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Life Span Did You Know? The Maltipoo is a designer dog breed that originated in the United States and is a cross between a Maltese and a Miniature Poodle. Because it is a mixed dog breed, it is not recognized by the American Kennel Club. It is known for being a good companion dog that is a great family pet and can adapt well to almost any living situation. This designer breed has an affectionate, gentle nature and a fun-loving, charming personality. Maltipoos tends to be open and friendly. They get along well with children, other pets, other dogs, and strangers. They can be prone to barking, which makes them an alert watchdog. Socialization and training early on can help you direct the urge to bark towards more positive outlets and help your dog understand what they should bark at and what is okay for them to ignore. The Maltipoo is a devoted dog that loves attention and lots of cuddles. Maltipoos are highly adaptable. They do well in any family type, from large families to single owners and everything between. They get along well with children, but younger children should be closely supervised and taught early on how to interact appropriately with a dog. Your Maltipoo can be injured easily by a falling toddler or accidental rough play. The Maltipoo can adapt well to any living situation. They are not overwhelmed by large homes and yards and fit right in with apartment living. They crave attention and love being around their humans, so they should not be left alone for long periods of time. They also adapt well to a variety of climates. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but they can usually handle a wider variety of temperatures than other small dog breeds. Maltipoos are generally healthy dogs. As with all breeds, even crossbreeds, there are some health conditions to be aware of. Some of these include epilepsy, patellar luxation, and progressive retinal atrophy. Health clearances and DNA test results for the parents can help to allay any concerns about health conditions. Maltipoos are a great fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They are intelligent and highly trainable. They learn quickly and are eager to please their owners. Because they are sensitive, Maltipoos do not respond well to harsh tones or scolding. They respond best to training that stays positive and uses rewards, praise, and play. Because both of the parent breeds are considered low or non-shedding, the Maltipoo will often also have a low or non-shedding hypoallergenic coat. Their coat tends to be fluffy and soft. The length can range from medium to long and the type can be slightly wavy or curly. They do need to be brushed daily and bathed monthly to keep their coat healthy, clean, and free of tangles. Professional grooming or clipping the coat a few times a year can also help keep your Maltipoo cool in the summer and their coat looking good year-round. Their nails should be trimmed once or twice a month as needed and their teeth should be brushed regularly. A few times a week is usually sufficient to keep tartar buildup at bay and reduce the risk of dental problems like tooth decay or gum disease, but brushing once a day is ideal. Get your puppy used to having their paws, ears, and mouth handled early on to ensure regular grooming and vet exams are much easier when they are older. The Maltipoo has a moderate activity level. Daily exercise with a few walks, some running in the yard, a game of fetch, or a trip to the dog park will ensure your Maltipoo gets plenty of exercise. A Maltipoo usually stands 8 to 14 inches tall and weighs between 5 and 20 pounds. Looking at the size of the parents will often give you a good idea of the size your Maltipoo puppy might become as they grow. This designer dog breed generally lives for 10 to 13 years. The Maltipoo tends to maintain a puppy-like appearance and behavior throughout their life. Featured Maltipoo Article. Engraving by William Turner Davey , , from Landseer's painting The Lion Dog of Malta Long-haired Maltese groomed for showing Maltese dog refers both to an ancient variety of dwarf canine from Italy [1] and generally associated also with the island of Malta , and to a modern breed of dog in the toy group. The contemporary variety is genetically related to the Bichon , Bolognese , and Havanese breeds. Nicholas Cutillo suggested that Maltese dogs might descend from spitz-type canines , and that the ancient variety probably was similar to the latter Pomeranian breeds with their short snout, pricked ears, and bulbous heads. Maltese dogs in antiquity[ edit ] The old variety of Maltese appears to have been the most common or favourite pet, or certainly household dog, in antiquity. The uncertainty continues, but recent scholarship generally supports the identification with Malta. Envious of the spoiling attentions lavished on the pup, the ass tries to frolic and be winsome also, in order to enter his master's graces and be treated kindly, only to be beaten off and tethered to its manger. One feature he identifies with this character type is that if his pet dog dies he will erect a memorial slab commemorating his "scion of Melita. During the first century, the Roman poet Martial wrote descriptive verses to a lap dog named "Issa" owned by his friend Publius. The Maltese and similar breeds such as the Havanese, Bichon and Bolognese, are indeed related, perhaps through a common ancestor resulting from a severe bottleneck when a handful of petite canine varieties began to be selected for mating around two centuries ago. A variation of the latter was the Blenheim toy dog, bred by the Marlborough family , with its distinctive white and chestnut mantle. These had no known connection to that island, and one of the breeders, T. Lukey, associated with the English mastiff , stated that his own Maltese strain was imported from the Manilla Islands in .Mandeville, took first prize and continued to do so in subsequent years. By the s, this registry counted roughly 50 dogs in its pedigree table. March 15, Table of Contents Maltipoos — Adorable designer pups Maltipoos are dogs that result from crossing a Miniature or Toy Poodle with a Maltese. The Maltipoo has yet to be recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club and other organizations across the world. Most dogs have a fluffy and wool-like coat, though, which is one of the features they are most appreciated for. How big does a Maltipoo get? This is a relatively small breed. Adults get to a height that ranges from 10 to 12 inches, depending on their gender and genetic inheritance. Most have a weight between 10 and 20 pounds, also depending on their gender, whether they were spayed or neutered, and if their parents were smaller or larger. If you are looking for an especially small Maltipoo, you should pick a female and also ask your breeder for a cross of two smaller parents. If you are looking for a larger dog however, make sure to pick a male puppies from parents that are on the larger side. Genetics are strong when it comes to size! Temperament The best thing about a Maltipoo is that it usually inherits the personality of its parents. However, like any other breed, whether mixed or not, this one needs to be socialized as early as possible. Another Maltipoo personality trait that dog owners love is that they can be quite affectionate. They do tend to suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for many hours during the day, so if you tend to be away from home for more than 10 hours on a daily basis, this might not be the right dog for you. Are Maltipoos easy to potty train? Most Maltipoos are very easy to train, especially if some of the training was done by the breeder. Praise and repetitive routines offer the best results when it comes to potty training a Maltipoo. For more information on house training your Maltipoo, talk to an experienced trainer. Is a Maltipoo a good dog? Most dog parents seem to agree that Maltipoos make not good, but great dogs. On top of everything, a Maltipoo maintains their puppy temperament even in their senior years, which can be very refreshing. Are Maltipoos barkers? Some Maltipoos can cause problems if they are adopted from inexperienced or irresponsible breeders. All puppies have to be trained to some extent in order to maintain good behavior, especially in relation to other animals and people. As we previously mentioned, they do not do well when they spend a lot of time alone. Unfortunately, that can be a problem for most pet owners unless they live in a house and have a yard where the dog can have some fun while they are away. On the other hand, they cannot be considered a hypoallergenic dog breed. They do shed several times a year, and their coat should be groomed every months depending on whether it is curly or not. Some Maltipoos have fluffy or curly hair around their eyes, so the latter can sometimes get irritated. If you ever try to cut some of the fur around the eyes, make sure to cover them with your hand first. Others prefer a lamb cut or a fancier style such as the Miami cut. Do Maltipoos have health problems? Unfortunately, the answer to this question is yes.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. White Labradors are a very attractive and distinctive looking dog. But are White Labradors really Labradors? Are they healthy and happy pooches or does their pale color result in health problems? Read on to learn everything you need to know about these wonderful dogs and why most of them make excellent family pets or show pooches. He did have some qualities that I thought were different from the many Labs I raised over the years, but I would not consider it outside the norm for a Labrador Retriever. Different Types Of White Labradors On the most basic level, white Labradors are Labradors that have a coat that is white, or almost white, in color. But their coat takes on this unusual pigment for a Labrador for a number of different reasons. These dogs are the same as all other Labs; it is just that both of their parents had the right genes to give them a coat that approaches white. They will have the same black or brown nose and eyes as other Labs, as well as the same intelligence and temperament. They will also face the same health risks, but no additional ones due to the color of their coat. Yellow Labradors come in a range of colors, from fox red, to golden, to cream, and of course, white. White is just another natural variation within the spectrum. White Labrador dogs are usually specifically created by breeders, who have been broadening the color range of Yellow Labradors for decades in order to widen their market. White Labradors are more likely to be English Labradors than American Labradors because of the history of the breeding. This means they will also have the stockier, broader look of the English Lab. Albino Labradors Unlike Yellow Labradors with a white coat, which are healthy dogs that do not differ from their darker colored brothers and sisters, some White Labradors are the result of albinism. This is a genetic condition universal throughout the animal kingdom, but rare in dogs, affecting maybe one in every 20, The result is a pooch that has white hair and extremely pale skin. They are usually easily distinguishable from Yellow Labs that are white as they will also lack pigment in their eyes and nose. Their eyes are often a distinctive red color, though they can also be blue. Albino Labradors often develop health problems as a result of their lack of pigmentation. They are very susceptible to sun damage, which can easily result in tumors and skin cancer. Their eyes are also very sensitive to the sun and can easily become damaged. They are also often born blind or suffer from eye deformities. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish these pups from albino dogs, but they will have normal eye color. This condition is also relatively rare among Labradors, as it is a recessive trait. It can come with similar health concerns as the areas of the skin that lack pigment can also be easily damaged by the sun. But they are not at the same risk as far as the eyes are concerned. Silver Labrador White Labradors should also not be confused with Silver Labradors , which occurs as a result of the dilution of the darker pigment of black or brown dogs. They can be registered with the Kennel Club as Chocolate Labradors, but they are excluded from shows. But just like Yellow Labradors with a white coat, these Chocolate Labradors with a silver coat are natural within the color range of Labradors and they do not have different personality traits or health conditions as the result of the color of their coat. Considering this, and the fact that White Labradors are relatively rare among Yellow Labradors, they are not always easy to come across. To find a White Labrador, you will need to speak with a breeder that has chosen color as one of the traits for which they are controlling. However, it is not advisable to work with a breeder who is only or primarily controlling for color, as health and temperament are still more important features in a dog than color. Bear in mind that English Labs look different; they tend to be stockier and broader in the chest and face. They also have different personalities. They tend to be more playful and silly, but have less energy. They have become very popular dogs on the show circuit, while their silly and friendly personality makes them great family pets. It can be difficult to tell if a Lab will grow to be a true White Lab when they are a puppy, as lots of Yellow Labradors are born with a very pale coat, which gets darker as they age. Of course, while seeking out a white Yellow Labrador might be something you want, seeking out an Albino Lab or even a Leucistic Lab is not advisable because of the related health conditions. However, that is not to say there are not Albino Labs out there that need someone to adopt them and give them a loving home. American Or English Labrador? As seeking out a White Labrador probably means choosing between an American and an English Labrador , it is worth considering the differences between the two. Both dogs are friendly, good-natured, and companionable, and also intelligent and highly trainable. This is why they make excellent companion dogs and working dogs. But both were originally bred as retrievers. American Labs are those that have been bred for working, while English Labradors have been bred for conformation, which means they have been bred to more exactly align with the definition of the species, which is why they are an excellent choice for show dogs. They are called English Labradors because they are significantly more common in the UK. Meanwhile, you guessed it, the working-style Labrador is more common in the USA. But, while this is how the breeds are characterized, this is far from prescriptive, and you will often encounter English Labs as working dogs and American Labs competing in shows. So, these are not strict definitions but rather a useful guide to help you distinguish between the two extremes of the breed. They are all registered as Labrador Retrievers with the Kennel Club. That said, there are some key differences to look out for. American Labs are usually a bit taller, ranging from .This height difference results because American Labs tend to have longer legs, while English Labs are stockier. But American Labs are also heavier than their English brothers and sisters, ranging from 70 to pounds, while English Labs are usually between 60 and 85 pounds. The appearance of the two dogs is also different. English Labs tend to look heavier and more substantial, with a barrel chest. They also have a wider head and a fuller face with a shorter muzzle. The neck is thicker, and so is their coat so they also shed a bit more. American Labs also tend to have more energy than English Labs, and as a result, it is often thought a firmer hand is needed to keep American Labs under control. For this reason, they are often considered better as working dogs, and when they move into the home, they need a very active family. Because English Labs are considered calmer and quieter, they are more versatile as a family dog and also easier to train for shows. I would consider him an American Lab based on looks although his breeder said he had both American and English in his ancestry. His energy level was closer to that of an American Lab, but his goofy temperament more closely resembled an English Lab. Yes, White Labradors are very rare. Albinism is extremely rare in dogs, affecting maybe one in every 20, White Labradors that are pale Yellow Labradors are also rare. White Labs are at the extreme color range available for these pooches, and it is required that both parents have and pass on the genes that allow for this extremely light color. Exactly how big your Labrador will get depends on a lot of things, but color is not one of them. As a general rule, if your White Labrador is an American Labrador, you can expect them to weigh between 70 and pounds. English Labradors, while they look stockier, tend to be lighter, between 60 and 85 pounds, They also tend to be smaller than their American brothers and sisters. A healthy White Labrador will have the same life expectancy as the majority of Labrador Retrievers, so about 12 years. However, White Labradors that are Albino will have a significantly lower life expectancy, as they are much more likely to develop serious medical conditions, such as skin cancer and tumors. Are White Labradors Purebred? Yes, White Labradors are purebred dogs within the Yellow Labrador Retriever category, and they can be registered for shows and with the Kennel Association as Yellow Labradors. Do White Labradors Shed? All Labradors shed , and they tend to shed a lot. They have a double coat, which means they have a lot of hair to leave behind. It can be especially challenging in the shedding season, which is Spring and Fall. So, yes, you will be finding those beautiful white hairs all over your home. He definitely shed more than any other dog, Lab or otherwise that we had in our home. Do White Labradors Turn Yellow? Some of the hair of a White Labrador, especially around the tips of the ears, can turn yellow with sun exposure. In addition, many Yellow Labradors may appear white when they are born, but their hair will darken over the first few months of their life. So, you cannot always tell if a Labrador will be white during the first few months of their lives. Final Thoughts When breeders refer to a White Labrador, they are referring to a Yellow Labrador that has been specifically bred to have very pale fur. This is more common among English Labs than American Labs, but they are a naturally occurring phenomenon that occurs from the breeding process. These dogs share all the same wonderful traits as other Labradors. They are friendly and intelligent, and they make excellent family dogs, working dogs, and show dogs. However, these White Labs should not be confused with Albino Labs or Leucistic Labs, which are dogs with rare genetic conditions, meaning they lack pigment in their skin. These dogs can suffer from serious health issues as a result of sun exposure. While there are dogs out there of this variety that need a loving place to call home, it is not the same as adopting a White Labrador. They do need special care and attention. The first time Archer met his new companion was also the first time the little girl ever spoke. Do you have any experience with White Labradors? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. We specialize in breeding white labrador puppies that are socialized, free of hereditary health problems, well-exercised on 12 fenced acres, intelligent, and conform to the AKC Breed Standard. Our lab puppies are part of our family and live in a loving, inclusive, intellectually stimulating environment. All lab puppies are born in our home and remain there the eight weeks they are here at Bullis Lake. Our puppies are never caged. Their area is large and they can freely run and play with their littermates. His name is Luke! We just wanted to share a recent photo of our fifth family member. He is the most wonderful dog and continues to be incredibly healthy with no end of energy! People are shocked when they learn how old he is. He gives this family so much pleasure and joy! Bullis Lake Labradors guarantees all puppies with our Health Guarantee. Bullis Lake Labradors has veterinarians on call when the need arises. You are purchasing your next family member from a responsible, reputable breeder. We love to receive emails and pictures of our puppies as they grow. Many of our buyers become friends. Yellow Labradors have always come in a range of shades. This range has been deliberately broadened in recent years through selective breeding of more muted tones. But despite this, there are only three recognised colors of Labradors — black , chocolate and yellow. Yellow Labs can now be commonly seen ranging from darkest rich fox red, through shades of golden, pale yellow, cream and even white. White Labs and fox red Labs are both classified as yellow Labs. Even though the hues look very different, they are just variations of the same base color. Changes in Trends What is considered desirable or fashionable changes from one decade to the next. And certainly differs between the show and working communities of Labrador breeders. Currently, working or American Labradors prefer the darker shades of yellow, and English Labradors are often much paler. English Labs differ from American or Working bred Labs quite dramatically in terms of their shape and personalities. In general your white English Labrador will be fun loving, a little silly and very sociable with people and other dogs. He might take a little longer to mature than his working bred cousins and may have less of a hyped up drive to retrieve or run around all day. A white English Lab will also often have a broader chest and head, as well as slightly shorter legs. The Albino Labrador Albinism is an interesting trait that is found throughout the animal kingdom. It is caused by a gene which switches off coloring. Albino Labs will have white hair or fur, and pale skin. They may also have red eyes, although very pale blue eyes can also be seen in some albinos when some pigmentation remains. True albinism in dogs is rare, and it is not a desirable trait as unfortunately it comes with health problems. Albino Lab Health Albino Labs can suffer from sensitive skin. This is an issue that leaves them particularly vulnerable to sun and heat damage. Not only can an albino Lab be easily sunburnt, the sun can also damage his eyes. This vulnerability can make these dogs prone to tumors and skin cancer. Many Albino dogs are born blind, or suffer from eye deformities. Fortunately, a white Lab is almost always not actually an albino Lab. It is actually just a very pale version of a yellow Labrador. White Labrador Retrievers will have pigmented noses and dark eyes, as well as distinctive white fur. Their fur will almost always contain touches of cream or yellow, especially around the ears. A white Lab puppy will often have yellow ears. Finding a White Labrador Puppy White Lab puppies will come from parents who have the genes for yellow coat color, and who have been selectively bred to have the palest version of this color. In a litter of puppies the shades of color can range just as dramatically as they do in adulthood. Some pups can look far more orange and others will be at the paler end. Puppy coats will also change color as they grow. So white Lab puppies may appear more or less pale when they mature. Even if you love white Labradors, remember that the most important thing about a puppy is their personality and their health. As with any puppy search, the way to find a white Lab puppy is to look for a litter of Labradors bred in a way that is appropriate for the breed. White Labrador Retriever Breeders If white Lab puppies appeal to you, then make sure that the breeder has not focused on color to the detriment of health or temperament. Color should always be a secondary consideration when breeding a litter or choosing your puppy. First make sure that all of the other boxes are ticked, and that you are happy with your breeder. Make sure both parents are fully health tested. For Labradors this will mean low hip and elbow scores, and clear eye tests as a minimum. Think of the Type of Labrador If you want a pup to show in the ring, then go to an established show breeder who will be able to help you select the best pup for your purpose. If you are looking for a family pet, make sure both parents are treasured members of the family too. When buying any Labrador puppy, making sure the breeder is a good breeder is key. Here is some more information on how to find a good breeder, for any color of Labrador. The main ones which Labrador owners deal with are regarding potty training and biting. You can find lots of information on dealing with both of these common issues in our extensive Puppies Section. Bringing a new puppy home is a big decision. If you have any doubts about whether you are ready for a Labrador check out this article to help make the right choice. Now taking deposits for Puppies. Contact us to learn more, meet our parents, and reserve your puppy! Your Labrador Breeder in Arizona with a focus on Service Service Our puppy program provides a great foundation to puppies destined for service work. Many of our puppies have gone on to become excellent service dogs. We treat all of our puppies as though they are training for therapy work. This makes a great puppy for any use! I would love to introduce you to my dogs and our special puppy program! Please contact me for more information. Even if your family does not have a special need for Therapy or Service work, the preparation we provide all of our puppies makes for an excellent family pet. Working We have prepared many puppies that went on to work-life. Not every puppy succeeds at work-life training, but our puppies are given the best chance starting life in our Puppy Program. Service Our puppy program provides a great foundation to puppies destined for service work. Family Dog Our puppies make excellent family dogs. Working We have prepared many puppies for work-life. Our puppies are well prepared for their future careers. Labs are intelligent dogs and they love to have a purpose. This makes them ideal for many types of work. Thank you for trusting me and for the kind words… What an amazing experience! Sandy has developed a wonderful program that allowed our family to bond with and work with our puppy prior to bringing him home. The education and training we received has been invaluable. She genuinely cares about her pups and the product is well behaved, well adjusted, healthy and happy puppies… Our Nash is gorgeous, smart, and healthy. We cannot give a higher praise to Sandy and her entire process of placing these beautiful pups. My Lab Puppies is a breeder we recommend to all our family and friends. We have 2, Momo is a male we brought home in February .He is now 14 months old. They are now inseparable. Extremely intelligent, lovable, trainable, and kind. Not to mention beautiful. Even my old rescue terrier loves them…Sandy is a pro. No bones about it. Jane Glenn Outstanding experience! My wife researched many dog breeders before deciding this was the breeder of choice. He is turning out to be such a smart and sweet boy—he wins friends every where he goes. Sandy has been great with support and training help. You can tell she cares about breeding for temperament and with the temperament of the parents both therapy pets working with special needs children , what a great guy he is turning out to be! Wendy Holland.

Things to do with your English Bulldog Texas is a great place to live with an English bulldog. With its beautiful scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Texas is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. The park is home to a variety of landscapes, including mountains, canyons, and deserts. Your English bulldog will love exploring the park and meeting new friends. Your English bulldog will love exploring the woods and getting some exercise. Your English bulldog will love spending time outdoors and making new friends. The park is home to the Guadalupe Peak, which is the highest point in Texas. The garden is home to a variety of plants and flowers from all over the world. Your English bulldog will love exploring the garden and meeting new friends. Your English bulldog will love getting some fresh air and seeing the sights from a different perspective. Texas is a great place to live with an English bulldog. 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 Texas? 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. Questions about Bulldog puppies for sale in Dallas TX? We have answers. How much are Bulldog puppies for sale in Dallas TX? The price of each Bulldog for sale in Dallas depends on a few different things. First, the experience and reputation of Dallas Bulldog breeders will affect how much they charge for their pups. Secondly, the pups size and coat and eye color will also play a part. What if there are no Bulldog breeders in Dallas with available pups? At Uptown, our network of businesses is nationwide, meaning you can easily look for your perfect pup further afield. How do you screen Bulldog breeders Dallas? We take screening new applicants to the Uptown network extremely seriously. How is Uptown Puppies different from any other network with Bulldog puppies Dallas? The puppies they advertise are often sickly as a result. Puppy mills are awful places where the health and welfare of dogs is sacrificed in order to make a quick buck. Puppies born in mills are at a far higher risk of developing behavioral problems or genetic health conditions, which can lead to expensive veterinary bills. We refuse to work with puppy mills, ever. Are there any Bulldog puppies for sale Dallas now? Bulldogs are actually one of the most popular breeds in the United States, so you should find plenty of Dallas Bulldogs for sale here on Uptown right now. So what are you waiting for? What kind of dogs are Bulldogs? Bulldogs were bred to drive cattle as well as being used for an unpleasant sport which involved them being pitted against a bull in the name of sport. The Dallas Bulldog for sale on Uptown will be far happier to curl up on your couch for a nap! How big are Bulldogs? While these pups might be relatively short, they sure are chunky! The average Bulldog Dallas will mature to be between inches tall, but they can weigh up to 50 pounds! Are Bulldogs easy to train? The Bulldog has a sweet personality, and they love to make their owners happy. This of course makes them a pleasure to train! Any Bulldog for sale in Dallas will benefit from some puppy training classes to help you understand how to get the best from your training sessions, but you can look forward to a wonderful relationship with these happy pups. What are the common health problems with Bulldogs? The Bulldogs flat face does mean they can suffer from breathing difficulties in warmer weather. Take extra care not to over-exercise your Bulldog pup on hot days, and consider using an air-conditioner to keep them comfortable. Choosing a pup from an experienced breeder on Uptown will help minimize the risk of any extreme health problems. Why adopt WB English Bulldogs? Travel Nanny Services Optional As experienced and reputable breeders; at WB English Bulldogs, we understand that the transportation of your English Bulldog puppy is one of the most important things. British Bulldogs Breeder in Dallas since We at WB English bulldogs take into consideration that all puppies we place in new homes must have excellent conformation, good health and amazing temperament. Microchip ID Optional We offer a more secure form of identification for your pet that is safer and extremely more effective than common pet tags. Our happy customers who chose our in cabin nanny services! English Bulldogs stand out for their unique appearance combined with a heart of gold. Their wrinkled face, stout stature, and gentle eyes are not just adorable but also exude their loving nature. How big do English Bulldogs get when they grow up? English Bulldogs, though compact, have a sturdy and muscular build. Males typically weigh between lbs, while females usually range from lbs when fully mature. Their size makes them suitable for both apartment living and homes with yards. Are English Bulldogs good with children and other pets? English Bulldogs are renowned for their gentle, patient nature, especially with children. They often become protective of younger family members and coexist harmoniously with other pets. How often do English Bulldogs need exercise? A daily walk of about minutes helps maintain their health, manage their weight, and keeps them mentally stimulated. Play sessions in a fenced yard or indoors are also appreciated! Are English Bulldogs easy to train? English Bulldogs have an inherent eagerness to please their owners, making training a rewarding experience for both parties. With consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement techniques, they can learn commands, tricks, and good behaviors, enhancing your bond with them. English Bulldogs and British Bulldogs are the same? The breed is commonly known as the Bulldog. How to buy an English Bulldog puppie? Browse Our Selection: Explore our website to view available puppies. Need More Information? Our team is here to provide all the information you need to make an informed decision. Prepare for Your Puppy: Once your purchase is complete, ensure you have all the essentials ready at home for your new furry friend, from food to a cozy sleeping area. Feel free to reach out if you have questions about care, feeding, or health concerns. Thank you for choosing WB English Bulldogs. Do you ship to other cities in the USA or to other parts of the world? Yes, WB English bulldogs offers shipping services for their English bulldog puppies to any major city within the United States. They ensure that transportation considerations, including breed conformation and temperatures, are taken into account before arranging the transportation of the puppy. So, distance is not a barrier for those looking to get their dream puppy from WB English bulldogs. If there are any further questions or concerns about shipping methods or in-person pickups, the breeder encourages prospective customers to reach out to them directly via their provided phone number. English Bulldogs are medium-sized, robust, and muscular dogs. Adult male English Bulldogs typically weigh between pounds kg , while adult females usually weigh around pounds kg. In terms of height, English Bulldogs generally stand about inches cm tall at the shoulder. Regular check-ups and a balanced diet can help ensure that an English Bulldog grows to its optimal size and maintains a healthy weight. English Bulldogs are sturdy and muscular canines. Typically, adult male English Bulldogs weigh between pounds kg , while adult females tend to weigh around pounds kg. However, individual weights can vary based on factors like genetics, diet, and health. Our Blog.

There are just two purebred Boxer colors: fawn, and brindle—with or without white markings. Different levels of these pigments determine the different colors. For example, black can produce a grey or brown coat, and red can produce a yellow or cream coat. Dogs have 8 genes that determine coat color. Each one is responsible for different types of color. Examples: an agouti gene creates coat patterns. What about the fawn color? How do experts define fawn coat color in dogs? Fawn Coat Color Boxers have variations of the red coat color pigment, not the black. The red-based fawn coloring can range all the way from light tan to dark mahogany. Brindle is dominant over fawn, but the combination of genes in an individual puppy determines its coloring. As with fawn vs. Certain colors can be linked to health conditions. The most common relationship most people know about is white color and deafness. White color and hereditary deafness are linked in many animals. This is because lack of pigment is genetically connected to inner ear degeneration. Some dog breeds, such as the Dalmatian, are more prone to hereditary deafness than others. What about a flashy fawn Boxer dog with a large amount of white coloring? Deafness Any dog, regardless of breed or color, can be born deaf or become deaf later in life. Breeds with a high rate of congenital deafness often have a significant amount of white coat coloring, but color is not the only cause of deafness. Boxers in general do not have a high incidence of deafness. If a Boxer has a large amount of white, especially on the head, then the risk for deafness does increase somewhat. What about temperament? Boxers are a much-loved breed with a long and interesting history. The Boxer dog we know today was first developed in the s in Germany. The ancestry of the Boxer can be traced to a very old breed called the Bullenbeisser bull biter. The Bullenbeisser was crossed with smaller dogs to create the modern Boxer. Boxers belong to the working dog group and have been used as guard dogs, military dogs, and even guide dogs for the blind. How large will your fawn Boxer dog get? Boxer Description The Boxer is a sleek and athletic medium sized dog. An adult male boxer weighs between 65 and 80 pounds. The breed standard calls for females to weigh about 15 pounds less than males. The Boxer has a distinctive head with an alert and intelligent face. Both the fawn and brindle Boxer dogs have short, smooth coats that require minimal grooming. Boxer Personality and Training As a working dog breed, the fawn Boxer dog has an alert and intelligent nature with a strong work ethic and a love of exercise and activity. Experts recommend that you enroll your Boxer in formal puppy training classes and socialize your dog around other dogs, animals, and people. As a working breed, Boxers enjoy stimulating and interactive organized activities like agility and obedience trials, sheep herding, and lure coursing. Boxers also make excellent therapy dogs. Boxer Health We talked about a slight risk for hereditary deafness in white Boxer dogs. What about the fawn Boxer dog? While there are no known health issues connected to the fawn coat color, there are a few inherited health conditions common to fawn and brindle boxers. Like many dog breeds, Boxers can be prone to the joint conditions hip and elbow dysplasia. Dysplasia is a joint deformity that can cause chronic pain in your Boxer. Boxers can also be prone to two genetic heart conditions: aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy is an electrical conduction disorder that causes the heart to beat erratically and can also be life threatening. Other issues Boxers can also be at risk for certain kinds of cancers, thyroid problems, and a neurological condition called degenerative myelopathy. While Boxers can be prone to some potentially serious inherited health conditions. The good news is that there are health tests including genetic health tests for many of them. But before you fall in love with a particular puppy, make sure to choose a responsible breeder who follows the health testing guidelines outlined by the official breed club. Boxer health tests can take the form of blood and DNA tests, X-rays, and heart monitoring and echocardiograms. Health testing information should also be certified by an official canine health clearinghouse like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. A healthy puppy should have clear eyes, clean ears and nose, a shiny coat, and well-formed stools. Boxers are one of the most popular dog breeds, and for good reason! They are loyal, energetic, friendly, intelligent, and brave. The Boxer is a handsome dog breed and fans can have definite preferences for what their Boxer should look like. The fawn Boxer dog can be solid colored or fawn and white. The fawn coloring can vary from light to dark and the amount of white can vary as well. Remember to take your new best friend to puppy kindergarten to ensure that your dog is well trained and socialized. Already have a fawn Boxer dog? Tell us about your Boxer in the comments! References and Resources Strain, G. The Genetics of Deafness in Domestic Animals. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, .American Kennel Club. Hip Dysplasia. Veterinary Specialty Hospital. Tou, S. Aortic Stenosis. Merck Veterinary Manual. Wallner, W. Boxer Cardiomyopathy. American Boxer Club. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article.

All of these amazing GSD's arrived at MOGS with some rough edges, but have worked really hard and are ready to take the next steps in the rehab process - landing in their forever home! If you have a love for GSD's, strong canine leadership skills, experience with handling lack of confidence and poor socialization levels, and have room in your heart and home, read on and find your hidden gem today! Baron and Brandi have lived in a home prior to MOGS, but were mainly outdoor dogs, so need an owner who can be patient and teach them good indoor dog manners. Prior owners report they lived safely with young children. Brandi is the more social of the pair, and loves everyone. Baron is somewhat more shy and requires measured intros to both people and other dogs. Once Alma knows and trusts a person, she is super-loving, attention-seeking, and wants to be with them every minute that she can. She is very food motivated, really smart, and wants to please [most of the time ]. She is working on basic obedience, but like a true GSD, can be stubborn. She is housebroken, crate-trained and can be left unsupervised for brief periods of time in the home, as long as her person is home as well. Alma is a true alpha, dominant female with other dogs, and can sometimes be very intense. She can be an only-pet, but has also done with in small play groups with submissive, younger males and females. She cannot be placed with other dominant dogs, and has a small-prey drive, so no cats. She can sometimes be kennel reactive when she is crated and hassled by another dog that she doesn't like in her current foster home [dominant temperament male]. Posie is typically a gentle girl with her handlers in boarding, with a soft mouth for treats, and an affectionate, cuddly personality. Posie does have a high small prey drive, and cannot be around either small dogs or cats. She does struggle with some issues of selective reactivity, and would prefer to be in an only pet home. If he knows you he will want your attention and he will bug you until you give it to him. He wants to be a lap dog as well. Colby is a happy boy, he just wants to enjoy his home and all the thing he loves, food, his ball, his Buffalo horns, and hanging with his people. Because he is tentative with new people and dogs, he would not be a good candidate for dog parks, doggy day care, Home Depot visits or camping. Colby needs a home with no cats, but he has been in a household with a small dog and did very well. She has beauty radiating off of her from every angle. Bonnie has gorgeous crystal blue captivating eyes that are beyond velveteen rare. Baby Bonnie is truly a once in lifetime German Shepherd. We frequently save Black German Shepherds. In fact every month we meet people who are looking specially for a Black German Shepherd Dog. To help someone adopt a Black German Shepherd we evaluate their temperament and then place them in a loving foster home. Every month we meet a family that is looking for this most beautiful of dogs. Probably the main reason we are involved in Black German Shepherd Adoption is that we love the breed. Over one hundred years later the German Shepherd is one of the most popular dogs because of their intelligence, loyalty, trainability and strength. With the right owners they are magnificent family dogs. They are active dogs that need attention and a consistent owner. If you do right by your German Shepherd you will rewarded with the loyalty of one of the most amazing dogs. Our team has saved thousands of dogs over many years. Like you, we love German Shepherds. We are proud that none of our dogs go to kennels and that we can place them all in loving foster homes before they go to their forever homes with their new family. However, we also have volunteers on the Peninsula and South Bay. By considering a Black German Shepherd Adoption you are saving a life. Sadly, there are some unscrupulous breeders causing many to be unwanted and abandoned and that is where we and you come in. Thank you for thinking about Black German Shepherd Adoption. We love it when a family does adopt a Black German Shepherds, they have a very distinctive look. For the complete list please see our German Shepherd Breeders Nearby page. German Shepherds are known to not only be very intelligent dogs but also one of the most loyal breeds available. They do well with families as long as they receive enough exercise and activity each day. They also make great guard dogs because of their size and demeanor. Yes, German Shepherds are known for being very good around children and other animals if they have been raised around them since they were young. However, you should still teach your children how to properly interact with your dog. The life span for a German Shepherd is typically 10 — 12 years. This can vary depending on their line and genetics, but they are known to be a healthy breed in general. Price will depend on the bloodline, lines, and if the puppy is registered. Prices will vary depending on the breeder so it is important that you do your research before purchasing a puppy. Also, be sure to ask questions about the health of the parents and puppies. A reputable breeder will be more than happy to answer any questions you have. A responsible breeder will not only have healthy puppies but will also be happy to answer any questions you may have. Some things you may want to look for when finding a responsible breeder include: Reputable breeders will often be members of the American Kennel Club AKC or another national breed club. They should have extensive knowledge about the breed and be able to provide documentation certifying the health of the parents and puppies. Ask to see the parents of the puppies and how they interact with their children and other animals. The breeder should screen potential buyers to ensure that the puppy is going to a good home. Their puppies should be well socialized and have been raised in a home environment. If you cannot find a responsible breeder in your area, there are many rescue organizations that may have German Shepherds available for adoption. This way, you can be sure that they are up to your standards and expectations. Visiting your breeder in person will also give you a chance to meet the parents of the puppies and see how they interact with their children and other animals. A reputable breeder will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. They should also have extensive knowledge about the breed and be able to provide documentation certifying the health of the parents and puppies. When looking for a German Shepherd Puppy for Sale in Kansas, it is important to do your research and find a reputable breeder. A responsible breeder will be more than happy to provide you with the contact information of some of their previous buyers. These people can tell you firsthand about their experience with the breeder and whether or not they would recommend them. A reputable breeder will be more than happy to provide you with contact information for past customers. This way, you can ask them about their experience with the breeder and the quality of the puppies. They should also be able to tell you about the health of the parents and puppies. If you are unable to find a responsible breeder in your area, there are many rescue organizations that may have German Shepherds available for adoption. A reputable breeder will also screen potential buyers to ensure that the puppy is going to a good home. A responsible breeder should also have a good veterinarian that they use. They will be able to provide documentation certifying the health of the puppies and their parents. You can ask them for any records they might have if possible. Make sure to ask plenty of questions about the health of the puppies and their parents. If you are not comfortable with the answers you are getting, it may be best to look elsewhere for your new furry family member. A responsible breeder should have a good relationship with their veterinarian and be able to provide documentation certifying the health of their puppies and their parents. Some signs that a breeder may not be reputable include selling puppies through classified ads or pet stores, refusing to provide health clearances or pedigrees for their dogs, and having a high number of dogs in poor condition. If you are considering purchasing a German shepherd puppy, be sure to ask the breeder for health clearances and pedigrees for both the parents of the puppy. You should also visit the breeding facility to ensure that the conditions are appropriate and that the puppies appear healthy. It is also important to consult with other German shepherd owners in your area to get recommendations for good breeders. By being aware of the signs of an unethical German shepherd dog breeder in Kansas, you can avoid supporting this cruel industry and help to reduce the number of dogs that are bred in poor conditions. Well, this might be true if you are looking for healthy puppies. If you go through a breeder who cares about the future well-being of his puppies, he will make sure that they are all in perfect health and can grow up without developing any health problems. Some breeders might have a list of health problems that their puppies are prone to, while others might not have any specific information about this topic. Some tips for potty training your new puppy include: Take him outside frequently, especially after meals and naps Reward him with treats and praise when he goes to the bathroom in the right spot Correct him firmly but never harshly when he makes a mistake Be patient — it may take several weeks or even months for your puppy to fully potty train Hire a dog walker or take your puppy out during the day if you plan on being gone for long periods of time If you follow these tips, you should be able to potty train your German Shepherd with no problem. All it takes is some patience and consistency. Dogs are pack animals who need lots of love and attention from other members of their pack which includes humans and other animals. This means taking him out and exposing him to as many different people, places, and animals as possible. While most puppies are gentle and loving around kids, there is always the potential for accidents to happen. Congratulations and good luck on the hunt for your new German Shepherd puppy. Steve is passionate about dogs and owns a french bulldog. Are you searching for a German Shepherd rescue in Missouri to adopt or foster a dog? We made that easy for you by creating a detailed description of each rescue. Your task is just to read on! Louis, Jefferson, and Kansas. Serendipity German Shepherd Dog Rescue Any prospective dog owner looking for an adoptive German Shepherd will certainly find their stroke of luck at the Serendipity Rescue. This non-profit rescue organization was founded in and is based in St. Louis, Missouri. Serendipity always has a good number of healthy adoptable German Shepherds. The Rescue is purely run by volunteers, including the adoption officers, fosters, and the board of directors. Their mission is to secure a loving home for every GSD saved. The dogs are mostly from shelters and puppy mills. A few are surrendered by owners who can no longer guarantee their welfare. As a German Shepherd lover, you can be part of the rescue work at Serendipity in different ways: Donating funds, dog food, or other care items. Providing a foster home. Becoming a volunteer. Adopting a GSD. You can specify your interest in a particular dog or allow the adoption officers to suggest a good match. Allow time for volunteers to review your application. Once done, they will contact you to confirm approval and make any clarifications for both sides. Leave time for the adoption officers to contact your vet and personal references as part of a background check. Allow a home visit to finalize the adoption process. Honor an invitation to a meet-and-greet once approved. This could also be the day you bring home your German Shepherd. You can also post mail to Chesterfield, MO , email [email protected] , or join their numerous Facebook followers. Journey Home German Shepherd Dog Rescue When the founding volunteers started the Journey Home Rescue in , they intended to save homeless German Shepherds and lead them on a journey to their new forever home. The non-profit c 3 organization is located in Jefferson City but rescues German Shepherds from all parts of the state and beyond. Numerous volunteers work hard to save and rehome abandoned, abused, and neglected GSDs. They collaborate with many generous fosters who welcome these furry friends to their homes until they can find new families. If you are a German Shepherd enthusiast, you can also be part of the noble work at Journey Home Rescue. Your assistance will help an already rescued GSD or facilitate the rescue of many more dogs. Work as a volunteer at the Rescue or open the doors of your home for foster services. Adopt a GSD and give the pet a forever home. To adopt a German Shepherd from Journey Home Rescue, you have to abide by these steps and requirements: Submit a completed adoption application. Wait for volunteers at the Rescue to review your application and contact you within 10 days. The review process includes contacting your vet and personal references. Allow a home visit. Attend a meet-and-greet. All family members, including current pets, should be present. Sign and submit an adoption contract. Pay the adoption fee and pick up your new furry friend. You can enquire about the adoption fee for your chosen German Shepherd by emailing [email protected]. Missouri German Shepherd Rescue Not every German Shepherd rescue takes in dogs indiscriminately regardless of their history, medical, and physical state. But Missouri German Shepherd Rescue does. Volunteers with love for the breed started the c 3 charitable Rescue in in the City of Kansas. With the help of volunteers and fosters, the Rescue has restored hope to thousands of purebred German Shepherds and mixes, as well as dogs of other breeds. Personnel at Missouri German Shepherd Rescue works by the maxim that every dog is worthy of being saved. Dogs with serious medical issues like heartworm disease , impaired vision, or an injured or withered limb. Unsocialized or poorly trained dogs. The Rescue does not have a physical facility. Instead, it relies on the generosity of GSD lovers who open the doors of their homes to foster homeless dogs. You can join Missouri German Shepherd Rescue as a foster to help care for rescued dogs and save many more. If offering free services at the Rescue works better for you, you can apply to be a volunteer. You can also give a monetary donation or provide a forever home to a German Shepherd by adopting. The adoption process commences with completing an application form. Once your request is approved, the Rescue personnel will organize a meet-and-greet. These clubs serve as a platform where GSD lovers can continue learning about the breed and participate in club fun days. We operate out of the Omaha-Lincoln, Nebraska area. Our focus is to save German Shepherd dogs at risk of being euthanized in shelters or other dire situations. We also help Australian Cattle Dogs and other herding breeds and mixes in need, as much as we are able to. Many are sick or injured. And these adorable, forgotten pups couldn't be more needy or deserving of our compassion and help. You can help too by opening your heart and fostering, adopting or donating. Our Mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and place the dogs we rescue in permanent, loving homes. German Shepherds are highly intelligent, yet sensitive and intuitive dogs. We firmly believe that they respond best to positive reinforcement and a firm but always kind hand. German Shepherds thrive on structure, consistency, and mutual respect. They respond very well to reward-based training treats, praise. Being heavy-handed, rough, or using force or inappropriate training tools is not only unkind, but it can often lead to distrust and can result in behavioral issues. We do not have a shelter facility. The dogs we rescue stay with our volunteer foster families until the time of their adoption. We provide necessary veterinary care, appropriate nutrition, love, training and socialization to ready our dogs for their forever home. Our greatest need is for foster families. Our ability to save a dog's life is most often determined by whether we have an open foster home for that dog to go in. There are many ways that you can help. We always need volunteers to help transport, process applications, and do home visits. Cannot foster or volunteer? Donations are much appreciated! Adoption fees do not begin to cover the foster dogs' expenses, which include dog food, preventative, vetting, boarding, and in many cases high-cost medical bills. Many of the dogs we help, arrive with no prior vetting whatsoever, and are sick or injured, which can be very costly to a small, all-volunteer rescue like ours. We are very thankful for our supporters' generosity, as we rely on fundraisers and donations to continue helping dogs in need! Your donation is tax deductible. If you would like a receipt for your donation, please let us know. Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated and allow us to save more dogs. Highlighted Events.

Everyone loves a true Christmas surprise. And that is exactly what my husband and I had planned this year. A surprise puppy is what we had up our sleeves! We lost our Golden, Cooper, almost 2 years prior at age .He was the best dog! We had him before our boys were born, so they never knew a life without Cooper around. To say it was a hard thing to lose him is an understatement, as anyone who has had a pet knows. We spent the past couple years talking about it, but every time our boys would ask we would put them off and tell them not just yet. That was all part of our little plan to throw them off! But, we decided we were ready and we decided our surprise puppy would be another Golden Retriever. Research, research and more research…and we finally found a litter and went behind our boys backs and picked out our pup. We were going to pick her up on Christmas eve and surprise them Christmas morning. You know, the thing I have always dreamed about happening. We were crushed and heartbroken, but we also knew that we had to keep looking and try again. The good news is that we found another litter, but they were ready to go right then. When they woke up that morning, Elfie our elf had left them a note…. They got ready, and we put the gifts under the tree… Each boy had a box with a dog bowl and one had a collar and one had a toy. The confusion was hysterical. I got a bowl and a Christmas bracelet? We loaded up in the car on a road trip to bring home our Bailey. She was cute, perfect and healthy and we were instantly in love. And I think my boys loved being able to be there to pick her out and bring her home. Here are some pictures since she has been home with us! Have you ever surprised your kiddos with a puppy? I would love to hear how!! Until next time…. It suggests keeping a variety of toy types easily accessible, although if your dog has a favorite, like a soft comfort toy, you may want to leave it out all the time. Moreover, you should provide toys that serve various purposes. For example, one toy to carry, one to shake, one to roll and one for comfort. Many of your dog's toys should be interactive. That's important because dogs need active "people time," which enhances the bond between you and your pet. Examples of interactive toys are balls and flying disks. A stock image shows a dog holding a Christmas gift in its mouth. A video of a golden retriever stealing her Christmas present from underneath a Christmas tree has gone viral on social media. Getty Images The TikTok video quickly attracted animal lovers from all over the platform, receiving over 1. One user, Corina, commented, "I'll take this thank you. But, she only unwapped her own. Don't know how she knew. Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life newsweek. Read more.

Pat yourself on the back, as you chose a tremendous breed! While adding a puppy to your family is an exciting time, raising a young puppy also requires pet owners to undertake a series of responsibilities. Puppies will require regular feeding , potty training, some toys to play with , love and attention, and, last but certainly not least, vaccinations. However, during their puppy period, they will require a series of vaccinations that are essential to their ability to fight off bacteria and diseases. Booster Vaccinations for Labrador Retrievers The first vaccinations that your labrador retriever will need are called boosters. Why call them boosters? Super creative, we agree! The first booster vaccination is recommended to be done between weeks old and is done to combat canine distemper. In many states, giving your pets a rabies shot is required by law. DHPP Vaccine and Beyond The third vaccination that your labrador retriever is scheduled to receive takes place between 16 and 20 weeks old. This very efficient shot contains four vaccines all in one that fight against distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, and parainfluenza. Depending on the where you and your new puppy live, your labrador retriever might also need to be vaccinated against diseases such as lyme, leptospirosis, and coronavirus. The name kennel cough derives from the likelihood that dogs that are boarded contract it. The vaccine DHPP is used to prevent kennel cough. Hepatitis in dogs is a viral disease that attacks a their liver and eyes. It can lead to reproductive issues and causes significant discomfort. Though humans can also contract forms of hepatitis, this form can not be transmitted to humans. It can be transmitted to humans. DHPP is used to prevent it. Parvovirus is a serious and highly contagious disease that is especially dangerous for puppies. It is often fatal. The cost of vaccinations will vary slightly depending on the provider. We recommend that you call a few of your local veterinarians or clinics to ask for price quotes for of each vaccination you are preparing to give your puppy. Another option for pet owners is to consider acquiring pet insurance for their labrador retriever. Pet insurance provides pet owners with the freedom to make veterinary decisions without stressing the financial implications. Learn why most vets recommend pet insurance to pet owners. Looking to learn more about your labrador retriever? PetPlace is a wonderful resource for pet owners who want to discover more about their pet, and others. We have thousands of vet-approved articles that will quench your thirst for pet-related info. Specific to labrador retrievers, you can discover 5 attributes about labs that make them great or tips for house training your new puppy. Rabies Vaccine Rabies is a viral infection caused by a virus secreted in the saliva. According to the Humane Society , because the infection affects the nervous system, most rabid animals behave abnormally. When should puppies get rabies shots? Generally speaking, puppies should get their first rabies shot around 16 weeks of age and again between years old. Rabies Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks Booster: every 3 years Non-core Vaccines Non-core vaccines are important, but they are considered optional for dogs with less risk of infection. Non-core vaccines are recommended based on lifestyle and where you live or travel. Bordetella Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium associated with respiratory disease in dogs and is known to cause the most severe form of kennel cough. Symptoms of an upper respiratory infection include nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing, congestion, etc. Some veterinarians may recommend Bordetella as a core vaccine for puppies based on their living environment, especially for social dogs who spend time in areas where they might come into contact with the bacteria like the dog park, boarding facilities, or doggy daycare. The vaccination can be given orally, intranasally, or by injection. Bordetella Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks Booster: every year Leptospira Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by infection of the genus Leptospira, which are found in water and soil. The zoonotic disease spreads easily from animals to humans and is more common in warm climate areas with high annual rainfall; the Leptospira vaccine may be considered core in these areas. Signs of leptospirosis may include shivering, fever, muscle tenderness, increased thirst, dehydration, diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, jaundice, kidney failure, liver failure, etc. Leptospira Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks 3rd shot: 1 year Booster: every year There is also a 5-way vaccine known as DHLPP, which is a combination vaccine of distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, and parvo. Lyme disease Lyme disease is caused by infection with the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi which is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. The most common symptoms in dogs include loss of appetite, lameness, joint swelling, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. More serious cases can also develop kidney complications. The Lyme disease vaccine is highly recommended for dogs that live in or frequently travel to areas known for Lyme disease, as well as those living in areas with a high risk of tick exposure. Lyme Vaccination Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks 2nd shot: weeks later Booster: every year Canine Influenza Canine influenza, or dog flu, is a contagious viral infection affecting dogs. The virus is spread through aerosols or droplets containing respiratory secretions from barking, sneezing, and coughing. Dogs in close contact with infected dogs in places like daycare facilities, groomers, and kennels are at a higher risk of contracting the disease. CIV causes an acute respiratory infection in dogs, with the most common clinical sign being a cough that persists for up to 21 days. Vaccines are available for both H3N2 and H3N8 canine influenza. A bivalent vaccine offering protection against both strains is available as well. Dogs become infected when they swallow the parasite that may be present in water or other substances that have been soiled with feces leading to the disease Giardiasis. Giardia in dogs usually causes diarrhea, weight loss, or even death. Giardia is an available vaccine for puppies 8 weeks of age and older for 6 months of immunity against giardiasis. Most common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Young dogs are at a high risk of contracting the disease, so the vaccine is highly recommended for puppies under eight weeks. Rattlesnake vaccine A rattlesnake vaccine can help dogs build antibodies to rattlesnake venom from bites that are often deadly and severely painful to dogs. The antibodies work to neutralize the venom, thereby significantly extending the window of time you have to take your dog to the emergency room , increasing their odds of survival. Protect yourself from heartbreak without breaking the bank. Compare quotes to find the best deal for your budget. After that, puppies should receive a series of vaccines every two to four weeks until actual protein can be achieved between the ages of 6 and 20 weeks old. Your vet will determine a safe vaccine schedule for your puppy based on their weight, health, age, etc. Some pet parents prefer getting multiple puppy shots in one vet visit to minimize stress on their pet, whereas others prefer to spread the shots out to reduce possible side effects and soreness — talk to your vet to create a safe vaccine schedule that works for you and your puppy. Rabies depends on local laws but is usually given by the time your dog reaches 3 to 6 months old. When should puppies have all their shots by? Most vets prefer giving the final DHPP shot at 16 weeks or later; however, new recommendations suggest up to 20 weeks out. When do puppies need booster shots? Abstaining from booster shots can put your puppy at risk. However, not all vaccines require yearly boosters. DHPP vaccine booster: every two weeks for a total of three sets, then every three years Lepto, Canine influenza, and Lyme disease vaccine booster: one month after the initial series, then annually Bordetella booster: 1 year or every 6 months where there is a concern Rabies booster: every 1 to 3 years after the initial round, depending on state laws Puppy Vaccine Schedule There are several types of puppy shots your pet might get in their first year. In addition to a deworming schedule, your vet will suggest a vaccination schedule for puppies based on their age, environment, and medical history. Most vets recommend this general timeline for first-year puppy shots: weeks of age Between 6- and 8-weeks-old, puppies get their first shot of the DHPP distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus vaccine. They might also receive their first round of vaccinations for Bordetella and Lyme disease. Leptospira Lepto is a common puppy vaccination administered around this time frame. They'll also get their first rabies vaccine depending on state-mandated vaccine schedules for puppies, as well as a second shot of the Lepto vaccine if applicable. Boosters Every Years Puppies will need a booster shot for all vaccines at age 1. Dogs need booster vaccinations for Bordetella, Lepto, Lyme, and Giardia annually receiving their first immunization as an adult. The vaccination schedule for DHPP and rabies is every 3 years, but check your local laws and defer to your veterinarian's advice to ensure your pet stays free of disease. How much are puppy shots? Non-essential vaccines your vet may recommend will also increase the price. Note that puppy shots cost more or less depending on several different factors, including your location. For instance, vets in crowded urban areas tend to charge more than vets in smaller towns and rural areas. Also keep in mind that you'll need to budget for booster shots in one- or three-year intervals to ensure your pet stays protected from disease. Fortunately, vaccines for dogs are less expensive than first-year puppy shots because boosters are administered in one dose every few years, as opposed to multiple doses every few weeks. All puppies need to get the core vaccines, i. Your veterinarian will consider the risk factors and advise you on which vaccines are best for your puppy during the first vet visit. No, but both vaccines for puppies are often combined in one shot. Distemper and parvovirus are two different illnesses that are potentially fatal if not treated quickly. What is the 5-in-1 shot for puppies? Do puppies need 3 or 4 sets of shots? It depends on their age; vets may recommend a shorter puppy vaccination schedule for dogs over 16 weeks old and not yet fully vaccinated. How many shots do puppies need before going outside? A titer test is a blood test showing whether your puppy has antibodies for a particular illness. The test can be used to determine the effectiveness of a vaccine and help determine if or which booster vaccines your dog needs. Most doggy daycares and boarding facilities do not accept a titer test in lieu of a puppy vaccination record. When should puppies get dewormed? Because worms are very common in puppies, veterinarians recommend deworming them for the first time when they're two to three weeks old. Is there a heartworm vaccine for puppies? Preventatives can either be administered as monthly medication or every six months by injection. How can you save money on puppy shots? One way to save money on puppy vaccines is by visiting a low-cost vaccination clinic. These clinics typically offer packages that combine a bundle of vaccinations into a lower price point, but also offer individual options if your dog is due for a specific vaccine. Another way to save money on puppy shots is by purchasing a pet wellness plan through a pet insurance provider. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Vaccinations can protect your dog against a variety of life-threatening illnesses. Not to mention, some vaccinations are required by law. Why Do Puppies Need Vaccinations? Puppies need vaccinations to help prevent the catching of various dangerous diseases. If your dog ever comes in contact with a disease they have been vaccinated against, his immune system will know how to destroy it. There are vaccines available to protect your puppy against more than 11 different diseases. However, depending on your circumstances and where you live, your puppy might not need them all. Your vet will be able to recommend those they think your really needs, with others being up to your choice. There are four core vaccines for diseases all puppies should be vaccinated against and seven non-core vaccines that the American Animal Hospital Association and the American Veterinary Medicine Association recommend. The non-core vaccines may or may not be recommended by your vet, depending on different variables, mostly the prevalence or absence of a disease in your area. The Core Vaccinations Rabies. This is a potentially fatal and highly contagious disease. Depending on which state or country you live in, your dog will need to have a booster once every one to three years. This common virus is hard to treat and has an 80 percent fatality rate, which is why inoculating against it is so important. Canine viral hepatitis is also known as adenovirus. Canine distemper. Before vaccination, this was a big killer of dogs. Vaccinating against this disease will protect your puppy if he comes in contact with the virus while out and about. The Non-Core Vaccinations Lyme disease. The vast majority of cases have occurred in the eastern American coastal states between Massachusetts and Virginia. Parainfluenza and Bordetella. The parainfluenza virus and the bordetella bacterium are both major causes of kennel cough. Inoculation is generally only necessary if your puppy is going to be exposed to many other dogs. For instance, at boarding kennels, doggy daycare or dog shows. This infectious disease is a common cause of stomach upset. This bacteria can infect dogs and their human companions. In serious cases it can cause organ failure and death in dogs. In certain high-risk parts of the country, your dog might need a booster every six months. Giardia are parasites that commonly live in the digestive tracts of dogs. Many dogs have them, but they rarely cause problems. How Are Vaccines Given? Most vaccines are given as injections. These are given either under the skin or into the muscle. Most combination injections protect against distemper, leptospirosis, hepatitis, parainfluenza, coronavirus and parvovirus. This allows their body time to develop a good immune response. Recommended and Most Common Schedule of Vaccinations: 6 to 7 weeks old: This is when your puppy should get his first combination injection. He needs his second combination vaccine. Make sure you have a record of his first injection to show your new vet. If necessary, he will also have a Lyme disease vaccine. At this point, your vet will advise you when your puppy can go out for his first walk. Are There Any Risks Involved? Unfortunately, there are potential risks to having your puppy vaccinated. That said, the risks are far outweighed by the benefits. However, you should monitor your dog closely after a vaccination and contact your vet right away if you notice any of the following symptoms: Hives. What Vaccines Do Puppies Need? Core Versus Non-Core Vaccines CORE vaccines: Some infectious diseases of dogs are so common, debilitating, easily spread, or can be spread to people zoonotic that vaccination against them is deemed of critical importance. The first three are often administered as the combination DA2P shot. NON-CORE vaccines: On the other hand, there are diseases and conditions for which there are vaccines, but either because of their limited geographic distribution meaning they don't affect all parts of the country equally , lesser severity, specific lifestyle risk factors, or other reasons, they are not automatically recommended for every dog. The Benefits of Vaccines The benefits of vaccines far outweigh any risks. Vaccines are very effective and safe. Their use has notably decreased the morbidity and mortality associated with many infectious diseases. Per a study, there were only .Adverse events were more typical among smaller dogs and those receiving multiple vaccinations at one visit. Vaccine Safety Before I jump into which vaccines your puppy may need, it's critical to know that where they get their vaccines is equally as important. This is because individuals and organizations that aren't regulated, like veterinarians are, buy vaccines from places that may not know how to handle them properly. They may allow the vaccines to get warm, and this inactivates them. Or people transport them and don't keep them temperature-controlled or leave them in a vehicle for too long. In both these cases, the vaccines are essentially useless. Where you get your vaccines matters, and your veterinarian is trained and regulated to administer them properly. Puppy Vaccines By Age 6—8 weeks of age In some cases, your puppy will already have received some of these vaccines before you pick them up. Check with the people or organization you're getting your puppy from to confirm which vaccines your pup received and when. See the safety note above. This information is important for your vet to have to know best how to structure your pup's initial vaccination series, as all these puppy vaccines need to be given in a series of initial shots followed by booster shots. This vaccine may be administered as a DA2PP, which is the same thing but also includes protection against Parainfluenza an important but non-core vaccine to help protect against a highly contagious respiratory virus. If your puppy is only receiving its first vaccine or is a toy breed, your veterinarian may administer the Bordetella at the next appointment. The Bordetella vaccine comes in three different types, intra-nasal, oral, or injectable. Depending on which type of vaccine your veterinarian uses will determine if it needs to be boosted in 2 to 4 weeks. This vaccine is often recommended for dogs who will go to dog daycare, puppy classes, dog parks, dog shows, be boarded, etc. Dog Flu There are two different canine flu vaccines available, each protecting against a different strain of dog flu. If this is the first dose of this vaccine your pup is receiving, they will need another vaccination in 2—4 weeks, depending on which vaccine they are given, for the best protection. Again, this non-core vaccine is suitable for dogs who will go to puppy classes, grooming, dog parks, dog shows, travel, be boarded, etc. However, the facility needs to be clean, and all pups in attendance need to have also received their first veterinary-administered vaccines and deworming. Check with your vet and your puppy training facility of choice on timing, and see this position statement on puppy socialization timing from the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior. Meet some not all other dogs: A puppy can usually also start to meet other KNOWN and healthy puppies and adult dogs at this point in locations that are safe and clean. Avoid: Sidewalks, parks, pet stores, doggie daycare, groomers, and other areas or settings frequented by other unknown dogs. Socialization of puppies is critically important for their emotional and behavioral development, and it isn't just about them being "social" with other dogs or even people. There are many "non-social" things that young puppies need to be properly exposed to early on. Check out our Pupstanding App with its fun, easy-to-use checklist to help socialize your pup. Either way, it's an important visit. This vaccine may be administered as a DA2PP, which is the same thing, but also includes protection against Parainfluenza an important but non-core vaccine. Kennel Cough The initial vaccine can be given at this age if necessary or desired, depending on the type of vaccine used intra-nasal, oral, or injectable. Depending on which type of vaccine your veterinarian uses will determine if it needs to be boostered in 2 to 4 weeks. If this is the first dose of this vaccine your pup is receiving, they will need another vaccination in 2—4 weeks, depending on which vaccine they are receiving, for the best protection. Avoid: Sidewalks, parks, pet stores, daycare, and other areas or settings used by other unknown dogs should be avoided. Shopping malls and home improvement stores can be great places to socialize your puppy without excessive risk of contagious dog diseases. However, keeping your pet in a stroller or backpack lessens your pup's chances of being exposed to diseases. Your goal is to remove any trace of fecal matter before your pup licks their paws or contaminates your care or home. Their booster shots at this visit are important to build their immunity and help protect them from these diseases. This vaccine may be administered as a DA2PP, which is the same thing but also includes protection against Parainfluenza an important non-core vaccine. State and local regulations determine the age at which all dogs must be vaccinated for rabies. See below for more detail on what this vaccine covers against and why you or your vet might want to consider it. Note: Because Lepto can be devastating to both your dog and you it is zoonotic , and also because all dogs can be at risk including even indoor-only dogs and those that never leave their backyard , your veterinarian may highly recommend and consider this vaccine "core," and may recommend starting the initial series in the 9—12 week age range rather than 12— 16 weeks old. See below for more detail on what the Lepto vaccine covers against and why you or your vet might want to consider it. Where your puppy can usually go and what they can usually do after this 12—16 week vaccine visit: Play with unknown dogs: Following this visit, a puppy can usually begin to expand their circle of friends to include unknown dogs i. Still avoid: Daycare centers, fields, and parks including dedicated dog parks should still be avoided. Where your puppy can usually go and what they can usually do after this 15—17 week vaccine visit: Freedom! One week after this final puppy vaccine visit, most pups have enough vaccine protection against the common vaccinable conditions to be able to get a full groom and go to the dog park, doggie daycare, pet stores, and other places where large groups of unknown dogs frequent and congregate. Of course, it's still a good idea to keep an eye out and avoid any obviously sick dogs. Booster vaccinations will be needed throughout their life. The frequency and types of vaccine boosters your dog will need throughout their life are influenced by their lifestyle, where you live and travel to with them, how common certain diseases are in your area and at different times of the year, and a host of other factors. For some dogs and some conditions, titers blood tests measuring the level of antibodies in your dog's system may help to determine vaccination intervals and may be preferable. This is a discussion to have with your vet. Titer Testing for Dogs A titer is a test that is done using a sample of your dog's blood to measure the level of antibodies to a specific disease. Antibodies are proteins made by the body as a response to antigens. Antigens are foreign substances or stimuli to the body, such as viruses, bacteria, or vaccinations, that cause the body to mount an immune response. Vaccine titers are used as a screening tool to determine whether or not to revaccinate for a particular disease. If a vaccine titer comes back high, this indicates that your dog, if exposed to that disease, should be able to fight it off. The problem with titers Vaccines are given either yearly or every 3 years. With titers, there is no way to predict what the levels will be in three to six months, even if they tested high at the time of the titer testing. Many factors can affect the immune system and its level of resistance. Factors such as disease, stress, or medications can impact it, and therefore there is no consistency over time regarding what the antibody levels could be. This could put your dog at risk until you go in for another titer test. Rabies is a vaccine required by law in all states. There are only certain states that allow titers for medical exceptions. Every puppy is different. Similarly, some puppies are born with deficiencies in their immune system, or their immune system may develop more slowly because of dietary or other factors. Maternal immunity is protective but can interfere with a puppy's vaccinations. Over the first few weeks of life, maternal immunity begins to decline, and by about 12 weeks it is generally gone. However, some puppies are provided protection by maternal immunity as old as 20 weeks. The vaccines are given as a series to give the maternal immunity time to wane while their own immune system is fully developing in response to and in conjunction with their shots. Missing a Vaccine or Booster Shot Dog owners should be aware that missing or delaying a vaccine in a series for more than 4 weeks puts a puppy at risk of disease. During the initial series of a vaccine, if you delay a booster more than six weeks or miss one, an additional booster vaccine will be needed 3 weeks after resuming the series. For example, if you miss the third vaccine in the DA2P series, a vaccine will be given and then boosted again in 3 weeks. Note: You may need to restart a series two vaccine doses 3 to 4 weeks apart for yearly vaccines that are not boosted within 1 year and 6 weeks from the last vaccine given. Vaccine-Preventable Diseases in Dogs The core vs. Your veterinarian is your best resource for helping to determine which vaccines your new pup would benefit from and when. They are the only ones who have the medical training and understanding, as well as the first-hand knowledge of your dog and your environment necessary to best guide you. Note that some of the vaccinable conditions listed below can be zoonotic, meaning that they can also infect and cause disease in people. The bacteria is transmitted through the air or direct contact, especially when an infected dog coughs or sneezes. It can also be spread by contaminated clothing, bowls, beds, and other communal surfaces such as cages or kennels. Summary of dog vaccination schedules Why do we vaccinate dogs? This helps their body build immune cells that are specifically designed to respond effectively when the real thing comes along. And in fact, the diseases they prevent are irritating at best, and potentially deadly at worst. Vaccines are also relatively painless, easy, and cost-effective to administer. What do we vaccinate dogs against? There are a number of vaccines for dogs, which can be broken down into core and non-core vaccines. Your veterinarian can help you decide which non-core vaccines are right for your dog. What are the core vaccines for dogs? Rabies: Rabies is a highly contagious and fatal viral disease transmitted via a bite from an infected animal, such as coyotes, raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes. It can be transmitted to humans, for whom it is also fatal. The Rabies vaccine is legally required in most U. These are all serious, highly infectious diseases that can result in pain, organ damage and may be fatal. Whilst some vets do not consider this a core vaccine, at Small Door we strongly recommend it for all dogs in New York, as leptospirosis is found across all five boroughs and is even more prominent outside of the city. What are the non-core vaccines for dogs? Bordetella: Bordetella is also known as kennel cough , a nasty respiratory disease. The vaccine is required by dog groomers, boarding and daycare facilities. Lyme: Lyme Disease is a bacterial disease that can affect pets and humans, causing fever, painful joints and, at times, organ damage. When do puppies get their first shots? Puppies should typically receive their first shots as soon as they are weaned or around 8 weeks old. This is generally completed during three vet visits in the first few months. Geographical location and lifestyle are factors that may come into play, so not every dog will need every vaccine. However, here is what a typical puppy vaccination timeline looks like for year one. This maternal immunity can also interfere with the vaccines we administer, and make them less effective. So, to make sure puppies acquire a high enough level of antibodies to be effective, we have to vaccinate them multiple times — in other words, administer boosters. I'm not sure if my dog is up-to-date on shots, what should I do? Your veterinarian may be able to run an antibody test to determine if the dog needs additional vaccinations or if their vaccination process needs to be started over. Adult dog vaccine schedule Adult and senior dogs need regular boosters to maintain their immunity levels. Boosters are required yearly or every three years depending on the vaccine. Previously this vaccine was recommended every six months, but guidelines now recommend yearly boosters. Some groomers and daycare facilities may still request the six month booster shot. Canine influenza: every year Lyme disease: every year Vaccinations for adult dogs: boosters and titers Although vaccines are very safe, some owners may have concerns about providing boosters to their pets. In these cases, they might consider a titer instead. Titers may also be required for international travel to some countries. A titer test is a procedure for testing and measuring the amount of antibodies proteins that provide protection from certain diseases a dog has in its blood for a specific disease. This is accomplished by repeatedly diluting a sample of blood and then exposing the diluted blood to an antigen. They can be a way to measure if your dog needs to be revaccinated or if they can forgo the booster. By law, the only shot required in most U. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative then animal shelters often offer low-cost vaccine clinics, although they might not offer all of the vaccinations that your pup might need. Related articles.

Articles The Golden Retriever is considered one of the most popular double-coat doggies in the world. It is known for its long and luscious coat that looks red, amber, and sometimes golden. It is known for being lovable and trustworthy and is one of the perfect breeds for dog competitions or shows. In order to keep your Golden Retriever looking dapper but also protecting their health, you should consider giving them a trim or cut. A Full Shave is recommended for Goldies with medical conditions or severe matting, while a Kennel Cut is great at keeping a Goldie looking sharp and neat. In addition, you can try out Field Cut before bringing the Goldie on an outdoor trip. There is the option of visiting a pet salon for that extra after-trim care or trying it out yourself at home. A cut does not have to be the same boring one, and we have some cool suggestions that you can try out. Puppy Cut Image from Instagram: d. It can be done on a Golden Retriever or any other pup breed you may have at home. In addition, it ensures that little to no fur is shed on your furniture and car seat. The functional role of this cut is for doggies that are part of a show, like dog shows and competitions. This cut is neatly done around the ears, private parts, and paws. Keen attention to detail is important during trimming. This cut is all about trimming your pup, leaving it with a short coat that will not weigh it down when wet. It also helps your pup to dry up much faster. This type of cut is short enough to also protect their skin from swimming pool chemicals. If the water mass that your doggie spends time in is a natural water source, you can opt for a different cut. Summer Cut Image from Dog grooming and sitting A Summer Cut is one that is presumably designed to keep your pup cool during the hot days of the year. It is more about getting rid of the top coat and keeping a short haircut all through. It means keeping the cut to an inch or shorter and can be done around the ears and personal zones. It is also important to note that a Golden Retriever has a double coat which keeps them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. To ensure that you have the best summer trim, you should consult a professional groomer. Simple Trim Image from Instagram: gldpaws If you are looking for a cut on Golden Retrievers that does not demand too much work, the Simple Trim is the best option. It is all about doing a nice trim of the long hairs as well as any dead or unmanageable hairs. This cut is done all over the body with a focus on around the neck and chest area. It is all about keeping your pup feeling cool but, at the same time, protecting them from bites, skin irritation, or the biting cold. The style makes your pup look like a large teddy bear because you have to feather the coat for that look after the cut. You can get the help of a professional groomer for that perfect teddy bear finish. The main purpose of this cut is to get rid of any excess hair that can trap dirt and other debris or get caught on branches or bushes. This cut requires you to trim the hair short throughout the body and keep it at the same length. It is much shorter than Teddy and Puppy Cuts. In fact, they last much longer than other cuts as they will grow out evenly over time. There are a few reasons why your Golden Retriever may need a full trim, and this can be useful in treating a medical condition or dermatitis, getting rid of dead hairs, and doing away with matted fur. This means it is a cut for extreme situations that may arise. It is shaved as close to the skin as possible. It is important to note that you should resist a Full Shave on long-haired doggies because they need their fur to regulate their body temperature. The fur is also responsible for preventing bug bites or skin irritation. Yes, you need to take your Golden Retriever for a regular trim. The main role of a shave is to get rid of dead hairs while regulating the body temperature at the same time. Golden Retrievers are known for their long fur and look great in their dense coats. Their coat is known to shed naturally, which is also great. There are different cuts to choose from, so you should not feel restricted to a simple shave. After shaving, a Golden Retriever will have shorter fur, which allows them to roam freely outdoors or swim without worrying about dirt or debris. They should feel cool in the summer and also warm in the winter, depending on how clean the shave you have chosen for your Goldie. You are advised to trim or lightly shave them to prevent their hair follicles from getting destroyed. This can mean their lovely coat may never grow back. Golden Retrievers have a double coat that looks great and protects their skin from external elements, such as extreme heat, skin irritation, and bug bites. Care and attention should be a priority when trimming or shaving your furry friend. Avoid shaving below an inch to the skin, and keep the trim uniform all over. As mentioned, try not to cut too close to the skin to prevent hair follicle damage, which can prevent the hair from growing back. It may not make much difference to the dog, they will still get warm and their coat will still protect them, but they will look neater and even more majestic. Show Cut The simple trim is functional and primarily benefits you, as the owner. Trim, feather the fur, and properly trim the paws, ears, and sanitary areas. Because the show cut is for dogs that are being shown, it requires a lot more attention to detail. You will need to ensure that it follows the right shape and that you do a good job of cutting areas like the paws. It may be worth getting a professional groomer to complete this trim. Summer Cut Summertime is when a lot of owners decide to shave their dogs. It makes sense in many ways—your dog is hot. Getting rid of their double coat will reduce the temperature and even the weight that they have to carry around. The summer cut is a good alternative. It is more shaped than a puppy cut but can be as short. Keep the shape of the coat but cut it down to an inch or shorter. The Teddy Cut The Teddy Cut is a professional cut that is specifically offered to breeds like the Golden Retriever that have luscious, long double coats. It helps regulate temperature and keep them cooler during the summer months without affecting the double coat itself. The body is clipped really short while the legs are scissored to their natural shape. The tail and feet are also trimmed and curved to shape. This cut makes your dog look fluffy and like a teddy, hence its name, and it will help keep them cool and minimize the risk of damaging their natural, double coat. Golden Retriever Haircuts: Final Thoughts The Golden Retriever has a long list of recognizable attributes, but they get their name from their beautiful golden locks. Whether you exhibit your Retriever, or he is a family companion, you can provide him with a haircut that keeps him cool, ensures that he looks his best, and that will not damage his incredible double coat. Featured image credit: Olena Brodetska, Shutterstock Contents. By Yvonne Villasenor Yvonne Villasenor is a freelance writer and animal lover who just so happens to be allergic to cats and dogs. That doesn't stop her from cuddling with them! When Yvonne's not working, you can find her lounging with her charming Chihuahuas, weightlifting, or wandering around Halloween stores. The golden retriever , of course! With a heart of gold and a coat to match, it's no wonder how the golden retriever is known as one of the most popular dog breeds. Friendly, loyal, and intelligent, goldens make great family dogs and fur-ever companions. They love adventures and love to play, meaning, their medium-length locks will inevitably get dirty and have to be groomed. However, before you take any dog to get groomed, it's important to know what type of coats they have—a single coat or a double coat —as some haircuts may not be the best fit for your canine companion. Due to their upbringing as gundogs bred to retrieve waterfowl and upland game, golden retrievers have a double coat, or two layers of fur—a dense, water-repellent outer coat and a thick, soft undercoat. For this reason, golden retrievers shouldn't be shaved since their double coats keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Ready to take your playful pooch to their next grooming session? We've selected the best golden retriever haircuts to fit any pup and pet parent's preference, lifestyle, and budget. Puppy Cut The puppy cut is a fan favorite among dog parents—and for good reason! It's simple, cute, and low-maintenance. While the length can vary based on the pet parent's preference, your golden's fur is typically cut to be around half an inch in length and is trimmed to the same length all over their body, says Reda Elabd, certified master groomer and owner of Central Park Pet Spa in New York, N. Summer Cut Want to keep it easy, breezy, and beautiful for your cover dog in the summertime? The summer cut is calling your golden's name! Opting for a cut like the summer cut provides comfort for your retriever when temperatures start to rise. The summer cut keeps your dog's ears, chest, and feet well-trimmed, as well as their sanitary areas. Simple Trim If you're looking to keep your golden retriever's natural shape, the simple trim is—well, simple—and a wonderful option to keep your retriever's fur tidy. Plus, it doesn't require much cutting at all. It's a style Elabd recommends year round. The coat around the dog's neck and chest could also be thinned," he says. Show Cut Let your golden's natural beauty shine with this low-maintenance, natural cut. The show cut does not require much cutting, just trimming the fur along with the paws, ears, and sanitary areas. This cut has many small details that your groomer will be able to make to show off your golden retriever's beautiful locks. Teddy Bear Cut What does your pup have in common with a teddy bear? They're both cuddly, golden cuties! The teddy bear cut is another great haircut option for summer. Elabd describes the cut as one where the legs are kept at their natural length, the body is kept short, and the tail and feet are trimmed and curved to shape. This helps regulate your retriever's temperature with a double coat and keeps him fluffy and tidy. How to Maintain a Golden Retriever's Hair at Home If you have a golden retriever at home, you know goldens have feathery, soft coats that shed a lot as it is—but especially in spring and autumn. Chances are, your black clothes have your sweet pup's hair all over them. So, what can you do to somewhat control your dog's shedding? Golden retrievers should be brushed every day to remove dead hair and prevent matting. These pups do not necessarily require "haircuts" but more so hair trims because of their double coats. It's best to get your golden retriever on a routine grooming schedule with a professional groomer to keep their coats healthy and well-maintained. It's recommended to brush your dog's teeth at least twice a week, trim his nails at least once a month, bathe him once a month more if dirty , and check his ears frequently and clean with an ear cleaner if you notice they have an odor or are red. Happy grooming! However, with numerous grooming options available, selecting the perfect cut can be overwhelming. But fret not! So instead of shaving, consider a different haircut that keeps them cool and comfortable. Summer Cut Some dog owners may believe that shaving their dogs will help them cope with the heat during the summer. Then, trim the ears, chest, feet, and personal areas for added comfort. Puppy Cut Have you ever heard of a puppy cut? The term derives from its simple approach: the fur is cut to around half an inch and is the same length all over the body. One of the benefits of the puppy cut is that it is simple to maintain, comfy for your pet, and leaves enough hair to protect them. While it will not entirely eliminate shedding, it will help lessen the amount of fur that winds up on your furniture. It allows them to regulate their body temperature in the summer without harming their natural coat. The torso is trimmed short, the legs are scissored to shape, and the tail and foot are cut in a curved shape. This cut keeps your dog looking fluffy like a teddy bear while keeping them cool and protecting its natural coat. First, remember that their double coat acts as a natural temperature regulator and shields them from the sun and other elements, so cutting it too short may cause problems. For example, a shorter cut may be suitable for a dog who spends a lot of time outside in the heat, but a longer coat may be preferable for a dog who spends most of his time indoors or in cooler weather. For a nice haircut, look for a groomer with expertise in golden retrievers who can advise you on the ideal cut for your dog. Moreover, to keep your dog healthy and happy, ensure they are up to date on their immunizations before going to the groomer. The thickness of their coat and the length of time they spend indoors versus outdoors can all influence whether a haircut is required. One thing to remember is that a complete shave is not recommended for Golden Retrievers during the summer. Instead, a skilled groomer can trim their hair to a lower length while leaving their natural undercoat intact. Protecting Your Golden Retrievers from Overheating During Summer Golden retrievers are great dogs , but their thick double coats can make them uncomfortable in hot and humid weather. It can be harmful and even dangerous when a Golden Retriever becomes overheated. Heatstroke signs in dogs include excessive panting, weakness, vomiting, and even collapsing. Fortunately, there are things you can do to keep your pet cool and healthy during hot weather. Here are some pointers: Offer plenty of fresh water: Always provide clean water for your Golden Retriever. You can also add ice cubes to the water to keep it chilled. Avoid exercising during the hottest portions of the day: It is best to exercise in the early morning or late evening in the summer. Maintain a relaxed environment: If your Golden Retriever spends time indoors, ensure the house is air-conditioned or has sufficient air circulation. Avoid walking your dog on the scorching pavement: It can burn their paws and cause them to overheat, so take shady routes or walk during more excellent times of the day. Following these tips can help prevent your Golden Retriever from overheating and keep them healthy and happy during hot weather. Get veterinarian assistance immediately if you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke. Benefits Of Regular Grooming For Your Golden Retriever Regular grooming has various advantages for your furry friend, including: Increased self-confidence and socializing: Regular grooming can help pets look and smell better, leading to improved self-confidence and socialization. Healthier skin and coat: Grooming helps eliminate dirt, dead skin, and loose fur, lowering the risk of skin irritation and infections. It can also encourage healthy hair growth and reduce shedding. Bonding: Grooming allows owners to bond with their pets while also building trust and affection. Improved circulation: Grooming enhances blood flow and circulation, promoting healthy skin and coat. Grooming pets regularly can help keep them healthy, happy, and looking their best. Arranging a summer haircut ahead of time might help them stay relaxed and healthy throughout the season. Also, planning ahead is usually preferable, so you do not have to stress at the last minute. Dog grooming salons can get quite busy during the summer, so make an appointment for your dog ahead of time to prevent losing out. Be sure to schedule a summer haircut and get ready to enjoy the hot weather before your pup is panting and overheating! Proper Nutrition: A balanced diet is crucial for a healthy coat. Hydration: Keep your dog well-hydrated during hot summer days. Provide fresh water at all times and consider adding wet food or water-rich fruits and vegetables to their diet. Proper hydration helps maintain a lustrous coat and prevents dryness. Protection from the Sun: Just like humans, dogs can suffer from sunburn and heatstroke. Flea and Tick Prevention: Summer brings an increase in fleas and ticks. Protect your Golden Retriever with preventive treatments recommended by your veterinarian. Regularly check for any signs of infestation and promptly address them to maintain a healthy coat. Bathe your Golden Retriever as needed to keep them clean, but avoid excessive bathing, as it can strip away natural oils. Professional Grooming: Consider scheduling regular professional grooming sessions for your Golden Retriever. Professional groomers have the expertise to trim and shape the coat appropriately, reducing the risk of overheating and maintaining a neat appearance. Stay Active: Regular exercise helps improve overall coat health by promoting good circulation and reducing stress. Engage your Golden Retriever in outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day to keep them physically active and mentally stimulated. Remember to monitor their coat regularly for any changes or signs of skin issues, and consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns. With proper care, your furry friend will shine under the summer sun! Conclusion In conclusion, grooming your golden retriever is essential to overall health and well-being. Regular grooming can help avoid skin irritation, matting, and discomfort associated with excessive shedding. Finally, scheduling a summer cut can help ensure your pet stays comfortable and relaxed during the hot months. So go ahead and treat your pet with a decent grooming routine! While a summer cut will not prevent all shedding, it will help reduce the amount of fur on your furniture and home. Thus, while a summer haircut may not wholly eliminate shedding, it can make it more manageable for you and your pet. Will a summer cut make my golden retriever more susceptible to sunburn? To keep your dog cool and comfortable, consider using dog-specific sunscreen and offering plenty of shade and drinks. Its double coat is essential for controlling body temperature and protecting the skin from the sun and other factors. Cutting their hair too short can cause skin irritation, sunburn, and other health problems. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. As much as we love the beautiful coat on our retriever, the constant shedding can become a bit much at times. If you own a golden, you may want to limit the shedding by cutting its hair. Here are some adorable haircuts that will keep your furry friend looking spiffy. It is an adorable option for the sizzling summer months. The cut keeps its coat neat and fluffy while regulating its temperature. The hair on the body is shortened and the feet and tail are trimmed to match its shape. The cut provides your pet with a shortened coat without the risk of damaging the undercoat. The cut is unlike shaving and protects their double coat. It is a simple cut that is easy to maintain and leaves your pet looking stylish and peppy. The length of the fur is cut to about one-half inch from head to toe. Your Goldie will still shed but the cut will help to minimize the amount of hair on your sofa and bed. This is a wonderful cut to keep your pet looking cute and fluffy but leaves it clean and comfortable. Usually, pet owners will take their dog to a professional groomer to get this cut. Especially if they have entered it into an upcoming dog show or event. The Show Cut is much like the simple trim. Once the coat is trimmed, the groomer will focus on the ears, paws, and areas that may be unsanitary. You may think it is a good idea to shave the dog in the summertime, but the double coat is what protects it from things like ticks and the hot sun and should not be shaved. The feet, ears, and chest are heavily trimmed, so the dog looks clean and polished. The groomer will also trim the private areas, leaving the dog fresh and free of germs. The groomer shapes up the coat so it is clean and tidy. The length of the hair is trimmed, and the fur is feathered. The groomer will thin the chest and neck fur to keep the coat looking well groomed while maintaining the shape of the dog. This cut keeps the coat protected so the dog stays warm and healthy. It will remove the dead skin cells and hair so the skin can breathe freely. Brushing their coat produces natural oils to keep their coat shiny and healthy. Bathing: Bath your dog regularly with a dog-specific shampoo. Ones with oatmeal will soothe their skin if it has been irritated by bug bites of debris. With a few drops of ear cleaning solution, massage the ear for 30 seconds. After the dog shakes its head, wipe the ear clean with a soft cloth. It can be extraordinarily straight, wavy, or curly. The double coat and the undercoat of a Golden Retriever are very thick. The thickness allows them to repel water Golden Retrievers have a thick coat that sheds a lot, so they are not considered a hypoallergenic breed The hair on the base of the tail, back of the legs, and under the stomach of a golden is heavily feathered The feathering of the hair is what makes a Golden Retriever look posh when they hunt and run. Conclusion Keeping the coat of a Golden Retriever clean and trimmed makes them look classy and proud. It is the shiny golden locks of a Golden Retriever that make them highly recognizable, along with their sweet and playful expressions. So, keep on loving them and caring for their coats so they look polished and healthy. Aim for an even length all over for the outer coat, and never let the clippers eat into the undercoat. Golden Retriever Haircut Styles If you take your golden to the doggy salon, there are a few other styles beyond the simple trim that can be a good choice for your dog. This draws attention to the tail and hind area, and leaves your pup looking a bit like the name suggests: a teddy bear. The cutting focuses on the paws, ears, and sanitary areas. An experienced groomer will know exactly how to do this cut for the best results. Lyme disease — Ticks enjoy the summer months as much as dogs do, as there are many more animals for them to feast on, potentially causing Lyme disease. While dogs should be protected with a flea and tick medication, they can also be vaccinated against Lyme disease. H3N2 — This type of canine influenza spreads rapidly and is always a risk when dogs get together. This happens more in the summer as dog parks fill up or vacationing owners leave their pups at the kennel. Most kennels require proof of H3N2 vaccination before they will accept dogs. Read our guide to the puppy vaccination schedule here. As well as being an irritant for your dog, ticks can cause Lyme disease, and fleas transmit heartworms through their bites. Find our recommendations for the best flea treatments here. And when you head out, carry a water bottle for them as well as one for yourself. Carry it in something with a bowl-like lid that your dog can drink out of. They will appreciate chilled water, just like you. Let Them Swim Golden retrievers love swimming, so why not let them take the occasional summertime dip to cool off. They would love a wading pool in the backyard to cool off when necessary. It can be better to give them a thorough rinse. And try to avoid chlorinated water as it can turn their beautiful golden coat a bit green. You might notice your golden seeking out places like cool bathroom tiles. When you go out with your pup, make sure to keep an eye out for shady places where they can rest. Not only will this help them keep cool, but it can give them a break from the direct sun. Dogs can suffer from sunburn and develop skin cancer just like their human pet parents. You might even be able to feel a bit of heat through your shoes as you walk on the asphalt. More than that, asphalt reflects heat, and their body and head are much closer to the asphalt than yours are. It can get very hot for them very quickly. So look for grassy strips and light-colored surfaces for them to walk on. We all know what burning hot sand feels like under the feet! Test surfaces with your own hand or foot before expecting your dog to walk on it. As a rule, never cut their outer coat shorter than their undercoat. Can you shave a golden retriever? You should never shave a golden retriever because it disrupts the balance of the double coat. They have a short undercoat that acts as insulation against both the heat and cold. Then they have their longer topcoat that protects their skin from dirt and repels water. If you shave them, they will no longer have that topcoat protecting their undercoat and their skin. Plus, when it grows back, it will just never be the same. How often do golden retrievers need haircuts? Golden needs to be groomed every weeks. But this means cutting the hair around their paws and private areas. The Verdict — Golden Retriever Haircut For Summer It is normal to be worried about your dog overheating in the summer, especially when they have a thick double coat like a golden rRetriever does. While the heat can be dangerous to your dog, their coat is not the main concern. Their double coat works like insulation that keeps them warm in winter and cold in summer. You can give it a trim if you want, but most goldens will get by fine without. Remember that if you are feeling hot, they probably are too, so give the same consideration to their comfort as you do your own. Do you have any tips for helping goldens fight the summer heat? Share them with the community in the comments section below. You May Also Like.

The protein will come from readily available sources such as chicken or beef, and not exotic or boutique sources like kangaroo or venison as you saw in second study mentioned above. According to the AKC , quality, regulated animal byproducts can be good for your dog. These byproducts can include organ meats or entrails, which often contain more nutrients than, say, plain chicken breast. Another misconception is that dogs should eat grain-free diets. As you saw in the second study mentioned above, that can actually be very harmful for your dog and cause DCM. But food labels can be a little vague and confusing, so below is an explanation of what some of these terms mean, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual and the AKC. There is one caveat though. For instance, flaked corn, ground corn, and kibbled corn could be sprinkled in an ingredient list and not be listed as the first few ingredients, but in reality, if you were to add them all up they are all corn, after all , you might find that this food is made mostly of corn. The same goes for chicken, chicken meal, and chicken byproduct. Meat vs. Meat Meal vs. The quality of these ingredients can vary widely, so be sure to talk to your vet about this and choose a reputable brand of food. Below are a few examples: Obesity. Golden Retrievers love food and they do have a tendency to become overweight if you let them. This problem can often affect these next two problems… Joint issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to joint issues and growing too fast because they eat too much can often make this problem worse more on this in the next section. Heart issues. Skin issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to hot spots and excess protein in their diets can be a factor that causes them. Many goldens suffer from food allergies. One cup of Brand X food may have calories per cup, while Brand Y has calories per cup. During a vet visit our veterinarian said he looked too small and lethargic for a puppy his age about 8 weeks at the time , and he recommended we feed him a little more. As far as how often to feed your puppy, this same rule applies. For us, we fed Oliver three times per day until he was a little over a year old. Getting a Golden Retriever Puppy? Get the gameplan for raising them right with the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Those two statements may sound random, but they are related. According to the Banfield Pet Hospital , overfeeding your Golden Retriever can cause them to grow too fast and increase their risk of hip dysplasia. You probably noticed that a raw diet was the fourth-most popular diet Golden Retriever owners feed their dog. Since puppies are growing and adults are just maintaining their weight, they have different dietary needs. And for fats, puppy food should have at least 8. As far as when to switch from puppy food to adult food, talk to your veterinarian. To see a list of other milestones your puppy will hit like when they lose their first teeth, or when their coat is fully grown check out this timeline of Golden Retriever puppy milestones. Like most of the other questions in this post, this is something to talk to your veterinarian about. Many foods will have the same vitamins that pills have already in them, but on the other hand, some breeders require that you give your puppy vitamins for their health guarantee to be valid. First, we unknowingly started him off on one of the brands listed in the graph above that is correlated with DCM. Then we switched to another brand that he just sort of liked. If we were to have another puppy, we would definitely start with the Royal Canin Golden Retriever Puppy food. How To Switch Food Brands The other day I was talking to someone who was complaining that her puppy was having lots of stomach issues. Dogs have sensitive stomachs so if you want to switch foods, you need to do it slowly. You should take about a week to transition from the old food to the new brand. Also consider how long the brand of food has been around, whether or not there have been any recalls of that brand, and if there is any research behind it. What do you feed your Golden Retriever puppy? Have any questions about what to feed them? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. Royal Canin makes dry food tailored explicitly to particular breeds. Its Golden food variation uses chicken and brown rice ingredients to support digestive health, strong bones, and a healthy coat. Gorgeous coats, healthy body conditions, great activity levels- perfect puppies! With a combination of healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables, and more, this dry dog food will encourage healthy muscle development in your Golden Retriever as well as strong teeth, a healthy heart, and improved skin and coat texture. Looking at the ingredients makes me feel that I have purchased a quality product for my guy. With ingredients like real protein, fruits, and vegetables, this dry food increases energy, strengthens bones, improves immune strength, and neutralizes free radicals. Her coat is healthier and shiny. She even trimmed down a little as her old dog food was making her fat. They produce high-quality dog food for your Golden Retriever at an affordable price. Veterinarians recommend IAMS Proactive Health because it uses ingredients like animal protein and antioxidant-rich veggies to nourish your dog and meet their complete health needs. Highly recommend it. Good for maintaining a decent weight too. Gobbles it down! With fish as the main protein, this kibble promotes a gorgeous coat and healthy skin and improves digestive issues. He eats it enthusiastically, and it has really helped him thrive! He is energetic, has a gorgeous coat, and devours his meals! She is a much happier dog. The Save Shredded Puppy Blend includes probiotics to help ease the digestion in growing Golden Retriever puppies with sensitive stomachs. I mix it with wet food, and he loves it. He loves the chunks of shredded chicken! I highly recommend it. This large-breed dry food can help your Golden Retriever maintain a healthy coat and great skin as well as smooth digestion. All of them love this food! Their coats are shiny and soft, and their poops are small! The exclusive formula also increases energy levels! We tried another brand, and it caused all kinds of allergic reactions. We went back to Eagle Pack, and all is right again. Great product! That may be because they have a senior Golden Retriever who is struggling with dental issues or feel that dehydrated food options are healthier. This particular food contains real protein and essential nutrients that can benefit dogs of all ages. Once we got this, she became a food-crazed puppy! This food includes a combination of freeze-dried raw-coated kibble with real pieces of freeze-dried raw meat! This variety has lots of meat sources plus several strains of probiotics. In general, your dog will benefit from puppy food from about 8 weeks of age until they are six months to a year old. Check with your vet to determine the right time to switch from a puppy food to one for adult dogs, as recommendations vary based on the size of your dog. A few days later, you can begin making it a half-and-half blend. Make sure to watch for loose stool from your pup as you transition — if you notice that your Golden is struggling with the new diet, wait for a few days before increasing the blend. When in doubt, check with your vet! Most dog foods come with specific volumes listed on the side. Overfeeding your pet can lead to a variety of health concerns. To determine what food will suit your dog the best, check out 17 of the top dog foods on the market for Golden Retrievers, no matter their age. Check with your vet to determine whether your Golden will need any special dietary considerations. Foods considered toxic to Golden Retrievers are macadamia nuts, chocolate, onions, garlic cloves, grapes, raisins, walnuts, alcohol, and any foods sweetened with xylitol. Try to avoid feeding your Golden food containing any of these ingredients. Grain is an essential component to the diet of Golden Retrievers. The absence of grain has been known to lead to a deficiency in taurine, which can potentially cause heart problems for your golden. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Feeding Your Golden Feeding Your Golden With the wide array of foods available today, it can be hard to make a good choice of what to feed your golden. Goldens are particularly sensitive to dietary concerns, and feeding them a high quality diet can help boost their health and immune system. Feeding a high quality food is not necessarily more expensive. Price is misleading: cheaper foods require more volume to be fed, up to several cups at each meal. With the wide array of better foods available today, you can make a smart choice of what to feed your golden. A golden will normally eat about two cups of premium food per day. It can be adjusted a little more or less based on activity level and metabolism. Goldens are prone to skin problems, and a poor quality diet will cause skin problems which translates into costly veterinarian bills. You will need to go to the pet store to purchase your food. Grocery store brands do not offer the nutrition goldens need for good health. Do not be persuaded by fancy advertising. Many commonly hyped foods are not high quality and maybe lacking the necessary nutritional value for your dog. For example, Grain Free foods may play a major part in taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers and other large breed dogs. This deficiency can cause serious heart problems for your dog see Taurine and Grain Free information on this web page. Here are some guidelines: Look for food free of chemical preservatives. Some of these additives are suspected of causing cancer. Look for food preserved with Tocopherols Vitamins C and E as well as rosemary and other herbs. Make sure you have several months before this date. Frequent stores where there is a good turnover of food so you get a fresh bag. Always store dog food in a tight airtight container in a cool, dry place. If you only have one dog, consider buying pound bags instead of pounds bags so the food is fresher. Look for a food that has some form of meat as the first ingredient — such as lamb, chicken, or turkey. Avoid foods that have grain as the first ingredient. Also look for multiple meat proteins in the first seven ingredients. Protein from multiple sources is generally viewed as being beneficial such as lamb, chicken and fish , unless your dog is allergic to certain proteins. Dog food companies sometimes list several types of grains in the first seven ingredients. Beware of this — your dog needs animal protein in his diet! These are the intestines of the animal including what is in the intestines!! Most by-products are not desirable. By-products normally contain beaks, feet, feathers, heads and other slaughterhouse wastes — not the most nutritious part of the animal. Avoid foods that have sugars or artificial colors or flavors or a lot of added salt. Semi-moist dog foods are the worst — they usually are loaded with artificial colors and sugars. Added vitamins and minerals are beneficial only when applied after the baking process, because heat destroys vitamins. The best foods are made up of ingredients that would be suitable for human consumption. Most dog foods contain meat products that are not fit for human consumption. They can include meat from diseased livestock, condemned material from slaughterhouses such as tumors cut away from meat , and as horrible as it sounds, some pet foods include euthanized pets sold to rendering plants and even road kill. Is it any wonder why so many dogs die from cancer when they are being fed meat from these sources? Grains — many dog foods will contain some grains, for example, brown rice, barley, corn, wheat, etc. We have found that some goldens in our rescue program generally do poorly on a food that contains corn or soy. Many goldens are allergic to corn or wheat. So if your golden starts getting a lot of hot spots or skin problems — check his food. There is a big difference in quality of grain products. Look for whole rice or brown rice in the ingredients; white rice and ground brewers rice are much lower in nutrients than whole or brown rice. Often pet food companies take the sweepings off the mill floor and put it in pet food. Look for whole grains instead such as oatmeal, brown rice, barley, or whole oats. Grain Free foods. Grain Free foods have become increasingly available as food companies try to offer foods that are easier to digest with lower levels of complex carbohydrates and grains. One misconception is that grain free dog food is also low-carb, however, vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, green peas and tapioca often replace the grains in grain-free dog foods, especially in kibble foods, making them as high or higher in carbohydrates than grain-based dog foods. Studies have shown peas, beans, pea starch, legumes, potatoes and sweet potatoes that have replaced the grains in dog foods block the function of taurine. Taurine, a sulfuric acid, is essential for healthy cardiovascular function in Golden Retrievers. If left untreated, taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers can cause dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , congestive heart failure and possibly death. Read all the ingredients in the food which should include taurine and check with your veterinarian before selecting or feeding any grain free food to your dog. Detailed information on dog food ingredients and taurine can be found on this web page under Taurine and Grain Free information and at: Diet Associated Heart Disease Treats — beware of many dog treats out there. They are filled with sugars, preservatives and artificial colors. Try buying biscuits at your local dog bakery or making some yourself. The dog food companies listed below have high quality treats available for your dog. Is your dog overweight? Beware of some diet dog foods, they can be loaded with fillers that provide no added nutrition. At least green beans are healthy. You can also use canned pumpkin. Typically goldens love it! DO NOT free feed your golden; instead feed a measured amount of food twice a day. Most adult goldens will eat 1 cup of premium dog food twice a day. Is your dog too fat? You should be able to feel its ribs and your dog should have a waist. We have found that we have a different view of what constitutes a fat dog than many veterinarians. They will typically allow dogs to carry more weight than is optimal. This perhaps is because they do not want to insult their clients and risk losing business. Letting your golden get too fat is like chopping years off of its life. We also see lots of hip problems with goldens, and keeping weight in check will give your dog better mobility. Fat goldens are an epidemic from our experience. We routinely get goldens into our rescue program that have to lose 30 — 40 pounds!!! Therefore we have a lot of experience at taking the weight off! It is very discouraging and upsetting when an adoptive home will let some weight creep back on. You may think you are loving your dog by giving it too much to eat, but if you really love it you will keep it at a normal weight. Remember — Ribs and Waists! Can you feel and see them on your dog? If not, break open the cans of green beans! The bottom line is read the ingredients, consult your veterinarian and research reliable resources. Making sure your dog has the best nutritional food will help to insure he has a long and healthy life. Here, from Whole Dog Journal, are some additional links for selecting best dry dog food and the best canned dog reviews. Goldens Rescued Since .They are growing quickly, so while they eat smaller quantities of food than adult dogs, they need to extract far more nutrients like protein, minerals, and vitamins, to sustain their growth and development. Different Dogs, Different Diets Nutritional needs vary from breed to breed. One only needs to look at golden retrievers to know they require a different diet than a Chihuahua! For example, joint and bone problems are much more common in big dogs than in little ones, but choosing the right puppy food can reduce the risk. Large-breed puppy food has reduced amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which helps control the rate of skeletal growth. Also, you may find puppy foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. By consuming too much food, your puppy will have elevated levels of the very nutrients that should be limited. Additionally, overweight puppies may develop other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Good eating habits developed during puppyhood will lead to a healthy mature dog in the years to come. Nutrition For The Outside One of the most visible components of your dog is its fur. Nutrition plays a vital role in this area. A large percentage of the protein your puppy takes in goes towards maintaining its coat. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for healthy skin and fur. Which Food Do I Choose? There will always be those who buy the cheapest brand on the market. Some will opt for the most expensive, while others will simply go with a brand name they recognize. The key is to find the right food for your particular puppy. One thing you cannot afford to ignore is the nutritional content. Because they are still growing, puppies need more protein than adults. Proteins foster muscle growth and development in puppies and lean muscle maintenance in adults, so the more of it there is in a diet, the better it is for your growing retriever. Fats, too, are important for golden puppies because they provide the energy required for everyday activities. You should be careful, however, not to feed your golden excess calories because this will result in excess weight or obesity. Eventually, your dog will end up battling joint problems. For instance, less expensive dog foods typically have lower-quality ingredients. The contents are often inexpensive, low-grade animal protein sources, like by-products and fillers. Fillers are frequently things like cornmeal, rice flour, or seed hulls. In general, thoroughly review the nutritional content of your chosen diet. Are the ingredients wholesome and natural? Does the diet have controlled calcium and phosphorous levels? Is the calorie and fat content limited to manage growth? Does the label state that the diet is complete and balanced? This can lead to obesity and will certainly cause increased defecation. The latter of these two issues will make house training more difficult than it already is. By contrast, costlier dog foods usually have higher-quality ingredients. The scales will be tipped heavily in favor of high-grade animal protein sources and fillers will be few and far between. Price is not, however, a guarantee of quality. The best dog foods for a golden retriever puppy are made with high-quality natural ingredients and have high levels of protein. Make sure the food is complete and balanced for daily feeding and formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. At this point, golden retriever puppies have likely already been switched to dry puppy food and you should continue feeding your pup the same type of food the breeder used. From the day you bring them home until they are six months old, you should feed your golden retriever puppy three times a day. Ideally, your pup should have breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. A grain-free diet is the default meal for golden retrievers that are sensitive to grains, but if your dog is healthy, feeding her such a meal boils down to choice. A lot has been said about grain-free diets. Reports and studies have been carried out in recent years trying to establish any connection between it and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM. That all starts with choosing the best puppy food for golden retrievers. Avoid low-cost foods that are more filler than substance, and look for better foods that are packed with nutrients to help your puppy grow. In particular, consider trying a large breed formula to meet the specific needs of your golden retriever puppy. Good nutrition is an essential part of any health regimen, and providing high-quality puppy food will lay the foundation for a long, and enjoyable life. You May Also Like. Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months.