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If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More The transition from a puppy coat to an adult one can come as a bit of a shock to novice owners and newbie pet parents. Some breeders choose not to mention it for fear of putting off prospective buyers. However, here we will let you know exactly what to expect when your Goldendoodle puppy coat transition happens. Types of Goldendoodle Coats All dogs are born with a soft, single-layer puppy coat, whether they later go on to develop a double-layered one or not. Goldendoodles are no exception. This smooth, silky hair then gives way to something that can be altogether trickier to manage. Knots, tangles, mats, and shedding can become real problems with some dogs. As you probably know by now, with a mixed breed, there are no certainties. Especially when the parent animals are so different. One half of the Goldendoodle equation, the Golden Retriever, has a dense, straight, water-resistant double coat. In contrast, the other half, the Poodle, has a curly, coarse, low-shedding single one. Depending on which parent they favor, Goldendoodles can inherit either of these coats or a wavy, fleecy, long one that sits somewhere in between the two. This is generally the most common and the most popular of the three. For more on Goldendoodle coats and the right tools for caring for them, take a look at The Absolute Best Brushes for Goldendoodles. Nature can be a bit of a lottery. We can, however, make a few best guesses based on the parents and what usually happens. One thing we do know for sure is that whichever adult coat your pup is destined to have, it will be altogether stiffer and denser than their puppy one. It could even be a different color, thanks to the Poodle Fading Gene. Breeders, however, do highlight a few telltale traits that could give you an early idea of what to expect: Check The Snout An excess of hair at the top of the snout known as a mustache indicates that your pup is likely to end up with a coat on the curlier end of the spectrum. Straighter, shaggier, beard-like hair suggests a wavier coat. If your dog has short hair here and an overall neat and tidy-looking muzzle, they will probably inherit a straight coat. Pay Attention to the Generation The generation of the dog can also provide a strong indication of what to expect. See Also: Click the image Goldendoodle Puppy Coat Transition Phases When it comes to changing from the puppy to the adult coat, there are no clear-cut transition phases. When and how pups blow their puppy coat varies from dog to dog. With most dogs, it tends to happen at around six months, and it can be either sudden or gradual. Some owners barely even notice — it all depends on the final hair type. However, you may start to notice a little more hair in the brush or a few more tangles around the armpits, tail, and ears. If your Goldie is getting more of a curly coat, you will need to be extra vigilant at this time. Shedding puppy hair can all too easily get caught up in tight curls leading on to painful knots and mats that are all but impossible to remove with a brush. A good rule of thumb with dogs is that with a low-shedding coat, you have to spend more time on brushing; with a high shedding one that time will be spent cleaning hair up off the floor or your clothes. Which Goldendoodles Get Puppy Coats? Pretty much every variety of Goldendoodle from Standard to Mini experiences some sort of coat change as they transition from puppy to adult. The switch from puppy to adult coat is also less noticeable with active dogs and particularly ones that spend a lot of time swimming. The water washes away the old hair as it is replaced with the new. It is not left about the house as it otherwise would be. This change could be pretty dramatic or quite subtle depending on the type of adult coat your pup has inherited. They will shed their puppy coat somewhere between four and eight months, and their stiffer, denser adult one will start to come in at this time. Do Goldendoodle puppies change color? While your pup is unlikely to completely change color on you, many Goldies get lighter as their adult coat comes in. This is known as fading. How do you tell if a Goldendoodle puppy will have furnishings? Furnishings refer to the hair features about the face. The best way to know if your Goldie will have furnishings is to pay attention to their generation. F1 Goldendoodles are most likely to be missing them. F1B dogs are the most likely to have them. If a puppy lacks furnishings, they are unlikely to develop them in adulthood. With or without, though, all Doodles are still undeniably cute. When adopting a puppy, there are many things you need to be prepared for. Many people choose to adopt one of these darling dogs for their hypoallergenic properties. The best way to anticipate precisely what kind of hair your Goldendoodle will have when they are done blowing their coat is to speak to the breeder. Checking out the parent dogs is also recommended for later generations. However, this is no exact science, and you should really be prepared for anything. We are sure, though, that no matter how your Goldie ends up looking as they develop, you will love them just the same. How could you not? Just look at that face! Learn How to Upkeep Your Doodle! Above: Mini F1b, Curly. Above: Mini F1, Wavy. Coats can vary in color. A good way to predict adult color is to look at the ears of the puppy. In addition, consider the pedigree when expecting a litter. It is hard to understand the complexity of the gene pool when mating. From my experience, red is considered a dilute gene of black. When red is bred with white, black or brown, black is dominate and pups are black. Two red parents, will make red or apricot. However, to carry the true red gene is very rare. Red can often fade with maturity. Many breeders boast about having red as it is highly sought after, but it can and may fade with time. I make a good effort at trying to produce red, but it is more rare. Brown and black also produce black. Two browns will make brown. Red can be so dark red that it is considered mahogany or rust. My Sangria, F1 mini-goldendoodle female is an example of this beautiful color. I do not claim to be an expert in the study, nor do I make any guarantees on future adult color. In breeds like the cocker spaniel, the red will be apricot as a pup, but can become dark red with maturity. Spots can also widen with maturity or appear to have moved around as they broadened out. In designer breeds, the puppy can look completely different as an adult then how it did as a puppy. You may notice this at the very first haircut. As much as we love color, we need to pay more attention to the temperament of the puppy and make sure the puppy is very socialized and loved, especially during the critical stage of development up to 5 months. See my temperament testing page for more information on this. Loose and wavy: This is the most common type of coat found in a goldendoodle such as an F1. They are considered low to non-shed. They are easy to maintain. You may want to brush in the common friction areas such as behind the ears, hind quarters, and underarms. Bodily brushing about once a week. Straight: These coats are considered flat or sporty like the golden retriever. They are the easiest to maintain and need minimal brushing. They will have some shed. Curly: These coats can be easily identified with the crimping on the forehead as a pup. They are most common in F1bs. Their coats can have "loose curl" or "tight curl. Examples: Above: "Loose and wavy" as a puppy at 5 weeks old. This is an example of an F1. Left: "Curly" as a puppy. Puppy at 5 weeks old. F1b, crimping on forhead visible. Right: "Straight" at 5 months. This coat type typically can be found in F1 litters. No crimping on forehead or ears. Left: tight curl as an adult. Right: "Curly" at 10 weeks old. More squiggles on forehead than "loose and wavy" type. Notice the difference. This is an example of an F1b. This coat type is best for those that have allergies and desire lots of curl. An excellent example of a loose and wavy coat. This dog is an F1 miniature goldendoodle from Ginger and Tamale. Some of Ginger's puppies do throw the sport coat. It can be difficult to predict how the coats will turn out as adults, but we do our best to look for wavy features in the early stages. In the end, unless you have allergies, please understand they are so much more than just how they look. You get what you get and don't throw a fit! I do my best to help you pick out what you desire, but please note, I do not guarantee coat quality. Puppies are not an item I can stock on the shelf. Mother nature is in control. Many F1s will develop their wave after they go through their coat change at 5 months of age. It can take even up to 8 months to see the true coat quality. But, not all Goldendoodle coats are the same. Goldendoodle lying on the grass Goldendoodles have three main coat types called curly, wavy, and straight. Rarely, Goldendoodles may also present with an improper coat. Curly coats are the most hypoallergenic but require frequent brushing, while straight coats are the opposite. The curls may be thick and tight or slightly looser. Curly coats are the most common in backcrossed generations, especially F1b. They are quite popular because they are the most hypoallergenic of all Goldendoodle coats. However, they require the most care. Caring for Goldendoodles with Curly Coats Goldendoodle with Curly Coat Goldendoodles with curly coats need to be brushed about once a day. Depending on how tight the curls are, sometimes every second day may be fine too. You also need to make sure that you wash a Goldendoodle with a curly coat quite often. Once a month is ideal for some, while others can push it to about six weeks. It depends largely on how much time the Goldendoodle spends outside. When washing your Goldendoodle, make sure that you get all the way down to the skin. This can sometimes be very difficult if the curly coat is very thick. Wavy-coated Goldendoodles resemble Teddy-bears the most, drawing attention to the breed. They do not take after the Poodle or the Golden Retriever more but are instead a good balance of the two. Goldendoodles with wavy coats occur the most often in F1 generations. They are not as hypoallergenic as the curly-coated Goldendoodle because they shed a little bit more. They are easier to groom, though. Caring for Goldendoodles with Wavy Coats Wavy Coat Goldendoodle Outdoors Goldendoodles with wavy coats can be brushed about twice a week as long as it is done thoroughly. Bathing can be done roughly every month and a half to two months, depending on their activity level. If you struggle with the shedding of the wavy-coated Goldendoodle, trimming it will help. Alternatively, brushing it daily will also make a difference. Their coats are relatively straight, although there may still be large, loose waves present. They do not look like Golden Retrievers, though. This is largely due to the fur around their snout, which looks like a goatee and mustache. This hair is sometimes referred to as furnishings. The Goldendoodles with straight coats shed a lot, making them the worst option if you have allergies. They are also the easiest coats to maintain. Caring for Goldendoodles with Straight Coats Goldendoodles with straight coats can be brushed about once a week. Bathing them is a little bit more difficult to determine, but it can be done as necessary. If they do not roll around in dirt outside, roughly every two months should be more than enough for your Goldendoodle. One way to figure out if it is time to bathe your Goldendoodle with a straight coat is to run your hands as close to the skin as possible. It may be time for a bath if you notice a brown residue on your fingers. Otherwise, if your Goldendoodle loves water, you may be able to smell mildew. This is particularly common in the chest region. Improper Coat An improper coat is the rarest of all Goldendoodle coats. You will find it in F2 Goldendoodles more than any other generation. An improper coat is similar to a straight coat. These Goldendoodles take after their Golden Retriever parents a great deal. The difference between straight and improper coats is in the furnishings. Without it, the Goldendoodle looks nothing like the teddy bear that it is famous for, and instead just looks like a thinner Golden Retriever. The care of an improper coat is identical to that of a straight coat. Helpful Tools for Goldendoodle Coat Care The Right Shampoo Goldendoodles can be prone to skin sensitivities, so make sure that you are using the correct shampoo. Something with Oatmeal in it is more gentle on the skin, which means that you will be able to wash your Goldendoodle more often without worrying. Detangler Like most other Poodle hybrids, the Goldendoodles can be prone to matting. This should not be a problem if you brush them daily. However, sometimes you may still find yourself in need of a little bit of help. A good detangling spray can be used after a bath to make sure that getting any mats out is a relatively pain-free process for your Goldendoodle. High-Quality Brush Goldendoodles have very thick hair. This is true regardless of their coat type. A high—quality brush does not guarantee a thorough brush. But, it makes it a lot easier. It is sometimes all that you need. Related Reading:. It occurs in all Goldendoodle generations, including the F1's, F1b's and mulitgens, and is fairly easy to maintain. It requires brushing at least once or twice a week, with more frequent brushing in high friction areas like under the collar or around the ears. Shedding and heavy shedding is common among the F1 and F2 Goldendoodle generations. Note: we do not offer the F1 or the F2 generations. We offer the F1b and the multigen generations, the most non-shedding generations. So if your looking for a specific coat type and minimal to non shedding coats are important to you, be sure that you choose a breeder like us that does the proper DNA coat testing. Curly Goldendoodle Coats: The second most common Goldendoodle coat type is the curly coat, which is more common among F1b or some mulitgen goldendoodles and because of their poodle lineage. The coat can be anything from a relaxed loose curl to a more curly wool coat. Most do not get as curly as a poodle. This Goldendoodle coat type requires more frequent brushing, although it can be shaved down to create a maintenance free coat if the owner prefers. The curly Goldendoodle coat type is minimal to non-shedding and hypoallergenic, when the Goldendoodle is an F1b or in a mulitgen, but to know more the breeder must genetically DNA test their parents. Examples: Goldendoodles with curly coats. Flat, Improper Goldendoodle Coats: The least sought after Goldendoodle coat type is the flat coat, this is also called or known as having an Improper Coat , it is fairly common in F2 Goldendoodle breeding's. Often referred to as the Golden Retriever type coat, it's easy to maintain and requires minimal brushing. However, this Goldendoodle coat type does not produce the desired "teddybear" look that we strive for and that Goldendoodles are renowned for displaying, nor will it produce a "beard" and facial around the muzzle. This Goldendoodle flat coat or Improper Coat type can produce moderate to high shedding coats and are not recommended for those families with allergies. How To Tell The Difference: It is especially difficult to distinguish Goldendoodle coat types especially at the puppy stage, when all coat types can look fairly similar. A reputable, experienced breeder will be able to tell you the each puppies coat type as well as their propensity to shed. However, the face and muzzle area can provide some indication of what the puppy's coat will look like as an adult. Generally, the more crimps or waves a puppy has in it's face and muzzle hair, the curlier his or her coat will likely be. A puppy with a smooth face with no beard that doesn't have any waves or crimps will probably have a flat or Improper Coat. Always ask your breeder for clarification on puppy coat types to assure you get the coat type and the degree of shedding you want with your puppy. Related Content You May Find Interesting Mother Nature always has the final say Nature work can work in mysterious ways, and there are really no guarantees when it comes to predicting what coat types your dog will have. Even understanding whether Goldendoodles have hair or fur or whether they are hypoallergenic can be challenging. There are some subtle hints that you can follow to help guess the coat type of your new Goldendoodle. So, you cannot always go by what you see when your Goldendoodle is a puppy, as this may change as your dog ages. There are 3 different steps you can do to help you determine what coat type your Goldendoodle will have. Look at the fur around its mouth. When trying to determine the different hair coats that your Goldendoodle puppy may have, first start by looking at the hair around the muzzle and face. This will help tell you what kind of hair your dog may have. Curly coated dogs will often have lots of curls on their mustache and beard. Shaggy and wavy hair coats will have straight hair on the muzzle and have what you would think of as a beard on a dog. Goldendoodles who have straight hair will have short hair on their muzzle and no beard. Sarah Ochoa, DVM When your puppy is firstborn, and as they are growing, it can be very hard to tell what coat type your puppy may have. At first, they may all be very similar. Usually, the facial hair can clue you into what type of coat your puppy will have. Consider How your dog was Bred. Genetics plays a big factor in the hair type and hair color of all dogs. When trying to get a certain coat type for your Goldendoodle, look at their parents, and even grandparents coat types. The genes that are expressed their will help indicate what type of coat yours will have. Their offspring are Goldendoodles. These Goldendoodles can then be bred to make more Goldendoodles. Also, a Goldendoodle can be mixed with another poodle or Golden Retriever. Depending on what mix you use will cause varying differences in their hair coats. No matter what mix you can usually make three different coat types. Coat length, furnishings, and non-curl gene that results in a flat coat all depend on the poodle parent and golden retriever parent and what kind of coat genes they had. How to Breed a Goldendoodle to Get the Hair coat you want When looking for a specific coat type, you can look at how your Goldendoodle was bred. When trying to understand the breeding of a Goldendoodle, you may think that you will need to take a little lesson in genetics to help you. This is very easily explained below. By understanding these different ways of breeding, can help you understand what will cause your Goldendoodles to have a certain hair type. These are the common crosses used to make Goldendoodles. This makes an F1. These dogs tend to have wavy or curly hair. After you complete this first cross, there are many different options for producing more Goldendoodles. This may be the most popular type of Goldendoodle. This means that your dog will have a split between the traits of these two dogs. These different crosses are known as F2 or second-generation crosses. These are considered second-generation Goldendoodles or F2. These are called F1B. This is done to bring out more of the poodle traits in the Goldendoodle. If you want a Goldendoodle with a coat very similar to a poodle, this is a great breeding that you will want to look for. These dogs are also very low to non-shedding and usually allergy-free. This dog will be more like a Golden Retriever with less curly hair. Since this dog will have more of the traits of a Golden Retriever, they will also shed more. This cross is not ideal if you have pet-related allergies. This is not a very popular cross as the reasons most people buy a Goldendoodle is for the non-shedding and low allergen dog. Get An Older Goldendoodle While most people want to get their Goldendoodle when they are younger, there are many older Goldendoodles that also need a great loving home. Many breeders will offer older dogs at a discount too. This is the easiest way to get the coat type that you want since they have already lost their puppy coats and have developed the adult coat. Your Goldendoodle can be up to 8 months old before their true coat type is shown. Most Goldendoodles, you can get a good guess at around 4 months, but these pups are growing and changing that even their hair type can change. Most of these dogs will have their adult hair coat between 6 to 8 months, and then you can for sure be able to tell what type of adult coat your dog will have. Most people get their dogs around 8 to 12 weeks, sometimes before then. While the coat type that they have then will be very close to what their hair will look like as an adult, it can always change as they grow. What are the different types of Coats that My Goldendoodle may have? Your Golden doodle can have 3 different coat type or any mixture of the three. Some dogs can actually have all 3 coat types. These are a description of the 3 common coat types seen in Goldendoodles: Shaggy or wavy hair Shaggy or Wavy coat is the most common hair type, and most popular hair type wanted in Goldendoodles. This coat is a mixture of the two parents. The curly Poodle mixed with a straight Golden Retriever makes a soft wavy or shaggy appearance in Goldendoodle puppies. This hair type is known as a teddy bear coat since they resemble a teddy bear. This hair type will require regular brushing to keep them clean and tangle-free. The great thing about this hair coat is that it is usually little to no shedding making it great for people who have pet allergies. These dogs are usually groomed, so they always resemble a teddy bear. This can take some time and patients for your dog to learn to tolerate their grooming. Curly Hair Tight curly hair is very similar to the curly coats of Poodles. Multigenerational goldendoodles are more likely to have this coat. It is closest to non shedding. Some poodles will have curls that are very tight and close to the skin, but some will have loose barrel ringlets. If your Goldendoodle puppy has curls they will need regular grooming to keep them from becoming matted and their hair from taking over. Some pet owners will have their Goldendoodle trimmed short to help avoid matting. This hair type is the second most popular but is very popular with people who have pet allergies. This hair sheds the least and is the most hypoallergenic of the three coat types. Many people who never could have a dog because of their allergies have found it possible to have Goldendoodles with curly coats. Curly Goldendoodles are the most sought after, but they take multiple goldendoodle generations to achieve. If shedding matters to you, choose a reputable breeder. Hypoallergenic Goldendoodles are developed with extensive commitment to breeding dogs, including DNA testing, monitoring what genes each litter is liekly to inherit, and looking for just the right curly coats to breed to produce the curl people want without sacrificing temperament. This hair type is probably the easiest coat to maintain and is a great choice for people who have very little time for the daily brushing the other two types require. The downside to the straight coat is that they will shed. They are also not able to achieve the famous teddy bear look. The teddy bear look is the reason that most of the dogs are sought after. Although many people consider it an improper coat, the short coat with eyebrows can be very cute, and while there may be more dander, there will also be fewer knots. The one thing that makes these dogs look very different than the other two hair types is that these coats usually do not grow a beard around their muzzle. They will have a muzzle very similar to Goldens. Mixed Hair Types Some Goldendoodles can even have a mixed hair type. They may have tight curls around their face and long feathered hair on their legs. Their bodies or ears may have wavy hair. They often have a wavy or shaggy coat overall. These types can require lots of upkeep, as each section will need a different type of grooming to keep them looking great. On the other hand, these three coat types and the variations can create wavy or shaggy coats that are very cute. The smooth face paired with a curly coat collar is a lot of fun. Most people think that this is very easy to determine that their dog will be the same color that they are when they are born. As your puppy is growing and hair type possibly changing, so can their coat color. Your chocolate Goldendoodle puppy may fade to a Parchment color as they get older. There are many different colors that your Goldendoodle may come in. These are the 10 different colors seen in Goldendoodles: Chalk white. Coat Comparisons Post updated I have had many inquires from families wondering what coat type the puppies will have as they mature. When dealing with a Hybrid it is very difficult to predict with certainty what their Adult coat will eventuality end up like. Puppies go through multiple coat changes before their adult coat finally comes in. All newborn goldendoodle puppies look like Golden Retrievers. It is not until around 6 — 7 weeks when we can determine if it will be a Flat Coat goldendoodle — no facial furnishings. We have produced flat coats with both straight hair and with some curls. Below are some of our previous puppies. There are three pictures of each puppy. Notice the progression of the puppy: the first picture is newborn, the next picture is puppy at eight weeks old and the last picture the puppy as an adult. My puppies are lucky to have joined such wonderful, loving families. It makes my day when I get an email from one of our previous puppy families giving me an update and sharing pics of their dog. Thank you! They are fluffy all over including the face. They come in three types — Straight, Wavy, and Curly. Grooming requirements are brushing daily to prevent matting and a trip to the groomers every eight weeks or so.

The all-natural ingredients, such as jojoba oil, make for a rich lather meaning that no conditioner is required. It is hypoallergenic and percent natural. Makondo Oatmeal and Aloe Shampoo For Dogs This natural, non-toxic and biodegradable product contains oatmeal and aloe and has been developed exclusively for dogs with sensitive skin. It provides relief for dry, itchy, and irritated skin. It will also restore their coat and leave them smelling lovely. On the other hand, pugs can pose a challenge to the novice dog owner due to their skin folds, which can trap dampness, food, and bacteria, leading to odors and irritation. Pug owners say that it is best to bathe this type of dog once a fortnight or so. Some pugs enjoy the water, some do not. Hopefully, yours is one that does! Read on to discover our top tips on how to bathe a pug! How To Bathe A Pug In 10 Steps Set up your space: this means being organized and having everything you need at the ready — the water warm, the tub full, the shampoo close at hand, a jug to tip water over your dog to rinse away the shampoo, a washcloth at the ready, and towels — one on the floor and one at the ready to dry off your wet pug. Place your pug in the tub and use the jug to wet them. Apply some dog shampoo to your hands and rub together to get a good lather going. Wash your pug all over, but avoid the face for now. Rinse your washcloth under the tap and use the clean, warm water to clean their face and ears. Then dip the cloth into the soapy bath water and use it to get into the skin folds on their body, but be gentle! Use the jug to scoop up water and rinse all the shampoo off your pug. If using a conditioner, repeat the process apart from cleaning their face. Use your hands to remove as much water from their fur as you can while they are still standing in the tub. Wrap a dry towel around them and rub them down, removing all excess water. Keep your pug indoors until they are completely dry. The Takeaway On Pug Puppy Bath-time Choose a shampoo that is specifically designed for puppies and one that has ingredients that soothe and moisturize itchy and dry skin. Look out for all-natural ingredients like oatmeal and aloe. Go for a shampoo that is free from parabens, sulphate, and other harsh chemicals. If you can buy one that is cruelty-free, then even better. This means that they have not been tested on animals. When it comes to bath-time, get organized and have all of your supplies at the ready to reduce bath-time stress. Your pug puppy will need to be bathed around once a fortnight to keep their skin folds nice and clean. Any more than that and it could cause their skin to dry out even more. My passion for dogs drives me to share my knowledge and expertise, helping families build strong, loving bonds with their four-legged friends. Welcome to Sirdoggie A blog crafted with love for all dog lovers and their families! This is because this breed poses particular challenges including dry skin issues, sensitivities to additives, being prone to skin yeast infections, and having a dense coat that tends to hold in odors. And, if your Pug is experiencing any sort of skin or coat issue, part of the treatment process will undoubtedly include the use of specialty shampoos. This article covers: Overview of Coat Products: Use and Frequency - A look at what should be used, the benefits of these, and how often to use them. Shampoo for Pugs - What shampoo is really meant to do, ingredients to steer clear of, recommended shampoos based on your Pug's needs, and shampooing tips. Wash-out Coat Conditioners - Why this should be used directly after shampooing and top recommendations. Leave-in Coat Sprays - The many benefits of using a daily spritz. Specialty Organic and Medicated Shampoos and Sprays - Both organic all-natural and medicated products that can offer quick relief and effective treatment of common skin-related issues seen with Pugs. Overview of Coat Products: Use and Frequency Shampoo Needed to cleanse away accumulated body oils which can clog skin pores and lead to bad odors Additionally helps free loose hairs Can help keep skin healthy and properly moisturized Can help treat common problems such as dry skin, itching, rashes, and yeast skin infections Used once every 3 weeks unless a Pug has an issue that requires more frequent bathing Conditioner Needed to smooth down hair cuticles after shampooing Offers a base of protection against external elements Used in conjunction with shampoo, every 3 weeks or more often if an issue requires more frequent bathing Leave-in coat spray Offers daily protection from a wide range of elements Used every 1 to 3 days. Next, we'll dive into the details of each of these to ensure that your Pug receives the most benefits possible. Shampoo for Pugs What shampoo should do for a Pug: Remove accumulated body oil. Around-the-clock, a dog's body is producing natural oils that are secreted through the hair follicles. These serve a practical purpose of naturally protecting and moisturizing the skin. But, these do not evaporate; rather, they accumulate. When these build-up, they block skin pores, interfere with normal air flow, and can cause an unpleasant odor. One of the goals when shampooing a Pug is to cleanse away these oils in a healthy way. The wrong type of shampoo can either be too harsh, stripping oils so severely that a dog's skin is left raw or irritated or, opposite to that, is not effective enough and simply skims over the oils. Promote good skin and fur health. Pugs tend to have sensitive skin, so shampooing is an opportunity to soak your Pug in ingredients that correct any dryness by improving moisture levels, restore health and elasticity, help protect the skin going forward, and work to resolve issues like itching, rashes, hot spots, and other common skin problems. Help free loose hairs. The Pug is a high-shedding breed with lots of short hairs either right at the fall stage or trapped in the dense coat. The brushing you do before baths and the shampooing process can help fully loosen and remove these hairs. What to avoid: Knowing what is best to use on a Pug involves knowing what to stay away from. This includes: Soaping agents. It's easy to assume that some sort of soap should be used when bathing a Pug, but canines can have adverse skin reactions to soaping agents. Instead, plant-based cleansers should be used. Additives including synthetic preservatives, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, polyethylene glycol, and artificial perfumes or dyes which can cause allergic reactions or irritation, and some are linked to health issues including organ damage and some cancers, with long term use. A pH balance under 6. The best shampoos for Pugs: It takes a lot for a shampoo to be considered a great choice to use on a Pug. It must be effective enough to reach and remove excess body oils from deep beneath this breed's dense coat but at the same time be gentle on the skin. It must be all-natural, have plant-based cleansers, have the right pH balance, and have organic restorative ingredients. These are our top 4 choices excluding medicated shampoos, which are covered next : 1. This is an awesome choice that's an ideal 'basic' shampoo for Pugs. It can also treat existing itchiness or minor rashes. Earthbath Mediterranean Magic Shampoo. This contains rosemary oil which is a wonderful natural deodorizer and aloe vera which promotes good skin health. Earthbath Eucalyptus and Peppermint Shampoo. For Pugs that are trying to rebound from allergies, hot spots, skin irritations, or bug bites, this fantastic blend quickly soothes and offers cooling relief. For times of heavy shedding often in the late autumn and early spring , Furminator deShedding Ultra Premium Shampoo can be a great help. This is designed to release dead hairs from the coat in breeds like the Pug that have thick fur. This is applied, left on for 10 minutes, and then washed out. Since this works so well, this should not be used more than once a month. Shampooing tips: Once you've chosen a great shampoo for your Pug, you'll want to be sure to follow a few guidelines for optimal results: 1. Before you shampoo your Pug, go over the coat to remove dead hairs. While a slicker brush can work okay, an awesome alternative is the Pet Grooming Gloves by Pat Your Pet ; there's nothing to hold and the rubber tips are incredible at snagging onto dead hairs from even the thickest of coats, allowing you to de-shed your Pug must faster than with a brush. Since Pugs have such dense coats, be sure to thoroughly soak the coat down to the skin before applying any shampoo. This is best accomplished by using a spray nozzle. Be generous with the shampoo, you do not want the beneficial ingredients to be spread too thin. Young Pug puppies and black-coated Pugs with a single layer of fur may be able to be scrubbed by hand, however with adult non-black Pugs that usually have a double-coat , a bath brush will help you massage the shampoo down to skin level. Massage the shampoo in for 3 to 5 minutes. If your Pug has any sort of skin or coat issues, you can massage for up to 10 minutes to allow nourishing ingredients to soak in. Once you rinse out the shampoo, always follow with a condition; this is covered next. Wash-Out Coat Conditioners What conditioner should do for a Pug: Shampoo and conditioner are meant to work together; stopping with the shampoo can be a mistake that can lead to unhealthy fur and poor coat texture. During the bathing process, hair cuticles the outer layer of the hairs open up. This is great for when you're washing your Pug. But, if they are left in this state, the fur will be very vulnerable to external elements such as cold air or dry air in the winter , and contact friction all year-round. The fur can become overly dry, feel like straw, develop split ends, and lose its shine. A conditioner is designed to smooth the hair cuticles back down to their 'closed' position, thus resetting the protective shield of the hairs. In addition to this, once the real cleansing work is done, via the shampoo, the conditioner is your opportunity to slather the coat once final time with moisturizing and restorative ingredients. This will help carry your Pug over until the next bath. This works excellent when paired with any of Earthbath's shampoo formulas see the previous section of ' Shampoo for Pugs '. The oatmeal, aloe, and additional vanilla and almond are a perfect blend for this breed's sensitive skin. Ky Ky, at 2 years old, photo courtesy of Tim Van Allen Leave-in Coat Sprays Advantages of a leave-in spray: This is a spray that is misted onto a dog's coat and is not washed out. This is often used alongside brushing and is meant to be applied as often as every day but can be done randomly as needed. Though this sort of product can work as a detangler, something Pugs do not need, but these can have lots of other benefits. Let's look at what a good leave-in will do: Offer round-the clock protection from environmental and weather related elements including UV exposure in the summer and dry arid air in the winter. Protect fur from contact friction. Help repel tiny debris, dirt, urine, allergens, and irritants. Lock in moisture for a healthy shine. Keep a Pug smelling nice and clean. So, as you can see, spritzing your Pug can be a helpful part of overall grooming and upkeep. Hotspots are also common within their folds because there is not enough airflow, and moisture becomes trapped, which can develop into a yeast infection or other irritations. Considerations Ingredients Synthetics: Additives such as synthetic preservatives, parabens, sulfates, and artificial dyes and perfumes can cause further skin irritation or other health issues when used long term. A pH-balanced formula offers a gentle cleanser. Natural: All-natural ingredients provide the safest route, and you may opt for organic ingredients if that is important to you. Natural ingredients include essential oils, coconut oil, oatmeal, aloe vera, almond oil, and many others. Be careful of certain essential oils because they can be irritating to some dogs. These may include tea tree oil and peppermint, to name a few. However, chamomile and lavender are two essential oils that are known to treat skin allergies. Moisturizing: Ingredients that moisturize the skin and the hair provide many benefits. They can help heal and restore the skin, which allows your Pug to feel better. Popular ingredients for moisturizing include coconut oil, oatmeal, and aloe vera. Deodorizing: Ingredients that deodorize will help remove tough odors naturally and effectively. Many will combat bacteria and fungus to help prevent infections from occurring. Common ingredients that deodorize are zine, rosemary, lavender, and aloe vera. Image Credit: Selfmade studio, Shutterstock Price Some specialty shampoos can be pricey, especially if you have to bathe your Pug weekly. Keep the price in mind if you are on a budget, but know the formula of the shampoo so you can stay away from products that are known to exacerbate skin allergies. Guarantee If you are unsure if a product will be effective, find one that offers a satisfaction guarantee. It will bring you peace of mind and ease any concerns you might have if it is an expensive product. Bathing your Pug frequently can result in drying out the skin, but it may be necessary if your dog gets dirty often. Products that are not soap-based and formulated to be gentle on the skin will help prevent skin issues from occurring. This prevents odors, hair loss , itchiness, and bacteria, and yeast from forming. Rinse out the creases of all shampoo. If any residue is left, it could cause skin irritation. Dry between the creases. Use warm water when bathing — not too hot nor too cool. It should be a comfortable temperature. To help with de-shedding, you can buy special brushes that you fill with soap. Brush your Pug regularly to remove loose hair. Conclusion Pugs make great companions, and their owners adore them to pieces. But sometimes it can be challenging to care for their sensitive skin and high-amount of shedding hair. This review list highlights seven of the best shampoos for Pugs. An affordable option is the FURminator de-shedding shampoo because it helps remove excess hair to prevent constant shedding from your Pug. Their skin is sensitive so you must take a peek at some professional grooming products to use. But, how do you know what to choose? We have the perfect guide for you, with tips on how to groom your four-legged friend at home. To make things easier for you, we have gathered the exact info you are looking for. They need grooming sessions regularly. As grooming is also a great opportunity to bond with your furry friend, you can try it at home too. Hint: We all know that Pugs shed a lot, especially in spring and autumn. The best way to keep this under control is to brush their coat regularly! Spot health issues earlier too! As said earlier, this breed requires low-maintenance; however, there are some things that need your attention. They need to be trimmed frequently as they tend to grow fast! Check for any infections or teeth problems. If you notice something wrong, schedule an appointment with your vet. Therefore, with a baby wipe or canine eye wipes, gently and carefully clean the area. Make sure not to get any solution into his eyes. A Pug will make your life happier! Knowing how to choose the best shampoo for Pugs can really make a difference. As much as your beloved Pug hates bathing time, it is essential for his health. Thus, you can avoid itchy skin, hot spots or shedding. Choose all-natural grooming products and keep your dog away from serious health issues. Our products contain ingredients sourced from the Dead Sea, including 12 essential vitamins and minerals found nowhere else. Discover our products! Soos Pets. Everything is enhanced with lavender and mint for that pleasant experience. It creates a proper lather that will help you clean even a Pug puppy that loves to get dirty. Keep in mind that this shampoo contains tea tree oil. If your pooch has very sensitive skin, it might be best to skip this product. Features To Look For Pugs are dogs with some unique needs that make them stand out from the rest. Their wrinkly faces and unique coat types are why they require some special care. You cannot just walk into the store or open a website and buy the first product you see. You need to check for ingredients and think about what might be the best combination for your pup — and what ingredient might cause harm. The same goes for both humans and for our four-legged friends. Certain ingredients, such as tea tree oil, are extremely toxic for dogs, even when not eaten but simply absorbed through the skin. As such, you should aim for products that are as natural as possible but make sure to check the ingredients thoroughly. On the other hand, there are some ingredients that are good both for us and for our pups. This makes your Pug a bit more allergy-friendly and easier to groom. Hypoallergenic Pugs are prone to various skin allergies. They have dry skin that is very easy to get irritated. This is the most sensitive area, and nothing that is too harsh should touch it. Also, if you notice any redness or hair loss on your Pug, make sure to get him to the vet so they can see whether he has any allergies or skin sensitivities that you might not be aware of. Still, picking a hypoallergenic shampoo is a good way to stay on the safe side and try to avoid problems before they arise. Antifungal And Antibacterial One of many health problems Pugs are prone to are hotspots. These are inflamed skin lesions that often contain pus. You might also know them by the name acute moist dermatitis or pyotraumatic dermatitis. This is a condition caused by scratching, and one of the main reasons why your Pug will scratch excessively are fungal infections. This is especially the case with wrinkly dogs, such as Pugs or Shar Peis. Things also go vice versa, and fungal infections can be a consequence of hotspots — or rashes and allergies — after the dog was licking them and scratched for too long. Its saliva and other bacterias will cause the scratched spots to become infected. Bathing your Pug with anti-fungal shampoo can be a good preventative measure. While they are not a replacement for medication, they are a good thing to have nearby when you have such sensitive dogs. Good For Dog Hair Pugs are dogs that experience moderate to high levels of shedding. This is especially the case with fawn Pugs, as they have a double coat, with a thick undercoat and a bit longer topcoat. Two times a year, during the shedding season, their shedding amount will increase, and this can make it really challenging to clean. One of the things you can do for your Pug is to pick the best dog brush and make sure you use it at least a few times a week. Another thing is to buy one of the best shampoos for Pugs. There are many deshedding shampoos currently on the market that you can use. These shampoos have such ingredients that they make the hair follicles stronger, reducing the number of loose hairs and making the shedding season a bit more manageable. Keep in mind that using these shampoos is not a replacement for the rest of the grooming session. Still, the difference should be noticeable after just a few months of using such shampoos. No Harmful Ingredients When looking at the ingredient list, there are a few things to be aware of. If you see the label proprietary blend of coat and skin conditioners and moisturizers, avoid this shampoo at all costs. This is a label manufacturers use when they want to hide the true ingredient list. You need to learn as much information about the best Shampoos for pugs, as well as some tips that can help you have the most out of bath times. Here are a few dog bathing pieces of advice you might find useful: Bathe Your Pug Often Pugs need more baths than most other breeds. Their skin and specific coat type means they get dirty faster, and you might need to clean them more often. For example, most dog breeds will need a bath every few months. This is the same no matter their coat length or size. However, Pugs might need baths every few weeks. In fact, during the shedding season or if they get a skin infection, you might need to bathe them every week! As such, you need to find a balance. Due to many wrinkles, crannies, and nooks, this area is a paradise for dirt, food, and harmful bacteria. As such, make sure to clean his face regularly with a gentle face cleanser or some similar product. If shampoo gets into them, it might irritate them, causing redness or even vision problems. Similarly, due to the shape of their nose, they are prone to breathing problems. This will only worsen if the water gets into their noses — especially if this is something that keeps on happening. When looking at puppy shampoos, there are a few things you need to have in mind. First and foremost, Pug puppies are even more sensitive than their parents. This is how sensitive they are. Look for tearless, hypoallergenic shampoos that are specially formulated for puppies. Also, look for a shampoo with a pH value of 6. These shampoos are considered pH-balanced when it comes to dogs, as dogs have a more neutral pH balance compared to humans. Do Pugs Need Conditioners? Conditioners will help your dog get free of mats and tangles. Instead, you might want to use conditioner for the appearance benefits it brings. Technically, you can use human shampoo on dogs. Dog shampoos and human shampoos have different pH values. As such, your gentle shampoo might harm your pup. Also, many shampoos we use have artificial fragrances and colors. These are bad not just for dogs, but also for us. However, while you might say that you enjoy the flowery smell of your shampoo, your dog probably hates it, and now he cannot get rid of it no matter what he does. As such, you should never use the same shampoo you use on yourself to bathe your beloved Pug. Check ingredients, check price, place the shampoo in your cart and make your pooch shiny and clean! Post navigation. Sodium Laureth Sulfate 4. Human Shampoo Human shampoo should be for humans only. Pugs have much different skin that requires different pH levels. Then, buy a product fitting their needs. Does your pug have any allergies or sensitivities? If you have a pug who gets hot spots, raw areas, or flaky areas, a medicated shampoo may provide relief from these symptoms. Do you need a refresher between baths? If you already have a shampoo that works well for your pug, you may be looking for something to spruce them up a few times a month. Tips for Bathing Your Pug When you bathe your pug, keep a few things in mind. Before bathing, you can brush your pug to get rid of any dead hairs stuck throughout their coat. Better they end up in the brush than in your drain. Pugs have extremely thick coats, so make sure that you thoroughly saturate with water before you apply the shampoo. This helps the soap later appropriately. Apply the soap and lather it generously throughout the coat. If you have a black or young pug, you can wash by hand. However, if you have a fawn pug with a double-coat, it is more efficient to use a bathing glove to work the shampoo into the fur. Be sure to massage your pug all over for at least three minutes. Rinse the fur thoroughly. Pugs need the natural oils their skin secrete to keep their skin and coat healthy. Over-bathing can strip these natural oils causing dry skin, flaking, and irritation. To keep their skin healthy, you should aim to bath your pug once a month—and no more than twice. Because human shampoos are pH balanced for humans, bathing your animals using human shampoo is never a good idea. There are chemicals, dyes, and other ingredients in these products that can be harmful, or even fatal, to your pug. Hopefully, you found the best shampoo for pugs on my list to make your decision making a more straightforward process. We spent a huge amount of time looking at almost every shampoo on the market to bring you the recommendations below. There were lots of products that we came across that met some of the coat care needs of a Pug, but very few cater to them all. However, there were two clear winners that stood out above the rest that ticked all the boxes we were looking at. When we were reviewing shampoos for this article, we were primarily concerned about how the sensitive skin of the Pug would react to the shampoo — everything else was secondary. This product from Buddy Wash is one of the gentlest shampoos on the market that has been designed with natural, cosmetic grade ingredients. The bacteria that make your pooch stink are going to be decimated by the powerful yet gentle combination of essential oils and natural cleansers that make a rich thick lather which is something other non-soap based shampoos can suffer from. Carefully blended natural extracts like sage, chamomile, and rosemary work in perfect harmony to leave your pooch looking better than ever. Their coat will retain a glossy, healthy shine for longer in between bathing sessions, and the mint infusion will do its best to keep bad smells at bay for as long as possible. However, the thing that Buddy Wash is famous for above all else is providing premium quality products without the premium price tag. Again this is a completely soap free and alcohol-free formula that has been designed from the ground up to be one of the most gentle organic products on the market. Instead, it relies on one of the best natural soap alternatives available to cleanse and clean your pooch — lemongrass. Lemongrass has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that will destroy any of the stench causing bacteria that can make your pooch super stinky. As an added bonus it also has some mild pest repellent properties, and the formula will not interfere with most topical tick, and flea repellents that you may have applied to your pooch. Like the product above the 4-Legger shampoo has a huge amount of aloe vera included in its formula that will promote recovery of damaged skin and soothe irritation at the same time alongside a whole host of other essential organic oils that work in perfect harmony with one another. The essential oils also act as a powerful conditioner that will leave your pooch silky soft and glossy without removing the oils that your dog produces to naturally condition its own coat. Its gentle soap-free formula will cleanse your puppy Pug without irritating their skin. There are arguably few other products on the market at this price point that will let you get your Pug used to having their facial creases cleaned without causing potentially painful eye irritation. This obviously further harms the skin and makes the problem worse. This product has been specifically designed to soothe the skin and prevent your pooch from feeling as itchy as they otherwise would. Bathe Them In The Sink One of the best pieces of advice you can give to any small breed owner is to bathe your pooch in the sink. Putting a pooch the size of a Pug in a bathtub can be a very unnerving and anxiety creating experience — even for a breed as brave as the plucky Pug. Your bathtub is easily 4 times the height of your Pug probably even more and when you put your pooch inside, they can feel trapped. Put A Towel Down Another great little tip that dog owners of any breed should know is to put a towel down in the bottom of the bath or preferably sink in the case of a Pug before bathing them. The shampoo is designed to be applied, and then completely removed. Clean The Creases Well The wrinkled face of the Pug is the defining iconic characteristic of the breed. However, while these creases are adorable — they have the potential to easily cause a wide range of issues if they are not properly looked after. When they are not properly maintained, there is almost no end to the list of issues that can occur. Dry skin, bacterial infections, yeast infections, bad smells, hair loss, irritation, soreness, redness, itchiness, and general discomfort are just some of the common ones. One of the most hotly debated topics among Pug owners is the proper bathing schedule for the breed. On one hand, the stench a Pug can create leads people to believe that the breed needs to be washed regularly once every two weeks for example. This is where the second school of thought comes into the argument. Like most things in life, the reality lies somewhere in-between these two extremes. You should bathe your Pug no more than once every 3 weeks as an absolute maximum. Due to the sensitive skin, our Pugs suffer with, many people have heard rumors that you should only bathe your Pug using cold water. You should use water that is slightly on the cooler side of lukewarm to keep your pooch safe and comfortable. Remember: What you think is too warm is very different from what your Pug will think is too warm. Any of the products we have recommended today are worthy of your consideration, they beat off stiff competition to be mentioned in this article. Sean Green Pet. Reviews was founded by Sean Green, a devoted pet owner and champion of quality pet products. Sean is supported by a knowledgeable team of pet-loving writers who work together to provide you with a wealth of information about training and caring for your dog. Post navigation. However, when it comes to pugs , it absolutely is. They are known for having extremely sensitive skin. It is vital that you choose a gentle shampoo for your canine otherwise, you may find yourself with an itchy dog. Ingredients First and foremost, the ingredients in the shampoo matter a lot. Generally, the more ingredients there are in shampoo, the more likely a dog will react to one of the ingredients. Therefore, you preferably want a shampoo with very basic ingredients. If the ingredients are few and natural, then the odds of your dog having a reaction is not terribly serious. Of course, some dogs will have reactions to specific allergies. If your dog commonly has reactions, then you need to check the ingredient list and find the common denominator. Other times, they will be obvious chemicals. With that said, many dogs do not have specific allergies, though they may be sensitive to some harsh chemicals. Many pugs react to harsher chemicals, for instance. Therefore, we highly recommend that you choose a more natural option. For instance, many include vitamin E, which is vital for skin health. Furthermore, aloe vera is commonly added. If they have serious reactions, you should avoid shampoos with those ingredients in the future. Image Credit: Ezzlo, Shutterstock Price While we would all like to not worry about the price of products, it is extremely important when shopping. When looking at the price, keep the size of the bottle in mind as well. Smaller bottles may cost less, but they may actually be more expensive in the future. Therefore, you should look very carefully at the size and price. We took into account all of the prices while reviewing each product. Therefore, you should have a good idea of what each product costs by reading out reviews. We highly recommend that you keep looking at the price every few times you purchase to ensure that it is still worth the price. Effectiveness While we do want these formulas to be gentle, it is also vital that they clean effectively. However, there are several different ways that shampoo can work. For instance, while the primary purpose of shampoo is to clean, there are other ways that they work too. It all depends on what you need. If your dog has a clinical problem, then you may need a medicated shampoo. Obviously, this is going to be a bit different than just finding a cleaning shampoo. We highly recommend that you speak to your vet about the specific formulas that you should be looking for. Often, they will have a specific option that you need to purchase. Conclusion There are lots of shampoos out there that may be gentle enough for pugs. However, they are not all made equal, so it is vital that you choose the right option for your canine. Of course, what your exact dog needs depends on a variety of factors, so you may need to try many different formulas before you finally settle on one. Plus, it is also a solid option for practically any sensitive dog out there, making it great for multi-pet homes. However, the bottles are a bit smaller, so you may pay more in the long run. We hope that one of these formulas is suitable for your canine. When in doubt, we recommend speaking to your vet, especially if your dog has health problems. Often, they can recommend appropriate ingredients. Featured Image Credit: KDdesignphoto, Shutterstock Written by Kristin Hitchcock Author Kristin is passionate about helping pet parents create a fulfilling life with their pets by informing them on the latest scientific research and helping them choose the best products for their pets. She currently resides in Tennessee with four dogs, three cats, two fish, and a lizard, though she has dreams of owning chickens one day!

Social media has provided dog enthusiasts with an opportunity to engage with other Pug lovers, while providing an intriguing glimpse into life with one of these dogs. Once we trawled through social media to get an idea of some popular Pug names, we continued our research online through news articles and other content. Famous Pugs on Instagram and TikTok Pug is checked over by vet Photo: Adobe Stock Pugs are a hugely popular breed on social media thanks to their goofy and loving personalities. One of the most popular Pug accounts is Doug The Pug who was one of the original dog influencers. With millions and millions of followers across all platforms, Doug is a bona fide superstar. Doug itsdougthepug is one of the driving factors behind the popularity of the breed in the s, creating fun videos and quirky photoshoots as well as posing with other A-listers. This handsome chap has over , followers on Instagram alone. Did you know that Pugs can make expert surfers? You can get your pug fill on this account along with , others. Jeremy Veach jeremyveach has an account with a twist! He lives in a converted bus with his pug Norm. If you want to see what life is like on the road with a pug or see their adventures along the Oregon Coast, you should check out their Instagram page! Some names are great in theory but tough to pronounce in everyday life. Before you lock in on a name, make sure it rolls off the tongue. Say it out loud. Can you imagine loudly calling for your dog with this name? Does it fit your dog? This is important for both you and your pup. And finally, trust your gut. All pup parents go through this scenario. Teaching your dog their name is a lot easier than you think. Here are five easy steps to take to teach your dog their name. Get some small treats and put your dog on a leash in a location without any distractions. Wait until they look away and then repeat the process times. Want to learn more about how to teach a dog their name? We have an awesome guide that makes it easy. You may find it online through articles like this guide to Pug names. Or you could find the perfect dog name in your everyday life. Here are a few ways to brainstorm cool dog names all on your own. What is your favorite hobby? Do you have a favorite activity that you love to do in your free time? That could provide excellent inspiration when naming your dog. What is your favorite sport or sports team? Sports are another great place for dog name ideas. You could give them a name based that refers to the game you love, your favorite team, player or mascot, the field they play on or another aspect of the sport. For example, our neighbors love to play hockey and named their dog Bauer after the hockey brand. Where do you live? Or where do you love to travel to? Your home state or hometown can serve as inspiration as well. Or what movie you adore. Do you have a character that sticks out? We know someone who named his dog after Dwight on The Office. He loved the show and was a huge fan of this character. The name fits his pup perfectly and pays tribute to his favorite TV show. Do you have a nickname? Have you been given a fun nickname that you could extend to your pet? Take for example a family we know with the last name Williams. What names do you like? Maybe one will be just the right fit for your furbaby! Share this post:. Pug Names Do you wonder what's a great name for a Pug dog? This breed is so unique looking, he or she's just gotta have a really cool name! Do you want to see if the name you chose is on our Exclusive List for this breed? Have a great suggestion for a name that fits the breed? Then you came to the right place! Most of the following names have been submitted by Pug owners. The most popular names are those that begin with the letter P, however others such as Mugsy and Mopsy are often chosen as well. Have fun as you read all of the cool names that owners have thought of and see below on how to submit your dog's name if it is not on this list. Choosing a Name in Multiple Dog Households When you have more than one dog, it's best to choose names for your dogs that do not start with the same sound. Canines often only pay attention to the first syllable that humans speak. If both dogs have names that begin the same way, they may become confused. An example would be "Roxanne" and "Rocky"; both Pugs may run to you when either name is called out. There are 2 things that owners should do: 1 Say the name a lot. Be sure to say it along with all of the "come here" commands. Look at your puppy and get his attention when you say it. You want your pup to associate the name with something good.So don't say it if your pup has an accident, is chewing apart your shoe or does anything else that may cause frustration. Be sure to say, "No" and show your Pug what you do want him or her to do, but refrain from using his or her name at these times Pug Names Starting with A Ab - Ad.

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. We have answers. What sort of dog is a French Bulldog? The French Bulldog puppies for sale Memphis on Uptown can trace their origins back to the bigger English Bulldog, although both breeds now look pretty different! French Bulldog puppies Memphis have distinctive wrinkly heads and huge upright ears. Why are French Bulldogs more expensive than most breeds? The higher price of Frenchie pups is simply because French Bulldog breeders in Memphis Have to spend a lot more in terms of veterinary bills, to guarantee the health of female dogs and their pups. Can I collect my Frenchie puppy in person? If you want to, of course! If the listings from nearby Memphis French Bulldog breeders include your dream pup, then you can always request collecting your new puppy in person. How do you deal with transparency of breeders with French Bulldogs for sale in Memphis? Our goal is to make it easy for you to find out everything you need to know about your puppy, before you welcome them home. We only partner with companies with French Bulldogs for sale Memphis who are committed to keeping you informed at every step. How do I know my Frenchie puppy will be healthy? Every company who joins the Uptown network with their Memphis French Bulldog puppies for sale makes it a priority to breed healthy puppies. Before travelling to their new homes, Frenchie pups will all have a full veterinary examination and get a clean bill of health. You can request these records, and take them to your local veterinarian when you book your puppy in for their first check-up there, usually just after you bring them home. Do you recommend a specific type of food for French Bulldogs? You can ask your veterinarian to help recommend what feed will suit your new puppy as they grow and mature. Frenchies can easily become obese, so keeping an eye on portion control is key! Do you sell cheap puppies? The price of Memphis French Bulldog for sale is a reflection of the time, energy, and dedication it takes to successfully breed healthy, well socialized puppies. With Uptown, you can be confident that we care about helping to find the healthiest pups, not the cheapest. What is a French Bulldog like to train? French Bulldog puppies in Memphis are very intelligent, and eager to please their new owners. They can have a little stubborn streak, but positive reinforcement in the form of treats and lots of praise will help get the best from your training sessions. Signing up with a professional trainer is also a great idea. Is the French Bulldog a good choice as a family dog? The laid-back and affectionate nature of Frenchies means they make a great addition to a family. They also get on very well with other pets. French Bulldogs love to play, but they also enjoy a good nap almost as much! The French Bulldog for sale Memphis on Uptown are all ready to meet their forever families and bring you plenty of joy and laughter.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. You can find such recommendations on every food pack from different manufacturers. As for your individual pup, watch its growth and condition to understand exactly how much food it needs. Birth to 3 Months At this age, it is vitally important for the puppy to stay with its mom. The ideal time is about weeks when you can take the little one from its mother. However, at this age, you can introduce little portions of wet foods. More about 6 week old GSD puppy feeding. A 2-Month-Old Puppy You can take the little doggie from its mum and start giving it puppy mush. At this age, your pup can start eating more solid food. You can add cooked oatmeal or several spoonfuls of canned pumpkin, too. Make them gradually drier every other day. It is also important that you continue giving your doggie the foods the breeder used for at least several weeks, adding something new in tiny portions. It will help avoid gastrointestinal distress. More about 2 month old GSD puppy feeding. You can introduce treats to establish closer relationships with your little dog. The only thing you need to watch is the number of calories the little one receives. If you assume that your pup is a bit overweight, stop giving treats to it for a while. Until your doggie is 12 weeks old , you can switch it from the food the breeder used to give to it to your most preferable food. Do it gradually and without too much hassle. Increase the amount of new food continuously so that by the end of the 12th week, your pup can fully eat the new food. You cannot allow your doggy to eat whenever it wants because they tend to overeat. That can lead to severe health problems and overweight. Consult with your vet about when and how much food to give your dog. The vet can observe the health condition and parameters of the puppy, and recommend the appropriate feeding routine. If your doggy gains weight quickly, it can have problems with its joints, bones, and gastrointestinal. That can prevent overweighting. At the end of this period, the puppy will look more like an adult dog. It means that you can reduce the times of feeding from 4 to 3. More about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy feeding. It should grow strong and athletic. That depends on how much you feed the dog. Add pieces of raw carrots or apples to the diet or as a treat. You can write down how much food you give it for a portion to know whether it is enough for its healthy growth. Also, remember the exact times. However, if your puppy continues screaming after it is full, try to ignore that to avoid overeating. Watch whether your pet eats too fast and then looks for more food. If it is the case, think about adding a handful more to the usual amount of kibble. You also need to be careful about the number of treats your puppy obtains during the training process. Treats often contain more calories than needed, so you need to monitor them. Start training your young dog to walk on a leash obediently, or it will soon start pulling you heavily down the road. If your GSD is strong enough to do that and does not know the manners, some treats can help in training. You should not change the number of meals. More about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy feeding. Hold it in your arms and stand on the scale together. Then, let it go on the floor and weigh yourself without it. Your puppy grows rapidly at this time, so repeat this procedure every other day to follow the weight and avoid overfeeding. Fast growth together with big weight can lead to worse damage to the bones and joints of your pet. Feed your pup 3 meals per day as usual. The body plumps up and fills out. The wist has to look trim and fit, without rounded sides. Still, feed your dog 3 meals per day at certain times. More about 5 month old GSD puppy feeding. You will see when to reduce the number of feeding times. The dog may not be ready for that at this age. So, you can try to reduce the feeding times to 2. However, watch its height and weight carefully. Be sure that your dog is active and energetic. More about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy feeding. Continue feeding the GSD with the puppy food. Though, you can buy a pack of adult food and use some kibble as treats or rewards while training. In this way, your pet will get accustomed to the new taste and texture. When your pup is 9 months old, start adding this adult formula to its usual puppy food. Do it gradually and continue this until your dog is 12 months old. At this time, you can transfer it entirely to adult food. Though, you need to speak to your vet before making such a decision. The doctor who observes your puppy can tell you for sure if it is mature enough to eat the adult formula and whether it is safe for it. Some German Shepherds can eat puppy food until they are 2 years old because of some specific conditions, so you need to be very careful. Adult Years When your GS puppy is mature enough and can be considered an adult, it can start eating completely adult food. It should be well-balanced, with appropriate ratios of protein, calcium, phosphorus, and other nutritional substances for its further development. Do not feed your adult dog with puppy formula. It can lead to obesity, kidney and liver problems, and other health issues. However, it will not be catastrophic if your adult dog tries some puppy food now and then. The number of feeding times should be reduced to two for sure. You can even feed your dog once per day. However, it is always better to split the daily amount into two portions. Big meals can cause bloat, and it is a common problem for most big dogs. Even if you are away from home, it is better to use an automatic feeder rather than make your dog eat too much once a day. Senior Years The representatives of large dog breeds age faster than those of smaller ones. You can observe the decline in energy and joint flexibility earlier than in small breeds of the same age. That is why you should notice the first signs of aging in your dog as soon as possible. When you see something like that, your first step is to adjust the diet a bit. Going to see a vet is always a good idea at this age, foremost, because your doggy will need some changes in its diet. There is a special senior diet because such dogs do not need as much energy as younger ones. They do not move much or do it slower, so the number of calories should be reduced. Their digestion slows down, too, so you need to increase the amount of fiber in their diet. If you use a special senior formula, you do not need to reduce the amount of food because all the calories and nutrients in it have already been adjusted. However, once again, you need to talk to the vet. Do not give your senior GS dog milk bones that are rich in calories as a treat. You should also avoid fatty and salty treats. Apple slices and carrots are the best choices here. Certain health issues may start developing in senior dogs, so they need special attention. If such conditions appear too early, that may be a result of poor nutrition in puppyhood or genetic predisposition. Dogs with joint pain and kidney problems should receive specific diets to improve the quality of their life. However, you had better talk to your vet first because your individual dog may have specific needs. However, if your doggy is healthy, this guide can help you a lot, though. You can also watch the feeding charts on the food packages. Such a chart can just be a starting point. You have to watch your dog and its needs to notice any changes in its weight, activity, potty habits , and energy levels. You may need to make some changes or completely adjust the meals to your specific case. Be sure that such charts show the overall daily intake, but not the amount of food for one portion. You can also ask your vet how you can split the overall amount better. You have to arrange its feeding place and time in a positive way. Fresh water should be present at this place, too. You can sit somewhere around to make it a company, but without any intrusions. Give It Treats You can offer some fresh treats in small portions alongside the kibble. Be attentive to the number of calories such treats may contain. You can find some other variants of treats on the Net. It is an acronym for Bones and Raw Food. The supporters of such an approach believe that, since the dogs are canine pack animals, in the wild they used to feed on prey and certain amounts of vegetation. This food for German Shepherd dogs is the most natural option. Like many other diets, it has its advantages and disadvantages. Your dog will have bright, healthy eyes, clean gums, and teeth. The bones and joints of the animal will remain strong and healthy for a long time. This diet does not cause obesity because it does not contain grains. The food does not contain chemicals, preservatives, or additives, and it is lower in carbohydrates. However, there are some drawbacks, and the main of them are: The raw meat may contain bacteria, E. This food should be extremely fresh. You need to watch your dog because bones can cause airway obstruction or choke. This diet may lead to diarrhea and gastrointestinal inflammation in some dogs that are not accustomed to it. Raw meat can be rather expensive. You can include ground beef, muscle meat, bones, kidney, liver, and other types of meat. Add some vegetables, like celery or spinach, fresh fruit, plain yogurt, and other dairy products, raw eggs, making this diet an excellent healthy option for your German Shepherd. Home Cooking for Your Dog As with the raw food diet, preparing a home-cooked diet for your German shepherd puppy or adult dog gives you control over what it eats. You know all the ingredients without worrying about any additives or harmful components of what your dog is being fed. Some of the outstanding benefits of a home-cooked dog diet, aside from the control you have over what your dog eats, are that this way of feeding is cost-effective, appetizing, and healthy. Most dogs on this diet do not suffer from allergies and gastrointestinal problems. This is a good way to detoxify your dog, and many cancer patients benefit from a home-cooked meal. This is of course another excellent and specific German Shepherd food. Although there are a few, the cons are minimal and include your time and effort in cooking the foods your GSD will be eating. It may be difficult to provide a balanced diet with this way of eating and require some supplements for your canine. Different dogs may have varied nutritional needs. For instance, a German Shepherd puppy requires a diet that is vitamin enriched and higher in proteins, minerals, and essential fats necessary for healthy growth. A healthy puppy leads to a vibrant, wholesome, and happy adult dog. Special Needs in Food The German Shepherds have special needs in food because of their short colon compared to other breeds. As a result, a high fiber diet is necessary to slow the process of food through the body, so all nutrients are absorbed before food is eliminated. If cooking for your dog, choose lean fresh beef along with healthy wheat and green vegetables like broccoli, alfalfa, and cabbage. Be sure to avoid any soy products, fish, and rice. Cooking for your dog provides the best balanced and nutritional foods without any added preservatives, colors, and dyes. Giving Water to German Shepherds The amount of water you give your German Shepherd per day can vary due to its size, weight, activity level, and age. On average, you can offer it cups daily. Remember that younger dogs need more water per day than adult ones. Dogs that exercise or work a lot may need more. You do not need to closely follow how much water your dog drinks — it can hydrate itself properly if it has free access. The average norms are 6 ounces g per every 7. So, if your dog weighs .However, that may depend on the temperature of the environment, too. If it is hot, this amount should be higher. You do not need to do anything special about providing your dog with water, either. Just fill a bowl with a small amount of water. Do not pour too much. Add water if you see that your dog has gone out of it. Anyway, you need to talk to the vet about the individual water needs of your dog. Avoid playing hard with it immediately after feeding. You need to wait at least 2 hours before any energetic activity because heavy exercising can lead to severe gastric problems. Instead, you can offer your pet a slow walk, without running, if it is possible. Or you can start teaching your puppy balance skills and coordination with some quiet games. These gentle exercises can help your little one avoid injuries, keep their joints healthy, and learn how to socialize. Frequently Asked Questions At what time is it best to feed my dog? The best time for feeding is in the morning before you leave for work and in the evening when you come back home. It should be two hours before your puppy goes to bed. Let it potty for more comfort 20 minute-half an hour after the meal. If your puppy needs to eat 4 times per day, the best time is: in the morning, at midday, in the afternoon when you come back home, and in the late evening. When it is a three-time feeding routine, the best time is in the morning, early in the afternoon, and in the evening. When your dog is older than 12 months of age, you can feed it twice per day, in the morning and in the afternoon. Remember that the feeding hours should remain the same day by day. What to do if my GS puppy does not want to eat? That may be an issue, so you need to see why your puppy refuses to eat. If a pup does not have an appetite for a short time, it is not a problem at all. It will come back to the usual routine in a while. However, if the pup loses appetite for a few days, you need to show it to the vet. It can feel bad. If the vet tells you that your doggy is ill, they prescribe a specific diet to enhance their immunity and some additional nutrients for faster recovery. Sometimes, the puppy may stop eating because of some psychological issues, so you need to start feeding it at the same time, and the problem will be solved. Do not try to give your little one human food to interest it. If there is a problem, this method will not work. Can I free-feed my GS puppy? Therefore, what do German Shepherds eat? How often do they eat? German Shepherd dogs are a medium breed, so it is not a good idea to free-feed your pet. Establishing schedules and outlines will be more beneficial for it. The puppy can overeat because, if the leftovers are available, it can eat them even if it is not hungry. Over time, that may result in obesity. With the feeding routine, you can easily manage its weight and healthy development. Moreover, you may have a lot of potty accidents because puppies tend to relieve themselves minutes after eating, but you will never know whether your pet has eaten something or not and when to take it outside. Can I offer supplements to my GS puppy? The commercial kibble is well-balanced and high-quality. Your puppy will receive everything it needs with it. So, there is no use in giving it any supplements. A lot of additives and vitamins can even do harm. However, if your vet insists on giving supplements for some reason, they will prescribe canine-safe preparations only for some specific needs. Do not use human supplements. They may contain substances that are severely harmful to your dog. Final Thoughts Be attentive about how you feed your German Shepherd. Give it high-quality foods with well-balanced amounts of vitamins and minerals at every stage of its life. If these ingredients are doubtful, why should you feed them to your puppy? You can also follow a German Shepherd feeding chart provided on the packaging or in this article. Avoid cheap and generic food. You will see how much to feed your doggy, even if you do not know all about it yet. Try to follow this guide and the tips provided here. If you care about your puppy now, you will enjoy the best healthy and loyal companion for a long time. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Congratulations on receiving a German Shepherd puppy. They are intelligent, playful, and beautiful dogs. But they also have a ravenous appetite. Read on and learn what to feed your puppy, how much and how often. But first, a word on the type of dog food to give your puppy. They need plenty of TLC as well as dedication. Of course, you will need to make a few adjustments in your life to accommodate the new family member. One of the adjustments to make will be your budget. High-quality puppy food is often more expensive than the average dog feed. Unlike the low-budget ones, they are safer, more nutritious, and have stable ingredients. The manufacturers often go the extra mile to ensure every batch is consistent and meets AAFCO standards. If you are a novice pet parent, checking trusted resources for ideas on high-quality dog food will help you decide. You can also ask the breeder or a vet for help. Feeding your German Shepherd puppy on high-quality feeds gives them an edge and helps them thrive. What to Feed your German Shepherd Puppy Like any other dog, German Shepherd puppies should not be separated from their mum until they are at least weeks old. Puppies also experience rapid growth at this age, and the diet should meet the nutritional demands of a growing pup. This is why Timberwolf Organics produces dog food packed with quality animal protein and a lot of calories to help puppies build their bones and muscles while fueling their growth. Feeding your puppy adult dog food will deny it crucial nutrients. Take notes from the breeder or a vet on the nutritional requirements and what feeds to give the pup. If possible, stick to the same products as the breeder for a few weeks to avoid upset stomachs and allergies. You may opt for canned dog food, semi-moist dog food, or dry kibble. Each type has pros and cons, but some owners prefer dry kibble which is also most economical because they perceive it to aid teething. Nevertheless, let your pup be the judge of what they like. Ensure your puppy gets a balanced diet and can access fresh water at any time. Also, avoid giving poultry or pork bones and be very conservative when giving treats. But you can add small quantities of plain yogurt, slightly cooked veggies, and eggs. Now to the main issues: How much and how often to feed a German Shepherd puppy. Many factors influence the quantity of food a puppy should consume. The factors include age, activity levels, health status, and many more. Also, it would be confusing and misleading to suggest a specific mass of feed because the nutritional quality of different brands varies. Instead, an approximate value of the energy requirements calories per day , is better. On average, an adult German Shepherd consumes 1, to 2, calories a day. Highly active dogs eat the higher quantity and less active dogs on the lower side. German Shepherd puppies also follow the same trend. But their calorie requirements will surprise you. They consume double the amount of calories per pound of weight compared to adults. That means, your fresh 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy can consume twice as much food per pound of weight as an adult! Calculating the energy requirements for your puppy is a little complicated. This calculator from Ohio State University can give you an idea of how to figure it out. An average German Shepherd puppy, under 16 — 18 weeks old, should consume about 80 — 90 calories per pound of body weight. The figure is not cast on stone! Puppies require all these calories to satisfy their growth and energy play needs. After all, they are busy exploring the world around them and bonding with family members. As you go shopping for puppy food, remember to pay attention to the ingredients and nutritional information printed on the packaging. The calories per pound of puppy food can vary between different brands and manufacturers. But how can you tell if your puppy is receiving sufficient nutrition? Routinely check their weight and growth parameters, and check against a breed-appropriate growth-and-weight chart from a reputable source. If there is a significant deviation from the standard measures, reach out to a vet and get advice on adjusting the calorie intake. Remember, a puppy carrying too much weight also has an increased risk of developing orthopedic ailments due to the stress exerted on its young joints. Excess weight can also lead to other health issues like diabetes, diseases of the cardiovascular system, and general lethargy. Below is a suggested daily feeding chart for German Shepherd puppies at different growth stages. At weeks, give your puppy one to one-and-a-half cups of kibble per meal. From 13 weeks to 6 months, give your puppy one-and-a-half to two cups of kibble per meal. At months of age, give your puppy two to three cups of kibble per meal. From months, give your puppy three to three-and-a-half cups of kibble per meal. Above 12 months, give three-and-a-half to four cups of kibble per meal. Remember, the size of the cup and nutritional quality will vary with the brand. Now that you know how much to feed your puppy every day, the next question is, how do you distribute the meals? Do you just lump it at once and leave it for the pup to eat at their convenience, or do you set up mealtimes and apportion? Of course, the latter makes more sense. It is also an excellent way to start training your dog. Most puppies start with small quantities and few meals. Therefore, provide feeds specially formulated for puppies. It will help you not to compromise the nutritional quality. At 8 — 12 weeks, a German Shepherd puppy eats four times a day. At 13 weeks to 6-months, a German Shepherd puppy eats three times a day. At 7 — 12 months, a German Shepherd puppy eats twice a day At one year or older, a German Shepherd can eat once a day Not all dogs clear out their meals within minutes. Some are slow eaters and could take longer to finish a meal. This especially happens when the puppies are young and not accustomed to pet food. It is also the stage when your pup can develop picky eating habits. But you can avoid it by following these steps: Serve the recommended quantity Leave the food down for about 10 — 20 minutes. Discard the remaining food after feeding time is over. Do not feed the puppy until the next session. At the next feeding session, reduce the quantity by the amount that the puppy left. If you travel a lot or are not home most of the time, it would be more convenient to use a smart feeder like Petlibro Automatic Pet Feeder. You can instantly adjust the quantity and timing of feeds, and even leave a voice message for your puppy. What if Your Puppy Begs Later. You may feel guilty for denying your puppy some food and want to give it treats or kitchen scraps. Resist this urge because one bite will lead to another, and before long, you will be dealing with an obese pup. Also, kitchen scraps can cause an upset stomach. If your puppy, on the other hand, is a poor feeder refuses to feed or takes significantly less than the recommended quantity for two or more consecutive meals , reach out to a vet for help. But remember that no two puppies are alike. If your puppy behaves differently, they are not odd or unwell. They could be fine and healthy. But you should get a second opinion from a qualified professional like a vet or the breeder and clarify. Reach out to professionals when you have questions and concerns about the quality and quantity of puppy feed and feeding schedule. Share this:. German Shepherd Nutritional Requirements Other than simply minding the amount of food to feed a German Shepherd, you should also consider the quality of the food and the nutrients that it provides. Feeding your German Shepherd with low-quality dog food will cause malnutrition and lead to overeating and health issues like poor skin, gastrointestinal issues, and osteoarthritis. That said, not all protein and fats are created equal. And so, do also consider the sources of such nutrients. Choosing The Right Dog Food For Your German Shepherd Since puppies have different nutritional needs as compared to adult German Shepherds, it can be quite confusing to determine which food you should get for your dog. After all, commercial dog food companies have made it easy by producing specially formulated dog food that provides specific nutrients a dog needs based on breed and age. That said, there are a lot of choices in the market out there. For evening meals, it would be best if you feed your German Shepherd a few hours before bedtime. Mealtime Length Finally, as much as possible, set about a maximum mealtime length of 15 minutes. That amount of time would be sufficient enough for your German Shepherd to eat its fill and will help prevent your dog from becoming a picky eater. However, to get your puppy used to eating dry food, you would want to introduce dry food starting at around 4 to 6 weeks of age. To do so, soften up dry food by mixing it with milk replacer, and offer it to your puppy 3 to 4 times a day. As your puppy gets used to eating the food, gradually decrease the amount of milk replacer until the puppy eventually adapts to eating solid food. Your puppy should get used to eating dry and solid food by around 8 weeks of age. For a large breed like the German Shepherd, you should start transitioning into adult food starting at around 12 to 24 months old. Make sure to do this switch slowly over a one to two week period by mixing and gradually increasing the adult food with the puppy food to avoid or minimize gastric upset. This is as senior dogs typically require fewer calories due to lower energy needs brought about by lesser activity and slower digestion. Therefore, to keep your senior German Shepherd in shape, you must consider a low-calorie, high-fiber, and moderate protein and fat diet. Usually, you can keep on feeding your senior dog with a decreased amount of its adult food or with specially formulated food for older dogs. But, considering older dogs may already have medical conditions that need to be addressed, your best bet would be to consult with a veterinarian to come up with the ideal diet for your senior German Shepherd. As a general guideline, do not provide your dog with supplements unless directed by a veterinarian. Water Aside from providing your German Shepherd with food, also always remember to give it enough water to hydrate. If possible, provide your German Shepherd free access to clean and fresh drinking water to prevent dehydration. And as always, if you find yourself needing help, you can always consult with a veterinarian. Post navigation. Although it may seem obvious, doing this can cause your dog a lot of trouble and is a simple error to make. A German shepherd is a medium- to large-breed dog, which puts him at a higher risk for several health issues, the most well-known of which are issues with the bones and the hips. Joint illnesses are more likely to develop in them as a result of genetics, and too much rapid development is another factor that might exacerbate these issues. Because of this, even though German shepherds require the same essential nutrients as other dog breeds, including protein, fat, carbohydrates, and other vitamins and minerals, you should exercise caution when feeding your dog nutrient-rich dog foods because they can encourage dangerously rapid growth. According to the German shepherd feeding chart, it is accepted that adult dogs need up to calories per day. Depending on how big and active the dog is, anything between and is considered suitable. The amount of calories a dog consumes is often determined by their age, present health, and the amount of exercise they receive. However, even in their later years, energetic dogs will need up to calories each day. How about a German Shepherd puppy, though? What is a German Shepherd feeding chart for a puppy? Actually, puppies consume twice as many calories per pound of body weight. This indicates that a German Shepherd puppy that is 8 weeks old may consume twice as much food as an adult. Puppies need to consume twice as much food as adults do to sustain their growth and development. A young German Shepherd puppy needs at least 80—90 calories per pound of body weight to grow and thrive. Regularly weigh your puppy, assess their general health, and modify their calorie intake to assist their growth. Even more active than working adult dogs are young shepherds. Keep in mind that calories differ significantly across manufacturers and brands. Always read the nutritional information and feeding instructions on the food box before feeding it to your pet. The German Shepherd feeding chart is simple in the first few weeks; up until the puppies lose all of their puppy teeth , their mother serves as their primary feeding source. Puppies who are one month old do not yet have teeth that are strong enough to eat kibble, so it is important to soften their diet as much as possible. Two-Month-Old German Shepherd Puppies start exploring their environment as soon as they reach the one-month mark. Additionally, a German Shepherd puppy should be at least eight weeks old if you plan to adopt one. Purchase the same puppy food the breeder recommended, at least for the first several weeks as they adjust to their new surroundings. As the pups approach their first birthday, their diet will require fewer calories, so you may cut down on the number of meals by two or three, if you believe it will be better for your pet. The majority of dog owners believe that giving their puppies fewer meals throughout the day is better for them since they get the same amount of calories and are less likely to feel hungry at specific times of the day. Even though during this period your dog should still be eating puppy food, you might want to consider obtaining adult dog food. Some owners use treats and training rewards to gradually introduce adult food to their pets, which is just enough to acclimate them to its unique flavor and texture. On the other hand, some dog owners choose to gradually phase out puppy food by combining kibble for adult dogs with it in varying quantities. You must obviously speak with your veterinarian before making any changes to the diet your German Shepherd consumes. Only your veterinarian can tell you when your dog has reached adulthood and when switching to adult food is safe. They must thus be provided with a healthy diet, even if they are raised as household pets. These puppies really like being active, and they enjoy playing in dog parks and other open spaces as well as training. In addition to the other nutrients, the quantities of calcium, protein, and phosphorus in adult dog food will be different from those in puppy food, according to the German Shepherd feeding chart. Bottom Line We must be certain of how much and when to feed our pets as responsible pet owners. German Shepherds require special consideration when designing their diets since they are active canines with voracious appetites. They adapt well to a variety of diets, including dry, wet, raw, and homemade. Giving them too many presents or too many free meals might seriously harm their health. We looked at the German shepherd feeding chart above. For your pup to develop properly, you must be aware of which foods are good for them and which ones they should avoid. As a travel enthusiast and animal lover, she hopes to inspire others to discover and cherish the beauty and importance of the natural world. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading.

Once he has reached maturity, you can switch to adult dog food. Not all breeds reach maturity at the same age, however, so this can make it harder to know when to switch. How Long to Feed Puppy Food Puppies need a complete and balanced puppy food until they reach maturity. For dogs, adulthood depends more on breed size than their age. Because large and giant breeds take longer to mature, they need to eat puppy food longer than small- or medium-sized breeds. Medium Dog Breeds: Medium-sized dogs weigh between 21 and 50 pounds at maturity. They tend to reach maturity around 12 months of age. They need to eat puppy food longer than small- and medium-sized breeds. They can tell you when to switch to an adult dog food and help make it a successful transition. Leftovers in a bowl could signal that your puppy is getting full and needs less calories throughout the day. Continuing to feed puppy food past the point of maturity could cause him to become overweight, which can lead to other health problems. Choose a complete and balanced adult dog food formula once your puppy reaches maturity to help him maintain his ideal body condition. When to Switch Puppy to Adult Food Once you know when your puppy will reach maturity, you can decide when to switch to adult food. If your puppy will be full grown at 12 months, you can start transitioning him to an adult formula around his first birthday. How to Transition Puppy to an Adult Dog Food When you stop feeding puppy food, you must change more than just the food he eats. The number of meals and portion sizes will shift, too. Most puppies eat three meals a day , but adult dogs can eat just two meals per day. A gradual transition helps prevent stomach upset. Days 3 to 4: Serve half puppy food and half adult dog food. Days 8 to Serve only adult dog food. If your dog resists eating the adult food or experiences an upset stomach, extend the transition time as needed. Consult with your veterinarian for more help if needed. For more information and tips on puppy and dog nutrition from our experts , visit our Pet Expertise page. Related articles. The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. The general rule is to switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food once they reach physical maturity. For Golden Retrievers this is between the age of 12 to 18 months. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adults and need to stay on puppy food until they stop growing. Switching too early can have a negative effect on the growth and development of your pup. Golden Retrievers are considered a large breed and reach their physical maturity much later than small breeds do. All dogs differ as to when they reach maturity, which is why there is no one size fits all answer to this question. Can switch to adult food at 9 to 12 months. Medium Breeds: 20 to 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 14 months. Large and Giant Breeds: Weigh more than 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 24 months. He will continue to fill out until the age of 2 when he reaches his adult weight. Keeping your Golden Retriever pup on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months is a good guideline to follow. But, there are other ways to tell if your Golden is ready to make the transition. Here are some other signs that will let you know your pup is ready for adult food: Skipping Meals or Leftover Food Puppy food is designed specifically for growing puppies. It is higher in fat, calories, protein and nutrients to help support growth and development. Once your puppy reaches adulthood, he no longer needs as many calories. You may notice that your puppy is skipping meals or leaving food in his food bowl because he is still full. This is a good indication that your puppy is ready to make the switch. Puppies typically eat 3 meals a day, when you make the switch to adult food, you can also reduce the number of meals per day down to 2. Decreased Activity Level We all know that puppies have a ton of energy, and Golden Retriever puppies seem to have even more! But, with age comes a decrease in activity level. Once your puppy starts to mature, you will notice they also start to calm down. Weight Gain Once your Golden Retriever puppy is fully grown, they no longer need high-calorie food. If you continue feeding puppy food to your adult Golden Retriever, you may notice excessive weight gain. Weight gain is a clear indication that your Golden Retriever is past the puberty stage and is ready to switch to adult food. The transition to adult food is important, as puppy food can quickly pack on the pounds. Weight gain is usually seen in Golden Retrievers who are spayed or neutered because owners continue feeding them the same amount of food as before. The age of spay or neuter lines up to around the time your Golden Retriever should transition to adult food, which is when they are finished growing. Puppies require a higher amount of calories, protein, nutrients and fats in order to fuel their growth. While puppies need the proper food to grow and develop, adult Golden Retrievers require food to maintain their bodies. Puppy food is: Smaller in size, making it safer to chew and swallow. Softer in texture, catering to the softer and smaller teeth of a puppy. Contains nutrients and fats essential for bone growth, muscle development, and energy. Carefully balanced for growing puppies. Feeding properly balanced puppy food is important, and large breeds like Golden Retrievers benefit from specially formulated large-breed puppy food. Most vets and nutritionists consider a pup a large breed if they weigh between 55 to Lbs when fully grown. Large breed puppy food is lower in fat and calories than regular puppy food, and it has a carefully balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus. This allows for slow and steady growth, supporting joints and bones. For more information on large breed puppy food, check out this article from PetMD. Different quantities and ratios of nutrients are ideal for different life stages. Keeping your adult Golden Retriever on puppy food can lead to obesity and other health issues such as faster growth, which can lead to hip and elbow dysplasia. Puppy food is too rich and dense in nutrients which not only causes significant weight gain in adults but could result in stomach upset and diarrhea. It could also lead to an overdose of vitamins and minerals. Adult dog food contains nutrients that are suited for dogs who are passed their growth stage. Adult Golden Retrievers need food that helps them maintain their optimal health and weight. The switch to adult food needs to be gradual, over a period of 7 to 10 days. This will prevent any stomach upset in your pup. Basically, the best way to transition your puppy to adult food is to buy a bag of adult food when you purchase the last bag of puppy food. Gradually mix the two foods together, increasing the amount of new food over a period of 7 to 10 days. By day 9 or 10 your Golden Retriever should be eating his new adult food. If at any time during the transition period your Golden Retriever experiences an upset stomach or diarrhea, or simply resists the adult food, you can extend the transition time as needed. Final Thoughts So, as you can see there is a right time and a wrong time when you should switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food. Golden Retrievers grow and mature at a slower pace than smaller breeds do, and require the essential nutrients found in puppy food for much longer. It is recommended to keep your Golden Retriever puppy on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months. You want to gradually introduce the new food in order to avoid any stomach upset. Is your Golden Retriever puppy ready for adult food? At what age did your Golden Retriever start eating adult food? Share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you! Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. 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. 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.

Louis Mo. Our breeding dogs are AKC registered. Pet puppies will not get AKC papers. They will get copies of parents AKC pedigrees. You can get AKC pal papers once your puppy is spayed or neutered. We don't want to just meet the standard for a license, we want to excel expectations. This is required if you have five females. Please, make sure if you get a puppy in Illinois to ask for a copy of the Kennel License. Our adults are provided with an inside area with toys, beds and excellent vet care. A radio plays for them as well. Most prefer to lay up on their Kuranda beds most of the time with their toys or play with a friend. They get their areas cleaned at a minimum of four times a day and disinfectant is used twice a day. Adults get treats, vitamins, enzymes and are fed daily with a probiotic added for health. We have natural and artificial lighting as well. The dogs even have their own washer and dryer to clean blankets, toys and towels daily. Dogs are walked, given access to the pond when weather allows for swimming, let out to run in the open fields, play fetching and work on obedience training. Favorite thing of most is to find a human and crawl into their laps. Yes, our labs even come into our home and crawl into our chairs and onto the couch. Adults are treated monthly for worms, and provided vaccines as recommended by the vet. Once you see a dog with EIC or CNM you will understand why we test our labs to make sure our puppies will never be affected by these diseases that can be prevented by selective breeding. This area is cleaned and disinfected throughout 24 hours a day. If a puppy has an accident it is cleaned up and then disinfected, this is done so that by the time the puppies are six weeks old they are going outside to potty. Going outside by six weeks old to use the bathroom does help when they leave here at eight weeks old and go to their new homes in house breaking. Security cameras monitor puppies all the time and with this we can see if there is anything that needs to be done to them, while still allowing moms to help with the care of the puppies. Moms need to be able to feel comfortable with the puppies and help teach them the first eight weeks. This also helps make a better puppy when it goes home. We use blankets, towels, toys and other items in with the puppies to entertain them and help them get used to things before they go home. They hear vacuums, tractors, trucks, radio, and other noises as well. In summer time they get swimming pools and if weather is nice they run to the pond for adventures. We provide a large play area with toys to entertain them. They get Kuranda beds to sleep on or play king of the bed on. Puppies are given vaccines, vet care, wormings, vitamins, probiotics daily and fed a good quality feed. We start the weaning process at 3. This is puppy food, goats milk, and probiotic mix that we make for them four times a day. We want to provide you with a happy, healthy puppy and believe that the first eight weeks of life here gets them on the right track. Our puppies are so comfortable they very rarely cry and this is due to the care we provide them. A healthy, comfortable puppy is a happy puppy and that makes them great puppies when they get to go home. We also play with them daily, snuggle with them, and end the day with them fast asleep; before we go to bed all the puppies are sleeping safe inside. Puppies get vet care as needed and a full exam before going home. We also microchip all puppies and pay for the fees so that if they are ever lost someone can find the owners or us. Facility The building that we use for the adults is a new building put into use January .It is a beautiful building that we take great pride in owning, please check out our kennel page for pictures. It is climate controlled and the dogs appreciate it. A lot of time, work and details went into the building to make it safe and comfortable for them to use. We wanted to provide them with a safe and clean environment. They have fresh water, food and outdoor access. It has lighting inside to provide them with artificial lighting as well as outside they have natural sunlight. Every dog gets their own Kuranda bed and their own toys. We buy lots of toys here for the dogs and they appreciate that. We believe that if you are going to breed, that care of the adults is just as major as care of the puppies. Care is not just health testing it is also how the animal lives its daily life. Here at Mabry Labs we can sleep soundly knowing our dogs are safe from any bad weather, healthy and happy. The building we use for the puppies went in in March .It is sectioned off inside for each mother, so that moms feel secure with their babies. This makes it so that mom stays calm and relaxed instead of worrying if another animal is going to get her babies. It is climate controlled. We take moms for walks and playtime away from the pups so they get free time as well. Feed is never out of the bowls, so moms can eat what they want when they want. Probiotics are given daily with vitamins. Blankets, towels and toys are given inside and cleaned daily. All floors are disinfected every time we leave the building. There are mats that have disinfectant in them to make sure that our shoes are disinfected every time we enter. We also use disposable booties for our shoes when we enter puppy play areas. As of we have added on a meet and greet building. This is a secure building set up for puppies to play and interact with people no matter the weather outside. It is heated, cooled, has tv, radio, couch, toys, basically it is a house. My office is in it, so that I can spend time working and playing with the pups. We did in order to have a place that would be easy to keep disinfected between people. As much as we welcome people into our home a home can not be cleaned the same as this building. There is a lot that we do that is not listed on here and I will update more over time. We just wanted to hit some points on this page so that you understand what we do here. Our prices on pups might be a little higher than some breeders, or less than some breeders, yes some breeders do charge more than us and still don't provide half this in their breeding program. Why would we do this some might ask. Plus, people pick us to care for their puppies that first eight weeks and we do the best we can. We have dogs with excellent genetics with show lines and hunt test lines. We have brought in dogs over time to expand our lines and have some of the best that you can find. Most of all we breed our labs for looks, health, train ability and temperament. We have kept back puppies from breedings that we have done over the years to produce some of the most beautiful and smart dogs you will find. We know our lines are great so we have grandparents of our pups here that you can visit with. We've spent a lot of research time putting together our Mabry Labs. We don't just have the genetics, but we have the building to house them comfortably. We put our heart, soul and time into this. If you find breeders charging what we do or more without putting money with the facilities and just buying up dogs even high quality dogs you might want to look elsewhere. As we have high quality genetics and great facilities. If we can do it so can they. Just most don't want a real kennel building as it cost them money and time. Also, a garage with a kennel off the back or side is not a true kennel. We wouldn't want the exhaust fumes near our puppies, would you? Has this upset some other kennels? You bet it has. We hope they soon step up and do what is right for their dogs as we always will here at Mabry Labs. If we are out of reach for a drive to get a puppy here, we are more than willing to help you find a breeder near you that meets our standards. You will always see us growing as everything we get goes into the dogs. Thanks for reading this page and any questions feel free to ask. We look forward to meeting new people along the way and love to stay in touch with our puppies as they grow with their new families. Continue to watch us as we expand on ideas. We always are looking for improvement. A little about us and how we raise our lab puppies. Share 0 Shares The Labrador Retriever breeder is an excellent breed, its beautiful blend of gentle yet energetic and active personality makes the Labrador Retriever a popular breed amongst dog lovers all over the world. And if you are searching for a great Labrador Retriever breeder that would produce the perfect companion for you, then this article is just for you. Here, we list some of the best Labrador Retriever breeders in Illinois. They are reputable breeders that have produced some of the best Labrador Retriever puppies in Illinois. With over 12 years of Labrador breeding experience, they are all about improving and protecting the Labrador Retriever breed and they do this by focusing on the trainability, health, intelligence, temperament, and looks of each Labrador Retriever dog they produce. They breed the 3 recognized colors of the AKC, which are chocolate, yellow and black. Their breeding dogs all hail from championed bloodlines and they are genetically tested and have their hip and elbow dysplasia clearances, heart clearance, and eye clearance before being added to the breed program. Every Labrador Retriever pup is raised in clean and comfortable kennels where they are showered with all the love and attention they require till they leave for their new homes. They are socialized with adults and kids of varying age groups and are introduced to a wide variety of sounds, sights, and textures to help them better adjust to their new families and environments. All Labrador pups are healthy. They would have started the basics of potty and crate training before you take them and they are sold on limited AKC registrations. To get the latest news on when we are expecting, just leave your email to be signed up to our newsletters. Sign Up What Pond Creek Labradors Offers to You If you are looking for beautiful healthy lab puppies that come with a health guarantee, health tested parents and a copy of the pedigree.We work to bring you the most incredible lab puppies that you will find anywhere! We are located in southern IL on 30 acres of land that our Lab family gets to enjoy. There are ponds and creeks where they learn to retrieve and get to swim just for the fun of it. Our labs are a mix of English and American and display the best features of both worlds. Like us on Facebook. Call or text. Our Labs are spoiled rotten with love and care. You can rest assured that you are purchasing the best lab for you and your family that will give you many years of enjoyment. Why Pond Creek Labradors? Best Breeding Practices We love our dogs like family, and when you meet us you will know that's true. We take great pride in breeding our dogs safely and humanely. Great Reputation Pond Creek Labradors has been breeding excellent retrievers with great blood lines for over 6 years. A little more about our puppies At Pond Creek Labradors our puppies will be wormed at two, four, and six weeks. We take care to make sure that they also have their first vaccination at 6 weeks old and will be vet checked before going to their new homes. Copies of the parents testing results will also be available upon request. This is a non Refundable fee unless your color or gender is not available. The Big Day! Pond Creek Labradors was privileged to be ask to help a groom surprise his bride with a gorgeous, champagne puppy on their wedding day. The puppy was a huge hit all the way around and we could not have been more thrilled in helping this happy couple start their new family together. The Family Is Growing! As an update to the beautiful wedding above we were so excited to hear the happy couple had their first baby recently and they were sweet enough to send us this picture. It's so wonderful to see your family grow! As with all of our puppies, we're sad to see them go but knowing they will make such an impact on a person's life makes it a little easier. Stars Are Bred.Congrats Hoover; you are a beautiful Pond Creek boy! We are so proud.She just won her first junior ribbon at ten months old. Way to go Eva! 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. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Labrador Retrievers are fun, energetic, and loving dogs. Adding one to your household is an exciting time! It can be hard to know where to begin your journey for a puppy, though. Reputable breeders care about their puppies and the homes to which they are going. Our list of breeders in Illinois can help give you a place to start your search for a healthy, happy Labrador Retriever. The breeder whom you choose should be comfortable answering your questions and allow you to visit the puppies before you hand over any money. Enjoy finding the right puppy for your household! The 10 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Illinois 1. Over 5 acres of wooded land enables the dogs to have access to trees, swimming pools, and obstacle courses where they can run and play. Empress Labradors breeds English-style Labs in three colors: yellow, chocolate, and black. These dogs are bred to have strong pointing abilities without the dilution of their retrieving instincts. They are active in hunting, obedience, and agility while being loving family companions at home. The building that the puppies are born and raised in is just a few years old and gives the dogs a climate-controlled environment. Each puppy is socialized and loved and comes with a 3-year hip health guarantee in addition to vaccinations, AKC papers, and microchipping. Swimming, running, playing, and obedience training make up their days. Each puppy comes with their AKC registration, vaccinations, deworming, and a health statement from a veterinarian. Chocolate, black, and yellow Labs are available here. They are guaranteed healthy after numerous genetic tests and come with OFA certification for their hips and elbows. Since these puppies are in high demand, potential buyers must fill out a survey beforehand. This ensures that you understand the responsibility and commitment that a Labrador puppy requires. Once your survey is accepted, you can then be placed on a waitlist for a pup. These puppies are bred to be highly trainable and make ideal hunters. While they can be active with a desire to work, they are calm and gentle family companions when in the house. This breeder concentrates on creating Labs that guide bird hunts at hunt clubs in Illinois and Wisconsin. Their goal is to create Labs that will be wonderful family companions, hunters, and show dogs, depending on your choice. Over 2 acres of land are home to these dogs, located 30 minutes south of Chicago. All the dogs are genetically tested before breeding to produce the healthiest puppies possible. Labs are available in chocolate, yellow, and black. Visit our Facebook page for more pics! Louis, and Indianapolis to name just a few. All of our lab puppies in Chicago and St. Louis for sale are loved unconditionally from the minute they are born up until the day they join their new families. As a responsible and reputable lab breeder in Illinois, we genetically health test all of our Labrador retrievers in St. Louis to ensure that we are only producing healthy Labrador puppies for sale. If you are looking to add a happy, healthy, well-loved, and well-cared-for lab puppy to your family, you have come to the right place! We operate quite a bit differently than the majority of other breeders. We hold a VERY high standard here in regards to health, conformation and temperament. We always have a goal in mind when we perform a breeding. Those breeders are not breeding to better the Labrador breed or produce quality, well-bred lab puppies, they are simply producing puppies to sell and make a profit from. We own mostly females here and we use outside males stud service to cover our females. This gives us a huge advantage when choosing the perfect male for a particular female. Each female will need something different in a mate and using one male will not be sufficient for every female if a breeder is true to themselves and is breeding for a purpose. For example, you have a chocolate female but she is lacking in something whether it be coat, bone, length of leg, too long of loin, carries her tail too high, eye color is too light, etc. She is going to need a specific male to help improve those imperfections. If you have one or even a couple of males on your property and none of them have what your female needs, you are not doing the breed any justice by mating two dogs together that do not compliment each other correctly. Breeding correctly and responsibly can be very complicated, stressful and very expensive. Another important thing to consider is health testing. Do you know the genetics of your female and your male? Is one or the other or maybe both of them carriers of a certain genetic disease? Will you be producing affected lab puppies by mating these two dogs together? Genetic testing is extremely important and necessary! We specialize in producing lab puppies from high quality show lines which are commonly known as the English Labrador Retrievers. We have also been blessed with some exceptionally well bred American Labrador Retrievers which can be referred to as field labs. All of our lab puppies for sale are loved unconditionally from the minute they are born up until the day they join their new families. As a responsible and reputable lab breeder in Illinois, we genetically health test all of our labrador retrievers to ensure that we are only producing healthy labrador puppies for sale. If you are looking to add a happy, healthy, well loved and well cared for lab puppy to your family, you have come to the right place! We would love for you to join our lab puppy family and see for yourself why we are one of the best Labrador breeders in Illinois. We have chocolate, black and yellow puppies available now as well as some older pups! We only produce lab puppies in the 3 recognized colors by the american kennel club and labrador retriever club. We are dedicated to improving and protecting the labrador retriever breed. If you love labrador retrievers and would like to bring one into your family, you have come to the right place! Louis and Chicago are a popular choice for individuals who need companionship, active families, hunters and also for the serious competitor.

Also called Miniature Labrapoos, Labradoodles, and Labradorpoos, the Miniature Labradoodle is a well-known hybrid breed in a smaller package. They are sweet-natured and smart, and they love to spend time with their people. They are affectionate with their family. They are also tolerant and compassionate, and they tend to be well-behaved around people of all ages and other pets. Labradoodles are generally healthy and should live to be 10 to 14 years old. These qualities make Miniature Labradoodles an ideal family dog that does well with other pets and children. Even the most inexperienced dog parents find this breed to be easy to train and eager to please. They are too gentle and sweet to make a good guard dog, but they can be useful watchdogs. They are small and fluffy, square and athletic. Long, furry ears are set on the top and back of their heads. Their muzzles can be medium to long. The Miniature Labradoodle coat varies a great deal, ranging from straight to loose curls, and usually kept about 4 to 6 inches in length. The coat may be one of three textures. They could have hair similar to fur in shedding dogs, they could have a more dense and non-shedding wool, or they could have more of a silky fleece. They come in a variety of colors: Gold. January 23, 0 Comments WorldAnimalFoundation. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. These cute little designer dogs can be great family pets and good companions for work-at-home people. They were bred for those who loved the standard Labradoodle but wanted something smaller. This crossbreed is a popular choice for both experienced and new dog owners because of their calm temperament. They get along with other people and dogs and are easy to train. They can be stubborn, but they are very reward-driven. Even someone with allergies can potentially keep this dog. The idea originally started when breeders bred purebred Labrador Retrievers and standard Poodles to make more hypoallergenic dog breeds with Labrador friendliness and intelligence, creating the standard Labradoodle. But as wonderful as Labradoodles are, they can get pretty huge. Both the Labrador and the standard-sized Poodle are pretty big. So reputable breeders started breeding the purebred Labrador Retriever with the purebred Miniature Poodle to make a smaller version: the Mini Labradoodle. These cute little dogs are known for having big personalities despite their smaller bodies. They love their humans and can sometimes be protective of them. They also love running around and playing. Mini Labradoodles are highly intelligent, like their parents, and are very easy to train. They combine the loyalty, intelligence, and easy trainability of the Labrador with the low-shedding, more allergy-friendly coat of the Standard Poodle and Mini Poodle. Vital Statistics Height: inches, highly dependent on parents Weight: pounds, highly dependent on parents Average lifespan: years Energy level: High energy and needs lots of exercise Trainability: Highly intelligent dogs and easily trainable Shedding: Low shedder, high grooming needs History of the Mini Labradoodle Miniature Labradoodles are a relatively new crossbreed. They are believed to have been bred in Australia in the s when a breeder made the first successful cross of a Labrador Retriever and a Mini Poodle. And so, a reputable breeder wanted to mix the Labrador Retriever with a breed having a non-shedding coat. The standard Poodle was the perfect candidate. Both standard Labradoodles and Miniature Labradoodles came along from this need. First, the standard Labradoodle came along. Standard Labradoodles were popular but much too big for some people. So then the Lab was mixed with the Mini Poodle to make a smaller pup. Generally needs .You should have a good decade or so before you have to worry about health problems related to aging. Some dogs may live longer or shorter lives depending on how healthy they are. Lifestyle management can help maximize the time you have with your dog. Be on the lookout for health issues potentially passed down from the parents. Size Miniature Labradoodles are meant to be smaller versions of the Labradoodle. The designer dog mixes the traits of Labrador Retrievers and Toy Poodles to make a smaller dog. Smaller individuals may be around 14 inches tall. That said, the exact size may depend on the characteristics of the parents. These dogs still come from a fairly big breed. Larger individuals may be closer to 24 inches tall. It can be difficult to determine how big a Mini Labradoodle puppy will get until they grow. Weight Smaller Mini Labradoodles may weigh around 10 pounds or more. Again, they may be bigger and heavier depending on the genes inherited from their Lab and Mini Poodle parents. Larger individuals may weigh up to 30 pounds. Coat The Mini Labradoodle is meant to have the Poodle coat, a low-shedding coat that is allergy-friendly. The coat type and color can vary from individual to individual based on the genes of the Poodle parent or Labrador parent. Some coats may have a wool texture, coming from their Poodle genes. These coats require a lot of grooming. Other coats may be a soft, fleece texture. It may be wavy or curly. Some individuals may also have a hairy, straight coat closer to that of Labrador Retrievers rather than a Poodle coat. Color Mini Labradoodles can come in many colors. They may also be single-colored or multi-colored. It depends on the genes they inherit from their very different-looking parents. Mini Labradoodle Temperament and Personality Mini Labradoodles are believed to be the perfect family pet and companion because of their family-friendly characteristics. They are great with kids and other animals and are all-around easy to get along with. That said, they can also be protective of their family. Miniature Labradoodles can get lonely easily, and they do not like being left alone for too long. Leaving them alone for eight hours or more a day may lead to depression, separation anxiety, and the destruction of your furniture. As adorable and friendly as they are, they may not be the best for families that are out of the house all day. As tempting as it can be, avoid overfeeding your Mini Labradoodle with high-fat treats, no matter how much they beg. Like their parent breed, the Labrador, they can get overweight if overfed. Also, keep their age in mind; puppies and senior dogs need different kibbles. Mini Labradoodles and any breed should be kept on a puppy-based kibble until they are a year old to ensure they get the nutrients needed to grow properly. Seniors, meanwhile, may need senior food that helps them get the most nutrients out of their food. As they age, some dogs have trouble getting the nutrients they need from normal kibble and lose weight at an alarming rate. Family Compatibility Mini Labradoodles are great family dogs because of their friendliness. They can get along great with families and other pets. These dogs are also very playful and love family interaction. You can potentially take your Mini Labradoodle on hikes, trips, or errands without too much trouble. Children should also be taught not to be too rough with them, no matter how easygoing they are. No jumping on them, pulling their tails or ears, or chewing on them. Even the gentlest dogs have limits. Mini Labradoodles can get lonely easily and even depressed if left alone for too long. That said, they can suffer from some health conditions passed down from their parent breeds. Some health concerns these dogs may be at risk of are hip dysplasia, obesity, and bloat. Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip develops incorrectly as a puppy, causing problems later on. It can cause pain and dysfunction as the dog grows. Over time it can cause problems like arthritis and mobility issues. Obesity is a common problem among Labradors that can be passed down to their Mini Labradoodle children. Therefore, avoiding high-calorie treats and overfeeding them too much is best. Obesity can cause a range of other health problems in the future, like arthritis or joint pain. This is a hereditary disease passed down from Labradoodle parents. Mini Labradoodle puppies are more susceptible if their parents had it. Do not breed your Mini Labradoodle for Mini Labradoodle puppies if they have this disease. Exercise-induced collapse occurs when a dog overexerts itself while exercising. This particular problem is more common among Mini Labradoodles, so keep an eye on them when running around. This can be life-threatening. While your Miniature Labradoodle is running around and exercising, watch for symptoms like a lack of coordination, muscle weakness, or other signs of exhaustion. Make sure they stop and take a break if they seem to be tiring themselves out. Owners should also be careful of diseases like hypothyroidism. In addition, you should clean their ears periodically to avoid ear infections. Mini Labradoodles need consistent grooming and coat care to keep their fur from matting and getting messy. They need to be groomed multiple times a week, at the least. Daily brushing is recommended if possible. These dogs are incredibly active, coming from two very active breeds. They need a good minutes of exercise a day. They enjoy running and need to be able to burn off all that energy. Mini Labradoodle Training The Miniature Labradoodle is considered very easy to train, even for new dog owners. When all else fails, you can pull out a bag of dog treats to get their attention. You should start training early to avoid behavior problems later on. Keep a bag of low-calorie treats handy during the early days of training. Praise good behavior with a treat as soon as it shows desirable behavior. If your Miniature Labradoodle does something wrong, do not lash out at them, as it may worsen things. Punishments like hitting may lead to fear or aggression that would not have existed without it. Instead, redirect them to the right behavior and then reward them. These little guys can be stubborn and set in their ways if you wait too long. They love their humans, but they can also be a bit protective of them. Teaching your Mini Labradoodle puppy early on that other people and animals are safe is a good way to avoid any future problems like growling or lashing out at strangers. Trust me; you do not want to wait until your dog starts getting nervous about new people and animals to start socializing them. Once they start getting antisocial, it gets harder to mingle them. So go ahead and start taking them out and letting strangers give them treats and pets. Do Mini Labradoodles Bark a Lot? Miniature Labradoodles are not known for barking a lot. Depending on the individual, they may occasionally bark at the door or bark while playing. This breed is generally seen as a moderate barker. Any excessive barking can usually be addressed through positive training by rewarding quiet behavior. They may get into trouble and chew things up out of frustration or just get depressed to the point of illness. Never leave a young Mini Labradoodle puppy alone. They may get into something and get themselves hurt. Is the Mini Labradoodle Hypoallergenic? The non-shedding coat of the Miniature Labradoodle is more allergy-friendly than most. They can also be a good choice for those with concerns about allergies. These small to medium designer dogs are intelligent, loyal, and love pleasing their humans, much like their parent breeds. Mini Labradoodles also require consistent attention and will get lonely if you leave them alone for too long. Make sure you have the means to care for any dog you decide to get. Kelly Smeby Kelly Smeby is a freelance writer specializing in pets and animals. She has written several articles about pet health, training, and behavior. Kelly has lived with many types of animals since early childhood. Kelly has also lived with multiple cats, birds, and fish. Kelly currently lives in Florida with a two-year-old Pekingese and a cat and continues to learn new things from them every day. She enjoys learning even more about animal health and behavior and sharing that knowledge with others through writing. She has a strong background in research, business, and writing from her time in college. Kelly hopes to use her experience to help other pet owners who need help understanding their dogs, cats, or other pets. She hopes her work will help promote better understanding between humans and animals. Leave a comment Your email address will not be published. Post Comment. We are happy to refund deposits any time for any reason. We will clearly announce the pricing for each mini Labradoodle litter in a litter announcement. Apply Now If you are interested in a miniature Labradoodle puppy please consider filling out the application. Years ago, we'd announce litters to nearly people on an email waiting list. Within the first minute or two, the entire litter would be spoken for, and families who received a doodle puppy felt like they'd won the lottery. Since then, we've developed a thorough application process, seeking the very best mini Labradoodle forever homes. Please do not place a mini Labradoodle deposit unless your doodle application is accepted. We seek to fairly and thoroughly evaluate each miniature Labradoodle application within business days at which point we let you know the answer for your mini Labradoodle application: "yes," "no," or "wait. Your mini Labradoodle application does NOT obligate you to give a deposit or adopt a mini Labradoodle puppy. The mini Labradoodle application is simply your first step to express a level of interest in getting a mini Labradoodle puppy. After giving a deposit, your family would receive mini Labradoodle litter announcements in an effort to match you with the perfect miniature Labradoodle. Each adopting family has the option to pass on as many Labradoodle litters as they want until finding the perfect doodle puppy. Seeking to be the best mini Labradoodle breeders, we refund doodle deposits any time for any reason. It doesn't make sense to us why nearly every other mini Labradoodle breeder requires non-refundable deposits. We have FAR more demand than supply for our mini Labradoodles. Your application helps us determine if your family would make an excellent forever home to one of our precious mini Labradoodle puppies. We have no desire to keep a family's mini Labradoodle deposit if they've located a mini doodle with another breeder or if they've chosen not to get a mini Labradoodle at all. View fullsize Both our chocolate Labradoodle and our Poodle are beautiful dogs with excellent temperaments. They are our family pets. Because we begin with a Labradoodle and a Poodle, rather than a Lab and a Poodle, our puppies are much more likely to have the non-shedding Poodle coat. A F1b Labradoodle has been back-crossed to a poodle in an effort to insure a non-shedding coat. Even though most f1b Labradoodles shed very little or not all, it is impossible to guarantee that any dog even doodles or purebred poodles will not shed at all. Hypo- means less hypothermia is having a lower than normal body temperature. No dog can be said to be completely non-allergenic. Studies have shown that doodles are less likely to cause allergies, particularly f1b doodles. The ideal is to keep as much of the Lab head shape and super-friendly personality as possible while getting the non-shedding Poodle coat as well as the dignified, less vocal characteristics of the Poodle. Our Labradoodle methodology is quite simple. First, we get quality dogs. This is why we wanted to have pick of the litter for our Labradoodle and our Poodle and why we only obtained puppies from reputable breeders that we knew we could trust. Second, we try to treat our dogs Labradoodle and Poodle well. We feed our Labradoodle and Poodle high quality food with plenty of protein, and give them wonderful socialization and opportunities for exercise. We have 12 acres along the Enoree River with trails, additional property next to a Greenville state park, and property on Lake Hartwell giving us the opportunity to take the dogs kayaking. We recognize the importance of socializing young Labradoodle puppies so they will not be fearful as they mature. Our Labradoodle puppies have lots of opportunities to play with our children, and water games are definitely on top of the list. Labradoodles love the water and so do my kids, as you can see below. Third, we try to find appropriate families for our Chocolate Labradoodle puppies. To learn more about our process, check out this resource that gives a step-by-step guide between the application to receiving your puppy! A Chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle is not for everyone, and a puppy is not for everyone. If your family is not prepared for a Labradoodle puppy financially, time investment, etc. When can you get your puppy? Because we have only one Labradoodle mother and a couple guardian homes , puppies are available only occasionally. Contact us nathan crockettdoodles. We have a flexible waiting list and offer your deposit back if we do not have the ideal Labradoodle puppy for you within a certain window of time. Sometimes with mini Labradoodles we prefer to wait until they are a little older than 8 weeks because accidents tend to happen more easily with really small puppies. We will take several pictures of you with your Labradoodle puppy. We will send you the pictures for free place them on a USB thumb drive for you , and you will have full copyright privileges to all of the pictures to use at your discretion. You have the option of whether or not the photos appear here on the ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Although we never ship puppies, we will sometimes personally deliver puppies for a reasonable fee. Why should you consider getting a Chocolate Labradoodle from us? If a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy is right for your family, and if you are within driving distance of Greenville, SC, you may want to consider getting a chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle from us. If you read our Labradoodle puppy methodology and like what you read, you should consider adopting one of our puppies. We have a three-year health guarantee on each of our puppies if the forever home continues to feed TLC one year health guarantee on all others. How can you get a Chocolate Labradoodle or Labradoodle mini from us? If you think your family would be a good match for one of our Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppies, then start the conversation by emailing us at nathan crockettdoodles. You will have full access to all pictures and hold the copyright to make as many pictures as you desire. You keep all the pictures. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality collar. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality leash. We give you a bag of high quality dog food. We believe that you should give your new Labradoodle puppy or mini Labradoodle puppy the best food. Instructional materials about crate training and house training. Our goal is to do everything we can to assist in the house training and crate training process. A Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy or any puppy cannot be completely reliable in the house until the puppy is about 6 months old. The simple point is that no matter what some breeders tell you you will be partially involved in the house training process unless you buy an older Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle , but we want to help you with that process. A one-year health guarantee; extended to three years for all who continue to feed TLC. We are concerned with finding really good homes for our Labradoodle and mini Labradoodle puppies. Labradoodle Color To see a list of available colors, check out this page. At ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Ultimately we cannot completely control the color of puppies. Even though chocolate is the most desirable color, we sometimes have puppies of other colors even occasional merles. These puppies, will of course, also make excellent pets. These non-chocolate Labradoodle puppies are also available to great families, but we know that Chocolate Labradoodles are the most desirable. The Labrador Retriever has a short coat that sheds. By breeding the F1 Labradoodle back to an unrelated Poodle, the chances of getting the highly desirable non-shedding Poodle coat increase exponentially. Some F1B Labradoodles are bred back another time to a Poodle in an effort to guarantee a Poodle coat. If high quality dogs are chosen to breed that have the head shape of a Labrador Retriever it is possible to get a puppy that is very similar in many ways to a Labrador, but has the beautiful non-shedding Poodle coat. Both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are highly intelligent dogs, helping Labradoodles excel in smarts, train-ability, and a general desire to always please their owner. If you desire a family-friendly, kid loving, medium energy dog that is comfortable inside or outside, that loves the water and the land, you should definitely consider a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle. For more info about Labradoodle puppies or mini Labradoodle puppies, please email nathan crockettdoodles. Check out our sister site miniLabradoodlePuppies. We specialize in Chocolate Labradoodles and mini Labradoodles, but often we have other colors as well. Occasionally someone travels from Atlanta, Columbia, Raleigh-Durham or Knoxville, but our proximity to North Carolina and the popularity of Labradoodles in North Carolina make Charlotte and Asheville our most serviced locations. We also have some who are interested from distant states, but we primarily serve the Southeast U. Active and needs lots of exercises History Of The Breed The labradoodle has been around since the s as a mix of the Labrador retriever and a full-size poodle. This breed was developed to create dogs with the loyalty, intelligence, and trainability of the Labrador retriever, with the low shedding coat of the poodle. The loyalty and high intelligence of poodles made them a great personality match for a Lab as well. Despite being bred as companion dogs, standard poodles are actually pretty big. They are at least 15 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 45 to 70 pounds. When you combine that with a Labrador, which is inches tall and can weigh 70 pounds, you get a pretty big dog. They tend to be around inches tall and can weigh pounds. They are dogs that take up quite a bit of space! Of course, you can get a smaller labradoodle by breeding a Lab with a miniature or a toy poodle. This is not as easy to do as there can be a huge size difference between the pure-bred parents, but some breeders have been working for several generations to gradually reduce the size of their labradoodle pups. Mini Labradoodle Appearance There is still quite a bit of size difference between the miniature Labradoodles that you can get from a breeder; they can weigh anything from 15 to 30 pounds, and most will measure somewhere between 14 and 16 inches tall. The appearance of miniature Labradoodles can be more predictable than that of standard Labradoodles as they are usually bred from two labradoodle parents, rather than directly from the parent breeds. They will almost certainly have the low-shedding coat of a poodle since this is one of the principal traits that is controlled for. They could have a wool coat that needs daily brushing to release hair that gets caught up in the wiry texture or a fleece coat that is wavy. These may shed slightly more, but this coat is easy to care for. They can vary significantly in color since poodles come in a variety of colors, unlike Labradors which are yellow, black, or chocolate. They can be apricot, black, blue, brown, cream, gray, red, silver, silver-beige, or white. They may also be bicolor, though this is relatively rare. Temperament Labradoodles are highly intelligent dogs. Both Labradors and poodles are considered among the most intelligent breeds and can learn a new command with as few as five repetitions. Their offspring will certainly inherit this intelligence. Labradors are also highly trainable because they are eager to please and love having something to do! They are also reward-driven. This means that mini Labradoodles will be highly trainable as well. Both parent breeds love people and tend to form tight attachments with their families quickly. They are also pretty relaxed with strangers and are more likely to want to make friends than raise the alarm when someone shows up at the door. This is one of the reasons that they make excellent guide dogs or other working dogs. You should always pay attention when your miniature labradoodle starts barking. They can be a bit more standoffish with other pets, but socialization from a young age can teach them to make friends. You should take the time to introduce new pets into the home and let them get to know each other from a distance first when dealing with these dogs. Because both parent breeds love being around people, so do their miniature Lab children. They can become highly stressed and even develop depression. It is also common for them to become destructive when they feel frustrated. Since they are highly intelligent pups, they need a lot of mental stimulation. Teaching them tricks can be a great way to activate their minds, and puzzle toys can keep them distracted for a while, though they tend to figure things out pretty quickly. Be warned that they are also excellent escape artists, so all escape routes from the house need to be secured. Labradoodles love children and instinctively know how to be careful and protective of them. Of course, you should never leave children unattended with any dog for the safety of both, but a miniature labradoodle will love playing with kids, and the two high-energy forces can work to wear one another out. Activity Levels Despite their smaller size, miniature Labradoodles need almost as much exercise as their larger labradoodle cousins. They need at least an hour of active exercise each day, preferably split into two 30 minute periods. In addition to formal exercise, they do best when they have some outdoor space at home that they can potter around in and use to let off a bit of energy throughout the day. Nothing will make these dogs happier than accompanying the family on hikes and other adventures. Thanks to their Lab parent they also love the water and tend to be excellent swimmers. Health Concerns A miniature labradoodle may live as little as 10 or as long as 18 years, which can be very difficult to predict, but you should expect your canine companion to be with you for quite some time. While they are generally healthy dogs, they can be predisposed to a few health conditions that pet parents should be aware of. The first is gastric dilation, which is basically bloating. Gaining weight can be an immediate sign of this, but it wreaks havoc with many of their systems. This is another good reason to watch what you feed them, and consult your vet about relevant medication. These collapses can be life-threatening, so it is important to monitor your dog during exercise and rein them in if they show any sign of muscle weakness or lack of coordination. Consult your vet for long-term treatment. This can also be a sign of centronuclear myopathy, which is not unknown in this breed. Hip dysplasia can be another common issue, which is exacerbated if you overexercise your dog as a puppy. Restrict exercise until they are fully grown to ensure against abnormal growth. Eye conditions including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy are also pretty common, but most breeders should be screening for this. How To Find A Mini Labradoodle Puppy Labradoodles are a popular breed, so there are many active breeders, but finding one who specializes in miniature Labradoodles can be more challenging. Thankfully, there is a big community that loves this type of dog so there are many forums where you can ask around and get advice. Having read our guide to the miniature labradoodle, are you considering whether you should adopt one? Consider the following to make your final decision. This can lead to destructive frustration and serious depression. They do best in households when there is nearly always someone about, or when they can go to work with you. Their good behavior and low shedding mean that they are good dogs to take with you to other places. You also need to take the time to train these dogs, as they need lots of mental stimulation to keep them entertained. Are you willing to commit the time to their development? Despite their small size, these are high-energy dogs. As well as formal exercise, they will love joining you on weekend adventures and would rather be on the trail than sitting in front of the TV watching Netflix with you. Do you have the type of lifestyle that your dog will enjoy? Do You Have Kids? Miniature labradoodles are great with kids and they know how to both be protective and play gently. The key is to teach children how to treat dogs gently as well. They might not be the best fit for very young families just because they have lots of energy and need lots of attention. It can be a challenge to juggle the needs of young children and an energetic young pup at the same time. There are, however, lots of things to look out for to make sure these pups stay healthy and happy. They will bark during play or if they want to get your attention, but excessive barking is uncommon and is normally something that you should pay attention to. Do labradoodles chew furniture? Find our recommendations for the best puppy chew toys here. Can mini labradoodles be left alone? These dogs should not be left at home repeatedly for long workdays, though. These dogs do best when they have company for most of the day. Do labradoodles bond with one person? All dogs have a tendency to bond more strongly with one person than everyone else. This is usually their principal caregiver, but they have big hearts with room for everyone in the family, plus most of the strangers they meet. The miniature labradoodle is a smaller version of the original labradoodle that can do better in smaller family homes; however, they still have the same high energy and need at least some outdoor space to call their own. If you have always wanted a labradoodle, but resisted adopting one because of its size, the miniature labradoodle might be exactly the dog you are looking for. Do you have experience with miniature Labradoodles? 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. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining. Life Span Did You Know? Second-generation crosses could include a Labradoodle and a Mini Poodle or two Mini Labradoodles as parents. This hybrid dog breed was originally developed to create smaller potential service dogs that might be a good fit for people with allergies to dog fur. With a mixed breed, you can end up with any combination of traits from the parent breeds. Often, Mini Labradoodles are smart, friendly, and sociable dogs that are highly trainable. They are often found working as service dogs and therapy dogs and living as beloved family companions. Although they are not recognized by the AKC, the Mini Labradoodle is recognized by other canine registries. A Mini Labradoodle is a combination of two friendly dog breeds that crave human affection and are always happy to have company. These dogs also tend to have playful, energetic personalities and low prey drives. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their smaller size, these dogs can be injured by accidental rough play or accidental falls, so any interactions between young kids and puppies should be closely supervised. Miniature Labradoodles will usually bark to alert you when someone is at the door, but generally are not prone to nuisance barking unless they have been trained into it. It may not be a bad idea to train your dog to stop barking early on. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles may be initially wary of strangers, but tend to warm up quickly and will often be happy to make a new friend. Miniature Labradoodles are highly adaptable. Provided they get enough exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, they can adapt well to apartments as well as larger homes. They tend to do best in moderate climates, but can tolerate warmer or colder climates. As with any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Although they tend to have a fluffier coat, they are also smaller and may need to bundle up in some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks in the cold. Mini Labradoodles are also very much companion breeds. They bond closely with their families and thrive on being near them, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. The health of the parents and good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Mini Labradoodle puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done to help allay any concerns you may have. Miniature Labradoodles tend to be highly intelligent and eager to please. This generally makes them easy to train and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. In fact, their parent breeds are considered some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. These dogs respond best to consistent training and positive reinforcement. Puppy training classes can ensure that owners of any experience level learn the latest training techniques and start building a strong bond with their puppy. Grooming requirements with a Mini Labradoodle can vary. On the Poodle side, you have a low-shedding, but high-maintenance, coat that needs daily brushing along with trimming and grooming every weeks. On the Lab side, you have a higher shedding coat that is more low-maintenance, requiring some weekly brushing or brushing a few times a week and intermittent bathing. Overall, Mini Labradoodles range from having a non- to low-shedding coat. They can have one coat type or the other, or a combination of both of them. So, you will want to be prepared for brushing a coat a few times a week and the possibility of more grooming needs. Regardless of coat type, there are some other general grooming tasks you can count on. Regular dental care for your dog will help prevent serious dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay later in life. This is especially important for dog breeds with floppy ears as they are more prone to developing ear infections. Miniature Labradoodles can be high-energy dogs. In general, they require daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity to be happy and healthy. Since they love to be around their family and can have an exuberant and outgoing personality, they will likely be up for more playtime if you are. This little dog may get tired more easily at times and could push themselves too far in their excitement. On the other hand, they may just keep going and going with no signs of slowing down. What is most important is making sure your Miniature Labradoodle gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. Fully-grown Mini Labradoodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Miniature Labradoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Labradoodle Article.

Havapoo vs Shih Poo Comparison The Havapoo and the Shih Poo are two fantastic doodle dogs that know no limit when it comes to loving their humans. They are sweet, cuddly, and playful, and they love being with their people more than anything else. Both of these small doodle breeds are renowned for their intelligence, toy-like appearance, and darling nature. If your dream is to be the pet parent of a gorgeous bundle of joy, one that will impress you with.Welcome to the exciting world of doodle puppies! If you're considering adding a new fur baby family member, you're in for a treat. Doodle puppies are simply amazing. They are friendly, loving, and playful dogs that are perfect for families with children. With so many different types of doodle breeds available, one more adorable than the next it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. But don't worry, we're here to help! Cute and cuddly, clever and attentive, these adorable pups make wonderful family companion pets. Shih Poo puppies are adorable, joyful little teddy bears who love to play and cuddle. Precious, fluffy and small, Shih Poos have an average weight between 8 and 18 pounds with an average height between 8 to 17 inches. Shih Tzus are believed to have originated in Tibet as early as AD. They are also considered one of the oldest dogs in existence today. The Poodle was first bred in Germany and has served as a water retriever for hunters. Their alert minds mind allows them to be considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds that exist today. Shih-Poos originated about the same time as most other designer dogs, which was in the late s. They are smart, loyal, alert, and dedicated dogs that have pleasant personalities and kind temperaments. Shih-Poos make marvelous companion dogs and fit in easily with families that have children and other pets in the house. They also adapt well to apartment-style living or conventional housing. This breed is very well-liked and will make a great fit in any family. Shih Poos are found in many colors. This includes apricot, black, tan and black, brown, cream, red sable, and white. In some instances, puppies from the same litter can have significantly different colors and types of coats. Some inherit a wool coat from the Poodle or the longer and straighter coat of the Shih Tzu. Thanks to their hypoallergenic coats, they do well in families that have people who suffer from allergies. Routine daily brushing is a good way to keep this dog looking his best. A bi-weekly bath is also suggested, as is routine teeth cleaning. Keeping your Shih Pooh puppy well-fed is very important. This breed is known to have hypoglycemia, which is low blood sugar levels. To keep this puppy feeling his best, feed him smaller meals four to six times a day up until the age of six months. After reaching the age of six months, two meals a day spaced apart in twelve-hour intervals is fine. It is also important to brush his teeth at least three times each week. This is a very good way to prevent health issues down the road. Another recommended tip is to make sure his nails are clipped on a routine basis. This will allow your puppy to feel great. The Shih Poo stands between eight to eighteen inches tall at maturity. They average a weight of thirteen to twenty pounds. Shih Poohs have an average lifespan from twelve to fifteen years. Fact: The Shih Pooh gets along well with other pets in the home. Even cats! Fact: The oldest living Shih Pooh was 21 years old. They do not give off allergies. Are they good with children? They are suitable for older children who will not injure them and also for retired seniors with all the time and love in the world to give. Do they eat a lot? Shih Poos hardly reject food, and they have a high tendency to be overweight, so keep them on healthy diets. Where can I get a Shih Poo? Are Shih Poos good with other pets? They are pet-friendly and very accepting of other pets. How do you potty train a Shih Poo? Start by picking a spot and a phrase to make them go. Repeat the phrase when you want them to pee or poo, and be sure to reward them for it. What is Shih Poos daily feeding requirement? Every day, Shih Poos eat one cup of high-quality dry food split into two meals with clean water. Shih Poos are confident, smart, loyal, and active. They make excellent companions and crave attention. What is Shih Poos average weight? This depends on their parent breeds. Shih Poos averagely weigh eight to eighteen pounds four to eight kilograms. What is Shih Poo life expectancy? The Shih Poo has an average lifespan of ten to eighteen years. One Shih Poo was recorded to have lived up to twenty-one years! Are you interested in purchasing a Shih Poo? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.