clients, many dogs are adopted before they have a chance to get onto the website. So if you don't see exactly the dog you're looking for listed here, please fill out an application and let us know what you're looking for. We will do our best to find the right dog for you! Here is some information on the Darlene Fund- for special needs dogs. They will help defray the costs associated with our Golden Retriever rescue program. Click below to make a secure payment via Paypal, or send a check to the address below. We are exempt from federal income tax under section a of the Internal Revenue Code as an organization described in section c 3. Your donations are considered tax deductible. Thank you! We're located in the heart of the Arkansas mountains the Ozarks , and our pups grow up on a ten-acre farm. We are looking for dedicated families to adopt our fur babies and love them like we do. We are not a discount breeder; we take this job of placing each pup very seriously and their future and well-being is of utmost importance. Please contact Dogwood Farms if you're ready for this loving commitment. CALL The Dogwood Difference When you purchase a fur baby from Dogwood Farms, they come complete with a puppy care package which includes: a care package, AKC registration paperwork, immunizations completed by a licensed veterinarian along with immunization paperwork and food each pup is used to eating. We are dedicated to these dogs and our promise is to make sure you have the support and equipment you need to take wonderful care of your new fur baby. We also have in person delivery options for each of our puppies. Rates available to St. In Person Flight options are also available as well to most major airports across the nation for example to California, Florida, New York and even Alaska. If for any reason you need to re-home your fur baby, we are more than willing to help you with that process. Life Span Did You Know? This cross is meant to produce a smaller version of a Golden Retriever that retains the classic Golden look and their characteristic friendly and sweet temperament. Mini Golden Retrievers tend to maintain a temperament very similar to Golden Retrievers. They tend to have a sweet, open, and friendly nature. Mini Goldens get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. These dogs tend to make great family pets and can also be found working as service dogs or therapy dogs. Due to their smaller size, the Miniature Golden Retriever is a highly adaptable dog breed. As long as they get enough exercise, they are happy in apartments as well as larger homes with yards. They also do well in just about any climate. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold. Because these dogs are so people-oriented, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time as they would much rather be an active member of the family. For Mini Golden Retrievers, these could include elbow dysplasia, heart issues, eye disease, and hip dysplasia. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and checking out available health clearances or tests can help allay potential health concerns. All of the dog breeds in the cross for a Mini Golden Retriever are highly trainable. So, these dogs tend to be highly trainable, intelligent, and eager to please their owners. They tend to be a good fit for dog owners of all experience levels, including first-time dog owners. They respond best to positive training methods focused on praise, play, and reward. Although the aim is to have the Miniature Golden Retriever look just like a smaller version of a Golden Retriever, there will be variance in the coats because it is a mixed dog breed. You may have puppies that look identical to a Golden Retriever or you may have puppies with tightly curled or wavy coats from their Poodle or Spaniel parents. With the Poodle in the cross, there may be a chance of a low-shedding coat, but you will want to be prepared for a dog that will shed moderately year-round and that requires regular brushing and bathing with the occasional professional grooming session. Floppy ears tend to be more prone to ear infections, but regular checks and careful cleaning can help prevent them. Dental care for dogs is so important. But, it is often overlooked, which is why dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. The Miniature Golden Retriever is likely to be a high energy dog that requires plenty of exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks, plus playtime and some extra activity should be sufficient for this dog. They will likely enjoy any activity that means they get to do things with you, which means they may enjoy hiking with you, taking trips to the dog park , swimming, or even training to compete in dog sports. A fully-grown Miniature Golden Retriever usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Mini Golden Retriever generally lives years. Dwarfism does occur in Golden Retrievers, which results in a smaller Golden Retriever and can also cause additional health concerns. Meeting the parent breeds in person and asking to see health tests can help you verify that you have a Mini Golden Retriever. Miniature Golden Retriever Puppies for Sale. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.
photos of bulldog puppies - German Shepherd Itching Constantly? None of us want to see our German Shepherd itching like crazy and constantly in discomfort. Or, worse—in pain from their own skin! But there are solutions for German Shepherd allergies and dry skin that you can use right now to help your dog from itching like crazy. And you can do them right now, too! Although food is rarely a cause of dry skin or allergies, in many dogs a change in diet dramatically decreases itchy skin. While there are plenty of sensitive diets on the market you should try Purina Pro Plan Focus Sensitive Formula which has no soy, wheat, peas, or corn. German Shepherd itchy skin might also happen if your current feeding routine lacks proper nutrition. Choosing a sensitive or hypoallergic dog food is a quick way to help your German Shepherd from itching like crazy. If your dog has special medical conditions, check with your vet first to make sure a change in diet will help with their scratchy and itchy skin issues. Look for a shampoo that contains coal tar which moisturizes and calms the red, irritated skin. Beware… Over bathing can cause more irritation by stripping the skin of natural oils and removing the protective layer. This can increase itching and scratching. Only bathe your dog with the medicated shampoo as needed to control their symptoms. They are also convenient and easy to use throughout the day. Look for a spray that contains aloe vera and vitamin e, both of which moisturize the skin. I use this spray for my itching German Shepherd and her skin felt moisturized and looked healthier after only a few applications. For areas you think are infected or extremely irritated, try a thicker cream that also offers pain relief, like this Sulfodene ointment. My GSD immediately shows signs of relief upon application! Use soft strokes and a brush with rounded tips. Specifically, try a rake brush that removes the dead undercoat. My GSD loves the rake brush, and this helps her to have the excess dead hair removed so that her skin can breathe more. This reduces the efficiency of the oil glands and causes your GSD to itch constantly and like crazy. Add Anti-Inflammatory Supplements to their Diet Research shows that omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help reduce skin inflammation and increase skin moisture in some dogs. You want o use a blended oil like this salmon oil with hemp oil blend because it produces outstanding coat and skin results that help your dog to itch less while giving them a shiny, healthy coat. It may take 4 to 6 weeks or even several months for your dog to feel the benefits of an omega supplement and for you to see the benefits. Begin before the cold seasons to avoid having a German Shepherd itching in winter or because of allergies. Most dogs enjoy the oil as a treat on top of their usual kibble. My German Shepherd itches and licks her paws a lot in spring because of grass and pollen allergies. Use a brand that has ingredients to help with scratching and itching. You need a wipe with soothing ingredients found in them, such as Tropiclean Oxy Med Allergy Relief Wipes that give your dog clean skin to lessen irritations. Use these dry skin tips! Deicing solutions and salt on the walkways increase skin dryness. Remember, in the winter your German Shepherd needs special attention to their skin: Be sure to keep paw cleaning and wiping products by your door. Upon returning from every walk use them to remove any debris. Brush them thoroughly to help distribute their natural oils after walking outdoors in winter and apply an anti-itch spray and ointments if necessary. Run a Humidifier Adding moisture back to the air helps some dogs decrease their scratching, especially during the winter months and in dry climates. Especially if they enjoy lying close to the heat! Humidifiers come in a variety of models and sizes and both in a cool mist and warm mist options. Avoid Using Room or Fragrance Sprays Some German Shepherd allergies are brought on or worsened by unnatural, chemical-laden room and fragrance or perfume sprays. Avoid using these items, including the plug-in room fragrance models, if you suspect your German Shepherd has allergies or is itching constantly. The chemicals can even cause allergies to become worse in German Shepherds or they can develop breathing problems when you use too many chemicals products around them. Switch to a more natural cleaning option when possible. Use the following helpful information to understand why your GSD may have allergies and what contributes to allergies and scratching. German Shepherds are prone to a variety of skin problems because of flea or insect allergies, food allergies, inhalant allergies, and skin contact allergies. Some GSDs are also itchy because of medicine allergies either over the counter or prescribed and even genetic allergies. This leads to a lower quality of life and possible serious medical and health complications. Itchy German Shepherd? Use this list to see if your dog might have an allergy to one or multiple items that causes them to itch like crazy: Food Allergy wheat, unusual proteins like bison, kangaroo, etc. Parasite Allergy fleas, ticks, etc. Environmental Factors cold weather, dry air, fragrance sprays, commercial cleansers, carpet powders, mold, etc. Always seek vet advice when in doubt. You can also provide temporary and sometimes long-term relief using the process of elimination and the home treatments for skin problems previously listed. How to help my German Shepherd from itching and scratching? Treating a German Shepherd with itchy skin at home can help decrease their itching and scratching so they are more comfortable and regain healthy skin. Your GSD might just need a change of diet or a quick spray of anti-itch solution. There are simple ways to help your German Shepherd from itching and scratching like crazy. Most of the treatments you can order from home and apply right away. Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. While they sound like they are insects similar to fleas, they are actually more like spiders, just in parasite form. As well, the longer you wait to seek out diagnosis and treatment, the more likely a minor issue with mites will turn into sarcoptic mange, or scabies, a much more serious condition. As Veterinary Partner explains, because the mites feed on dead skin, they like the more hairless areas on your dog like the ears, belly, or joints. Unfortunately, sarcoptic mange is not easy to diagnose because the symptoms are quite a lot like other skin allergies and conditions that can affect a German Shepherd. Your veterinarian may need to rule out other issues and do several tests. Even after a firm diagnosis is made, your dog will probably need a range of treatments, including antibiotics, topical shampoos or solutions, oral treatments, dips, and topical itch-relief products. You can see how severe the mange issues can become and also how effective treatment can be once a proper diagnosis is made. The big difference between scabies and Demodex is that the scabies mite is a definite invader, while the Demodex mite is always present on the skin. Typically, as long as your German Shepherd stays healthy with a strong immune system, the mites will live peacefully inside the hair follicles. But if there is any disruption to the immune system function, the mites may start to cause itching. The most common warning sign besides intense itching is patchy hair loss. In fact, current estimates indicate as many as 10 percent of all dogs alive today may be suffering from some degree of food allergies. Interestingly, food allergies in people are also on the rise. While researchers are not completely sure what is causing this uptick in interspecies food allergies, there are several suspects, from GMOs genetically modified organisms to global toxins. Certain foods are known to be more prone to causing food allergies in German Shepherds and other dog breeds. Chicken, fish, beef, eggs, dairy, soy, wheat gluten , rabbit, pig pork , and lamb are some of the most frequently cited food-based allergens. However, a German Shepherd may also have sensitivities to additional foods. For example, peanuts are known to be more prone to fungus, which can cause intense allergies in some dogs. Veterinarians who specialize in allergies and immunology are not sure exactly why dogs have sensitivities to foods that might ordinarily be a big part of their diets such as chicken and lamb. Even if your dog previously was able to eat the food item, over time sensitivity can develop and it may be necessary to remove that food from the diet going forward. One theory is that commercial livestock operations often give breeding animals and young animals antibiotics to try to ward off illness and infection. Some breeds are also naturally more likely to have food allergies and German Shepherds are one of those breeds. Your veterinarian will likely do some allergy testing to narrow down the search. Another option many veterinarians prescribe is to adopt a limited ingredient diet to see if the symptoms clear up on their own. Rather, it is important to rule out both behavioral as well as environmental causes to see what causes the itching to clear up. Behavior reasons why your GSD might be scratching Some German Shepherds may actually just need more enrichment, exercise, activity, or playtime. Because the GSD is such a sensitive and intelligent dog breed, these dogs can start to self-harm by chewing at the skin if they get bored or lonely. Boredom can lead to other destructive behaviors like digging , chewing things around the house, and barking. Systemic reasons why your GSD might be scratching Problems with thyroid function, endocrine disruption or immune system malfunction can also cause skin that dries out and becomes itchy. Sometimes testing reveals a hidden metabolic or systemic disease or sensitivity that is the real cause of the itching. Environmental reasons why your GSD might be scratching German Shepherds can be very sensitive to environmental toxins, including exposure to herbicides or pesticides or insecticides, toxic house or lawn plants, air pollution, seasonal pollen, mold or mildew, and similar triggers for scratching. It can be worth taking a second look at your lawn care and gardening products as well as what may be growing in and around areas where you and your dog walk regularly. Regular brushing and grooming can help you spot developing problems before they get out of control. Going forward, when you brush your dog each week, take time to examine the skin, ears, paw pads, tail, and belly areas, joints, and face for any signs of skin redness, hot spots, irritation, or inflammation. As well, it often helps to keep a journal so you can record what happened just before your dog experienced a bout of scratching. Does your dog seem to itch more after meals or yard time? These are valuable clues that can help quickly diagnose and treat the scratching issue. German Shepherd Itching Constantly? There are many different types of hypoallergenic and sensitive dog foods. These have been specially formulated to reduce the risk of allergic reactions as far as possible. By reducing the number of issues that their system has to contend with, you are likely to alleviate their itchiness. Common allergens found in dog foods are dairy proteins, chicken, lamb, beef, eggs, gluten, and soy. As well as this any chicken meal, fat, eggs, cartilage, grains, lentils, peas, potatoes, flaxseeds, fish, and yeast. If your dog is allergic to any of these things then their bodies will produce antibodies and antigens as part of its immune response. If you suspect that this is one of the problems with your dog, your vet may ask you to do an elimination trial. This is where you feed your dog a carefully controlled hypoallergenic diet for between 8 and 12 weeks. This diet cannot contain any foods that your dog has consumed in the past and does not allow for your dog to be fed with treats or supplements. Your vet may also perform a serum IgE test, which is a type of blood test. This will give them an indication as to what foods your dog may be sensitive to. Alternatively, your dog may be itchy if they are not being fed appropriate nutrition. They may be deficient in vitamins, carbohydrates, proteins, or fats. The blood test will indicate this to your vet too. This can also cause itchiness. It is vital to feed your dog the correct diet to keep them healthy and well. This will also help to improve the quality of their coat, making it shiny and luxurious. We recommend using an oil blend, such as salmon and hemp. This is unlikely to trigger an allergic reaction and will work beautifully to produce a healthy coat and skin. To feed it to them, all you need to do is pour a little of the oil over the top of their kibble at mealtimes. You will not notice results immediately after you begin to feed the oil blend to your dog. It is likely to take somewhere between 4 and 6 weeks to notice the benefits. We strongly suggest that you begin to incorporate this fatty supplement into their diet before the cold season begins. This will help to reduce the chances of your German Shepherd becoming itchy and ill over the winter. These will help to boost their immune and digestive systems. Probiotics will also help to reduce the inflammatory response of their bodies to any allergens present in their environment. There is evidence to suggest that these supplements can also help to protect your dog from immunological attacks. Change their shampoo There are many different types of medicated shampoo that are ideal for treating itchy dogs. These will help to soothe their inflamed skin and reduce the itchy sensation. They are super simple to use and relatively inexpensive to purchase. Your shampoo should contain a compound known as coal tar. This is commonly used as a treatment for eczema and psoriasis as it is incredibly soothing on broken and irritated skin. It is also a highly effective treatment for overly oily fur and dandruff. You can purchase coal tar shampoos designed for both human and canine use. You should not wash your dog too often as this can also lead to problems. If you over wash your dog, you can strip the natural oils out of their coat and off their skin. This can actually lead to even more itchiness and further complications. It is a good idea to bathe them every months, or more often if recommended by your veterinarian. You should always rinse your dog twice thoroughly to ensure all of the shampoo residues have come off of their coat. Use moisturizer There are many different moisturizing skin sprays and ointments available to treat your German Shepherd. These help to keep their skin hydrated, therefore reducing irritation and itchiness. Sprays are highly convenient to apply throughout the day and will not cause you much inconvenience. You should look for sprays and ointments that contain Vitamin E and aloe vera. Both of these are very moisturizing and will massively help your dog. Apply liberally to areas that seem most affected. These sprays are clinically formulated to have veterinarian quality impacts from the comfort of your home. For really itchy and affected areas, it is wise to use an ointment or thicker cream for more of an impact. This can also be applied to small cuts and sores for instant relief. It will also help to eradicate any loose hairs that may be causing them irritation. We recommend grooming your German Shepherd with a rake brush with rounded tips, 2 to 3 times per week. During shedding season, in the spring and fall months, you will need to brush your dog every day. This is because they will be losing a huge quantity of fur and will need some assistance to ensure the dead hair does not just collect in their coat. If your dog lives indoors, they are likely to shed slightly less than outdoor dogs. Ideally, this brush will have a double row as these will remove the most hair with ease. Use soft but firm strokes in the direction of hair growth. We recommend using a rake brush. This is because German Shepherds have 2 coats of hair, and this type of brush will remove dead hairs from their undercoat. Neglecting to brush your dog will result in a thick blanket of hair growing over the skin and preventing adequate air circulation. This means that their oil glands can become clogged and can make your dog incredibly itchy. Wash them often This is a particularly important step during allergy seasons such as late spring and summer. If your dog is sensitive to pollen and goes outside, they will drag the pollen back in with them on their fur. This can cause them to have continuing allergic reactions, even when indoors. This will reduce the amount of grass and pollen that they come into contact with and can reduce allergic reactions. Invest in a humidifier If the air is particularly dry, this can cause your German Shepherd to itch too. This is particularly prevalent during the winter months when electric heaters and log fireplaces are running. Humidifiers work by introducing more moisture into the air. This can help to alleviate some skin conditions and improve the overall health of your dog. They can emit either a warm or a cool mist, and some are capable of both. You should place the humidifier close to where your dog spends most of its time. This will help to ensure they get as much benefit from the humidifier as possible. It is a good idea to place the humidifier out of reach of your dog to ensure they do not knock it over and hurt themselves. Do not point it directly at your dog as they may become wary and move if any mist or discharge from the humidifier is suddenly sent their way. Do not use fragrance sprays The respiratory and olfactory systems of dogs are far superior to that of humans. Their sense of smell is more than times stronger than a human, meaning that they are incredibly sensitive to odors. There are many smells, such as ylang-ylang, which can actually irritate and cause harm to your dog. If your German Shepherd is already itching, their symptoms may be worsened by the use of room fragrances or perfume sprays. We do not recommend burning scented candles or incense in the vicinity of your dog. In extreme cases, you may wish to consider stopping using aerosol deodorant and perfume sprays. Change your household cleaning products Commercially available cleaning products can cause your dog to itch. Many chemicals can trigger allergic reactions or respiratory issues in your dog. There are lots of naturally formulated cleaning products available that will reduce the reactions in your dog. Look for products that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Allow all surfaces that have had chemicals applied to them to dry completely before you let your dog near them. Other home remedies for itching A completely natural way to treat your dog is through the use of apple cider vinegar. Use this as a rinse to alleviate symptoms of itching. Dilute it in a ratio with purified water and put it into a bottle. Wash your dog as normal with a mild castile soap and then rub the apple cider vinegar into their fur. Ensure all areas of their body are covered, paying close attention to their belly and legs. Take care not to get the vinegar into their eyes as this will hurt them. Do not use this on open wounds or raw skin as it will burn and hurt your German Shepherd. Do not rinse this off, instead allow it to air dry on their skin and fur. This can also be applied topically throughout the day to alleviate itchy hotspots. It can also be used to clean out their ears and can be ingested for digestive issues. Apple cider vinegar is an anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial agent. You may want to consider incorporating olive oil into their diet. Olive oil is high in vitamins K and E, as well as antioxidants. Do this 2 to 3 times per week to help alleviate itchiness and improve the quality of their fur. Another good incorporation into their diet is plain yogurt. Take care to ensure that this is one that has no additives or sugar, as these will be bad for your dog. The yogurt will contain probiotic cultures that will help to maintain a healthy bacterial balance in their gut. It can help to prevent yeast infections and skin issues. For small dogs, add in a teaspoon of yogurt 2 to 3 times per week. For large dogs, feed them 2 teaspoons. Coconut oil is another great and easy home remedy. Apply it topically to dry skin as a moisturizer or give it orally to your dog as an immune booster. It is also really useful as a human moisturizer and is delicious to boot. We have all heard of oatmeal baths for chickenpox, but did you know that this can be done for dogs too? Grab some oatmeal and place it into a high-powered blender and blend until a powder has formed. Fill your bathtub with warm water and pour in the oatmeal powder. Allow this to combine for a few minutes and then bring your dog in. If possible, allow your dog to soak in this bath for 15 minutes. Performing this bath regularly will help to reduce the overall itchiness of your dog and make their life more comfortable. You can also make herbal tea soaks for your dog. These can be done with chamomile, calendula, and green teas. All of these teas have soothing properties and will help to reduce itchiness. This is particularly useful for dogs with red raw skin that cannot stop itching. To make this soak, fill your tub with warm water and throw in around 5 tea bags. Leave them to steep here for minutes and then take the bags out of the water. Bring your dog into the bath and allow them to soak in the tea for around 5 minutes. If the itching is localized to smaller regions, steep a couple of tea bags in a jug of warm water. Allow it to cool and then pour over the affected patches and allow the tea to air dry. For more natural home remedies, take a look at this video. Learn About German Shepherd Scratching From a Canine Veterinarian In this YouTube video , you can watch a canine veterinarian examining a German Shepherd dog patient who is struggling with ongoing itching and scratching issues. Hormone imbalances, illness Shedding German shepherds shed year-round. They have a thick double coat that helps regulate their body temperature. As the weather changes, about twice a year, they blow their coat, which results in lots of shedding. When they are blowing their coat, or shedding more than usual, they may scratch more often as they try to remove the excess fur. You can help de-shed them by brushing them often with an undercoat rake. It can also help to give them a bath in a conditioning, Ph balanced, de-shedding shampoo. If you lack time, consider a professional groomer a few times a year to help keep them well-groomed and less itchy. If your dog suddenly starts to shed more than usual or their fur is getting thin and dull, you may need to visit the vet. Illness, stress, dermatitis, and infections can all contribute to excess shedding that requires medical care. A few times a year is usually enough for most dogs. However, if they get wet, dirty, exposed to allergens, or have irritated skin, it can trigger lots of itching. To remove the itchy triggers from their skin and fur, its best to give them a bath using a rubber bath brush , which will help loosen fur and debris and gently massage their skin. When bathing, consider using a conditioning shampoo made with oatmeal and aloe to relieve the skin from irritants. Be sure to follow with a conditioner to protect their skin and coat and dry them off, which will also help remove any dead fur. Parasites Parasites such as fleas, mites, and ticks can all cause excessive itching as well as a problem in your home and yard. Dogs infested with parasites experience intense itching and some even have allergic reactions all over their body but especially at their belly, rear, hocks, elbows, and ear flaps. Dry Skin Dry, flakey, itchy skin can be caused for many reasons, including allergies, illness, infection, heat or air conditioning, being exposed to a household cleaner or soap, change in diet, or even needing more omega oil in the diet. Infections Itchy dogs are more prone to bacterial and fungal infections due to their constant scratching and licking. These infections also cause dogs to itch, creating a painful cycle of itchiness. Infections can usually be identified by intense itching, redness, sores, and may even have a foul odor. One of the keys to helping a dog recover from a skin infection is to stop them from scratching. This can usually be done with a combination of antibiotics or antifungals from your vet as well as anti-itch shampoos and sprays. Nutrition German shepherds tend to do best on a high-quality food that is easy to digest and nourishes the skin and coat. However, not all dogs thrive on the same food. There are many opinions about which dog food is best but what works great for one dog is sometimes a disaster for another. When feeding your dog, looking for a high-quality food for large breed dogs usually over 50 pounds that is AAFCO labeled complete and balanced for the life stage of your dog. Many foods created for sensitive dogs are free of corn, wheat, and soy yet still contain some grains, while others are grain free. Environmental Allergens Controlling the itching in dogs with environmental or seasonal allergies can be difficult. Depending on the severity of the problem, you may want to consider allergy testing and immunotherapy. Food Allergies Food allergies are far less common in dogs than environmental allergies. According to Tufts University, "Food allergies occur when an animal's immune system misidentifies a protein from a food as an invader rather than a food item and mounts an immune response. The end result of this response can be itchy skin or ear and skin infections in some pets, while it may cause vomiting or diarrhea in others. Which means every time your dog eats the offending food, it triggers an immune response and may worsen every time your dog eats that particular ingredient. Dogs are also far more likely to be allergic to the protein in a food chicken, beef or eggs than grains. In fact, allergies to rice or oats are rare and allergies to other grains, uncommon. So, if you keep rotating foods but are feeding the same protein or beans and legumes, that could be the problem. We hope these tips help your dog live itch free. Please feel free to share them with your friends with itchy dogs. And for good reason! They are characterized by not only their smarts, loyalty and courage, but also the thick fur coat that protects them. However, their coat makes them very susceptible to developing skin issues. If you are a parent of a German Shepherd, stay informed by being knowledgeable about why they get skin allergies and what you can do for them. They are allergic to fleas, especially to their saliva. When bitten, they will constantly itch and their skin will be inflamed. You will most likely see red spots almost immediately. Flea control would greatly help. A few of the things you can do is give your dog a refreshing bath in either a pool or a bathtub. This way fleas are washed away. Do make sure you fully submerge the dog in the water. Controlling fleas can not only prevent German Shepherd skin allergies but they can also avoid serious health problems such as tapeworms, anemia, dermatitis and bacterial infections. Learn how Wild Earth can help your dog live longer and visit the vet less. Steps for properly eliminating fleas from your German Shepherd: Bathe your dog using a hypoallergenic shampoo. Use a loofa for scrubbing his body. Make sure you cover his eyes with a dry cloth. Scrub vigorously to make sure it penetrates through his skin. Scrub for up to 5 minutes and make sure you include the genital area, tail and belly. These are the places where fleas tend to gather. Rinse using a hose a dry him off with a towel. Food Allergy Do you know that the number one cause of allergy in German Shepherds is the meat in dog food? When they develop this allergy, the skin is most likely the place where the inflammations would appear. If remain untreated, it could progress to infections or secondary bacterial infections that may be accompanied by alopecia or crusting. Food with real ingredients containing antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals are a good choice. Skin allergies may not be completely avoided but your German Shepherd will not likely develop skin irritations related to food if he is consuming the right diet. Environmental Allergy German Shepherds, as a dog breed, are really prone to skin allergies. Pollen-related allergies are one of the most common. This happens usually in the summer or in the fall. Many dog owners will use Benadryl for dogs to help alleviate pollen allergies that are common during the spring season for many dogs. Pollen allergies could lead to Atomic Dermatitis. This is usually a genetic condition caused by dust, trees or pollen. The dog may also experience ear infections when the allergy is not treated. Claritin for dogs is commonly used to help alleviate this type of allergy but it is recommended that you speak to your veterinarian prior to giving anything to your dog. Eye drops for dogs are common for helping to remove environmental allergies from the eyes and face of your dog. When you notice these, your dog may have an allergy. Symptoms also include flaky skin, hot spots, hair loss, dandruff, sores and dry skin. You need to watch out for skin allergies affecting either the ears or the eyes. Smelly ears or teary eyes could lead to painful infections when not treated. It would be best to consult a veterinarian right away for the proper prescription. Other Treatment Options For German Shepherds Most environment-related allergies are treated with over the counter treatments. Buying hypoallergenic or sulfate-free shampoo would be best for your German Shepherd. You can also choose a shampoo with either aloe vera or tree tea oil as the ingredients. These will provide a calming and soothing effect on their skin. Consult your veterinarian for antihistamine prescriptions for your dog. You may also visit a nutritionist so they could devise a good diet plan for your canine. Learn about our healthy protein food excellent for your German Shepherd. Managing Skin Problems with German Shepherds Fatty acids, zinc and antioxidants may reduce the symptoms. You may also regularly vacuum or wash the dog in hot water to remove the allergens. Keep an eye on them! We love our pets like family and hate to see them uncomfortable. Fortunately, by keeping an eye on their activity, watching how they react to their diet, bathing them regularly, and giving them a supplement if you think they need extra support, you can go a long way toward helping them live a more comfortable life! In this article:. Bees, hornets, and wasps Environmental Hygiene Most environmental allergies also known as inhalant allergies in German Shepherds are seasonal, which means your dog may only be prone at certain times of the year. However, the exceptions to this are molds, mildew, and house dust mite allergies, as these can occur yearly. Here are the common environmental allergies in German Shepherds due to their genetic tendency to become sensitized to: Tree pollens oak, ash, cedar, etc. Grass and weed pollens ragweed House dust mites Mold spores and mildew Other pet dander, such as cat or human skin These allergies also cause atopic dermatitis atopy , which causes red, itchy skin, rashes, hot spots, hair loss, and infections. Likewise, you should also look at their environment. Although dogs can have similar symptoms, they mainly suffer from itchy skin pruritus , especially around the face, paws, tummy, and armpits. Your German Shepherd will continually scratch, lick, or bite his skin, making it red, sore, and prone to infection. He may also try to rub himself on furniture or the floor to help relieve symptoms. Wrong Diet German Shepherds are predisposed to gastrointestinal problems. One example is Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency, which affects the normal digestion of food. They are also at risk of bloat GDV , a life-threatening condition. German Shepherds are also more prone to food allergies than other breeds, along with Labradors. Did you know that some GSDs have been lactose intolerant since their birth? As they begin experiencing digestive issues, you can confirm the level of lactose intolerance. There is nothing unusual about these foods other than they have been the most common ingredients in dog foods for years, so dogs have been repeatedly exposed to them. The skin condition can worsen and open the way for maggots to enter the body. In aged dogs, this can lower the appetite and also impact every organ of the body over time. Besides, some dog allergies, for example, seasonal pollen allergies, can temporarily go away. Some symptoms can also be a sign of a completely different condition. Here are a few questions to ask yourself if your GSD is itching too much due to environmental reasons: Did you recently change your floor cleaner? Is there another dog with a skin condition next to your GSD? Do you find red spots on the belly? In these cases, your German Shepherd might have a problem with the environment and needs immediate cleaning. When your German Shepherd passes watery stools, it can often be the case of a food allergy. Well, there are chances for your German Shepherd to itch so much due to multiple causes too. How to Treat An Itchy German Shepherd When a German Shepherd itches more than usual, it reddens the spot, and most importantly, it can lower the appetite and movement over time. The best way to treat an itchy German Shepherd is to identify the underlying cause and choose a suitable plan of action. GSDs with dermatitis need medicines and medicated baths, while those with environmental allergens need regular cleaning to eliminate allergens. Contrarily, those with food allergies need a change in diet. Here are some treatment options for your German Shepherd to control the itchiness: Medications. Antihistamines or corticosteroids anti-inflammatory can be prescribed to block the allergic reaction and help relieve symptoms. Immunosuppressive agents are also an option, but they must be used wisely due to possible side effects. Antibiotics can also be given for secondary bacterial infection. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements, such as fish oil, have effectively treated skin allergies as they can improve the response to steroids and antihistamines. Medicated shampoo or cream. These can help with severe itching and inflamed skin. Some therapeutic shampoos also contain anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal agents to help your dog. Frequent bathing can help to remove allergens from the fur. Holistic medicines or natural treatments. Some dog owners opt for alternative therapies such as essential oils like chamomile or aloe vera. Always consult a vet familiar with their use if you wish to try these. Immunotherapy also known as hyposensitization. A series of weekly injections allergy shots is given to your German Shepherd to introduce the allergen to desensitize him to it, for example, pollen. Hypoallergenic diet. This contains a novel protein, such as kangaroo, duck, or venison. Feeding new foods will prevent a continuation of the over-response. Prevention Tips Even though German Shepherds are susceptible to allergies, here are some prevention tips. Some of these tips can also be used if your dog already has his diagnosis to help to relieve his symptoms: Flea prevention treatment. Regularly vacuum carpets. To help prevent fleas and dust mites, vacuum carpets daily. You should do this at least weekly with hypoallergenic, non-toxic detergents. Regularly grooming. For ease, I use the FURminator de-shedding tool from Amazon, which does a great job as it gets right through to the undercoat and safely removes loose hair. Check out my article on how to reduce GSD shedding for some cool tips! Avoid pollen. Walk your German Shepherd before dawn and late afternoon to early evening, as this is when pollen is at its lowest. Wipe his paws and body after his walk to help remove pollen and other allergens. Feed a nutritious, high-quality diet. Some of the preservatives and additives in commercial dog food may also cause allergies or intolerance. To prevent this, always make sure you feed your German Shepherd high-quality food. Opt for the most expensive you can afford. Feed dog food with only one or two protein sources. This can help give you more choices later on, should your German Shepherd develop an allergy. Use an air purifier. Air purifiers help create a cleaner, healthier environment by capturing tiny particles such as dust, pollen, and mold spores. The latest model also comes with Wi-Fi enabled. Use a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers take moisture out of the air in your home. Drying out the air keeps allergy triggers to a minimum, subsequently relieving symptoms. In other instances, environmental and food allergies can also provoke a dog to itch regularly. Sometimes, a medicated bath does the job. Most dog breeds, including German Shepherds, scratch with an aim to perform a self-cleaning of the body and ears. If your German Shepherd is prone to direct heat or extreme cold, he may scratch quite frequently, and this is only a reaction to the environmental allergen temporary. You can see bald patches on various parts of the body. Vets might recommend medicines along with medicated baths and changes in diet. German Shepherds are prone to allergies. They are a high-risk breed predisposed to skin allergy known as canine atopic dermatitis CAD. The most common allergies are caused by fleas, food, environmental triggers such as pollen, dust mites, or mold , or contact with other irritants. Final Thoughts I can only imagine how frustrating it must be to have a German Shepherd itch so much all of a sudden. The situation worsens when you have multiple dogs at home. Although the German Shepherd breed is predisposed to different forms of allergies, they can still live a long, healthy, and happy life with the right treatment to control the symptoms. Related Posts You May Like:. When determining why your German Shepherd may be itchy, there are three primary reasons behind it. Fleas and lice commonly attach themselves to dogs, and can cause extreme discomfort and even self-mutilation through efforts to relieve the discomfort. The same applies if your dog has recently visited the veterinarian, though this is not as common as after returning home from a kennel. While your GSD may be allergic to one particular thing that he may have ingested, chances are that if there is an allergy present from food that it has to do with a change in his regular diet. Itching due to a food allergy is usually due to something that your dog will have been consuming for a while versus just on one occasion. Environmental allergies Environment allergies, also called Atopic dermatitis , present when your dog is allergic to some type of an environmental substance. This could be an airborne substance like pollen, but it could also be from dust mites, which are found in literally every household. Environmental allergies are most often present in dogs at least 6 months old, but they are more common in dogs that are at least 1 year old. These allergies can begin as seasonal in nature. They may begin in the spring and then taper off as fall approaches. Dust mites can also be a cause of itching. They can be found gathering in places where dead skin cells accumulate most often — places like furniture, bedding, carpeting, throw rugs, and stuffed animals. Dust mites can be found in just about every household. They are most prevalent from August to November when houses are closed up because of cool evenings and increasing humidity. However, be aware that, while seasonal, dust mites can still show up in the winter when heaters are stirring up dust. Go through the following steps and you will be able to isolate the most common cause for your GSD being itchy. Has your German Shepherd had the same food throughout his life? If this is the case, speak with your veterinarian. Have the seasons recently changed? YES — If the dog is middle-aged, then not likely a seasonal allergy. Seasonal allergies begin to show up after 6 months to 1 year of age. YES — If the dog is 6 months to 1 year old, then his itching is likely due to a seasonal allergy. NO — A seasonal allergy is probably not the concern here. They will show up the vast majority of the time when spring has just arrived. The exception here are dust mites. If you suspect that dust mites are the culprits, then talk with your veterinarian, as you will not be able to see them. Dust mites are only visible under a microscope, and even then they still look very small. This often causes excessive paw licking, recurring ear infections, hair loss and redness in the groin area. You will also notice seasonal allergies recurring each year, and worsening as the years pass. You will need to check your dog and look for signs of skin irritation. Not a small task, but a necessary one. Evaluate whether it is very dry and brittle, or if there is excess dander present. Look closely underneath his lips and examine the gums. Check to see if there are any types of ulcerations or lesions anywhere. Look closely for any redness that could indicate an ear infection. Pay close attention to the spaces between his pads and see if they feel particularly rough or if there are any unusually hard areas on the surface. Flea eggs magnified Flea eggs can also be difficult to see, so clean the comb out over a white piece of paper. The eggs are dark in color, so they will be easier to see on a white background. If you do not come across any fleas or flea eggs, then there is a good chance that you will come across a louse. Louse, singular for lice, are about the size of a small sesame seed. You will need to purchase a good quality flea shampoo to treat your dog effectively. Regardless of whether your dog has fleas or lice, a flea shampoo will be effective to treat the issue. Most flea shampoos contain either pyrethrins or organophosphates, which are both effective at getting rid of both lice and fleas. Pyrethrins are pesticides that are found naturally occurring in some types of chrysanthemum flowers, while organophosphates are chemical compounds made from phosphoric acid and alcohol. This will greatly cut down on the number of flea eggs or lice present and will make sure that the shampooing will be as effective as possible. Also make sure to put the flea-infested hair into a sealed bag and throw it away outside in the garbage. Do not dispose of the hair in an indoor garbage can in the event that some of the fleas or lice manage to escape. If some do manage to get out, you will just have another problem waiting to happen. You may also choose to use a topical insecticide. Two popular and effective topical insecticides are: Frontline Plus : This will kill all of the fleas on your dog within 12 hours. It kills live fleas as well as any contained in unhatched eggs. Advantage II : This product will also kill the fleas on your dog within 12 hours, and it will also stop fleas from biting almost immediately. A few popular brands are: Capstar : An effective oral pill, it begins to kill fleas within 30 minutes of dosing and will kill them before they lay eggs for a full month. However, some dogs love the taste — others, not so much. Also, treats will never work as quickly as a topical or oral medication, so these are not recommended if your GSD has on ongoing severe case of fleas. Thankfully, you are in a position to be able to find the root of the problem and do something about it. Most GSD itching issues can be effectively managed as long as you are proactive in paying attention to what may be causing the issue. By following a few simple steps, you will be able to put an end to it sooner than later. Fleas Fleas are a common culprit for itching dogs. They cause your German Shepherd a lot of discomforts. Previously flea-free dogs can pick up these external parasites from other dogs or outdoors. Some dogs have strong reactions to fleas. These flea allergies can cause your dog to scratch until they break the skin. When a dog scratches so much that he breaks the skin, it can cause a secondary infection. If your dog is bleeding or has caused open wounds, he will need to be looked at. Dirt and bacteria can get inside these wounds. A vet might even need to prescribe antibiotics. Lice Dogs can also get lice. Lice are small, external parasites that look a lot like dandruff to the naked eye, but up close, they are white, grubby, wingless insects. Environmental allergies Similar to humans, dogs can have allergic reactions to elements in their environments. The most common environmental allergies are airborne pollen and dust mites, both of which can be seasonal allergies. Dust mites are at their worst in the Autumn months. German Shepherds also can be allergic to certain items in your house such as carpet fibers, air fresheners, and shampoos. The condition they develop is called contact dermatitis, which is essentially a skin allergy. Fungus Ringworm is a common fungal problem in dogs. Ringworm is characterized by a circle of scaly, red skin; fur loss; and dandruff. This fungus can be passed from pet to human as well as from pet to pet. So, caution is advised if you suspect your dog may have ringworm. German Shepherds are not particularly predisposed to ringworm, however, dogs who have open wounds may be more prone to get the fungus. How do vets treat skin allergies in German Shepherds? Your veterinarian might recommend immunomodulatory medications. These are available either as a daily pill Apoquel or a Cytopoint injection given every weeks. Source: PetMed Apoquel can significantly reduce itching, and also decreases the associated inflammation, redness or swelling of the skin. Along with these, antibiotics or antifungal medicines are often required to treat the skin infections that result from allergies. Home remedies for German Shepherd itchy skin The first thing you will want to do is to determine the cause of the allergy. This will take some time. You can begin by eliminating any new substances that your GSD came into contact with before he started having symptoms. Check price on Amazon Use a Humidifier Winter months are notoriously bad for dry skin in both humans and dogs. Fireplaces and heaters sap moisture from the air and from the skin. Check price on Amazon Vacuum daily In addition to these measures, if your dog has a dust mite allergy, you will want to vacuum regularly and clean fabric surfaces often. Remove the carpet Your carpeting is something that may trigger allergies in dogs. A dog carpet allergy can be caused by the material itself or by a substance either on or in the carpet In extreme circumstances, you may even need to replace the carpet with tile or hardwood flooring. Common hypoallergenic dog food recommended by GSD owners include:.
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photos of bulldog puppies - Your puppy will be born and raised in our busy household. Our passion is to produce wonderful family pets with gentle loving temperaments that will bring a lifetime of happiness. We are extremely proud that the foundation of our lines have been trained as canine partner dogs and many of our puppies are therapy dogs and visit schools regularly. We have been breeding for a number of years and over these years we have seen many clubs come and go and we have been a member of some of them. We breed authentic Australian Labradoodles with lines that have been verified. We are content to follow our own path with strong ethics. We have an excellent reputation and we adopt the highest standards so you can be assured your puppy is an authentic Australian Labradoodle with bloodlines and health testing that has been verified. We follow a socialisation programme and temperament test all of our puppies before puppy pick day so we can help you make your choice. Temperament and health is always our first priority. We purchased our first Australian Labradoodle in and have been hooked ever since. Our dogs are our much loved family pets or live with their guardian families. Please contact us via email for more information. Access to our private puppy family area. A WhatsApp group for your litter. Both parents have been fully health tested with certificates available to view. Been bred in our family home by a 5 star council licensed breeder. Temperament tested and advice provided at puppy viewing. Call us today on Health Guaranteed All our puppies leave us with a full vet health check and a 2 year genetic health guarantee. Health Tested All our breeding Australian Labradoodles are fully health tested. We give our puppies the best start by following a tried and tested programme. Ethical Breeding We have the highest welfare standards which is why we hold a 5 star council licence. We believe every dog deserves a good life and this starts with the breeder. What our customers say.We travelled far to find her, and her knowledge, expertise and love for all things ALD is exceptional. After only a few days, Willow is already a huge part of our lives and so we are very glad that we chose Judy and RIpley's. Our dogs are very much our family pets. We are not a kennel, all our Australian Labradoodles have wonderful fulfilling lives either with us or our guardian families. Our dogs are for life and not just for breeding. The health and temperament of Australian Labradoodles is our number one priority, of course we breed exceptionally lovely puppies but our puppies health and temperament will always be our first priority. The Australian Labradoodle breed originated in Australia in the 's. The focus has always been on temperament, coat and quality through good health testing and planned matings. Our Australian Labradoodles are multigenerational, meaning both parents are Australian Labradoodles. Australian Labradoodles are very people focussed, they have a strong desire to please. Australian Labradoodles come in 3 sizes, miniature, medium and standard. Within my breeding programme I concentrate on miniature and mediums. Our Australian Labradoodles are extremely clever, sociable , comical and joyful. They are energetic when free and quiet in the home. We test their hips, elbows, eyes and genetics. When you purchase a Ripley's Australian Labradoodle you can be assured we have tested everything possible. We provide a 2 year health guarantee but we ask that our puppy families not give ingestible flea and worming treatments. Close Prices How much to pay for a puppy is always tricky. Variance in the prices between breeders is confusing to families - we understand this. What's Included in the price - vaccines, kennel cough, microchip transfer spay etc? Parental health screening - the more tests, the more expense incurred Reputation and bloodlines We have checklists and questions which we suggest you ask your chosen breeder. These can help you know firstly, what you are buying ,and secondly, what's included. Why Us and our Cobberdogs? Finding a healthy dog from a reputable breeder can be a challenge. If you've never had an Australian Cobberdog or any dog for that matter , it can be difficult to work out whether a breeder's prices are reasonable or not. Our prices are due to the amount of health screening and training we provide. As a registered Australian Cobberdog breeder, we have pure Cobberdog lines, and are known for our outstanding service. Our dogs are happy and healthy, with a gentle, playful temperament. We are confident our prices are a reflection of all of this. In comparison to similar breeders, we're about average. There are definitely options more and less expensive out there. If you'd like to find out more about our history, experience and the team, please check out our about us page. You can also follow us on Facebook: doodleDogs and Instagram: auscobberdogs. We love receiving updates we call them pupdates from families who've adopted from us. These are often posted on our social media, but we've also gathered some on our testimonials page for you! Useful Links. It was developed in the late s in Australia with the objective of producing a hypoallergenic guide dog for people who suffer from allergies. The Labradoodle has become one of the most beloved Poodle mixed breeds in the world because of his gentle disposition, intelligence, and cute appearance. Like most hybrid dogs , LabraDoodle comes in varying sizes, colours, and overall looks. This Labrador Poodle mixed breed has an extensive list of nicknames. History Doodle is believed to have been first bred in Australia in .It was done in the hopes of creating a highly trainable and hypoallergenic guide dog for people allergic to dogs. The first successful cross between a Labrador Retriever and a standard Poodle was done by a man named Wally Conron. It produced a dog named Sultan, which became a guide dog for his new owner who was in need of a guide dog in Hawaii for ten years. The Labradoodle's trainability and gentle nature made him a sought-after breed, both as a guide dog and a family companion. In the present-day, he has also thrived as an assistance and therapy dog. Labradoodle dogs are usually bred by crossing a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. However, multigenerational breeding has been done to create a workable and recognisable breed hopefully. Since the Labradoodle is still considered a hybrid, he is not recognised by the Kennel Club. Appearance and Grooming How big do Labradoodles get? Like most hybrid dogs with parents that differ in size and looks, predicting the overall appearance and adult size of the Labradoodle is quite difficult. They usually exude a graceful appearance with a soft coat, which can either be any of the following textures: The fleece coat, which tends to be long and straight or wavy. This type of coat is low-shedding and has somewhat an angora coat texture because of its silkiness. The wool coat, which is made up of tight curls, takes after the Poodle. This curly-coated type is virtually non-shedding and hypoallergenic. The hair coat, which is the least popular coat type and often seen in first-generation Labradoodles. It takes after the Labrador Retriever, and it sheds profusely all-year-round. Do Labradoodles shed? Labradoodle is a low to average shedder. How much grooming your dog will require depends on the length and texture of the coat. Labradoodles usually only requires brushing once or twice a week. However, some of them might need to be professionally trimmed especially those with fleece coats. Bathing can be done as needed. Aside from brushing, grooming also entails clipping the nails every six to eight weeks and brushing his teeth a minimum of three times a week to prevent halitosis or bad breath. Cleaning your Doodle's ears weekly should also be a part of his regular grooming routine to prevent ear infections. Temperament and Intelligence Do Labradoodles make good pets? The Labradoodle dog breed is a popular choice not only because of his endearing appearance but also his friendly and loving nature. Like his parent breeds, he makes a delightful companion and family pet for children of all ages. He is an excellent match for first-time dog owners too. Whether being first or multigeneration Doodle, he generally will be a good-natured and gentle family dog. The LabraDoodle gets along well with other pets. However, supervision is a must during child—dog or other pet—dog interactions. This will prevent accidents from happening due to rough playing. The Doodle dog is highly trainable because of his intelligent and people-pleasing characteristics. However, as a high-energy dog, his training should include plenty of physically and mentally stimulating activities to match his brainpower. Nutrition and Feeding For an adult Labradoodle, a typical serving is 1 to 2. However, you can always prepare your pet's food, but make sure that you pair it with supplements to avoid nutrient deficiencies. Omega fatty acids could be added to keep your Labradoodle's coat healthy. It is advised to always check with your vet first before putting your Doodle on a new diet or starting with a new supplement. Health and Exercise How long do Labradoodles live? Cross-breeds are often said to be healthier and tend to live longer than purebreds. The Labradoodle is a great proof for this claim as his average lifespan is 12 to 15 years. However, like most breeds, Doodle can be predisposed to certain health problems, which include: Progressive retinal atrophy PRA. Australian Labradoodles are dogs that have a very interesting history. They were first bred in the s by a member of the Australian Guide Dog Association who set out to produce a hypo-allergenic guide dog, for a blind woman who was allergic to dogs. They can be considered to be six in one, as six different breeds were used to create what I believe is the ultimate dog. They are gentle, smart, loving, playful and obedient. An extra bonus is that they have an allergy friendly coat and do not shed! Tootsie is a cuddly and very loving dog who adores children. She is very intelligent and has proved easy to train. Her gentle temperament means her puppies will be perfect for first time dog owners! She is an exceptionally pretty dog with a gorgeous thick and curly coat. Tootsie comes from my breeder friend from Poland, a wonderful lover of dogs who is respected and well known all across Europe. The dad of both sets of puppies is Miles, our amazing stud who comes from Spain. He is a wonderfully calm and gentle boy! He loves to play with other dogs, whether they are smaller, bigger, older or younger! Miles adores his family and enjoys learning new tricks as he is extremely obedient. He is a very pretty boy with a luxurious, thick brown coat. The Pups are now ready to go home! A deposit is required to reserve your puppy, please do get in touch for more details : - All of our dogs are extensively health checked, having passed all their hip, elbow and annual eye tests. As well as having extensive genetic DNA tests. We have done extensive remodelling to suit the needs of the little puppies as well as the mums! The puppies have an outdoor area built and designed exclusively for them and their needs. They are also potty trained and know basic commands. I will always be reachable for any questions! Please feel free to contact me or any of my other extremely satisfied customers who have welcomed one of my puppies into their homes. These organisations contain the most amazing group of breeders who only pick the best dogs to breed. Please check out my website which has links to all the popular social media!