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Yet underneath that strong and active exterior is a lot of labor and commitment to protecting their loved ones. When it comes to maintaining their health, you need to understand how much to feed a Boxer puppy. We have included a Boxer puppy feeding chart to help you take care of this breed. The daily food intake for a Boxer may range from one cup to four cups. Meal sizes for Boxers depend not just on weight but also on the sort of food they eat. Due to their medium size, boxer puppies need three daily meals and around four cups of food every day. Keep in mind that RER is only a rough estimate of how many calories your dog requires per day; other variables, including their age and activity level, will need to be included in as well. Keeping the puppy clean and warm is essential during this time, as is giving it enough milk or formula to help it thrive. Choose a premium puppy food that has been developed with their unique nutritional requirements in mind. Provide modest, regular meals three to four times a day. At the beginning, feed the puppy just a quarter to a half cup every day, and gradually increase the quantity as it grows. Always have clean water available, and keep an eye out for any symptoms of food intolerance or gastrointestinal distress. To keep them healthy, give them high-quality puppy food in many little meals throughout the day. Exercise, socializing, and the introduction of obedience training should all be high priorities. Keep a close eye on their eating habits and weight gain, and alter their food intake accordingly. This is a pivotal time for training and socializing, so be sure you provide lots of both. It is important to keep feeding them three times a day, and to stick with a high-quality puppy food. Provide around 2 and a half cups of food daily, split between three meals. Starting now is a great opportunity to introduce more advanced training methods like obedience or agility programs. Throughout a day, give them around 2 and a half cups of food. This is a pivotal time for further education and integration into society. Feed them around two and a half to three cups each day. Throughout this phase, they are still learning new skills and interacting with others, making it an essential part of their development. Provide two meals daily, adjusting the quantity of food based on their weight. Maintain a program of regular exercise and training, and watch out for any signs of age-related health decline. Boxer pups need a high-protein, moderate-fat diet for optimal growth and energy. Bone health may be supported by making sure the meal has enough calcium and phosphorus. Depending on its age and degree of activity, the calorie requirements of a Boxer puppy may range from around to 1, per day. A Boxer puppy requires between — calories per day when they are 8 weeks old, and — calories per day when they are 6 months old. Authentic meats and seafood, whole grains, and produce should all be included as ingredients on the label. Puppies of different ages have different dietary needs and feeding schedules. A Boxer puppy of 6 weeks old has to be fed times a day, with each meal consisting of only a few bites. Puppies need to be fed three times a day until they are three months old, then twice a day until they are 12 months old. Training and housebreaking are aided by establishing a consistent eating pattern. Yet, the two are not identical. Dry kibble offers the advantages of being portable, simple to store, and lasting for a long time. Crunchy kibble is good for your teeth because it encourages chewing, which may reduce plaque. Yet, some pups may prefer wet food because to its increased moisture content and inherent tastiness. In addition, it may help you stay hydrated, which is crucial to your health. The preference and dietary requirements of each puppy are unique, thus the choice between kibble and wet food must be made carefully. An animal hospital is the best place to get advice on what to feed a Boxer adult dog. Many factors might be at play if a Boxer puppy suddenly stops eating. Illness, stress, dental issues, and even just a change in habit may all cause lack of appetite in Boxer pups. Sometimes getting a puppy to eat may be as simple as presenting a more appetizing food, feeding it by hand, or making mealtime less of a stressful experience. Leaving food available for a puppy to graze on all day is considered free feeding, which is not advised for Boxer pups. Since free-feeding might induce overeating and weight gain, it is not recommended for Boxer pups. High-quality protein from genuine chicken initially supports muscular growth. This natural dog food has all the nutrition your puppy needs with whole grains, garden vegetables, and fruit. Pros Real chicken first ingredient for protein Contains DHA and ARA for cognitive function Wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit A blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals No chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy 2. Real chicken is the first ingredient in this tasty, nutritious puppy chow, delivering protein for strong muscles and a healthy heart. It also has a SmartBlend of high-quality, readily digested omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals for a lustrous coat and healthy skin. Four antioxidant sources for strong immune system High-quality, easily digestible ingredients. Delicious crunchy bites and tender meaty morsels. Cons Contains some corn and wheat 3. This high-quality kibble for pups under 1 year old has actual chicken as the first ingredient and no chicken by-product meal, maize, wheat, or soy. Omega-3 fatty acids like DHA help brain and ocular development and deliver protein. Pros High-quality protein for muscle development and growth No GMO, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy. Brain and eye growth from omega-3 fatty acids like DHA. This formula contains high-quality protein from lamb and omegarich fish oil to create lean muscles and enhance brain and eyesight development. Pros Protein-rich lamb is the first component. Omega-3 fish oil DHA for puppy brain and visual development. Calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals for bones and teeth, Vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat Cons Lamb, may not suit all pups 5. Pros Flaxseed and salmon oil contain omega-3 fatty acids Grain-free Created by vets with protein, fat, and minerals Cons Not for ingredient-allergic pets. Raw feeding a Boxer puppy is a contentious issue with no clear consensus on whether or not it is healthy for the dog. Yet, some owners and vets are worried about the potential for bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances in a raw diet, despite the fact that others feel it might give advantages including better digestion and coat health. Also, choose a reliable raw food supplier. The typical growth rate for a Boxer puppy is pounds per week for the first several months of life. A Boxer puppy, depending on its size and gender, may gain pounds by the time it is 6 months old. To make sure your Boxer puppy is developing normally, keep an eye on his or her size and weight. A constant supply of cool, fresh water is essential for the health of a Boxer puppy. Puppy development necessitates that they consume more water than an adult dog would. Puppies need half an ounce to an ounce of water per pound of body weight every day. A Boxer puppy weighing 20 pounds, for instance, should need 10 to 20 ounces of water each day. Puppy water consumption should be closely monitored to prevent dehydration. 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. Your dog may suffer from indigestion if they are fed too late at night. A Boxer may struggle to acquire weight at times. Having three meals each day, including snacks, can help during this time. Adult Boxers should be fed in the morning, noon, and evening. Scheduled feeding times should be established early on to prevent weight-related diseases. Adult Boxers on a two-meal diet should eat in the morning and evening. Never let your dog exercise vigorously after a large meal, especially if they eat rapidly. This prevents bloating , intestinal obstruction, and other serious digestive problems. Introduce fewer carbs and consider nourishing their intestines and giving them micronutrients that help fight off disease-causing microorganisms. The following is a top-notch selection of Boxer food: Dry Food: Your best bet is to feed your Boxer dog grain-free kibble or dry kibble. Some even advocate dog food with human-grade ingredients. High-quality kibble containing animal protein formulated specifically for the growth and development of lean muscle mass in Boxers. Wet Food: Wet food is another commercial dog food option. If you want raw feeding for your Boxer, be sure to consult a veterinarian first, as raw diets can be tricky to prepare. Home-Cooked Diet: Aside from raw food, you can feed your Boxer home-cooked food as well. Always get your meat and other ingredients from reputable butchers and merchants to avoid potential problems. There are benefits and drawbacks to each of these dog food options mentioned above. But, for the most part, these are the best food options for the Boxer. If you are in doubt, seek the advice of an animal nutritionist or veterinarian. However, Boxers are susceptible to skin allergies caused by these products. To have a grain-free diet for your dog, you should look out for ingredients like brown rice, wheat, corn, and barley. Chocolate: While chocolate is a delicious treat for us humans, it can be harmful to your Boxer. The stimulants in chocolates, known as methylxanthines , make them toxic for dogs. It could be fatal if your dog has consumed cocoa powder, cocoa butter, or cooking chocolate. Fatty Meals: Pancreatitis outbreaks in dogs can be blamed on fatty meals. A veterinarian should always be consulted before feeding a dog a new diet. Call a veterinarian immediately if you believe that your Boxer dog has consumed something hazardous. Some dogs may have stomach upset and even appetite loss if you suddenly switch to a new high-quality food or diet. This shift should occur within a five- to seven-day time window. American Kennel Club AKC advocates starting with 25 percent of the new food for your Boxer and gradually increasing it until all of the old food has been replaced with fresh food, based on the same ratio. Below is a table showing what the AKC recommends as a standard diet transition plan for most dog breeds, including Boxers: Day. Besides a nutritious diet, Boxer owners must know the right time to feed their pups. Boxer puppy feeding schedule is made easy with this Boxer feeding chart. Larger and stronger Boxer pups push their weaker siblings aside to get the most food. This is why many Boxer breeders and owners make sure that all puppies get enough food. Two week old tiny Boxer puppies are new to this world and rely completely on the Boxer mother. They should always stay with their mother because her breast milk is their main and only source of nutritious food. During this period, two week old Boxer puppies open their eyes for the first time. However, they are still dependent on the Boxer mommy. Even though they are double the size at three weeks of age, Boxer pups are still nursing. During the period between four to six weeks, their teeth grow bigger and the Boxer mommy will wean them off soon. At four weeks of age, the Boxer mother starts weaning her puppies. To help the Boxer puppy transition from milk to store-bought puppy food, it is time that you try making puppy mush. Try offering your Boxer pup this mixture up to four times per day but make sure not to overfeed it. Too much puppy mush can cause your Boxer pup loose stools and diarrhea. However, most Boxer puppies will need some time to fully get used to their new diet. That said, you will need to soften the puppy food that your seven week old Boxer puppy is eating. You should give your Boxer puppies high-quality food three to four times a day. Boxer puppies at this age love to eat, so make sure not to overfeed them two cups per day. This means that your Boxer puppy is totally ready for proper mealtime! The feeding schedule should include: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They will also have more energy, which may necessitate consuming more calories or eating larger portions. Its little body needs all the nutrients from high quality food it can get. At this point, your Boxer puppy eats twice the amount of food an adult Boxer dog would eat. Even though your eleven week old Boxer puppy has an enormous appetite, you must not leave food to its own will. So, every time it is done eating, you should pick up the leftover dog food. Make sure to separate the amount of food in 3 to 4 smaller portions through the day. At six months of age, the Boxer puppy is growing rapidly and you might want to consider home-cooked dog food or introducing it to a raw diet. High-quality commercial dog food is packed with necessary nutrients, but nothing can replace a good home-cooked meal! The period between seven to twelve months of age is when you will want to give your Boxer puppy less food than you would feed a 5 month old Boxer. At twelve months of age, Boxer puppies will do well with two meals per day. However, this depends on the health state and development of your Boxer puppy. If the Boxer pup is more on the skinny side, then you should feed it more food than described in feeding charts. Just make sure to ask your vet to help you develop a balanced diet for your Boxer pup. Fully grown male adult Boxer dogs reach between 65 to 80 pounds, whereas adult female Boxer dogs weigh a bit less, reaching anywhere from 50 to 65 pounds. Adult Boxer dogs should be fed two meals per day — breakfast and dinner. The most important thing is to take away leftover dog food when your Boxer dog is done eating. Due to the fact that the Boxer dog breed is prone to bloating a life-threatening condition , owners and breeders should be cautious around feeding them too much food. If you have owned Boxers or if you are currently a proud owner of the Boxer, then you know how highly energetic these pooches are. Well, due to their high energy levels, Boxers require a lot of exercise. With frequent exercise comes heavy calorie burning after which your Boxer dog needs more food! Besides high energy levels, Boxer dogs are medium breed dogs that inherit faster metabolism than an average medium-sized dog. That said, Boxer dogs require food that is rich in calories and nutrients to make up for the energy that they use during the day. The best Boxer food will be one that is made for active dogs and includes all the vitamins and minerals they require to stay healthy and fit. Young Boxer puppies should eat more than a cup per day, while older Boxer puppies can consume up to three cups daily because their nutritional needs are higher. Adult Boxers require about 40 fewer calories per pound of body weight than puppies. That said, daily food intake for adult Boxer dogs typically ranges from 3 to 5 cups, depending on their weight. Adult Boxer dogs should be fed twice a day, while Boxer puppies must be fed 3 to 4 meals per day. All dog breeds require basic ingredients in dog food such as protein, carbs, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. But the Boxer dog breed is a bit different. Because Boxers are hyper dogs with insane energy levels! So, a good diet for a Boxer pup must consist of basic ingredients, but you may also want to boost it with home-cooked food and supplements. This is why you have to choose the best source of protein for your Boxer dog. Poultry, beef, and seafood are excellent sources of animal protein for Boxer dogs because they are easy on their digestive system. Fatty acids like omega-6 and omega-3 are great for your Boxer dog because they give its coat extra shine and make its skin healthier. With a proper diet that is packed with vitamins and fatty acids, Boxer coat colors become more vivid and its coat sheds less! Fruit and veggies are also great for Boxer dogs because they are packed with vitamins and minerals which are essential for a healthy metabolism. Dairy products like whipped cream and blue cheese should either not be given at all or given in very small amounts. Grain-Free Diet What makes the Boxer dog breed different from other medium-sized dogs is that they are prone to developing Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus bloat. This means that the majority of Boxer dogs will have to go on a special diet. Grain-free diets are usually recommended for adult Boxer dogs in order to avoid bloat and other digestive system issues. We can say that Boxer dogs have more sensitive stomachs than other dog breeds. Not only can these ingredients trigger canine bloat, but they can also cause food allergies. Supplements Sometimes a simple diet for your Boxer dog is simply not enough. Due to their rapid growth and high activity levels, Boxer dogs need to keep their joints in tip-top condition. So, you want to search for food supplements that contain glucosamine chondroitin — compounds that are essential to joint health. Moreover, Boxers are prone to elbow and hip dysplasia which is why these supplements are of utmost importance. But, the Boxer dog breed is a bit different than the rest. Now, I know that this is an ongoing dilemma to the majority of Boxer owners, as there is no correct answer. Dry Dog Food Despite the fact that many Boxers dogs may prefer wet over dry dog food, dry kibble is preferable to keep their teeth and gums healthy, and their jaw strong. The crunch of a hard kibble will help to some extent to remove plaque, but you will still need to provide some at-home dental care. Pure kibble diets are perfectly acceptable to give to your Boxer dog. Additionally, you can boil some chicken or give your Boxer dog some raw meat. Boxers love those! It is perfectly fine to feed your Boxer dog a pure kibble diet. But, you will want to make it a bit more interesting by adding some dog food toppers, cooked or raw meat, fish, and vegetables. Wet Dog Food Wet food has more water, which keeps Boxer dogs hydrated throughout the day. Compared to dry dog food, wet food has higher fat content which is a no-no for Boxers that are prone to canine obesity. For most Boxer dogs that are prone to heart disease like cardiomyopathy, wet food with high fat content may be too much. Different Boxer dog life stages require different food amounts. Besides the life stage your Boxer dog is in, we should take into consideration that Boxers are medium-sized dogs, which means that they require a healthy diet that is specially designed for medium breed dogs. Age Earlier in this article we have mentioned that Boxer puppies need a special diet that consists of a higher percentage of protein, carbs, vitamins, and minerals. This is perfectly understandable because Boxer puppies need a healthy diet to grow. Additionally, Boxer puppies are always on the go and their bodies burn calories like crazy! In contrast to young Boxer puppies, old Boxers need to be fed a healthy diet that has a lower content of protein and fat. Naturally, the metabolism of a Boxer dog slows with age. So, due to the fact that many senior Boxer dogs are less energetic and more on the lazy side, they burn fewer calories. A slower metabolism is one of the main reasons why older Boxer dogs become obese because excess calories from high-calorie dog food are converted into fat. Failure to feed a diet designed for the unique requirements of medium to large-breed puppies like the Boxer can lead to health issues such as canine arthritis , hip dysplasia, cardiomyopathy, and obesity. This is why you have to choose Boxer food that is designed to control the amount of calories and calcium consumed in order to reduce the risk of these health issues. Gender Regardless of the gender, all Boxer dogs need the right nutrients that will help them stay healthy and strong as they grow. However, the nutritional needs of male Boxer dogs greatly differ from those of female Boxers. Research shows that intact male Boxer dogs eat more than their neutered counterparts. Which is pretty obvious due to the fact that intact male Boxer dogs go crazy when they show signs that they want to mate. In fact, intact male Boxer dogs are known to roam and jump fences in order to get to their ladies. Roaming and chasing those female Boxer beauties burns away all the calories! So, intact male Boxer dogs are always hungry! Neutered Male Boxer Dog Upon reaching sexual maturity, intact male Boxer dogs often become restless and impossible to handle. This is the period when you can see signs that your male dog needs to be neutered. Neutered male Boxer dogs have lower energy needs than their intact counterparts. After having your Boxer dog neutered, you have to put it on a special diet to ensure a fast recovery. In fact, you will need to cut the food portion in half because neutered Boxer dogs require fewer calories. If your neutered male Boxer dog starts to lose weight, you can reintroduce a gradual increase in food. Intact Female Boxer Dog Intact female Boxer dogs typically need fewer calories than both intact and neutered male dogs. Intact female Boxers that are fed the same diet as intact male Boxer dogs are more prone to obesity and heart problems. Spayed Female Boxer Dog Boxer dogs that have been spayed or neutered have lower levels of estrogens and androgens, which, just like in neutered male Boxer dogs, lowers their metabolic rate. Therefore, the spayed female Boxer dog requires less energy. After surgery, the appetite of a female Boxer dog might increase because estrogen has been shown to suppress hunger. To ensure that your spayed female Boxer maintains a healthy body constitution and condition, the amount and type of food must be changed. Pregnant Female Boxer Dog Once your female dog starts showing signs of pregnancy , get ready to learn more about what a feeding schedule for a pregnant pooch looks like. Start by offering your pregnant Boxer dog smaller and more frequent meals rather than large portions. Pregnant Boxers will have less space in their tummy for large amounts of food so make sure to keep the balance between small meals. Additionally, her diet should consist of a lot of soluble carbohydrates along with a little fiber. One of the most crucial minerals for pregnant Boxer dogs are calcium and phosphorus. These minerals support healthy bone development of unborn Boxer puppies. Activity Levels Boxer puppies, adolescents, and young adult dogs that are in perfect heath have insane energy levels! This means that their activity levels are high and they need regular exercise. When your Boxer pup runs all over the place, it needs a lot of nutritious food to feed those muscles! Boxer dogs that receive these optimal levels of dietary protein are more likely to perform to their full potential. Besides healthy protein intake, active Boxer dogs need a bit of carbohydrates. If you notice that your Boxer dog is gaining more weight , simply feed it less, and if they are becoming underweight, feed more. Lazy Boxer Dogs Adult Boxer dogs differ from one to another and have different activity levels. While active adult Boxer dogs normally active require 30 calories per pound of body weight, lazy Boxer dogs require less calories per day to maintain their overall health and avoid becoming obese. Senior Boxer Dogs The majority of senior Boxer dogs frequently prefer canned or raw food over dry dog food. Maybe it is because their teeth are not as strong as before, or simply because of the added moisture found in canned dog food. Even though senior Boxer dogs tend to eat less because they are less active and have slower metabolisms, they require dog food that is high in energy, antioxidants, and fatty acids. This is why senior dog food for Boxers features a healthy balance of antioxidants and fatty acids. Senior Boxer dogs typically prefer smaller portions that are given more frequently throughout the day rather than two fully loaded bowls a day. What Foods Should Boxers Avoid? As we mentioned in the grain-free diet part, Boxer dogs should avoid any dog food that contains wheat, corn, or soy. These ingredients are merely fillers for your Boxer dog, offering little to no nutritional value. In fact, the majority of food allergies in dogs are triggered by grains such as wheat and corn. Besides these common dog food ingredients, Boxer dogs should avoid human food like chocolate, macadamia nuts, milk, avocado, candy, and spicy food. Cooked bones should never be given to Boxer dogs. So, when cooking bone broth for your Boxer dog, make sure to get rid of all cooked bones. Boxer dogs are known to have sensitive stomachs. If your Boxer dog ingests food that is toxic to its digestive system, chances are that it will throw up yellow or develop diarrhea. It is best to consult with your veterinarian and go over any worries you have about what foods your Boxer dog should avoid. While many Boxer dogs simply have an insane desire for food, an increased appetite also known as polyphagia can also indicate a number of health problems. For example, Boxers with diabetes often show signs of polyphagia or an insatiable appetite. These can be signs that your senior dog with diabetes is dying. Besides health issues and all that serious stuff, Boxer dogs can simply inherit a faster metabolism which makes them always hungry. Owners are understandably worried when their Boxer pup abruptly stops eating or gradually loses interest in food. In the absence of other symptoms of health issues, a Boxer not eating is typically not a cause for concern. Normally, stress, reaction to medication, and changes in their environment, can all cause a Boxer pup to stop eating. Boxer puppies that are in their teething period like to nibble on people or objects, rather than consuming their puppy food. Some Boxer pups experience severe discomfort and pain while teething which reduces their will to eat. A Boxer puppy may frequently stop eating due to intestinal parasitic infestation or infections that cause upset stomach. The lack of appetite in Boxer puppies could be a sign of a serious issue like a blockage or poisoning. In other cases, Boxer dogs can lose their appetite due to internal obstructions, pain, and dental issues. The best food for your Boxer dog is usually food that is made for active dogs. While most Boxer owners prefer the Royal Canin brand, there are other commercial dog foods across the U. The majority of Boxer dogs inherit a sensitive stomach, so it is best to avoid bad food brands and to consult your veterinarian about the best dog food that you can find. Conclusion Give your hungry Boxer pooch all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and live a long life! The best way to keep a Boxer pup happy is by giving it nutritious food and lots of exercise. This Boxer feeding chart explains how much food a Boxer needs based on its activity levels. So, I believe that you have gotten the hang of this feeding guide! Make sure to ask your Boxer breeder for additional tips and tricks. Even though this Boxer feeding chart answers the most common questions about Boxer diet and feeding schedule, in case your Boxer puppy is showing signs of health issues, call your veterinarian for a check-up. Related Content. And, I'll go out on a limb to say I bet those early Boxers ate dog food with less additives and fillers than found in today's formulas. That is of course, unless you're armed with information on sourcing the best possible modern foods for feeding Boxer dogs! Adult Boxer dogs require 1, to 2, calories of good quality dog food per day depending on age and activity, with an averagely active adult dog somewhere midrange. Being a muscular breed that is highly active, Boxers require quality protein in food at a slightly higher level than many less active breeds. Credence should be given to invest in a quality kibble dog food with high protein and caloric value or go with a Raw Dog Diet , especially for active Boxers. Bloat Concerns This breed is prone to bloat, Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus , so grain free kibble and raw diets are a great option for feeding Boxer dogs. Carbohydrate and fat levels are less a concern when feeding Boxer dogs, yet Boxers are know to put on extra weight rather easily. Low carbohydrate diets should be fed to overweight dogs and the breed ideally should be slim, stocky and muscular. To learn how we choose quality kibble formulas, or for help selecting your own, visit our Feeding Dry Dog Food section. For a great alternative to kibble and food we highly recommend for Boxer dogs, visit our Raw Feeding Dogs section. Supplements As with any medium to large breed dog, providing a food that includes supplements adds additional insurance towards good health. To maintain your Boxer's joint health, foods containing chondroitin and glucosamine are awesome. If your kibble doesn't include these compounds, they can be supplemented separately with a product such a Cosequin. For a shiny coat and to promote skin health, foods with Omega-6 fatty acids are wonderful. For control of inflammation or arthritis pain in older Boxer dogs, support the heart, kidneys and stabilize overall mood, Omega-3 fatty acids are great to see on an ingredients panel. Just like Cosequin however, Omegas can be fed separately and as needed by simply squeezing a gel capsule over your Boxer's meal. In summary, feeding Boxer dogs about 2. Amount fed may go up or down based on your dog's size, weight, age and overall daily activity. Feeding Boxer Dog Puppies Quality formulated all life stages food and several small meals a day for a Boxer dog puppy. Your Boxer puppy will grow rapidly through the first six to eight months. Similar to any medium or large breed puppy that is susceptible to bone growth issues like hip dysplasia, feeding a quality all life stages, large breed puppy formula, or Raw Dog Food diet will help regulate growth. Boxer puppies can eat! Two to three regulated servings per day is recommended, do not free freed. There's an unwritten rule in among Boxer enthusiasts to feed at least twice as much food daily that your puppy would eat as an adult, In multiple regulated servings. Begin by following feeding guidelines per the label provided on your chosen Kibble Dog Food Formula. Increase or decrease the amount fed by assessing your Boxer's body weight and energy as he or she grows. From age 6 to 8 months on, the rapid growth phase should cease and while still technically a puppy, your Boxer can be transitioned to an adult diet. This includes higher protein foods yet many who were already feeing an all life stages formula can continue with the same. As always with both puppies and adult Boxers, keep an eye on your dog's weight. You should always see a trace of the last rib with this breed and they should appear slim, yet muscular. Adjust amount fed per serving accordingly to maintain that perfect Boxer appearance. And lastly, with all dog breeds that are prone to bloat, feeding Boxer dogs several small meals a day is a safer bet than free feeding, or one HUGE serving! Don't forget to check out our Feeding Dry Dog Food articles which focus on selecting a quality kibble for your Boxer dog. And, if there's another mid-size dog in your pack, Feeding Medium Size Dogs provides access to a library of breed specific feeding guides. For help choosing kibble dog food for your Boxer Dog plus additional info about raw feeding, visit our Homepage for quick banner access to the major sections of our website! Your vet can run the necessary tests and examine your puppy to determine the cause. Male Adult male Boxers are slightly larger than females. Males weigh an average of 60 to 70 pounds, requiring 3 to 5 cups of food. This weight range requires 2 to 4 cups of food per day. On top of a caloric increase, an active Boxer will also need a protein-rich diet to feed their muscles. A protein-friendly, calorie-dense dry kibble should be offered, and you should follow the instructions based on their weight. Image Credit: boxerdogmadness, Pixabay Sedentary Boxers tend to become overweight quickly if you overfeed them—blame their voracious appetites and love for snacking. This food offers a low-calorie alternative without skipping out on necessary nutrition. However, what really happens is that it decreases their metabolism rate, slowing their energy. This slowing process can cause weight gain if you continue to feed them the same amount of food. The puppies always get the nutrients first. So, if you have a food that is lacking in certain areas, the mother will suffer. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Boxer Feeding Guide for Seniors Just like puppyhood has special dietary requirements when dogs reach a certain age, so does old age. Seniors need to eat foods that cater to their life stage to keep them capable, happy, and healthy for their remaining years. A Boxer transitions into the senior category, usually around 6—9 years of age. If you have your dog on dog food for all life stages, it might be appropriate to continue this diet. A lower-calorie food will also help to prevent your dog from becoming overweight. If your senior has specific health issues, it might be best to feed them a specific diet that helps with their condition. As time goes on, you can work with your vet to accommodate their special dietary needs. It is formulated specifically for later years. Some dogs have voracious appetites that are never satisfied. It seems like you barely get it into the bowl before they suck it up like a vacuum cleaner. Free-Feeding—this practice involves making food available to your dog at all times. The danger with this method is that large dogs like Boxers are susceptible to bloat, or gastric dilation-volvulus GDV. Bloat happens when the dog eats too quickly, causing gas to fill the abdomen. It can be fatal. This method can also make overeating seem like the norm, which causes bad manners. Feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals is a better alternative to free-feeding. Slow-Feeder Bowls—a great way to slow your pooch down, allowing them to digest their food properly, is to give them food in a slow feeder. It gives your Boxer unique designs to eat around, stimulating their mental curiosity while slowing them down. What Foods Are Bad for Boxers? Some things to look out for are: Corn. However, you should still consult your vet or pet nutritionist to be on the safe side. You should feed your adult Boxers two times a day, with 12 hours of spacing between meals. Ideally, one in the morning and one in the evening. You should feed your senior Boxers two times a day except given a specific schedule by a vet. As a general rule, you should feed your boxers a few hours before going to bed in the evening, so they have enough time to digest the food before going to sleep. Treats should be heavily used as a reward when training your dog. The food you feed your Boxers should specifically cater to large breeds and contain the required nutrients necessary for a strong and healthy dog. The kind of food to feed your Boxers includes dry dog food, wet dog food, a home-cooked diet, and biologically appropriate food to ensure your dog eats a balanced diet. Let me touch on these few points to help you understand what to feed your dog: Dry Food: Dry dog or kibble is a portion of commercial pet food made by grinding and mixing up ingredients like meats, grains, and nutritional additives, which are then shaped into little kernels and cooked at high temperatures to remove the water content. Dry dog contains more carbs, less fat, less water, and sometimes less protein, and is often recommended by vets due to its lower cost, dental health benefits, convenience, weight loss support, and playtime perks. Wet Food: Wet dog food, or canned food, is made by mixing up and cooking the ingredients before adding or extracting varying amounts of water. Unlike dry dog food, wet dog food contains more water, fewer carbs, more fat, and often more protein. They are recommended by veterinarians due to their high water content, taste, ease of eating, and high nutritional profile. Home-Cooked Diet: Home-cooked diets are a great option for pet parents who are not into commercial dog food, and want to go the extra length to prepare a meal for their furry companion. Feeding your dog a home-cooked meal will give you control over its nutrition and can put you at ease knowing that you will always give your dog the best treatment. BARF Diet: Biologically Appropriate Raw Food is a type of food that contains raw meat, raw eggs, crushed animal bones, fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and other natural ingredients. BARF diets are used as a substitute for processed foods with preservatives. However, consult your vet before feeding your pet a raw diet to avoid health complications from harmful substances. They have large appetites, which makes it tempting to hand them whatever we find ourselves eating. There are certain human foods, fruits, and vegetables to avoid feeding your Boxers because these foods contain toxins that are harmful to your pet that could lead you to frequent trips to the vet. Human food to avoid feeding your Boxers includes chocolates, coffee, gums, peanut butter, candies, cooked bones, etc. The Fruits and vegetables to avoid feeding your Boxers include grapes, avocado, garlic, onions, etc. You should always check the ingredients on the food label to see if these ingredients are present in the food. Or you can simply consult a vet or pet nutritionist to check the ingredients with them. Puppy food contains more calories and nutrients than adult food to meet the nutritional requirements at that stage of life. Your boxers will not eat if they have one or a combination of the factors listed below: Illness, dental problems, tooth medication, separation Anxiety, time of day, spoiled food, stress, and picky eaters Boxers are prone to having dental problems, and a major sign of this is bad breath. If you notice consistent bad breath from your pup or if your pup is not eating or drinking water, consult your veterinarian. You should visit the vet. Boxers and most dog breeds are ravenous feeders, which is why meals must be arranged in strict order. This goes hand in hand with training your dog from an early stage. You must avoid free-feeding your dog, as this might cause them to bloat and lead to stomach issues. An alternative reason might be if your dog is engaged in too many exercises, is under stress, or is infected by worms; if your dog is in any of these categories, then it may be why they are always hungry. Do boxers eat a lot? Boxers are notorious eaters, and if they are not trained properly, they may eat to the point of developing stomach issues like bloating. Boxers are large and thus will need adequate and proper training to keep them on a straight and healthy diet. Can boxers become vegetarians? The Boxer breed can live on a vegetarian diet as long as this diet consists of all the essential nutrients required by the Boxers to thrive and grow optimally. If you are taking your dog on a vegan diet, then ensure that meals contain micronutrients that may not be present in a vegan diet. You should consult your vet or pet nutritionist while planning your vegan meals to ensure your Boxer does not encounter any health complications. Can boxers eat bones? Boxers can be fed raw, not cooked, bones, as this will encourage healthy bones and teeth and, as a bonus, contain a lot of micronutrients that may not be in their food. However, you ensure that bones fed to your dog are deboned after two to three days to prevent infection. Some guidelines concerning this have been stipulated by the American Kennel Club. You can feed your boxers different types of human foods, such as beef, chicken, pork, turkey, salmon, tuna, and eggs. They can also be noodles, oatmeal, sweet potatoes, unsalted peanuts, parsnips, and other foods such as rice and pasta, yogurt, cheese, and peanut butter. Boxers can eat many types of fruits, such as strawberries, apples, bananas, raspberries, peaches, mango, pears, blueberries, plums, melon, pineapple, oranges, and kiwi fruit. They can also eat vegetables such as pumpkin, carrots, peas, corn, cauliflower, spinach, cabbage, broccoli, and more. However, you may need to feed them supplements if you feed them home-cooked meals as recommended by your vet or dog nutritionist. Final Thoughts on Feeding A Boxer? Boxers are adorable and strong dogs that can thrive on balanced, rich nutrients. Pet parents have to take special care in structuring the diet plan of their beloved pet to ensure that it grows most healthily and strongly. Options such as dry, wet, raw, and homemade diets are all great for them. You can free-feed your Boxer as a puppy, but you have to draw up a strict plan as they go on. It is also essential to know what foods are healthy and should be avoided, as some are toxic. However, if you desire more information on how to take care of your Boxer, you should contact the nearest vet for information on essential nutrients, and you can also see a pet nutritionist for a regimen schedule for your pet. David Cassiel As a biologist and dog enthusiast, I have gained valuable experience and knowledge through my internship at a veterinary hospital and my personal ownership of multiple breeds. My passion for dogs and expertise in areas such as nutrition, care, and training drives my goal of providing a helpful resource for dog owners through my pet website. Find More Search for: Affiliate Disclaimer We may earn commission from Amazon and other retailers when you make a purchase through our links. You can learn more about our affiliate disclaimer here. Male boxer puppies would be around 17 inches or more during their 6th month while females will be slightly smaller at around 16 inches. Birth to 3 weeks old When your boxer pup is still very young, they should be with their mom and be nursed properly. Keep in mind that your boxer should get equal amounts of milk, especially if they belong to a large litter. Observe the litter for any signs of bullying or some puppies being overpowered. This is also the case if the mother is too thin to supply milk to all of her pups. When your puppy reaches 3 weeks of age, you might start to notice rapid growth. That is normal for boxer puppies since the breed tends to grow faster than most dogs. Boxer pups of this age still need to be nursed. To do this mix 1 part puppy food with 3 parts water in a bowl and offer it to them. It also helps to train your pups to only eat when they are hungry. A good rule of thumb in terms of scheduling for the water and puppy food mixture would be 3 to 4 times a day. You want the process to be a pleasant one for your boxer pup. This is when the weaning process becomes slightly visible. The mother dog will slightly let go of her little ones for them to be independent. Keep them away from dangerous objects and supervise them as much as possible. Ensure that their food is easy to chew to avoid eating problems. If your vet allows for it, you can add some veggies or other food ingredients that are deemed safe for pups as advised. Your puppy will need more nutrition by this time so they need to learn to eat solid puppy food. After all, 6 weeks old is a time for exploration, playtime, and energy bursts whether indoors or outdoors. You may also want to feed them more if they spend a lot more time playing or running around. Once your puppy reaches 7 weeks old, they should already know how to eat their solid food. Give them the serving somewhere between 3 and 4 times a day depending on your available time and their hunger pangs. Your boxer pups will also get nursed less often during this time, as the mother will likely just stand up while giving milk reluctantly to her little ones. She might even run away from them at some point, allowing them to become more independent. Keep their meals served at 3 to 4 times a day, with at least 2 or more cups per day, divided equally. You can also follow the chart that we mentioned above, especially if your boxer pup is quite the active fellow. Having more cups a day is important for puppies that have far less weight than others. You can also ask your vet about how many calories they need depending on their energy levels. Know the activity levels of your puppy and adjust accordingly. If your boxer pup is always on the go, they might need more calories than usual. Moreover, a 9-week-old boxer pup might also roam around and pick various objects to ensure that their surroundings are kept puppy-proofed. Bloating comes from excessively gobbling food so make sure they only get equal portions for their daily meal schedules. While we did say that boxer pups during this period are likely to eat twice as much as a regular adult boxer, always observe if your puppy is getting overweight by checking their waist. Talk to your vet if you suspect your pup might be gaining too many pounds. Always keep in mind to avoid bloating problems with your pup by ensuring the schedule gets followed. Continue with the usual puppy food or as instructed by your vet. Recommended Food Now that your boxer puppy has a set schedule, what should you feed them? Here are some suggestions: 1. Quality Kibble Like most active breeds, dry kibble is the way to go if you want affordable and easy-to-store food for your boxer puppy. Worry not — there are grain-free options in the market. Wet or canned food If you want added calories for an active boxer puppy, consider wet food. After all, canned puppy food is tasty to most dogs, especially during their puppy years, since the smell is enough to get them eating. Omega fatty acid foods Boxers are prone to cardiomyopathy, which can be lessened if they take foods and supplements rich in omega fatty acids, such as fish. Talk to your vet for a diet plan that will help lessen the likelihood of such eye problems. Glucosamine foods Hip dysplasia is common in boxers so we recommend foods that are rich in glucosamine, such as chicken feet and seafood. Consider looking for either kibble or canned puppy food that has glucosamine to help prevent hip dysplasia and other joint problems. Look for primarily meat-based puppy food rather than cheap commercial brands. Commercial brands out there may have more corn and wheat than protein from meat. Instead, look for slightly pricier yet more quality brands of puppy food for your boxer. And, as usual, you should also stay away from human foods that are toxic to dogs, such as grapes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, and the like. FAQs on Feeding a Boxer Puppy Boxer pups need extra care when it comes to their diet — here are some frequently asked questions with regards to feeding them properly: When do I switch to adult food for my Boxer puppy? By this time, you can slowly transition your puppy to adult food in portions. Should I give my Boxer puppy supplements? As a workaholic dog breed, boxer pups need protein and other nutrients, which are fortunately already in most quality dog food brands. Raw feeding a Boxer puppy A raw diet is okay for boxer puppies provided that you get expert advice from your vet about it. Raw feeding is no walk in the park since you need to do the math on calories and nutrients as compared to commercial food. Also, take note of food handling to avoid bacterial infection, especially if you live in areas where humidity is high. If you need help, talk to a breeder or someone you know tried raw feeding before — especially for puppies. Conclusion A healthy and energetic boxer puppy will be a satisfied life companion if you feed them properly. All you need to know is that boxers are typically workaholics so they need to have a balanced diet with sufficient calories based on their activities. We hope this helped you figure out how much to feed your boxer puppy! Every bite of food will be detrimental or beneficial to this breed's health. Overview Food is fuel both for a growing Boxer pup and large strong adult Boxer dogs. The type of food that you offer for both meals and snacks has a direct affect on your Boxer's health both now and in the future. Also of importance is a feeding schedule and making sure that you offer the proper amounts. This section will cover everything you need to know in order to provide a well-balanced, nutritious diet for your Boxer puppy, adult, or senior. How Often to Feed a Boxer Puppy or Dog Let's look at a summary and then the details: Puppies under 12 weeks: free-fed Puppies and up to the 2-year mark: 3 meals per day Adults 2 years and up: 1 to 2 meals per day Young pups 8 to 12 weeks old: Very young pups, and particularly those that are a bit underweight, should be free-fed for at least the first month at their new home. This is the method of having fresh food accessible at all times. For a pup still trying to gain their bearings, you may need to lead them to their bowl throughout the day. Note that food should be thrown out and the bowl washed and then refilled several times per day as opposed to just topping off the food since pups may not be interested in stale food. Growing pup to 2 year mark: It's best to get a Boxer onto a feeding schedule as soon as possible. Schedules of anything feeding, exercise, sleep time, etc. Young Boxers often struggle a bit to fill out and during the 1 to 2-year mark Boxers can go through a 'skinny phase', so 3 meals per day, plus snacks, can work well during this time. Adults 2 years and up: Most adult Boxers that have reached their final adult weight and height do well with 2 meals per day, plus snacks. If snacks are regular and of substance, a Boxer may be perfectly content with 1 main meal per day. Note that this breed is prone to bloat, so you want to avoid letting a Boxer get so hungry that he rapidly gulps his food down. If that is the case, increase the frequency of meals or use a slow-feed bowl; stainless-steel is best, something like Mr. How Much to Feed a Boxer Puppy or Dog The exact serving size that is appropriate for each Boxer varies and depends mainly on age and current weight but also is affected by activity level, health status, type of food wet vs dry , and individual metabolism. This said, there are general guidelines: Puppies usually require about 55 calories for each pound of body weight. Young pups might eat a bit over a cup a day, older pups can eat up to 3 cups a day. Adults need fewer calories per pound of body weight than their younger counterparts, about .Depending on an adult Boxer dog's size, food is usually in the 3 to 5 cup per day range. To know exactly how much to give your Boxer, know your dog's weight. Don't guess since that can be wildly off. Then, look at the feeding guidelines on the bag of kibble; these are listed by age and weight and are usually pretty spot on. Dry Kibble vs Wet Canned Though many Boxers may prefer wet canned food, dry kibble is better to maintain healthy teeth and gum and a strong jaw. You'll still have to provide some level of at-home dental care , but the crunch of a hard kibble will work to some extent to remove plaque. Additionally, dry food seems to keep the stools firmer and healthier. If your Boxer is a finicky eater and balks at dry food, try mixing in just a bit of canned stick with the same brand or add just a bit of water or low-sodium chicken or beef broth. Grain vs Grain-free It's wasn't that long ago that putting a dog on a grain-free diet wasn't much of a big deal. Some grains, especially those with gluten, can cause excessive gas , upset stomach, and other issues. And, some dogs are allergic to wheat or gluten which can manifest as itching and other skin problems. But recently, a suspected link between certain grain-free dog foods and dilated cardiomyopathy DCM, a canine heart disease caused veterinary experts to take pause. And, since Boxers are one of the breeds prone to DCM, it's important to understand where things are on this. Though it was first thought that any grain-free diet may be the cause, the current thought is that it is a BEG diet, meaning boutique small specialty brands that have exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, kangaroo, bison, venison, etc. Many more studies need to be done for conclusive answers to be found. For now, it is recommended to offer healthy grains and this can be done while avoiding gluten if your Boxer has an issue with it. Navigating the Many Choices of Dog Foods What to Avoid: Many brands are guilty of having at least one of these elements that you do not want your Boxer's food to have: No grains at all. Until conclusive studies are complete, play it safe and offer a kibble with some level of healthy grains unless the veterinarian recommends otherwise Boxer needs to be on a specific grain-free diet, etc. Synthetic preservatives. These can be toxic. Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA , butylated hydroxytoluene BHT , and ethoxyquin, just to name a few, are linked to behavioral issues, organ damage, and some forms of cancer. Artificial coloring. Common dyes like Yellow 5 and 6 and Blue 2 are linked to behavioral and health issues. Artificial flavor enhancers. MSG is one of the worst, it is linked to anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and breathing issues. Generic animal digest, meats, oils, or fats. When anything is listed as 'animal', it is derived from a 4-D animal: dead, dying, diseased or disabled animals and can literally be any meat from any animal at all: minks from mink farms, roadkill, zoo animals, expired meats from supermarkets and butcher shops, etc. Fillers are cheap ingredients that are put into dog food to bulk it up but they have little to no nutritional value. The 'food' goes right through their system; a dog will eat but be hungry again soon afterward and this is one cause of coprophagia eating feces. These are the animal parts that are not fit for human consumption and includes such things as spinal tissue, lungs, spleens, hooves, tails, undeveloped eggs, etc. Made outside North America since meats from overseas can be questionable. The kibble will be preserved using a vitamin blend often listed as mixed tocopherals and will be naturally flavored and colored. Some level of grains. Grains that are generally well-tolerated include rice, oatmeal, and quinoa. Wholesome real meats, veggies, and fruits. Some ingredients sourced from Norway are fine; this country has very strict guidelines. If you are not sure what is in your Boxer's food, investigate it. Know about grain content and the presence or lack of additives and subpar ingredients. Recommended Dog Food for Boxers Please note that the following recommendations are formulas with some level of healthy grains; if you did not read the previous ' Grain vs Grain-free ' you may wish to do so before continuing on. This meets all of the requirements of what you're looking for. There are no synthetic preservatives; vitamins are used instead shown as mixed tocopherals. The grains in this formula are generally very well tolerated: quinoa technically a seed , oatmeal, and barley. There are 3 different recipes to choose from: beef, chicken, or lamb. Other ingredients include peas, salmon, carrots, apples, blueberries, and flaxseed. There are good levels of glucosamine chondroitin vital for joint health , antioxidants, and omega fatty acids important for skin and coat health. There are no by-products, fillers, or generic meats or oils and this is sourced and made in the USA. For this one, the base is chicken a very classic tasty protein that most dogs love , along with oatmeal, brown rice, ground barley, peas, flaxseed, carrots, tomato pomace, spinach, sweet potatoes, apples, and blueberries. All other ingredients shown on the label are either vitamins and minerals or natural preservatives. This has no wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and this is made in the USA. This brand offers a top-quality formula that is gluten-free. There is no wheat, corn, soy, by-products, artificial flavors, artificial colors, or chemical preservatives. The base is chicken and brown rice and other ingredients include white rice, oatmeal, rice bran, avocado, flax seed, herring, and kelp. It has good levels of omega fatty acids and antioxidants. The one trade-off for having it be gluten-free is that it does not contain any fruit; however, it does have all required vitamins and minerals and you can always offers a small amount of fresh fruit as snacks. Homemade Vs Commercial Commercial dog food is convenient and, if you choose a superior brand, it will ensure that your Boxer receives all needed nutrients and is on a well-rounded and well-balanced diet. And, home cooked food gives you complete control over what your Boxer eats and does not eat and can be tweaked to satisfy a finicky eater. So, there are pros and cons to each. Whether you opt for a top-quality kibble or you use good cuts of meat and fish and fresh produce in homemade meals, neither option is super-cheap. Because, of course, you get what you pay for. But, if you buy in bulk and lean toward frozen vegetables and fruits, home cooking may be a bit less expensive. That said, when you prepare meals at home, you'll need to offer a good daily vitamin and mineral supplement even good brands of kibble need to add this in because it's nearly impossible for a dog to receive all nutrients just from food alone. Some of the foods that can be incorporated into meals include: Proteins: Chicken, turkey, veal, beef, fish mackeral, haddock, salmon, whitefish, cod, and others , eggs, and certain beans kidney, lima Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli in moderation , potato, sweet potato, sugar snap peas, green beans, spinach Fruits: Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, pumpkin Grains: Quinoa, oatmeal, rice Related Articles: Best Snacks, Chews, and Treats for a Boxer - A great rundown of the difference between these 3 things and top recommendations. How many calories does a Boxer dog need - Requirements based on age, size and activity level. Recommendations to lower or raise intake. Boxer dog weight issues - This breed can become overweight, usually due to a combination of eating too much and being sedentary. Boxer begging behavior - Boxers are pretty good at playing their humans and it's easy to fall into the trap of giving in to begging. Read how to stop the cycle. Choosing the Best Bowl for a Boxer - Size, height, material and design are all important. A boxer puppy needs 55 calories per pound each day. Aside from that, the amount of calories that you can give to your boxer puppy also depends on the type of food, their metabolism, activity levels, and any health issues along the way. You can raise that to 5 cups if the pups get older and if your boxer puppies have a lot of physical activity in a day. Likewise, it also helps to look for the kibble packaging to give the appropriate serving size in terms of calories for your boxer pup. Aside from that, adding the treats that you gave to your puppy is also important for the total calorie count per day. A 2-week-old boxer puppy will start opening their eyes to the world. Keep in mind that if you have different puppies in terms of size, always make sure that all of them have equal turns on getting the milk of the mother. It also helps to know if there are puppies in the litter that have considerably smaller weight than the others, and you should focus your attention on them. If you suspect that one of your puppies is underweight, talk to your vet for a possible milk supplement to get their weight back on track. The weaning process starts at 4 weeks of age for your boxer puppy. This will also prevent the food from spoiling easily as adding water to the mixture makes it more prone to mold and bacteria, especially in highly-humid areas. A 4-weel-old boxer puppy could have a little slow pace when it comes to the weaning transition and this is normal. Also, do keep in mind that not all boxer puppies let go at the same time as each other. Keep offering them the water and puppy food mix to make sure that they get used to it. They might not like it at first but when they try again, they will probably want to feed on the bowl much more. With that said, a 5-week-old boxer puppy should still be nursed by its mother although in slightly smaller amounts. Always remember that the weaning process of any dog breed is always gradual to avoid mishaps and health concerns in the future. Aside from that, your boxer puppy will also develop their milk teeth during this stage, which is why weaning should be done constantly. Teaching your pup to be more comfortable with solid food will help ease the pain and responsibility of their mother. The puppy food should be offered to your pet but divided into 4 different meals in a single day. With that said, eating solid food is still on the small side as your boxer puppy might still find it a little intimidating. Therefore, you can reduce the puppy food schedule from 4 times a day to only 3. This allows the boxer puppy to do their business regularly and not get their bellies too stuffed. This is when your puppy starts regularly taking in kibble or wet food, depending on your preference and availability of the product. The ideal amount of servings per day is 3 to 4 times, which is usually in the morning, noon or afternoon, and at night. The best amount of food you can give to your boxer puppy is at least 2 cups a day, which translates to about calories or so. Again, this depends on how much activity they are getting and their initial weight. A word of advice, though: boxer puppies are prone to bloating so they cannot be free-fed at all. For a boxer puppy, consider getting a food dispenser, a food puzzle toy, or a slow-feeder to avoid any potential health hazards and mishaps. When you need to switch brands of dog food or puppy food in this case , make sure to do it gradually. At 9 weeks old, boxer puppies also tend to be a little curious and will pick up objects and even food scraps from the ground. Be wary and keep your house safe for them to live. When your boxer pup turns 10 weeks old, they are going to live an active lifestyle. Therefore, they will need 2 times the amount of food that a regular adult boxer would chow down. A boxer puppy needs a lot of calories and fat since they are a sporty breed. With that said, we did mention earlier that bloating is a common problem with boxer puppies. You can also cut down on the treats, if ever. Aside from that, you can also talk to your vet if you see any signs of food allergies or any potential health inconveniences when giving them certain brands of dog food. At 12 weeks old, your puppy should be fed 3 times a day and after that, you can just stick to the regular schedule. They are going to eat in a more refined manner as compared to their growth stages so the chances of weight gain lessen here. Check their ribs and if they are visible, that means you can add more cups of food to their daily meal portions. Feeding Schedule Putting up a feeding schedule for the boxer puppy is important since they are prone to bloating. This means that they cannot be free-fed during their later puppy stages. With that said, here are some tips on how to manage their feeding schedules: Age of boxer puppy.

Will Love Featuring festive treats, toys, and so much more. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on December 9, We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Photo: Courtesy of Bark Box As nice as it can be to receive gifts over the holidays , it's often even more rewarding to be the one doing the gifting.As pet owners can attest, there's nothing more satisfying than presenting your pup with a treat or toy that you know they'll absolutely love—even if they just tear it apart a few minutes later. And if you can, why not give them a whole bundle of presents rather than just one? That's even better. Luckily, there are tons of great dog gift baskets available that are guaranteed to bring joy to both you and your four-legged pal. These 13 Dog Subscription Boxes Are the Gift That Keeps on Giving From adorable boxes filled with Christmas-themed cookies for dogs, to useful bundles featuring items like collars, leashes, and more —there are so many fun options for treating the pup in your life this season. Below, we've rounded up our 13favorite dog gift baskets, all of which you can buy just in time for the holidays. Because seriously, is there any better way to spend this time of year than by making your best friend even happier than they already are? It includes eight Christmas-themed cookies, four icing cups, and a packet of mini bone cookies, all of which are individually wrapped to keep them fresh long after the holidays are over. That is, if your dog doesn't devour them all before New Year's Eve! Featuring four toys including a reindeer, obviously and two big bags of seasonal treats, the box will put any pup right in the holiday spirit. This one contains five toys including a getaway car and a paint can plus a bag of treats aptly named "Marv, Duck! With this box, you and your dog's next movie night is bound to be a success. Upgrade your pup's walk style with a new leash, collar, and waste bag dispenser, all made of soft but durable material and designed in a lovely dusty blue color scheme but you can choose from a ton of other color options if you prefer. Everything comes packed in a pretty box that's tied with a gold bow, so you can rest easy knowing you're treating your furry pal in style. All the snacks that it contains, such as organic chicken bites and grass-fed beef jerky, are made with pups' health in mind, and there's a handful of toys thrown in to ensure your pal has some fun. There are two different kinds of toys, a bag of treats, a bandana, and a blanket, all festively themed for the season. There's even a "Happy Holidays" banner you can display for cute photo ops! Containing a toy, treats, a poop bag dispenser, bags, and even a blanket perfect for cuddles or protecting your couch from all the hair! In this jam-packed gift box, there are some good-looking treats, but also a dog-shaped soap dish, dog-themed socks, and many more items meant for owners to enjoy. Happy holidays to us all! If you're planning on giving the bag to another dog owner, you can even add a personalized handwritten message on a dog-themed card , of course. There are tennis balls, plush toys, and a rope toy, all intended to keep pups entertained for hours on end. Get ready to watch your pup have a ball pun intended playing with these holiday-themed items and count down the days until Christmas with the Advent calendar on the back of the box. Strawberry Macaron Treat Box Bottom Line Are you hunting for the perfect gift to delight dog lovers and furry companions? Look no further than our exquisite collection of dog gift baskets! Packed with love, care, and a tail-wagging experience, these baskets are tailored to cater to the needs and desires of both dog owners and their beloved pets. We understand the unbreakable bond between dogs and their owners. That's why we've curated a selection of 35 dog gift baskets, each designed with thoughtfulness and attention to detail. From delectable gourmet treats to interactive toys and cozy accessories, our baskets are a testament to our love for our canine companions. Not only do these dog gift baskets bring happiness to dogs, but they also allow dog owners to create lasting memories with their loyal companions. Picture your furry friend's joy as they dig into a basket filled with delicious treats or discover a new favorite toy. With our thoughtfully curated collection of dog gifts , you can pamper your pet and witness their pure delight. Experience the magic of these 35 dog gift boxes and give your dog the ultimate presents of love and happiness. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or want to show your furry friend how much they mean to you, our baskets are the perfect choice. Happy Birthday Dog Treat Gift Box This delightful gift box is filled with mouthwatering frosted peamutt butter cookies and irresistible cheddar bacon bites, sure to satisfy your dog's taste buds. Designed for medium and large breed dogs, this dog gift basket guarantees a truly memorable birthday surprise. So why don't you pick this and make their special day even more wag-tastic! Wufers Woof It Down Cookie Box Made by Wufers, it offers a variety of hand-decorated and wholesome cookies, baked with locally sourced human-grade ingredients. The cookies arrive fresh and ready to be devoured, with a shelf life of up to 15 months. Plus, each cookie box is uniquely hand-decorated by a talented team of dog lovers, making it an extraordinary treat for dogs of all sizes. From grass-fed beef to healthy chicken strips with fruits and vegetables, this gift box offers a variety of tasty treats. Not to mention the large plush duck toy, pig "squeakables" dog toy, rope toy, and two tennis balls that will keep your dog entertained for hours. Deluxe Barker Dog Box Gifting this barker box to a furry friend is the ultimate gesture of love and joy! This extraordinary dog gift basket is packed with an array of treats and toys that will make their tail wag with excitement. From tasty treats to engaging toys, each box is tailored to their unique preferences. Leave behind ordinary dog gift baskets and elevate their happiness with a BarkBox. Give them this box as a gift they'll cherish and remember, filled with love and endless tail-wagging fun! Each recipe features locally sourced ingredients and a delightful mix of flavors, ensuring even the pickiest dogs find them irresistible. 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Affected dogs usually present clinical signs of disease in adulthood at least 8 years of age with gradual muscle wasting and loss of coordination that typically begins in the hind limbs because of nerve degeneration. Disease progression continues until the dog is unable to walk. Small breed dogs tend to progress more slowly. In late stages of the disease, dogs may become incontinent and the forelimbs may be affected. Affected dogs may fully lose the ability to walk 6 months to 2 years after the onset of signs. The disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive fashion with incomplete penetrance, and is caused by a mutation c. The variable presentation between breeds suggests that other genetic and environmental factors play a role in disease expression. There is ongoing research to identify other genetic factors that modify risk for DM in different breeds. In addition, similar disease presentation is observed in some animals that do not have the SOD1 mutation. Genetic testing for the SOD1 c. Based on a study by Zeng and colleagues, the SOD1 mutation c. However, breed-specific clinical investigations have not been performed for all breeds that carry the mutation. Type of Sample. Today we are going to talk about the cause, treatment options and how to prevent DM. For starters, DM is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects older dogs. It initially results in paralysis of the hind legs but eventually progresses to affect all limbs. Dogs that have two copies homozygous of the mutant allele are the ones who are at risk to develop DM. Oddly enough, not all dogs that have the mutation will develop DM and the exact reasons why are unclear. Mutations in SOD1 are associated with some forms of human amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ALS , which is also an adult onset disease that causes muscle weakness and eventual respiratory paralysis. DM seems to express itself typically around the age of 9 years old. The initial symptoms are a loss of balance and weakness in the hind legs. Another common symptom is the scuffing of nails on the back feet while walking as the brain isn't getting clear signals as to whether or not the foot is set paw pad side down. As the disease progresses, more noticeable paralysis of the hind limbs and urinary and fecal incontinence are common. Eventually all limbs become weak and swallowing difficulties can develop. Within 11 months, most dogs are unable to walk at all. There is no treatment and no cure for DM. Physical therapy is usually recommended but there's no evidence that this aids in longevity of life, nor in quality of life. Dogs with advanced DM will need to be kept on a padded bed and will need to be turned from side to side every four to six hours to prevent bed sores. As the disease progresses they will lose the ability to urinate on their own. Urinary catheterization or manual expression will be necessary three times daily. Wearing gloves and hygiene management are extremely important when using catheters to prevent potentially life threatening urinary tract infections. If a dog begins to have trouble swallowing, it may need to be tube fed. How to prevent DM: You can't. It's a genetic disease that an affected dog was born with. But you can insure that you only buy German Shepherds from reputable breeders who test for DM or have lines that do not have DM in them a lot of working lines have kept dogs with DM out of the gene pool after the discovery of the mutated gene in .DM still isn't fully understood. Some DM At Risk dogs never do. There's speculation of other unknown factors and discrepancies in testing. It can also be reasonably assumed that because some dogs don't show symptoms of DM until 14, that many large breed dogs, like German Shepherds, die of natural causes before the disease can show itself. A note to rescuers and puppy buyers who didn't get a pup from health tested parents: There's no reason to test a dog that you're not going to breed except maybe peace of mind. But there's no reason to panic. It's not a difficult disease to diagnose. And chances are you won't see any negative affects until at least 8 years old. A note to breeders: If you're unsure if DM is in your lines, test your dogs. It's a simple mouth swab. You can also register your dog's DNA at the same time and kill two birds with one stone, so to speak. While you're at it, get hip and elbow x-rays done as well. There's nothing worse than to see a puppy you produced suffer. And their new family will not forget that the lack of testing is partially to blame for genetic diseases their dog suffers. Not testing hurts you, them, and the dog you produced. Breed with a purpose, and produce the healthiest dogs you can. If you enjoyed this article or learned something, please leave a like and share so that more people can educate themselves on a disease that affects so many dogs and so many human lives. This disease can be beaten and we all have to join together to hold breeders and buyers accountable. Thank you. Call us to schedule an appointment at You are here Degenerative Myelopathy DM What is degenerative myelopathy? Degenerative myelopathy DM is a chronic spinal cord condition characterized by progressive deterioration of the spinal cord. What are the symptoms of degenerative myelopathy? Degenerative myelopathy typically occurs in dogs older than 5 to 6 years of age, and manifests as weakness in one or both hind limbs that slowly progresses to paralysis of both hind limbs over several months. In time, dogs will eventually become paralyzed in the front limbs and develop fecal and urinary incontinence. The condition is not painful. How is it diagnosed? Degenerative myelopathy DM can only definitively be diagnosed by identifying classic microscopic changes in the spinal cord on autopsy. DM is strongly suspected in dogs where all other causes for neurologic disease are ruled out. The diagnosis of DM is made with a combination of history, neurologic examination, radiology, and genetic testing. Dogs will have a history of slowly progressive, non-painful weakness and ataxia wobbly gait coupled with muscle atrophy reduction in muscle mass. X-Rays and MRI are typically done to look for other causes of progressive weakness, including cancer and chronic intervertebral disc disease. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis usually shows an increase in protein. It is not uncommon for dogs with degenerative myelopathy to also have chronic disc disease, and deciding whether the gait abnormality is due to compression from chronic disc disease or potential degenerative myelopathy can be difficult in some dogs. Recently, DM has been associated with a genetic mutation in the superoxide dismutase gene, which acts as an anti-oxidant. There is currently a genetic test available through the University of Missouri to identify carriers of this genetic mutation. Dogs that carry the mutation may potentially have the disease; however, it is important to understand that having the mutation does not equal having DM. The mutation is very prevalent in certain breeds i. It is unlikely that dogs that do not have the genetic mutation will have DM. The genetics of DM is very complicated may differ amongst different breeds of dogs. How is degenerative myelopathy treated? Unfortunately, there is no proven effective treatment for degenerative myelopathy. The only treatment that has shown any benefit is regular physical therapy to potentially delay the progression of neurologic signs. Various supplements, stem cell therapy, and diets have been suggested but have never been scientifically proven to be effective. What is the prognosis? Degenerative myelopathy progresses at different rates in each animal, but as there is no effective treatment prognosis is guarded. Many owners opt to purchase hind limb carts to allow their dogs to be mobile when unable to use the hind limbs. Continence is usually retained until the end stages of the disease. When a dog inherits two copies of the mutated SOD1 gene from its parents, cells that send and receive brain signals begin to break down, which results in Degenerative Myelopathy symptoms. These include difficulty walking, with an unsteady gait usually presenting as the initial sign of the disease. Eventually the disease progresses, causing loss of bladder control and an inability to use the front legs. Degenerative Myelopathy occurs when a dog inherits copies of abnormal genes from both parents, although this does not inevitably lead to the dog developing the condition. However, a dog that inherits abnormal genes is very likely to go on to develop the condition over time, and is almost certain to pass on the abnormal genes to any offspring. There is no fixed pattern associated with Degenerative Myelopathy, and the condition is not believed to cause the dog any pain, but the loss of limb function is extremely distressing for both pet and owner. The symptoms do not usually present until the dog is around years old, although some dogs are affected at an earlier age. Which Breeds are Affected by Degenerative Myelopathy? When the disease was first identified, it was believed to exclusively affect German Shepherd dogs. However, it is now understood that any breed can be affected, although some breeds are more prone to the condition than others. It has been known for several years that the Bernese have this additional marker, or risk factor, that is generally restricted to the breed. This is not to say that this marker is the sole cause of Degenerative Myelopathy in that breed, or that the SOD1-A mutation is irrelevant as a risk factor in the breed. Using a simple swab from the inner cheek of your dog, we will ascertain whether or not your dog carries the genetic mutation that is likely to develop into the condition. We will also inform you whether or not your dog is a carrier of the mutation, which allows you to make an informed choice as to whether or not to breed from the dog. The dog will not develop Degenerative Myelopathy and cannot pass faulty genes on to any offspring. This means that the dog has a strong likelihood of passing on the condition to offspring, but not of developing the condition itself. Where a potential mate also carries the gene mutation, any offspring will be at high risk of developing the condition and also of passing it on. An AT RISK result indicates that the dog has inherited two copies of the mutated gene from its parents and is highly likely to develop Degenerative Myelopathy over the course of its lifetime. It will definitely pass on the mutation to any offspring. Please click below for more information:. This mutation is found in many breeds of dog, including the German shepherd dog. While it is not clear for some of the other breeds, German shepherd dogs are known to develop degenerative myelopathy associated with this mutation. The variable presentation between breeds suggests that there are environmental or other genetic factors responsible for modifying disease expression. The average age of onset for dogs with degenerative myelopathy is approximately nine years of age. Affected dogs usually present in adulthood with gradual muscle Atrophy and loss of coordination typically beginning in the hind limbs due to degeneration of the nerves. The condition is not typically painful for the dog, but will progress until the dog is no longer able to walk. The gait of dogs affected with degenerative myelopathy can be difficult to distinguish from the gait of dogs with hip dysplasia, arthritis of other joints of the hind limbs, or intervertebral disc disease. Late in the progression of disease, dogs may lose fecal and urinary continence and the forelimbs may be affected. Affected dogs may fully lose the ability to walk 6 months to 2 years after the onset of symptoms. Affected medium to large breed dogs, such as the German shepherd dog, can be difficult to manage and owners often elect euthanasia when their dog can no longer support weight in the hind limbs. The overall frequency of this disease is unreported for German shepherd dogs. However, in one study of German shepherd dogs tested, .Testing Tips Genetic testing of the SOD1 gene in German shepherd dogs will reliably determine whether a dog is a genetic Carrier of degenerative myelopathy. Degenerative Myelopathy is inherited in an Autosomal Recessive manner in dogs meaning that they must receive two copies of the mutated gene one from each parent to develop the disease. In general, carrier dogs do not have features of the disease but when bred with another carrier of the same Mutation , there is a risk of having affected pups. Reliable genetic testing is important for determining breeding practices. Until the exact modifying environmental or genetic factor is determined, genetic testing remains the only reliable way to detect neurological disease associated with this mutation prior to death. In order to eliminate this mutation from breeding lines and to avoid the potential of producing affected pups, breeding of known carriers to each other is not recommended. German shepherd dogs that are not carriers of the mutation have no increased risk of having affected pups. There may be other causes of this condition in dogs and a normal result does not exclude a different mutation in this gene or any other gene that may result in a similar genetic disease or trait. Genome-wide association analysis reveals a SOD1 mutation in canine degenerative myelopathy that resembles amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Clinical characterization of a familial degenerative myelopathy in Pembroke Welsh Corgi dogs. J Vet Intern Med. Canine degenerative myelopathy. Degenerative myelopathy in two Boxer dogs. Vet Pathol. Vet Rec Case Rep. Degenerative myelopathy associated with a missense mutation in the superoxide dismutase 1 SOD1 gene progresses to peripheral neuropathy in Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Boxers. J Neurol Sci. Dog owners usually elect euthanasia within a year of diagnosis; however, when euthanasia is delayed flaccid paralysis and widespread loss of muscle mass occur. Because common acquired compressive spinal cord diseases can mimic DM, a definitive diagnosis currently can only be accomplished postmortem by histopathologic observation of the spinal cord. A DNA test will soon be available for breeders and pet owners, along with information about what the test can and cannot tell them. The test clearly identifies dogs that are clear have 2 normal copies of the gene , those who are carriers have one normal copy of the gene and one mutated copy of the gene , and those who are at much higher risk for developing DM have 2 mutated copies of the gene. However, having two mutated copies of the gene does not necessarily result in disease. Dogs that have clinical signs or a presumptive diagnosis of DM have tested as genetically affected. A relatively high percentage of dogs in several breeds including Boxers, Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers and Rhodesian Ridgebacks have the predisposing mutation. It is important to note that there are a large number of dogs that have tested as genetically affected, but are reported as clinically normal by their owners. It may be that many of these dogs will develop clinical signs as they get older or that the mutation will never manifest in these dogs. In the future, we may identify other risk factors in those dogs that have tested as genetically affected. Wise use of this test can reduce the incidence of dogs at risk for DM in the long-term, particularly if other low frequency risk factors are identified that can more easily be reduced. It is likely to take many generations to reduce the frequency of this disease in breeds with higher frequency of the mutation. By contributing blood samples for testing this mutation, owners will facilitate further study of the disease and the genetic risk factors underlying it. Additional research funded by participating breed clubs and the AKC Canine Health Foundation will help answer questions that remain. Information about the benefits of this test, testing forms and instructions, and suggestions for using the test to reduce the frequency of DM will soon be available online in the DM section of www. Related Grants. Not only we want to know what genes our dogs carry and pass to their offspring , but we want to know how we, as breeders, can make informative decisions to better the breed. DNA based genetic testing looks at the two genes or alleles associated with a specific disease or condition. An individual gets one gene from the dam and one gene from the sire to create a pair. Other dogs who are tested "At Risk" may never develop DM and live a very healthy life. Some older dogs with one copy of the gene "Carriers" can develop the disease. The current hypothesis is that there must be something else in addition to SOD-1 mutation that genetically predicts and determines DM in dogs, and there is an ongoing research to find that genetic mutation. We have seen some programs only breeding DM-clear dogs and staying away from DM affected or carriers. While this seems like a great decision, other characteristics of a dog are more important - such as hips and elbows, temperament and working qualities. It is very important to make sure that the partner to be used in breeding is clear, though! Here we provide a table that explains how to do that: What is so scary about DM? Nancy has more than 30 years of experience in the veterinary industry and is a board-certified veterinary specialist in internal medicine. The inevitable result for dogs with DM is paraplegia—hind end paralysis. Dogs at risk of degenerative myelopathy DM affects primarily older dogs, with symptoms typically beginning at eight years of age or older. Back in the day when I was just a pup we referred to this disease as German Shepherd Myelopathy because we thought it was unique to this breed. We now know that DM occurs in many purebred and mixed breed dogs. Symptoms of degenerative myelopathy DM symptoms progress slowly over the course of months to even years. From beginning to end, DM affected dogs typically remain alert and animated. The symptoms typically progress as follows: Initial Loss of coordination ataxia in the hind legs Dragging the hind feet causing wearing down of the toenails. Weakness in front legs. Although this degenerative process is not painful, affected dogs can develop discomfort because of overuse of other body parts attempting to compensate for the hind end weakness. Cause of degenerative myelopathy DM causes degenerative changes within spinal cord axons, structures that transmit information back and forth between the brain and the rest of the body. These degenerative changes begin in the thoracolumbar region of the spinal cord, the portion that lines up with the end of the rib cage. This explains why the hind limbs are more severely affected. Given enough time, the disease progresses toward the head end of the body, causing loss of front leg function as well. DM is an inherited disease. The researchers discovered that DM has a recessive mode of inheritance. In order for a dog to be affected, the mutation must be inherited from both dam and sire. All that is required is a blood sample or cheek swab. This DNA test identifies dogs that are normal have two normal copies of the gene , those who are carriers have one normal copy of the gene and one mutated copy , and those who are at risk for development of DM have two mutated copies of the gene. This is because not all dogs with two mutated copies of the gene go on to develop DM. Responsible breeders utilize DNA testing for DM to help assess whether or not a particular dog is suitable for breeding purposes. If contemplating purchasing a pup of an at-risk breed, it is important to request DM test results for the dam and sire of the litter of interest. What this means is that a presumptive diagnosis of DM can only be made by ruling out other causes of spinal cord disease e. The only way to definitively diagnose DM is via a spinal cord biopsy collected through an autopsy post-mortem examination. Treatment of degenerative myelopathy Currently there is no known treatment capable of significantly altering the course of DM. When searching the Internet, one might find a number of approaches that have been tried or are recommended. Unfortunately, there is no scientific evidence that supports their efficacy. Prognosis of degenerative myelopathy Unfortunately, the prognosis for dogs with DM is poor. The quality of life for affected dogs can be enhanced through diligent nursing care, prevention of pressure sores, rehabilitation therapies such as swimming and stretching exercises, massage, acupuncture, monitoring for urinary tract infections immobilized dogs are more prone , and the use of specialized equipment such as booties, slings, harnesses, and wheelchairs to assist with mobility. DM becomes so debilitating that most people eventually opt for euthanasia. Exactly when to euthanize is a highly individualized decision based on how adaptive, both physically and psychologically, the involved dog and human s are. Others are highly resistant to such an apparatus. For the human caretaker, in addition to the emotional toll that DM takes, there is a great deal of lifting, carrying, and cleaning involved. Everyone responds differently to this challenging situation. Letting go of a beloved four-legged family member is never easy, but it can be particularly heartbreaking when DM is the cause. Affected dogs typically have good appetites, are pain-free, and their minds remain just as sharp as ever. Letting go of a dog who acts or feels sick is usually a bit easier, simply because the process seems to make more sense. Having a canine model for studying ALS has important ramifications. Not only might more be learned about the degenerative process that afflicts people with ALS, the canine model may ultimately prove to be valuable in terms of learning more about therapeutic interventions. Questions for your veterinarian: Have other causes of spinal cord disease been ruled out? Where could I access rehabilitation therapy for my dog? Where would I find a veterinarian who specializes in neurology? What symptoms should I be watching for? If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets. Resources: 1. ALS Association, n. This disease is normally seen around middle age, and in general diagnosis can only be confirmed at post mortem examination. Breed surveys of some predisposed breeds indicate a fairly low occurrence rate, but most experts think this rate is actually much higher, due to the lack of post mortem follow up of the majority of suspected cases. Signs are due to the immune-mediated destruction of a part of the nerves in the spinal cord, leading to loss of these nerve fibres. The first sign is knuckling of the hind feet, and hind limb ataxia. Once the spinal cord damage progresses past this initial stage termed proprioceptive deficits , the effectiveness if any of treatment is much diminished. Hence early diagnosis is vital. Following this initial stage, hind limb reflexes are affected, then weakness in the hind limbs develops, progressing to total paralysis. Once a dog shows these signs it will almost always respond poorly to therapy. Eventually destruction progresses from the middle of the spinal cord to the upper cord and brain stem, leading to forelimb weakness and eventually interference with the muscles of breathing, causing death. Most dogs are euthanased for humane reasons before this happens. Treatment is with specific supplements and drugs aimed at interfering with the immune destruction in the spinal cord, to slow further nerve damage. The effectiveness of this treatment is variable, but is only of benefit if started as early as possible. Once nerves are lost, they will not be replaced. Degenerative myelopathy cannot be cured. A DNA test is available for predisposed pure breeds to carry out screening of breeding animals. Glu40Lys Severity: Moderate. All breeding animals should have a DNA test prior to entering into a breeding program - eg at 1 year of age. Neurologic examination of all animals at annual veterinary check-up from middle age years onwards. Offer DNA testing to all owners of puppies if his parents have not been screened. Research Citation s : Awano T, et al. Genome-wide association analysis reveals a SOD1 mutation in canine degenerative myelopathy that resembles amyotrophic lateral sclerosis Proc Natl Acad Sci; 8 ;

What is a Frenchie? They are very popular pets due to their playful and lively personalities and are often considered to be good family dogs. They also have a unique look, with their large ears, short skulls, and stocky bodies. Their small size makes them great for city living as well. Getting a Frenchie without papers can be a great way to save a few bucks, but there are a few things to consider before making your decision. What is a French Bulldog Without Papers? This means that the dog is not considered a purebred and therefore cannot be registered with the AKC. Despite not having papers, these dogs are still of the same breed and have all of the same traits that an AKC registered Frenchie would have. They just do not have the same pedigree and may not have the same level of health guarantees that an AKC registered Frenchie would. When it comes to buying a Frenchie without papers, there are some things to keep in mind. It is important to make sure that the pup is in good physical and mental condition and that they have been socialized properly. Taking the time to ask questions and do research can help to ensure that you find a healthy, happy pup and that you get the best deal possible. These dogs are just as lively and friendly as a Frenchie with papers, but they usually come with a much lower price tag. They tend to be healthier since they are not bred as frequently and are less prone to genetic diseases that can plague heavily-bred lines. There are many reputable breeders and rescue organizations that have Frenchies without papers available. Before making a purchase, make sure to do your research and look for breeders with positive reviews, who have a clear understanding of the breed and health requirements. The Cost of a Frenchie Without Papers When considering the cost of a French Bulldog without papers, one must first understand that it depends on several factors. In some cases, the pup may be cheaper due to health issues or other complications. When looking for a French Bulldog without papers, it is important to be wary of certain sellers who may be taking advantage of unsuspecting buyers. Research the seller thoroughly, and make sure they are reputable. Many unscrupulous sellers may be claiming to have a purebred Frenchie without papers, when in actuality they are selling a hybrid or a dog that is not the breed of their claim. Getting a French Bulldog without papers is not for everyone. Be sure to do your research and contact a reputable breeder in your area to discuss the cost and other important details. That way, you can be sure to get the perfect pup for you. Unveiling the Mystery! The younger the pup, the more expensive it will be. The location of the breeder, the availability of the pup, and their health history can also influence the cost. You also need to make sure that the pup has had all of their shots and has been properly taken care of. Taking these steps will ensure that you get a pup that is healthy and will be a good addition to your home. There are several factors that can affect the total cost. When buying a Frenchie without papers, it is important to consider all of these factors to ensure that you are getting the best deal. The first thing to consider is the bloodlines of the dog. Bloodlines can affect the cost significantly. The more prestigious the bloodlines, the more you will likely have to pay for the dog. Many breeders may also charge more for puppies with lighter or rarer colors or markings. The age of the dog is also a factor to consider when it comes to cost. Puppies are more expensive than adults, and puppies that are younger than 8 weeks old may be more expensive. The location of the breeder and the availability of the breed can also impact the cost, as French Bulldogs can be difficult to find in certain areas and thus may be more expensive. When shopping for a French Bulldog without papers, consider all of these factors before making a decision. Doing your research ahead of time can help ensure that you get the best deal and get the perfect pup for your family. Where to Find a Frenchie Without Papers If you are looking for a French Bulldog without papers, the best place to start is by asking around. Talk to friends and family who may know of a reputable breeder in your area who offers the breed. You can also search online for local breeders or rescue centers. Be sure to check the reputation of any breeder before making a purchase by researching reviews and interviewing the breeder to ask about their breeding practices and health guarantees. Many online Frenchie forums exist, where you can communicate with other owners to learn about their experiences with breeders and rescues. Another option for finding a Frenchie without papers is to attend local dog shows. Attendees often have puppies for sale that do not come with papers. Be sure to ask questions about what has been done to verify the health and temperament of the pup. Consider asking your vet or a local Frenchie club for recommendations. They may have inside knowledge of reliable breeders in your area. Considerations When Buying a Frenchie Without Papers When buying a Frenchie without papers, there are certain considerations that must be taken into account. First and foremost, it is important to ensure that the puppy comes from a trustworthy source. Reputable breeders ensure that the parents of the puppy are healthy and free from genetic diseases. It is also important to research the laws and regulations in the area where the puppy is being purchased, as some areas may require that puppies be registered. It is important to bring a vet with you when picking up the Frenchie without papers. A vet will be able to provide a thorough check-up to ensure that the puppy is healthy and free from any potential medical issues. Always ask the breeder plenty of questions. When buying a Frenchie without papers, it is essential to take the time to research and plan ahead. Doing so can ensure that the Frenchie is healthy and happy and that the purchase is a positive experience for all involved. Post Views: .Check out our French Bulldog Puppies What is included in our prices? We provide nanny service to all major US airports for an extra fee. Shipping to other countries is also possible, contact us for more info! PayPal and Stripe have payment insurance which means that they keep your money pending until you get the puppy. We get your money just after you have confirmed that your puppy has arrived in your arms safe and sound! Shots up-to-date worth USD Our pups receive all the necessary shots while they are with us: 1. Deworming worth 50 USD Our puppies are dewormed every two weeks from the age of 4 weeks old and they also get Simparica Trio against ticks, fleas and heartworms right before they leave. Anti-parasite treatment worth USD We give our puppies anti-parasite treatment against all parasites before they leave except for heart worms. Echocardiogram heart examination, worth 1, USD We do echocardiogram on our Frenchies and when we find the slightest chance of heart murmur in one of them, we rather cancel the adoption and find a loving home for them locally. Valer, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Membership and right to post in the TomKings Frenchie Family closed Facebook group We created a Facebook group for our adopters where we answer their questions and they share their experiences with each other. We are a Family because we are connected by the love towards Frenchies and we are always there to help and support each other, as well as share valuable experiences and advice! Only TomKings Frenchie parents are allowed to post and ask from us or any other member in the group. Participation in TomKings Frenchie Meetups We organize Frenchie Meetups in major cities throughout the States where you can talk with other TomKings Frenchie owners and exchange advice while your Frenchies are playing with each other. Frenchie Love eBook worth .Lifetime Health Guarantee We give you a lifetime health guarantee on all genetic disorders which cause death, which means that we send you another puppy if your Frenchie dies. We have never had that so far since the parent dogs go through a rigorous selection process before the breeding program and our vet checks the puppies often. We know that Frenchie owners have a bunch of questions about feeding, raising, training, etc. Our goal is to have only happy and healthy puppies so we will always be there to answer your questions! Lifetime vet assistance Frenchie owners have a lot of questions about the health of their puppies and most of the time they run to their vet right away and leave a fortune there for nothing. We even tell you whether you need to visit your vet at all! Health certification TomKings Frenchies are examined strictly before they leave for their new homes and we give you a health certificate which can be used if you want to have insurance for your puppy which we highly recommend. Exceptional care We treat every puppy as a family member from the moment they are born. We believe that the secret of having socialized and healthy Frenchie puppies is spending time with them all day long and letting them run and play in the backyard. Potty training It is crucial how puppies are trained at the beginning of their lives. At TomKings Puppies we are focusing not only on their health but their proper training as well. We start potty training for them so that you have a much easier job! Ultimate Guide. We suggest you talk with your prospective breeders about these issues. No puppy, regardless of color, has any guarantees. However, finding a reputable breeder and getting applicable health screenings of pups and parents will go a long way. They are not a guarantee of health but do have advantages. If he or she is the offspring of happy, healthy, purebred parents you should expect to pay more. Some less, some more. The farther they are from you, the more the puppy or you will have to travel, and the greater the travel expense will be. Eastern European bloodlines tend to be a bit bigger than their US counterparts. We have encountered many people who have French Bulldogs from Ukraine, for example, and report being happy owners. But there are also many reports of puppy mills just like we have here in the US. Make sure the dogs are happy, healthy, and well cared for. Delivery Costs If you are sticking with local breeders or those within driving distance, you may not have any delivery costs at all. But some puppies are making a much longer trip though; either cross-country or from another country altogether. Yes, Frenchies can fly on airplanes, but certain rules apply. Learn more here. Have you ever heard of a Flight Nanny? You can then pick up the little furball at the airport and have him gently placed into your loving arms! Of course, this adds to the cost. Expect to pay at least a few hundred dollars for this service. Many breeders will retire their older dogs and give them to such organizations. Because of their high price, you need to be extra careful to find a reputable breeder. These dogs are sometimes exploited for their high cost and reputation as status symbols and cash sources. Because of this, some dogs end up in the hands of a rescue organization. Other reasons for adoptable dogs are families who move and can not have pets in the new home, an allergy develops, or possibly health issues of the dog or its owners. Searching Petfinder. Animal Shelters Call various animal shelters to ask if they have or know of any French Bulldogs available. Online Ads Check ads on internet marketplace sites for amateur breeders. You have to be more careful with amateur breeders, but they will usually be much cheaper. Be doubly sure these breeders are taking all necessary health precautions with the dogs. Be very careful when meeting unknown people that you met via the internet. Always arrange to meet in a public place with a lot of people and take any other precautions that you deem necessary to ensure your safety. AKC Papers or Not? This allows you to compete in AKC competition and ensures the parents were registered. Think of it as a box being checked, and not much more. It indicates the breeder is at least going through the processes. The more important factors are: Will the breeder let you visit the puppies and meet the parents? What are the living conditions? What health tests were done on the parents and puppies? Other Checks: Because there are several other breeds that resemble the French Bulldog, unscrupulous breeders will sometimes try to pass these off as French Bulldogs so as to turn a profit. The surest way to avoid this sort of scam is to familiarize yourself with the traits of the French Bulldog so that you can learn how to spot a fake. Our Complete French Bulldog Overview is a great place to start becoming familiar with Frenchie traits. Always ask for plenty of pictures and accept no excuses. They are certainly popular, but they can be expensive compared to some other more common breeds. The cost is high to breed them and because of this, there are fewer breeders in the market. The demand often outweighs the supply, and that means the prices go up even further. There is another factor that contributes to the high price of this breed. French Bulldogs are unable to breed and give birth in a natural way, and this means that they require artificial insemination and C-sections. Also, puppies of this breed have a slightly higher mortality rate than most other dog breeds, which also contributes to the cost. Obviously, these fertility issues are why relatively few breeders will choose the French Bulldog. The extra time and costs associated with the breeding process are probably the main reasons for the high cost of a French Bulldog. It goes without saying that a puppy will usually cost less than a full-grown dog. That being said, the health of a puppy cannot always be guaranteed, making French Bulldog puppies an expensive gamble. Your choice in the source of your dog is an essential one. If you are going to pay the kinds of prices that these dogs normally cost, you need to be more than a little bit picky. If you are looking for a cheap price, Eastern European breeders are often a good way to go. Calling all of the various animal shelters within reasonable driving distance. Again, this one is a long shot since this breed is much less likely to be caught as a stray. Bear in mind that such a dog may have been abused and may require a different training approach. Never use harsh discipline on a dog who has been traumatized. Instead of instilling discipline, you will only trigger a fear response and possibly even aggression. Checking various online ads for amateur breeders who charge less for their puppies. Make sure you vet amateur breeders as thoroughly as possible. Many websites do background checks for a small fee. Contact French Bulldog owners on the internet and ask them to recommend a good breeder. Facebook groups can be a good place to meet other French Bulldog lovers and get referrals for good breeders. Contacting French Bulldog owners via Instagram can be another way of getting some good recommendations. One of these is obesity, as the dog is an example of extreme mixing. The result is a small dog with the appetite of a large dog. Because of this, it is recommended that you feed your French Bulldog a lean but nutritious diet. Although that pug nose is adorable, dogs with this feature are more likely to develop certain respiratory problems. If left untrimmed, the nails of a Frenchie will eventually get long enough to cause them significant pain. In essence, the nails will outgrow the dog. Another thing to remember is that Frenchies cannot swim. Their body structure is not buoyant at all, and they will sink like a rock. Always be aware of this fact, and keep your dog away from the water. Related Questions: These are two of the most frequently asked questions regarding this breed. Do French Bulldogs have health problems? In a manner of speaking, yes. French Bulldogs are more prone to certain health problems. Like all brachycephalic pug-nosed dogs, they are prone to breathing problems, especially in hot or humid weather and should always be watched for signs of overheating. They are also at greater risk for obesity and the various problems that can result. Also, they seem to have a higher risk of hip problems and heart issues later in life. If you have bought your puppy from a competent and registered breeder, your puppy should already be pre-registered. A new litter can be registered as soon as it is born, and any breeder of high-end dogs should be doing this as a normal practice. Most likely, you will need to take some very specific types of photos and fill out some forms. All in all, the process is not particularly hard, but it can take some time for the organization to process your registration. The French Bulldog is a wonderful pet, known for its high energy level, playfulness, and extreme intelligence. We would certainly never discourage anyone from buying the pet that they truly want, but you should think carefully before investing in a dog of this sort. We hope that this article has been helpful in aiding your decision and that you will be fortunate enough to find the right dog at the right price. Check out all our French Bulldog articles for more Frenchie facts, information, and helpful guides. Click here to see them all. Related Posts:. Depending on where you live and who you intend to buy your French Bulldog from will be the major factors that affect the price of your French Bulldog puppy. The AKC is the only legitimate canine registry in America. Any other registry is a paper mill, a puppy mill registry, and a scam. That does not mean that if you want to adopt a French Bulldog from a reputable French Bulldog rescue network that you should not adopt a dog that is not registered with the AKC. You will find that very few if any French Bulldogs available for adoption will have their proper paperwork. This is because French Bulldogs in rescues are typically forfeited or rescued from malicious owners who did not care for them. French Bulldog Cost — Why so expensive? What makes a french bulldog cost so much? Regrettably, French Bulldogs are a very rare breed of dog. French Bulldog dams female mommy doggies cannot deliver litters by natural birth. Allowing a French Bulldog to deliver by natural birth almost always jeopardizes the puppies and the dam, often resulting in the loss of a puppy and sometimes even the dam. An experienced breeder knows that French Bulldogs must undergo cesarean section in order to have safely have healthy babies. Cesarean sections are expensive as well as the initial immunizations for the puppies, and not to mention the round-the-clock care required for the new mother and her french bulldog puppies. Then add to that the cost of feeding, veterinary checkups, toys, bedding and comfort items, and miscellaneous materials required to raise a litter of puppies. All of this gets very expensive, so breeders can charge a premium for their puppies. Besides their inherently expensive pricing, Frenchies are also prone to many, many health issues that require prevention and regular very, very regular visits to the vet. Veterinarians are not cheap. As an example, we recently purchased a new female puppy as a playmate for our adult male. You see now how the price of the puppy itself is only one consideration? See what makes a french bulldog cost so much money? French bulldogs require the equivalent care of a toddler. To truly care and provide a healthy life for a french bulldog means having the disposable income to offset their inherently high costs. Further, the upfront french bulldog cost is only one consideration. There are myriad secondary costs associated with owning a french bulldog. Take a step back and consider your finances, the time required to care for a french bulldog, and the overall commitment involved: the cost is more than money. Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article. If you live out of State, and one of our carriers is flying your puppy to you, it will be given to you when he meets you at the airport with your puppy. Below is the guarantee portion of our sales contract. The remainder of the sales contract lists other pertinent details such as names, addresses, and contact numbers of sellers and buyer s ; immunization and health record; payment record; signatures and dates; etc. For this guarantee to be valid, you must have your puppy checked by a licensed veterinarian DMV within 30 days from the date you take possession and the results communicated to us. Any significant issues found by your vet during this, or any subsequent examination, should be communicated to us ASAP. We breed only high-quality, healthy males and females and which have no known significant health issues and which have been DNA tested for the common Frenchie defects. As a result, our puppies, which have all been thoroughly examined by our vet, have had excellent overall health. While there is no such thing as a perfect puppy, just as there are no perfect humans, you are adopting a high-quality Frenchie puppy. If your Frenchie is significantly debilitated or dies within the first year due to a congenital defect, as confirmed by a competent necropsy at your expense, we will replace your puppy with a comparable puppy when one is available we increase this to two years if NuVet supplements are used. You will be responsible for all shipping costs associated with a replacement puppy. At our discretion, other arrangements acceptable to both parties may be made. In some cases, such as small umbilical hernias, undescended testicles, excessively narrow nostrils, cherry eye, etc. If your vet finds any health issues which our vet has missed, communicate to us immediately and we will work out a fair resolution with you. All of the French Bulldog puppies that are adopted from us will come with a minimum of 3-generation pedigree charts for both parents, a vet check letter, and a sales contract with health record, in addition to the AKC paperwork. It is your responsibility to submit the paperwork to the AKC and pay the appropriate registration fees for the type of registration you desire, if any. There is an extra cost to purchase a puppy with full AKC registration, so unless you plan on breeding or showing your Frenchie in AKC conformation events, you will only need to consider limited registration. If you purchase a puppy with full AKC registration, there is no guarantee of show potential when your puppy matures, regardless of show potential at the time of purchase, and there is no size guarantee for a French Bulldog puppy when it reaches maturity, although an estimated weight range can be provided based on past data and family history. Frenchies with limited registration can still be entered into virtually all AKC events with the exception of conformation events which are for evaluating breeding stock. When you take your Frenchie to be spayed or neutered, you will be asked if you want a blood test taken. Young dogs frequently have one or more readings outside of established norms for any number of reasons, often very short term, and they generally have little if any impact on the health or quality of life of your Frenchie. Invariably, any blood test readings outside of established norms result in expensive analyses, testing, and procedures that are oftentimes unnecessary and provide no benefit to your dog. In general, our guarantee does not cover the cost of any blood testing nor any analyses, procedures, or medications associated with any blood testing which is performed. Of course, our guarantee as spelled out in 2 above is in full force. The French Bulldog is a chondrodystrophic dwarf and a brachycephalic short-faced breed, and, like all dogs in this category, all Frenchies have some degree of brachycephalic syndrome characterized by narrow nostrils and somewhat elongated palates. This produces the endearing noises made by the Frenchie noisy breathing, snorting, and snoring and their inability to deal as effectively with excessive heat, exertion, and stress as longer nosed breeds. In most cases, the symptoms are mild and, if caution is taken to include smaller and more frequent meals if they gulp their food , they will live long and healthy lives. If your Frenchie develops severe brachycephalic syndrome symptoms that your vet confirms and determines need to be alleviated through surgery, we will help with the cost of the surgery. We have had only rare incidents of demodex hot spots or skin allergies with any of our Frenchies, although both can be common in the breed. These are usually easily treated and cured, sometimes with a diet change, and are not covered by our guarantee. If you do experience problems, contact us for advice. Also, almost all Frenchies will acquire the characteristic bat-ears when they are 4 to 12 weeks old. Occasionally, a Frenchie will need a little help in training its ears to stand erect. We demonstrate how this is done on our website under FAQs. We are proactive in the health care of all of our French Bulldogs. Each of our puppies has received up-to-date immunizations and preventive treatments for worms, giardia, and coccidia. However, all puppies are considered high-risk for coccidia and giardia and other intestinal bacteria and parasites, and preventive treatment is no guarantee that none of these issues will appear as they can be brought on by the stress of shipping, a new home and environment, a diet change, new people and playmates, a change in climate, etc. Our guarantee does not cover the cost of treatment for any of these conditions. This contract does not cover death, injuries, illnesses, or debilitating disorders that result from accidents, neglect, or improper care, including injuries sustained from a jump or fall from an excessive height or from excessive exertion or stress, especially in hot weather. You, the owner, agree to provide high-quality food, adequate shelter the French Bulldog is primarily an inside dog and does not tolerate excessive heat or cold , regular vet checks, and age appropriate vaccinations and dewormings including heart worm medication. Failure to provide proper care for your French Bulldog will void this warranty. Frenchies generally do not swim and do not tolerate exertion and stress as well as non-brachycephalic breeds. Have More Questions?

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Arizona Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Arizona? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Arizona? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Nature has a way of changing our plans sometimes. We cannot put in an order for the correct amount of females or males. We will also only breed if we have a substantial amount of commitment deposits for that litter. Please be patient, we are committed to find the right puppy for you, it might even be with another breeder we recommend that would better fit your needs. Phoenix, Arizona. We breed quality Golden Retrievers for service, therapy, facility, hunting and pets. Sires we pick have all of the same health certifications as well. Which means that our goals for being a good breeder revolve around Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility and Tradition. Our local owners enjoy six weeks of free puppy classes after they take their pups home and have unlimited counseling with us and our trainer. Family Pets Goldens are made to love We believe Golden Retrievers are the best for all types of owners. They are so gentle that you can be assured your loved ones are safe around these wonderful dogs with responsible training. Service, Therapy and Facility Dogs goldens are made to serve We breed for service, therapy and facility dogs at a high quality. All of our puppies are trained as if they are going into service. We typically have about pups in every litter that go into service of some kind. We usualy donate one puppy out of every litter. It is our tithe and a gift we love to give to someone in need. Our Training Mission goldens are made to work We strive for excellence in our training program. All puppies are introduced to many sounds, textures and surfaces to create a confident dog. We offer complimentary 6 weeks of puppy Socialization and Obedience with their litter mates. Testimonials "Quality parentage and conscientious breeding standards.He is beyond eager to learn. She has truly changed our lives, especially our daughters life. They are affectionate, obedient and loyal to a fault. Originally bred as a hunting dog for retrieving waterfowl it makes an ideal pet for any type of family. They make a great family dog because of its patience, versatility, and adaptability. A golden retriever is super easy to train because of how smart and devoted they are to their owner. Goldens are gentle and playful with children and other pets, making them a perfect family pet. Their coat comes in various shades of gold and is dense, waterproof and may be wavy or straight. Discover more about our Golden Retriever puppies below! Interestingly, the Golden Retriever is very calm and relaxed indoors despite its hunting roots. However, they immensely enjoy activities, such as carrying objects around in its mouth and a good game of catch. The breed is faithful, obedient and easy to train. Golden Retriever Disposition The Golden Retriever does best when kept inside with the family, though it needs daily exercise. The Golden Retriever is very playful. Not surprisingly, it lives up to its name as a great retriever, excelling in games of catch and carrying objects around in its mouth. While it enjoys active time outdoors, the Golden Retriever is calm indoors — making it a great household pet for anyone. They do especially well with kids too. This breed is highly regarded for its love of human companionship. It is faithful, obedient and picks up easily on new commands. The Golden Retriever is among the easiest breeds to train. Its enthusiasm for learning new tricks and the ability to quickly and easily understand new commands makes it a pleasure to own and train. See store for details on this particular puppy. American Canine Association.

Quickly place your dog in their designated potty area. Praise them when they urinate or mess in the correct area. You must always watch them when they are loose in the house, or else they will have an accident. Follow this guide on potty training your German Shepherd , step-by-step, for a stress-free experience. Enjoy Gentle Daily Exercise German Shepherd puppies have lots of energy but still need gentle exercise. Your breed is highly active and loves the challenge of new activities! But these activities must consider their age. Start with a shorter walking session and work on building up the time and distance as your dog matures. Increase distance very slowly to avoid injuries to your dog. Begin with only 5 minutes of slow walking for every month your pup is old. An 8-week-old pup can walk 10 minutes at a time. A week-old pup can handle 15 minutes of walking at a leisurely pace. Your large-breed pup needs time to let its bone fully fuse and to gain an increase in strength. Here are a few more safe, healthy German Shepherd puppy exercise for steady growth. This is the same program I used for my GSD and she now jogs a 10k routinely. Mental Exercise and Training are Essentials Without proper mental exercise, your dog becomes bored. Boredom leads to destructive and annoying behaviors such as: excessive barking biting and nipping you and your guests mouthing your hands or digging up your yard Brain games mentally stimulate your dog. These games require your dog to figure out a small task to receive a reward. Mental activity is shown to help keep dogs more engaged in their environments and prevent boredom. They help control unwanted behaviors from boredom. I started my German Shepherd with this activity flip board dog brain puzzle. As your dog becomes proficient in a game, you make the game more challenging. There is no end to how easy or hard you can make these games! Learn the Joys of Grooming Start puppies out with grooming gloves, which are gentle and easier on their skin. GSDs need a brushing routine that keeps them and your house free from excessive loose hair and helps their skin stay healthy. Use these grooming gloves on your puppy while in a quiet area. They are soft and gentle and create a positive association with future grooming. Offer tasty treats to keep the grooming upbeat. Use a soothing voice and tell them how good they are. Above all, help make grooming and brushing positive experiences from the very start to save yourself and your dog stress later. A baby German Shepherd that tolerates and even enjoys a daily brushing is a dog that is easier to keep in better health and experiences less frustration when you bring out the grooming tools. While a puppy gets immunity through nursing in the first weeks of life, the immunity wears off shortly. Therefore puppies get a series of shots during their initial vaccination schedule. Vaccines prevent illness and keep your pet safe from disease. Your breeder should give your pup their first vaccination series before you bring them home. Bring this vaccination history with you to your vet on your first visit. Your Priority of Care What to Do 1. Make your house puppy ready for your new dog Prepare their sleep area, have the right supplies on hand, and make sure any hazards are put away out of reach. Communicate the essentials Have a list of words printed out so that you and your family know what to say to help your puppy learn what you want and what he needs to know. Meet their daily needs Your puppy has a lot to do each day for their basic care, so understand what routine you must develop for them to thrive. Set sleep routines Having a sleep routine in place keeps your puppy from becoming too unruly. Teach potty training Start from day 1 to teach potty and house training by using a structured schedule. Daily gentle exercise German Shepherd puppies need gentle exercise so avoid running, jumping, or jogging with them until around 18 months or so to prevent joint issues later. Brain training and mental stimulation Your smart breed needs to keep their mind occupied by using a training program to brain train their obedience skills and include mental stimulation with fun games and puzzles. Early introduction to grooming A grooming glove is your best friend for a safe, easy introduction to later brushing and coat maintenance. German Shepherd Puppy Care for Life While there are many aspects to puppies, this guide is a great start on learning how to take care of a German Shepherd puppy so you feel confident with your new puppy. These early encounters set the pattern of his future relationship with you. Use these ideas to make your German Shepherd love you and give them plenty of love and affection throughout the day. With proper care and attention, you and your GSD will enjoy a long, happy life together. Want more help with your German Shepherd puppy care for even smoother sailing? Are you prepared for any unusual and surprising behavior changes? Do you know what training your dog needs and when? She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. German Shepherd dogs are known for their athletic capabilities, intelligence, and loyalty, making them one of India's most sought after breeds. Dog lovers are enamoured by the German shepherd's majestic appearance, intellect and guarding abilities. If you have decided or have recently become a German Shepherd's parent, you should be grateful to have such a loving and loyal companion who will stand by you no matter what in the years to come. However, parenting a German Shepherd is not an easy feat. Multiple factors need to be taken into consideration before you are confident that you will be able to provide for the needs of this dog. Parenting a German Shepherd is a highly gratifying affair, but the first step is choosing your puppy and caring for it. It needs to be planned out carefully to ensure that you and your dog spend all your days enjoying maximum satisfaction. This article will run you down through all the crucial decisions and actions that must be taken, starting from whether you should parent a German Shepherd, all the way to how you can care for your puppy. Is a German Shepherd is right for you? Before answering this question, it is imperative to check if parenting any German Shepherd is right for you to begin with. This breed is a very demanding one. It requires plentiful exercise to remain physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate playtime and activity, dogs of this breed can become destructive. So the question here is, do you have the facilities required to give your German shepherd this level of exercise? Do you have a yard, a park or a lawn near you where you can exercise your dog? Do you have the time to take them out on frequent walks? German Shepherds are usually suitable for people who engage in high-intensity sports such as running and bicycling. Will you be able to engage in such activities for the benefit of your dog as well as you? Similarly, German Shepherds are highly sociable animals and thrive in interactive environments. They need other dogs or people around them most of the time. Does your daily routine allow you to be near your dog for long periods of time? If you plan to leave your German shepherd at home for hours a day while you are working, this breed may not be suitable for you. Dogs of this breed are also prone to excessive shedding, and you need to be ready to find a lot of dog fur all around you. Being a large breed, feeding and taking care of these dogs are time and money intensive. They live long lives and can suffer from health problems too, and thus, caring for them can be an expensive affair. Thus, these are some of the questions that need to be answered to gauge whether a German Shepherd is indeed right for you to begin with. With these conditions in place, this breed may not be ideal for first-time dog parents. Coming to the type of German Shepherd that is right for you, this breed can be classified into two categories - work line type and show line type dogs. The differentiation is based on the heritage of the dogs of this breed and the purpose for which they were bred. Show lines were mainly bred for their look, colour and body type. Work Lines were primarily bred for their health and personality rather than to look a certain way. The line you choose depends on what you really want to be doing with your German shepherd. Work lines should be chosen if you seek a family pet or want some type of function to be performed because this type is known for its trainability, knowledge and skill. However, if you are more concerned with your dog's appearance, then going after show lines might be more appropriate. It must be mentioned, though, that it is possible to find show line dogs with the same characteristics as work line dogs and vice versa if they have been bred by individuals who are concerned with their appearance as well as health. Beyond work and show lines, age is another essential factor to consider. A good breeder would not offer puppies that are lesser than 8 weeks old as they still require their mother's milk as well as other social skills. Puppies who have received this from their mothers will be less likely to engage in destructive and unruly behaviour. First and foremost, verify that the puppy's parents have good health and desirable temperaments. Then examine the puppy in terms of health and hygiene by checking the eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, paws, etc. Study the gait of your puppy; it should be even. With German Shepherds, in particular, it is vital that you choose a pup that does not have undesirable traits. Visit the breeder at least four to five times before making a decision. Choosing a pup from the litter that is neither the timidest nor the most dominant would be wise if you want a bit of both traits. A German Shepherd puppy that is well built, energetic and sociable would be ideal. Next, to gauge the temperament of a puppy you want to select, you could perform a few simple tests, such as making eye contact with them. If they hold contact, it reflects confidence. It might be a sign of nervousness and anxiety if it looks away. Clapping your hands is another simple test. If the puppy runs away, it can be judged as timid, but it can signify that the pup wants to be friends if it approaches you. Similarly, other tests include calling the puppy to pet it, introducing it to a new toy, making a sudden noise, lifting the puppy and holding it above your head, or grabbing its paw. The reaction of puppies to such actions can provide much-needed insight into a puppy's temperament and help prospective dog parents make the right choice. On the one hand, if you prefer a dog that isn't prone to undermining your authority, it would be sensible to choose a moderately submissive puppy. On the other hand, if you want a dog for protection, it would be wise to choose a tough, trainable, and courageous puppy. After four to five visits, it would be possible for you to judge correctly - the personality and various character traits of the puppy you're interested in. As German Shepherds have highly individual personalities, you might bond more with one German Shepherd than the other. Lastly, before making a final decision, it is always good to ask the breeder for their opinion, as good breeders often have vital information about their puppies and can provide valuable insight into their characteristics and temperaments, thereby ensuring that you exactly find what you are looking for. Bringing Your German Shepherd Puppy Home Once you have established a rapport with a puppy and have made up your mind about becoming a dog parent, or a dog parent to another puppy, take a friend or companion with you who can help you clean up if your puppy is carsick. If you intend on making your puppy comfortable in a crate, give the crate to the breeder a few days before you bring the puppy home so that the breeder can help it acclimatize itself to the crate. The first day at home will be a traumatic experience for your puppy as it is away from its family. Thus, ensure that your puppy has a place to be comfortable and relaxed, with an adequate amount of food and water. It would be wise to spend some time exclusively with your puppy initially, such as an extended weekend plan so that your bond can grow. Be sure to collect your puppy's adoption contract and veterinary records. Furthermore, find out the exact kind of food that the breeder was giving the puppy you just adopted. Giving your pup entirely different food during the first few days can be traumatic for them. With their unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds, your home and car can frighten your puppy, leading it to stress out and get anxious. Anticipate this and give your pup some time to adjust to the new environment. The first few days can be demanding as a dog parent because you need to adapt to changes in your schedule with the arrival of your puppy. Similarly, the puppy, too, can cry, whine or get overly affectionate, which can be regarded as coping mechanisms to deal with the sudden change in environment. During this time, make sure you don't scold your puppy or be overly affectionate either. Before bringing your newly adopted puppy home, it is essential for you to puppy-proof your home! Go down on all fours and check for sharp objects, hazardous materials, or any other dangerous substance that your puppy might end up chewing or swallowing. Cover your electrical outlets as well. Stock your home with food that your puppy has been eating while under the breeder's care. Keep an adequate amount of food and water, water bowls, treats, and grooming tools such as brushes, shampoos for puppies and nail clippers. Cleaning detergent for stains and smells will also come in handy in case of any accidents. Decide on that area of the house that will be where your puppy spends most of its time. This step is crucial as constantly changing your puppy's place can lead to disruptive sleep patterns and cause stress. German Shepherds, being extremely active, will tend to run across your halls, and in such cases, an accident or two are bound to happen. In such cases, it would be a good idea to restrict your dog's movements to areas that can be cleaned easily. Furthermore, German Shepherds have sharp claws and can ruin expensive hardwood floors, so it would be wise to keep them away from such flooring. As mentioned previously, your puppy will be nervous during the first few days. Frequent bathroom breaks will be a necessity for your pup, and thus, keep an area designated just for this purpose. Also, let your dog run around the house and acquaint itself with its surroundings. If your dog is chewing or biting furniture in a puppy-proofed home, you could offer a toy as a distraction. If you have children, teach them how to properly handle your puppy without being too rough. If you have other pets, give your pup a chance to meet and acknowledge them. Be careful while introducing your puppy to other puppies and grown dogs. However, most dogs are not aggressive with puppies, so it is doubtful that you will face problems on this front. Between eight and sixteen weeks of age, Puppies require plenty of clean water to drink and many meals a day. They also have small bladders and hence, will urinate often. Since they expend a lot of energy during the day, they will take several naps. It would be recommended to begin a daily routine for your pup and stick to it. Since German Shepherds require a lot of physical activity, taking them out in the mornings and evenings for an adequate amount of time religiously would be necessary. The faster you get your pup accustomed to a routine, the more beneficial it is to better sleeping schedules and better mental and physical health. When you begin house training your dog, be sure to praise them when they relieve themselves in designated areas but refrain from punishing them if they fail to do so. Remember that your home is a new environment for them, and thus, it will take a while to house train them. Training Your German Shepherd Puppy. Training your dog from the day they come home is very important. Clear rules should be set that should not be broken. For example, if you do not want your dog to get on the bed, do not let them come on the bed ever. Allowing them sometimes and then not other times gets confusing for your dog, and they may not be able to learn the desired behaviour effectively. Training your puppy can be divided into two stages, each with different objectives. The first stage of training needs to take place when your pup is between eight to sixteen weeks of age. In this period, socialization, house training and crate training goals must be accomplished. The second stage of training needs to occur when your puppy is three months of age until about 9 months. The main objectives of this training phase are obedience training, impulse control, and recall. From 8 - 16 weeks Goal: Socialization German shepherds are very protective of their owners. This makes it essential to make them see that other individuals are not necessarily threats. This period is critical to expose your puppy to different people in non-threatening situations. This can help them grow more confident around strangers instead of becoming hostile. Socialization creates a strong foundation for the rest of your puppy's training. One example of socialization comes from the grooming requirements of this breed. German Shepherds need to be groomed regularly so that they don't shed a lot. Thus, introducing them to groomers at a young age and to tools like blow dryers and nail clippers can help achieve this goal of adapting to social environments. Furthermore, to improve their mental development, expose your puppy to new sights, sounds and smells to help their confidence improve. Goal: Crate Training Training your puppy to sleep or stay in a crate can be difficult at first as they might face separation anxiety. Crate training is necessary if you prefer sleeping alone or washing the utensils in the kitchen and need your puppy to stay in one place for a couple of minutes. Patience is key to achieving this goal. Help them get over their separation anxiety with the help of treats and toys. You can also use your crate for feeding purposes to help your pup get more acclimated to it. Goal: House Training A strict schedule can help get your dog house trained. When your pup is around 8 weeks old, it should be taken outside for a bathroom break every two hours or so. At 12 weeks, it should be taken every 3 hours and around 16 weeks, every 4 hours or so. Begin teaching your puppy how to eliminate on cue by looking for signs such as sniffing the floor or circling a particular spot, or going to an area where it has made a mess before. Using a command to push your puppy to go outside to relieve itself can be helpful. Remember to praise your pup when it obeys such actions. From 3 - 9 Months Goal: Obedience Training German Speherds are acutely intellectual and have a commendable work ethic. Training that has begun early and consistently can help your puppy's best traits and features emerge with time. Dogs of this breed are excellent at obeying commands, and you can begin this type of training by teaching basic commands such as stay, down, and up. They can even be trained to walk on a leash easily during this period. Goal: Recall When obedience training is done right, the goal of recalling or successfully calling your puppy to come to you becomes relatively easier. Achieving recall takes patience and practice. It should be done diligently and on a daily basis, using treats and toys as incentives. Achieving this goal can come in handy during emergency situations as well. Goal: Impulse Control German Shepherds are highly susceptible to boredom, often resulting in excessive and inappropriate chewing, barking, chasing, etc. They also have a tendency to chase down cars and even cats. Such impulses need to be controlled as they can otherwise lead to destructive and problematic behaviour. Training for impulse control simply means getting your puppy to pay attention to you when required. You can begin such type of training by getting your puppy to sit before eating or using commands during playtime, which makes them focus on your voice only. Treats and toys could be attractive incentives to encourage your pup to respond positively to commands. Feeding Your German Shepherd Puppy. Remember to follow the breeder's diet in the initial days and gradually change this diet to incorporate different foods. Milk should not be given to puppies at this age as it can cause diarrhoea. Puppies need to be given food rich in protein, calcium and fats as they are still growing. Their food needs to be higher in calories when compared to the food given to a grown dog. When you give your puppy a food bowl, give it a specific window of time to finish eating, such as 10 or 15 minutes. After this period, remove the bowl. This will help your pup understand that it has to eat during a specific period of time only, which is a valuable component of obedience training. Between 4 to 6 months of age, you can start feeding your puppy increased portions of food four times a day. Foods such as meat and vegetables would be ideal. Treats should only be resorted to during training and not as actual food for mealtimes. Make sure to never give leftover human food to puppies as they contain spices, salt, sugar and so on, which are very unhealthy for dogs. FAQs: Are german shepherd puppies hard to take care of? Not just german shepherds, all puppies are hard to take care of initially. This is because it is exactly like getting a newborn baby home. There will be sleepless nights, vet visits, training, creating and sticking to routines and so on. However, these efforts will eventually pay off, because once your pup is trained, they will be socialized and can adapt to your lifestyle easily. How many times should a german shepherd puppy eat a day? For up to four months, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Post this period, gradually reduce the number of times your pup is fed. After eight to nine months, two meals a day will suffice. Where should my german shepherd sleep? German shepherds are highly sociable animals and should not be left alone for too long. Puppies should be trained to sleep in a crate or share the bed with you if you so desire. As they grow older, they can be allowed to sleep in a crate, or in an area specially designed for them. What are the best foods for german shepherd puppies? Like other puppies, they too require meals that are high in protein, grain-free, rich in good quality fats without any chemicals, artificial additives etc. Is it okay to feed a german Shephard 3 times a day? Up to eight to nine months of age, it is okay to feed your German Shepherd three times a day. However, feeding them twice a day is more than enough beyond this age. The amount of food ultimately depends on your dog's age, size, weight, and levels of physical activity. When do german shepherd puppies stop biting and jumping? It is perfectly normal for your puppy to constantly bite, chew, or jump for the first four to six months. However, while teething is normal, you must redirect your puppy to chew on toys and other things that are appropriate instead of household furniture. Do not wait to think issues will be resolved after months. Get professional help from day 1 to teach your pup the right behaviours. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Since German shepherds are large, active dogs and are known to have hips that give out, it's important to make sure they have good nutrition throughout their lives. Make sure to buy healthy food that is not full of filler ingredients. For example, make sure you are feeding a quality food that contains animal protein and doesn't use corn for protein. You can feed your German shepherd dry or wet food, or a combination of both. If you choose to feed your German shepherd homemade meals, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about what they need to include. This will help ensure that the dog will get a balanced diet. Try to resist giving your dog table scraps, especially if it is begging for them. People food can be unhealthy for the dog and can impact its interest in its healthy food. As your dog ages, it will have different nutritional needs. Feed your dog a food that is designed for its specific age, such as a puppy food when it very young, an adult food when it is in middle age, and senior food when it is in old age. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source There are also specific formulas you may need to consider at some point, for example, special foods for large breeds or weight control food for overweight dogs. Talk to your vet about what food will work best for your dog. Because your vet will understand your specific dog's health issues, they may want it to get specific nutritional needs met. Instead, mix the foods together, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the old food over the course of several weeks. Look at the packaging of the food to determine the suggested serving size. This should be based on the size and age of your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about how much they think your dog should be eating. It is best to divide your German shepherd's daily food into 2 or more smaller meals. Giving smaller meals helps to minimize the risk of bloat, which is a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Go to source When you feed your dog several times a day, your dog will need to relieve themselves shortly after each meal. Never exercise a German shepherd right after they eat since this could increase the risk of bloating. In addition to feeding it healthy food, the snacks you feed your German shepherd can have an impact on its health. Pick low calorie treats that are satisfying for dogs, including crunchy vegetables and kibble in a feeding toy that slows the dog's consumption down. Dogs can drink a lot of water every day and it's important that they do to prevent dehydration. Fill up its bowl with clean water every day and leave it where your dog has access to it. Also, check up on the bowl throughout the day, if possible, to make sure there is plenty of water available. However, German shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day, instead of drinking a large amount at one time. Gradually hydrating throughout the day will ensure that the dog doesn't get bloat. Dehydration can be a threat to your dog's health. Signs that it might be dehydrated and needs more water include excessive panting, loss of appetite, and dry nose or gums. If you see these symptoms, give your dog water immediately. Go to source Advertisement. As a breed, however, German Shepherds often show these other traits: Easily bored if not given something to do, which may lead to barking or chewing Can be rambunctious and rowdy, especially as a younger dog Overprotective of family and territory if not socialized properly Can have an unstable temperament if not bred properly, including excessive barking, hyperactivity, or aggression Suspicious of strangers Prone to a number of health problems She is a faithful companion that can excel at most anything. With early socialization and confident leadership, she is a cheerful and dependable addition to any family. The German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany in .The German Shepherd has consistently been one of the most popular breeds in the United States since the early s with a rise in fame then attributed to canine film stars Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart. GSDs are favored working dogs because of their strength, intelligence, versatility, and obedient natures. The German Shepherd is unmatched in her devotion and courage. She is eager to serve a greater cause with her human companions. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Shepherd. By knowing about health concerns specific to German Shepherd Dogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in German Shepherd Dogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for German Shepherd Dogs. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your GSD looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your German Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections German Shepherd Dogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in German Shepherd Dogs. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. The Vida Veterinary Care doctors will also recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Shepherd is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This means your Shepherd is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Digestive Disorders Several inherited conditions can cause recurring vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss in your Shepherd. These conditions include pancreatic or intestinal disease, food sensitivities, and food allergies. Some of these problems may begin very early in life. To help prevent these conditions, feed only a high-quality pet food we can help you choose the right diet and, most importantly, avoid snacks and table food. The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific digestive disorders your pet may encounter. Bleeding Disorders Your breed is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test, as we may not know your pet has this disorder until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency The pancreas has two major functions: regulating blood sugar and helping digest food. Digestive enzymes are produced by the exocrine part of the pancreas. GSDs are at an increased risk of having too few digestive enzymes, a disorder called exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. This causes inadequate digestion and absorption of nutrients leading to weight loss; foul-smelling, greasy diarrhea; and a dry and flaky coat due to his inability to absorb dietary fats. Lifelong dietary supplementation of digestive enzymes is an effective therapy. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. The disease is caused when the jelly-like cushion between one or more vertebrae slips or ruptures, causing the disc to press on the spinal cord. If your dog is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump or go up stairs, is reluctant to move around, has a hunched back, cries out, or refuses to eat or go potty, he is likely in severe pain. He may even experience sudden paralysis—he may drag his back feet or be unable to get up or use his back legs. Call us or an emergency clinic immediately! For less severe cases, rest and medication may resolve the problem. And as with so many other diseases, weight control helps reduce the risk of IVDD. You should also provide ramps or steps for your pet from puppyhood on to prevent your dog from stressing his back by jumping on and off of the furniture. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Growing Shepherds can suffer from a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs called eosinophilic panosteitis, or pano or eo-pan for short. It usually starts around six to ten months of age and shifts from leg to leg. Panosteitis usually causes no permanent damage, but requires pain medication. If your dog has this condition and develops an abnormal gait to compensate for the sore leg s , rehabilitation exercises may be required. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and German Shepherd Dogs are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital. Heart Disease German Shepherd Dogs are prone to multiple types of heart disease , which can occur both early and later in life. Veterinary dental care and weight control also go a long way in preventing heart disease. Unfortunately, German Shepherd Dogs can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs for concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Shepherds. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. In affected breeds, inflammatory cells infiltrate the cornea the clear part of the eye , which then darkens with exposure to ultraviolet light, and may lead to complete blindness. Doggie sunglasses are also an option to help reduce sun exposure. Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your GSD will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific cancers your pet may encounter. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, causes a wobbly, drunken gait in affected pets. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. When pinched, the nerves do not send signals to the brain as they should causing the pet to be unable to feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice with wobbler disease are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. It affects GSDs more frequently than other breeds. If your dog has this disease, he will become increasingly weak and disabled in the hind legs, eventually suffering from paralysis in his hindquarters, which also leads to incontinence. Rehabilitation, exercise, acupuncture , and dietary supplements can be helpful, but there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. A genetic test is available to determine whether your dog is at risk for this heritable disease. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but German Shepherds have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Anal Gland Problems German Shepherds are prone to a painful, longterm condition in which the area around the anus becomes inflamed or develops sores. Signs include bleeding, constipation, licking of the area, smelly discharge around the rectum, and straining or apparent pain when defecating. This condition can be difficult to treat and requires lifelong medications, prescription food, and sometimes even surgery. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Taking Care of Your German Shepherd Dog at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your GSD live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. German Shepherd Dogs generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She has a high prey drive, so she needs to be leash walked and a fenced yard is a must. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your German Shepherd Dog needs help. Small Pets How to take care of a German shepherd dog? German shepherd is an extremely affectionate and devoted breed that requires its master to reciprocate all the love and care. All German shepherd dog owners and those who are contemplating to adopt one must be mindful of a few tips that will help in a healthy and wholesome lifestyle for the pet dog. Therefore it is always a good idea to find out about the credentials of the breeder. Train your GSD: Train your four legged pal so that it will listen to your instructions and accept you willingly as the pack leader. Obedience training is more effective when the dog is still very young. Exercise is crucial to the existence of a German shepherd: It is advisable to make the dog exercise for at least a total of 45 minutes each day. This muscular breed was traditionally bred as a work dog and if left idle will often find a negative channel to expel all the pent-up energy. Therefore one must take the dog for a walk a couple of times daily, along with other exercise. But it is very important to note that over exercising a puppy will lead to it developing in an improper way. Hence do not over do the physical activity regime when a dog is young. GSD is a large breed that requires a big expanse to run around and gallivant. Pooch parents can visit dog friendly parks where the canine is entitled to open spaces and also gets a chance to befriend other dogs that are present. What to feed a German shepherd and how much? It is advisable to feed the dog twice a day. An adult will weigh between 60 to 90 pounds. Stay Amazed!! The early change over to adult food in GSDs is done to avoid rapid abnormal growth in large breeds. As per the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control, commercial food for this breed must contain 18 percent protein and 5 percent fat for adults and 22 percent protein along with 8 percent fat for puppies and lactating bitches. The first ingredient of the dog food must be protein such as poultry, fish or any other form of whole meat. Care must be taken that the dog food is free of corn as a source of protein as it is not easily digestible. Long haired German shepherds need to cool down: India is a tropical country. Whether short or long haired, German shepherds in general are fond of drinking water, thus a bowl full of clean drinking water must be accessible to the pooch at all times. Grooming and regular visits to the vet: Bathe your furry buddy once a month. The shepherd can be taken to a grooming parlor or given a bath at home. This way the doctor is able to detect ear infections that your beloved may be suffering from. Arm Your Dogs before the Spring! Regular visits to the animal doc will ensure your four legged family member gets all the vaccinations timely. Also appropriate de-worming medications will be provided to the dog to be consumed on a monthly basis. This will avert your furry pal from getting worms. In case the dog is tested positive for worms, then a suitable medication will be administered for effective treatment. About Petsworld Team The blog editor of Pets World is a pet aficionado and fervently follows her pet-obsession. A pet parent to animals big and small for the past two decades. The sum of all experiences gathered is an amalgamation of useful knowledge and research. More like this.

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. You might be able to find a dog at a local shelter near you, but you could always contact Labrador Retriever breeders if you want a puppy of your own. The popularity of Labrador Retriever puppies has caused many people to unethically breed the dog for their own financial gain, resulting in sickly and aggressive dogs. By carefully considering your Labrador Retriever breeder, you can get a wonderful puppy that is healthy, happy, and well acclimated. Below are five Labrador Retriever breeders in New Jersey. Every one of these breeders are certified and approved by various Labrador Retriever clubs for ethical breeding standards. You can trust any one of these breeders to love your puppy just as much as you will. By raising their Labrador Retrievers within the home of a large family, all of the McClan Labradors are adaptable, friendly, and great for all families. McClan Labradors specializes in all Labrador Retriever coats, including yellow, black, and chocolate. All Labrador Retrievers bred by StormyC Labradors are raised within the home for friendliness and compatibility. They are also bred to be work and show dogs. No matter what the purpose of your Labrador Retriever is, StormyC Labradors likely has a dog for you. This breeder sells all Labradors Retriever coats, including yellow, chocolate, and black. As a result, Weymouth Labradors only breeds the official colors, including chocolate, yellow, and black. Weymouth Labradors is a great breeder if you are looking for breeders that are careful to not over-breed their dogs. As a small hobby kennel, Weymouth Labradors only has litters occasionally, ensuring the health and happiness of all their puppies. Paradigm Labradors raises their dogs to be obedient, agile, and great within all households. So, you can relax and unwind with one of these labs or show them off at a dog show. You can learn all about the Paradigm Labradors dogs on their site, which introduces you to all their boys, girls, youngsters, retirees, and litters. Unlike many other lab breeders, Shadowbrook Labradors primarily only focuses on black labs, but they occasionally breed chocolate and yellow labs too. No matter what coat style the lab puppy belongs to, all the dogs are bred for superior health and personality. Shadowbrook Labradors are especially great for showing and training purposes. Because they are bred and raised on a farm, they also make phenomenal family companions due to their flexibility and gentle nature. Related Read:. These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for almost forty years. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we deliver our world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily deliver our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Edison. For details, call Woody or Judi at .Labrador Retriever Puppies and Children In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Dogs help children to be more cooperative and sharing. For children, a close relationship with a dog is a proven benefit in study after study. For instance, in research with preschool children, psychologists at Oregon State University found that teaching children to care for a puppy enhanced their social skills. Sue Doescher, a psychologist involved in the study. And that transfers to how other kids feel. Be sure to read the rest of her article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client!

But boxers are not for everyone. They require a lot of exercise and do not do well when left alone most of the day, Wendy Morawski, a boxer breeder for 33 years, said in an interview. The boxer breed is also known for hereditary disorders, such as cancer and dilated cardiomyopathy, that can be passed to their progeny. As with any breed, the boxer's temperament can vary from dog to dog. Boxer aficionados have identified a few things to look for in selecting the right boxer for your family. Step 1 Take a trip to the library and read all you can about boxers. Visit your favorite social media websites and look for groups dedicated to the boxer dog. Engage in discussion and learn what other boxer owners feed, how they train, and what sex or color they prefer. Educate yourself about what you're getting into, then decide if the boxer is still your breed of choice. Step 2 Look for a responsible breeder who does health tests on the boxer parents before breeding and who has a history of long-lived boxers, Morawski suggests. Boxer breeders sell puppies as companion animals not intended for show for various reasons, such as markings or conformation. Step 3 Visit the breeder's home to ensure that the pups are raised in clean conditions. Expect the "third degree" when being interviewed as a prospective boxer parent, writes author and breeder Stephanie Abraham in her book "The Boxer. Step 4 Insist that the puppy have veterinary clearance as to its health, Morawski advises. A good breeder will have excellent knowledge of the pups offered for sale and will be honest about the litter's pedigree. Step 5 Select a lively, alert puppy who happily greets you and your family; however, if one puppy hangs back, don't dismiss it as not being well-adjusted. Dogs have a pecking order within the litter, and he may not be outgoing until he leaves the pack and gets adjusted to his new home. Step 6 Choose the gender and color you prefer, if you have a choice. Quality breeders usually take deposits or reservations on certain dogs, so you may have only one or two puppies to choose from. A boxer's coat is either fawn, brindle or white. White boxers are not allowed to be shown. Don't buy into the myth that white boxers are rare and that they are all deaf, Morawski says. Step 7 Consider rescuing a boxer dog. These can be fabulous dogs that are given up by their owners for various reasons, including divorce, a move, or never having trained the boxer to control behavioral issues such as fence-jumping or soiling in the house. Morawski, who has worked with numerous rescue organizations, says she has found rescued boxers to be responsive to training and affection. Buying A Boxer Puppy? Finding Your Puppy -- Buying From the Breeder The conscientious breeder plans a breeding to reproduce the best characteristics of an outstanding sire or dam. His guide is the official AKC Standard of the breedthe written "blueprint" that helps keep the breed uniform for generations to come. You can find the breed standard, revised in , at the American Boxer Club website: www. The more common disappointments for pet purchasers come from commercial sources--especially pet shops that often buy puppies from the infamous "puppy mills" that take little notice of the quality or health they are producing. The pet store or dog broker will sell you a puppy with a breeder's name attached to the paperwork--but this puppy may easily have been born in a puppy mill. The reputable breeder, on the other hand, will not only be able to demonstrate the pedigree and registration papers, but will also show you either the sire or dam themselves, or pictures of the parent who may be owned elsewhere. Though the mere presence of "papers" does not guarantee good health, conformation, or temperament, you will most often find these attributes in the puppy who has been raised with loving care in the home or kennel of a conscientious hobby breeder. The serious breeder often strives to produce a potential "champion. Sometimes the distribution of white markings alone may make the difference between the so-called "pet" and show-potential puppy. The pet puppy will have benefited from the same proven bloodlines, nutrition, and medical care as its "champion" littermate. His breeder will have health tested the parents and done the best he can to insure good temperament, soundness, and longevity. Here is your best buy. Boxer magazines publish ads from breeders. The American Boxer Club web site www. Usually any time after weeks. Many states have regulations regarding minimum age. However, your individual circumstances must be considered. Do you have the time to spend with a very young puppy? Will someone be home to housebreak him? Would an exuberant 6-month old puppy overwhelm a tiny child? Or would he be better matched with a 6-year-old youngster? Remember too that the puppy under 3 months needs lots of time to rest. Don't forget that adult dogs, already trained, also make ideal pets. While much can be told at six to eight weeks about the puppy's eventual looks, if you are seeking a show prospect you might be better off waiting until the pup is six to eight months of age. At that time, be prepared to pay a higher price for all the additional time and effort that the breeder has spent raising the show potential Boxer. Male or Female? This choice is a matter of personal preference. Both males and females make admirable pets. Breeding is a serious committment of time, energy, and money, and not to be taken lightly. If breeding is not anticipated, it may be appropriate to spay or neuter your dog. This procedure is best done as your Boxer approaches adolescence. Please be aware that these surgeries should be discussed with your veterinarian as to safety of anesthesia and any long term effects other than sterilization. Spayed and neutered animals are not eligible to compete in the conformation ring but may be shown in performance events. Check this list! Tails should have been docked within a few days of birth. Optional removal of front dewclaws fifth toes is done at the same time. The Boxer has no rear dewclaws. Ear cropping is customary and appropriate but not required--it is a matter of personal preference. Uncropped ears are permitted under the breed standard. If cropped, this procedure is done under general anesthesia, usually between six and nine weeks of age. If the puppy is taken before cropping, the breeder usually makes arrangements. The breeder also advises regarding aftercare and taping if ears are not already standing. Sometimes this is a lengthy process. In the male, both testicles should be descended into the scrotum. They should be in place by two to three months of age. A dog with undescended testicles may still make a fine pet, though he would be ineligible to compete in the conformation show ring. Consult your veterinarian for advice. Avoid the unusually quiet, inactive puppy, or the one that might shy away from you. This might mean a fault in temperament or even ill health. Papers the Seller Should Furnish: a. A three or four generation pedigree signed by the seller. There should be no extra charge for this. The pedigree preferably gives the color of the sire and dam, and the AKC registration numbers of each. The registration from the AKC, which is an official document identifying your puppy's individual registration number, sex, birth date, sire and dam, and name of the breeder s. There are two ways to register puppies for the first time: 1 Limited Registration If the puppy is not to be bred, and is being purchased only as a companion pet, the breeder may check off the Limited Registration option. This does register the puppy with the AKC. However, it does not allow any registration of offspring from the mature dog. The breeder and only the breeder can cancel the limited registration should the puppy at maturity be considered of breeding quality. Records the Breeder Should Furnish: a. Date and type of vaccines given. Depending on the type of vaccination program started, your veterinarian will advise you on following through. Vaccination protocols are evolving even among the medical professionals. Date and agent used for worming, if done. Do not worm your puppy without consulting your veterinarian. Avoid store-bought preparations which can be dangerous. Diet your puppy has been receiving. It is well to maintain the regimen begun by the breeder, especially while the puppy is adjusting to his new home. If changes are to be made. When he is an adult it will be wise to maintain your Boxer on two smaller meals a day. Maya 4. Boxers Prefer to Be Warm Most boxers are not fond of cold weather. Yes, they admire a perfect warm place during cooler days and cold nights. Regardless of the weather, boxers prefer warm conditions. So, you can keep your boxers at home or within its den at night. Also, you must keep your eyes on your boxer puppy as they are not fond of the cold atmosphere. Sudden temperature drop may not be a perfect condition for them to dwell. A warm and hygienic place is just a requirement for him. So, you must be careful of its accommodation. Possible Health Issues You must focus on some common health issues of your boxers. Yes, they are sensitive to certain things. Here are common health issues you boxer may face: Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a disease that affects the nervous system and lower spine of the boxers. It can cause some negative impacts as partial or full paralysis of the lower limbs. When you notice any kind of clumsiness in the hind legs, consult with the best veterinarian in your area. Boxer Cardiomyopathy: It generally happens when a boxer reaches at his two. This is a heart disorder found in boxers below 2 years of age. It has higher risks of sudden heart failure. So, you must take the necessary precautions. Bloat: The detrimental issue of boxers leads to this disease. You should treat your dog carefully and take care of his food, digestion, and passage of stool. Hip Dysplasia: In this case, the hip joint is continuing to stay fit to the hip socket. Running and jumping activities may get a hamper during this stage. We suggest you treat your dog well during such conditions and take necessary advice from the veterinarian. Seizures: These are the most frightening medical conditions to see among boxer breeds. This is an unfortunate reality for a boxer owner too. Potential seizures may damage the brain and affect other nervous systems. So, be careful during such periods and prefer immediate treatment. There is no grouping of age that the puppies of boxers fall in love with. Especially, children find him adorable and the statement is just the same for them too. In the early phases, you must show how much you are fond of him. The nature of all boxers is to cuddle with their masters and need a full arm grasps upon the couch. They just love your companionship and you must provide that all the time. Vigilant watchdogs are the best roles they can play. Barking is their tendency to show. You must provide them with plenty of chew toys. What are they going to do with them? Well, chewing is an old habit of all dogs and this is the most common habit of boxer puppies too. So, it is a better choice to provide them with multiple chewing options so that they will keep your in-house matters safe and sound. The casual behavior of your boxer puppy should not surprise you as it is their common tendency. Assess Temperament Boxers are highly energetic, intelligent, playful dogs. They can keep you too busy. Their temperament shows their breeding. Your puppy can be the loyal one and perfect option as a guard dog for your family. Double Check Health All health conditions mentioned above must be checked thoroughly. Before Adopting Boxer Puppies, you must be aware of their health-related facts. So, checking on their health status gives you the upper hand. Consider Whether Gender Matters This is a personal choice for all owners and dog lovers out there. You can keep it as per your preference. Male or female, both are productive and attractive in their ways. So, it is your choice with whom you should go. So, when you prefer the best one as per your reference, you must go with the right plot. Coat color is important but keep an open mind while selecting a boxer puppy. Attributes like temperament, health, character are more valuable things to consider than the coat color. Can you go narrow or go deep down? Well, that depends on your current situation. This is the best tip to follow when you Adopt A Boxer Dog. The Bottom Line If you have the luxury to Adopt Boxer Puppies, then you can opt for a cute dog as they are adorable and verify all types of paperwork associated with it. The boxer breed is lovely and keeps a perfect connection with other dogs. So, this is your chance to be a glamorous owner of a Boxer Dogs for Sale in Bangalore , puppy. However, before you concern yourself with raising a Boxer, you first need to focus all of your energy on educating yourself about the breed, so you will be able to pick out the best Boxer pup that is healthy and has been well bred. How do you discover what Boxer puppies have been well bred? For starters, you find a reputable breeder and compare the liter they are selling with the Boxer breed standard. For instance, Boxers are recognized for their strong builds. They have chiseled heads that feature a small arched skull which should not appear round. No wrinkles or creases are present on the head, except when the Boxer is alert. Boxer puppies should have square jaws. The lower jaw is undershot and curves a little upwards. The strong jaws of the Boxer are home to a perfect set of white teeth that form a full scissor bite that is extremely powerful. Their muzzles are short, and are one of their most distinctive features. The nose has wide nostrils and is black. The ears of Boxers are usually cropped, which enhances their hearing, one of their more developed senses. Their ears are thin and rest on the highest point of the skull. They are set wide a part. If the ears are not cropped, they will fall forward and lay flat and close to the cheek. Boxer puppies have adorable dark brown eyes that are proportioned to their head, and are surrounded by dark rims. They are deeply set and look directly forward. They eyes convey a soulful and intelligent expression. A Boxer has a muscular body that is equipped with a deep chest, well arched ribs, well defined withers, and short loins. The back extends to the tail which is usually docked. If the tail of a Boxer is docked it is carried high and upwards. If it is not docked, the tail is carried high and free. Boxer puppies come in two different coat colors: Fawn or Brindle. If the Boxer has fawn coloring their coat can be any shade of dark brown-red to light fawn. If the coat is brindle, the Boxer will have a fawn ground color, as well as have black stripes that run parallel to their ribs throughout the body. The stripes in brindle coats contrast well with the fawn color of the coat. Note: it is also permissible for Boxers to have white markings in their coat, but the white should not cover more than a third of the fawn coloring. Finally, regardless of the color, the coat itself should be short, shiny, smooth, and close to the body. The last part of Boxer puppies you will need to inspect is their legs and feet. The front legs of a boxer are straight, strong boned, and slightly slanted. Their hindquarters appear straight from behind but have good angulations. You will notice that the front feet of the boxer are small and not unlike a cat, while the back feet are touch longer than the front. All four paws have strong, hard pads. There is plenty for you take into account when selecting from Boxer puppies. Therefore, make sure you talk to the breeder, and seek the advice of other owners who are familiar with breed. The more you know, and the more experience you have with real Boxers, the better your chances of selecting a healthy and well bred dog. Related Posts. Why only through a reputable breeder? All dogs have a history of carrying certain genetic defects or disease common to their breed and Boxers are no exception to the rule. Some of the more common problems inherent in the boxer breed are Cardiomyopathy, Aortic Stenosis, Bloat, Cancer, Canine Hip Dysplasia and Histiocytic ulcerative Colitis inflammation of the colon. He will choose to breed only dogs from good bloodlines that have a healthy pedigree, free from these common problems, therefore greatly increasing the chances of producing a healthy dog. Stay away from pet stores! Some people are tempted to buy a puppy from a pet store. I caution you to stay away from these places as they purchase their dogs from puppy mills. These breeders have absolutely no interest in the boxer breed. They could care less about there bloodline or their health for that matter and are only in the business to make a lot of money. That little boxer puppy in the pet store window may pull at your heart strings, but the chances of these dogs being diagnosed in the future with one of the above mentioned defects or diseases is greatly increased when they are breed by one of these low life breeders. When you meet with the breeder there are a few things you should look for in helping you choose a puppy. The majority of boxers sold in the U. There are certain characteristics in a puppy that you need to look for to increase your chances of bringing home a boxer pup that will exhibit good behavior, have a great temperament, and be a great companion for you and your family. When you meet with the puppies for the first time look for one that is happy to see you and is not afraid to come to you. Avoid any pups that shy away from you or keep their distance. A puppy that is overly aggressive to its siblings will probably be a bit more difficult to train so you would want to rule these pups out also. This should narrow things down considerably. Now with the remaining group you want to hold them one by one in your hands. Look for the puppies that like being held by you and appear to be very calm in your hands. These puppies would most likely be your best choice. After all, the breeder has already spent 10 to 12 weeks with the puppies and could be very helpful in helping you make your final decision. When you think you have your winner just take a few minutes to examine the puppy. You want a pup that has a nice shiny coat as well as clear eyes no discharge or cloudiness and is free from fleas or ticks. Boxer color choices Boxer dogs basically come in 3 different types of coats; Fawn, which is tan to dark brown with white markings on the legs, face, chest and underside and they may have black markings on the face that looks similar to a mask. Brindle, which is similar to fawn with the addition of a black coat over the base tan or brown that, gives the boxer the appearance of being striped. White, or may be white with some small patches of fawn or brindle called checked. The reason the tail is docked is to prevent injury of the tail when they mature. Another common procedure performed on boxers is cropping of the ears. I personally prefer the un-cropped look and most breeders will give you the option of having this done. Male or Female? No offense to my female readers, but most of the experts believe that the male boxer makes for the more affectionate in the breed. This makes a lot of sense when you think of all the hormonal changes a female dog can go through. Another thing to keep in mind is if you are introducing your boxer into a home with another dog. Your dogs are more likely to get along if they are of the opposite sex. Just go with what you prefer. My boxer, Tori was a neutered female and lived in our home with another female and she was just as sweet as could be.

This is perhaps the reason why many dog lovers want to buy one nowadays. True, different dog breeds have different needs, but they all have something in common. After all, different breeds tend to have unique personalities. Short-haired shepherd breeds are no exception. They are loyal and obedient Short-haired shepherd breeds are extremely loyal to their owners. But as usual, too much is bad. They are cautious and loving Short-haired German shepherds also tend to be cautious around strangers. And you can expect that your relationship will last forever. After all, the hard-hearted personality of short-haired German shepherds makes it impossible for them to get used to many people at once. Thus, sufficient knowledge about them is necessary in order to avoid disappointment later on. Frequent vacations, trips, and overtime are the perfect ingredients for disaster when it comes to short-haired German shepherds. You only see them as watchdogs It goes without saying that short-haired German shepherds need freedom, just like how other dogs do. So keeping them restrained with chains for a long time will only lead to problems. Paying no attention to their behavior can only spell disaster, so watch out for sudden changes. The best thing about dogs is that you can take advantage of these to suit your needs. Here are some tips on how to do so. Teach them new skills regularly While dogs are known for being fast learners, short-haired German shepherds are beyond that. When buying… Due to the popularity of such breeds, there are many shams selling short-haired shepherd breeds. So, what you need to do is limit yourself to respected breeders. To avoid health issues , you might have to spend more on your initial purchase. They can even shed more than their long-haired counterpart. Purchase chew toys, the durable ones With proper care, short-haired German shepherd puppies can grow with tenacious jaws. Surely no one wants to fix damages in their yards or home, so buy some chew toys. Secure a regular check-up with the vet As previously said, the short-haired shepherd breeds tend to endure the toughest struggles. Even when they appear healthy, they might not be. So send them to the vet once in a while. Ensure a healthy diet If you think their shedding, chewing, and health issues are tiresome to deal with regularly, you can minimize it through their diet. Feed them fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, berries, while providing them protein with meat. If properly fed, they can shed less and experience fewer health issues. Conclusion Short-haired German shepherds are strong, flexible, reliable, and loving dogs. If this is the kind of dog that appeals to your sensibilities, then they might be the perfect fit for you. When properly taken care of, they can be a new addition to your family. And that includes spending money on them along the way. 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. Join and learn directly from Nadelhaus founder Traci Needles, who has over 25 years of experience breeding and training German Shepherds. Over 50 videos on the following topics covering German Shepherd puppies, housebreaking, crate training, obedience, feeding, grooming, wellness, and much more. New videos to be added every month. Our customers come from all over including Sacramento, the Central Valley, the Bay Area, Southern California, and even from out of state. Not only do we breed German Shepherd puppies, we offer puppy and dog training , dog boarding , and can import fully-trained German Shepherds. What makes Nadelhaus German Shepherds different from other dog breeders? This is the breed club founded in by Max von Stephanitz, who set the standards of the German Shepherd dog breed. The quality of dogs bred to the rules of the SV is second to none. A West German dog is regulated for its sound mind and body. We focus on breeding our dogs for structure, movement, workability, trainability, hips, elbows, pigment, and coat. Our goal is to to produce the best quality German Shepherd again and again, aiming to better the breed every time we breed our dogs. What is the price to buy a Nadelhaus German Shepherd puppy? Our Puppy Application page will provide you with more information on the application, deposit, and matching process. Once you have read through these steps, you can click through to the application form and view the prices for both Nadelhaus German Shepherd puppies as well as import German Shepherd puppies. If I buy a German Shepherd puppy, can you ship it to me? If you are not able to pick your puppy up from our facility in Northern California, we can ship a puppy to you. Shipping rates vary by location and include a health certificate vet visit, transportation costs, and an airline approved crate. Contact us for shipping details. Do you sell long-haired German Shepherd puppies? Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds puppies all year round and while the majority of puppies we sell are short coat aka short hair , we do have occasionally have long coat long hair puppies. Learn more about long-haired German Shepherds. Can I have a German Shepherd puppy or dog imported from Europe? Puppies bred at Nadelhaus sell quick and even with a deposit, there is generally a wait list for our puppies. If you are interested in skipping the wait list, consider having a puppy imported from Germany. Importing a German Shepherd puppy is a special opportunity to acquire a very beautiful dog with special bloodlines. Both the female mother and male stud are often top V and VA dogs in Germany and come from very popular and highly sought after bloodlines. If you are interested in importing a puppy, simply fill out the same puppy application and click the checkbox that you would like to import a puppy. Will my German Shepherd puppy have its shots and vaccines? All of our puppies receive their vaccinations and are de-wormed to date. They are vet checked at six weeks old. Visit akcreunite. Owners must complete their portion of the paperwork and mail in the registration to the AKC along with the proper fee. We have some puppies born to German imports, so we must mail the paperwork to owners post-purchase. How much should I feed my 8 week old German Shepherd puppy? Our article covers care from the moment you pick up your puppy at the Nadelhaus kennels, to feeding, common issues, introduction to other dogs in the home and more. Our trained driver can transport your German Shepherd to our kennels for puppy purchases, dog training or dog boarding. Trust that your German Shepherd will be transported with care: our driver is knowledgeable about the breed, trained in dog handling and transport, and our transporting service is bonded and insured. This service is exclusive to Nadelhaus purchased German Shepherds. We do not transport dogs that were not purchased or imported through Nadelhaus. Pricing below are estimates only. Our transportation services are generally limited to Northern California, but we encourage you to contact us with any inquiries for your location or for a price quote. Lifespan Sociability Since the German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds in the United States, there are plenty of reputable breeders, and finding a puppy is usually not a problem. That said, they can vary fairly widely in price, as some are bred purely for the pet trade, while others are bred as working dogs and will cost a fair bit more. While the German Shepherd is one of the most recognizable breeds in the world, they are actually a fairly recent breed. German Shepherds as we know them today were first bred in the late s by Max von Stephanitz, with a dog by the name of Horand becoming the first officially registered German Shepherd. They have American Kennel Club recognition. They go by several names. During World War I and II, both Americans and Europeans sought to get rid of the German part of the name due to its association, and the dog thus became known as the Alsatian in most of Europe. Image Credit: Pixabay 4. They are highly intelligent. German Shepherds are widely considered among the most intelligent dogs on the planet. They are immensely popular. According to the AKC, since , German Shepherds have consistently ranked second in the United States for the most popular dog breed, with only the family-favorite Labrador Retriever above them. They served in both World Wars. During World War I, German Shepherds were used by both the Germans and Allied forces for carrying messages and distributing food and as rescue dogs and as personal guards. After the war, soldiers were impressed by the capabilities of the breed. They are Hollywood stars. German Shepherds have long had starring roles in many Hollywood movies, with Rin Tin Tin being the most well-known, with dozens of movies throughout the early s. They were one of the first seeing-eye dogs in the U. Dogs are commonly used as an aid for people with visual impairment or complete blindness. Although this role is now often associated with Labradors or Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds were among the first. There are few dogs more adorable than German Shepherd puppies, and there is no shortage of homes for them. They come in eleven recognized colors. The classic black and tan German Shepherd is the color most associated with the breed, but these dogs actually come in 11 different colors. Their loyalty, intelligence, and versatility are almost unmatched by any other breed, evidenced by their use in so many ways. The fur sometimes flies among German shepherd fanciers regarding coat lengths. What the hairball, right? The overwhelming majority of German shepherds have moderately short to medium-length hair, as dictated by the breed standard. The term is primarily used to distinguish them from long-haired GSDs. Some long-haired individuals lack an undercoat, and they sometimes cost more due to their rarity. However, they are essentially the same pooch otherwise. Long-haired shepherds also occur, but both the AKC breed standard and UKC standard call for one coat length as we mentioned: medium. Excessively long or short, close-cropped coats are deemed faults. A standard German shepherd has a thick, medium-length coat that may appear slightly longer around the neck and rear legs. This is a point of contention in many breeds with differing looks, including Chihuahuas who can be short or long coated and Labs, who come in three colors. Many owners insist there are behavioral differences between types, while others disagree. Personality Differences Generally speaking, appearance has little weight on personality. A German shepherd is a German shepherd. They are large, athletic dogs who love human interaction and thrive when faced with challenges. Dogs from working lines are usually more active with a strong drive compared to show stock. Health Differences As with personality, there are few health differences noted between the short-coated and long-coated shepherds. Any potential health differences between the two can likely be attributed to the coat length. For example, the long-coated variety may be at greater risk of developing hot spots in wet weather. Also, and somewhat counterintuitively, long-coated shepherds are sometimes more susceptible to hypothermia, since they sometimes lack an insulating undercoat. All dedicated GSD breeders as well as those working with any other breed should screen their breeding stock for common health concerns of the breed. Certain colors can lead to issues, however. For example, pale, blue, and liver colors are considered faults, and white is a disqualifying color. On the other hand, long-haired German shepherds do not meet the breed standard since a long coat is considered a fault. These dogs cannot compete in a show ring. No — short-haired GSDs are not rare. In fact, short-coated German shepherds are more common than those with long coats. Additionally, since long-coated GSDs are seen as going against the breed standard, most breeders avoid producing them, or they choose to sell them on a pet-only contract. The point behind this is line of thinking is that every generation of puppy should strive to reach the breed standard. But on the other hand, because of the rarity of the long-coat gene, some breeders deliberately produce them and charge a premium for these long-haired doggos. Also, note that those who opt to breed long-coated shepherds may not always have the same goals as traditional GSD breeders. Now, while the standard calls for a double coat, the undercoat is sometimes lacking in long-haired GSDs. On the surface, this may not appear to be a big deal, but in colder climates, an undercoat is vital in insulating your dog from the elements, so these long-haired pups may actually have a tougher time staying warm. Because the vast majority of short-haired shepherds have an undercoat, they shed more than longer-coated pups who lack one. They also require more brushing around shedding season to remove any loose undercoat. The same is true of long-haired GSDs with an undercoat. Image from Pinterest. The German shepherd dog has a dense coat that sheds regularly. Weekly brushing is recommended to maintain his handsome looks and cut down on tumbleweeds around the house. Brushing should increase during heavy shedding periods, such as when seasons change. Regular tooth brushing and ear cleaning are also musts to keep him in tip-top shape, as is a good flea prevention program. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.