poodle puppies toronto

January 24, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? What does it take to be considered ideal for a family dog? How do you know if the Golden Retriever is the right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Golden Retrievers! Bred in the highlands of Scotland by Lord Tweedmouth in the mid to late s, Goldens are a cross between a Yellow Retriever and an extinct dog breed, the Tweed Water Spaniel. Lord Tweedmouth wanted the ideal gundog to accompany him during fowl hunting and be able to withstand the rugged terrain and rainy conditions. Aside from being able to retrieve fowl, Lord Tweedmouth wanted an even-tempered dog to have at home when not hunting. And so, the Golden Retriever was born. Later in the s, they soon became a popular breed amongst American families when President Gerald Ford had a Golden named Liberty as his family dog. Golden Retrievers, like their name states, are golden! Their luxurious coats come in a variety of light to dark shades, ranging from light like the white Golden Retriever or English Cream to dark golden colors, even close to chocolate. Their coats feature feathering down their backs, chest, belly, hindquarters, and tails. Goldens have soft expressions combined with floppy expressive ears that give them a puppy-like appearance even as adults. Another thing to note of the Golden Retriever is that those fluffy coats are actually what are known as double coats. A strong water repellant coat on top coupled with a dense undercoat to regulate their body heat. This all means these pups can be heavy shedders! What are Golden Retrievers Personalities like? There is something to be said about being named a perfect family dog. The Golden Retriever breed is loyal, affectionate, playful, and gentle. If brought into a home with children, your Golden Retriever puppy will be a great addition for help introducing your new Golden Retriever pup to your kids and how to play together, check out our blog! But being a great family dog doesn't mean they are easy! Goldens have lots of energy which can come out in more jumping and being more mouthy, especially as puppies. Check our training tips for raising a well-mannered Golden at the end of this blog! Two to three daily walks are a must, and throw in fun activities like hiking or going for a swim, your pup will stay golden! Golden Retrievers are eager to please type of breed. They generally have happy go lucky demeanors which lends itself to affection and friendliness, including toward strangers. If you wanted a pup that could eventually become a service dog, a Golden Retriever is a great choice and make for excellent working pups! As a high-energy breed, Golden Retrievers do best in a home that will provide them ample access to romp around. Homes with fenced in yards or access to a park or field on a daily basis where they can run and fetch to their hearts content are the best environment for Goldens! These pups, with consistent early socialization, can adapt and thrive to living in a home with other dogs, or pets, and children! They love to play and make great playmates. That being said, their social nature can lead to dependencies on their owners and family. Golden Retrievers may develop separation anxiety if left alone and not properly trained from an early age. Golden Retrievers may also contract heart disease called subvalvular aortic stenosis SAS that with early diagnosis and treatment can allow for a regular life-span. When you are looking to add a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure you are working with a reputable breeder that cares for the health quality of the dogs they breed. Take advantage of that natural drive and eagerness to please by setting foundations at home. Start your puppy a regular daily puppy schedule to create structured routines in the home. Include consistent feeding, nap, play and obedience training times throughout the day to help your Golden pup learn what to expect and build confidence at home. During their puppy training focus on their obedience commands to help your puppy learn to look to you for guidance, build their communication with you, and solidify a trusting relationship! Since Golden Retrievers love to work, positive reinforcement and food rewards will be valuable motivators to get your puppy focused and listening. In-person and online puppy training programs will walk you through how to teach the commands, exercises to help your puppy learn them, and troubleshoot when your puppy needs it! Teach Your Golden Retriever How to Greet New People and Dogs While their open friendly disposition will help your puppy make new friends where ever they go, make sure to teach your puppy the right way to do so! Some overly energetic and friendly pups can get excitable around new people and dogs. That can result in some unwanted whining, lunging, and jumping. When done correctly, socialization 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 those common over-excited behaviors when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer or join an online puppy training school to help set you up for the best success! Do Calming Obedience Exercises With all their high-energy and high-drive, teaching your Golden how to be calm in everyday scenarios will help tame that wild side! Great calming exercises include having your puppy learn to wait for their food bowl and in thresholds each time you enter or leave a space. This also extends to activities like fetch. Goldens are a natal for this! This can be done simply by having your pup drop the toy when they return and pausing for a few moments giving them a chance to settle before throwing it again for them to retrieve. Teach Them to Walk Nicely on Leash Many high-energy pups have a tendency to lunge toward exciting new things! Couple that with a social nature, and you may encounter that your Golden Retriever puppy will start to pull on leash. Focus on teaching them proper leash manners including how to walk in Heel position and how to pass other people and pups without lunging, jumping and excited whining, barking or nipping at them! That can greatly help possible bad encounters with strangers and other dogs while teaching them great habits! Did you recently bring home a Golden Retriever 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! Next up is another thing to do before you bring your puppy home… How To Puppy Proof Your House When puppy-proofing your house, think like a puppy. Crawl around on the floor and take note of what you see. Puppies will chew nearly anything, so make sure that there are no valuables down at puppy-height, or things that could be poisonous to them or be a choking hazard. Make sure there are no open cabinets or pantries where your puppy could get into food. Be careful of small trash cans that could hold some smelly trash that would be enticing to a puppy. And finally, next are a few other random tasks to do before you bring home your new puppy. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Not exactly. Find a vet. Find the closest emergency animal hospital. This is not something you want to wait until you need it before looking it up and making a plan. Find a list of local poisonous plants and animals. Talk to your vet and do some research so that you know which plants and animals to avoid. Find a puppy kindergarten class. This will help with training, socialization, and general learning how to be a puppy parent. Check your yard or house for any escape routes. This next section will cover everything from what to expect with a puppy, what to do the first 24 hours of bringing them home, how to train them, and more. A week after bringing Oliver home, it was very obvious to me why she asked me that. Puppies are hard work! Their little bladders can only hold it for a few hours, so this is expected. Chewing Puppies will try to chew any and everything. Like every thirty minutes often. Now, for the most important expectation of them all… You will miss puppyhood! Yes, you will miss the sleepless nights and puppy bites. So make sure to take lots of videos and pictures. How would you like to be treated in this situation? Here are some tips to help your puppy get comfortable in their new home. Let your puppy make decisions When you get to your house, set them at your open front door and let them choose to walk inside. Let them explore their new home on their own terms. Letting them make decisions can give them a sense of confidence, hope, and control, and ease into their new home. Limit visitors Now is the time to build the bond with your puppy and let them get to know you, not overstimulate them with a lot of people. Limit their access to your home Getting used to a new home with two rooms will be a lot easier than getting used to a new home with five rooms. Only let your puppy have access to a few rooms so that they get acclimated to their new area quicker, then as they get more comfortable you can allow them to explore new areas of the house. You can use baby gates to restrict access to sections of the house. Bonus benefit: this will also decrease the chances that they leave you a present in the guest room. In general, just keep things low key when you bring them home and let them get used to their surroundings. Training Your Golden Retriever Puppy Training your golden retriever puppy is one of the best things you can do both for them and with them. They have short attention spans and like to have fun, so short training sessions and training games work best. A lot of people think that training is just obedience training, like sit and stay , but it also includes life skills like crate training , potty training , how to not jump on people or bite them, and how to not pull on the leash. Socialization Socialization is something that is not talked about as much as it should be. It can help mitigate fear and aggression and help them become confident, well-adjusted adult dogs. You can socialize your puppy with other dogs by setting up play dates with gentle dogs that you know are vaccinated and by going to puppy kindergarten. Dog to other living beings includes humans, cats, and other animals. You can socialize them with other people by taking them to a pet-friendly store like home depot, and you can socialize them to other animals by taking a walk by the neighborhood cat with lots of distance between them, so neither animal gets overwhelmed. Dog to stuff is the broadest category, but no less important. When Oliver was very young we were on a walk and a FedEx truck drove by. He had never heard a big truck like that and was terrified. So make sure that your puppy is comfortable with trucks, cars, the garage door, buses, umbrellas, and whatever other objects they may encounter. For instance, if you live in Chicago, get them used to trains, buses and crowded streets. Every day, separate out five special treats for your puppy. For example, you might let your neighbor give your puppy a treat, or maybe you take your puppy to a bus stop and when the bus goes by you give them a treat, or maybe you introduce them to a cow and give them a treat. The treat helps them have a positive experience with these new things and people, plus it helps you easily remember to expose them to lots of these new things. Do this for the first four weeks of their life and before you know it, your puppy will have been exposed to new dogs, people, things, or environments, and will be well on their well to becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. Puppy Raising Mistakes Below are some mistakes that new puppy owners make that could make it harder to train and raise their puppy into a happy, confident adult. Not remembering how young they are Puppies are like little toddlers. Waiting to train your puppy until they have a problem Training your puppy before they have any behavior problems will make life so much easier for you. Forcing things too quickly Things like crate training and potty training take time. Setbacks hurt more than stretching their limits will help, so be patient and take things slowly. Conclusion Golden retriever puppies might just be the best living beings on the planet. However, they are a lot of work and can be quite naughty sometimes. Have any questions about golden retriever puppies? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is thinking about getting a golden retriever puppy, please share this with them. Related articles:. Golden Retrievers were first bred in the early s in Scotland as hunting dogs. Although they are still used for hunting, Goldens also excel at many other activities, including search and rescue jobs and guide work. They require ample exercise—swimming in particular is a great outlet for their endless energy, and most Goldens love it! Their beautiful coats require brushing and in some climates a summer trim may be in order. Goldens are intelligent, understanding, and eager to please their families. The Golden Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Golden. By knowing about health concerns specific to Golden Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Golden Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Golden Retrievers. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Golden looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your Golden is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections Golden Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Golden Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Golden is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Golden Retrievers Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your Golden will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Golden Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Golden Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Mast cell tumors are a particularly nasty type of skin cancer found more often in Golden Retrievers than other breeds. The sooner these tumors are surgically removed, the better. Unfortunately, mast cell tumors often look very similar to other kinds of skin lumps and lesions, many of which are not harmful. Therefore, all suspicious lumps should be tested and surgically removed as soon as possible. Many cancers are cured by surgical removal , so early detection is critical. Bloat Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as GDV or bloat, usually occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. This means your Golden is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Golden Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Goldens. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. Glaucoma, an eye condition that affects Golden Retrievers and people too, is an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated. Symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea the clear front part of the eye , and redness in the whites of the eyes. Pain is rarely noticed by pet owners though it is frequently there and can be severe. People who have certain types of glaucoma often report it feels like being stabbed in the eye with an ice pick! Glaucoma is a medical emergency. Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside of the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs, and your Golden is more likely than other dogs to develop this painful condition. If untreated, these abnormal hairs can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain. Several treatment options are available, and the prognosis is good once the hairs have been permanently removed. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Allergies, swimming, overgrowth of hair in the ear canals, and accumulation of earwax can all predispose your dog to ear infections, which are painful and annoying. Goldens are very often afflicted by allergies, which can cause itching and inflammation in the ears and elsewhere. The earlier we diagnose and treat these ailments, the less discomfort and pain your pet will suffer. Be sure to call us if you notice him scratching or shaking his head, a foul odor from the ears, or if his ears seem painful to the touch. By monitoring for ear infections and treating them early, we also reduce the likelihood of eardrum damage that can lead to deafness. Most ear infections tend to recur until we work together to control the underlying cause. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and Golden Retrievers are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. Note the length of the seizure, and call us at or call an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some Golden Retrievers inherit a heart condition known as aortic stenosis. This disease causes a partial obstruction to the blood flow leaving the heart, which means the heart must work harder to pump enough blood to the body. If the condition is severe, your dog may faint or seem to run out of energy during exercise. He may also have difficulty breathing, cough frequently, or have stunted growth. Golden Retrievers are also especially prone to a life-threatening heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, in which the heart becomes so large, thin, and weak that it can no longer effectively pump blood to the body. As this problem advances, your pet may act weak or tired, faint or collapse, breathe in a labored way, or cough. If indicated, treatment includes medication and dietary supplementation. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Goldens have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Bleeding Disorders Your Golden Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test as we may not otherwise know whether your pet has hemophilia until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Signs can include dry skin and coat, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin diseases, weight gain, fearfulness, aggression, and other behavioral changes. Treatment is usually as simple as replacement hormones given in the form of a pill. Taking Care of Your Golden Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Golden live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. Golden Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She excels at dog sports like flyball, agility, dock diving, and obedience events. She has a passion for water, and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Golden Retriever needs help. As long as they are socialised well as a puppy, Golden Retrievers can happily fit into family life. They are gentle but need to be treated with respect by all members of the family, including young children, as like any dog their patience will eventually run out. Common health problems in Golden Retrievers Like any purebred dog, Golden Retrievers may encounter some breed-related health problems throughout their lives. Often, Breed Clubs will also be able to provide advice on what tests your breed may need and where to get these done. Make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by these upsetting conditions. For Golden Retrievers, this is because they can have short legs in proportion to their body and a tendency to become overweight. Eye problems — screening tests are available and dogs should be screened on a yearly basis, especially if intended for breeding. Multifocal retinal dysplasia - abnormal development and growth of the back of the eye retina which can lead to blindness. Generalised progressive retinal atrophy GPRA — slowly leads to progressive blindness over months or years. Retinal pigment epithelial dystrophy RPED, or central progressive retinal atrophy — a genetic problem which causes issues in the back of the eye retina and loss of vision. Glaucoma — high pressure within the eye causing pain and loss of vision. Ichthyosis — a skin disease that causes thickening of the footpads and makes other areas of skin rough and covered with thick, greasy flakes that stick to the hair. Caring for your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are usually real big softies and can make a great addition to a home. How much noise they make will be down to the individual dog. Training and socialisation Golden Retrievers thrive off training and are very intelligent dogs. They love nothing more than to be given tasks to do to keep them occupied and have fairly good problem-solving skills — for a dog! As long as your Retriever is properly socialised from a young age , they should be confident around new people and situations. Retrievers also like their chill out time but will be more than happy to show you plenty of affection on their own terms. Exercise Golden Retrievers are very active dogs and need plenty of opportunities to exercise , play and get rid of excess energy. Your Golden Retriever will need a minimum of two hours of good exercise per day. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together. Because they are intelligent dogs, Golden Retrievers can get bored easily so make sure you keep their brains active as well as their bodies. As their name suggests, retrieving is what they were bred for, so nearly all Golden Retrievers love a good game of fetch! Grooming Golden Retrievers have medium to long coats and generally do shed a lot. They are not a dog to take on if you hate hoovering! Ideally, they should be brushed or combed three times a week at a minimum. Where necessary you can trim their coat with the right tools, but seek advice from a professional dog groomer or vet first. You may also find that your Retriever loves water including any and all muddy puddles and swimming. Make sure they stay safe around the water and if they get mucky, use a dog safe shampoo. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate Golden Retrievers and children If you have a young family then Golden Retrievers can be fantastic with children. If socialised properly from a young age, Retrievers can be quite calm and tolerant. Always supervise children and vulnerable adults with your Golden Retriever and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Golden Retrievers and other pets Well-socialised Golden Retrievers are very easy-going, which usually means they can be great around other dogs and pets, too. Any introductions should be done carefully and following the right advice for your other pet, too. Always supervise your dog with other pets, even if they have known them for a long time. Obesity can cause other health problems for your Golden Retriever, so keeping them in shape is extra important. Make sure to monitor their weight and keep an eye out for any sneaky snacking. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. Use healthy treats in moderation instead. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap before exercising and after eating. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. If you want to buy a pedigree puppy, we recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they have to do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. PDSA Pet Insurance Fun facts As they were bred to fetch game, they have a naturally gentle grip, called a 'soft mouth', so they don't damage the birds they carry back in their mouths. Golden Retrievers have an amazing sense of smell and are often used as search and rescue dogs in other parts of the world. They absolutely love water well, most of them do. Most Retrievers will take any opportunity to have a swim. Luckily, their coats are thick to keep out water and keep them warm. Golden Retrievers make really good assistance dogs and are often a top choice for training to be Guide Dogs for the Blind. Make sure you have the knowledge and dedication to give to these sweet natured dogs to keep them happy and the time and space to exercise them. While they make great family pets, make sure you are absolutely ready to take on the commitment of getting a dog first. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Golden Retriever. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in Golden Retrievers are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy a Golden Retriever puppy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if the Golden Retriever is the right pet for you? Read the full disclosure here. They rely on you for everything and their health and well-being is well and truly in your hands. In order for your Golden to live as long and as healthy and fit a life as possible, you need to first educate yourself on how to care for them properly and build this knowledge into actions and routines. A balanced and nutritious diet, regular exercise , grooming and regular veterinary health checks are all essential parts of maintaining good health and quality of life. All of these are under your control. By taking steps to do the best for your Goldens health and monitoring their well-being regularly, you can prevent illnesses happening, avoiding pain and discomfort for your Golden and vets bills and heartache for you. At first, being a caring and responsible owner can seem a daunting and herculean task, but breaking it down into little manageable routines really does make it easy. Health Care Routines For Your Golden Retriever You should keep a diary and set up daily, weekly, quarterly and yearly routines to make sure every need is met and your Golden is well looked after. Example routines would be: Daily: Provision of nutritious food and clean water, regular and sufficient exercise, general health check via bodily inspections. Weekly: Inspection of ears, eyes and oral health and hygiene. Comprehensive grooming and nail care. Quarterly: Bath your Golden. In the past, any more often than this was bad for their coat quality and skin. Scheduled visits to a veterinarian and canine dentist, perhaps alternating every 3 months so two visits to each per year. Yearly: Vaccination top-ups. Following is a brief discussion of areas you need to pay attention to in order to care for your Golden well. Particularly during their puppy years they can get themselves into all sorts of trouble around your home and garden so you have to undertake a certain amount of puppy-proofing your home : Fence off swimming pools or ponds in your yard as they will get in there but being so small they may not be able to swim well and could find it impossible to get out unaided. Research the plants and flowers you have in your home and garden as there are in excess of one hundred plants known to be toxic to dogs and Goldens love a good chew! Remove or make safe any sharp items in your home that your Golden may play with, rub against or walk over in their playing. Hide away any electrical cables because a dogs sharp teeth and electricity are a particularly dangerous combination. Goldens can learn to open simple storage units and household chemicals therein are extremely dangerous to your dog. For now, just pretend you are an inquisitive dog, tour your home and garden and imagine just how they could get themselves into trouble in any of the areas they have access to. Then take steps to make those areas safe. Diet, Nutrition and Water Intake Dogs in the wild would hunt and scavenge, eating a wide variety of different foods, taking care of their own diet and ensuring they get all the nutrients they need. Modern dogs no longer hunt and scavenge and instead rely on their owners to provide them everything they need. You need to research, find and provide a good scientifically formulated diet to match their very particular nutritional requirements. You should note that a puppy has different nutritional requirements to an active adult dog, that is again different to a very senior dog who may have somewhat slowed down. There are dog foods balanced to meet a dogs different needs for each stage of their lives and activity levels. One thing you really need to watch out for with Golden Retrievers is over-feeding. And a Golden will never say no, they just love to eat! So please be mindful of their food intake and monitor their weight. No dog should be overweight. It can lead to joint problems, which leads to mobility problems, as well as diseases of their internal organs which can really shorten their lives. As well as good food, your Golden needs access to a good, clean and fresh supply of water every day. Dehydration is a real problem, as is over-hydrating in some dogs. And any drastic changes in their intake usually signifies an underlying health problem and you should seek the advice of your vet. Exercise Golden Retrievers are a sporting breed, bred for working and hence considered a high energy breed. To keep them fit and healthy and to occupy their minds you will need to provide them with lots of opportunity for structured exercise. Notice I said structured exercise! This means you cannot simply let them out into your yard and hope they take care of exercise themselves. They will walk around a bit and mostly just spend their time begging to be let back in with you. You have to plan structured exercise such as running, playing fetch or swimming. You have to take them out for a minimum of 45 minutes of exercise per day on top of their normal walks, and preferably with a good 2 hour bout of longer exercise at least once per week. The five minute rule is that a puppy needs no more than 5 minutes structured exercise per day for every month they have been alive. So a 4 month old puppy needs just 20 minutes, a 5 month old puppy 25 minutes etc. So take it easy with a puppy. Training Just how important training is for your Goldens quality of life cannot be overstated. A dog that listens to and responds to just a few well-trained commands can be kept infinitely safer than an untrained dog. So you should provide your Golden with a decent firm yet soft bed and a nice comfortable lining for their crate if you use one. If you have a yard and your Golden will be expected to spend any length of time outside you should provide a form of shelter so they can keep off the cold wet floor in winter and get out of the sun in summer. There are many options for suitable kennels and many of them are reasonably priced. If you fail to keep up a regular schedule of brushing, their coats very quickly become knotted and then matted and these are all but impossible to remove without the help of a pair of scissors. Regular brushing also helps to keep your Goldens coat clean and removes dead hair. When it comes to bathing, Golden Retrievers have a double coat and natural oils that help waterproof them so bathing too often is actually bad for their coats…at least it always used to be. Just be sure if you do wish to bathe them often that you research the shampoo used and pick one suited to regular bathing for Goldens. Human shampoo will never do as it will strip their oils and is too acidic for their skin and will irritate them. And cheap dog shampoos will strip the oils too. You kinda get what you pay for. To keep their coat healthy and prevent irritation you need to remove all the soap. Note: Click here for a selection of the best dog brushes suitable for your golden Nail Care Depending on how often your golden walks on hard abrasive surfaces, they will probably need their nails trimmed every 10 or 12 weeks. But if your golden is constantly walking pavements and roads, they may never need a trim due to concrete and tarmacs abrasive, nail-file like effect. Anyway, you should regularly check your dogs paws. This can be very uncomfortable for your dog and if it gets out of control even painful. You can quite easily trim your dogs nails at home , or you can take them to the vet where they will do the procedure for you. If you do wish to do it at home, I recommend taking your dog to the vet first and asking for advice on how to do it, being shown and learning from the pros rather than risking it alone from a book. Better safe than sorry! Look inside to make sure they are a healthy looking color, not bright red and inflamed. Also check for lots of small little grainy looking brown dots. These are the droppings of ear mites and a sign of a parasitic infection which should be treated ASAP. Dental Care Dental hygiene is an often overlooked area of dog care by many people but is very important. Much like us, dogs can suffer with tooth decay, cracked teeth, gum disease and a build up of plaque and tartar. Not only does this detract from the overall good looks of your dog, it can be quiet uncomfortable, sometimes painful and can lead to more severe problems if left untreated. So you should regularly check their teeth and gums yourself, make use of available chews that help to clean their teeth and take your dog to a canine dentist every 6 to 12 months. Try to treat your dogs teeth as good as you would treat your own. Parasitic problems Fleas, ticks and other parasites can be a real problem for dogs, leading to many problems ranging from mild skin irritation, to extreme sores and infections, and in the most extreme cases dramatic weight loss, tape worms and Lyme disease. So you should regularly check for parasites in your Golden which is very easy to do if you are sticking to a regular schedule of brushing their coats. Simply spend an extra minute to inspect closer to their skin looking for ticks, fleas or small dots droppings in their fur which would indicate the presence of parasites. Treatment for fleas and ticks can be administered at home as there are many treatments for this available over the counter. Try to make it every 6 months, but once per year as a minimum. This will allow your vet to become familiar with your dog which makes spotting changes easier for them. And it gives them a chance to spot problems early that you without an untrained eye may not pick up on. As always, prevention is better than cure and if there is ever a problem then catching it as early as possible is vital for more effective treatment and minimal pain and discomfort for your pet. Regular visits to the vet allow this early discovery. You will also need to see your vet to have your puppy vaccinated. There are many diseases, some fatal, that can be prevented easily with a course of vaccinations. Distemper, parvovirus and hepatitis as well as the infamous rabies can all be kept at bay with vaccines. A puppy will require shots starting at 6 weeks with a course of various shots taking them up to 18 weeks or so. The rabies shot is administered at about 6 months of age and after this your Golden will require just a yearly top up to maintain protection. Highly Recommended Training Course For a detailed program to follow in the form of a video library, including a step-by-step roadmap for raising a puppy from 8 weeks old all the way to a confident, well-trained and happy adult dog, you could do a lot worse than checking out The Online Dog Trainer. This program contains over follow along videos of an NZ SPCA endorsed professional dog trainer, covering all aspects of dog training, solving behavior problems in real life scenarios, explaining the theory, giving practical advice and more. You can see him getting real results in real-life consultations with his clients, so if you ever have a behavior problem you need to solve, you can follow along for almost guaranteed results. Of course, we are developing a fantastic training resource here at TotallyGoldens. Click here to learn more at TheOnlineDogTrainer. Caring For Your Golden Retriever Final Thoughts Regular grooming will keep your Golden retriever not only looking at their absolute best, but also with your help and intervention it keeps them healthy and disease free too. You May Also Like. My husband and I are bringing home our first puppy in September a goldendoodle and this was super helpful! Emily June 29, , am Thank you so much for this, Jen! I look forward to the post on favorite dog toys! We just got a puppy and, while its only been a week, we are definitely having some issues getting puppy to embrace his crate. He is doing really well with potty training, and has yet to have an accident in his crate, but soon after he enters his crate the howling begins. This way he associates it with a positive place. Also, leave treats in there. Some dogs do better with their crates covered so like drape a blanket over the sides so it feels more like a cave. You might also try placing a t-shirt or something that smells like you in there. Also, leave the door open all the time and praise him if he goes in on his own. Good luck! OH, what a difference! Long after they no longer needed their crates, we kept them and always left the door opened. They would go into them when they were tired, knowing they were in a safe place; their place. Friends always said to us that they would have a dog if it behaved like our dogs. Be consistent. Fun for all of you. I can definitely see how teaching while a puppy can make a huge difference. Looking forward to your next dog related posts :. Reply Link Megan June 29, , pm Ahh thank you for this post! My husband and I are looking into getting a pug puppy soon and these tips are so helpful. Looking forward to reading more posts on this, especially the crate training. Love the tips, we are still trying to stay the course with the UD group classes! Golden are the best! It has been such an eye-opening month with our new puppy. Our other dog is 8 so everything feels brand new. I actually wrote about it in my post for tomorrow, but a puppy is like a baby. My boyfriend and I are getting a golden pup in the fall and while I grew up with the breed I have never trained a pup on my own. We made the choice to get a puppy mostly to instil good habits and behaviour long term. So long story short, I would never put a puppy or young dog or any age in airplane cargo! Reply Link Megan June 30, , pm Good tips! Socializing him right away and crate training him were so key to having an awesome, well-adjusted dog! Reply Link Josi August 20, , pm Hello! Just wondering where you got your goldens? This really helped me figure out what to do when she gets here. Jen May 3, , pm YAY! Our 3rd Golden in about 33 years and know he has some big paws to fill Taegan was wonderful for 14 years. We are so excited!! I have a new English Cream Golden. I feel like I need to work for his affection. Great otherwise! Not super energetic. Bursts of energy followed up by lots of naps but never really interested in walks. First timer here. Your pup could really benefit from basic positive obedience! I would recommend seeking out an experienced trainer in your area to help you as your pup grows! Having a puppy in the home can be fantastic, but you also need to make sure that you can offer it the best as well. She has been really easy to house break. We are excited to bring her home. Thank you for the helpful tips. That is a good idea to make sure that we are committed to doing the work to train this dog. We do really want him to be well trained. Thanks for the tips! Thank you so much for this super informative post! Reply Link Jen January 22, , pm I always made sure she went before we got to the gym and walked her frequently. Meghan January 29, , am Thank you so much for the reply!! We kept each of our puppies on a leash in the house, never out of our sight except when they were in the crate for 4 months before we gradually gave them independence. We always messed with them and held them. They had accidents as you would expect until fully house trained at about 4 months, but never any destructive or aggressive behavior. We gave them plenty of tough chew toys. Also training classes. They were never nervous or skittish. They love to lay on us and never have had any trouble with grooming, food guarding, loud noises, children or other animals. Goldens are great dogs but like any dog, they can only know what you teach them. Great article!! Kathrinne May 5, , am Hi Jen, how old are your puppies when you let them go out? Jen May 5, , am What do you mean? Reply Link Carly September 8, , pm Thank you so much for your article! What would your input be? Do you think they would focus on each other more than their humans? Would 2 puppies be so much more difficult than 1? Any advice is greatly appreciated!! Love the name Zoey!! Any tips to Prevent that?? Reply Link Christine November 1, , am About to get golden 3. Learning all over about everything. Reply Link Jen November 1, , pm It is like starting over again but you will figure it out! Every pup is different but be patient and consistent! This is my first large dog breed so a little nervous. I read your post and you give wonderful tips that I will follow. Please let me know if it is safe to put a flea collar on the puppy. Thank you. Reply Link Jen January 29, , pm I would consult with your vet to see what they recommend for flea prevention and treatment. Also, about the scratching. It could be due to something else like an allergen outside. I have not had a dog in 3 years because I lost my last one in a painful way for me and I am afraid to get another one. I am now ready to get one and this page has helped me prepare for my new puppy. I am a 74 yr old male in pretty good shape no health issues, and retired so I should be around a while to look after a dog. My wife passed about four months ago so I guess I am looking to fill a void. I live in a single family home and have plenty of time to spare. Thanks Reply Link marion duffield April 14, , am I am picking my pup up in 2 weeks! This is the best AND most realistic article I have read about training…. My pup Tank will be 4 months when we get him. He is absolutely adorable. Have only seen photos. He lives with his breeder in Missouri and we live in Canada…. I am so excited for you!!!! Puppies are intense but so much fun. And wow, that is going to be an adventure! Reply Link Theresa April 30, , am Do you have suggestions about golden retriever puppy biting? We got ours at 7 weeks. She is now .How do we stop her from snapping and biting? She is smart and loving. The biting has been rough though. Can you help? But I love dogs soooo much. This info is everything to me. I love this post Soo much. Thanks a ton. You left puppy in car? Or what? Reply Link Madeline October 31, , pm I am picking up my 7 week old golden in 2 days! I am so excited! How did you go out taking him places before he had his full shots? I want to socialize him, and of course potty train him immediately, but obviously there are risks. Whats your take on this? So the whole crate training thing is not going so well. She hates it. Emily Camalo April 2, , pm Hi! Really appreciate you sharing all of this advice! It was super valuable. Reply Link Julie April 11, , am Loved your comments. I have a 9 week double doodle. I have crate trained since day 1 and she has been really good, day 1 upset for a couple of minutes. Day 2 no problem at all. Now just the occasional cry when I leave her but that is over with in a very short space of time. I also leave a low radio on for her. She uses the garden most of the time for toileting, but occasionally she will come into the house and do another wee. The problem I have at the moment is trying to stop her biting. I have tried the gentle command which she listens to some of the time. And I have tried standing and turning my back on her so she realises I am not playing when she bites, but she will then go for trousers or feet, which I try my best to ignore, or she will just go off and do something else like chew a mat or something which is a no no. Any ideas? Regards Reply Link Stephanie January 25, , am Really great info, thank you for your article. Our puppy arrives in 5 days and we have been preparing for months. Your advice is. Very helpful. Blessings to you. If you also have brought a newborn golden retriever puppy to your home, you need to be extra careful in handling him. It is significant to note that newborn golden retrievers should not be handled like human babies. In this article, I will suggest you 10 tips that will definitely help you to take care of a newborn golden retriever effectively. Before owning golden retriever, it is necessary to know about his temperament— Know everything about golden retriever temperament Ideally, it is better to allow the mother of golden retriever puppy to take its care and responsibility. The puppy must be allowed to stay with his mother and the litter for the first few days. The puppy owner must take care of the puppy as well as its mother and ensure that they are totally comfortable and at ease. Mother as well as the puppy must be fed properly and their nutritional demands must be met properly. A newborn golden retriever puppy may have a lot of needs and its mother can take better care of its growing needs. Since, initially, the puppy is non-explorative, it requires more attention as far its safety is concerned. Mother as well as the dog owner must take care of the highly vulnerable puppy. Proper diet and clean water must be provided to the mother, especially if she is nursing her baby. It is important to ensure that high quality ingredients are available in the food being provided to the mother and the kid so that their nutritional requirements are met in the most effective manner. I have listed some good commercial foods that are must have for the mother of new born puppy:.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. A diet that places a high emphasis on a protein-rich recipe, duck, salmon, and venison are the trifecta of nutrient perfection that form the basis of this diet. Glucosamine and chondroitin are prominently featured in this powerhouse food formulation to assist with optimal joint functionality. Pros: Three lean and flavourful meats, duck, venison, and salmon, are the foundation of this diet. Glucosamine and chondroitin encourage healthy joint function. Prebiotics have been included to assist with the development of healthy gut flora. Cons: There is a heavy emphasis on lentils, peas, and potatoes, foods that can be common allergens for many dogs and that have also been linked to lowered fertility rates in breeding dogs. The addition of taurine would help to boost overall cardiac health, and it, unfortunately, is not present in this food formulation. The gentlemen who found the pup, Corporal Lee Duncan, returned home to Los Angeles, bringing the pup with him. Here he began to train the pup, equipping him with the skills for life on the big screen. That pup was named Rin Tin Tin. A dog of immense versatility, the German Shepherd is a dog that possesses great talent and excels at many different activities including as a service or therapy dog, police and military work, scent detection, and more. The breed is a happy worker and loves to learn new skills, making this dog a true joy to train. The original purpose of the German Shepherd was to serve as a herding dog. In addition to this role, the German Shepherd also provided comfort to those involved in the rescue efforts and the family members of those lost in this tragedy. A breed with lots of energy to spare, the German Shepherd either needs a job to do or vast amounts of daily exercise at a vigorous pace. Dogs that do not receive an appropriate amount of exercise each day may develop nuisance behaviours such as persistent barking, digging, and chewing. Intensely loyal to those it loves most, the German Shepherd will protect its home, hearth, and family with extreme vigilance. The breed is naturally wary of strangers and is not overly welcoming to new people entering its territory. Though the German Shepherd most often enjoys good health, there are a number of different health problems that can plague this intelligent, athletic breed. These may include hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, degenerative myelopathy, allergies, and exocrine pancreatic deficiency. Unfortunately, a good diet alone is not sufficient to prevent disease from occurring in any dog breed; however, the right food can help lay an excellent foundation for optimal canine wellness. The best dog foods for German Shepherds include supplements to help boost overall joint, heart, and skin health. The ideal diet for the German Shepherd is comprised of approximately 18 percent protein and 5 percent fat. Choosing the Correct Calorie Count for German Shepherds To enjoy optimal health and wellness, the German Shepherd does best on a well-balanced diet comprised of the finest quality ingredients and based on a lean meat protein. One of the most important things a dog owner must do is select the right diet for their dog. Once this task is complete, it is then necessary to determine how much of the food the dog should eat per meal. Though this may seem like a daunting task, the best dog foods for German Shepherds provide owners with a starting point through the suggested serving sizes listed on their packaging. The German Shepherd is both active and athletic. If sufficiently exercised and fed in appropriate amounts each day, this dog type should not become overweight. However, since the German Shepherd can be predisposed to developing hip and elbow dysplasia, maintaining a healthy body weight is critically important. For this reason, free feeding is strongly discouraged, and all food should be carefully measured and monitored. The German Shepherd is one of many breeds that can be predisposed to developing the life threatening condition called bloat. Though experts are uncertain what factors must combine to result in this issue, it is believed that eating too much and too rapidly may be partly to blame. To prevent this from happening, the German Shepherd should be fed a large breed food formulation if possible as these types of diets contain big enough pieces of food to encourage slow and thoughtful chewing and swallowing. Dog Food Dietary Requirements for German Shepherds The busy German Shepherd thrives on a high quality diet that is based on a lean, meat-based protein. The best dog foods for German Shepherds include a whole meat or meat meal as their foundational ingredient. By-products are commonly used by many commercial dog food companies as they are an inexpensive source of protein that is derived from meat. However, this type of protein is taken from cuts of the animal that are less desirable for human consumption, and thus, are not the ideal choice for the active German Shepherd. Other protein sources often seen in dog foods are the plant-based proteins soy, corn, and wheat. These ingredients have been linked to allergies in many dogs and make a poor foundation for a high quality diet. These items offer no nutritional value to the German Shepherd, and foods containing them are best avoided. From carbohydrates, the German Shepherd gains the fuel it requires for fluid digestive processing and a thriving immune system. The ideal source for these carbohydrates is fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Dogs with sensitivities to grains may do best on a grain-free food. Healthy fats contribute the essential fatty acids needed for optimal coat and skin health. These fats are best obtained from animal sources and include such foods as chicken fat and oily fish. Alternatively, some plant-based oils offer ample amounts of the required nutrients the German Shepherd must have. Supplements included in a food formulation help a diet to be more well-rounded, providing added nutritional benefits to the German Shepherd. The most beneficial supplements for the German Shepherd are glucosamine, chondroitin, taurine, prebiotics, and probiotics. Things to Look for in the Best Dog Foods for German Shepherds In selecting the best dog food for the German Shepherd, here are some guiding principles to keep in mind: Meets APHA nutritional requirements for a complete and balanced food Free from chemicals, flavours, colours, or other difficult to identify ingredients Fortified with beneficial supplements Based on lean meat proteins Comparing The Best Dog Food for German Shepherds. May reduce the risk of bloat Here are some tips to get you started with feeding your puppy on kibble Avoid changing food in week one If you decide to feed your puppy on kibble, you may feel overwhelmed by the range and variation of puppy food available to you. There are grain free kibbles, hypoallergenic kibbles, and many other options to confuse you. In the first week with your puppy the choice is simple: feed the same food that the puppy was being fed by their breeder. Most breeders wean their puppies onto a well known brand of dry puppy food and will send you home with several days supply. Use this, and if your puppy has no problems, stick with it for a while. Moving homes is stressful for a puppy and stress can cause tummy upsets in young dogs. The last thing your puppy needs on top of a massive change in lifestyle and family, is a change in diet too. What To Feed: Key Points Feed the same food as the breeder Choose a mid range priced kibble 8 week puppies don't need milk Provide fresh drinking water all day Choose a mid-range priced kibble Brands of kibble vary widely in price. Sometimes the difference in cost is misleading as cheaper brands may have a lot more filler in them, and you may actually have to feed larger quantities of food to achieve the same result as a more expensive brand. If and when you decide to move on from the food that the puppy's breeder gave you, don't worry too much about which brand to pick. Choose a mid range brand and see how you get on with that. Many years ago, before good quality puppy food was available, puppies this age were fed on puppy milk replacements, and fillers such as breakfast cereal. This is no longer considered a necessary or adequate diet for a puppy. Provide fresh drinking water Dry food makes puppies thirsty. Your puppy should have drinking water available at all times during the day. It is fine to take the water away at bedtime provided your puppy has not eaten for a couple of hours. Remember to return the water first thing in the morning. Stored fat provided a reserve that the puppy could draw on if they were too ill to eat. Before vaccines became available this may have been of benefit to some puppies. Nowadays we know that the disadvantages of being a fat puppy outweigh any benefits. Puppies that are overfed, grow too fast which puts a strain on their joints. And being slim is now widely accepted as the most healthy body shape for a puppy. How Much Food: Key Points Start with the manufacturers guide Assess the puppy's condition Adjust the quantities Weight for weight, some brands are much denser in calories and nutrients than others. As a rule of thumb you should feed your puppy according to the manufacturers instructions as a starting point. Then assess your puppy's condition and adjust quantities if necessary. You'll find some tips below for making that assessment and your veterinarian will be able to confirm whether or not your puppy is a healthy weight when you visit them for vaccinations. It's important that you are not guided by your puppy's appetite. Many, if not most, puppies will seriously overeat if fed to appetite. If your puppy is full of energy, and you can feel but not easily see, their ribs, then your puppy is likely getting enough to eat. If you can easily see ribs then it's time to increase the manufacturer's recommended daily rations by a quarter for a week or so, and reassess at the end of that time. Assessing Your Puppy's Condition If you run your hands down along your puppy's sides you should be able to feel their ribs by pressing gently. Their knobbles on their spine and the tops of their hip bones should not be visible at all. They should be well covered and not easy to feel. A healthy puppy also has a bit of a waist when viewed from above or the side. If your puppy is much wider in the middle than at their hips and shoulders, and you cannot easily feel their ribs when pressing gently along their sides, the quantity of food recommended by the manufacturer is probably too much for your puppy. Reduce the daily ration by a quarter for a short period, and reassess every few days. This is the case even with great quality puppy food. You will need to divide your puppy's daily ration of food into small portions delivered throughout the day. Don't be tempted to put the day's ration down in a bowl and let the puppy help themselves. Many puppies will gorge the whole lot at once. For example, you could feed your puppy at 7am, 11am, 3pm, and 7pm. Make sure that the last meal is at least two hours before your bed time. This gives you the best chance that your puppy will last through the night without needing to poop. For example, you could feed your puppy at 7am, 1pm, and 7pm. After 6 months of age you can divide the daily ration into two portions, and just feed morning and evening. Feeding And Play Our dogs do not even own a food bowl until they are around six months old. We use up all their food in training games. This works well if you are at home during the day. Divide the puppy's four portions into four small containers with lids and starting from their previous meal time, feed them their kibble as as you play Puppy Games. When you get to the next meal time, give the puppy all the food that is left in the first box. Then repeat with the second box As you get better at doing this, you'll find you are able to spread the food ration out fairly evenly across the day This helps to create a brilliant bond between you and your puppy and gets you off to a great start with training Puppies That Need Different Diets Part of the reason for the bewildering variety of puppy food is that different types of dog may need different types of diet. Different Diets: Key Points Large breeds need different food Feed small breeds more frequently Size Matters Food that is manufactured for giant dogs is not the same as food that is manufactured for tiny dogs. And it is not just the size of each piece of kibble that is different. Different breeds of dog grow at different rates, and as a general rule, larger breeds grow more slowly than smaller breeds. It's important that we enable these correct growth rates because super fast growth can be very damaging for a young dog. When you purchase your bag of puppy food you'll need to make sure it is the right food for the size of your dog Adjust Schedules If necessary Very small toy dogs may need to have their daily ration divided into several portions for longer. Little dogs such as Chihuahuas may struggle to eat larger portions, even as they grow older and are prone to low blood sugar if left for too long between meals Feeding A Flat Faced Puppy While some flat-faced dogs will cope well with ordinary puppy food, you can buy puppy food that is specifically designed for flat-faced dog breeds such as Pugs and French Bulldogs. This is usually food that has been designed to be easy to grasp, and may contain ingredients designed to encourage chewing and reduce the dental problems that are common in these breeds. Have a chat with your veterinarian about these options. They do best on a high protein, high fat meal with limited Read More Raw Food for Puppies: How to Feed Your Puppy on Natural Raw Food Whilst most dogs nowadays feed on commercial kibble, there is a growing interest in raw food for puppies. They need a food that is high. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.

But sometimes life situations dictate that a dog needs to be surrendered. The volunteers at Boxer Rescue Ontario know how difficult it is to make a decision to surrender your dog and we commit that we will take all available measures to facilitate a new loving home for your boxer where he will be happy, healthy and safe! A volunteer from our intake department will get back to you as soon as possible to go over the details. Rescue boxers make wonderful additions to a home, but they require work and commitment. Please read the requirements before completing an application form. Once you submit your application, our volunteers will review it and you may be contacted to set up a phone interview, provided you meet the criteria for the dog s you have applied for. The interview usually takes about 30 minutes and allows us to confirm the details of your application. It also gives us a better idea of what your family and home are like so that we can assess whether the boxer you applied for is a fit. If the boxer is not suitable for your home, and you have asked to keep your application on file, we are in a better position to find a match that would be right for your home. Please, due to the demands on our volunteers time, we are not able to contact all of our approved applicants and provide status updates. Matched with a dog — Successful applicants are matched with a dog. We typically have a large number of applicants interested, but our primary concern is finding the perfect fit for our foster dogs; we do not operate on first come first serve basis. Please be patient through this process. Home visit — After the phone interview and if your application is chosen for one of our dogs a volunteer will contact you to set up a home visit at a suitable time when all members of your household can be present. You will not be permitted to meet one of our foster dogs until the home visit has been successfully completed. This is the opportunity for your family including any dogs you have, to meet our rescue boxer. If all goes well you proceed with the adoption contract and an adoption fee and taking your rescue boxer home that day. Puppies at this age cannot have their vetting completed before adoption and the adopters of puppies are contractually obligated to complete their vetting i. We would happily accept any amount over and above these minimum fees in order to help other dogs in our care. After you adopt we will follow up with your during your initial adjustment period. Remember that we are always available to answer questions and provide help when possible. Please be patient with your newest family member. As big as an adjustment that your family is experiencing it is tenfold for your new boxer. Give them a chance to adopt to their new environment and to become the family member they want to be. The CKC offers a list of reputable Boxer breeders that breed high-quality dogs. There are many websites that are offering Boxer puppies from different breeders in Canada. When getting a Boxer puppy, it is advisable to avoid pet stores and puppy mills because these places do not guarantee healthy litters and well brought up Boxer puppies. The Best Boxer Breeders In Ontario A breeder is not just a person you will buy your dog from and forget about ever making contact with that person again. A breeder is so much more than that. When getting your new puppy, you will make contact with the desirable Boxer breeder through either a phone call or social networks. Most reputable breeders will be happy to answer your questions and help you with any concerns you may have during the process. Soon, you and your Boxer breeder will become a great team that will focus on raising a healthy Boxer puppy to becoming a healthy adult Boxer dog. Here are some of the best Boxer breeders in Ontario! These purebred dogs are mostly of European ancestry, meaning that they were bred with the high-quality European Boxer. This Boxer breeder is registered with the Canadian Kennel Club. Not only that, but these puppies can also be brought to dog shows as they make perfect candidates in the working dog group. The Boxer puppies from Tanoak Boxers have been examined and vaccinated by a veterinarian, and they come with a health certificate. All of the Boxer puppies are nurtured in a loving environment. The house is located meters into a vegetation-rich green environment. All can be arranged through contact with this Boxer breeder. Each of the Boxer puppies has its own crate with a blanket and a toy to keep them comfortable and engaged. When visiting this breeder, the Boxers will happily greet you with lots of barking, but once you sit down, they will calm down. This breeder will let you engage with each dog to make it easier for you to choose the perfect Boxer puppy. One more thing to mention is that these Boxer puppies have plenty of time to wander and play in the spacious, enclosed back yard during the day. Because so much love and care has been put into breeding these wonderful family companions, the Tanoak Boxer puppies are to be put in loving homes that will provide them with all the care and attention they need! Skin diseases 1. Respiratory System: One of the important things to mention about this dog breed is that the Boxer dog is a brachycephalic dog breed. It means that their skull has a different shape as compared to another dog. So just like all these dog breeds, Boxer dogs will snore a lot and the reason is their specific skull anatomy. Snoring is not considered a serious health condition. However, it is due to airflow obstruction which can result in some other serious respiratory diseases. Heart Conditions: Having a purebred Boxer puppy, there are likely chances that it will inherit health problems that are specific to its breed. Boxers are medium-sized dogs and are prone to different heart conditions. Heart disease is very common in Boxer puppies so much so that the disease got its name Boxer cardiomyopathy. This condition in Boxer dogs is also known as Arrhythmogenic Right 3. Breathing difficulties, heart murmurs, coughing, fainting and other symptoms can be seen in the early life of these dogs usually during the first year. However, not all Boxer dogs will inherit this condition. Canine hip dysplasia Depending upon the body type and size of the Boxer dog, there are chances that it may suffer from hip dysplasia. This disease is also an inherited trait but this condition can also be due to injuries. Another term used for describing hip dysplasia is dislocation of the hip joint. Usually, you will find this condition in medium to large-sized dog breeds such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retriever, the Great Dane etc. This is a very painful health problem and the dog can feel difficulty in rising and moving and can suffer from depression, lethargy, loss of muscle mass and weakness in the hind legs. Why is it important to choose Reputable Boxer Breeder? Choosing the right Boxer breeder is very important as most things depend on this. You are already familiar that this breed is prone to different health problems. A reputable breeder will do predictive genetic testing and health tests to predict the health risk of Boxer dogs. Moreover, these breeders will happily offer you a health guarantee for Boxer puppies that usually comes with a health certificate. So to ensure that your new Boxer puppy is happy and healthy, always get it from the best Boxer breeder. When it comes to finding the perfect Boxer puppy in Ontario, price is often a major consideration. While there is no definitive answer when it comes to how much a Boxer puppy may cost, there are a few things that can help you budget for your new furry friend. However, depending on the specific breeder and bloodline of your puppy, the price could be higher or lower. In addition to the cost of the puppy itself, there are also a few other expenses to consider when bringing a Boxer into your home. These include things like shots, spaying or neutering, and microchipping. All of these costs can add up, so be sure to factor them into your budget when deciding whether or not a Boxer is the right breed for you. When it comes to finding the perfect Boxer puppy in Ontario, price is certainly something to consider. If you know any great Boxer breeder who lives in Ontario, please let us know in the comments below. So we can add it to our list. What is the Breeder Name? Where are they located in Ontario? It really helps others who are looking for Boxer puppies in Ontario. Because you need to choose the best Boxer breeder that can give a health guarantee for the puppy. For your ease, we have researched the best boxer breeders in Ontario and have reviewed them thoroughly. These are all high reputable breeders who put their efforts, time and money into taking care of these dogs. If you want to get a new Boxer puppy, you can choose any of these breeders as they are all registered with CKC and follow high breed standards. You can share this post with someone if they are looking for reliable Boxer breeders in Ontario so they can consider one of these breeders.

Things to do with your English Bulldog New Hampshire is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in New Hampshire that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in New Hampshire that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in New Hampshire, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in New Hampshire, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in New Hampshire, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in New Hampshire, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses New Hampshire has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in New Hampshire. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, New Hampshire is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in New Hampshire? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting an English Bulldog, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to English Bulldogs". It's written in an easy-to-understand way but still has the expert knowledge to help any new owner successfully raise their Bulldog from puppy to old-age. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon, or you can download the audiobook version here. If you can't find the perfect Bulldog puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many English Bulldogs young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos! Welcome to the New Hampshire state page on TrustedPuppies. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, picturesque towns, and outdoor activities, New Hampshire is a wonderful place to find and raise your new English Bulldog companion. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional English Bulldog breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the perfect furry friend for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable NH dog breeders who specialize in raising amazing healthy puppies. Our New Hampshire breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new puppy. Discover the dynamic dog-friendly scene in New Hampshire, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Carroll County Kennel Club Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of English Bulldog canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. In the rankings of dog ownership among the states, New Hampshire occupies the 44th position, boasting an estimated thousand dogs. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable English Bulldog breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in New Hampshire. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your English Bulldog puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect English Bulldog puppy on TrustedPuppies.

If you want to know when German Shepherds stop teething or how long a German Shepherd teething lasts, check this article. You will find out information about the different German Shepherd teething stages and their corresponding German Shepherd teething age. We will also tell you about the common teething signs and symptoms and tips on how to handle puppy teething. Familiarize yourself with the stages so that you can know how to deal with teething. Early Stages: German Shepherd puppies are born without teeth. They begin getting teeth around 6 to 8 weeks of age. The incisors come first. Next is the canine teeth and the last is the premolars. Milk Teeth: The last premolar comes out between 8 to 12 weeks old. That time your GSD already has 28 milk teeth. Take your puppy to the vet so he can check if all the primary teeth have erupted. Falling Out: When your puppy is between 12 to 16 weeks of age, he starts losing baby teeth. His incisors begin to fall out. Then the canines follow and the last are the premolars. Your vet may perform dental extraction to maintain oral health. Adult Teeth: How many adult teeth do a German Shepherd have? It means a German Shepherd usually stops teething when he reaches the age of 8 months. Take your puppy to the vet so he can check if there are misalignment problems. He does this to ease the pain associated with teething. Missing teeth: For your German Shepherd puppy to grow his adult teeth, he must first lose his baby teeth. Bleeding or swollen gums: A bit of blood can come out when a tooth is dislodged. Excessive drooling: Frequent excessive drooling can be messy but this happens when your puppy is teething. Physical distress: Your German Shepherd puppy might refuse to eat which results in weight loss. He may also lose interest in playing. He might have diarrhea if he chews inappropriate objects. He may even have a low-grade fever. If this happens, consult your vet so he can prescribe some medicines to relieve the pain. Aug 9, Share Teething represents a major landmark for your German Shepherd puppy, but the process can be very annoying since it often results in destroyed shoes, furnishings, and other items around your home. German Shepherd puppies start teething whenever their puppy teeth start to grow in. Once the puppy is around six months old, most of their puppy teeth will fall out and all of their adult teeth will come in replacement. At this point, your German Shepherd will likely stop teething. Just like human babies, German Shepherd puppies are born without teeth. Once the puppy reaches three weeks old, it may start to grow in its milk teeth. All of its puppy teeth, including puppy canines and incisors, should be grown in by the end of the 8th week. At this point, your German Shepherd will likely start teething, though it might start teething slightly sooner. One of the first signs that your German Shepherd puppy is teething is finding small amounts of blood on your carpet or dog toys. This is a completely normal event because the blood is often due to the loose baby teeth or the baby teeth falling out completely. Make sure not to give your German Shepherd rawhide chews because these chews are dangerous for dogs and often lead to choking, especially in puppies. Special toys specifically made for teething puppies are best. During the teething time, German Shepherds are very likely to become destructive. Provide your German Shepherd a whole lot of exercise and additional toys to keep them entertained. Not only will this keep their minds off the teething process, but it will prevent them from destroying your home. Here are some signs that your German Shepherd is beginning to teeth: Small baby teeth are emerging and can be found on the floor, in a toy, or in the food bowl. There are small blood spots on your carpet or on toys. Your puppy is drooling a lot more than usual. You notice your puppy chewing more than usual. Your puppy may act like it is in slight pain and have a slight fever. Teeth look misaligned. If you notice one or more of these events happening, your German Shepherd is likely teething. The best thing you can do is provide your dog teething toys and a lot of exercise. Aside from that, allow nature to do its job by letting the teeth fall and the adult teeth to come in. Teething is a common occurrence in many baby animals, but you might not be sure why they teeth and chew up things in the first place. Whenever those baby teeth start to grow in, the process can be painful since the teeth have to come through the gums. The pain continues as baby teeth fall out and adult teeth replace them. German Shepherd puppies, as well as other babies, will teeth in order to ease the pain. It normally takes about three months or 12 weeks for your German Shepherd to lose all of its baby teeth. During this time, its 28 baby teeth will fall out and 32 adult teeth will grow in instead. Although the exact amount of time it takes for German Shepherds to stop teething varies from dog to dog, most puppies stop teething whenever they are between seven and eight months old. Some German Shepherds may stop teething as early as six months , but the seven month mark is much more likely. Protect Your Home During the teething process, your dog is likely to become destructive from all its chewing. Make sure to pick up shoes and other items that your dog might chew up. Even if the dog is trained , its sore teeth and gums will lead it to chew up things as pain relief. The dog is likely in a lot of pain because of the teething process. Final Thoughts German Shepherd puppies will start teething whenever they are a few weeks old. Teething will become a popular occurrence around your home until your dog is at least six months old, but teething can last an additional two months. Even though teething can be annoying for us, remember to be patient and understanding with your dog. After all, your German Shepherd puppy is likely in a lot of pain. Try to help the teething process by investing in good teething toys and dog-proofing your home for the time being. Just like us, they have baby teeth, and German Shepherds really are no different; be prepared, because German Shepherds will teethe… hard. I have a very clear memory of when we got our first ever dog. During the puppy months we would find tiny teeth on the floor which would come out as he chewed everything in sight to relieve his sore teeth and gums. This chewing is a huge part of the teething process but is something you can make easier for your German Shepherd puppy to contend with. Today I want to share everything I have learned about why German Shepherds teethe, at what age they lose their baby or milk teeth, what to expect as an owner, and how to help them… plus ways to stop them chewing your furniture! My intention is for this to be the only guide you would ever need to read about the dental development of your German Shepherd. This is completely normal during the teething phases. But when should you expect this to start and then finally stop? German Shepherd puppy baby teeth start coming through — between 2 and 3 weeks old German Shepherds are born without teeth. The 2-week point in their life is a massive time in their growth and becoming the German Shepherds we know and love. Of course, most German Shepherd owners will never get to see this phase in their dental development stage as German Shepherd puppies should not be leaving their mother until they are at least 8 weeks old. Canine teeth at which point they can start on solid foods. Pre-molars stop coming through after about 6 weeks. By 8 weeks of age, your German Shepherd should have grown all of its 28 milk teeth. German Shepherd starts teething and growing adult teeth — 12 weeks of age onwards The next stage of dental development is the teething phase. When do German Shepherds lose their baby teeth? German Shepherd puppies will lose their baby teeth at around 3 months or 12 weeks old. This the age at which German Shepherds start to teeth as they lose the milk teeth which fall out. There are 28 baby teeth in total, and surprisingly, 32 adult teeth which will grow through in the place of the milk teeth. German Shepherd teething age will vary, but typically starts at 3 months. German Shepherd puppies stop teething — 7 to 8 months of age When do German Shepherds stop teething? German Shepherd puppies will typically stop teething at around 7 to 8 months old. German Shepherd adult teeth take a lot longer to grow and push through compared to their baby milk teeth. The molars at the back are the ones that are particularly stubborn. At the very latest, your 8-month-old German Shepherd puppy should have stopped teething. Anything after that age would be unusual, but still not unheard of. Most German Shepherds will now have all 42 adult teeth. Signs of teething in German Shepherd puppies As you might have already experienced with your German Shepherd puppy, the first sign of teething is them chewing everything in sight. Small baby teeth: One of the more obvious signs is finding their cute little teeth. They might be on the floor, embedded in a toy, or near a food bowl. Blood spots on toys: As German Shepherds teethe, they will chew on their toys to relieve the pain. This can result in blood when baby teethe come out or gums are irritated. Lots of drooling: Teething puppies can drool, so expect to see more saliva than usual coming from their mouths. Even more chewing: When German Shepherds teethe, they need to relieve the pain and the best way to do this is by chewing. Give them chew toys and keep them away from anything that you value! Sore gums: Teething German Shepherds will get inflamed and red gums. They will look really sore, because the larger adult teeth are pushing up through. Change in behavior: Your German Shepherd puppy will be in pain from time to time and might even be irritable. Try to distract them with teething toys and lots of attention. Mild fever: If you have ever had kids, you will know that they can get a little hot when teething. German Shepherd puppies are the same. Misaligned teeth: As the adult teeth come through, they might not always push a baby tooth. Your German Shepherd might have a bit of a redneck look at the two teeth sit together until the milk tooth falls out. Recommended German Shepherd teething toys All puppies need something to chew on when new teeth are coming through. They will try to chew your shoes, furniture… pretty much anything. To help your German Shepherd puppy when teething, instead invest in some teething toys that are hard and durable enough to give their gums relief. There are two teething toys we used with our own puppy which always worked a treat. Not only is a great for German Shepherds to get their teeth around, but you can also put treats inside of it to mentally challenge them as well. What we also used to do was place ours in the freezer before letting our teething puppy have. That way it was really nice and cold and helped to soothe his sore gums. My second recommendation is the Nylabone dog chew on Amazon. This is how much they will end up chewing it! How to stop your German Shepherd puppy chewing when teething Once those milk teeth start to fall out, your German Shepherd puppy will want to get his or her teeth around anything to give much needed pain relief. You might have to hide things, reduce their access to certain rooms, and keep a close eye on them. Chew proof your home: You might need to install stair gates to restrict access to certain rooms where your prized furniture is located. You might have to move things above their height. Nothing is safe from a teething German Shepherd puppy! Give them frozen treats: As well as chew toys, a piece of frozen carrot or an ice cube can really help to soothe their sore gums. Keep them exercised: German Shepherds that have energy to burn will chew more than those that are tired out. Give your German Shepherd puppy a couple of walks a day and provide plenty of indoor play time too. Keep them entertained: Bored German Shepherds tend to be destructive. Get their toys out to keep them mentally challenged and distracted whilst teething. Puppies can cause utter devastation whilst teething. You just need to look at how chewed the corner of our wooden dining room table was during the teething phase. German Shepherd teething can last a while and your furniture will know it! What other owners say I am part many different German Shepherd social media groups, and recently asked people about their own experiences with their own puppies and teething. Bored German Shepherds will start chewing your things when they teethe. Nylabone and Kong Toys are two of my faves. Bully sticks and Himalayan cheese sticks are good. We also use real bones from the meat department at our local store, frozen so they last longer, and our dogs love them. If your German Shepherd is teething and eats dry food try and soften the biscuits as chewing hard food can be a big turn off put for them as their gums can be quite sensitive. Puppies crave different things at different times and are learning what their teeth can do in addition to the teething that they are going through. I recommend 20 different teething toys and rotate them. They hate the smell and it will stop them chewing your stuff. And give him chews. It is boredom that makes them chew more than anything. Just put a knot in each end and wet them, then freeze them! He loved it and still just loves playing with tea towels now at nearly 2 years old. Would recommend putting the tea towel in a food bag when freezing. How much pain they are will vary from puppy to puppy — our own dog had quite mild teething pain from what we could tell, but it depends on the dog. But, almost all of them will chew. You can expect to see little teeth on the floor or stuck into things they have chewed on, plus those little blood spots I mentioned. At this time of their dental development, your German Shepherd puppy will need your love and support, plenty of chewable toys, patience, and understanding. You might also like… If you enjoyed this guide to German Shepherd teething ages and how long it all lasts, then you might also like these other German Shepherd puppy related articles:. Related posts German Shepherd puppy teething stages German Shepherd puppies start teething when their baby milk teeth fall out and their adult teeth start growing in. During your German Shepherd puppy teething stages, you can expect small blood stains or spots on his or her toys. You may even find his or her small loose teeth on your floor or carpet. But, when do German Shepherds start teething, and when do German Shepherds stop teething? Here are the German Shepherd teeth stages. Save Big On Dog Essentials! Welcome to our pack! German Shepherd puppy teeth start growing between 2 to 3 weeks old Like humans, German Shepherd puppies are also born without any teeth. Around the 2 weeks mark or 14 days, the German Shepherd baby teeth or puppy milk teeth will start to come in. This is around the same time they start to open their eyes. When the puppy teeth start pushing through their gums, they can be sharp. Your German Shepherd puppy has different types of canine teeth. They are: Incisors Front teeth. Canine teeth When canine teeth grow in, dogs can start eating solid foods. Pre-molars After around 6 weeks, pre-molars stop coming through. These are also the exact orders that the puppy baby teeth will come through. Your German Shepherd puppies will have grown all 28 puppy milk teeth by the time they reach 8 weeks old. German Shepherd puppies start teething and growing adult teeth from 12 weeks old onwards When do German Shepherd puppies lose their teeth? So, when do German Shepherds lose their puppy teeth? When do German Shepherds lose their baby teeth? Nine to ten weeks after their baby teeth have grown in, their adult teeth will start to push through as well. At this point, your German Shepherd puppies should be 12 weeks 3 months old and they should have a total of 28 puppy teeth with 32 adult teeth expected to come through next. As they prepare for the adult teeth to grow in, the puppy milk teeth start to fall out. So at 12 weeks old, the German Shepherd puppies will begin the teething stage and the 32 adult teeth will replace their puppy milk teeth. When do German Shepherds stop teething? The teething stage will begin from month 3 to when the puppies reach 7 to 8 months old so that is a 4 to 5 months timeframe between when the teething stage to when it ends. Some puppies could complete the teething phase before they reach 7 to 8 months old, while other puppies could take longer. How long do German Shepherds teethe for: Up to 20 to 24 weeks For the most part, many German Shepherd puppies will have stopped teething by the time they reach 6 months or 24 weeks old. Every dog is different and the dental development stages vary for each dog. While the puppy milk teeth push through easily, the same can not be said of the adult teeth. It takes time for the German Shepherd adult teeth to push through and grow. It will take the molars to grow in. This is pretty abnormal, but can still happen. At this point, your German Shepherd dogs should have a total of 42 shiny, white, and strong adult teeth. When do German Shepherd puppies start teething? When German Shepherd puppies start teething, there are plenty of signs to let you know that they are teething. You might know from your puppies chewing on furniture, shoes, and everything they can get ahold of. Bloodstains or blood spots on the toys Teething can be both uncomfortable and painful for your little German Shepherd pup. To get through that pain or as a way of relieving that pain, your puppy may chew their toys more. Chewing also helps them cope with the pain. We highly recommend buying some chew toys to keep them biting on the toys and not the valuable items in your house. Frequent drooling During this time, your puppy may drool more than usual. Behavioral change due to pain of teething Due to the pain, frequent gum irritation, and discomfort, your German Shepherd puppy may act out. The adult teeth are growing in and they are relatively larger so it will disrupt the gums a little. Teeth are misaligned Some baby teeth will remain in place as the adult teeth push their way through. Thus, some teeth will be misaligned. This may seem weird, but the baby milk teeth will fall out before your pup knows it. Mild fever Like our kids, our German Shepherd puppies can also get a mild fever when they are teething. This is absolutely normal. We highly recommend that German Shepherd puppies chew on teething toys when their adult teeth are coming in. This can be your most expensive shoes, purse, sofa, tables, blankets, beds, and more! Make sure the toys are strong and durable, not soft or stuffed. The hard and durable chew toys will allow your German Shepherd puppies to satisfy their chewing and provide them soft and sore gums with much-needed relief. When our dogs were puppies and going through the teething stage, we gave them these teething toys and we believe these are great teething toys for German Shepherd puppies too. What we like about these teething toys is that they can also work as a treat too. Your German Shepherd puppies will enjoy getting their teeth on this. Before we used to give these to our pups, we put them in the fridge first. This makes the toy very cold and is a great way to numb the sore and inflamed gums. Best of all, you can add treats or put peanut butter inside the toy to mentally stimulate your pups. It will take a German Shepherd puppy between 4 and 6 months to complete teething. During this time, you want to have your veterinarian check your puppy for any dental issues. Surgery may be required if his bite needs to be corrected, which is meant to help with any potential eating issues in the future. If your puppy is teething, he will start to chew more frequently on his chew toys. A German Shepherd puppy needs to lose his baby teeth before his adult teeth can take form. If your puppy is teething, you may start to notice that he is missing teeth, or you may find a missing tooth around your home. Another sign that your puppy may be teething is if he has bleeding or swollen gums. You may even see some blood if his baby teeth are falling out. You may also see some blood traces on his chew toys. If your puppy is drooling more than normal, this may be another sign that he is teething. Your German Shepherd puppy may even show signs of physical distress, which can include weight loss if he refuses to eat, and becoming uninterested in playtime. He could also experience diarrhea due to chewing on foreign objects, and could also develop a fever. In these situations, it may be necessary to consult your vet. The good thing is, this period lasts for a relatively short period. The teething process starts when the first baby teeth emerge, which will occur during the first month. By six or seven weeks, you can expect your puppy to have 28 teeth instead of the 42 they will have as adults. German Shepherd puppies will start to see adult teeth between six and eight weeks, as they begin to lose their baby teeth. This part of the teething stage is painful for puppies, with chewing being the primary form of seeking relief. Although when the adult teeth settle into the jawbone, there may be some more discomfort. They will be able to determine if any teeth need to be removed to make room for adult teeth. During the time your puppy is teething, it will need sufficient stimulation. You can also give your puppy chew treats — there are a number of safe, high-quality ones that act as both a toy and food. These chew treats will also help to prevent your puppy from destroying your furniture! Another way to help teething puppies is to make ice cubes from chicken, beef, or vegetable broth. Frozen baby carrots also work well. There are also a number of puppy teething gels on the market that can give your German Shepherd puppy relief, but be sure to choose a teething gel that is safe and natural. They may include ingredients like chamomile, clove oils, and peppermint. Rawhide is another inexpensive and popular option. Chewing rawhide will also help your puppy develop strong jaws. However, it is important to supervise your puppy when he is chewing on rawhide, since choking is possible. Dogs that ingest a lot of rawhide can develop gastrointestinal issues, and some rawhides are not edible, so read the labels carefully. Clinically proven to reduce tartar build up Cleans plaque and tarter between teeth, all the way down to the gum line Includes 4-Packs of three different flavors: 32 original, 12 fresh, 18 Beef Check Price Other ways to help ease the pain of teething Flavored and treat-based toys provide a lot of fun for puppies. One of the best things about these types of toys is that they will keep your puppy busier for that much longer. Puppy teething sticks have a rubber surface that helps soothe achy gums and teeth. Most of these sticks feature grooves that help clean teeth more effectively. You might also consider bones for your young German Shepherd to chew on. However, make sure you use beef marrow bones, instead of pork, chicken, or turkey bones. Non-beef bones can splinter too easily and cause serious injury. Dental bones can also be helpful for your puppy. These bones help promote dental health, which is good to manage as early as possible in your dog. These bones are durable and also do not present the splintering hazard that other bones do. One of the outcomes of using the right teething products should be having a puppy focused on something other than their mouth pain. The more controlled their mouth pain, the more your puppy can concentrate on obedience training. German Shepherd puppies may develop the habit of biting and nipping when teething. It may seem cute, but it is important to nip that behavior in the bud since it can become a habit that continues well into adulthood. Most puppies learn bite inhibition before you bring them home, as these puppies are used to playing with their siblings and biting each other all day. As they play with each other, they learn the bite tolerance levels of their siblings. If you have a lower pain tolerance than a puppy, you will have to teach them what yours is. Your puppy will start to associate biting with the end of you playing with him and him receiving attention from you. Do this every time he bites and nips. Then, put your thumb under his tongue, and put your index finger under his chin. He will feel discomfort, and if you do this consistently, he will associate biting with discomfort. Pull away and pinch your puppy on the neck. Do this consistently, and he will associate biting with pinching. Since puppies typically become wary of strangers at 18 months of age, it is important to start socialization as soon as possible. You can try puppy playgroups and dog parks — this socialization will help them learn how to play nicely with others. When you are training him, do not allow him to chew on your hands. However, remember to reward good behavior. If your puppy is listening to you, reward him with a treat for learning something new, and make sure you always have enough treats on hand! As he gets better with the training, food treats can be replaced with cuddles. What should I do if my German Shepherd chews something inappropriate? Punishment is not the way to correct bad behavior. Physical punishment and yelling should be avoided. Catching the dog in the act is the key to making discipline work effectively. If you scold the dog after the fact, they will not understand why they got into trouble. Quick diversion with a more appropriate chew toy works better. One of the advantages of using diversion as a technique is that it teaches the puppy what to do, instead of only showing them what not to do. Positive training methods have a more significant overall effect on your puppy. A common mistake that many people make is believing that training must be halted during the teething stages. Puppies can and should be trained during this time. However, training will give your puppy a needed diversion that will hopefully keep the chewing under control. Even if you train the puppy during teething, they will understand what is and is not appropriate behavior. This is key to a well-adjusted puppy. The age where a puppy is still teething is a perfect time to do crate training. One of the best things about crate training is that it is an excellent way to get them acclimated to their own sleeping space, helping you reach two goals at once. Also be sure to keep dangerous foods for dogs like chocolate and grapes well hidden. If your German Shepherd is past the normal teething stage but is still chewing, anti-chew sprays can come in handy. These sprays will make whatever object the dog is chewing taste very unpleasant, allowing the sprays to serve as deterrents. Jubilant Pups emphasizes the importance of giving a teething German Shepherd puppy sufficient exercise to help avoid needless destruction. An example would be 15 minutes for a three-month-old puppy. The advantage of twice-daily play sessions is making sure your puppy gets their exercise, without becoming too exhausted. You want your puppy calm, but not sick from overexertion. Even though teething puppies will do a lot of chewing, sufficient exercise will help curb the worst behavior. Your puppy will be better-behaved overall, and less likely to chew inappropriately. Nervous energy is behind a lot of undesirable behaviors like nuisance chewing. A more relaxed puppy is less likely to take out their frustration through chewing and other unwanted behaviors. The period between the puppy initially losing their baby teeth and getting adult teeth will be one of the most challenging times where behavior is concerned. Try your best to remain patient with your puppy during this time. Once your puppy has reached the age where adult teeth are settling in, start playing fetch with your dog. This is a perfect way to bond with your German Shepherd puppy through play. Some of the benefits of fetch as an activity include increased stamina, endurance, and better-developed muscles. Your puppy will likely look forward to it. Even when German Shepherd Dogs still have puppy teeth, they can be very sharp and cause painful bites. Daily brushing prevents tooth decay and other oral problems in puppy teeth. Choose a dog toothpaste when brushing as human toothpaste may upset his stomach. Keep regular appointments with your vet so they can keep track of the oral health of your dog. Feeding your dog a healthy diet will also help to keep his teeth healthy. You can ask for dog food recommendations at your local pet store to promote oral health. German Shepherd Gums Typically, the german shepherd dogs have a bluish or black tongue along with grey or black-pigmented gums. The black spot is melanin, a natural pigment. If this happens, take your german shepherds to your vet as soon as possible. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the German Shepherds gums, which develops when the plaque is not removed and causes the gums to be inflamed so the gums bleed easily. Periodontitis is a German Shepherds gum disease that affects not only the gums but also other tissues around the teeth. This will result in bone loss. Even though it is a phase of relatively short duration, a teething puppy can leave a lot of destruction in their wake. However, the more you know about the teething stages, the better you can help your puppy to adjust. Regardless of how frustrating it can be to live with a teething puppy, knowing when and how quickly they will go through the stages makes everything easier. German Shepherd puppies will go through four stages of teething. When your German Shepherd puppy is born, it will have no teeth, just like a human baby. They will start to grow in their baby teeth when they reach about six weeks old, maybe seven or eight depending on the puppy. By this point, your German Shepherd puppy will have up to 28 teeth. At the week mark, your puppy will start losing their baby teeth to get ready for their adult teeth to grow in. By the time they are eight months old, your German Shepherd puppy should have grown in all 42 of their adult teeth. What can you give a teething German Shepherd? You may have noticed that your puppy has started chewing everything they can get their paws on, and this is most likely due to teething. Ice cubes are also a cheap and easily accessible solution. Or, let them sit and chew on a block of ice, this will keep them occupied while calming their gums. You can also purchase puppy teething gel that contains soothing ingredients such as clove oils, peppermint and chamomile. Recommended reading:.

Lifespan Sociability Difficult to find, the silver German Shepherd puppy can cost more than a standard color. Their rarity means that it is unusual to find this coloring in shelters. As they are still used as guard dogs, you must meet a rescue dog before you consider adopting them. Check with the Kennel Club for recognized breeders and be prepared to ring around to find silver or grey German Shepherds because they are rarer. Meet the puppy and at least its mother before buying and taking your new dog home and ask for evidence of health screening to ensure that it has less chance of hereditary conditions that the breed is prone to. The dog was first bred in by Max von Stephanitz. He wanted to create the ultimate herding dog. Von Stephanitz believed that the dog should be bred primarily for herding but their purpose soon evolved. Many critics say that the modern breed is too far from his ideas to be considered a true German Shepherd. The word dog is included in the breed registry to differentiate from German Shepherd people. In Germany, it has the breed name Deutscher Shaferhund and in parts of Europe it is also sometimes known as the Alsatian, a name which was given to it after World War II when its popularity waned and breeders wanted to reinvigorate its popularity. Following the formation of The Seeing Eye in , the breed was trained and used for the purpose. It was later decided that the German Shepherd was better suited to police work while the friendly demeanor of the Lab and the Retriever meant they were better as blind dogs. It tests the ability of the dog but was also designed to identify those that were untrainable. The sport is more inclusive now and allows dogs of other breeds to compete. They found many uses during the conflicts, from running messages to identifying danger and alerting their handlers to the presence of those dangers. They are still used in conflicts around the world, today. A post shared by Fenris Fangs fenrisfangs 6. Rin Tin Tin the Movie Star The recognizable image of the breed and its ability to follow commands even under great pressure has seen the breed used in a wide variety of occupations and settings, including on set as movie stars. Most people have also seen the black German Shepherd and some may have even seen the white. There are 11 recognized colors including the tan and black, white, and black variations. Silver is one of the other colorations that is considered acceptable. Although liver and blue are recognized colors, these are considered to be faults. They Rank as the Third Most Intelligent Breed in the World Bested only by the hyper-intelligent Border Collie and the equally smart Poodle, the German Shepherd is ranked as the third most intelligent breed in the world. They are well known for their loyalty, watchfulness, and their energy levels, but they are also renowned for being highly intelligent animals. This has pushed their popularity as a working breed. Final Thoughts The German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds in the world, and especially in the US where they are ranked as the 2nd most popular breed. This is, in part, because they are not only popular as pets but also as working and service dogs. They have a very loyal following of owners and fans that swear by the breed, as well as many people that dream of one day owning the breed. Related Reads:. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. The banding of color on each and every individual hair leads to a variety of shades and colors which can vary extremely from sable dog to sable dog. Agouti the correct term for Sable is the genetically dominating pattern in the entire German Shepherd Dog breed. I have never owned a sable GSD until just recently however I have been told by many other sable owners that Sables tend to get darker with age - especially over their back. So I guess I'll see how my puppy turns out. It is also easy to say, that as a general rule of thumb, a sable keeps developing his final color up until the dog reaches the age of three or so - so unlike other German shepherd colors you'll never really know what the final color of sable German Shepherd will really be until the dog is completely mature. These dogs may appear in many shades of silver, gray, gold or mahogany colors. Most fall somewhere in between these extremes. Often times they also have the dark mask as well. Agouti German Shepherds can also go through many stages of coat development, both lightening and darkening, before they reach maturity. Color categorization of sables can be quite difficult when the dog is tattooed or photographed early in its life as the choice of color is often incorrect when you see this dog later in its life because the coat color can change so dramatically as the dog matures. Sable GSDs are born all tan in color. The characteristic black tipping starts coming in after a few weeks of age and then continues until the puppy is a few years old. Sable puppies color changes immensely as they grow up. Oftentimes the German Shepherd puppy will end up either darker or lighter than they were as a small puppy. The sable GSD often closely resembles their two-toned counterparts, such as the black and tan saddle back GSD's, but the sable dogs individual hairs have more than one color on each of them creating a very unique pattern specific only to that individual dog. There is quite an array of hues in the Sable German Shepherd colors, ranging from the lightest tans to the darkest blacks. German Shepherd eye color should be dark, or at least blend in well with the color of the dog. Any nose color other than black is a disqualification. Any Sable GSDs coat shade is acceptable but the richer hues are always preferred. Pale washed out colors, shades of blues and livers are considered serious faults. It is important to note that the guard hairs look as though they are banded in various shades of color and are then tipped in black. Generally speaking, there are many more of these sable German Shepherds in the U. It is also important to note that this type of coat coloration is dominant over all the others. Another name for this type of coloration is called agouti or wolf gray, and it can vary a great deal from dog to dog. Tell us all about your Sable GSD! Do you have a great story about your Sable GSD? Share it with us right here! Just type! Your story will appear on a Web page exactly the way you enter it here. You can wrap a word in square brackets to make it appear bold. For example [my story] would show as my story on the Web page containing your story. TIP: Since most people scan Web pages, include your best thoughts in your first paragraph. Upload Pictures or Graphics optional [? Click the button and find the first one on your computer. Select it and click on the button to choose it. Then click on the link if you want to upload up to 3 more images. Your Name.

What comes with your puppy? I will provide a health guarantee for 1 year. I will have your puppy checked and cleared by our vet, vaccinated, and de-wormed prior to going home with you. We will continue to follow all recommended vetting until our puppies find homes. Rabies vaccines cannot be given until 12 weeks, but will be given if we still have a puppy during their 3rd round of vaccinations. I will pre-register your puppy through AKC with basic registration. This certifies your puppy is AKC registered from the moment you take him or her home. AKC offers various levels of registration, you may upgrade registration after you take your puppy home if you desire. I will provide parental lineage going back generations for both Dame and Sire. I will send home a new puppy packet provided by AKC with all essential information for new puppy owners. This will include the registration information, puppy care information, other AKC offers, and tips for training. Your puppy will come with a blanket that will have litter mates and Mom's scent on it and a bag of transition food, so you can have time to switch your new pup over to the food of your choice without upsetting his or her little tummy. We feed our dogs Purina Varieties, depending on what is available and our puppies get Purina Puppy varieties. Our puppies will also be raised in our home, with our family and other pets. They will be well socialized, introduced to sleeping in kennels, and ready to take on the world! Car ride home with our sweet boy Max and Zero being my blanket Zero being jealous Zero joined the family in October of at 4 months old. Zero is an English Cream Golden through and through. When he came to us he acted as though he may have had some minor trauma or abandonment issues, but that is simply speculation based on his behavior. He had been returned to the breeder we adopted him from and we are his final home. What I love most about Zero is that he has never tried to challenge Max for dominance. We have tried to take in other male dogs in the past and Max has not allowed it. But Zero is very submissive to Max and they get along wonderfully. Zero can be a little high strung at times, when he hasn't had enough exercise he gets anxious and tries to run through everyone else to get outside. He will slide also right into a walls and doors on our non-carpeted floors. While it is a little funny, it is also not safe so we are doing our best to teach him patience. He certainly learns quickly, as it only took about 5 minutes for him to learn he cannot rush out of his kennel until given the command to do so. Zero does forget when he's super excited or really needs to potty! Yes, but he picks it back up quite well when reminded. Zero is co-owned by myself and our oldest son, he is primarily responsible for the care of Zero while we provide all of his necessities and vetting, until the day he may decided to move out and take Zero with him hopefully he will just stay for a while though. Zero is moving to Texas with our oldest son at the end of May and will no longer be siring pups. Maizy joined the family in February of .She has darker color but is not as deep a red as we think it will become. Both of her parents were a darker red. She is a very loyal and obedient dog. As with many female dogs, when she is in heat or expecting her behaviors change but her's are more subtle than Mini's. She loves to cuddle while she is pregnant, the rest of the time she is usually a feature near my feet. Maizy will not wonder off and does not enjoy car rides at all. She is our only dog who does not like being in a vehicle at all. She has been our most photogenic dog and we deemed her to be our model dog. Maizy was spayed in May, and will not have any future litters. Zoey joined the family in February of .She is an English Cream Golden Retriever. Zoey is a very loving and gentle dog. She does not show aggressive or protective tendencies when in heat or around her puppies like Mini and Maizy sometimes do. She welcomed our help during her labor and delivery and has allowed us and our other dogs near her puppies without issue from day one. She loves to be near me or husband and loves to be pet on her head. Sometimes she displays her belly for a good scratching too! Zoey likes to explore outside and will try to escape the fence at times, but she always comes back when called, just happy to have had a little adventure. Zoey is going to be joining the family at Life With Goldens, Theresa Thurston is a good friend and breeding mentor of mine and she will be continuing on Zoey's legacy of creating beautiful, well adjusted puppies. Get in touch at maxandminigoldens gmail. Mueller is the chief of staff for the mayor of the town of Idyllwild, Calif. Yes, Mayor Max is literally the mayor of Idyllwild, and has been nearly his whole life. He loves people, he loves to pose for photographs , and he just loves his job. The only catch? No humans could run, but locals could submit their pets as candidates. Mueller's previous golden retriever , Maximus the Mighty Dog Mueller, was the winner of the first election and served as dog mayor until he passed away halfway through his second term. Because of Max's enormous popularity in the community, Mueller sought out another retriever from Max I's bloodline to come in and serve in his place—and that's how she found Mayor Max II. The three pups helped finish out the original Mayor Max's first's term in office. They were then elected for life during the third election. Max has now even been officially recognized as the mayor by the county of Riverside. Golden Retriever Who Can Hold So Many Tennis Balls in His Mouth Makes the Guinness World Records Book Mueller and her doggie mayor and his deputies spend their days as goodwill ambassadors for the town of Idyllwild, greeting locals and tourists, visiting homes, hospitals and hospice organizations, and doing as many good deeds as possible. Mueller says that Mayor Max's office is non-partisan, and non-political—and his approval rating is unsurprisingly high. Reviews 0 Golden retriever rescue California Check our cute Golden retriever puppies available for Rescue in California from our certified reputable Golden Retriever breeders across the United States. Cheappuppiesforsale is your 1 source to find and rescue the perfect healthy AKC red, white and cream Golden Retriever for sale near you from healthy Golden parents. Golden retriever puppies originated in Scotland during the s. It was primarily developed by one man: Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, who was later known as Lord Tweedmouth. Tweedmouth, like many others during the time, was interested in breeding different types of dogs, with the goal of perfecting different breeds. With the Golden Retriever, Tweedmouth was aiming to develop a superior dog for hunting waterfowl with an even temper. To achieve this, he bred flat- and wavy-coated retrievers with Tweed Water Spaniels. The resulting breed quickly drew attention for its excellent hunting skills, and became officially known as the Golden Retriever in .Since then, the breed has established itself as a wonderful companion and working dog alike, making it one of the most popular breeds of all time. What is the Temperament of Golden Retrievers The Golden Retriever dog breed is one of the most popular dog breed in USA and there are special reasons for their popularity. Golden Retriever puppies are very affectionate, loyal and loyal to the point of breaking. Golden Retrievers are loved by all, extremely intelligent, well-mannered, adorable yet gentle with children, and they tend to get along well with other pets and strangers. They are a wonderful pet for families due to their ability to be flexible, patient and ability to adapt. A golden retriever puppy is extremely easy to train due to the way they are smart and dedicated it is towards its owners. The first Mayor Max—full name Maximus Mighty-Dog Mueller—was elected in June , beating out thirteen other dogs and two cats in the race for mayor. Sadly, his term ended abruptly with his death after just nine months in office. After nine years of loyal service to the residents of Idyllwild, Mayor Max II passed away unexpectedly of cancer in July .Residents and business owners alike appreciate the unbridled enthusiasm Mayor Max stirs up in the unincorporated city of Idyllwild, fueled by those two Chiefs of Staff, who have devoted their lives to helping Mayor Max spread goodwill to the citizens and visitors to his hometown of Idyllwild. Mayor Max I. When was the last time you had a puppy in the house? How is it to have puppies now? I had three puppies then, and that was great. No issues. Mayor Max II. I do not train that out of them. I let them be dogs. They have not settled down at all. I love that because they are naturally the way they were born to be. I let them run. I let them chew. I let them dig. I let them play. I just let them be themselves! I encourage my animals, through their death process and after they die, to stay with me. Their uniqueness is beyond the basic similarities that all golden retrievers have. Does Max III usually have visitors? Does he spend time meeting the residents of Idyllwild? I always go downtown for visiting hours. During the lockdown, I did 1, visits at our house. Individuals or groups of individuals would meet Max outside my house with masks on. Sometimes I had cars lined up the length of the driveway waiting for their turn. I came down with pneumonia in December, so I had to cancel the downtown visits, but I still allowed people to visit Max at my house. There are quite a few things that all my dogs love. You can see through all the videos on our Facebook page how much they love affection and being held. Even at 50 pounds, these dogs love their cuddles! All four of them also love any kind of action. They love to run and play with their toys. They loved it! The doctors removed a tumor the size of a grapefruit and a tumor the size of an egg. Luckily, they turned out to be benign. Now the stitches are out, and Mikey is feeling like his old self again. They were all very happy to get their a little bit of ice cream to celebrate. How well does he get along with his sister, Meadow, and his other friends? I have two sets of twins now that Max III and Meadow are a part of the family, and each pair of twins gets along great with one another. My two adult dogs, Mitzi and Mikey, are still so big and powerful compared to the puppies. All four of them are with each other every day, but I have them separated by a fence, but they can still paw up to each other and be face to face. Does Max III have any quirks? Yes, he has a funny one. I just have to wait it out. Thirty seconds will pass. Forty-five seconds. This is a sign to me that they may all be the same dog. I was always hugging him and kissing him on the face. He lets me do it and he seems to enjoy it. Cuddling on the couch! Both Meadow and Max III must have been very heavily socialized while they were with their breeder because they love cuddling a lot. We just had some visitors today who were amazed at how much the puppies love to be held. I enjoy every part of raising him, but snuggling with him on the couch is the best. We do it several times a day for as long as they want. It could be for as long as forty-five minutes! We just love to hold them, love them, and kiss them. You can feel their energy while you do it. POET is essentially our strategy for how to create peace on earth and what each individual can do to help make it happen. POET is incredibly important. I want to continue that, leaving thousands of new posts that will create the same joy and happiness as when I was alive. We recently met with a gentleman who asked me to consider the continuation of Mayor Max in a different way. He suggested creating something like a foundation that would continue beyond my lifetime. I would be so happy to know that my goal and purpose for mankind would continue.

Labs are known for excellence as sporting dogs, family companions and service dogs. Their coats come in three colors: black, yellow and chocolate, each strikingly beautiful. Regular grooming helps keep Labs looking good and helps manage their prolific shedding. Start grooming sessions while your Lab is a puppy. Labrador Coats Ablestock. Labradors have double coats -- two layers of hair, each with different texture and purpose. One layer provides water resistance, the other insulates the dogs in all types of weather. The outer layer, the guard coat, keeps a Labrador dry in wet weather. The undercoat is soft and downy, like a sweater, providing warmth. According to the American Kennel Club's breed standard, a Lab's coat "should be short, straight and very dense, giving a fairly hard feeling to the hand. The double coats, however, create two separate shedding issues: The undercoat blows about twice a year, and the outer coat sheds throughout the year. Breeders must be sure to educate puppy buyers and help them prepare for the attention needed to care for a Lab's constantly shedding coat. Puppies will start to shed their baby coats at about age 4 to 5 months; within a month or so, their coats will have transformed into the adult version. Most adult Labs shed twice a year, and during this time you will notice lots of hair around the house. Invest in a good vacuum cleaner. Your tack box or supply drawer should have a wire slicker brush to remove loose undercoat, a bristle brush, a narrow-tooth comb, a wide-tooth comb and nail clippers. Brush your Lab at least twice a week to distribute natural oils throughout the coat as well as to keep the hair from distributing itself throughout your house. Grooming sessions also strengthen your bond with your dog. Develop a regular grooming schedule for your dog. You'll come to enjoy the peaceful time you spend together. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Ask any Lab owner, and they'll tell you that Labs not only fill our homes with love and happiness but also with hair. However, if you look at their coat, you'll find that they have relatively short and straight hair. So do Labradors really shed that much all the time, or is there a specific period of shedding? Labradors shed moderately throughout the year, but the shedding increases during the molting or shedding season. It happens twice every year and lasts for two to three weeks. In spring, Labs shed their winter coat and prepare for summer. In autumn, they switch from a summer coat to a winter one. If you own a Labrador, it's essential to know about their coat and shedding. In this article, we'll discuss how much Labs shed, why they do it, and how you can manage it to prevent your home from becoming overrun with dog hair! So it's only been a few months since you got a new pup. You're already frustrated from having to clean all the hair from your clothes and furniture. Well, I've got good news and bad news for you. The good news is that it's completely normal; there's nothing wrong with your pet. The bad news? You've seen nothing, yet. Just wait till the real shedding begins! A dog's coat type plays a significant role in determining how much he will shed. Single-coat dogs shed much less than those who have a double coat. Labradors have a double coat that shields them from freezing temperatures and water. However, as we've said, a double coat also means they lose a lot more hair than dogs with a single coat. People usually think that since Labradors have short hair, they must not shed much. But that is simply not true; the fact is that Labs shed a lot. There are also other short-haired dogs like the Great Dane and Pug who shed just as much. Labradors keep shedding some amount of hair throughout the year. However, they will shed far more than usual during the molting season, which takes place every six months. This happens because they change their coat to adjust according to the weather. You'll need to be prepared to take extra measures twice a year. Labs lose their thick winter coat in spring and grow a thinner one to prepare for the summer. Similarly, they develop a thick winter coat after shedding the summer one in autumn. The process lasts for two to three weeks, and the period is known as molting or shedding season. Evolutionary Logic Behind the Shedding of Dogs Many wild animals have a biannual 'molt,' especially those living in regions with very different seasons, like foxes and wolves. They switch their coats in spring and summer to adapt to the changing temperature. Some animals even have a different colored winter coat to have camouflage against the new terrain arctic hares are an example of that. The same goes for dogs. Although they don't need to be camouflaged, they switch their coats to cope with changing weather. But your Labrador lives in your home with you, where the temperature is consistent, and his body doesn't have to fight the climate. Why does he still shed? Well, we've had the privilege of protection from weather conditions only recently. In the eyes of nature, it's a minuscular period. So Labs still exercise the shedding attribute they inherited from their ancestors. If they continue to live in our comfortable homes for the next ten thousand years, there's a chance they may not shed anymore. But until then, you'll have to deal with the constant shedding, especially since we're talking about Labradors. Labs shed more than many other breeds because of their thick double coat. Let's understand how it works. If you know anything about Labrador's history, you know that they originated in Newfoundland, Canada. They were bred to swim in icy waters and retrieve fish and ducks for fishermen. Labradors were perfect for this job because their double coat protected them from freezing water. Labrador's double coat consists of two layers: the upper layer is called the topcoat, while the layer beneath it is the undercoat. Each of them has a different purpose. The topcoat is waterproof and has silky fur. It shields the undercoat against water and protects the dog from the cold temperature of the water. Apart from that, it also isolates the skin from the wind and prevents it from getting dry. The undercoat has a short, dense layer of hair that helps regulate body temperature. This is the layer that causes extra shedding every six months. The hair grows thicker in winter to keep the dog warm, and it grows thinner to help your Lab stay cool during summer. Every dog is different and has its own personality. So it's possible for some Labradors to shed more than others. There's been no research on this topic, but logically, it's possible. Note that even if some Labs may shed more than others, you can never predict which one will shed how much. One common query about Labrador shedding is whether yellow Labs shed more than black ones or whether coat colors affects the amount of shedding. The answer is no. Labradors' coat color makes no difference to their shedding quantity and frequency. All of them have the same genetic makeup, and they will all leave hair on your clothes and carpets. Even the American and English Labradors are identical in this regard, even though their appearances are different. This misconception may have come from people noticing less fur around the house with a particular Lab. For example, if you have lighter colored furniture or floor, dark hair will be much easier to see, and you may even have to clean it multiple times a day. In that case, having a yellow Lab will make the shedding less pronounced, so it is a better pick. Similarly, if you have dark-colored floors and furniture, a yellow Lab will make it seem like there's a lot of shedding. So it would be better to own a black or chocolate Lab if you live in such a home. Don't think you can avoid cleaning hair by picking a particular coat color. But you should take your pet to the vet if you notice he is shedding excessively. It could be a sign of an underlying health condition, so you shouldn't ignore it. Lice, fleas, mites, and parasites are some common causes of excessive shedding in Labradors. Skin allergies or other skin conditions also contribute to an unusual amount of shedding. Another reason could be stress. Your Lab may start losing more hair whenever he goes into a stressful situation. Lastly, nutrition is also a factor. The healthier your dog is, the better and shinier your coat will be. A poor diet can lead to excessive shedding and a myriad of other health problems. You can't really reduce the amount of shedding, but there are a few things you can do to reduce the amount of hair in your house. It will make the shedding season more bearable. Here's how to keep your dog's coat healthy: Brushing It is best to brush your Labrador at least once every three to four days. Brush your dog outside regularly, and you'll find less hair inside the house. It not only removes loose and dead hair but also gets your pet comfortable with getting handled. I like the Hartz Groomer's Combo Brush. It's an affordable tool for everyday deshedding. The brush itself has two sides: one with stainless steel tips to remove loose hair and another with dense bristles to redistribute the natural oils on your Lab's coat. There are also brushes specifically designed to reduce shedding during the molting season. We'll discuss these products in the next section. Bathing You shouldn't bathe your Labrador excessively. Doing so can deprive him of the natural oils that are crucial for his skin. Once a month is a good bathing frequency, but you can also do it as and when your Lab needs it. It is made of natural ingredients that moisturize your pet's skin and make it silky smooth. Remember that moderation is the key to using any pet product, so don't overdo it. Diet As we've discussed, diet plays a crucial role in keeping your Lab's coat healthy. So make sure you feed your dog only high-quality kibble. Omega fatty acids are essential to keep the coat shiny and prevent your dog's skin from getting dry. You can also occasionally mix some natural ingredients home-cooked food in your Lab's meals. Many vegetables provide decent amounts of vitamins and minerals to keep your Lab's coat healthy. For a full list of vegetables and fruits your Lab can and can't eat, check out this article from the AKC. Recommended Deshedding Products There are several products you can use to reduce your Labrador's shedding. You don't need them throughout the year, but they are a must-have during the shedding season. When your Lab is blowing his coat, using deshedding tools will make a massive difference to the amount of hair in your home. Here are the two main products I recommend: FURminator Furminator is the recommended tool to remove hair from your dog's coat. It does a remarkable job at removing most of the undercoat in just one or two long strokes. It has about 22, reviews on Amazon, which means a lot of pet owners swear by it. However, it depends on your dog's particular coat. Labs can differ in the way they shed, and their coats' thickness can also be different. Your pet's age may also make a difference in how he reacts to these deshedding devices. Grooming gently and sensibly should not reveal bare skin or harm the dog's coat. You can purchase Furminator and read more about it by visiting its Amazon product page. Dog Rake Some people advise against Furminator and recommend getting a rake instead. Dog rakes are softer on your Lab's coat. They loosen knots and remove some undercoat. The removed hair may be less than if you used Furminator, but it gets the job done for the short and dense coats of Labradors. However, that doesn't mean you should keep brushing in the same area. I don't recommend a maximum of three strokes in an area per session. It's also essential to introduce your Lab to brushing tools gently so that he doesn't become fearful of them. The product I'm going to recommend has rounded ends, so it will not scratch or irritate your Lab's skin. If your pet seems to dislike Furminator, you should try a dog rake as it'll be softer and more tolerable for him. You can check out Oster Dog Rake by following the link to its Amazon product page. Wouldn't it be best to just shave my dog? It would keep him cool and free me of the hairy mess. You should never shave Labradors because they have a double coat. Their fur is not the same as our hair. It has a different function and doesn't grow back properly. Shaving can damage your Lab's coat irreversibly. So here are four reasons why you shouldn't shave your Labs: Labradors' undercoat is a soft layer of dense hair that protects them from cold. But when it grows back, it is rough and heavy never the same again. Labs have muscles that move their fur follicles up and down, letting air pass through the two coats. When you shave both coats, the new fur is not as effective at capturing air. Their natural cooling system is disrupted. As we've discussed, the undercoat protects your Lab's skin from cold weather. But when you shave the double coat, his natural protection is removed, and his skin is exposed to harmful ultraviolet rays. Increased shedding during the molting season can trigger allergies for the pet owners. They believe shaving the pet will make things better. However, shaving will expose you to even more allergens because the coat actually traps them. But that doesn't mean your Lab will not drop hairs all around the house. So the last point to discuss is the best way to clean hair from your home. The first thing you can do is to train your Lab to stay off the furniture. Given that Labs are very energetic and love to snuggle around you, it can be hard to do. But it will make cleaning much more manageable because removing hair from furniture is a challenging task. Next, you will need to regularly vacuum your floor to prevent your home from looking like a dog kennel. All carpets and drapes should be cleaned and sanitized. Most of the dead hair will drop on the floor, but some of it may float around to places your dog has never been. If you don't have time to vacuum the house, robot vacuums are an excellent choice. The one I personally use is half the price of the fancy Roombas, but works awesome! Check it out on Amazon here. It does a remarkable job at cleaning dog hair off furniture and carpets. It is also lightweight and has a sleek bagless design. With more than people rating it 4. Final Thoughts Labradors have a short, dense coat that changes every six months, known as the shedding season, and Labs shed heavily during this two-to-three-week period. This is to cope with the changing temperature. Their thin coat keeps them cold during summer, and the thick coat shields them from the cold in winter. Using deshedding tools like Furminator or dog rake can significantly decrease the amount of shedding. Labradors also shed moderately throughout the year. So expect to see some amount of hair all the time. Regular brushing, monthly bathing, and a healthy diet will keep your Lab happy and clean. There are quite a few breeds that are more likely to shed than others—and Labrador Retrievers near the top of the list. Because of their unique double coats, labs shed a lot throughout the year, and especially more so when the seasons begin to change. In the spring, labs will shed a lot of hair in an attempt to lose their winter coat and prepare for the summer. What Is a Double Coat? To be great water dogs, labs needed to have a waterproof coat with another layer to help regulate their body temperature in cold waters—which is where the double coat comes in. Image Source The first layer, the undercoat, is short and dense. The second coat, the topcoat, is longer and silkier. It helps keep the coat free of dirt and water. When your lab sheds in the spring, their bodies try to get rid of their thick and dense winter coat. That means that you should expect excess shedding anytime between March and May of each year. Later on, labs shed that same summer coat and begin to bulk up for the winter months when fall begins. This means that you can expect excess shedding again between October and December each year. Think of it this way: When temperatures start to drop, you put away your summer clothing and begin unpacking your winter gear. Then, when it begins to warm up, you pack away your winter coats and take out your summer clothing again. The same can be said for labradors. Method 5: Use a Deshedding Tool As you know, labs have a double coat. Depending on the time of year, double coats are extra thick and hard to rake through, even with your best pet brush. Heavy-duty deshedding tools are designed to remove loose or dead hair from the undercoat without damaging the topcoat so that both coats are rid of extra debris and left looking shiny and healthy. At these points, your lab is shedding its coat or growing it thicker for the cooler months. Image Source Some experts say that labs only need to be bathed once every couple of months , while others say once a month is more ideal. But if you do decide to bathe your lab more regularly, you might be surprised to see how much loose dog hair is found at the bottom of the tub. One of the best ways to take the stress out of constantly chasing after furballs around your home is to invest in a smart vacuum. A good rule of thumb is that your lab should have an ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. So, if your lab is around 70 pounds, she should drink 70 ounces of water each day. If you suspect your lab is not drinking enough water, it could lead to skin dehydration, causing increased shedding around your home. You can also flavor the water with bone broth or chicken broth, which can be more enticing than plain water. Giving your lab supplements can also help if your lab sheds excessively, so we always recommend providing them with a good supplement to help make sure they get everything they need. Share on. You might notice that your Labrador puppy is starting to lose a lot of hair. However, there is a good chance you do not have to worry. Labrador puppies usually lose their baby coats when they are months old. They start shedding a lot by this time, but some puppies can start shedding a bit by 3 months old, so it can vary. That is because their fur is falling out faster than it can be replaced. However, that is completely normal. As long as the Labrador puppy is healthy and not stressed, you have nothing to worry about. Additionally, you may notice that your Labrador has subtle changes of color in their coat as their fur falls out and grows, but it varies from each pup. They often lose all of their baby coats a month after they start to shed. By that time, they will have a new adult coat of fur. When puppies are born, they have a puppy coat that is soft and thin. It helps them regulate their own body temperature and protects them from any outside elements. Puppy coats are usually shorter than adult fur. However, their puppy coats are not enough to protect their bodies when they are older. Their adult coats are usually rougher than their baby coats. That is because they grow double coats, which is an essential and helpful trait your Lab has. Labradors have two coats of fur when they are adults. The first coat is coarse and is called the topcoat. The second coat is softer and is called the undercoat. The undercoat can be thick or fine. Labradors have double coats because of their breeding. They are working dogs who hunt and swim. Therefore, they need double coats to protect them from the water and from possible injuries. Dogs cannot sweat. Therefore, they need other ways to keep them warm and cool, which is why some breeds like Labrador Retrievers have double coats. Humans have skin layers, but dogs only have .Therefore, they burn easily, and the guard hairs are their natural sunscreen. As mentioned earlier, double coats help repel water, which keeps their skin dry when they swim. Plus, double coats help your Labrador swim because it does not weigh them down. The fur is practically water repellant, so they will be able to swim without exerting too much effort. As stated earlier, your Labrador will start shedding a lot when they are months old to shed their puppy coat. However, Labradors are notorious for shedding a lot. However, most Labradors will heavily shed at least times a year when they are adults. Since dogs have double coats, their undercoat sheds when it is warm. So, you can expect your Labrador to start shedding a lot when it is spring and summer. They shed their undercoat to prepare their bodies for the warmer months. Can I Shave My Labrador? Absolutely not. First, shaving your Labrador is actually not going to help you deal with the shedding. Your Labrador will grow new hairs, which will be more prickly and painful for both you and them. Those new hairs will fall out, too, so it is not worth the effort. Secondly, you can potentially damage their skin. They do not have any way they can shield their skin from the sun, so they may burn easily. Shaving your Labrador also messes up their temperature regulation. Without their undercoat, they cannot keep hot and cold air away from their skin. Therefore, they may feel extreme temperatures and feel very uncomfortable. Plus, it will be itchy and uncomfortable for your dog to grow new fur after you shave it. Most undercoats will not be the same after you shave it. It will feel prickly when you touch it, and your Labrador will feel very itchy as it grows. Instead of shaving your Labrador , you can use special brushes like a slicker brush to remove their loose undercoat hairs. You can also vacuum your home more regularly to keep it clean. You can brush your Lab a few times a week. However, you may need to brush them times a day during the spring and summer to deal with heavy shedding. To Conclude When you own a Labrador Retriever, a big part of it will be dealing with the fur. While it may be a nuisance, regular grooming and vacuuming can help you deal with the shedding. Post navigation. Keeping your home fur free All Retrievers shed — at times profusely. If you let the hair build up, either on your dog or in your home, it can be quite overwhelming. Coping with Labrador shedding is much easier if you adopt a daily grooming and vacuuming routine. Getting the right tools to help you can really make a difference. Why Do Dogs Shed? Usually in spring and again as winter approaches. During the spring moult, the animal sheds its thick winter coat, and grows a sleek new coat for the summer season. As the temperature falls, the summer coat is shed and replaced by a nice warm winter one. In some animals, the winter coat is even a different color from the summer one, to give the animal camouflage against a very different kind of terrain — think of arctic hares and foxes. But dogs no longer roam the tundra, and battle the elements. Dogs have been living alongside humans for thousands of year. So why does shedding still persist? Those of you that have lived with a Labrador or two, will be smiling at this question. But if you are just starting out on your Labrador adventure, you should know that all Labs do shed some hair, most of the time. And it is something you need to be prepared for. Why does my Labrador shed so much? And while some Labradors are thoughtful enough to shed in a big burst two or even three times a year, many others seem to just shed all year around. This may be connected with the consistent temperature in many modern houses, as dogs that are kennelled often seem to shed in a more seasonal pattern. So why is it, that Labradors shed so much more than some other breeds? The answer lies in your Labradors incredible coat. Underneath that glossy waterproof outer layer, is a dense warm undercoat designed to keep your dog snug while swimming in icy water. This is great for your dog, and partly explains his enthusiasm for swimming at any time of year. People sometimes ask me if a Labrador of one color sheds more than a Labrador of another color. Yellow more than black, black more than chocolate, and so on. It is probable that some Labradors shed more than others. After all, they are all individuals. But whether or not this is linked to color I cannot say. From a personal point of view, I have had labs of all three colors and noticed no real difference. Sometimes one color shows up more in the home than another. It probably depends on what color your carpets are. But essentially black labradors shed, chocolate labradors shed, and yellow Labradors shed too. It is probably worth pointing out at this point, that we need to deal with Labrador shedding in the same way, no matter what color your Labrador is. Home Comforts and Hairy Problems Our bodies, and the bodies of our dogs, evolve beneficial biological systems over thousands of years. It is only recently we have been protected from the seasons with the luxury of air conditioning and central heating. This is a very short period of time in evolutionary terms Evolving new biological systems takes a long time. So dogs still continue to shed because it benefitted their recent ancestors. Especially when you consider that Labradors shed even more than many other breeds of dog. How to Cope with Labrador Shedding I should first say that at the time of writing, there is no pill or potion that you can give your Lab to stop him shedding. The shedding process is entirely natural and normal, if annoying, and there is probably nothing you can or should do, to interfere with it. What you can do however is reduce the impact of a Labrador shedding on your life and home! And when they are not shedding, this is true. However, whenever your Labrador is losing his coat, daily or twice daily grooming is your friend. It will, I promise you, make a massive difference to the quantity of hair in your house. We are talking about a serious dead hair removal process. There are a couple of grooming tools you might like to consider for this purpose. Work from head to tail in firm strokes and watch the mounds of hair gather on the floor. The zoom groom works well for all Labradors, but it can leave a bit of hair behind. And that tool is a Furminator. The Furminator Whether or not this tool suits your dog may depend on his or her individual coat. Labradors really do vary in the way that they moult, and in the thickness of their coats Four year old Tess, pictured here, grows her new coat in, as the old one moults out. Sensible grooming with a Furminator has never revealed bare skin, or done any apparent damage to her coat. All that is stripped out, is soft, dead undercoat. Heaps and heaps and heaps of it. And not only does she feel better for it, so do my carpets. And for some dogs, it is not ideal. Use your furminator carefully Furminators seem to be a bit like marmite. You either love them or hate them. And I love them. They make a huge difference to my dogs and to my house. Remember to use with caution. This is a powerful tool. Can I shave my Labrador? People do occasionally ask me if its OK to shave their Labrador. He could end up with sunburn, he will be unable to control his temperature efficiently, and will be very vulnerable to cuts and injury. Do robot vacuum cleaners pick up dog hair? So I have a robot vacuum cleaner that just potters around for an hour each morning. My elderly robot vacuum cleaner eventually died and I replaced it with a newer model. It has a bigger dustpan than the old one and does a really good job. The battery in mine lasts about an hour and a half which is plenty long enough and I charge it up daily. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. August 30, .Aside from their exercise needs, food preferences, and whether your future doggo will prefer belly rubs or head pats, you might be thinking about their Lab coat. Do you need to brush them daily, weekly, monthly, or practically never? How often do you need to bathe them? And do Labradors shed excessively, or will your home remain forever fur-free? Do Labradors shed? They certainly do! In fact, Labradors are notorious shedders. The reason why Labs shed is all to do with their working past. Originally, Labradors were bred as working dogs. They also assisted with various duties on-board fishing boats. Through lots of time spent outdoors, Labradors developed a special coat that protected them from the cold. The outer layer is coarse and waterproof, while the inner layer is dense, fluffy, and super cosy. The inner layer, known as the undercoat, keeps Labradors warm — especially when swimming in cold water or during rainfall. In short, because Labradors and other double-coated dog breeds have this thick undercoat, they need to get rid of it from time to time to adapt to the changing seasons. This is why Labradors shed so much. When and how much do Labradors shed? Luckily, ongoing shedding is quite manageable. They shed in spring so they can get rid of their dense winter coat and grow a lighter one ahead of summer. They also shed in autumn so they can replace their thin summer coat with a snug winter one. Each shedding season lasts around two to three weeks. During moulting season, Labradors shed a lot. While the amount of shedding can vary between individual dogs, each coat colour tends to shed equally. Do they shed more than other dogs? So if they indeed are big shedders, do Labradors shed more than other breeds? Compared to some, yes, absolutely. Compared to others, the amount of shedding is pretty on par. Generally speaking, dog breeds which shed most have double coats, just like Labs. Not only do double-coated dogs shed year-round, but they also blow their coats up to several times a year to make way for a new coat. Some single-coated dogs can still shed quite a bit. Dog breeds that can shed a lot include:.