chicago labrador and labradoodle puppies

chicago labrador and labradoodle puppies

In , Dawson Gurley bought his first puppy - an adorable, fluffly, goofy white Labrador. He quickly realized just one dog wasn't enough. As any dog owner would do, he took pictures and videos of his dogs all the time. People loved these dogs so much that they got their very own channel called Life with Labradors. Everyone fell in love with their personalities as the pups were filmed swimming, doing tricks, reviewing food, and even having their own puppies! We have worked with just about every breed out there from Labradors to Rescues in order to spread positivity across the internet. Constantly working with dogs and being lifelong owners ourselves, we quickly gained expertise at which products both dog and owner love the most. Fat Puppy Store is created to share these with you! Locally owned in Phoenix Arizona, we strive to provide our customers with the best possible products that we know you, your dog, and your wallet will love. As a small business, we are able to personally answer all your inquiries quickly! We are dedicated to making sure you receive the best service possible! For more information, please contact us! I breed purebred labrador retrievers. At my kennel my dogs range from four months to three years old, and a lot of them are still puppies or young dogs. In raising puppies, they become like your children. They think of you as mom, and it creates this bond that is unlike anything else. The thing about labs is that they will do anything to be by your side. When I'm not cooking up a storm, I spend most of my time at the kennel with these dogs, so I wanted to share some of it with you guys. So his eyes are blue now but when he matures they will turn to an amber colour similar to Dakota's eyes. What to expect when you get a labrador puppy You can see two of my older dogs in this video. Notice the difference in energy between them and the puppies? As puppies, they eat, sleep, play and repeat. All day long. And the playing takes up a large portion of that. So be prepared for going for long walks with them every few hours, even every hour at first. And you'll be glad you did, because the more they run around, the more they'll sleep. Once labs hit about two years old, they become fully mature and they stop growing. At which point their energy level goes down, and they become a bit more calm and relaxed, without the constant need to run around and play. On the other hand, labradors are called retrievers for a reason, and they have been hunting dogs and working dogs for many generations. Even when fully mature, they'd literally be physically capable of running around all day long if they had reason to. One of my black female labs whose three, will never stop if you throw her a ball or a stick. But the rest of the time she can be pretty relaxed. This is all common knowledge if you're a labrador owner. But for those of you who don't have labradors, this should give you a sense of what to prepare for if you're thinking about adopting a labrador puppy. It's very rewarding raising labrador puppies. And at the same time it's good to be mentally prepared and know what you're getting yourself into. It was another beautiful day in the country, ending with this stunning sunset I'll continue to post about my labs to give you guys a sense of what to expect when getting a labrador puppy, and I'll cover some other topics such as potty training, general training and tricks, and what to feed them. And if you guys have any questions, feel free to let me know in the comments. Exciting news! And two new additions to the family who will be coming home in less than two weeks. Much love, Natasha All photos and video are mine and original. Shot on iPhone 7 Plus with basic processing done on photoshop. For information about the dogs I breed visit my website torontolabradorpuppies. And thank you for all your support! Now taking deposits for Puppies. Contact us to learn more, meet our parents, and reserve your puppy! Your Labrador Breeder in Arizona with a focus on Service Service Our puppy program provides a great foundation to puppies destined for service work. Many of our puppies have gone on to become excellent service dogs. We treat all of our puppies as though they are training for therapy work. This makes a great puppy for any use! I would love to introduce you to my dogs and our special puppy program! Please contact me for more information. Even if your family does not have a special need for Therapy or Service work, the preparation we provide all of our puppies makes for an excellent family pet. Working We have prepared many puppies that went on to work-life. Not every puppy succeeds at work-life training, but our puppies are given the best chance starting life in our Puppy Program. Service Our puppy program provides a great foundation to puppies destined for service work. Family Dog Our puppies make excellent family dogs. Working We have prepared many puppies for work-life. Our puppies are well prepared for their future careers. Labs are intelligent dogs and they love to have a purpose. This makes them ideal for many types of work. Thank you for trusting me and for the kind words… What an amazing experience! Sandy has developed a wonderful program that allowed our family to bond with and work with our puppy prior to bringing him home. The education and training we received has been invaluable. She genuinely cares about her pups and the product is well behaved, well adjusted, healthy and happy puppies… Our Nash is gorgeous, smart, and healthy. We cannot give a higher praise to Sandy and her entire process of placing these beautiful pups. My Lab Puppies is a breeder we recommend to all our family and friends. We have 2, Momo is a male we brought home in February .He is now 14 months old. They are now inseparable. Extremely intelligent, lovable, trainable, and kind. Not to mention beautiful. Even my old rescue terrier loves them…Sandy is a pro. No bones about it. Jane Glenn Outstanding experience! My wife researched many dog breeders before deciding this was the breeder of choice. He is turning out to be such a smart and sweet boy—he wins friends every where he goes. Sandy has been great with support and training help. You can tell she cares about breeding for temperament and with the temperament of the parents both therapy pets working with special needs children , what a great guy he is turning out to be! Wendy Holland.

Though they may get into trouble at times, Pugs tend to be good-natured dogs. Pugs are usually not aggressive dogs. However, if your Pug is not properly socialized and trained, they can easily develop aggressive tendencies such as nipping, barking or growling due to their headstrong and stubborn temperaments. According to Hills Pet , Pugs are cheerful, laid back dogs and we tend agree with them. But despite their playful attitude, they can be serious dogs. My pug sun bathes outside for hours every day. Pug owner As easy-going as these dogs are, expect them to lounge around and nap for many hours throughout the day. In fact, Pugs are infamously known for their mischievous side. In addition, Pugs can be a little headstrong at times with the occasional stubborn streak. If you have already have a dog, cat or other animal, we have good news for you! Pugs get along great with other dogs. These dogs are all about devotion to the pack. However, there is a caveat. Without proper socialization, Pugs may be aggressive towards the unfamiliar. My pug hates other dogs but tolerates and protects her little Siberian Husky sister only. This may mean meeting on neutral grounds first, such as a dog park or even in the front yard. One thing to keep in mind is that you should never introduce the puppy to your dog while holding the pup in your arms. This can make them feel vulnerable. Instead, let them do their thing, such as sniffing, licking or whatever they decide to do to get to know each other. Can Pugs be Aggressive Towards Humans? Like with other animals, Pugs are not usually aggressive towards other people, including seniors and kids. However, some Pugs do show aggression towards kids by nipping their feet, lunging towards them or just barking at them. Even so, these behaviors are rarely malicious. But it really depends on how they were raised and socialized as a puppy. Planes flying overhead. Neighbors taking out the trash. As a result, there can be a lot of scary things in this world, at least to them. Although this may sound silly, it happens more often than you think. Ever hear of the small dog syndrome? Everyone else is a stranger and potentially a threat. Otis our pug got used to the baby and is now super protective. The possessive nature is not unique to Pugs. Many dogs of all kinds can develop this type of behavior. However, there are many other potential reasons why your dog may be acting out. Pugs are no exception. These signs can be snapping, growling or outright biting. Whether from a medical condition or not, pain can also elicit this type of unnatural behavior from your Pug. Many times the pain comes from injuries while playing too hard, as Pugs tend to do. Other times, pain or discomfort can come from tumors, arthritis, fractures or whatever internal injuries. Never give your Pug medication without the consent of your vet. A mistake most owners make is trying to take matters into their own hands. Please, leave it to the professionals. Not only can it happen with other dogs, but also with humans. Dogs that suffer from this internal desire to become the alpha of the pack can show aggression in the form of growling, biting, snapping and lunging. Of course, not all Pugs even want to be the alpha of the pack. In my 11 years of raising my pug with my other dogs, I have never had this problem with my pug. For example, this Pug owner describes her dominant Pug, saying: My pug thinks she is the alpha. She pulls pillows off the couch and uses them as her toys. She constantly stands at my top of the couch and looks out the window and barks. An owner told me that her female dog will hump her leg and toys all the time. This is a clear sign of a dog establishing dominance over the owner. The best way to combat this is for you to establish yourself as the clear-cut leader of the pack. There should be no struggle for the alpha spot. Food Aggression in Pugs Food aggression can vary quite a bit among individual dogs within a breed. And according to the AKC, Pugs are one of the 10 dog breeds that love to eat the most. But food aggression has three tiers to it: The dog can just growl, which is the first tier. The next level would be the dog snapping at a person or animal when they get too close. Of course, the final tier is biting. Fortunately, there are ways to deal with this. Still, she was protective of the snacks. Socializing the Pug One of, if not, the most important things you can do is to socialize your Pug. The best window of learning for a puppy starts around week 3 and closes sometime between week 16 and .Fortunately, there are many options for socializing a dog. The best and my recommended option is the dog park. If you have time, take your Pug to the dog park after work where there will be plenty of kids, adults and dogs. Dog parks are really the perfect place to socialize a dog. The Pug will be able to interact with all different breeds of dogs and the humans that take care of them! Having an obedient Pug means that you may be able to control aggressive behaviors better. Because Pugs are food-driven dogs, it can help a lot with obedience training since you already know what their main motivator is. However, I want to warn that Pugs are prone to obesity, especially with their lazy and relaxed temperaments. Do you own an aggressive Pug? What have you done that works? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:. Playing] October 27, by Susan Do you have a Pug puppy who is aggressive? You may be wondering why your puppy is so aggressive or if they are playing. Aggressive behaviors in puppies can be confusing, but there are ways to tell the difference. This article will teach you how to tell if your dog is playing or showing signs of aggression and what to do about it. If your Pug puppy is showing signs of aggression, it may have to do with the following: They have learned the aggressive behavior helps them get what they want. Have been punished incorrectly or too harshly. That said, every puppy or dog can be pushed into aggressive behavior depending on their circumstances, environment, upbringing, etc. Some people, especially first-time dog owners have a hard time differentiating play vs aggression. Playing Vs. Aggression Puppies in general are very active and hyper. They are constantly on the move and you can see them exploring their environment. Their goal is to learn more about everything around them, mostly through play. Puppies love to wrestle with each other or chase toys for fun because they enjoy moving fast while playing. They may even growl or nip at you when you try taking their toys away. Playful behavior in Pug puppies is different from aggressive behavior. Learned Behavior Pugs may learn to act aggressively by watching you act aggressively towards them or others, or you may discipline them with aggressive actions shouting, growling, pushing. A Pug owner needs to maintain an even temper and avoid using any sort of forceful or violent punishment so you do not teach your pup to act aggressively. Think of it as having a child. Punished too Harshly Punishing a puppy too harshly can cause aggression. This article will show you how to discipline your Pug puppy using positive reinforcement , which works best. You can avoid this by finding a way to spend more time with your pup. Pugs love being around their humans and too much neglect can cause behavioral problems. A puppy raised in a household with other animals is more likely to be well-adjusted than one who lives in an apartment or house where he or she is the only pet. A puppy that grows up with children that are not taught how to handle, play, or interact with a puppy can cause aggression. It will cause the puppy to become aggressive as a way to defend itself from the children. Lack of Socialization We hear about the importance of socializing our children with others their age. Doing so teaches them how to interact, behave, and play with others. Puppies, like our human children, need to be exposed to other canines so they can learn appropriate behavior. Puppies learn about aggression and playfulness by playing with other dogs. They will learn how they should behave in these situations by observing you as you react during these situations. Hormonal Changes Puppies experience a dramatic change in hormone levels at the time of puberty. Such as you see with teenagers in your home, these changes can lead to physical and behavioral problems. The hormonal change can cause aggression in both dogs and humans at this time. During adolescence, many dogs may bark more often, or show sudden signs of aggression. Aggressive Pug Puppy Warning Signs Now that you know what can cause aggression in any breed, how do you spot the signs early? After all, the sooner you spot the signs, the easier it will stop the behavior before it escalates. Early signs of aggression in puppies include being possessive over food and toys. Is your Pup protective over their food bowl? Does he or she growl, snarl, or snap at you when you walk by as they eat? Do they get mad or try to bite you when you reach for their bowl or pet them as they eat? Now that you know the signs, you may be asking how to deal with the aggressive behavior? Depending on the severity of the problem, you may want to consult with a professional dog trainer. Reinforcement training works best for aggressive dogs, especially, if you have rescued your dog from a bad living situation. Many online books and dog training courses will show you how to properly use treats to reward good behavior. Final Word Pugs are not known for being aggressive, but you should still be able to identify the difference between playful and aggressive behavior. After all, any dog regardless of breed can develop signs of aggression. Like children, need stability and discipline in their life. The best way of teaching your Pug puppy how to behave is through positive reinforcement training methods that avoid punishment. This will ensure you teach them what you want without making it worse by adding on extra aggression problems. You probably have an aggressive pug. Again, it completely depends on the circumstance. But this is possible from any dog, not just pugs. If they were brought up in a loving, safe environment and frequently socialized with other dogs, other kinds of pets, and humans of all ages, they are more likely to be a laid-back, well-mannered adult. If they never spent time around humans or other dogs, they might grow up to be suspicious, fearful, or — you guessed it — aggressive with other animals and people. Your pug is no different. Food aggression and resource guarding are relatively common among our canine friends. If your pug had to closely guard their food in the past, perhaps in a kennel or shelter situation, they may be wary of other pets or human family members trying to steal their food now. Fear Response Just like humans, a dog that was exposed to trauma in the past can experience behavior problems because of it, even years later. If your dog was abused in the past, it could lead to aggression in the present. This is especially common in rescue dogs who have come from traumatic backgrounds. Socialization Socializing your pup properly — ideally from puppyhood — is the best way to prevent aggressive behavior. Raise your dog in a comfortable, calm, safe environment. Interact with them frequently, touching and handling them on a daily basis. If you can, expose your dog to all sorts of people — men and women, young children and older folks — as well as other animals if you can do so safely. Just make sure to keep your dog on-leash and watch them closely. Obedience Training Of course, you might adopt a pug well after the puppyhood stage. It just takes proper training. Obedience training involves training your dog to respond to basic commands like sit, stay, come, and heel. There is also leash training and other areas of obedience training that may be helpful. One key technique in obedience training is positive reinforcement, in which you reward good behaviors in order to discourage bad ones. This might involve giving your pug a treat when they behave well around other dogs or children, for example. Dogs with severe cases of PTSD, or those who display food aggression to the point of biting other animals or humans, will need the help of a professional animal behaviorist or expert dog trainer. Anything from an infection to a physical injury could be causing pain and discomfort, resulting in aggression. So, Are Pugs Aggressive? Are pugs aggressive? No, not any more than other dog breed. It has much more to do with the individual dog than it does with the breed. Proper socialization — ideally from a young age — and obedience training are the primary ways to deal with an aggressive pug. You can go at it alone or seek the help of a professional dog trainer. Read more. How to prevent Pugs behaving aggressively Pugs are an ancient toy breed — they have graced the laps of rulers and aristocrats for hundreds of years. They are popular for their loyal and affectionate disposition, and human-like facial expressions. But unfortunately, the demand for dogs with increasingly flat faces has created enormous problems with brachycephalic diseases in the Pug breed. The steep cost of treating these problems often leads to Pugs being surrendered at dog shelters. Once there, they may have difficulty being rehomed. Partly due to needing ongoing medical care, and partly due to adopter anxiety about the risk of aggression in dogs with unknown histories. So what are the odds of a Pug behaving aggressively? What Makes Pugs Aggressive? All dogs are capable of acting aggressively. Their wild ancestors would have relied on it in order to survive. There are a few risk factors which are known to make some dogs more likely to behave aggressively than others. Several studies have reported that male dogs across many breeds are more likely to use aggression than female dogs. This is likely to be because male dogs are programmed to roam more widely in search of mates, and thus encounter more threats. Older dogs are also more likely to reach aggressively than younger dogs. This can be a result of pain due to health problems linked to old age. Or due to panic and confusion caused by cognitive degeneration dementia. Lack of general obedience training, and using punishment for aggressive behavior also increases the likelihood of dogs behaving aggressively. But more than anything, aggression in dogs is a learned response to threatening experiences in their past. Which means Pugs are more likely to react aggressively towards very specific triggers, rather than towards everything generally. Aggression between Pugs who live together is uncommon, but it has been documented. Lots of dogs become reactive towards other dogs if they have an unpleasant experience which creates a fear response in them next time. This kind of reactivity is sometimes very particular, and directed only at other dogs of the same breed, shape or color. Specificity means aggression towards other dogs is not a good predictor of aggression towards people. Or vice versa. Pugs can also form aggressive relationships with other dogs they live with. The most common type of aggression between cohabiting dogs is possessive aggression resource guarding. When this happens, it is usually the newest member of the household, or the younger dog of a pair who acts aggressively towards the other. Are Pugs Aggressive To Strangers? All dogs are more likely to behave aggressively towards strangers than people they already know. Smaller dogs, including Pugs, are also more likely to display stranger-directed aggressiveness than larger breeds. But good socialisation before 12 weeks old reduces the probability of Pugs being aggressive towards strangers. Puppy classes are a good way to achieve this, and there is an observable decrease in aggression towards strangers among dogs who attend them. Socialisation works by creating a positive association with meeting new people for your dog. Dogs who are confident that meeting a new person is going to be a happy and rewarding experience are less likely to react with fearful aggression. Pugs are famous for being sweet and affectionate to their human families. They can learn to react aggressively if their family use physical punishments on them though. Surprisingly, one study found that dogs generally, not just Pugs who attended obedience classes were also more likely to be aggressive towards their family. Additionally, rescue dogs are also more likely to be aggressive towards their families. This could be due to their new family unwittingly triggering fear responses which were created before they came home. An experienced behaviorist can help pinpoint the reasons for family-directed aggression, and plan a strategy for overcoming it. Are Pugs Safe With Children? Dogs which bite children often have an underlying health condition causing them pain, or an anxiety disorder. All dogs should always be supervised with all children. No matter how peaceful, trustworthy or reliable you think either one might be. How To Stop A Pug From Biting Aggression in Pugs is usually a learned response to past experiences — typically upsetting ones which make Pugs fearful next time, and like they need to defend themselves. These steps will help prevent aggressive behavior in Pugs: Socialize them widely as puppies. Start obedience training from puppyhood. Use positive reinforcement techniques — punishing aggression will make it worse! Introduce new dogs to the household in a careful and controlled fashion. With one exception — this study found that male dogs neutered or spayed between 7 and 12 months old are significantly more likely to behave aggressively to strangers. Puppy biting A quick note on Pug puppy biting. Many puppies go through a relentless biting stage. During this period, it can often feel like the biting is so bad, that there must be something wrong with your puppy. Maybe they have a built in character flaw which is going to make them aggressive for their whole life? Are Pugs Aggressive? So there you have it. Pugs are not typically considered an aggressive breed, but they are capable of aggression. Usually they will only react aggressively to specific triggers, and behaving aggressively in one situation is not a reliable predictor of aggression in other situations. Fortunately there are lots of things Pug parents can do to prevent aggressive behavior altogether. Pugs come primarily in three colors : silver, black, and apricot-fawn. They have a big round head with large sparkling eyes and are considered an ideal house dog. The Pug has always been popular among the aristocrats over the centuries. Pug Behavior Pugs tend to be loving, charming, and mild with an even temper. Because of these attributes, Pugs are perfect contenders for house and family dogs. They are easy-going with children, mildly sensitive, and relatively friendly to strangers. Sometimes they can be stubborn and slightly tricky to train. Are Pugs Aggressive? A Pug is a perfect family dog due to its personality and temperament. Generally, Pugs are not aggressive. But when not socialized effectively when young, they can be stubborn. Coming across an aggressive Pug is an infrequent occurrence since they take to food-based training easily and socialize fast, especially at a young age. What are the Causes of Aggression in Pugs? Several factors can contribute to aggressive behavior in Pugs, including lack of attention, being left alone for long periods, and neglect from its caregivers. Aggressive Pugs exhibit this trait through being bossy, barking, dominance, rushing, and pecking. Such aggression can be heredity, where parents pass these attributes to their litter. Other aggression causes include ill-treatment, and shouting, more so from handlers. Regardless, you can correct this concern through adequate training and socialization of the Pug when young. Having an aggressive Pug can be problematic, and as the owner, you need to curb this behavior to ensure the dog is friendly, gentle, and family-oriented. Training is necessary when your Pug is young since, at this time, pups are relatively easier to train as compared to older dogs. The training window is typically best at 3 to 16 weeks, but ideally before the 20th week. We recommend enrolling in a puppy training course, such as Pupford Academy , so you can be guided by experts. Training mostly involves behavioral training and socialization with the involvement of both humans and other dogs. These activities teach guide your Pug on how to perceive the world around them and how to respond to it. Socialization can be as simple as taking your Pug out for a walk, generally in a place with both dogs and humans such as a park. Behavioral training involves obedience training, where you teach your Pug basic commands. Training is the best way to prevent aggression. Pug puppies, just like most puppies, tend to be hyperactive. So, what contributes to this hyperactive Pug behavior? Among the leading factors include curiosity, separation anxiety, excitement and playfulness. Hyperactive pugs are likely to demolish things, bark for attention, bite and nip, chase things, and get little sleep. Hyperactive Pugs can be stressful for the owner because they demand attention all the time. But as your Pug puppy comes of age, it calms down. This change usually happens at around one and a half to two years. Occasionally, they will have these sudden bursts just like other dog breeds. These zoomies will only manifest when you expose your Pug to specific triggers such as bath time, which may call for restraining. Are Pugs Emotional? Pugs are emotional creatures. They have an affectionate side and a serious side. This trait is due to the secretion of a hormone called oxytocin, also present in humans, that makes them feel caring and loving to others. These basic emotions will include, joy, love, fear, disgust, and anger. Even so, they can also get depressed and anxious, especially when you leave them on their own for relatively long periods. Do Pugs Have Behavioral Problems? Though most Pugs are typically loyal, obedient, and disciplined, some may have behavioral problems depending on their personality. Common behavioral issues include barking, growling, nipping, whining, dominance, separation anxiety, and stubbornness. These issues differ with different Pugs, and not all Pug owners will encounter them. Final verdict Pugs are great family dogs, and with proper training can be emotional supporters. They are loving, loyal, emotional, and playful, great with children and easy to groom. Because of these attributes, Pugs are an ideal choice for many people. August 15, Fact Checked When looking to add a dog to your family, one of the first factors you must take into consideration is which breed best fits your lifestyle, personality, and interests. Each dog breed has breed specific characteristics that govern their overall temperament, needs, and potential health issues. With this in mind, each dog has their own unique personality and temperament within the overall breed and finding the right fit for you will leave you with a dog that brings you joy and lightens your life If you are considering a Pug as the right breed for you, you may be asking yourself, are Pugs aggressive? Pug aggression can arise and may be brought on by a variety of external variables, and knowing the inner workings of potential Pug aggression will help you make an educated choice about whether or not a Pug is the right furry friend for you. Pug Temperament When analyzing whether or not Pugs can be aggressive, it is important to establish a baseline of typical Pug traits and characteristics. Pugs are known for being extremely loyal and loving to their owners, and possess a silly streak that has earned them a reputation for being the clowns of the canine world. Pugs are often intelligent, which can lead to them being mischievous and headstrong when attempting to train them. Pugs are small in stature and were originally bred to be a lap dog, which results in many Pugs being very affectionate with their owners and wanting to be as close to them as possible. Aggression in Pugs Though Pugs can be very friendly and loving, they can become aggressive when not properly socialized. Aggression in Pugs is often manifested in barking, lunging, nipping, or growling. Pugs may be trying to establish dominance within a space that they feel is their territory through this behavior. Often, aggression in Pugs is also the result of a fear response. When a Pug is not properly socialized with other dogs , people, children, and noises, Pugs will react adversely when it comes into contact with these people, animals, or sounds due to their own anxiety and fear. Pugs may also only exhibit aggression within a certain context, known as a trigger, which is a unique situation that brings out a certain behavior in the Pug. Triggers vary widely between dogs depending on the breed, individual personality, and socialization as a puppy. Pugs may also demonstrate aggressive behavior in response to being left alone in an attempt to make their unhappiness known. Causes of Aggression in Pugs The causes of aggression in Pugs can vary greatly between dogs due to their genetics, socialization, training, and environment. If a Pug has one parent that is aggressive in nature, that may be passed down and may be a reaction exhibited by the puppy as well. In addition, if a puppy grows up around a parent that frequently shows aggressive behavior, they will begin to mimic this behavior as they become an adult. Another frequent cause of aggression in Pugs is a lack of proper training and socialization. Having a dog is a tremendous commitment and requires an owner willing to dedicate the time and resources necessary to show their dog the world and teach them how to properly respond to it. In addition, Pugs that have been abused or frequently exposed to high-stress, traumatic situations may also develop aggressive behaviors. Another possible cause of aggression in Pugs is a negative developmental experience that has left a lasting impression. One example is if a Pug puppy is introduced to another dog that tries to bite your dog or is overly rough with him, then your pup may respond negatively in the future when meeting a different dog because it remembers his prior negative experience and has developed a fear response. Preventing Aggression in Pugs Though Pugs can develop aggressive behaviors, they do not always exhibit aggression and innate aggressive behaviors can be remedied through training and dedication. One of the most important things you can do to help prevent aggression in your Pug is to properly train and socialize him for the entirety of his life. As owners, you teach your dog how to see and respond to the world around them. It is important to put your Pug in a variety of situations with different people, dogs, children, sounds, objects, so that if any aggressive behavior arises, you can correct it and teach your dog to respond differently in the future. Pugs are sweet. Many call them their babies. Phrases like aggressive Pugs or Pug fighting seems like oxymoron. Pugs are so friendly, and the most lovable, easy-going dog on the planet, the idea of them fighting or being aggressive just seems absurd! Pugs do fight more than we want to admit. Fortunately, underneath that bad behavior is still a sweet Pug baby. So, the success rate of getting them to stop them fighting is high. And they will go back to being your sweet, lovable Pugs as were meant to be. Pug puppies and even Pug dogs can get pretty rough and tumble. Some say Pug puppies can be aggressive. When they are very, very young, they spend most of the time that they are awake, wrestling with their littermates. Playing like this at a young age is a good thing, and part of their social development. Mom and their littermates teach them to not to be aggressive Pugs. Front end down and back end up in the air. Sometimes your Pug baby will slap her front legs on the floor repeatedly. There are no winners or losers. One minute Mimi is chasing Lulu, and the next minute, Lulu has turned around and is after Mimi. They are not being aggressive Pugs. The larger or stronger dog may self-handicap. He may put himself at a disadvantage like lying down, rolling over, or letting the Pug puppy walk on him. Play-growling can sound very serious. Growling is loud and exaggerated, but not aggressive. Their mouths may be wide open while attempting to growl, but no one is clamping down on the other one. This is not aggressive Pug behavior. They keep going back for more. They have a wide-open mouth and a big goofy grin. There is no bouncing; no taking turns, just one Pug going in to make the strike. The hackles stand up on her back. Her body is stiff. Has your Pug ever turned into pure muscle? She may be on the verge of becoming an aggressive Pug. There are no big funny smiles or bouncing up and down. One Pug dog has disengaged and trying to get away from the other. Pugs with flat back ears and curled lips tell you they are not playing. They are being aggressive Pugs. Why You May have an Aggressive Pug Lack of Socialization and Training Although socialization and training are two entirely different things, I believe they go hand in hand or paw in paw. Socializing your Pug or Pug puppy dog at the dog park may or may not be the best thing for her. It is best to socialize your Pug in a dog training class. Generally speaking, everyone has their entire focus on their dogs. The dogs are well-behaved or at least kept in check until they become well-behaved. There is no room for aggressive Pugs in dog training classes. It is best to talk to some dog trainers to see if they incorporate proper socialization into their lessons, such as owners taking turns walking up to other owners while both dogs remain on leash. It is a good way for all dogs to get close to each other while respecting boundaries. Taking your Pug dog or puppy to the dog park has a lot of variables that you cannot control. If your Pug dog is the lone Pug at home and never been around other dogs, it may be overwhelming for him to go to the dog park on a busy Saturday. Bullying at the Dog Park Bullying can take place, and other owners may not understand how traumatizing it can be for a small Pug. The first time I took Mimi to a dog park, she was very young and also the lone Pug in the house at that time. There was a Pug meetup at the dog park, so I thought this would be a great time to introduce her to other dogs. Only friendly Pugs were going to be there. Mimi was timid with the other dogs, and the other Pugs quickly picked up on this. Before I knew it, about 5 to 6 Pugs were chasing Mimi around. She was scared, with her ears pulled back. Some of the owners half-heartedly called their aggressive Pugs away, although the Pug dogs did not comply. Immediately, I picked Mimi up and got her to settle down in my arms. I attempted to put her back down on the ground, but I could see she was scared, and that was it for her that day. Fortunately, we did go to this group when she was older, and there were no long-lasting adverse effects. But there can be. A Pug can become traumatized and always be afraid of other dogs. It has affected their nervous system and, once triggered, can not talk themselves out of the emotional reactions. The same goes for our Pug dogs. Taking them back to the dog park after an event like that is okay sometimes. Sometimes not. If your Pug has been traumatized by aggressive Pugs or other dogs, they may be triggered by being there. Helping your Pug dog work through trauma can be a long process that requires a lot of patience on your part. Later I got Mimi and Lulu involved in training that built their confidence around other dogs, and no bullying was allowed. The message is that this rough behavior is a standard way to act with other dogs. Likewise, your Pug starts giving harsh treatment to other dogs. Raise your standards and keep your Pug safe and sweet. Otherwise, your Pug may think this is normal and act this way with other dogs. Or your Pug may be traumatized and out of their fear response, become aggressive with other dogs. Their fear may push them into a place where they think all dogs are aggressive. When Pugs or any dogs get overly excited, they may forget the social rules and fights starts. Another time of increased excitement is territorial barking. When two dogs see something on the other side of their fence or the mailman comes to the door, they may redirect the Pug aggression onto the other. These situations can trigger even the sweetest Pug to bite. It is crucial if there is something on the other side of the fence that is causing your Pug dogs distress to bring him inside. Bring your Pug inside if this happens. Firstly, our Pugs can not tolerate that type of heavy breathing for long periods. And it is not good for our Pugs or anyone to be left in a high distress situation for long periods of time. As already mentioned, dog parks can offer a lot of excitement in the environment. Also, other dogs may be protective of their ball or owner. He may aggressively approach your Pug dog or puppy. Uncrowded dog parks are better times to take your Pug, whether he is territorial and possessive or a sweet Baby Pug. Family vacations are a lot of fun. Family, friends, and their dogs that you and your Pug have not seen in a while can be stressful for your Pug. Make sure your Pug and all the dogs are safe, and no one needs a break. Be certain no dogs are showing beginning signs of aggression. You may be navigating your relationships, getting reacquainted with relatives and friends. The dogs may be figuring out their relationships with a lot of instincts about territory and protecting their owners. This could result in aggressive Pugs. Their fear response can result in their own aggression. Their fear response can look like barking, growling, lunging, and nipping. Given the opportunity to reach that other dog, they may become aggressive. Change in Routine We all like routine, even our Pug dogs. It tells us the world is a safe place, and we can expect what is going to occur next. This give build stress. We all like routine, even our Pug dogs. The stress has built up over time. You get that taken care of, get to work, and spill coffee on yourself before the meeting. There is too much going on at work, so we skip lunch. And it goes on like this until we get home and our child asks us to help him with his homework. This is how it can go with our Pug dogs also. Their owner skips their morning walk because she is in a hurry to get to work. The Fed-Ex person drops off a package and knocks on the door. That night there is a thunderstorm, and your Pug dog hides behind the couch. She ends up growling at you and backs up. She is exhibiting aggressive behavior. You conclude that your Pug dog is afraid of the thunderstorm, which is true. But throughout the day, many events increased her stress level, which you are not aware of. Pug Dogs Love Food, Bones, Toys, Sleeping Areas Dogs live in social groups, and if you have multiple dogs in the home, this hierarchy does exist and can change throughout the day or situation. This is my bone! Not exactly what you might call an aggressive move, but she is letting her know, using the least amount of energy that she can, that it is her toy. Here are some resources that your Pug dog may feel he or she needs to protect: Food Although Mimi and Lulu never had any fights over food, I put Lulu in her playpen when they eat. Before Lulu ate in her playpen, I would put both food bowls down on opposite sides of the room. They would start eating, and Mimi would run over towards Lulu to get her food. About halfway over, I believe Mimi realized that she just left her own bowl unattended and would go back. That seemed like a rather stressful meal for Mimi, so I began putting Lulu in her playpen. Now there are no running back and forth problems. Toys Toys are also a limited resource. Sometimes I buy a new toy, and it becomes the prized item. Both will do anything to get their teeth on that toy. Pug dogs may just play back and forth with the toy, but you never know. Watch for aggression. Bed Sleeping areas can be a problem. Sometimes there is a favorite bed or blanket that is the coveted position. Generally speaking, I go to bed about 20 minutes before the time I actually want to go to sleep. It is the same routine. Everyone has to get settled in. However, I feel like it is more than just getting comfortable. It has to do with who gets the prime spot with Mom that night. There is a lot of walking around, walking on top of me, and switching positions. Finally, everyone is settled in and feels content with their spot. Bones Bones are considered a high-value resource. I am speaking about the high-value bully stick or deer antler. Even dogs that get along great may show some signs of aggression when these are around. Attention Attention from Mom or Dad can feel like something a Pug needs to protect and get more of. Coming home from work can be a time to look for aggressive behavior. Do your Pugs greet you equally, or is one always pushing the other out of the way? Does one stare at the other Pug baby when you are giving her attention? Believe it or not, this is aggressive Pug behavior. We have an unusual situation in our house. When I give Mimi attention and kisses, if Lulu is nearby, she can not enjoy it. Comment below if this happens in your house. Changes in the Grumble Your Pug grumble has a ranking order, although it may be more challenging to see with Pugs as compared to Pitbulls. The higher-ranking Pug tolerates the lower-ranking members. That action reinforces that the higher-ranking Pug dog is at the top. When a higher-ranking Pug starts to become old and weak, a younger dog may step in. There are displays the younger-ranking dog will engage in to get the older higher-ranking dog to back down. It may be a form of mild aggression. The older Pug dog may get hurt as she is now weaker, may have medical issues. And those aches and pains of the older dog may lead her to be more aggressive. Sometimes dogs will strike out early in an attempt to get other dogs away. Getting romped on by Pug puppies or younger Pugs can be painful to an older Pug with stiff joints. However, the older dog may want to give up her top position and automatically defer. A mid-day afternoon nap followed by a cocktail sound much more pleasant. New Pug to the Grumble A new Pug added to the grumble makes changes in the social group. In such a scenario, the dogs will require some adjustments. The new Pug must find his place in the social hierarchy of the Pug grumble. Or he may be a Pug puppy without a care in the world, jumping all over everyone, oblivious to the signs the other Pug dogs are giving to respect their boundaries. If the new Pug is too assertive or the new Pug puppy is too carefree, there could be scuffles until everyone understands their place. Humans Owners can inadvertently fuel the fire of Pug problems. The owner may give too much attention to the new Pug baby in the grumble, making others jealous. The owner may intervene by trying to protect a lower-ranking dog. The Pug needs to learn to back off. If the owner intervenes by defending the lower-ranking Pug and correcting the higher-ranking Pug, this could escalate problems to aggressive Pug behaviors. We all do this type of behavior. You have school tomorrow. Same-Sex Pug Aggression Some breeds are more likely to engage in same-sex aggression than others. If you own two female or two male dogs, fighting is not unusual at all. Protective behavior or aggressiveness are not standard Pug traits. Therefore, there is a decreased likeliness for behavioral conflicts, but any breed may have this problem In nature, back in the day when wild Pugs roamed the land in grumbles, foraging for kibbles on their own, two males or two females of the same age would not be in the same social group. Once they matured, they leave the group to form groups of their own. Also, in the Pug pack, there were two separate hierarchies; one for males and one for females. It is also vital as hormonal changes in males and females can lead to same-sex Pug aggression or fighting. Dogs become socially mature between the ages of 12 to 36 months. Hormonal changes during heat cycles and pregnancy can increase the likelihood of fights, even between sweet Pug. However, when two females are close in age, there is a lot of competition. These fights occur, especially if the owner is around. Fights may occur over who gets in or out of the door first. I have to be very aware when I let my two females inside. There have been numerous times when I have had to tell everyone to calm down, going through the door. There can be squabbles over toys, food, treats, or the primo sleep location in bed. How to Prevent a Fight with Aggressive Pugs It is always better to prevent a fight, rather than try to break one up. Even two Pug babies can get pretty out of control. You must be willing to dedicate time and money to show your Pug baby the world and teach them how to live in it peacefully. Many people get Pugs because they are so easy going and lovable. However, our Pug dogs still need to learn to socialize with others. As I pointed out earlier in this article, a training arena may be the best place for that. If your Pug does not have problems with aggression, a proper training group will keep him safe while learning to navigate the world of dog socialization. And on the off chance your Pug dog is aggressive, regardless of the reason, we need to step in with socialization and proper training. Your Pug needs to be involved with different people, dogs, children, noises, other things, so if any problem arises, you can teach your Pug dog how to respond to it differently if she is aggressive or timid. Basic obedience training will help your Pug to listen to you better. Therefore, if your Pug is in a potentially volatile situation, you will be able to call him out of the situation or change his focus. Recognize Signals of Possible Fights One of the best ways to prevent fights is to pay attention and recognize subtle signs of conflict. Being watchful gives you an early on chance to separate the Pug dogs quickly and calm everyone down. Pay extra attention while at dog parks and other events where there are numerous dogs and people. Look for signals if there is a high-value item, such as a favorite toy or chew bone. Treats can lead to aggressiveness in Pugs. Watch for signals when they are having their extra rambunctious playtime. Also, if it has ever turned into a real fight, what happened just before it occurred. Look for the signs such as flat back ears, hackles standing up, and uneven winner and loser outcomes. If one Pug is always running and trying to get away, it is time to intervene. Intervene in a way that catches their attention, but is not aggressive. Yelling just adds to the arousal level and may increase the probability they will fight. That spit second lets me redirect them or call them to come to me. I also use a spray bottle. I used to use a long stream of water and spray it directly on them. Somewhere along the line, Lulu chewed on the end, and it only shoots a mist. So, I walk over and either just shake the bottle or shoot the mist. They stop and shake off. If your Pugs are outside and running back and forth with the dog on the other side of the fence, they may turn to their Pug pal on their side and direct their hostility on him. Give your Pugs some alone time is a family gathering or party with a lot of activity. If kids are rambunctiously running around, keep an eye on your Pugs. They may become overly excited, and a switch may flip that the kids are fighting, not playing. This in turn could create aggressiveness in your Pugs. You may notice that dogs rarely fight when then is no human in the room or area. Avoid dog parks if you have a dog that has a possessive demeanor. Not every dog is right for the dog park. Unfortunately, not everyone at a dog park has the same consideration, and even a docile dog can become involved in a fight. Even with this combination, they should be a few years apart. Like I said before, rarely are two dogs around the same age in a pack in the wild. Their wiring is for packs where males and females of different ages coexist. If you do have two females, the situation is not impossible. I think you have a better chance of creating natural harmony with Pugs as our Pugs are breed to be companion, loving dogs, as opposed to hunters, guardians, or aggressive types. Intervene if something looks like more than a minor squabble. You may need to spend more time in training sessions in a group setting. If you own two females or males and they are prone to fighting, never leave them alone together. They should be in separate rooms or crated. In our family, when I leave for work or the store, Lulu goes to her playpen. When I come out of my bedroom, dressed in work clothes, she runs into her playpen area. She has water, some toys, and a blanket. Separate will stop any aggressiveness with Pugs. As always, spaying and neutering your Pug dogs for other reasons is still a good idea. Same for Pugs. It could be their favorite toy, chew bones, high-value bones, like bully bones, treats, or their food bowl. They are more likely to be hyper-alert just as you are when some little kid tries to grab a handful of your Godiva chocolates. Feed your Pugs separately. I think this is always a good idea with Pugs. Most pugs, not all, are chowhounds. They love their dinner and breakfast. They love their food and are going to be more possessive than other dogs. Having two Pugs around food can lead to aggressive Pugs. Once finished, pick up their food bowls, clean them, and put them away. The sight of the other getting near their food bowl can be a trigger to defend what is rightfully theirs. Most dogs will hoard and become extremely possessive of bones and chew toys. If you need to take a bone away and are concerned your Pug dog is so possessive, he may nip you, distract him with something else and then remove it. Do not attempt to separate the aggressive Pugs by grabbing them. I have never known a Pug baby to bite anyone, but it could happen. Usually, I can get away with just shaking my water bottle near my Pugs, and they stop immediately. Overall, they are lovers, not aggressive fighters, so something like this should break them up. If more is needed, grab a baby gate or broom and put it between them. Make sure your loud noise is not you yelling. Your excitement can add to their excitement, escalating the entire situation, and make them more aggressive. The loud noise could be an air horn, door slam, or hitting a spoon on a pan lid. Generally, one loud, startling noise. Not a lot of yelling that is stimulating. I generally knock on the door or wall as if somone is coming over. They stop and look at the door. Once separated, put your Pug dogs in separate rooms. They will assess and evaluate what triggers the fights, who starts the fights, assesses their environment, and much more. These are not trainers. They are concerned with animals who are having behavior problems and set up programs to address and correct the issues. If this does not work, you will want to talk to your CAAB about dividing your home so your dogs can live separately or re-homing your Pug dog. If the dogs still live in a constant state of arousal even though they are separated, re-homing might be the best solution for the Pug dog, although heartbreaking for you. I have never heard of a Pug being re-homed due to aggressiveness. Work with your Veterinary and your Behaviorist to find the right option for your Pug. Hopefully, you will never have to take this route as Pugs are such a gentle breed, but if it does happen, you want to be sure to do what is in the best interest of your Pug dog. Although you can be hopeful, this does not mean it will be easy. Most likely, you will need to involve your Pug dog in group training and keep a watchful eye on their behaviors. Often they will exhibit a signal, sometimes slight, that they are getting annoyed or possessive and are about to lash out on another dog. Get your Pug dog spayed or neutered. Bringing another Pug into the grumble can take some thought on your part regarding sex and age of the new member. These are all life skills we teach our Pugs that do last a lifetime, and as an added bonus, we get to spend more time with our Pugs when training! Post navigation.

The simple answer is that we rescue unwanted and abandoned purebred Boxers and place them in safe, responsible, loving, forever homes. The reality encompasses so much more than the simple answer. Boxers entering TBRO are often sick or injured, some are suffering from neglect or abuse. Some come from loving families that can no longer care for them. TBRO volunteers care for each and every one of these boxers. Upon entering TBRO, each boxer is vetted and brought current on shots, and heartworm and flea prevention. When necessary, they are treated for heartworms, parasites, and other illnesses and injuries. Needless to say, our vet bills can be very high. Yes, We Rescue Boxers! Some are healthy and up-to-date on shots and preventions, many need expensive medical care, like Champ. Champ's story has a happy ending, but it didn't start out very well for her. To help cover the medical expenses of Champ and others like him, please donate securely online through PayPal. We appreciate donations of any amount! Your donation is tax deductible. Our Next Event.This fun-filled family fundraiser, now in its 13th year, will feature a 1 mile walk through the beautiful Scissortail Park in Oklahoma City. There will be plenty of food, and fun for pets and their human companions. All breeds are welcome! Can't come for the walk, come for the fest! Come Out And Join Us!!! Welcome to the Oklahoma state page on TrustedPuppies. Located in the South Central region of the United States, Oklahoma is famous for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and abundance of dog-friendly activities. Our site features a wide variety of reputable OK breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new puppy. Oklahoma comes in 16th place among U. For those who enjoy the dog show scene, events such as the Oklahoma City Summer Classic Dog Show are perfect opportunities to engage with fellow Boxer enthusiasts and appreciate these wonderful dogs. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Boxer breeders provide secure and affordable flight delivery. A dedicated flight nanny accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring a safe and comfortable trip as they travel to their new home in the Sooner State. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option ensures your Boxer puppy is brought to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Start your search for the perfect Boxer puppy today on TrustedPuppies. Oklahoma City: .As the 9th most recognized and popular dog breed in the world, whether the brindle fur colored, white or fawn, a boxer is a delight to look at and a fabulous companion around. Discover more about our Boxer puppies for sale below! History From ancient Germany precisely around the 19th century had the now extinct mastiff breed Bullenbeisser and bulldogs brought in from England. At the time of their arrival, they served as hunting dogs for bears, deer, and other ferocious beasts, it would capture the prey with the help of its awesome teeth and detain it until the hunter arrives. And in the first boxer standard club was launched with a comprehensive document that is still in use today. Shortly after, the breed made its way into other European countries and got into the U. S in the late 19th century with the American Kennel Club taking registration of its first boxer around .During the first world war, boxers played the role of a military dog as a pack-carrier, a guard dog, and an attack dog, later they were taken home by the soldiers and got introduced into the domestic world as a show dog, best companion, and a reliable guard. Temperament One with so much life, energetic, curious, attentive, active, smart, sociable and incredible fun with children is the boxer, they are also known to be very patient and highly protective of their family members making them the love and desire of many homes. As active dogs, they need a lot of exercise to keep them mentally fit, apparently having a mind of its own, you will find your boxer entertain itself by digging the ground often, chewing, and licking the mouth to beat boredom. They are also very stubborn in character which makes them a terrible choice for first-timers with dogs, they are generally a bit difficult with adult dogs including dogs of a similar breed but friendly with puppies. They usually do not bark unless there is a genuine reason behind it but they love to growl. Environment If you have occupied home with people around all the time or you want a canine buddy the whole time, then a boxer is just the perfect breed to get. Being a highly active dog, they dread loneliness and they can cope finely in both a house and an apartment as long as you provide it with enough room and spaces for exercises and activities. What you must have is a large yard if you are living in a house for it to dig the ground and run around as it likes. And more so, if you are given to being away from home most of the time, getting a boxer may not be the best for you and the dog, because they usually get aggressive when left alone. Boxers are known as loud snorers and they drool greatly too. Exercises Boxers are playful and very energetic dogs as such regular exercises are part of a good canine relationship, especially a breed of this sort. Your boxer should be allowed to play in a fenced area and on-leashed since it is likely to jump and leap around in excitement. This puts a boxer as a bad choice for a frail owner as they may find it a tad impossible and daunting keeping up with its excessive activity demands. Grooming Being a breed with a short and thin coat its grooming demands are quite easy and little, all it needs is a light brushing of the hair twice every week to maintain its good and gleeful looks. Bathing should be a once in a while since boxers are generally clean dogs and its nails, be trimmed once every month or as often as they grow worn on surfaces, its teeth should also be brushed daily to avoid tartar formation and other dental crises. Our Boxer puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Contact us today to learn more about the availability of our Boxer puppies for sale. We look forward to helping you find your next family member. Our pet counselors can answer any questions you have about our Boxer puppies. Yes, boxers are particularly fond of their family members especially when goodly trained. Are Boxers trainable? Though the boxers can be a little headstrong, they are very intelligent and with a proper training environment, they respond well. Are Boxers friendly with kids? They are very fond of children and they love playing games with them. Are Boxers friendly with other animals? Boxers are naturally patient with puppies, pooches and small animals but a bit unaccommodating of adult dogs and other animals. Are Boxers good apartment dogs? They can live anywhere you make as a home all you need is to provide it with enough space for exercise. How is Boxers shedding? Given the shortness of their coat, they shed minimally and occasionally, you can also regulate the shedding by frequent brushing of their coat. Are Boxers good for first-time owners? Not quite, as their exercise needs are way too high for their inexperienced hands. Are Boxers loud barkers? But growling is a thing they do most. Are Boxers tolerable to heat and cold? All they need is moderate exposure to heat and cold because of their thin fur body. How long can Boxers live? The average life-span of boxers is 10 years.

Fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are good for us. Indeed, some fruits are superfoods and help fight cancer. But are all fruits good for dogs too? The answer is both yes and no. While many fruits are safe for dogs to eat, some fruits are toxic , and some carry unwanted risks. For example, dogs cannot eat avocados and grapes, while the pits in cherries and plums can also pose a problem. Stop Googling - Ask a Real Vet On the contrary, some other fruits help strengthen their immune system, improve skin, reduce inflammations, and aid digestion. With this in mind, for your dog's well-being, it's essential to know which fruits dogs can eat and which may be dangerous for their health. Here's your guide to fruity goodness for your pup. Apples Can dogs eat apples? Come on, who would resist munching on a crunchy apple? Apples pose no significant concerns for dogs' health except for apple seeds. They usually contain traces of cyanide, and dogs should avoid them. Also, an apple core is a choking hazard. To keep tails wagging, feed your dog sliced, deseeded apples! Bananas Bananas come in convenient packaging the skin and makes for a healthy snack on the move. They are packed with potassium, which is essential for a strong heart and efficient kidneys. Bananas are also decent snacks for dogs, thanks to their high biotin, magnesium, and fiber content. But be aware bananas are high in sugar. If your dog gains weight easily, give bananas only as an occasional treat. Also, be wary of peels. Banana peels are not toxic to canines, but they can cause intestinal blockage. Blackberries These berries are juicy, delicious, and full of vitamins. But can dogs eat blackberries? The rich dark color hints that blackberries are high in antioxidants, along with vitamin A and C. They contribute to a strong immune system and healthy skin in dogs. Too many blackberries can cause tummy upset and diarrhea, so you should mind the portions. As for the serving type, feel free to give fresh or baked blackberries in moderate amounts. Blueberries Are fruits good for dogs? It's a big "yes" for blueberries. These juicy bubbles of goodness are rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants. Dubbed a superfood by some, blueberries are also packed with fiber and phytochemicals, making them a solid treat for your pup. Blueberries are an ideal training treat. An individual blueberry gives a rewarding pop of sweetness with added antioxidants and vitamins. Melon Can dogs eat cantaloupe melon? Yes, but only in moderation. This fruit has high sugar content. Diabetic dogs and those prone to weight gain should only eat cantaloupe as an occasional treat. Prepare cantaloupe for your pet by removing the seeds and cutting the flesh into chunks. Don't let your pup lick the melon skin as it may harbor bacteria. Also, cantaloupe rinds, much like watermelon ones, should be removed to eliminate the choking risks. On the plus side, cantaloupe is rich in vitamin A, B, and C. These are great for digestive health and strengthen the immune system. Cranberries Cranberries are fine treats for dogs, which your pooch might enjoy. These make a tart treat, which isn't suited to every dog's taste. Cranberries contain vitamin C and are naturally acidic, which makes them a natural urinary disinfectant. For this reason, cranberries are recommended for dogs with urinary tract issues. As with many fruits, cranberries are good in moderation. Can dogs eat cranberries? Yes Will all dogs enjoy eating cranberries? Possibly not. Coconut Coconut milk is heralded for its health-giving properties, but what about coconut meat? Can dogs eat coconut? Coconut is arguably just as good for dogs as oil. It is a source of natural anti-inflammatories, which can benefit conditions like arthritis, skin allergies , and inflammatory bowel disease. However, the upside of coconut is also its weakness. Coconut meat contains medium-chain triglycerides a form of fat. It makes it unsuitable for dogs prone to pancreatitis or those with delicate stomachs. Coconut meat is high calorie, so pooches on diets should avoid it. Honeydew Melon And can dogs eat honeydew? It is a sugary sweet treat suitable for most dogs, except for pups with diabetes. The high sugar content makes it unwise to give honeydew to a diabetic dog. It also contains traces of copper and iron, which makes for healthy red blood cells. Honeydew has to be served without any seeds and preferably cut into tiny cubes. Remember that honeydew is still a treat because feeding too much may cause diarrhea and stomach upset. Kiwi Kiwi is a safe fruit for dogs that contains healthy doses of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. It also contains flavonoids and carotenoids, which are great antioxidants. They protect against cancer, help cell rejuvenation, and strengthen the immune system. This juicy snack contributes towards healthy skin, blood circulation, and the digestive system. Although canines' nutritional requirements are different from humans', kiwi is still an excellent snack for your pooch. Mango Mangos make for a tasty, nutritious treat. But can dogs eat mango as a part of a regular diet? Rich in carotenoids, potassium, vitamins, and minerals, strips of mango flesh are sweet treats for pups. However, mango should still be served sparingly or as a part of a balanced canine diet. Be careful to remove the hard pit. Like apples, the mango pit contains cyanide which is toxic to dogs and interferes with breathing. Also, a mango pit swallowed whole will block the bowel, requiring urgent surgery to remove it. Oranges Oranges are rich in vitamin C and can help flush toxins from the body for a natural detox. Peel your pooch an orange to boost their skin and coat condition. Sweet and juicy, oranges are safe for dogs and taste great. Generally, oranges, tangerines, and mandarines should still be an occasional treat and not a regular diet. Avoid feeding orange skin, large amounts of pith, or seeds to your dog. These parts of an orange contain an oil that may irritate dogs' stomachs and is best avoided. Pears Are pears good for dogs? Shortly, pear is a safe fruit for canines. Vitamin K is essential to aid blood clotting, while vitamin C makes for a strong immune system. As with other fruits, to get the most of pears, you should remove the pit and seeds first since they contain cyanide in tiny amounts. Besides that, pears are best served fresh rather than canned with sweet syrup. Pineapple Is pineapple good for dogs? The short answer is a big "yes. Pineapples contain vitamins, folate, and zinc which are great for a dog's digestion and immune system. This fruit also contains bromelain, which helps break down proteins and makes them easier to digest. Be aware pineapples are sweet and sugary, so feed in moderation. Also, big chunks can pose a choking hazard, so keep those pieces treat-sized. Raspberries Rich in vitamin C, manganese, and fiber, raspberries are a tasty antioxidant treat. But are raspberries good for dogs? Thanks to their nutritional benefits, an occasional raspberry won't hurt your dog. However, raspberries might contain micro-traces of natural xylitol , which is toxic to dogs. It means that dogs can have raspberries in moderation but don't feed them by the bucket load. Strawberries And what about strawberries? Thanks to their enzyme content and a solid nutritional profile, strawberries are also great for dogs' health. This substance can mildly whiten a pup's teeth, which is another great perk. On the downside, strawberries contain a protein which gives strawberries their red color which causes an allergic reaction in some individuals. The signs include swelling of the dog's lips and a sore mouth, some of the common allergic reactions in dogs. Tangerines Can dogs eat tangerines? Much like oranges and other citrus fruits, tangerines are safe for dogs to eat. In some cases, tangerines can also cause stomach upsets. They should still be served in moderation because of their high sugar content. So if your dog has an excessive weight , mind that tangerines should be more of an occasional treat. Watermelon Think of watermelon as a refreshing and healthy drink. But is watermelon good for dogs? The answer is "yes," but with a few precautions. Watermelon rinds are choking hazards, so you should remove them in the first place. There are fruits dogs can't eat because the flesh is dangerous, or the pits will make your fur friend ill. Apricots Can dogs have apricots? Not really. While the fruit is succulent and bursting with potassium and beta carotene, the pit is dangerous. Just like apples, plums, and peaches, apricot pits are a source of toxic cyanide. And to make matters worse, the pit is the right size to lodge in a small dog's gut which can cause a serious blockage. And if your pooch eats too many apricots, they can cause diarrhea and stomach upset. As a compromise, always slice the fruit of the pit when giving apricots to your dog. Avocado You or one of your friends probably like to eat avocado toast for breakfast. They are really nutritious and healthy. But not everything that is good for humans is good for animals. Avocados contain a substance called persin , which is toxic to dogs. The concentration of persin is highest in the peel, but even the flesh contains too much for a dog to handle. Compared to other animals, dogs are the most resistant to persin, but the risk is not worth it because avocados contain too little for a dog to eat properly. How do you know if your dog has been poisoned by a peach? The symptoms of peach poisoning are vomiting and diarrhea. If your dog has accidentally eaten an avocado, contact your veterinarian for advice. You'll get a quick response from a certified veterinarian at any time for any health-related question, including your dog's diet. Cherries Cherry pulp is delicious, but there's not much of it compared to the size of the pit. So, can dogs eat cherries? A significant risk here is your dog gorges on the tasty pulp and will gobble down the pits by accident. While technically cherry flesh is OK for dogs, the high cyanide content in stems, leaves, and pit make this fruit unsuitable for canines. Not only do the pits contain cyanide, causing breathing difficulties and death, but they will also block the bowel. Untreated, this damages the gut wall and can be fatal. Dates Are dates good for dogs? Although dates aren't toxic, they aren't recommended as a dog treat. For one thing, only the flesh is edible and can have at least some nutritional benefits. A dog wolfing down whole dates, including the pits, risks a serious bowel obstruction. Also, dates are high in fiber and sugar, so eating more than a few causes doggy diarrhea. Don't panic if your dog snaffles the odd date, but this isn't something to encourage. Figs Can dogs have figs? They are one of those fruits dogs can't eat except in strict moderation. The advice is to feed no more than one or two fresh figs per week as their high fiber content causes diarrhea in dogs. In addition, figs contain ficin, which can be irritant to some dogs. Signs of a reaction include heavy drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Don't panic if this happens; fig flesh isn't a toxin, just an irritant, so the symptoms should pass. Grapes Grapes head the list of fruits dogs can't eat. Both grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs. Feeding even a few can cause kidney failure in some unlucky dogs. The toxin is as yet unidentified, but this doesn't change the fatal facts. Never feed grapes or raisins to dogs. If your dog consumed grapes accidentally, contact your vet immediately. Peaches Can dogs eat peaches? Vitamin A in this fruit can help dogs fight infection. While it's fine to offer your dog slices of fresh peach, once again, it's the pit that's a hazard. Still, don't forget that fruits should be just a tiny part of a dog's diet, and the same applies to peaches. The pit is the perfect size to lodge in the intestine and cause a life-threatening blockage. Plus, pits contain cyanide. Enough said. Plums Can dogs eat plums? The problem with plums is their size relative to the pit. The fruit is okay to eat, but there's not much of it. A dog nose down in a bowl of plums will also eat the pits, which has potentially life-threatening consequences. Yes, the pits contain cyanide, but more worrisome is that a pit is a suitable size to block the intestine. Therefore, plums should be avoided unless you first slice the fruit of the pit. Hints and Tips Yes, your dog can have too much of a good thing. A fruit binge is likely to upset your dog's stomach, so take things slowly. Introduce one new fruit at a time. It allows your dog's digestion to get used to the new treat. As your dog adjusts to the sweet goodness and fiber, it's OK slowly to offer more. If your dog gets diarrhea at any stage, then rein back on the quantity for a few days. As a rule, if we the humans typically don't eat the skin or the pit, then neither should the dog. Be aware that dogs will not pick out the pits, and if swallowed, it can be very dangerous. Remember to feed only the fruit and carefully remove seeds or the pit. Also, don't forget to wash fruit before serving to remove contaminating bacteria that could cause illness. Can My Dog Eat Fruit? Fruits are good for pups, with many positive health benefits. From better bladder health to slimming down your dog, fruits can improve your dog's overall well-being. How about making small changes, such as switching some commercial treats to fruit? It will strengthen the dog's immune system and give them a glossier coat. Just be careful to avoid those fruits dangerous to dogs such as avocado and grapes. Remember to feed fruit in moderation, especially at first, to allow your dog's tummy to adapt to all that sweet goodness. Cheers to happier, healthier fur-friends! Dog fruits chart. Plus they make a tasty dog treat! Of course, certain fruits and vegetables will be better for your dog than others. Best Fruits for Dogs Here are some tasty and healthy fruits for dogs that are safe to feed to pups in small quantities. Always consult your veterinarin before adding a new treat to your dog's diet. Plus cantaloupes are loaded vitamin A and lots of beta carotene, which helps reduce the risk of cancer and prevents cell damage. Just avoid feeding your dog the rind of the cantaloupe, as it can cause intestinal damage. Make sure to remove all seeds from an apple before giving it to your dog. Apple seeds contain cyanide, and eating them over time can be hazardous. Treats made with real apple, like Nutro Crunchy dog treats , give your dog the apple flavor without any of the mess. As an added bonus, the tannins found in blueberries also help prevent urinary tract infections. Blue Buffalo Blue Bits dog treats are the perfect training tool, packed with antioxidants from blueberries and DHA to support cognitive development in young dogs. The seeds and rinds of watermelon should also be avoided, as they are too difficult for dogs to digest and can cause damage. Best Vegetables for Dogs Check out our list of vegetables for dogs that can add a boost of nutrition to their diet. Be sure to check with a veterinarian before giving your pet a new treat. There are plenty of pumpkin dog supplements, like Nummy Tum-Tum organic supplement. This unique ingredient can help alleviate diarrhea and constipation. And it has been known to promote his overall cardiovascular health. Green beans are good for dogs because of their omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and K. And your dog should be eating brussels sprouts for their vitamins K and G, manganese, folate, fiber, potassium and vitamins A, B1 and B6. See more fruits that safe for dogs: By: Cheryl Lock. Can dogs eat fruit? The answer depends on the type of plant, as only some are safe for canine consumption. We know that fruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for humans, but dogs have very different nutritional requirements. Some fruits can benefit dogs by: Strengthening their immune system Aiding digestion Improving their skin and coat However, in other cases, the risks associated with dogs eating fruit can far outweigh the potential benefits. For example, doing so could cause dog diarrhea , constipation, diabetes, or food poisoning toxicosis. What fruits can dogs eat? Many dogs enjoy snacking on healthy, fruity treats between meals. Still, you should only let them indulge from time to time to avoid the risk of adverse side effects. So, what are some of the best fruits to feed dogs? Apples Apples are great for dogs are chock-full of vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, and dietary fiber. You can safely feed them to your dog, but make sure to remove the seeds because apples can contain small amounts of cyanide. Cut the apple into smaller pieces to make it easier for your pet to chew and digest. Bananas Bananas are rich in potassium, biotin, vitamins, and fiber. Just keep an eye on them and go to the vet at any signs of distress. Blueberries Blueberries are good for dogs because they're loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, phytonutrients, and dietary fiber. Strawberries Strawberries are another great alternative to store-bought dog treats. On the flip side, these bright red berries are high in sugar, so be sure to serve them in moderation. They can also cause an allergic reaction in some dogs, so make sure to be extra careful when feeding them to your pet. Raspberries Raspberries are low in calories but rich in antioxidants, potassium, copper, manganese, iron, magnesium, folic acid, and fiber. These tiny red berries are one of the best fruits for dogs in their late years due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in many fruits and veggies, as well as other human food products, but toxic to animals in high doses. As with the other fruits on this list, make sure to feed them in moderate quantities because too many could cause stomach upset. Cranberries Cranberries are safe for canine consumption, but only in moderation to avoid GI issues. These nutritious berries are naturally acidic and a great fruit choice for dogs with urinary tract infections UTIs. However, never feed your pet store-bought mixtures of raisins and cranberries because raisins are highly toxic to dogs. Your dog would have to consume a significant number of pits in a relatively short time to be affected by the cyanide present in them. Oranges Many dogs like oranges and can safely eat them in moderation. Be sure to remove the peel, seeds and only feed the juicy orange flesh. Peaches Peaches in dogs provide an excellent source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. However, just like all stone fruits, remember to remove the pit before feeding a peach to dogs due to the possible intestinal blockage and traces of cyanide and. Also, avoid feeding dogs processed or canned peaches. These contain added sugars that can cause diarrhea and stomach upset. Pears Pears are full of contain fiber, copper, and immunity-boosting vitamin C, vitamin K, an essential aid to blood clotting. Remove the pear seeds before serving and steer clear of canned pears due to the high sugar content. Mangoes Dogs can eat mango , a tropical fruit packed with nutrients like carotenoids, fiber, and potassium, plus vitamins A, B6, C, and E. Mango pits present a severe choking hazard due to their size, so be sure to remove them, as well, before serving to pets. Pineapples Pineapples are a great source of vitamins C and B6, riboflavin, thiamin, niacin, and folate, making them a wonderful treat for dogs. However, they also contain a significant amount of sugar that can cause digestive issues like diarrhea. Only to serve the fleshy part of the fruit after removing the peel and crown. Coconut Coconut meat and coconut oil can be great for dogs. Both have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help with many conditions, including skin allergies, inflammatory bowel disease IBD , and arthritis. However, the triglycerides in coconut can be unsuitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs and those prone to pancreatitis. The fruit is also high in calories, so overweight dogs should choose alternative options. Kiwi Also known as Chinese gooseberry, this fruit is brimming with vitamin C, potassium, fiber, plus antioxidants that strengthen the immune system and protect against cancer. Eating kiwi can also contribute to a healthy digestive system and rejuvenate the skin. Cantaloupes Cantaloupes are an excellent source of vitamins A, B6, C, potassium, niacin, folate, and fiber. The seeds are harmless but be sure to remove the outer shell as it can cause digestive issues. Watermelon Watermelons are low in calories and rich in vitamins A, C, B6, as well as minerals like potassium. This juicy fruit is also an excellent way to help your stay pet hydrated during the summer due to its high water content. Be sure to remove the seeds and rind them before feeding watermelon to your pup. What fruits can dogs not eat? While many fruits are safe and even beneficial for our four-legged friends, others should be avoided. The list of fruits not suitable for dogs includes: Lemons and other citrus fruits The fleshy part of citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and grapefruits are quite acidic and can cause stomach upset. The peel of all citrus fruits presents a choking hazard and can also cause GI issues. Symptoms of persin toxicity include diarrhea and vomiting. If your dog accidentally ingests these parts of the avocado fruit, call your vet right away. Grapes and raisins Both grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs. Even if fed in small amounts, they can cause kidney failure in some dogs. If your dog consumes these fruits accidentally, call your vet immediately. Figs Figs are very high in fiber which can cause diarrhea in your dog. If you decide to feed figs, be sure to limit their intake to one or two per week. If your dog exhibits symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, or abdominal pain after ingesting parts or a fig plant, be sure to take them to the vet. First of all, ingesting whole dates together with the pits can result in bowel obstruction. Second, dates are quite high in sugar and dietary fiber, so consuming more than a few can cause diarrhea. Chances are, if your pup indulges in cherries, they will swallow them whole. Not only do the pits contain traces of cyanide, but they can also cause bowel obstruction. Plums Similar to dates and cherries, the main concern with plums is associated with the ingestion of the pit. Finally, if the pit is crushed, it can release cyanide, which is toxic to dogs. The flesh also contains high amounts of sugar and should be fed in small amounts. Hedgerow berries While some berries, such as strawberries and blueberries, are safe and even beneficial for dogs, others growing in the hedgerows should be avoided. Juniper, holly, elderberries, and rowan are all harmful or poisonous and therefore should not be offered to our canine friends. Dried fruits When fruits are dried, the water gets removed, and sugars get concentrated, making them unsuitable for dogs. In addition, store-bought dried fruits can contain chemical compounds that are potentially toxic to dogs. At best, your dog could suffer from vomiting and diarrhea, and, at worst, dried-fruit poisoning can result in kidney failure. Pro Tip: The value of pet insurance can be a lifesaver in case of food poisoning. When faced with expensive vet bills, dog owners who have insurance are better prepared to provide the best care for their dogs without worrying about how it will affect their finances. If a dog consumes grapefruit it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other issues. So, grapefruit is a NO. Grapes - NO As we mentioned at the beginning of this post, you should never let your dogs have grapes. Grapes are extremely toxic to dogs. This also includes raisins. If your dog eats any grapes, call your vet. Grape seed extract is actually beneficial to your pup, whereas grapes are extremely poisonous. The acidic nature of lemons can cause some seriously upset stomachs, vomiting, and other issues. BUT with that being said, small amounts of lemon juice is found in some treats and foods and is safe for your dog's consumption. BUT with that being said, small amounts of lime juice is found in some treats and foods and is safe for your dog's consumption. This sweet fruit is loved by most pups, just be sure to get rid of the hard pit as it can be a choking hazard and can contain some cyanide which is poisonous for dogs. Another thing to be aware of is the high sugar content in mangoes. Sugar can cause weight gain and potentially diabetes when consumed regularly. So the final word, mangoes are safe for dogs in moderation and be sure to not give your dog access to the pit. So, as long as you just give your pup the fruit and leave the pit out, you are safe to feed your dog nectarines. Orange peels can be difficult for dogs to digest and should be avoided. Some orange benefits are below. High in Vitamin C Potassium Fiber for digestion help Just remember to limit the quantities of oranges for your dog. And like always, monitor your pup when they start eating a new fruit or vegetable. Peach pits are a choking hazard and contain cyanide, which is poisonous for dogs. Also, be sure to steer clear of canned peaches as they typically contain extremely high amounts of sugary syrups. Small amounts of cut-up peaches have some great benefits for dogs. Here are some peach benefits. High in fiber to aid in digestion Rich in Vitamin A Most dogs love the taste of peaches, again, just be sure to remove the pit. Just like other fruits though, be sure to remove the seeds and pit as they contain cyanide which can be poisonous for dogs. Pears can be a great snack because of the following benefits. And a second reminder, remove all seeds and pits before giving your dog any pears. One of the main advantages of pineapple for dogs is bromelain, an enzyme that helps dogs to absorb protein. Pineapples can be a fantastic choice for a sweet treat for your pup. Again, practice moderation and monitor your pup when he or she first try pineapple. Plums are much more difficult to remove the pit and some people get lazy and try to give their dog plums with the pit still intact. This is a big no-no. So, play it safe and just stay away from plums for your pup. Raspberries have loads of benefits for your four-legged friend. Here are some good reasons to feed your dog raspberries again, in moderation. Strawberries - YES Dogs can eat strawberries in moderation. Strawberries contain lots of sugar, so be sure to not overfeed them to your pup. Nothing says summertime quite like strawberries, and most dogs love the taste of this sweet fruit. Some benefits include: Fiber for digestion Vitamin C Teeth whitening properties not like Crest White Strips, but still better than nothing! Go ahead and add strawberries to the list of fruits dogs can eat, just remember to practice moderation. Tomatoes - NO Although the red flesh of a ripe tomato is fine for dogs, the green parts are toxic. With that being said, we recommend playing it safe and just avoiding tomatoes all-together. If you have tomatoes in your garden, we recommend fencing it off or closely supervising your pup around these plants. Some signs of a dog ingesting the green parts of a tomato include: Upset stomach. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, calcium, phosphorus, and fiber. The vitamins are essential for maintaining healthy bones and tissue. They also help to keep teeth clean and freshen their breath. Your Lab will enjoy the sweet taste and the crunchy texture of apples. Remove the seeds as they contain a compound called amygdalin, and this gets broken down into toxic cyanide by food enzymes. However, your Labrador would have to eat many apple seeds to be poisoned. To give you an idea, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a person weighing 70kg would have to eat around 40 apple cores to receive a fatal dose, so a Labrador Retriever weighing 35kg would have to eat 20! Apricots Labradors can eat apricots. They are rich in vitamins A and C and contain potassium, copper, and beta-carotene, which can help fight against cancer. When chewed and digested, these parts produce cyanide and can be harmful if consumed substantially. Your Labrador can enjoy a few small bites now and again. Bananas Labradors can eat bananas. They are high in potassium which can support kidney and heart function. They are also high in vitamins B6 and C, biotin, fiber, magnesium, and copper. They do, however, contain a lot of sugar as they are a high carbohydrate food, so only feed them sparingly. Do not feed the peel as it may be too tough to digest. I like to give my dog a couple of small banana pieces when we hike, giving her a quick energy boost. Bananas can also be served mashed or frozen and then sliced. Blackberries Labradors can eat blackberries. They contain many valuable antioxidants that can prevent or slow down damage to cells and are loaded with vitamins A, B, C, E, and K and fiber. As they are lower in sugar than other fruits, they make an excellent choice for your Lab. I love blackberry picking in the summer, and these sweet juicy fruits are great to share with your Labrador. Frozen blackberries can also be a welcome treat in the warm weather to help cool your dog down. However, some dogs may not like their taste, yet others will enjoy them. Blueberries Labradors can eat blueberries. They are incredibly healthy and nutritious and are an excellent snack for dogs. Blueberries are a superfood due to their antioxidant properties that help prevent cell damage and cancer and reduce inflammation. They are a great source of vitamins C and K and fiber. Additionally, they contain phytochemicals. Scientists believe these compounds can help to fight cancer and heart disease. Monkoodog Coconut Labradors can eat coconut. It helps prevent viruses, reduces inflammation, and can even help to treat yeast infection. The natural oils lead to shinier fur and less dry skin. Make sure to remove the outer shell and husk, as these can be harmful if swallowed. Cranberries Labradors can eat cranberries. They are a superfood containing vitamins C, E, K, manganese, and fiber. They also have anti-inflammatory properties, and this study showed that antioxidant capacity was significantly increased in animal organs after being given cranberry juice. These little fruits help keep cancer at bay and boost the immune system. They have antibacterial properties to help to prevent and control urinary tract infections , as evidenced in this study. They can be given raw, cooked, or dried but avoid cranberry juice containing sugar. Cucumbers Labradors can eat cucumbers. They contain calcium, potassium, copper, magnesium, and biotin and are loaded with vitamins B1, C, and K. Their benefits include improving joints and connective tissue and strengthening bones. Although you are more likely to find cucumbers in the vegetable aisle in the grocery store, they are technically a fruit. They are also ideal for overweight dogs as they are low in calories and boost energy. Dates Labradors can eat dates. They are packed with many nutrients and provide several health benefits. Dates contain fiber, potassium, calcium, vitamins A, B, and C, and disease-fighting antioxidants. Despite the confusion, dates are the fruit of the date palm tree, and they are usually sold dried. The confusion lies in their similar appearance to raisins dried grapes , which are poisonous to dogs. They are, however, high in sugar, so you will need to consider this when feeding to avoid a stomach upset, but they can be good if your Lab needs a quick energy boost during lots of exercise or play. Make sure you remove the pit before feeding to avoid choking or buy ones with the pits already removed! Kiwi Fruit Labradors can eat kiwi fruit. They are a sweet fruit loaded with vitamin C, potassium, iron, and fiber, providing vast nutritional benefits. Their antioxidants help to protect against cancer and strengthen the immune system. It contains a high amount of insoluble fiber, which can cause a stomach upset. Never feed kiwi fruit whole, but cut it into slices. Too many of these fruits can cause a stomach upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. They also provide little or no nutritional benefit for your Labrador. Remember, too, that the digestive system of your Labrador is much more sensitive than humans! If your Labrador does brave it and snaffles a piece, make sure you have removed the peel first. Also, do not feed the pith the white parts or seeds, as all of these parts contain compounds called psoralens. These are toxic to dogs, especially if a large enough quantity is consumed. There are far better choices to choose from. Mango Labradors can eat mango. Slices of mango make a sweet, nutritious treat that contains vitamins A, B6, C, and E. They are also full of fiber. But they do have a lot of sugar, so feed them sparingly, as too much mango can cause vomiting and diarrhea. You should remove the skin as your Lab will find it difficult to digest. The hard pit is a choking hazard, so make sure this is also removed. Serve by cutting it into bite-sized chunks, and you can also feed it frozen. Its high antioxidant properties are good for promoting healthy cell function and reducing the risk of cancer and arthritis. Cantaloupe and honeydew melon are low in calories and high in water content. Small pieces are tasty and refreshing for your Labrador, especially on hot days. Melon does, however, have high sugar content, so only feed in moderation. My dog loves a chunk of melon, especially in the summer. They are good sources of beta-carotene that the body converts to vitamin A, which helps maintain healthy skin, teeth, and bones. The fleshy parts are okay for your Lab to eat but avoid the stone to prevent poisoning, choking, or GI blockage. These stone fruits also contain lots of fiber for healthy digestion and potassium — good for heart and kidney disorders. They are also full of antioxidants to ward off cancer and boost overall health and the immune system. These fruits are pretty sugary, so you must consider that if you wish to feed them to your Lab. Olives Labradors can eat olives. They are perfectly safe for dogs to eat. Nutritionally, they contain many vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and good fats. A couple of plain, unsalted olives can be a healthy snack for your Lab. But here is the caveat. You will need to remove the pits to prevent choking, blockages, or cracked teeth! Dental costs are expensive — and the pits contain toxic compounds. However, your Labrador would have to ingest many of these to suffer severe poisoning. They also contain fiber and potassium. But there are some warnings. Like other citrus fruits, your Labrador may not like the acidic zing of oranges! However, if you find you have a citrus-loving pooch, only give a tiny amount due to their high sugar content and tartness. Too much sugar and citric acid can cause an upset stomach. You must only feed the flesh part of the orange as the leathery peel is hard for your Lab to digest. Also, the seeds and the white pith contain toxic compounds, so avoid these. My dog turns her head away after the slightest sniff. Pears Labradors can eat pears. They are high in potassium, vitamins A, C, and K, and are loaded with fiber. Vitamin K is known for increasing bone density. Pears are believed to reduce the risk of strokes and have anti-cancer properties due to their antioxidants. Pears contain a high amount of sugar so feed sparingly, especially if your Labrador needs to lose a few pounds. However, a few slices can be a healthy and nutritious treat throughout the week. Like apples, the core and seeds will need to be removed first. Persimmons Labradors can eat persimmons. They include a large amount of vitamins A and C. They also contain many other nutrients, such as antioxidants, fiber, potassium, manganese, folic acid, and beta-carotene. The benefits of persimmons are that they can improve overall health and help to combat cancer. They can also reduce inflammation and help with constipation due to their high amount of fiber. Take precautions with the seeds, as these can trigger a stomach upset, so you need to remove them before feeding. It also contains bromelain, an enzyme that provides anti-inflammatory properties. If you wish to try your dog with a small piece, remove the prickly peel and crown first. Pineapple is also quite sugary, so only feed sparingly unless your Lab has quite a taste for this fruit and needs a quick energy boost during a long walk! Frozen chunks of pineapple make an excellent snack in the summer and will help to keep your Lab hydrated. Avoid canned pineapple as it contains lots of added sugar. Raspberries Raspberries are excellent for Labradors to eat as they are low in sugar and calories and contain lots of vitamin C, fiber, folic acid, iron, potassium, manganese, copper, and magnesium. They have anti-inflammatory properties that can help the joints and are perfect for senior dogs or those with mobility issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Raspberries contain a tiny amount of xylitol. This natural sweetener can cause death due to its toxicity if consumed in large amounts. To put this into context, a 10kg dog would have to eat at least 32 cups of raspberries to prove fatal. My dog loves raspberries, and she enjoys them frozen when the weather is warm. Strawberries Labradors can eat strawberries. They are full of fiber, vitamins C, B1, B6, and K, folic acid, potassium, iodine, and magnesium. Strawberries are high in antioxidants. They can help slow down the aging process, strengthen the immune system, and help with weight management. Despite their sweetness, they are surprisingly low in sugar and calories. Strawberries are a delicious fruit to eat. My dog adores them all year round. Watermelon Labradors can eat watermelon as they are full of vitamins A, B6, and C and fiber to aid digestion. They also contain potassium, which helps lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease and strokes. Everyone loves a nice refreshing piece of watermelon in the hot weather, including my dog. Serve by cutting it into cubes. Should Labradors Eat Fruit? Almost everything we eat plays a part in keeping us functioning like a well-oiled machine. But what about our pets? Labradors can eat fruit. They provide additional nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Fruit can be a big health boost for your dog and help reduce the risk of developing many chronic diseases, including cancer. Fruit helps to strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, improve skin, hair, and eyesight, and help with digestion. Fruits are low in calories and fat and make an excellent choice if your Labrador struggles with obesity and needs to lose weight. As pet treats can be high in calories, fruits can provide a healthier alternative. Labradors can eat fruit as dogs have adapted to an omnivorous diet through the domestication process. Dogs also have molars used to grind and crush plant matter, such as fruits and vegetables. In other words, Labs can eat both animal and plant foods and remain perfectly healthy. It has loads of info on nutrition, types of diet, how much to feed, etc. How to Feed Fruit to Your Labrador Here are some guidelines on how to feed fruit to your Labrador: Introduce fruit slowly to avoid any tummy troubles! Wash the fruit first to eliminate any dirt, bacteria, or remaining pesticides. Remove any pits, seeds, or rind. These hazards include poisoning, choking, gastrointestinal blockage, stomach upset, or cracked teeth! Offer small bite-sized pieces or slices to prevent choking. Fruits can be mashed or pureed. Frozen fruits are excellent in the summer and help to keep your dog cool. Be wary of canned fruit as many contain sugary syrup. Avoid fruit juice due to its high sugar content and acidity. You should only feed fruits to your Labrador in moderation. Recommended Portion Sizes Below are the recommended fruit portion sizes when feeding your Lab. Tweet on Twitter When I was a kid, we always gave our apple cores to the dog. He loved them. But can dogs eat apples without any ill effects or or were we taking a risk? Similarly, if your dog likes fruit you may be wondering if you should be feeding him apples, grapes, berries or any of the other common fruits we find in our homes. Can dogs eat apples? Apples contain a number of vitamins including vitamin C. They also contain some dietary fibre, and some minerals, including phosphorus and calcium Most experts agree that the flesh of the apple is safe for dogs to eat. And many recommend giving dogs apple slices as a healthy snack. You can also freeze apple slices or pulp to give dogs a refreshing treat in hot weather or use apples in recipes for baked dog treats. Can dogs eat apples whole? Or the cores specifically? In retrospect the apple cores I used to give to our Golden Retriever when I was a child were probably not such a good idea. Apple seeds actually contain a compound that is toxic. And although a large dog would probably need to eat quite a few of them to do himself any serious harm, apple seeds are not good for dogs. There is also the concern that an apple core is a potential choking hazard—especially in smaller breeds So it may be better to put your apple core in the trash or better yet in your compost pile, than feed it to your dog. Can dogs eat apples — skin and peel? However, the skin can irritate the stomach of some dogs and trigger vomiting. So if your dog is relaxing on your favorite carpet, you might want to bear that in mind! It is also worth remembering that apples contain a lot of natural sugars, which dogs do not need to eat at all. These can harm their teeth if consumed in excess. So the question is not just can dogs eat apples, but should they! Moderation, when giving this sweet treat, is definitely a good idea. Can dogs eat grapes? The second fruit on our list is a very different story. Eating grapes can cause kidney failure in dogs. One study suggests as little as .This is made even more complicated because, not all dogs will be visibly affected. The mechanism by which grapes poison dogs is still being researched. Still it is not known why some dogs may be fatally poisoned by only a small quantity of grapes, while others can eat quite a few without any ill effects. This is a common occurrence when we discuss foods that are potentially toxic to dogs. But it is never worth the risk to your dog, as levels of toxicity cannot be gauged off-hand. Can dogs eat raisins? Raisins are a type of dehydrated grape and the same rules apply. Raisins can be very attractive to dogs because the sugar in them is so concentrated but they are equally as dangerous if not more so. Special precautions should be taken when giving your dog one of the many baked products made for humans that may contain raisins. Ensure you are certain of the ingredients in baked products before you share them with your dog. What to do if your dog eats grapes or raisins Dogs affected by grapes may vomit and become very thirsty. If your dog accidentally ingests grapes, telephone your vet straight away and ask for advice. If your dog has not already begun vomiting, your vet may want you to induce vomiting before the dog is brought into the office Do not induce vomiting without first checking with a veterinary health professional. Can dogs eat oranges? Oranges can be consumed by most dogs in small quantities without any ill effects. Large amounts may give your dog diarrhea. Again, these fruits are high in sugar so moderation is key. Can dogs eat lemons Lemons are citrus fruits like oranges and the same rules apply. Can dogs eat peaches and plums? The flesh of fruit with pits or stones in the center is another tasty favorite of some dogs. Many wild carnivores love these fleshy fruits especially when they are over-ripe. However, while these fruits are a rich source of vitamins, you should never give your dog the whole fruit or the pits of plums or peaches. Not only are they toxic, they could choke your dog or cause an intestinal blockage. Can dogs eat bananas? Bananas are deliciously sweet and many animals love them. Dogs are no exception. Dogs can eat bananas without issue, but remember that the sweet taste is a reminder of how sugary they are. Can dogs have blueberries? Blueberries are safe for dogs to eat either fresh or frozen. They are high in antioxidants which help to fight free radicals. Free radicals are substances that cause damage to cells and may be implicated in the development of cancer. This means that blueberries are often recommended as a treat for dogs of all breeds. Blueberries should also be considered for very active dogs or members of the working class breeds of dogs. This is because the oxidative muscle damage caused by these free radicals is most intense during high activity and exercise. Can dogs eat cranberries? Cranberries have long been associated with bladder health in humans. This may help reduce the occurrence of urinary tract infections. With plenty of fruity alternatives, giving cranberries a miss is probably a good idea Can dogs eat pears? Pears are another great treat for fruit-loving pooch! They are chock full of Vitamins C and A, and are a healthy source of dietary fiber. Pear seeds are toxic and can cause harm in large quantities, and the core does pose a choking hazard. Can dogs eat tomatoes? Yes, tomatoes are actually fruit, and they are safe for dog consumption —when ripe. The stems, leaves and green fruit of a tomato plant contain high amounts of a substance called tomatine that could be harmful in large quantities. This concentration is far lower in ripe fruits, and as such can be fed to your dog in moderate quantities. But remember tomatoes do have a high acid content and should not be fed to dogs with sensitive stomachs or a history of digestive concerns. When is fruit good for dogs? If you are struggling to get a thin, elderly dog to eat then supplementing with their favorite fruit may be a good incentive. Also, if you are trying to give a particularly savvy pup medication, hiding it in fruit may be a good trick to keep in your arsenal. In either case just be sure not to give the dog so much that it upsets his stomach. Fruit can also be a good way of getting nutrients into a dog on special low fat diet. Keep in mind though, that while we tend to think of low-fat foods like apples as being healthy for most healthy dogs, certain foods that are high in sugar are not a necessary or even valuable part of their diet. And can contribute to obesity. If you want to put weight on a thin dog, feeding his usual food more frequently will usually enable you to increase overall quantities without upsetting his tum with added dietary variety. Remember when feeding your dog fruit: Wash all fruit before feeding it to your dog Remove all flesh from cores, pits and stones Sharing prepared foods with your pet should be done at a minimum however if you choose to do so ensure there are no hidden, ingredients that may be toxic to your pup Even if a fruit is deemed safe for your dog, test with a small piece and monitor your dog for any sensitivities Peel waxy fruits as the skin may cause stomach irritation Never give your dog whole fruit! Summary — What fruits can dogs eat? Fruit is not an essential part of any dogs diet. In moderation it is fine to give your dog the occasional slice of apple, pear, peach, ripe tomatoes or plum. You can also use the flesh of these fruits when baking your favorite home cooked dog biscuits. You can give your dog a piece of banana or a slice of orange or lemon if he enjoys them. And finally, before you leap for the fruit bowl, remember that fruit is high in sugar and should only be fed as an occasional treat, not in large quantities. How about your dog? Does your dog have a favorite fruity snack? Tell us about him in the comments below! Eubig, Melinda S. Brady, Sharon M. Khan, Elisa M. Mazzaferro, Carla M.

Sometime, a German Shepherds puppy has a slights overbite at 8 weeks, when the teeth are not in a tight scissors bite, as they should per breed standard. As the puppy continued developing, this slight overbite usually resolves itself, as puppy gets through teething stage and has their adult teeth. Because overbite is a fault, breeders should never use dogs with any less-than-perfect teeth in breeding. Luckily for us, humans, an orthodontic treatment exists and even those of us with the most un-perfect smiles, still able to reproduce. Dogs in a show world aren't that lucky. We have never seen an under-bite in this breed. While to many pet owners slight overbite might not seem like a serious condition, but a cosmetic defect, it is very important that your puppy's teeth are aligned as close as possible. Severely misaligned teeth can lead to difficulty eating, gum injuries and bruising, bad breath and different types of dental problems, including tooth decay and gingivitis. Fortunately, there are ways to help fix the problem before it becomes irreversible. An overbite is a genetic, hereditary condition where a dog's lower jaw is significantly shorter than its upper jaw. This can also be called an overshot jaw, overjet, parrot mouth, class 2 malocclusion or mandibular brachynathism, but the result is the same — the dog's teeth aren't aligning properly. In time, the teeth can become improperly locked together as the dog bites, creating even more severe crookedness as the jaw cannot grow appropriately. This problem is especially common in breeds with narrow, pointed muzzles, such as collies, shelties, dachshunds, German shepherds, Russian wolfhounds and any crossbred dogs that include these ancestries. Treating an Overbite Dental examinations for puppies are the first step toward minimizing the discomfort and effects of an overbite. Puppies can begin to show signs of an overbite as early as weeks old, and by the time a puppy is 10 months old, its jaw alignment will be permanently set and any overbite treatment will be much more challenging. This is a relatively narrow window to detect and correct overbites, but it is not impossible. Small overbites often correct themselves as the puppy matures, and brushing the dog's teeth regularly to prevent buildup can help keep the overbite from becoming more severe. If the dog is showing signs of an overbite, it is best to avoid any tug-of-war games that can put additional strain and stress on the jaw and could exacerbate the deformation. If an overbite is more severe, dental intervention may be necessary to correct the misalignment. While this is not necessary for cosmetic reasons — a small overbite may look unsightly, but does not affect the dog and invasive corrective procedures would be more stressful than beneficial — in severe cases, a veterinarian may recommend intervention. There are spacers, braces and other orthodontic accessories that can be applied to a dog's teeth to help correct an overbite. Because dogs' mouths grow more quickly than humans, these accessories may only be needed for a few weeks or months, though in extreme cases they may be necessary for up to two years. If the dog is young enough, however, tooth extraction is generally preferred to correct an overbite. Puppies have baby teeth, and if those teeth are misaligned, removing them can loosen the jaw and provide space for it to grow properly and realign itself before the adult teeth come in. Proper extraction will not harm those adult teeth, but the puppy's mouth will be tender after the procedure and because they will have fewer teeth for several weeks or months until their adult teeth have emerged, some dietary changes and softer foods may be necessary. An overbite might be disconcerting for both you and your dog, but with proper care and treatment, it can be minimized or completely corrected and your dog's dental health will be preserved. Basset Hounds Is your basset hound showing symptoms of an overbite? Perhaps he has the condition already, thanks to his long and narrow nose. As a matter of fact, this breed tends to suffer from dental issues of all kinds. It starts with the build-up of tartar before a full-on infection takes over the entire mouth. Whippet Nothing makes a whippet happier than taking off at full speeds or just curling next to you in bed. He can chase any moving thing out of instinct and his desire to flex his muscles. Taking care of him is easy, thanks to his short coat. As long as you provide a warm surface to relax and sleep in, your Fido will be happy. However, when owning one, always be cognizant of the fact that he can suffer an overbite. He is one of the dog breeds with a predisposition. Afghan Hound The Afghan hound is rather rare among the hound family dogs. He is very sweet, sensitive, gentle, and quiet. His temper is even and his disposition gentle. His agile, muscular, and strong body makes him a great hunter. If you are looking for a good hunter and companion, look no further than the Afghan. Sadly, he tends to suffer from dental abnormalities especially overbites. His long muzzle plays a huge part in this. Fortunately, the issue can be done away with medically. Greyhound Greyhounds are low-maintenance and docile but they have challenges of their own. With their signature Roman nose, this breed is at high risk for an overbite. Thankfully, he is not bred for looks but rather for speed. This is why you will find differently-colored dogs on the race. Borzoi Just by looking at the Borzoi, you can easily tell that he is prone to an overbite. He looks like the typical greyhound wrapped in a long, silky coat. We are talking about slender legs, a narrow body, tucked abdomen, and a long narrow muzzle. Because of the shape of the nose, his jaws can easily overlap. As a racing dog, the overbite may not disqualify from participating in dog races. However, it can cause the dog to be a picky eater or worse, lead to mouth injuries. Saluki Skinny and fast as the wind, the Saluki is a real supermodel. This breed is affectionate, easy to groom, and very active. As long as you have a big yard he can run around in, he will be a very happy and content dog. His shape looks like that of a whippet or Greyhound with a long and narrow muzzle. That means one thing: he is predisposed to overbites. An overbite is a medical condition with treatment options. If caught early, the problem can be dealt with. As a matter of fact, some cases self-correct as the puppy grows. Typically, you will see symptoms of alignment anytime from 8 to 12 weeks of age. Although some will go away on their own, it is always a good idea to visit the pet. After 10 months, the overbite is permanent and medical help becomes a challenge. Speaking of medical help, the vet can recommend tooth extraction or use a number of orthodontic accessories to take care of the misalignment. Final Thoughts Overbites in dogs can be troubling. They compromise the look of the dog but most importantly affect his dental health negatively. To make sure your dog lives a rich life, be sure to have the vet examine an overbite as early as possible. Related Posts:. Tweet on Twitter An overbite might not seem like a serious condition for your dog, but severely misaligned teeth can lead to difficulty eating, gum injuries and bruising, bad breath and different types of dental problems, including tooth decay and gingivitis. Fortunately, there are ways to help fix the problem before it becomes irreversible. What Is an Overbite? An overbite is a genetic, hereditary condition where a dog's lower jaw is significantly shorter than its upper jaw. This can also be called an overshot jaw, overjet, parrot mouth, class 2 malocclusion or mandibular brachynathism, but the result is the same — the dog's teeth aren't aligning properly. In time, the teeth can become improperly locked together as the dog bites, creating even more severe crookedness as the jaw cannot grow appropriately. This problem is especially common in breeds with narrow, pointed muzzles, such as collies, shelties, dachshunds, German shepherds, Russian wolfhounds and any crossbred dogs that include these ancestries. Treating an Overbite Dental examinations for puppies are the first step toward minimizing the discomfort and effects of an overbite. Puppies can begin to show signs of an overbite as early as weeks old, and by the time a puppy is 10 months old, its jaw alignment will be permanently set and any overbite treatment will be much more challenging. This is a relatively narrow window to detect and correct overbites, but it is not impossible. Small overbites often correct themselves as the puppy matures, and brushing the dog's teeth regularly to prevent buildup can help keep the overbite from becoming more severe. If the dog is showing signs of an overbite, it is best to avoid any tug-of-war games that can put additional strain and stress on the jaw and could exacerbate the deformation. If an overbite is more severe, dental intervention may be necessary to correct the misalignment. While this is not necessary for cosmetic reasons — a small overbite may look unsightly, but does not affect the dog and invasive corrective procedures would be more stressful than beneficial — in severe cases, a veterinarian may recommend intervention. There are spacers, braces and other orthodontic accessories that can be applied to a dog's teeth to help correct an overbite. Because dogs' mouths grow more quickly than humans, these accessories may only be needed for a few weeks or months, though in extreme cases they may be necessary for up to two years. If the dog is young enough, however, tooth extraction is generally preferred to correct an overbite. Puppies have baby teeth, and if those teeth are misaligned, removing them can loosen the jaw and provide space for it to grow properly and realign itself before the adult teeth come in. Proper extraction will not harm those adult teeth, but the puppy's mouth will be tender after the procedure and because they will have fewer teeth for several weeks or months until their adult teeth have emerged, some dietary changes and softer foods may be necessary. An overbite might be disconcerting for both you and your dog, but with proper care and treatment, it can be minimized or completely corrected and your dog's dental health will be preserved.

Fact checked by Emily Estep Emily Estep is a biologist and fact checker focused on environmental sciences. Emily has been a proofreader and editor at a variety of online media outlets over the past decade and has reviewed more than articles for The Spruce Pets for factual accuracy. All growing puppies need proper nutrition. However, choosing the right diet for your puppy can be an overwhelming task. When you choose to feed your puppy home-prepared food, it takes a certain amount of commitment on your part. Make sure you have the time to prepare the food properly and on a regular basis. There's a lot you need to know before you can start feeding your dog an appropriate homemade diet. Like humans, dogs have specific caloric requirements and need certain vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. Puppies have even more specific needs in order to grow at an appropriate rate and thrive. The food you feed your puppy must be complete and balanced. It must also be designed to support growth. One of the biggest mistakes pet owners make when they decide to feed home-prepared diets is not following the right recipes or, not following a recipe at all. Preparing the right puppy diet is about more than just feeding enough calories. It must also have the proper balance of protein, fat, and calories for a growing puppy. When you begin to develop a home-prepared diet, make sure your puppy gets everything it needs in its diet to keep it as healthy as possible and help it grow. The best way to do this is to consult with your veterinarian. You might even want to ask for a referral to a veterinary nutritionist. Working with a vet, you can design a diet that meets all of your puppy's nutritional needs. Your vet may have recipes for you to use or may guide you to a website like BalanceIT. These websites have recipes developed by veterinary nutritionists. They can help you choose a diet that is complete and balanced but also meets other needs. In many cases, you can choose your preferred ingredients or find formulas designed for puppies with specific needs like large breeds or health issues like allergies. How to Prepare Homemade Puppy Food In general, puppies need about twice as many calories per day than their adult counterparts. According to the Committee on Nutrient Requirements of Cats and Dogs of the National Academy of Science, a pound puppy that is expected to weigh 33 pounds at adulthood needs to eat about calories per day. In addition, puppies need more protein, fat, vitamins and minerals than adult dogs. Many owners who feed home-prepared diets set up a regular schedule , setting aside time weekly or monthly to prepare and portion the diet. The food can be prepared in bulk and portioned into containers one container per meal makes it extra-easy. You can keep meals frozen for several months or refrigerated for about 5 days. When the supply of pre-prepared meals runs low, it's time to make a new batch. If you like to feed a variety of foods, you can make multiple batches and color code by ingredients, rotating out the different meals. Remember to increase portions appropriately as your puppy grows. Raw Diets for Puppies There's no doubt that home-cooked diets for puppies can be healthy when done correctly, but what about raw food? There is much controversy over raw food for dogs. The AVMA and other agencies warn of the risks of dangerous pathogens in raw pet food. Some other experts see the potential benefits of raw food for healthy adult dogs. However, puppies are a different story. Raw food may contain dangerous pathogens that can lead to illness in people and some dogs. Like children, young animals may not have the immune systems to fight off pathogens found in raw food. If you feel you can safely handle raw food and you are willing to assume the risks, talk to your veterinarian about transitioning to raw food when your puppy gets older. In the beginning, you might choose to offer a combination of cooked and raw foods to see how it works out. Raw diets should never be fed to dogs coming into contact with immunocompromised humans. In addition, raw diets are not recommended for dogs with immune system issues. Brush a dog biscuit baking tray with coconut oil. Mash the ripe banana in a bowl until smooth. Ensure there are no large chunks left. In a medium-sized bowl, blend the gluten-free flour and oats. Add coconut oil, water, mashed banana, unsweetened applesauce, and fresh blueberries. Mix until well combined. Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Stir until you get an even consistency. Drizzle in the CBD oil and give it another stir to ensure even distribution. Use a tablespoon measure to scoop out portions of the mixture. Press each scoop firmly into the dog treat baking mold. Place the tray in the oven and bake the treats for 30 to 40 minutes. They should be firm to the touch and slightly golden when ready. Once the treats have cooled, transfer them to an airtight container for storage. This easy-to-make recipe ensures your Labrador Retriever gets a nourishing and delightful meal. This batch yields approximately four servings, which can be stored in your refrigerator. Ingredients 1 lb. Cut the chicken into half-inch pieces. In a frying pan with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, cook the chicken on medium heat for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken pieces and set aside the pan drippings. Rice preparation. Once done, set aside. Gravy creation. Over medium to low heat, warm the chicken drippings in the pan. Gently stir until it becomes a smooth mixture. Continue cooking until it evolves into a thick gravy consistency. Combining ingredients. Add the cooked chicken, rice, peas, and carrots to the gravy. Simmer the mixture for approximately 10 minutes or until the veggies are tender. This enhanced dog food recipe combines the richness of turkey with the nourishment of vegetables and quinoa — a superfood known for its protein and fiber content. Ingredients 1 pound of ground turkey 1 cup of quinoa 1 cup of carrots, finely chopped 1 cup of green beans, finely chopped 1 cup of spinach, finely chopped 1 tablespoon of fish oil A sprinkle of turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits, optional Directions Cooking the turkey. Over medium heat, cook the ground turkey in a non-stick skillet until fully done. Preparing the feast. Combine the quinoa, cooked turkey, and water in a large pot. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the quinoa becomes soft and translucent. Adding vegetables. Introduce the carrots, green beans, and spinach to the pot. Allow the mixture to cook for another 10 minutes, ensuring the vegetables are tender but not overly soft. Finishing touches. Let the meal cool to room temperature before serving. Extra portions can be refrigerated and consumed within five days. Adding eggs and beneficial herbs ensures your Labrador Retriever gets essential vitamins and nutrients. Begin by boiling the eggs until they are hard-boiled. Once done, peel and finely chop them. Beef cooking. Once done, drain off any excess fat. In a large mixing bowl or container, combine the cooked brown rice, browned sirloin, chopped eggs, diced or shredded carrots, peas or green beans, minced parsley, and the optional sprinkle of turmeric. Drizzle with olive or safflower oil. Stir together. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently mix all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed and well combined. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want more homemade dog food recipes and cooking options for your Labrador Retriever, cookbooks can be useful for various recipes. Maintaining a healthy weight is easier when your Labrador Retriever is fed the right dog food. However, identifying a healthy gut is not an easy task. Skin or coat issues, excessive tiredness, allergies, weight loss, malnutrition, and obesity can be caused by unbalanced and insufficient meal plans. If you detect any of these symptoms while feeding your dog meals, stop doing it immediately and seek expert advice. Below is a list of the most common toxic ingredients dogs need to avoid. Tweet on Twitter Many dog owners are discovering that homemade dog food recipes are the way to go for their pooch. Besides being a possible money-saving option, healthy homemade dog food is a choice that is easier than you may think, as well as being a great-tasting alternative to commercial dog food. The best homemade dog food recipe is made with one ingredient that no commercial brand can match: your tender loving care! Have we got you thinking about how to make homemade dog food yet? Healthy dog food recipes Whipping up balanced homemade dog food recipes in your own kitchen can be a satisfying and rewarding experience for both you and your beloved pooch. And what could be better than having an eager, experienced taste-tester at your elbow? Are you interested in raw dog food recipes? Dog food recipes with chicken? How about easy dog food recipes? Believe it or not, developing an organic dog food recipe is no harder than making homemade dog food for allergies , or assembling natural dog food recipes. Making homemade dog food While using cooked dog food recipes or raw dog food diet recipes is not overly difficult, it is a process that requires a bit more exertion than flipping back a canned food tab or ripping into a pound bag of kibble. Pet nutritionist Cailin Heinze, VMD, endorses the practice of deploying balanced home cooked dog food recipes, but cautions that dedication to the process is a key component. Best homemade dog food recipe Canines are omnivores, meaning they are able to eat meat, vegetables, and grains. Dogs require a formulation that is high in protein and fat in order to meet their nutritional needs. To learn more about low fat canine diets, we recommend reading this excellent and informative article. Which is why you may want to consider homemade senior dog food recipes and homemade dog food recipes for skin allergies. No one knows your dog better than you; you have the inside track when it comes to knowing which best dog food recipes will appeal to your pooch. Will it be natural homemade dog food, simple dog food recipes, or homemade raw dog food? When it comes to dog nutrition homemade food may be a big plus. Make your own dog food recipes At the beginning of your homemade dog food journey we recommend that owners stick to canine diets endorsed by animal care professionals or veterinarians. How do you know this is the case for the recipes you use? For those of you who would like to sample raw homemade dog food recipes, stay tuned. Both of these recipes from the American Kennel Club are animal expert-approved, high protein options: Mini Omelette Recipe for Dogs: This omelet recipe calls for 2 eggs plus ingredients, which may be enough to satisfy one pup. Eggs should be cooked for at least 10 minutes at F 82 C. Frozen Meat Treats Recipe for Dogs: This frozen meat treat recipe is especially convenient as you can pop one out of the freezer any time to serve as a refreshing snack, or to reward an especially good dog! Not only is the recipe a nutritionally complete homemade dog food, there are different, convenient versions for pooches of varying sizes. So, if you have a small dog, use the recipe for a 15 pound pooch. Likewise, there are balanced dog food recipes for 30 and 60 pound pooches. The recipes take the guesswork out of portion sizing, although you can choose to make enough to serve leftovers the following day. Keep in mind that switching out or changing up a recipes ingredients can result in an unintended outcome. In addition, your vet may want to examine your pup, including skin, body condition and coat, in a few more weeks to insure that there are no possible diet-related issues to be concerned about. Homemade allergen-free recipes The most common canine food allergens are eggs, corn, beef, chicken, wheat, soy, and milk, according to the Merck Vet Manual. While it can be difficult to find a recipe that lacks all of these ingredients, Paula Terifaj D. Raw dog food recipes Feeding your pooch a raw dog food diet can replicate the diet of dogs in the wild and has become popular in recent years. There are two main types of raw canine dog food models, the BARF diet biologically appropriate raw food proposed in by Australian veterinarian Ian Billinghurst, and the RMB diet raw meaty bones diet. You can also buy prepackaged raw dog food in most pet stores and in some supermarkets. For more details about feeding your dog a raw food diet, be sure to read this excellent and informative article. The wide-ranging article covers the risks and rewards of feeding your pooch raw food, and honestly addresses the debate surrounding the practice. Homemade dog food portions Many recipes use specific measurements and amounts for their ingredients. A food scale is much more accurate for measuring meat portion volumes than regular household measuring cups. You can buy a food scale at your local pet store or at any big box store. Dessert always comes after dinner What could be better than a hearty, healthy homemade meal? A delicious homemade dessert to top it off! Here is a fun and pleasing snack recipe from the American Kennel Association that is sure to delight any doggy diner. Although these everyday substances are fine for human consumption, they have the potential to make your pooch sick, or worse result in serious illness. According to Dr. There is really nothing better than a meal made with love, something that your dog will now be able to attest to, or bark at. Do you have a favorite canine breakfast, lunch or dinner recipe? How about a doggie snack or treat recipe? Small Pets Indian Homemade Food that can be given to Labradors and Golden Retriever Dog Breeds Pet dogs are so very aligned as first of the kin in most dog loving Indian homes that it is impossible not to share the human food tid bits with them. The pleading gaze of big brown eyes are hard to avoid and it seems almost cruel at that time to not share our food. But there is always an apprehension regarding the suitability of the human food for our dogs and puppies. Premium commercial dog food brands like Royal Canin , Hills Science plan and Solid Gold Dog Food offer complete and balanced nutrition to assure fulfillment of all basic needs of the pet. In respect to the safety and health of the dogs , you would be glad to know that there are plenty of human foods which the dog can eat to acquire protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. So one does need to walk consciously, but anddo understand that most things which are healthy for you may not be as healthy or even fatal for our four-legged companion. Boiled or scrambled egg, chicken, fish, mutton, beef, pork are all commonly eaten at home and are good sources of protein and fats. Chicken is being a popular dish in most non-vegetarian Indian kitchens is often shared with the home grown and stray dogs, pl ensure to avoid any dinner table offering that entails onion, garlic, excess oil and spices. Even cooked chicken bones are not recommended as it is brittle and may cause oral injuries and in some cases even fatal obstructions in the intestines of dogs that will be required to remove surgically. Grains and Pulses Whole grains like brown rice, wheat, oats, barley, millet and quinoa and pulses supply various important nutrients to the dog. A blend of brown rice and mashed boiled vegetables constitutes an easy and good healthy meal for your furry friend. Some of the dogs can be allergic to wheat; for rest of the doggie population it can be safely eaten in the form of chapatti Indian wheat bread and whole wheat pasta without salt, sugar and acidic sauces. Soybeans also go well with dogs, provided your dog is not sensitive to it. Whole wheat or brown breads can be fed in small quantities. Do not feed these 10 foods to your dog. Storehouse of important vitamins, minerals and fibres, fruits and vegetables are naturally low in calories. They not only make one healthy and energized but also cut the risks of several diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease and certain cancers. Though low in calories, any fruit or vegetable carry the risk of upsetting the stomach in case of excessive intake. Fruits Fruits are a great power snack to quench in-between meal time hunger. Banana, oranges without rinds , watermelon, muskmelon, berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries , mango are great fruits for dogs. Serving a blend of fruits to the dog, cut into chewable pieces, mixing various flavours, will make fruits more interesting for the dogs. While feeding an apple, just take a very good care to remove all the seeds as they are poisonous for the dog. Certain seeds, like apple seeds contain cyanide which may not be harmful for us because of the small dose of toxins. But the same dose can prove poisonous to our dogs. Grapes and raisins are a complete No-No for the dogs; they can cause irreversible kidney damage — just keep the dogs away from them. Vegetables Boiled, cooked, peeled, raw or as scraps — vegetables are good for your dog. The fresh and crunchy vegetables like carrots, broccoli, cucumbers and spinach are good for health and do a lot of good to the teeth of the dog as well. Sweet potatoes, green beans, pumpkin, bottle guard, peas, tomatoes compulsorily ripe and potatoes boiled or mashed are also much loved veggies. Onions are not be ingested by the dogs in any form raw, cooked, dried, powered as it can damage the red blood cells of the canine. Garlic is also capable of harming the red blood cells of the dog; some people argue that garlic in small quantities act as natural antibiotic. Raw veggies can be eaten by dog but when it comes to relatively greater quantity, the vegetables should be boiled and then mashed or cut into chewable pieces. Treats In small amounts, our canine partners can enjoy cottage cheese, peanut butter, popcorns sans salt and butter , sunflower seeds shelled and plain white yogurt. More natural and plain a treat is — minimum sugar, salts, preservatives — more will they suit the health of your dog. BUT do remember that chocolate, coffee, macadamia nuts, raisins are toxic for your pet. Be very careful with them. Certain dogs, just like humans, can be lactose intolerant; apart from them, milk, in moderate quantities, can be safely digested by all dogs. Cottage cheese is loved by most dogs. Curd and buttermilk are also good sources of prebiotics and calcium. It is recommended that before you offer a new food item to your pet you should consult your vet. Allergies and reactions to particular food stuffs would vary from dog to dog, so it is a good habit to observe your dog each time you feed it a new eatable. Care should be taken to avoid artificial sugar and have minimal salts pinch of salt a day would suffice. About Shikha Sharma Shikha Sharma believes that Mother Earth is our mutual abode, where all creatures have an equal right to live with dignity. This belief is clearly reflected in her wonderful writing pieces that revolve around animals and their well-being. She is the blog editor of Pets World. More like this.

More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Lab can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: The ten reasons that I am giving for children to have a dog are not listed in order of importance. All of us have different characteristics which we find more important than others. Every reason I list, however, is important to the childhood of your son or daughter. Dogs can help children grow stronger. Just by being a part of the family, dogs can help contribute to keeping your children healthier. According to Science Daily, kids who grow up with dogs have fewer allergies and are less likely to have eczema than other children. They grow up with higher levels of certain immune system supporters that keep them in better shape as they get older. School systems report that children from homes with dogs also have fewer sick days during the school year. Another benefit in this area of physical strength is that kids who play with dogs can take falling down and rough and tumble play much better. Be sure to read the rest of her seven part article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Lab owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-date puppy information at .The apricot was brought to New Mexico by Spanish settlers, possibly as early as .As the story goes, the settlement of La Ciudad de Albaricoque was established near an apricot tree. Source: Wikipedia Are you interested in learning more about labrador retriever puppies for sale in Albuquerque, NM? Call us for more information at to purchase a world class Labrador Retriever from Woody Thurman today! Twin Lakes Kennel is the number 1 resource for Labrador Retriever puppies. We select from the most dominant American field bloodlines and breed for natural hunting instinct and tractability. Our Labs, both puppies and adults, are out of the top working Labrador Retriever bloodlines in the country. The end results are the most talented, well rounded Labrador Retrievers possible, making them a most desirable family pet. More than eight thousand 8, Labrador Retrievers have been bred and trained during those thirty-five years. He has won the Ducks Unlimited Open Championships twice. Our Labrador Retriever puppies are the culmination of a 30 year search for the most talented, well rounded Labrador Retriever possible. Our puppies begin a structured socialization program in the litter box and are introduced to birds at six weeks. All our Labrador Retriever Puppies carry a guarantee against hereditary defects and to have basic retrieving instincts. Parents of all our Labrador Retriever puppies are physically sound with certified hips and eyes. They are out of the top working Labrador Retriever bloodlines in the country. We guarantee all our Labrador Retriever puppies to be free from hereditary defects. Call Woody and Judi at for more information. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! We have answers. Labrador Retrievers were first developed in Newfoundland to work as retrieving dogs of fishermen. Today, these friendly and reliable dogs are often family pets or are used to guide the blind and the deaf. Browse our Labrador Retrievers for sale Albuquerque to see more of them! Uptown makes it easy to find your dream dog! Soon, your new Lab puppy will be at home with you. What makes Uptown Puppies different from other places with Labrador Retriever puppies for sale Albuquerque? A lot of people like visiting a breeder to choose potential puppies in person. We built the Uptown network to make it easy for people to find an Albuquerque Labrador Retriever for sale online without worrying about getting scammed or ending up buying from a puppy mill. We work only with qualified breeders! Are there any Labrador Retriever puppies in Albuquerque available now? There could be! However, keep in mind that Labrador Retrievers are popular dogs and new litters find new homes almost immediately after being listed. So when you find a Labrador Retriever Albuquerque that you like, contact the breeder straightaway to reserve the puppy. If you miss your chance, you could be waiting for some time before the new puppies arrive. Does Uptown Puppies have a transparency policy when it comes to breeding puppies? We believe everyone deserves to know where their puppy comes from. The Albuquerque Labrador Retriever breeders on Uptown are committed to transparency. These reputable businesses are ready to share with you the health and breeding records of their Labrador Retrievers for sale in Albuquerque when you ask for it. Do I still need to pick up my puppy in person? One of the services offered by the Labrador Retriever breeders Albuquerque on Uptown is safe puppy transport. You can arrange to have your new puppy sent to a major airport near you. While waiting, the breeder will keep in touch to answer your questions about the process and update you about any new milestones your puppy hits. Do you offer the cheapest Labrador Retriever puppies Albuquerque? Not really. This was never what we wanted to accomplish anyway. What the breeders and businesses on Uptown offer is the best possible service to people looking for a Labrador Retriever for sale Albuquerque. By maintaining high breeding standards and transparent health records, they are hoping to provide families a stress-free experience. Do you recommend specific food for Labradors? Labrador Retrievers are infamous for their appetite however, each dog is still different. What one Lab might like, another might shove away. And they have varying nutritional needs too. Are Labrador Retrievers intelligent and easy to train? This is why they are such a popular choice as guide or service dogs. Just remember to be patient and consistent when training Lab puppies. Do Labradors make good family dogs? The good-natured Labrador makes a great family dog. Their energy and playfulness will be appreciated by children and adults. They are also gentle and patient despite their size. Ready to meet the best dog ever? Uptown can help you find a Labrador Retriever for sale in Albuquerque! From older puppy to adult. Check out our Labrador Retriever puppies We have an all yellow litter due middle of July. Call us if you are interested in this litter. We have been breeding and showing dogs since , starting with Keeshonds and then moving on to Akitas, and finally settling on Labrador Retrievers. We chose Labrador Retrievers because of their sweet nature, versatility and capacity for learning. We are a small, private kennel and specialize in the breeding of sound, style Labrador Retrievers in all three colors: chocolate, yellow, and black. Our puppies from day one are put through sensory training. We utilize Puppy Culture with all of our litters to help build healthy puppy and dog minds. About Sandia Labradors Although our Lab's are actively shown in conformation, all of our dogs live in the house and are pets first and show dogs second. They are loved and played with on a daily basis and worked with on training several days a week. Frequently putting our dogs before AKC judges and winning, reinforces the soundness of our breeding program. All of our Labradors are carefully screened prior to breeding so that every precaution is taken to make sure that each breeding produces healthy, happy pups absent of any inherited disorders. The goal of our breeding program is to constantly be striving to produce that perfect pup in temperament, health, and conformation. Living with Labradors Labs are the best but there are a few things you should know before bringing one into your home. Click below to learn more. In The Beginning.Tour Our Facilities We raise all of our labs in our very own home. They are part of the family. Click below to see pictures of our facilities and to learn more about how we raise our dogs. Click below to tour our facilities. More Info Living with Labradors Labs are the best but there are a few things you should know before bringing one into your home. We've owned two other black labs, but Hennessey is by far the best mannered and well tempered, He is incredibly smart and I've had zero issues training him. I even trained him myself to become a therapy dog! Sandia Labradors are an exceptional breeder and I would recommend their pups to anyone looking for a new addition. The Sandia lineage is evident in his rapid adaption to obedience, loving demeanor, and dedication to play. We could not have found a better pet anywhere at any cost. Nancy and Eric Peterson.

The average cost of a Pug puppy in Arizona varies depending on a variety of factors. The canines you may buy from reliable breeders usually have lesser pricing. Experienced or well-known breeders would most likely demand greater prices. Of course, the type of Pug you desire will always be the main factor. Given the cost of the puppies themselves, you will also need to budget for other expenses. Why to avoid puppy mills and backyard breeders while choosing a Pug Puppy in Arizona? When it comes to adopting puppies for a family, puppy mills and backyard breeders should never be regarded. Puppy mills strive to make the greatest profit by spending the least amount of money on the canines. As a result, the puppies frequently experience health and behavioral problems. Since the s, the Humane Society of the United States has attempted to shut down these institutions. In order to avoid them, you need to do proper research on them as they may try to sell their dogs by calling themselves breeders. It may be tough to locate a reputable Pug breeder. Many dogs are now being raised in terrible conditions by unskilled breeders. There are, however, some steps you may take to discover the right breeder for you. These are given below. Reach Out to Friends Do you have a Pug-loving buddy or acquaintance? Inquire about their knowledge and breeder information. Try to find out about them and inquire about their breeder. Attend Dog Shows Breeders can be found wherever there is a dog show. Attend one to learn more about litter. There you can find a great deal of information about the puppies and their accomplishments. This includes- asking about their experience, asking about the parents, how and where they take care of the pups, about their contract and many more. What is the Maintenance cost in Arizona to raise a Pug Puppy? There are a few items you must have on available as you greet your puppy or adult dog into their new home to make situations much simpler for both of you. Besides, there will be medical costs as well. According to licensed veterinarian Dr. Every dog breed was created with a distinct set of requirements and objectives in mind. The Pug is a popular dog breed with a large following. Because they are friendly, humorous, loyal, cute, and reasonably easy to care for, they are an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. They make excellent pets for homes and anyone with the ability to raise a stubborn breed. Their main drawback is the numerous health issues that stem from that lovely short snout, so make sure you have the funds to cover any potential health issues as well as the heart to care for a dog that may not live to be ten years old. What do I need to know about Pug puppies? The Chinese Pug is a unique canine that may be found everywhere from the laps of royalty to many American homes. If you are thinking of getting a Pug, there are a few things you should know beforehand. Some important facts about this dog breed are given below. Pugs Shed a Lot Pugs shed a lot. Some Pugs have double coats, which means they have a fur undercoat and a fur topcoat. Make sure you have more than enough lint rollers and a powerful vacuum cleaner. They Crave a lot of Attention Pugs adore their owners and are constantly eager to spend time with them. While you are using the restroom, you can put it on your lap, in your bed, or even at your feet. Forget about your own space and get used to never being alone again. Temperatures that are neither too hot nor too chilly are ideal for them. Make sure your Pug has a comfy place to rest and does not spend a lot of time outside in bad weather. Their large eyes can cause corneal ulcers or dry eyes, and their smushed face can cause breathing problems. Their wrinkles also need to be cleansed. As a result, they are not necessarily the most compliant. Are Pugs Good With Kids? Pugs adore children. Pugs are known for being the clowns of the dog world. The Pug is a suitable breed choice for families with children. Despite their small size, they are not as fragile as certain toy breeds. They are among the most adorable canines you will ever meet, and they are irresistible playmates and pals for kids. Besides, they are also calm canines who get along well with children. A Pug, on the other hand, will disappoint children who want an energetic companion to play with. Encounters between children and dogs should always be supervised by adults. Over To You Thank you for taking the time to read through the list. Do you find the information and list above to be helpful? Pugs of how old are you looking for? I prefer month old Pugs for adoption. Let me know your thoughts on this matter. Besides, if you know any good Arizona Pug breeder who is not on my list, please share your knowledge with me. I am always open to new ideas. Do not forget to leave your useful comments in the comment section. I hope you find luck in finding a reputable Chinese Pug breeder of your choice. Related Topics:. Yolanda believes that each animal under her care has a spiritually responsive soul that requires love and care. Yolanda sometimes has pups available so keep up to date with her Facebook page for the latest news. Pug Place does not work on a first-come-first-served basis. Yolanda only offers her puppies to the most deserving, kind, and valuable adopters. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time. Pug Description The Pug is a small, stocky, square and thick set dog. They are keen, with a happy-go lucky attitude. These sturdy little puppies were bred for companionship so they are loyal, loving and affectionate with their family. Strong-minded and confident, Pugs can be willful if they sense that they are stronger-minded than the people around them. They need an owner who is calm yet firm and confident. Consistent training will ensure this smart breed does not bore and can reach his or her full, amazing potential. Discover more about our Pug puppies for sale below. History The Pug is one of the oldest breeds known today, believed to have originated before BC. Most researchers agree that the Pug originated in Asia and descended from the shorthaired Pekingese. Some speculate they are the result of a small Bulldog or a miniature form of the French Mastiff. Regardless, the breed rose to popularity during the Victorian era in the 19th century. Tibetan monasteries often kept Pugs as pets around this time. In Japan and Europe the breed not only became a pet of royalty, but the official dog of the House of Orange in Holland. Disposition The Pug is a devoted dog. They crave the love and attention of their owners and will be unhappy if that is not reciprocated. This is a puppy that is happiest when in your lap or showing off to their family. These little dogs tend to be rather sedentary, content to sit in your lap and chill. These playful, silly puppies light up the room, living it up and pleasing the crowd with their silly antics. Of course, temperament is affected by a number of factors including training and socialization, and a Pug puppy will do best with early socialization and puppy training. Taking your puppy to classes, inviting regular visitors, and taking them to busy parks and stores for walks will polish their social skills and create a well-rounded dog. The Pug is not a guard dog, hunter or retriever. They love to play but certainly have a mind of their own. Be sure to monitor their food intake as they can gain weight easily. Training All breeds benefit from early socialization and basic obedience training. The Pug can be stubborn, so it is important to assert yourself as the leader by being confident and strong-minded yourself. Pug puppies are wonderful pets for the family and their lively personalities make them great playmates. Get them used to it bit by bit as a puppy and be sure they have plenty of toys to keep them entertained while you are gone. If you devote yourself to a Pug, they are relatively low maintenance dogs. They do not require a lot of grooming nor do they need a lot of exercise. Just pay special attention to their wrinkles and breathing needs, and you will have a happy Pug! Exercise This breed is good for apartment life as they are relatively inactive indoors and do okay without a yard. They cannot tolerate hot or cold weather very well so it is best to keep them indoors at a comfortable temperature. Pug puppies are strong with short-legs and they will need to be taken on daily walks. When walking your Pug, make sure to make the dog heel beside or behind the person with the leash, as their instincts will tell them to lead the way. They also enjoy playing energetic games and will do well if you can give them regular exercise. Be careful to not overdo it with your Pug, or you will see them start to wheeze. Grooming The coat on a Pug is short, smooth and double coated. They are above average shedders. Regular brushing and bathing helps keep the coat in good condition and shedding to a minimum. A monthly bath is enough, though some bathe more frequently. Cleaning their ears is also a good idea. The most attention you will need to give your pug is their wrinkles. These folds are hotbeds for infection if allowed to become damp or dirty. The wrinkles must be dried thoroughly after a cleaning, and wiped between baths. The rest is basic care, keep their teeth clean and brush that fur! See store for details on a particular puppy. American Canine Association. Questions about Pug puppies for sale in Phoenix AZ? We have answers. How much are Pug puppies for sale in Phoenix AZ? They can get pudgy so be sure to still walk them! Can I only choose from local pups? Not too long ago, you were more limited by geography when looking for a puppy. Fortunately, the businesses and breeders in the Uptown Puppies Network have plenty of experience and training transporting their puppies to major US airports, making your search a cinch. How do you select Pug breeders in Phoenix? At Uptown Puppies, we carefully screen each participant in our network and are committed to high standards of animal welfare. Read more on our Breeder Pledge. How much do Pug puppies for sale in Phoenix cost? The price of a Pug for sale in Phoenix can be different depending on many factors, including the experience level or location of the company or breeder that you choose. There are also puppy specific factors that come into play with Pug for sale Phoenix such as gender, temperament and color. There are generally plenty of options within our network to match your price range. What makes Uptown Puppies the best choice to find a dog? Uptown Puppies cares about connecting the best in the business to loving and caring homes just like yours when it comes to Pug puppies for sale Phoenix. We strive to ensure a happy ending for all and that starts by only working with highly vetted and ethical breeders and businesses with Phoenix Pug for sale. Our network is made up of only the most stand out companies and breeders out there, giving you peace of mind. What exactly are puppy mills? Do they have them for local puppies? Puppy mills are a huge problem when it comes to the puppy market and looking for Pug Phoenix , and are to be avoided at all costs! They are essentially factory-like places where puppies are churned out as quickly as possible without regard to the health or welfare of the animals churning them out. They are profit focused and puppies from here frequently end up with expensive vet bills. Do you have any mixed Pugs? Mixed breed Pug pups and cross breeds such as the Daugle or Pom-A-Pug are popular nowadays and give you additional variety when you are looking for your perfect puppy. Phoenix Pug puppy for sale typically come in either light brown, cream or solid black. However, mixed breed Pugs can come in multiple different colors and range in size. What type of dog is a Pug? Pugs are a miniature breed dog that originally came from China and were later brought over to Europe and started to gain in popularity. They were made famous from the Dutch royal family centuries ago and are now a well known breed in the US and around the world. Are Pugs good with younger children? Pugs are often a pup of choice for those with kids or those who will have a family at some point. Pug puppies Phoenix are docile and super playful, making them enjoyable for everyone in the family, even the kids. Their solid build also makes them less fragile when playing. Are there any new litter of Pugs? Given the popularity of Pugs and how common they have become recently, you can count on finding plenty of options with our Pug breeders Phoenix!

Our home, here in the foothills of the Appalachian Trail and the Great Eastern Divide, is surrounded by all the beauty and wildlife that West Virginia offers. We have enjoyed every minute of these wonderful, loving, intelligent and beautiful dogs. We do not in-breed or line-breed our dogs and, our dogs eat a raw meat diet, they also enjoy fruits and vegetables everyday along with vitamins. Our puppy's health is considered long before they are born. They are a stockier dog, with big black eyes. Our dogs are very light cream and the lightest color possible for this breed. They are very pack oriented meaning they want to stay close to their own people. They have a very calm demeanor as adults and make excellent therapy dogs. They are intelligent, intuitive, loyal, travel well, and make excellent companions for all ages. They have been very popular for their overall beauty and personality, but foremost are healthier than American Golden Retrievers since they have not been so in-bred and line-bred like American Golden Retrievers a common practice with most breeders over the years. White Oak Golden Retrievers follow a holistic approach to raising dogs. We are authorities on health and diet. We want all our Golden Retrievers to live long lives in health and strive in every way to educate and support our Golden Retriever owners. Our information we share is backed up with research from leading Holistic Veterinarians all over the world. If you would like more information on welcoming a White Golden Retriever into your family contact us today: White Oak Golden Retrievers. Cream and sugar? Yes, please. Our English Golden Retriever puppies are born and raised in a highly supervised and nurturing environment and are extensively integrated into our daily family life and receive lots of individualized care and affection. We have meticulously developed puppy care protocols that prepare each puppy for a successful and easy transition to their new home - including sleeping through the night and ease of potty training. Their regal physiques, jet-black pigment and lush coats make them irresistible! Our lists typically fill up very quickly, so keep this in mind when planning the ideal timeframe to contact us for bringing your new baby home. Based on your preferred timeframe for bringing your puppy home, we will contact you as soon as there is news of anticipated due dates. Pre-Reservation Contact List: This is for families who express interest in a Creekside Golden puppy at some point in the more distant future and is ordered based on the date of application submission. Families on this list are also kept up-to-date on news as it becomes available, and as time draws nearer are then transferred to the Reservation List described above. Families are asked to complete a brief application that provides information about their home environment and the physical and temperamental preferences for their puppy. We are then able to carefully consider these preferences when matching puppies with their new families. We provide our new owners with a very comprehensive puppy packet containing: Holistic Lifestyle Recommendations. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. 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 Virginia 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 Virginia? 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 Virginia? 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.

chicago labrador and labradoodle puppies - Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Hello and thank you for stopping by! We are a family breeder of French Bulldog puppies located just northwest of Spokane, Washington. Austin works for a county in the area and Kimberly loves being able to stay home and look after our four amazing daughters and one son; Auriauna, Kylie, Kinsley, Aralynn, and Kamden. Along with being a homemaker Kimberly has also worked with a local breeder over the last 6 years. She is dedicated to quality care and love of all dogs. We live in a quiet area on just under 3 acres atop a hill overlooking Long Lake; hence the name Long Lake Frenchies! We love where we live and the enjoyment these dogs bring to our lives. We're looking forward to a visit from you someday! Our Dogs Well there is never a truer statement than "a dog is a man's best friend. As we've had dogs our entire lives, Kimberly was first introduced to French Bulldogs on a vacation we were on years ago in Seaside, OR. She was instantly head over heels in love with the breed. We raise our puppies in our home with other dogs and cats as we are not a kennel nor are our dogs kept in them. We have no doubt you will fall head over heels for our Long Lake Frenchies sweet disposition, beauty, affection, and intelligence. For a number of years we have wanted to expand our breeding program to the Non-Sporting Group, specifically French Bulldogs. After several years of detailed research and thorough groundwork, Affinity French Bulldogs was born! Excellent health, stable temperaments and winning confirmation is our goal! At Affinity French Bulldogs, we lovingly hand-raise each of our puppies in our home where they are broadly socialized to both humans and other animals, exposed to a variety of age-appropriate stimuli and experiences and the foundations of crate training and litter box potty training are started. Our puppies are thoroughly examined by our on-site veterinarian at birth and again at 8 weeks of age, de-wormed and vaccinated and come with our comprehensive health guarantee and life-long breeder support. We also provide micro-chip services to our customers. The most wonderful experience from start to finish! Thank you so much! Affinity French Bulldogs focuses on superior pedigree, stable health and excellent temperament. While our goal is for many of our dogs to go on to distinguished show careers, our Frenchies also make the perfect family companion and will change your life forever with their bright, affectionate and playful personalities. They happily adapt to life with individuals and families, do well with children of all ages, get along well with other pets and they adore making new friends — both of the human and K9 variety! French Bulldogs are easy keepers, do not require a lot of exercise and do not bark excessively although their naturally observant tendencies make them quick to alert to strangers or unusual activity around the home. They are well-suited to apartment life and are patient and affectionate with their owners and especially children. We are honored to be a part of so many wonderful families and would love to match you with your very own loving and vivacious Frenchie! Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water.


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chicago labrador and labradoodle puppies - Following the Labrador feeding chart by age will give you a rough idea of how much to feed your puppy. Labradors are known for their playfulness, and sweet disposition, and are good at fetch which is why you should provide them with the best nutrition to support their growth. Ensure that the food contains the right amounts of protein, carbs, fat, and vitamins. You should avoid feeding your Labrador puppy too much food as they are prone to joint issues, but also avoid feeding them less food as they will be malnourished and not reach their growth milestones. Continue reading to understand how much to feed a Labrador puppy. The amount of food that your Labrador puppy should eat depends on a combination of certain factors such as activity level, weight, type, and brand of food. Heavier and bigger puppies need to eat more food than smaller puppies, and dogs that have active lives will need more calories than those living sedentary life. Fortunately, all dog food contains a feeding guideline on the packaging to get you started. It is important that you create and maintain a feeding schedule for your puppy so that they can maintain a healthy weight and develop good habits. Consult your pet nutritionist or vet, to learn more about how much food you should give your specific Labrador. Labrador Feeding Chart By Age A Labrador can be fed between one and six cups of food depending on their level of activity, age, and type of food. The amount will differ from one puppy to the other as every puppy has there own requirements. Therefore, you should follow a feeding guideline that is indicated in the dog food brands or the one designed by your vet. As a Labrador owner, it is important to understand that the nutritional requirements of your puppy are different at each stage as they grow. Therefore, adult and puppy dogs should be trained to eat the correct amount at the right schedule. Ensure that you keep a Labrador puppy feeding chart with you. Calculating the Resting Energy Requirement RER of your puppy and doubling it can help you get the right number of calories to feed them. Feed your puppy a little amount, in the beginning, to ensure that they are ready to eat. If they are not ready, do not force the food on them. Be patient with your puppy and they will be on puppy food soon. The puppy will be relying less on the milk. When your puppy starts eating all the food you offer them, you can reduce the amount of water and increase the food amount. The puppy will start becoming active and start exploring away from the mother as they no longer rely on the mother. By the end of the week into week seven, the puppy will be able to eat just puppy food. Ensure that you feed them dry food that is full of healthy protein. They should be eating three to four times per day and need about 2 cups of food. Avoid free feeding the puppy as it may be hard to know exactly how much they are eating. Create a feeding schedule as early as possible and this will help them develop good habits in the future. Put the food out for only 10 to 15 minutes and take the bowl away if they do not finish. This can be tricky if you are working but it is important that you maintain their feeding schedule as this is a developmental stage. Three meals per day will help your growing puppy develop their digestive system and ensure that they are getting their nutrition. This is also the beginning of the teething stage and they will be biting a lot of things including hard dog food and chew toys. They should eat about two cups of food distributed over three meals. But you should still maintain feeding them two cups of food but can reduce the mealtimes to twice per day. Watch out for the amount of food your puppy eats to avoid them gaining weight. Also, ensure that they are getting enough exercise to burn off the food. So, you should transition them to adult food. Ensure that the switching process is done slowly to avoid causing vomiting and diarrhea to your puppy. Your Labrador can be fed once per day now and the amount reduced to about two cups of food. Understanding Labrador Puppy Nutritional Needs If you stick to feeding your Labrador high-quality food, be assured that they are getting all the necessary nutrients. However, it is useful to know the types of nutrients that they need and the ingredients to watch out for. Carbohydrates — healthy carbs are necessary for providing energy for your puppy. Sources like barley, rice, and oatmeal are great. Healthy carbs can also be found in veggies such as sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils. Fiber — it helps regulate the digestive system of your puppy and helps the stool become healthier and firm. Sources include spinach, chicory root, and beet pulp. Sources include fish oils, fish, canola oils, and fish. Vitamins and Minerals — are needed for improving the immune system which helps in protecting your puppy from diseases. Veggies and real fruits like cranberries and blueberries are great sources. The frequency of feeding your Labrador depends mostly on their age. Puppies need to eat three to four times per day while senior and adult Labradors can eat one to two times per day. Labrador is a breed that is motivated by food, meaning that the chance of them turning down food is low. Given their nature, it can be difficult to figure out whether they are really hungry or just food obsessed. Since they cannot regulate their eating habits, it is important that you develop a feeding schedule to prevent them from gaining weight. Both types of food provide your dog with the best nutrition they need to grow and develop. Also, check the label on the packaging and make sure that it contains the perfect balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Kibble is cheaper than wet foods and stores easily as it does not require refrigeration. It also helps clean the teeth by removing tartar and buildup when your puppy chews it. Wet food also provides balanced and complete nutrition for your Labrador. It provides more hydration to your puppy as it contains high moisture content. However, wet food needs to be put in the fridge once opened otherwise it will go bad. Some dog owners mix wet food and kibble to give their dogs the best of both worlds. Therefore, most premium dog food brands have different specially formulated puppy food. Puppies can be fed with puppy food until they are about 12 to 15 months old then transition to adult dog food. When transitioning your dog from puppy food to adult dog food remember to introduce the feed gradually for about seven to ten days by mixing small amounts of the adult dog food with the puppy food. Decrease the puppy food gradually every day with a simultaneous increase in adult dog food. This will helps the pup o adjust to the new meal easily. Experienced Labrador Retriever owners will tell you that not all puppies eat a lot. Studies also have indicated that puppies eat more when fed with other puppies or in a group. When the puppy gets to a new home, they might go off the food for the first few days. They might eat a few kibbles and then leave it. Your puppy may also prefer to eat from your hand and not the bowl. However, call your vet if your puppy refuses to eat for more than four hours. Call immediately if your puppy looks unwell. There are a few reasons you need to keep an eye on because they indicate serious problems: Your pup neither drink nor eat Diarrhea. Made with real meat and no artificial colors or flavors how much should a lab eat? Allergies Labs can also have allergies. Some dogs may be allergic to wheat, macadamia nuts, etc. It can manifest as a runny nose, high volumes of shedding, rashes on the skin, and so on. Different dietary needs are crucial, especially if they display allergy symptoms. Avoid all types of human foods. You can give your lab puppy supplements You can get great quality adult dog food and puppy kibble from companies like Royal Canin Labrador Retriever, Blue Buffalo, Canidae Grain-Free, etc. Only adult food must be given to labrador retrievers who have crossed 1. Your puppy needs 4 small meals consisting of half a cup of food per meal till he is 2 months old. From 2 to 6 months, he needs 3 meals daily consisting of 1 cup of food per meal. From 6 months onwards , you can give your puppy 2 meals daily of 2 cups of dog food per meal. Is This A Problem? Yes, this is a major problem! Fat dogs are adorable but also extremely unhealthy. An adult labrador retriever should weigh at most pounds. Labs that are fatter than this stand at the risk of obesity, arthritis , and other lifelong diseases. Refrain from feeding your labrador too many dog treats. Onions and garlic: surprisingly, anything in the onion and garlic family is incredibly toxic to dogs. Meat with bones: if not chewed properly, sharp edges can rupture the throat, stomach lining, intestines, and other parts of the digestive tract. Other human foods and beverages to avoid giving your dog are alcohol, sugar, citric fruits, and anything with caffeine. Your labrador retriever should weigh between 55 to 70 pounds at full adulthood. Male labs are heavier than female labs, so they can fall on either side of the optimal weight spectrum. Some healthy treats for your labrador retriever are cut fruits and vegetables. Carrots, celery, cucumber, beetroot, apples, bananas, and berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, etc. Dogs also love peanut butter! Veggies dipped in peanut butter also make a great snack for your dog. This is entirely up to you as dog owners. If you have the time and patience to cook meals for your dog, go for it. Store-bought food is easier and is filled with the right nutritional requirements for your lab puppy. On the other hand, with the right recipe, home-cooked food works, too. What Should I Do? A dog growling at you when you go near his food bowl is most commonly a trauma response or a way to protect his food. We often see this with rescues. House training your lab puppy is equally important to avoid food aggression. Labrador Retrievers get piddly after their meals. Dog owners must take out their lab puppy as frequently as they eat sometimes even more often to let their energy out and adult labradors less frequently. A lab puppy needs a ton of exercise. The amount of kibble you should feed your Labrador puppy will vary depending on their age, weight, and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to start with cups of kibble daily and adjust as needed. Best Dog Food For Lab Puppies: The best dog foods for lab puppies include those that are high in protein and low in fillers. The food you should feed a black lab puppy is the same as for any other Labrador puppy. A chocolate lab puppy should be fed the same food as for any other Labrador puppy. A 2-year-old chocolate lab should eat about cups of kibble daily. You should stop feeding puppy food to your Labrador at around months of age. At this point, their growth plates will have closed, and they will no longer need the extra nutrients found in puppy food. Labradors live for years. They start to slow down around 7 and may develop some health problems in their senior years. You should also increase their exercise level. Lab breeders feed their dogs high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. A lab puppy should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. This amount may increase as they get older and more active. A labrador needs at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be a combination of walking, running, and playing. Golden labs live for years. Chocolate labs live for years same like labs of any color. Labradors lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months of age. You can start to transition your puppy to eating twice a day at around 6 months of age. By the time they are 1 year old, they should eat only once daily. You should stop feeding your large breed puppy food at around 18 months of age. Why Are Labs So Hungry? Labradors are a very active breed of dog, and they need a lot of calories to fuel their energy levels. They are also prone to gaining weight, so keep a close eye on their food intake About The Author Shradha Kabra Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. Table scraps and snacks There are so many different brands of Labrador food available! And so many different opinions on dog food generally. Not to mention the alternatives to commercial food. Labrador Feeding Guide The amount you feed your Lab will vary depending on his age and the type of food you are giving him. The Eukanuba Adult Breed Lamb and Rice food suggests these serving sizes: 40 — 45 pound Lab, feed: — grams per day 50 — 55 pound Lab, feed: — grams per day 60 — 65 pound Lab, feed: — grams per day 70 — 75 pound Lab, feed: — grams per day 80 — 85 pound Lab, feed: — grams per day 90 — 95 pound Lab, feed: — grams per day However, these serving sizes will change depending on the food you use, and only apply to dry kibble! Most experts agree that the best food for any dog is one that keeps him in excellent health at a reasonable price. And choosing the best dog food for Labradors is not straightforward. We will look at the different styles of feeding first. How to feed a Labrador — different methods There are currently two very different approaches to dog feeding that are popular with many Labrador owners. Both methods of feeding have their supporters and detractors. At one time a lot of dogs were fed on canned food with an added biscuit mixer. Nowadays, only a small number of dog owners still feed this way. What about BARF? At one time, raw feeding or what you probably know as the BARF diet was considered to be a cranky and extremist fad. But as interest in raw feeding has grown and more dogs are fed this way, it is becoming clear that they are thriving too. The majority of dogs are now being fed kibble and a substantial and the growing minority are fed raw. Labrador dog food choices — dry kibble By far the majority of Labrador owners nowadays, feed their dogs on kibble. That is the dried pellets of dog food that you can buy in pet stores and online. All major pet food companies now supply a dried version of their brands. Is kibble good for dogs? It is really only a very short time a couple of decades since almost all dogs were fed on canned meat. These are a lot less popular now. The effect that this shift away from wet food and onto dried food, has had if any on canine health remain the subject of intense speculation. Busy modern homes are pressed for time these days. So convenience is an important factor. Storage Not only is kibble convenient, it also stores well, even after opening. Provided that it is stored in an appropriate container and kept in a dry place. Most dogs nowadays are trained with food. But what comes out of a kibble-fed dog smells very unpleasant. These are additional bulking agents that are not fully digested and that pass through straight through the dog. These fillers mean that kibble fed dogs produce much greater quantities of poop and much smellier poop, than dogs fed on raw meat and bones. Kibble fed dogs may also need their teeth cleaning on a daily basis. There may also be a small increased risk of bloat in susceptible dogs fed on a dry food diet. Should I feed my dog raw meat? Over the last ten years a more natural raw diet of meat and bones has become increasingly popular. Some people now believe that raw meat is the best food for Labrador Retrievers and many other breeds of dog. This is despite some websites giving out dire warnings of the dangers of letting dogs consume bones. Unfortunately, raw feeding does seem to attract a few extremists. Plus, it can be tricky to find objective and unbiased discussions of the pros and cons of raw feeding on the internet. The pros and cons Raw feeding is quite a big topic. It is both complicated and simple. Complicated because we tend to worry about the nutrients our dogs are getting. Raw feeding is not as convenient as kibble feeding, It requires plenty of freezer and refrigeration space, a designated preparation surface, and good meat preparation hygiene. Just as with meat preparation for people. Small puppies are growing fast and are vulnerable to diets with a poor nutrient balance. It is very important you do your research before attempting to raw feed a small puppy. This is because raw fed dogs get messy. It is hard in this situation to keep raw meat juices containing pathogens, away from children too small to understand the importance of hand washing The important fact here is that there is no right way to feed a dog. Your family needs to be considered as a whole. The feeding method you choose needs to fit in to your lifestyle and current circumstances. I fed raw to my dogs for many years. But I did not do this and could not have done this, when my kids were little. Nowadays, I sometimes feed kibble, if circumstances demand it. But prefer to feed raw whenever I can. Remember, many dogs thrive on kibble, and many dogs thrive on raw. Choosing the best dog food for Labs may also depend on your own circumstances. If you have a small puppy you may be happier feeding kibble With children under five, it may be safer for you to feed kibble If your dog has a close relative that has suffered from bloat, he may be safer eating raw If your dog suffers from allergies, he might do better on raw Now may be the right time to feed raw for you, or it may be the right time to feed kibble. Your circumstances are unique so only you can decide. For those of you the majority that will be feeding kibble. Choosing the lowest price Labrador food may not necessarily be the cheapest option. As very often, you will need to feed larger quantities of the cheaper food. Biologically appropriate kibble? It is usually a reasonable option to choose a mid-range in terms of cost food and see how your dog gets on with that. If your wallet can stretch to it, we especially like the Orijen brand. Orijen is what my dogs have as training food, and when I am not able to feed them raw. So if you decide to switch brands, do it gradually over the space of a few days by adding a little more of the new food and a little less of the old, each day. How often to feed your Labrador Many dog owners continue to feed their dogs twice a day throughout their lives. Some people feed their dogs once a day after twelve months of age. We do know that there is an association between bloat and large meals. Though this may only apply to kibble Once daily feeding is probably fine if you decide to feed raw meat. But with kibble it may be too much dry food in one go. I recommend that you feed your adult dog morning and evening. How often to feed puppies The amount of food that your Labrador puppy needs to eat each day must be divided into several portions. But it will almost certainly give him diarrhoea and could damage his stomach as kibble swells after drinking. From eight to twelve weeks your puppy will benefit from four meals a day. Breakfast, lunch, tea and supper. Space the meals at least three hours apart to give him chance to digest them properly. And make sure the last meal is a two to three hours before his last trip to the toilet at bedtime. Once your puppy gets to three months old you can divide his daily ration into three portions, and by six months to two. Breakfast and supper. How much to feed a Labrador? Recommended quantities can be found on kibble packaging and these will vary quite widely from brand to brand. They are also often on the high side. If your dog is a little overweight, feed about a third less than recommended for a few days and then re-assess his appearance. Your dog may well need less food than you think. How long should a dog take to eat his dinner? I prefer my dogs to eat their meals up fairly quickly. Plus, he will eat more enthusiastically at the next meal if he is a little hungry. How to feed a Labrador slowly A much more common problem in Labradors, is the dog that scoffs his dinner in a heartbeat and then begs for more with pleading eyes. There is an association between bloat and rapid eating, so if you can slow down your dog a little, it is probably good thing. The best way to do that is by using a slow feed bowl. Provided there is nothing in there which is unsuitable. Giving leftovers to puppies Puppies need a very well balanced diet to grow up strong and healthy. Unless you are a very experienced dog owner and knowledgable about nutrition and the dietary needs of a growing animal, it is not a good idea to feed your puppy on household scraps. And complete puppy foods contain all the nutrients your pup needs to develop a healthy body. Dog feeding equipment and storage There is a huge choice of feeding bowls available. You can get some very cheap and colorful plastic bowls. I like stainless steel. But I admit it is quite noisy to handle and use. And not as pretty as some of the ceramic products. Think carefully before you buy raised bowls as some studies have associated these with bloat. Storing dog food Kibble is for the most part a convenient food source. To keep your food fresh, an airtight container is a better bet. We like the wheeled pet food storage bins and they enable you to move heavy quantities of food around without putting your back out! This slimline version fits nicely in a cupboard. Well worth thinking about, especially if you have several dogs to feed. There are also some gorgeous storage containers now that beg to be put out on display. Feeding Labrador puppies When you first bring your puppy home, your breeder should have provided you with a diet sheet, some food, and plenty of information on feeding Labrador puppies. It is really important to stick with his familiar food for the first few days. Moving home is traumatic enough for an eight week old pup without giving his tummy a shock too. If you have not been given any food or any information on how to feed a puppy then I suggest you call in to your local pet store and buy a small sack of kibble puppy food that is appropriate for his breed and age. Giving water to your Labrador Puppies and older dogs need water available to them at all times during the day. Provided that it is at least an hour since his last meal. Kibble fed dogs drink quite a lot of water, raw fed dogs may drink very little. This is normal. When feeding problems need veterinary help All puppies need regular veterinary check ups and when you take your puppy to the vet for his vaccinations. This is a great time to ask any questions you might have on his diet and welfare generally. All dogs may eat less in very hot weather. But changes in appetite, especially sudden changes, can be a sign that a dog is not well. Before adopting a Labrador Retriever puppy, many owners go to great lengths to deduce the optimal food for their pup. From raw feed to canned food from a local pet store, there are plenty of dog food options for owners to consider, but which is the best dog food? Whether you feed your puppy a raw food diet or commercial dog foods, there are lots of ways for your pup to consume a balanced diet. There are plenty of sources that will describe the benefits of one diet over another, but remember that no one knows your puppy better than you. The decision to feed your dog a diet that you think is best is yours to make. There really is no right or wrong answer when it comes to selecting a food for your puppy. Your pooch will likely enjoy eating wet food just as much as they enjoy commercial dog food. So long as you feed your pup an adequate amount of food, they are likely to live a long and healthy life. If you would like specific advice about feeding your individual puppy, you may wish to consult with your veterinarian or other dog food expert. When you first bring your puppy home, it can be alarming if your dog does not touch its puppy food during the first few days at home. Is this cause for concern? Noticing that your precious pup is not eating can be a frightening realization. Prior to being welcomed to its forever home, your Lab puppy was accustomed to living with its mother and siblings. Therefore, being uprooted from this life can initially be a startling experience for a dog. Fortunately, puppies should develop an appetite within a day or two of entering their forever home-they just need a short time to adjust to their new life. If, after a few days, your puppy is still not eating their dog food, it may be a wise idea to have your puppy evaluated by a vet. Feeding A Two-Month-Old Labrador Retriever Two months old is about the earliest point at which a Labrador puppy can be brought home by their new family. When a Labrador puppy begins to eat solid food, it will not be eating a ton of food. So, owners can start their Lab puppy off with somewhere around 0. As your puppy grows older and gets bigger, owners should look to increase the amount of food for their Labrador pup. By the time a puppy is nearing three months old, it should be eating well over 1 cup of food every day. Some puppies may be consuming close to two cups of dog food at this time. This increase in size means that their appetite has also surely grown since bringing them home. By the time a Labrador puppy is around 3 months old, it should be eating close to 1. Large three-month-old Labrador puppies can be away a substantial amount of food as they are near four months old. Some puppies will be able to consume around 3 cups of food daily at this point in their lives, but most will be eating closer to 2 cups of dog food every day. If your pup seems hungry and looks to be a healthy weight, there is no need for owners to be concerned about how much food their three-month-old Lab is consuming. Your precious pooch will start to look more like an adult with each passing day. Therefore, it is essential to feed your dog enough food to promote the weight gain that makes dogs thrive. Four-month-old Labrador Retrievers should be given at least two cups of food daily. The biggest, most ravenous Labs will eat close to 3. However, only dogs on the large end of the puppy spectrum will need to eat this much at this time. Average four to five-month-old Labs should eat anywhere from 2 to 3 cups of food daily. Labrador Retriever teenagers are characterized by disproportionate body parts, distracted behavior, and dispositions that range from silly to ornery. Therefore, getting enough food to support such development is imperative. A six-month-old Labrador will surely be able to eat at least 2. This will ensure proper growth for your pooch. As your puppy reaches the point in which it is 7 to 8 months old, continue to increase the amount of food that your puppy receives. Labrador Retriever puppies that are close to 9 months old can eat more than 4 cups of food daily. However, your furry friend is more likely to consume 2. Instead, your pup is likely nearing its adult size. So, how much food should ten to twelve-month-old Labs be eating? Puppies that consume quantities of food on the low end of the spectrum should be consuming at least 3 cups of food every day during this time. On the other hand, large Lab pups that are between 10 to 12 months old could be eating 4. If your puppy is on the brink of adulthood, it would be wise to consider weaning it off of its puppy food in favor of adult dog food. All Lab puppies should be offered adult dog food when they reach maturity, as such food replaces nutrients that are essential for puppies with ingredients that benefit adults. Whereas puppies should eat food that increases their body weight, adult Labs should eat food that maintains their weight. So, if you think it may be time to switch your Labrador Retriever to an adult dog food diet, consult with your vet and find a food that is best for your adult Lab. Of course, the mature size of your pooch will dictate how much food it can and should be consuming every day. Generally, it is advisable to feed an adult Labrador anywhere from 3 to just over 4 cups of food every day. Gauge the weight and appetite of your pet to determine the perfect amount for your furry friend. Though the above recommendation will be perfect for most adult Labs, there are some instances in which mature Labradors will require more adult food. Pregnant Or Lactating Labs A Labrador who is pregnant or lactating will require substantial amounts of food to nourish herself and her litter of pups. Therefore, owners should be prepared to offer vast quantities of food to their Labrador mothers. While a typical adult Labrador will consume 3 to 4 cups of food every day, Labrador mothers should be offered around 6 cups of food at least to keep up with their enormous energy requirements. If your mother Labrador snarfs this food down and still seems hungry afterward, be prepared to offer her additional food. Especially Active Labs If your Labrador is an athletic specimen, it may need to consume more than a typical adult Lab to fuel the exercise regime that such a dog is accustomed to. Dogs that receive more than one hour of daily exercise could be considered especially active dogs. Owners can begin by offering these pooches 4. If they still seem hungry, owners can increase the amount of food given to these dogs. Once a dog reaches the golden years of its life, it is once again time to switch up its diet. Senior dogs should consume food that caters to the needs of their aging bodies. These pooches can get away with eating a low-protein diet whereas such food would not be appropriate for puppies or adults. Given that senior dogs are usually not especially active dogs, they do not require as much food compared to adult and large puppies. Therefore, supplying a senior Lab with anywhere from 2 to just over 3 cups of food daily should be plenty for your pooch. Now that you know how much to feed your Labrador, you are likely curious about the number of times that your dog should be fed every day. Some may be looking for a quick answer about how often to feed a Labrador every day, but the truth is nuanced. When it comes to feeding your Lab, it turns out that Labs of different ages should be fed different amounts of food every day. Read on to discover the perfect number of meals for your Lab. An infant Labrador Retriever should have its daily food allotment broken up into at least 4 meals every day. This will help supply these petite pups with the energy that they need to get through the day. Lab puppies that are four to twelve months old do not require as many meals as their younger counterparts. However, these dogs should still receive three meals per day to support their rapid metabolism. Feeding one meal in the morning, one in the afternoon, and one in the evening is optimal. Adult Labs do not need to eat as many meals are puppies due to their slower metabolisms. Supplying an adult Labrador Retriever with two meals every day would be perfect for these dogs. Ideally, adult dogs will be fed one meal in the morning and one in the evening. When your furry friend reaches the point in their life where they are considered to be a senior dog, your pooch will have the slowest metabolism in their life. The slow metabolism for senior Labs means that these dogs do not need to eat as frequently as they did when they were younger. In fact, senior Labrador Retrievers can get by with eating a single meal every day. One to two meals per day is ideal for a senior Labrador Retriever. Owners can see if their senior Lab prefers one or two meals each day by allowing them to try each option. Is this because these dogs are prone to obesity or simply because there are so many Labs out and about? It turns out that Labrador Retrievers are more prone to obesity than many other dog breeds. Labs have evolved to be very active dogs. If owners fail to provide their dogs with proper exercise and feed their furry friends excessive amounts of food, there is a good chance that owners will end up with overweight dogs. Why Is My Labrador Overweight? If you are someone who owns an overweight Labrador, you are not alone. Overweight Labs are still lovable pooches, but they could stand to lose some pounds for their own good. Obviously, feeding your dog less food is likely to be one of the keys to helping your canine companion to lose weight. However, you may be wondering what else you can do to help your Labrador lose weight. Well, if you do not frequently exercise your dog, then this is a good place to start. Try feeding your dog its typical amount of food but increasing its exercise to see if it starts to lose weight. For those that are still struggling to get your pooch to lose weight, be sure to cut out table scraps and dog treats from the diet of your dog. Moreover, be sure that you are not free feeding your Labrador Retriever. Free feeding is acceptable for puppies when they are infants, but Labradors that are any other age should not be free fed, for this can also result in a chunky pooch. If you fear that your dog is consuming its food too quickly, there are plenty of feeding methods to help your pooch slow down. Obesity in dogs is a serious issue. We briefly touched on this subject when discussing the best foods for Lab puppies, and the same advice will apply here. Some owners feed raw to their Labs, while others may feed kibble. Does this mean that those who practice raw feeding are likely to own healthier dogs compared to those feeding kibble to their dogs? Of course not! High-quality dog food may take many different forms. A raw diet could provide your dog with all of the nutrients that it needs, but it is not inherently better for your dog than dry food or homemade food. Ultimately, owners know their Lab better than anyone else, so they should have the final say regarding what to feed their dog. Deciding what to feed your Labrador can be an overwhelming prospect. Consult A Veterinarian Inquiring with a trusted veterinarian about the diet of your Labrador Retriever will help an owner determine the optimal food intake for their precious pooch. They may also recommend certain dog foods that can be purchased to feed a Labrador. A feeding chart will provide information related to how much food to provide a Lab based on its age. A feeding guide may even break down how much food to feed a Labrador based on its weight. There are plenty of Labrador Puppy feeding chart options and feeding guides for adults. Finding a feeding chart that was created by a trusted source like the American Kennel Club can help you make an informed decision about how much to feed your furry friend. Ultimately, a feeding guide is a good place to turn if you find yourself in need of a quick answer about the topic of how much to feed your Lab. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.