crate training your labrador puppy

Temperament and Personality These dogs are attention seekers, loving to be close to their family members, also following them wherever they go, a trait well-inherited from both their parents. Being easy-going, they mingle well with children of all ages, loving to play with them, though adults should supervise because of their small size of these dogs. They are also excellent with canine and noncanine pets, but owing to their short stature, they should not be left alone with big dogs. Having a great sense of humor, the fun-loving Frugs are natural charmers, always desiring to entertain and please their owners in every way they can. The French Bulldog Pug mixes cannot thrive well in too warm or very close temperature. Inheriting the curiosity of their parents, particularly the Pug, they are curious about all that is going on around them. They get along well with strangers, though the guard dog instinct inherent in their genes could be triggered if not given proper training. Care Exercise These moderately active dogs would do fine when taken for a leisurely walk on a regular basis. However, they cannot stand excessive exercise. The Frenchie Pug puppies are more active than the older dogs that have a calm disposition loving to relax in apartments. However, engage them in some activity of the other as they get dejected on being left alone. Grooming Owing to their short coats, these dogs need very less grooming. However, brush them once a week to remove the dead hairs from their coat. Bathe your pet when he gets dirty, or to get rid of the hassle of bathing, you can wipe his body with a wet cloth. Make sure to keep the wrinkles on their face dry to prevent infection of any kind. Check their ears and do not let excessive wax accumulate. Their nails are also to be kept clean to ensure proper hygiene. Health Problems Though they are healthy, they might suffer from some of the common ailments of their parents. Patellar luxation, cataract, glaucoma, hip dysplasia, allergies, breathing difficulties, and entropion are a few of them Training Obedience: As it tends to get stubborn and willful, just like its parents, giving it obedience training since its puppy days is essential. Watchdog training: As it is intelligent and courageous similar to the French bulldog, you can train him to be a good watchdog. Acquaint him with different people and experiences so that he can differentiate normal circumstances from suspicious ones. Tricks: As it always desires to amuse and charm its owners, you can take this opportunity and teach it skills like walking backward. After he has performed the trick, give him lots of praises and pats or even a treat. Feeding The Frenchie Pug will need about one and a half to two cups of dry dog food every day. Overfeeding them might make them obese. Frug Description The Frenchie Pug is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the French Bulldog and the Pug. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. Their mother is a brindle French Bulldog and their father is a fawn Pug. He enjoys play dates with his best friend Ginger who is a Corgi. They play for hours chasing playing tug of war and wrestling. Banx is a cuddler, and loves being by my side. What a gift, a true blessing. He was the best birthday present for me. He also thinks he is a guard dog, but warms up very quickly to the guests; he will even sneak a kiss in if he can. He loves to go rollerblading and running like a wild man with other dogs in the park, but his favorite things to do are eat and sleep. When he passes out, he snores very loudly, and there's no waking him up. She is very devoted, and hasn't got a drop of aggression in her. Very balanced dog. Very clever too. Robber the second-generation white and black Frenchie Pug puppy at 4 months old See more examples of the Frenchie Pug. These pups are irresistible, especially at a young age, but before you head to the breeder, you should know what to expect from your Frenchie Pug puppy. First and most importantly, know that Frenchie Pug puppies are not easy to train. This breed can be stubborn and a bit strong-willed, so be prepared to dedicate some time to teaching them the basics. This includes commands like sit, stay, and come, but it also includes housebreaking. These things often take more time with Frenchie Pugs than they do with other breeds, so you must have patience and be consistent with training. You should also know that since Frenchie Pugs inherit traits from both French Bulldogs and Pugs, their appearance can vary quite a bit based on which parent they resemble more. Frenchie Pugs Come From Royal Ancestors You know that Frenchie Pugs are the offspring of a French Bulldog and a Pug, but what you may not know is that their Pug ancestors were believed to be the preferred companion dog of Chinese royalty. Unlike most mixed breeds that can inherit personality traits and behavioral tendencies from one or both parent breeds and ultimately vary quite a bit, the Frenchie Pug comes from two pretty similar parent breeds. What this means for you is that you can rest assured that the dog you welcome into your family will be loving, affectionate, playful, energetic, and needy. Knowing what to expect in terms of the temperament of your dog is very important to some people, so this is definitely a positive feature of this crossbreed. Frenchie Pugs Are Good for Apartment Living Finding a dog that is suitable to live with you in an apartment can be challenging for many reasons, but one of the biggest is barking. If you do live in an apartment where noise is a big issue, the Frenchie Pug may be perfect for you. This breed is generally very quiet and barks very rarely. If your routine will leave your Frenchie Pug at home alone for long stretches, this may not be the best type of dog for you. The more human interaction and attention your Frenchie Pug gets, the happier they will be. Are These Dogs Good for Families? In fact, while some breeds are simply good for families and children, Frenchie Pugs thrive in a family environment. Socialization early on will aid in cultivating this kind of calm and accepting personality, but your Frenchie Pug will likely have these traits naturally. Like all breeds, Frenchie Pugs should be eating a high-protein diet that includes healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. No specific diet restrictions exist with this breed, so any high-quality commercial dog food will do. It should be noted that high-quality food is key, as low-tier dog foods that contain fillers can lead to health problems for any breed. This is particularly important for dogs like the Frenchie Pug who is genetically predisposed to medical issues already. Many small dogs are prone to overeating and obesity, and the Frenchie Pug is no exception. One minute walk each day or a few minute walks on a daily basis will be perfect for this breed and will help minimize weight gain. To put it simply, Frenchie Pugs are pretty lazy dogs, and as long as they get their recommended walking time in each day, they will happily lie on the couch with you or sit with you while you work or watch TV. Routine walking will keep your puppy in tip-top shape. However, these dogs are also strong-willed and can offer up some serious difficulty for inexperienced dog owners. Like we mentioned earlier, the French Bulldog Pug mix normally takes a bit longer to get housebroken, so expect to put in some additional effort to get your pup to this point. This will make your job and your life a whole lot easier. Shedding is, however, one downside to this breed, as Frenchie Pugs do tend to shed quite a bit. While you may not have to brush your pup too often, you should be prepared to vacuum regularly. Since Frenchie Pugs inherit some of their physical traits from their wrinkly Pug parent breed, your dog may have skin folds that require regular cleaning to prevent infection. This largely depends on how much of that adorable wrinkliness your Frenchie Pug exhibits; physical traits can vary on an individual level. Lastly, regular grooming practices like teeth and ear cleaning every other week or so will go a long way in preventing tooth and gum issues as well as ear infections. French Bulldogs and Pugs are not known for their heartiness, and their common ailments can be seen in this breed as well. Regular vet visits are essential for the French Bulldog Pug Mix, and your pup may require more testing and medical screening than other breeds. This can lead to higher-than-normal vet bills, so be aware of this and the below common conditions found in this breed. Minor Conditions Eyelid issues like entropion and ectropion Patellar Luxation. Hundreds of abandoned and abused dogs are surrendered so there might be a chance for you to find a French Bulldog Pug here. Brush the hair with firm bristles at least once a week to get rid of dead hairs. You can use a wet cloth to wipe off a speck of dirt or bathe your dog entirely if he becomes all grubby and grimy. Always see to it that the creases on the face are thoroughly dried up to prevent any infection. Clean both ears and trim their nails regularly. French Bulldog Pugs Health Problems It is typical for hybrids like the Pug and French bulldog Combination to inherit the health condition that has afflicted the parent breed. Being born hale and hearty is not always a guarantee that they will not develop the same problem. Screening tests are now available to help breeders determine which dog to breed. Ultimately, you need to be conscious and be able to recognize the signs for these illnesses. Glaucoma is caused by high pressure that builds up in the eye. This may impair the optic nerve and can result in total blindness. It usually starts with just one eye and can progress into the other. Cataracts affect the lens of the eyes, making them dense and opaque. The most common cause is genetic. Diabetic dogs are more vulnerable and prone to develop this disease. Eye injury and infection are also common causes. Allergies or allergic reaction whether from food or the season may be in progress if you notice an increase in scratching, licking, and chewing. Antihistamines usually work wonders. Atopic Dermatitis is a chronic skin disease related to allergies. Like most allergies, the signs include itching, scratching, rubbing, and licking, especially around the face, paws, and underarms. Entropion is when the eyelashes, including the skin around the eye, have direct contact with the cornea. This condition is either congenital caused by an anatomic defect or acquired as a result of trauma. Dogs with dislocated kneecaps exhibit prolonged and abnormal movement of the hindlimb. You may find them occasionally skipping or limping. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome is characterized by elongated soft palate, stenotic nares, everted Laryngeal Saccules. Brachycephalic dogs like the French bulldog and Pug mix, often have difficulty breathing and may have respiratory problems. Health issues may affect their quality of life. Therefore, it is your responsibility to look after the welfare of your Pug French bulldog. It is essential that you limit activities that may lead to excessive physical exertion. Keep in mind that these mongrels are also unable to swim so try to keep them away from pools or puddles. Exposure to direct sunlight and excessive heat can make them susceptible to illnesses so make sure that you monitor their temperature. Pug French Bulldog Food Requirements Your primary goal is to properly nourish your French Bulldog Pug, so you may want to give him only the best food brands available in the market. They could do with approximately one and a half to two cups of dry dog food in a single day. Measuring the amount of food you serve and monitoring how much he eats are highly recommended. Find products that they will also enjoy eating. Canidae Grain Free Pure Foundations Puppy Formula Canidae Grain Free Pure Foundations Puppy Formula contains omega-3 and 6 fatty acids to support supple skin and a beautiful coat, antioxidants for a healthy immune system, and probiotics to assist in proper digestion. It is free from any artificial ingredients, by-products or fillers. It is also rich in antioxidants, Omega fatty acids, probiotics and more. It has DHA that promotes optimum brain development and probiotics that aids digestion. It also has omega-3 fish oils, vitamins, and minerals. It has no additives and harmful chemicals; VeRUS provides ample nourishment for a growing dog. It is one of the most popular natural dog foods in the market. It is totally free of grain and corn, wheat and soy which makes it easy to digest and definitely safe for dogs with sensitive stomachs. With percent which is by far the highest animal-based protein compared to other dog food, Nulo does not use by-products or any other food derivatives. Their recipe is free of artificial flavors and colors, and preservatives. With no common allergens added, this dog food is an excellent choice for Pug and French bulldog combination with sensitive stomachs and skin allergies. It is completely free of wheat, corn, and soy and has probiotics for good digestion. Orijen Senior Dog Orijen Senior Dog food is manufactured with 80 percent meat and fish making it a good source of high-quality protein. It provides natural sources of chondroitin and glucosamine which supports healthy joints. Key benefits include Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to ensure healthy skin and coat, an increased amount of protein and L-Carnitine for healthy muscles, carbohydrates for energy, Vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants for immune system health and natural sources of chondroitin and glucosamine for mobility and healthy joints. The formula is enhanced with guaranteed probiotics and fiber to help support digestion especially among sensitive pets, high-quality protein to maintain ideal body condition, and added glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joints. Chicken, turkey, and beef are great sources of protein. Salmon and tuna are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids which promotes healthy brain and heart and good eyesight. Rice, wheat, and grains are carbohydrates that our pets can actually digest. But as they grow old, they become more relaxed. They are known to be moderately active dogs, so too much exercise is dangerous. Physical activities for about minutes ensure that your dog gets a sufficient amount of exercise and stimulation. A leisurely walk each day is one activity that your dog will surely enjoy. You may also engage them in play using toys. Luckily, these toys are readily available in the market: Throwables — for playing fetch and tossing JW Pet Products Hol-ee Roller — Your dog, develops problem-solving skills as they work to extricate treats or toys from this rubber ball. Launchers and Chuckit! Ultra Ball — Bring your fetching experience to the next level with the launcher and a high bouncing ball that also floats in water. Chewables — for chewing and teething Kong Original Toy Rubber — Stuff it with treats and your dog will find this satisfying. It also reduces distress caused by separation anxiety. The toy teaches your dog how to focus attention and helps lessen hyperactivity. The structure provides adequate comfort and optimum levels of relaxation. Furthermore, consistent and regular training will help you achieve desirable results. Obedience — Training your Mix of Pug and French Bulldog may be a little daunting as they prove to very obstinate and may have difficulty picking up on tasks. Establish yourself as the master and let him know you are in control. Watchdog — You may start this training by letting your dog socialize or mingle with other people. This will provide him experiences that will help develop his sense of inquisitiveness. Through this, your Mix of Pug and French Bulldog will be able to recognize suspicious activities around him. Tricks — They will always aim to please so you can use this opportunity to teach your pet friend entertaining and interesting tricks like a handshake, kiss, crawl, walking backward and a lot more. Ultimately, it is important to reinforce training with love — let your mix of French Bulldog and Pug know and feel your appreciation by giving him treats or toys. French Bulldog Pug and Families The cross between Pug and French Bulldog are gaining much popularity as household pets because of their lovable and affectionate nature. This is very appealing, especially among the younger generation. Before you take home the newest member of your family, there are certain things that you need to consider. Establish the rules and assign responsibilities like who is going to feed, bathe, and walk him. Designate one activity room in your household where family members can mingle with your new pet while pointing out which rooms is off-limits. Being the champion chewers as they are the combination of French Bulldog and Pug have a penchant for biting into things so you need to organize your belongings ahead of time. You may consider building up a temporary living space that is gated off. Deciding which dog breed is the best fit for you and your family might seem like an impossible task. Especially if the decision making is between two amazing dog breeds like the French Bulldog and the Pug. Both look lovably alike, even though here at the Frenchiestore we know they are not the same. There are distinct differences that tell the Frenchie from the pug dog breeds apart, and in many situations, which dog you pick may boil down to these differences. What do you need to know about their differences and how can this help pick the best fit for your family between these two loving companions? Here, we will explore all the similarities and differences between the Pug and the Frenchie dog breeds, as well as what might tip the scale for you when the decision comes right down to the wire. Appearance French Bulldog v. Pug The French Bulldog and the Pug are quite similar in height, weight and body type. The French bulldog and pugs body style is very similar for the most part however the Frenchie looks stocky and athletic, while the pug looks stocky and more wrinkly just like the English bulldog breed. The pug has a large round head with big eyes and deep wrinkles. The Pug has a curly tail while the French bulldog has a naturally short tail without being docked. They really do look similar but these differences in their appearances can help you tell them apart. They make great apartment dogs and are usually friendly towards strangers. They have a lot of love to give and they are very affectionate towards their owners. They trail after you everywhere you go, almost like having a dog as your shadow. You look back and there they are even when you go to the bathroom. Due to the fact that they crave companionship and attention, leaving them alone for long periods of time will trigger separation anxiety. Do not be deceived by their small statures, they will wreak havoc to your furniture, your pillows, and everything in your home. They do not like to be left alone for too long. These dogs can be really silly and amusing, they just want to make you laugh. However, when it comes to Pug vs French Bulldog personality, the Pug is the biggest clown with its mischievous antics and the Pug never really outgrows this puppy persona. Although neither of the breeds need much exercise, sometimes, the Pug is more active than the French Bulldog and tends to bark more though not excessively. This is a factor to consider if you have noise restrictions in your apartment. Colors and Coat of the Frenchie and pug dog Pugs usually come in all black and fawn colors with a black mask while the French bulldog can be fawn, brindle, all black, cream or white. And they can be without or with a mask. There are exception to these rules such as albino pugs or French Bulldogs, they always have blue eyes and the albinism is usually caused by a prevalent health issue. Rare colors in French Bulldogs include but not limited to:blue Frenchie, blue pied Frenchie, blue fawn Frenchie , blue brindle Frenchie, black and tan Frenchie, blue and tan Frenchie, lilac and tan Frenchie, chocolate and tan Frenchie, brindle in tan points, pure black French Bulldogs, merle Frenchie, fawn merle Frenchie, blue merle Frenchie, chocolate Frenchie , choco pied Frenchie, choco fawn Frenchie, Sable French Bulldogs, Isabella French bulldogs etc. Height, Weight and Size Both dogs are small sized companion dogs and are ideal for apartment living. But there are some notable differences. The Pug measures from about 10 to 14 inches in height while the French bulldog measures from 11 to 15 inches. The Pug weighs between 14 to 18 pounds while the French bulldog weighs from 20 to 30 pounds. The French bulldog is stockier, weighs more and looks athletic when compared to the Pug who weighs less, is not as stocky and looks like a couch potato which is a bit ironic as they can be more active than the Frenchie. Pugs live between 12 to 15 years while the French bulldog lives 10 to 12 years. However, a dog can live longer if their diet, care, lifestyle and exercise is met. Both the Pug and the French bulldog do not have excessive exercise requirements. A few walks around the block and some mental stimulation is really all that is needed to keep them in shape. The Pug needs about 40 minutes of exercise per day while the French bulldog only requires 20 — 30 minutes of exercise and frequent breaks. When caring for your Frenchie or Pug, you should know that they both require frequent grooming. With French Bulldogs, you can brush their coat 2 — 3 times a week as they do not shed so much but with the Pug, their coats have to be brushed daily and outdoors. This is to make clean up easier as they shed a lot more than the Frenchie. In addition to brushing them, they both need their wrinkles constantly cleaned to avoid skin infections or tear stains, they will also require regular baths, nail trimmings and teeth brushing. Cost, Training and Health Issues of the pug and Frenchie puppies French Bulldogs cost more than Pugs, this is because a Frenchie cannot reproduce or give birth without the help of a vet and this adds to the expense. Those prices reflect the common and standard colors of French Bulldogs. Both breeds are really intelligent and can learn exceptionally well with the right motivation but they are both stubborn and challenging to train or housebreak. The Pug is the more challenging of the two and you will need a lot of patience. Both the Pug and the Frenchie are prone to a long list of health issues including breathing conditions, this is mainly due to their facial structure. But the Pug is especially prone to hip dysplasia, luxating patella, epilepsy, skin allergies and eye problems. He is also prone to a neurological disease which causes an inflammation of the brain tissues that results ultimately in death. While the French bulldog is especially prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease, this can occur from a fall. That is, the injury from falling can cause a serious disease and infection. Breeding is also very difficult for Frenchies, they are usually artificially inseminated and give birth through CS. These treatments are part of the reason why a French bulldog is so costly. Now that you have all the information you need, it should be easier to make a choice. In making this decision, you should consider your living space, your budget, your lifestyle and the amount of time you have to spend with a dog. The solution might be to get a Frug! What is a Frug? A Frug is crossbreed between the Pug and the French bulldog. And since both of his parents are bred for companionship, you are in for one of the best canine buddies ever. In looks, the Frug is very likely to inherit a perfect blend of his parents. With the wrinkled face of the Pug, large erect ears of the Frenchie, short curly tail, a wide smile and big round eyes, you can expect the Frug to melt the heart of everyone he meets. All Frugs look different and can look more like the Frenchie or the pug and it would depend on how strong and dominant the parents genes are. A Frug is very sociable, lovable and incredibly stubborn. If you are a first-time dog owner, or an inexperienced dog parent you might not want to start with such a stubborn dog breed. Frug puppies need proper training in order to develop into well-rounded sociable dogs, if you think that you are up to the task. Then, roll up your sleeves and go for it. This is because everybody wants one and because the French Bulldog which is usually the mother requires artificial insemination and the entire process is very expensive and requires deep expertise. Frugs do incredibly well as pets for a family, a couple, a single dweller, anybody. This breed is so full of character and they really want to impress you. Choose a breed and enjoy your canine journey. Leave a comment.

Origin of the Black Lab German Shepherd Mix Designer dogs — the result of deliberately crossing two different pedigrees — are a relatively recent phenomenon. But the Labrador and German Shepherd pedigrees both go right back to the 19th century. And understanding their individual histories provides important insights into German Sheprador temperament. Labrador history Labradors were originally bred as hunting dogs, to retrieve fallen waterfowl from the water. Breeders selected breeding dogs for traits which made them great at this job: a strong build, a thick waterproof coat, and an enthusiasm to learn and work in a team with their handler. The best Labs were also gentle and chilled out companions once the hunting day was over. Which is why Labradors exploded so successfully onto the pet scene, and into service roles as well. Unlike Labs, GSDs needed to be able to work confidently at a distance from their handler. They also used to double up as watch dogs and guard dogs, alerting their owner to the arrival of anything unfamiliar, which might be a threat to their flock. Like Labradors, they also proved to be remarkably versatile, and succeed in a wide variety of roles — including police work, military work, narcotics detection, and service roles. What to Expect From a Black Lab German Shepherd Mix The whole purpose of establishing pedigrees for purebred dogs is to ensure that all the puppies descended from that pedigree look and behave in a reliable way. Inevitably, mixing breeds creates possibilities for unpredictable results. Puppies inherit traits from both of their parents at random. Designer dogs with parents who have a lot in common are easier to predict. Puppies from parents who either look very different, or were bred for very different purposes, are more variable. Black Labs can also carry the genes for chocolate and yellow coloring. Some Labs also silently carry the genes for markings like tan points. These genes hark back to when Gordon Setters contributed to the foundation of the breed. So a black Lab German Shepherd mix puppy might be black or dark brown, and have markings including sable shading or tan points. How big do German Shepherd black Lab mixes get? Labradors and German Shepherds are both medium to large sized dogs. Labs weigh 55 to 80 pounds, and GSDs weigh 50 to 90 pounds. For both breeds, females tend to occupy the bottom end of the weight range, and males the upper end. So, a black Lab German Shepherd mix could weigh anything between 50 and 90 pounds too. Their weight will be partly determined by all of the following: the general parameters of the breed the size of their parents their sex and environmental factors, like receiving adequate nutrition in puppyhood. Do black Lab German Shepherd mix dogs shed? Labs and GSDs both have thick double coats — ideal for insulating them against harsh weather conditions whilst working. So, one thing we can say for sure about the black Lab German Shepherd is that they too will be high-shedding dogs. Regular brushing, and seasonal grooming with specialist tools like a Furminator can help to keep your house clear of discarded fur. They also have a strong retrieving instinct — or in other words they like to carry things around in their mouths! Black Labs in particular have traditionally been favored for working roles, so they tend to be focussed and easily motivated to engage in training. German Shepherds are often described as courageous and loyal. They have strong herding and guarding instincts. Part of this is an innate distrust of unfamiliar people. Although, they are devoted and affectionate to their human family and regular guests. They are also very smart, and capable of picking up new cues quickly. But they are both talented problem solvers and quick learners. Sheprador puppies are sure to be smart and trainable too. So, the training and socialization you do with them while they are young will be very important. Puppies under 12 weeks old readily form positive associations with new things, if they have a good first encounter with them. Socialization is particularly important for German Shepherds and their mixes, because they are naturally inclined to be wary of strangers. It gives them the confidence to interact calmly with the world when they are older. Typically friendly breeds like Labs still need socializing too. And very friendly individuals will also need teaching how to greet people calmly, without jumping up or getting over excited. German Shepradors also need methodical leash training from a young age — being dragged along the sidewalk by a large dog is no fun! Exercise Labs and GSDs are both athletic dogs which have been bred to be mentally and physically active for several hours a day. An adult Lab GSD mix dog needs at least 2 hours of walking per day. At home, they enjoy additional games of fetch, tug and scent work. Training and puzzle feeders like Kongs and sniffle mats are valuable for providing mental exercise. A Sheprador is also likely to enjoy dog sports like fieldwork and advanced obedience training. Black Lab German Shepherd Mix Health Just like in every other respect, Sheprador health is a mixed inheritance from both of their parent breeds. Labrador Health. Any puppies that qualify as a German Shepherd Mix are a cross between a German Shepherd and another dog breed. In a mixed breed, you can get any mix of characteristics in the parent breeds. German Shepherds tend to be strong-willed, intelligent, playful, and loyal. To get a full idea of what to expect in your puppy, be sure to ask the breeder about the other dog breed in the cross and check out the mother dog in-person to get a general idea about size and temperament. On the German Shepherd side, you have an independent dog with high intelligence and a playful spirit. German Shepherds make great family pets and are born protectors. Because of their protective instinct, they can be suspicious of strangers. Socialization early and often can help curb this suspicion and make them more open to new people and situations. German Shepherds also tend to be loving and have a lively personality. The German Shepherd Mix can have any or all of these characteristics plus any characteristics from the other parent breed in the mix. Before buying a German Shepherd Mix puppy and bringing them home, be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. If the puppies are being family-raised around children, you should be able to get an idea of how they will do in a family setting that includes children. The German Shepherd is a moderately adaptable working dog that was bred to guard, work, and herd. They do not tend to do well in apartments and are best-suited for houses with yards. GSDs prefer to be with their families and do not like to be alone. They also tend to prefer cooler climates as they are sensitive to heat. With a German Shepherd Mix, you could get a moderately adaptable dog that is just like a purebred German Shepherd. You could also end up with a dog that is more like the other parent breed. Talking with the breeder about the other parent breed can give you a good idea of what to expect. German Shepherds can be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. You will need to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an idea of any other health concerns to be aware of in your German Shepherd Mix. Health screenings, clearances, and the genetic history of the parents can help allay concerns about potential health conditions. On the German Shepherd side, training and obedience classes are highly recommended for novice dog owners. Although GSDs are highly intelligent, pick up on things quickly, and train fairly easily, they can be stubborn with an independent streak. Regardless of the other parent breed in the cross, you should be prepared to enroll in obedience and training classes with your German Shepherd Mix. The experience will be beneficial to both you and your puppy and will also offer some opportunities for socialization. You will still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an understanding of what to expect during the training process. Professional grooming a few times a year and the occasional bath is also recommended. Regardless of the coat type, your German Shepherd Mix will need to have their nails trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed regularly. Not every dog will allow you to do this, so try to get a tooth brushing session in at least a few times a week to reduce tartar buildup. This will help prevent dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, it will help cut down on bad breath! German Shepherds tend to have a high activity level. They were bred to run, herd, guard, and protect, so they are used to working and having a job to do. They are definitely not a lazy dog breed! Be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. You will still want to go in prepared for a high energy dog with the understanding that your German Shepherd Mix puppy may have an activity level closer to the other breed in the cross. If both are high energy dogs breeds, expect to end up with a high energy dog. A German Shepherd is a large dog breed that generally weighs between 55 and 90 pounds. They also usually stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulders. The other dog breed in the cross could result in a smaller or larger German Shepherd Mix. A German Shepherd generally lives for years. You should be able to expect a similar range in your German Shepherd Mix, but the other dog breed in the cross could affect this range. Featured German Shepherd Mix Article. Playfulness Watchdog Ability The German Shepherd Dog is a natural protector and so adaptable and intelligent that they have performed about every job known to dogs. If he had opposable thumbs, he would be unstoppable. Intelligent and obedient, purebred German Shepherd puppies are more than devoted pets - they are lifelong companions. Pure-breed black German shepherd puppies have the right temperament to make engaging family pets. Leave them alone or confined. These pups will grow mischievous and become high-strung. As the name implies, they originated in Germany in the late s. As part of the Herding Group, German Shepherds were used for livestock, herding, and guarding sheep. Back then, GSDs were not considered pets or companions but servants of farmers. Although German Shepherds weren't considered household pets, their owners did provide proper food, protection, and shelter. In the early s, a German cavalry officer named Captain Max Von Stephanitz made it his mission to create an ideal German herder. He co-founded the world's first club devoted to German Shepherds. Von spent 35 years promoting and refining the wonderful breed. People finally noticed how strong, smart, and obedient German Shepherds are. So now the military employs them as working dogs. Their intelligence, strength, speed, obedience, agility, and keen sense of smell make them perfect for the job. German Shepherds are also very versatile and make great companions. Their impressive and lovable personalities soon drew the attention of other countries. German Shepherd dog was brought to the United States in the early s, and American breeders began to develop their own lines of the breed. The American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd in , and the species has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States ever since. Today, GSDs are not only considered one of the most favorite household pets. The versatility and outstanding characteristics make German Shepherds beautiful pets, companions, and protectors. Due to the breed's reputation for being loyal, courageous, and easy to train, German Shepherds are used as police or military dogs. Personality Know the personality and temperament of your German Shepherd Dog German Shepherds are well-known for their smartness, confidence, intelligence, loyalty, and courageous personalities. As household pets, German Shepherd dogs get along with their owners and other members of the family. However, they do not get along with strangers easily, but with time, they warm up to anyone who tries to be friendly with them. The German Shepherd dog breed is distinguished for courage, loyalty, and the ability to maintain training. Because German Shepherds have strong guardian instincts, they tend to be loyal and protective of their owners and children. Given their strong guardian instincts, inadequate training and poor socialization can make them aggressive toward strangers. Their over-protective and aggressive behaviors can put any owner at risk. Therefore, GSDs should be carefully socialized with proper training from a very young age. The best thing about GSDs is that they are intelligent. German Shepherd dogs are usually active and like to be occupied with an activity. They do well with people who allow them to stay active. They need an ample amount of exercise daily to retain their activeness. They should be continually exposed to supervision during the training period. Most importantly, your German Shepherd should not be confined to a kennel or backyard alone, as GSDs like to be around their loved ones. Keeping them tied up alone will make them lonely and aggressive. A German Shepherd dog should be purchased from a good and reputed breeder. We do not hand over any puppy or dog without having them vet-checked. Health Health is wealth, even for your German Shepherd dog. As a dog lover, when you welcome a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they become an integral part of your life. Besides training your dog, it is best to focus on your pet's wellness. You must do everything you need to optimize your pet's health and happiness. Most German Shepherds are usually healthy dogs if purchased from a good breeder. A responsible breeder will screen breeding stock to check on health conditions such as elbow dysplasia, canine hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, etc. The German Shepherd Dog has an average lifespan of 9 to 13 years. Male, Adult German Shepherd weighs around lbs. Female, Adult German Shepherd weighs around lbs. They can run 30 mph Maximum Running. Moreover, German Shepherds are prone to experience problems like bloat, skin allergies, gastric torsion, and abdomen swelling. German Shepherds experience these conditions. German Shepherds must be taken to the vet, like most other dogs, for routine health checkups. A regular checkup allows you to track your pet's health condition. Owners should be aware of all the GSDs' health-related symptoms to take care of them by taking their dogs to the vet when any symptom occurs. Besides, if you want to buy a healthy pet, you must contact a good breeder. We do everything a good breeder would do to deliver a healthy puppy to a customer. We also discuss health problems in the genetics of a puppy or dog. Grooming The importance of grooming your German Shepherd dog The adorable appearance of the German Shepherd dog is known to all. They are very adorable and majestic to look at. GSDs usually shed twice a year. Proper grooming helps in controlling shedding and keeps the coat nice. They only need a quick brushing a few times a week. A thorough brush helps to remove loose hairs from their coat and keep the fur nice and shiny. During the shedding time, frequent brushing is required to prevent the mess caused by heavy shedding. Giving the occasional bath should suffice to help them clean and smell nice. Your dog can end up hurting you unintentionally if the nails are too long. Invest in quality dog grooming products to ensure proper and safe grooming. Thus, do not forget to groom your precious German Shepherd dog. Finding How to find the right German Shepherd Breeders? The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U. S and all over the world. GSDs have love and affection towards their owners, whether a puppy, a young dog, or an adult dog. Find and choose a good breeder to find the right German Shepherd puppy. Finding a good breeder is the key if you want a purebred and healthy German Shepherd puppy or dog. You need a good and reputed breeder to find the right puppy or dog for your family. Most importantly, puppies and dogs sold by breeders must be AKC-registered, which means that they follow the rules and regulations established by the AKC. We care more about placing the puppies in the right homes than making big bucks. We are happy to share any information you need about a puppy. We welcome any questions about a puppy with a big smile. The price is determined by several factors, including but not limited to the following: The breeder's location Show Record How many puppies can a German shepherd have? A German shepherd can have six to eight puppies. Larger litter are usually born to dogs that are bred early and often. The mother's milk production is also stimulated by the hormone prolactin, which is secreted in large amounts after mating. When do German shepherd puppies' ears stand up? Some puppies' ears stand up as early as 5 or 6 weeks old, but others don't have completely erect ears until they're a few months old. As long as the puppy's ears start to stand up by about 8 or 9 weeks old, there's no need to worry. If the puppy's ears haven't begun to stand up by then, you should take it to the vet to see if there's a problem. Contact us before the puppies get sold. However, the black German Shepherd is much less well-known. This coloration is extremely rare and not currently recognized by most major kennel clubs. But they have since grown significantly in popularity. Usually, German Shepherds have a single coat pattern — black and tan. However, fully black German Shepherds do exist. This is not due to crossbreeding; the gene for completely black coats is carried by purebred German Shepherds. It is much rarer than the usual coloration, though. They have the same build and grow to be the about same size as a purebred German Shepherd. Males usually weight between 65 to 90 pounds, while females are 50 to 75 pounds. These are considered medium-to-large dogs, so consider whether you have the space before adopting one. Their height is around inches. This is correct for both males and females. Black German Shepherds are completely black. Most German Shepherds have at least a little bit of black on them. However, German Shepherds have nothing but black. Their coat is generally the same besides for their different in coloration. Their double-coat helps them stay clean and warm. As working dogs, these canines are built to work, and it shows. This coat color is accepted by the AKC. It is also not the result of crossbreeding, as some misinformation may state. Instead, it is simply a rare color that very few German Shepherds end up with. It only showed up recently and is sometimes encouraged through selective breeding. While the gene for a solid black coat was once though to be recessive, many people now consider it to be dominant. These dogs always have dark-colored eyes. Blue eyes are extremely rare and usually a sign that a dog has other breeds in his pedigree, such as Huskies. Other than the color, the body of black German Shepherds looks just like his black and tan cousins. As in all German Shepherds, the ears are typically erect, though floppy ears in adult can be seen occasionally. History By , the generalized herding dogs of Europe had split themselves into a few different distinctive breeds, including the German Shepherd. During the s, there was an attempt to standardize dog breeds and promote traits that encouraged sheep herding, including speed, strength, endurance, and intelligence. However, varieties still existed from place to place. Slight breeding difference had led to slightly different shepherds. During the industrial revolution, the need for sheepdogs decreased along with the predator population. Luckily, by this point, people were already recognizing the intelligence and ability of the previous herding dogs. From this dog the breed standard grew. In just a few generations, the German Shepherd was one of the most populous in the world. Honrand fathered many puppies. Nearly all German Shepherds today are descended from him. There was quite a bit of inbreeding that occurred to produce the German Shepherd breed we know today. The Black German Shepherd has likely existed to some extent since the breed was produced. However, many dogs do not carry the completely black gene. Many completely black German Shepherds in the past were likely culled at birth due to the defect. Today, the gene is seeing a reoccurrence. Personality and Temperament The German Shepherd is often considered to be an aggressive dog. However, this is not completely true. They do have significant protective instincts, as they were originally bred to guard flocks of sheep. For instance, the German Shepherd has a bite force of over 1, newtons. But there are several dogs that rank around this as well, including the Rottweiler, Pit Bull, and Labrador Retriever. Most dogs at about this size are going to have a similar bite strength. German Shepherds are considered to be moderately active. They need just about as much exercise as dogs of a similar size. This breed is well-known for being heavily devoted to their people and easy to train. When trained properly, they will absolutely listen. However, they do have innate protective instincts. If you want to dog that is going to be protective of their family, this is a great choice. These canines do need extensive socialization starting at a young age, though. Otherwise, they can become a bit too protective of their family and territory. These canines are not the friendliest. They are people-oriented, but not with strangers. They tend to be quite unsure with strangers. At best, they usually ignore them completely. Other times, they may be obviously uncomfortable. German Shepherds have high prey drive. On the one hand that means that you can easily motivate them with a ball or tug toy. On the other hand, it requires a lot of supervision for owners that have small dogs or cats in addition to their shepherd. While your dog might not outright try to fight with a cat or smaller dog, he could even accidentally hurt them during play. They are extremely intelligent and devoted to their owners. Unlike some dog breeds, they will listen to their owners in most real-life situations. They can learn a variety of different commands very easily and will actually do them when asked. However, these dogs do need the training. Without it, they can be overly protective and even potentially dangerous. Their ease of training does make fulfilling this need quite easy, though. We do recommend puppy classes starting at a very young age. These classes provide the extra socialization that your dog needs, as well as allows you to jumpstart their training. We only recommend private classes for dogs that are too reactive around strangers and other dogs to thrive in a group class. Usually, only German Shepherds who were not properly socialized as puppies will fit into this category. If you adopt an older German Shepherd that seems in need of socialization, we recommend taking private classes with an experienced trainer. You can work your dog through some basic commands and then work on socializing them with safe people and dogs. The trainer should be able to help you in this regard. The German Shepherd is a more active breed, and completely black German Shepherds are not different. While there are more active dog breeds out there, these canines are best for those that are quite active. They need at least two medium-to-long walks per day. Puppies will likely need some extra play sessions as well. Health and Care German Shepherds are pretty healthy as far as purebred dogs come. However, they are prone to some health problems. Many of these are due to the inbreeding that occurred early in the breed, which made some previously rare traits more common. Black German Shepherds are not known to have any more health problems than their black-and-tan cousins. Their coat coloration is not associated with any particular health issues or anything of that sort. It is important to purchase these dogs from a qualified breeder, as they tend to perform plenty of health testing on any dog they plan on breeding. This helps them recognize health problems and pick only the healthiest dogs possible for producing litters. We do recommend purchasing a German Shepherd that was bred as a working dog — not one produced as a show dog. These two lines of dogs are somewhat distinct as they have been bred for two very different purposes. Show dogs tend to confirm to an extreme extent to the breed standard, which increase the amount of health problems they develop. On the other hand, working dogs were bred with practicality in mind. Many German Shepherds have hip and elbow dysplasia. This disease occurs when the ball and socket of the joint do not line up correctly, leading to excess wear-and-tear. Eventually, this cause arthritis-like symptoms, but at a much earlier age than arthritis typically shows up. Usually, this damage occurs during puppyhood when the dog is growing, but they may not show symptoms until a few years later. There are a few things pet owners can do to reduce the chance of hip and elbow dysplasia in their German Shepherd. Many of these dogs are also affected by degenerative spinal stenosis. However, this study had a notably small sample size, so it may not be entirely accurate. On a good note, German Shepherds are actually less likely to get ear infections than other dogs. Degenerative myelopathy occurs often enough in German Shepherds that they are likely predispositioned to it. This test is very expensive, so many breeders perform it on their dogs before breeding as well as on the puppies after they are born. Once the test is used regularly, it becomes very easy to remove it from the breed. Von Willebrand disease also occurs at a higher level in German Shepherds than in the normal dog population. It is likely that they are genetically predispositioned to it. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency occurs in German Shepherds as well. This condition is usually treated with medication and pancreatic supplements. It is most likely genetic, so health testing and keeping track of pedigrees is important to eliminating it in the breed. Medium-coated dogs will only need brush two to three times a week. Long coats will need combed through at least once a day to prevent mats. Because of their double coat, dogs of all coat types will shed profusely. Do not adopt a black German Shepherd unless you can deal with a lot of extra hair. Even if you brush your dog daily, they will still shed everywhere. Usually, this occurs in the spring and fall, but it can depend on your local climate. Shedding is also tied to hormones — not just the weather. There is little you can do to reduce the overall amount of shedding your dog does. However, anti-shedding shampoos and a high-quality diet can help. It is usually not too difficult to find a normal German Shepherd breeder somewhere near you. However, not all breeders produce black dogs. Most will also be significantly more expensive than a black-and-tan German Shepherd due to their rarity. Many people want a black German Shepherd, which means that you often have to be prepared to pay a bit extra. However, this is still much cheaper than you might expect for a large dog. As a common breed, they are usually cheaper than most. It may be tempting to cut corners and purchase a cheaper puppy. However, this is not recommended, especially when it comes to German Shepherds. These puppies need socialized from the moment they are born. Often, breeders put in this time and effort. We highly recommend only purchasing puppies form very experienced breeders. Otherwise, you may end up with an unsocialized puppy and a troublesome temperament. You should always ask about the pedigree of the parents, as well as the health testing the breeder has done. Ask to see the parents if at all possible. Sometimes, the father will be located somewhere else, so only the mother will be at the breeder. In this case, it is usually fine to just see the mother. You can tell a lot about a breeder form how they keep the mother and the puppies, so be absolutely sure to ask to see their living conditions. The parents should be AKC registered, so you should ask for registration. But AKC registration does not mean that the dog is high-quality. Every German Shepherd can be registered — even those with no health testing. Preferably, you should have owned at least one dog before. It is recommended that you have some experience with more active dogs, as well. These dogs are quite active and tend to be high-energy. Without the appropriate amount of exercise, they can easily become destructive. In fact, most of the destructive behavior associated with a German Shepherd is due to a lack of stimulation. German Shepherds require extensive training as well, so it is best if they have a handler that has previously trained dogs. They will take up a few hours a day as puppies and require as much as an hour or two of exercise alone. Many of these canines are more expensive than their black-and-tan counterparts. However, they have won the hearts of many pet owners. It will often take you a little bit before you locate a completely black puppy, so be prepared to sit on a few waiting lists. Despite their unusual colorations, these dogs are very similar to all other German Shepherds. They have the same temperament and work great as guard dogs. You have to prepare to train and socialize them properly. They require quite a bit more work than other breeds, but it is absolutely worth it in the end. We recommend these dogs for serious dog owners who have previously owned dogs. German Shepherds are not for the casual dog owner. They need someone who can commit to their training and activity needs. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

January 27, "Hi, I'm beautiful, no big deal. Taya is a 6 month old Boxer puppy who has been captivating all of us with her beautiful brown eyes. My favourite thing about Boxers is how their wag starts at the base of their neck and involves their entire body wiggling side to side with joy. Like most Boxers, Taya is an excellent wiggler. Boxers are unfortunately prone to a myriad of dental problems, so when they come in for exams or surgery, we're always very careful to check their mouths for abnormalities or signs of disease that could cause problems later on. During Taya's exam, we discovered that she had a couple of issues that caused us concern. The most serious concern was that Taya had teeth missing from the places we expected to find them. Unerupted teeth are a common problem in Boxers, and can lead to catastrophic complications. Arrows are showing wounds in the soft tissue created by the incisors of the upper jaw This is a view of Taya's mouth from the side. She has an underbite mandibular prognathism , which means that her upper jaw is shorter than her lower jaw. There's an arrow pointing to her upper incisors - ideally these should be in front of her lower incisors. Because her upper jaw is shorter than it should be, some of her upper incisors are digging into the soft tissue of her lower jaw see picture. As well, she is missing a premolar on each side of her lower jaw - there is another arrow showing where this tooth should have erupted. This tooth is commonly missing in Boxers, so it's an important parameter to check on every Boxer puppy. Teeth that are formed but do not erupt through the gum tissue can potentially form fluid filled cysts called dentigerous cysts that destroy the integrity of the jaw bone. The next next two images show a dentigerous cyst found in the lower jaw of an adult boxer, where the missing teeth unfortunately weren't detected while the dog was a puppy. The unerupted tooth is outlined in green, and the borders of the cyst are outlined in red. These jaws are very weak and prone to breakage. Trying to repair a broken jaw in a dog where most of the bone has been destroyed by a cyst is very challenging, so removing these teeth before they become a problem is critically important. This is an x-ray of one of Taya's missing teeth. While they're not visible when looking into Taya's mouth, they're easy to see on x-ray. It took less than five minutes to extract this tooth and close the surgical site. Repair of a fractured jaw can easily take over an hour and is substantially more costly. Taya recovered well from her procedure and is enjoying her new and improved mouth. As a pup grows, works their way through the teething process and becomes an adult dog, they will have 42 permanent adult canine teeth. A puppy will begin to lose his or her temporary teeth at the age of 4 months. Beside from losing them, new ones will be growing in as well. The back molars will begin to poke through the gums at the approximate age of 6 months. Learn how to help your puppy get through this stage of discomfort and pain. A dog will chew just about anything to help relieve the negative sensations. However, with some planning ahead of time and some easy training, your puppy will not destroy your home and you will be able to help your puppy cope. Boxer teething time can be one of the largest hurdles that you and your puppy will overcome; fortunately this phase is temporary!! Teething and chewing problems can occur if an owner does not know how to help their puppy cope with them. When a puppy is teething, without planning and training, they will chew on just about anything they can get their mouths on. The urge to chew and gnaw is quite strong. Training Patience and consistency will always be the 2 most important elements when training a dog to do anything, this is included. Your dog has no idea that they are not supposed to chew on your favorite shoes; they are just trying to relieve their pain. A careful eye must be kept on your puppy so that you can stop them the moment they even think about chewing on something other than your pre-planned and purchased chew toys. The tone of your voice is important. This command word will be one of great importance that is used in countless situations. Your dog must understand from the tone and the actions you make that you mean business when you say this!! Do not allow the boxer to engage you in a game of tug-o-war. A puppy will see that as fun and try to provoke this game as often as they can. As your pup begins chewing on it, praise them for being a good dog. Then, immediately give your boxer on of their chewing and teething dog toys. A dog does not learn very much from an owner hitting them; even if the swat is a light one. All this will do is teach your boxer to be afraid of you and it does not show very much will power on your side. If you want your dog to have control over their behavior, so must an owner. Then, immediately give them their dog teething toy. Adult chewing Your boxer will stop teething at approximately 7 months of age. However, chewing may not stop if your dog has not been taught to use his or her toys in certain situations. When an adult dog chews this is usually caused by; Anxiety As a medium breed dog, a boxer may be kept outside at certain times, given that the environment and temperature is safe and correct. However, a dog left alone for too long outside will make for a very bored dog. If your dog is bored outside and chews on grass, tree branches and other, they will not know how that differs from chewing on the leg of your coffee table. We hear this question a lot. They do appear to be different.However, the difference is actually in the jaw structure of this breed and how the jaw sits. Per breed standards, the bite is undershot. This is a desired trait and proper breeding is done to preserve this element of the Boxer's appearance. This means that the lower jaw juts out a bit past the upper jaw. As it does, it curves slightly upward. This gives the Boxer its distinct look.And because of this unique facial structure, one may assume that the Boxer teeth themselves are different in structure. Now, with this being said, an adult Boxer has the same set of teeth as any other medium to large breed dog: Newborns are born with no teeth at all. They are present under the gums but at birth, have not erupted yet. By the age of 6 week, most of the milk teeth will be there. There will be 6 incisors the front ones on both the top and the bottom for a total of .To the sides of the incisors will be the premolars, 3 on each side, on both top and bottom. There will be Boxer teeth 28 in total for the puppy. Teething begins when the milk teeth fall out and are replaced by canines adult, permanent Boxer teeth. This phase happens at approximately 5 months of age, but there can be early bloomers 4 months or late bloomers months. If a puppy has not begun to lose their milk teeth by the age of 7 months, it is strongly recommended to have a veterinarian perform a dental check to look for potential issues that would be preventing this natural stage in the Boxer's teeth. Once all of the Boxer's teeth have broken through the gums, the adult will have a set of .There will be 6 incisors on the top and another 6 on the bottom as before, but of course, these will be larger to accommodate the larger jaw. There will be 4 premolars as opposed to 3 on both top and bottom. Additional Boxer teeth for the adult dog will be the molars. There will be 2 on each side on the top.And 3 on each side on the bottom of the dog's mouth. The total will be .The 4th premolar on the top and the 1st molar on the bottom combine to create what is called the Carnassial teeth. This is the term given to these particular Boxer teeth which are the largest of all and work well to slice through food. Yellow, Decayed or 'Rotted' Teeth Some owners become concerned when they realize that their Boxer's teeth do not look healthy. The color may be yellow, the gums may bleed, teeth may be crooked.This can all be attributed to poor dental care or a complete lack of dental care. Sadly, this is sometimes not noticed until it is too late. At this point, teeth may need to be pulled and medication given to clear up infections which can spread to other areas of the body. Before and even after these procedures, eating and chewing can be impaired. The best method to make sure that the teeth of a Boxer stay clean, straight and healthy is to provide DAILY dental care at home.And to allow for 1 professional cleaning 1 time per year. It only takes a few minutes to perform this element of grooming and makes a HUGE difference in the health and appearance of the Boxer. Dental care for Boxer dogs should begin from the day that you bring your dog into your family. There is no age in which a Boxer dog is not vulnerable to canine tooth decay. What is the difference between human tooth care and dog tooth care? With dogs, very few will ever get cavities. However, it is plaque, tarter and bacteria build up that can cause serious health problems. Doesn't a dog clean their teeth when they chew on bones? This is a common misconception. Some dog treats and certain quality toys will help clean a dog's teeth a bit, by loosening plaque. They will not clean the teeth enough to prevent eventual infection and decay. Dogs can develop some pretty serious ailments if they do not receive these regular brushings. Some chews work to scrape the teeth to a certain degree. This is good for your Boxer dog, but not enough. For excellent oral health, daily care must be taken to keep teeth and gums clean and healthy. This routine should be as normal as taking your dog for a walk or feeding him dinner. Won't it take up too much time to keep cleaning my Boxer dog's teeth? Once a dog is trained to sit nice, this will only take about 5 minutes per day and can save your dog's life. Once you fall into a normal schedule, this should become as natural as any other grooming or care element. What do I do if my Boxer hates having his teeth cleaned? Not to worry. With repetition, just about every dog can be trained to sit nice while you brush his teeth just like dogs learn to sit for grooming of the coat. All this takes is your effort to not give up on doing this task and allow your dog a week or so to become used to it. Before you begin, some things to remember: Never use human toothpaste. Canine specific toothpaste is not a marketing scheme or an unnecessary product. Human tooth paste is dangerous to dogs. Because so much of the paste can be swallowed, the build up of ingested ingredients can be toxic. While smaller breeds would be more likely to become ill.Do not take a chance with your Boxer's health and please purchase a high-quality canine toothpaste. Begin as soon as possible. Puppies that are taught to have their teeth cleaned will grow up knowing it is a normal part of their day. Do not give up if your dog tries to run away from you when you begin; with time and repetition a dog will learn that it is a routine part of the day. What You Will Need: A finger brush for dogs - this can be used first, if your Boxer dog is not used to having his teeth cleaned A dog tooth brush - Much different than a human brush, you should make all attempts to train up to the level of using a dog tooth brush Canine tooth paste - never underestimate the importance of using this How to Brush Your Boxer's Teeth Step-by-Step Have all needed supplies on hand Have your Boxer sit Give the "Open mouth" command and use your hand to manipulate the jaw open; within a week or so a dog will begin to learn to do this himself with very little strength needed on your part Brush swiftly and firmly on all surfaces of the teeth. Do not just brush the front ones! Do the front and both sides. You can hum to calm your Boxer puppy or dog down or simply speak in a matter-of-fact way After a full minute or so, wipe out the mouth with a wet washcloth; but don't worry that paste is being swallowed since a good canine brand will be perfectly edible and digestible Offer praise and a treat preferably a dental hygiene treat if your Boxer at least made an effort. What if my Boxer dog refuses to let me use a brush? Some dogs can be very stubborn. It is recommended to keep at it, but allow 2 weeks for each step. If that fails, you should then try using dog dental wipes. These are special wipes made for a dog's teeth. It will wipe off bacteria and will clean to a certain extent. It is very important that you schedule a once-a-year dental appointment with your dog's veterinarian and not only go if there is a problem. This yearly cleaning will remove buildup that daily cleaning simply cannot do. The vet will also be able to determine if there are any issues developing that need special care. If there are any serious problems,the vet will most likely refer you to a canine orthodontist. As a pup grows, works their way through the teething process and becomes an adult dog, they will have 42 permanent adult canine teeth. A puppy will begin to lose his or her temporary teeth at the age of 4 months. Aside from losing them, new ones will be growing in as well. The back molars will begin to poke through the gums at the approximate age of 6 months. Learn how to help your dog get through this stage of discomfort and pain. A dog will chew just about anything to help relieve the negative sensations. However, with some planning ahead of time and some easy training, your puppy will not destroy your home and you will be able to help your dog cope. Boxer teething time can be one of the largest hurdles that you and your dog will overcome; fortunately this phase is temporary. Teething and chewing problems can occur if an owner does not know how to help their dog cope with this stage. When a puppy is teething, without planning and training, he will chew on just about anything that he can get his mouth on. The urge to chew and gnaw is quite strong. As a Boxer owner, it will be your job to: Train your puppy what is not appropriate to chew on Offer the correct alternatives, so that the puppy has plenty of choices for other objects to chew on Training Patience and consistency will always be the 2 most important elements when training a dog to do anything, this included. Your dog has no idea that he is not supposed to chew on your favorite shoes; he is just trying to relieve his pain. A careful eye must be kept on your puppy so that you can stop him the moment he even thinks about chewing on something other than your pre-planned and purchased chew toys. As soon as your Boxer pup opens his mouth to take a nice bite out of your sofa or wants to gnaw on your hand, you must immediately say "No! The tone of your voice is very important. If "No! This command word will be one of great importance that is used in countless situations. Your dog must understand from the tone and the actions that you make that you mean business when you say this. After saying the command word to your dog: If he already has an object in his mouth - take the object away. Do not allow your puppy to engage you in a game of tug-of-war. A puppy will see that as fun and try to provoke this game as often as they can. As soon as you have the non-approved object away from your pup, immediately give him one of the approved chewing and teething dog toys. Say "Here's your toy" in a happy and excited tone. As your Boxer begins to chew on it, praise him for being a good dog. If your puppy is just about to grab onto an un-approved object, distract him. Say his name loudly to get your dog's attention. Then, immediately give your dog 1 of his chewing and teething toys. Again, say "Here's your toy" in a very pleasant tone and praise him for using it. If your Boxer puppy nips and gnaws on you, try to resist the urge to swat at him. A dog does not learn very much from an owner hitting him; even if the swat is a light one. All this will do is teach your Boxer to be afraid of you and it does not show very much will power on your side. If you want your dog to have control over his behavior, so must you as an owner. The correct training method is to say "No! Then, immediately give him his dog teething toy. Some are colorful pieces of rubber that are basically worthless. Owners are attracted to them because of the colors or perhaps because of the fun and amusing names of them. However, to truly help your Boxer puppy with the teething stage, a puppy must have a large supply of proper dog toys that are designed to help him. What are the perfect types of teething toys for your puppy? They will have 3 characteristics: 1 They will be able to be put into a freezer. Many of these will be filled with water, thus allowing the freezing method to work very well. Chewing on a cold object will help tremendously. It must be shaped in a way that allows your dog to use it to get right onto the gum that is in between teeth and to reach any area that is causing discomfort. What If I am Not Home? Just as you must plan for house training your Boxer even at times that you are not home, you must allow prepare for this. A Boxer puppy can be put into a gated area. However, that area should contain plenty of proper dog toys. To leave your puppy without resources to soothe itchiness and sore gums is just plain cruel. How long is too long to stay home alone? A 4 month old puppy, if going into the gated off area immediately after eliminating, can only hold on for 4 hours. An hour is added for each month your puppy grows older. Creating a space for your dog inside the home can work out nicely. This can be a spare room or this can be the corner of a room. Gates can be used to section this area off or a puppy play pen can be used. This will allow your pup to have plenty of space to walk around, play, rest and sleep and room for plenty of the dog toys. Adult Chewing Your Boxer will stop teething at approximately 7 months of age. However chewing may not stop if your dog has not been taught to use his or her toys in certain situations. When a adult dog chews this is usually caused by: Boredom Anxiety As a medium breed dog, a Boxer may be kept outside at certain times, given that the environment and temperature is safe and correct. However, a dog left alone for too long outside will make for a very bored dog. If your dog is bored outside and chews on grass, tree branches and other, he will not know how that differs from chewing on the leg of your coffee table. Whether you choose to keep your dog outside, inside or both, an owner must supply plenty of toys along with other essentials. See Also: Boxer dog internal stomach blockage - What can happen if you don't proof the house. Boxer Dog chewing and teething November 5, by John Every one of you is aware of the teething process, as and when, it is get started in your baby. With the passage of time, the puppy gets older and the teething process is also beginning. Well, this is a real testing time for the owner or keeper of the boxer. Side by side, in this period, your darling puppy can feel annoyance and impatience. Because, in the teething period, the puppy starts chewing everything that comes to its range. Also it can nip you as well. Now it is the temperament of the owner, which makes the things normal. Never castigate your puppy, but you need to train and redirect him with patience. It is a normal behavior and the big mouth of your boxer is actually the exploring tool through which he wants to quench the thirst of its curiosity. As an older teeth falls, the new one starts growing the same time. When your puppy will reach up to 6 months, the large and flat molars will also begin to appear from its gums. During this period, your puppy might face infuriation, toothache and displeasure. Now to appease the soreness, your boxer will chew anything. But always remember, this is a temporary situation. Things will become normal soon. It is suggested, this problem can be adjusted with some correction and training and there will occur no harm in your bond with your puppy. Give proper training to your puppy The best way is obviously to teach your boxer puppy in a gentle and pleasing manner. Offer him with the suitable alternatives to chew on. And repeat this all with consistency during the teething period. Your boxer will jump on anything to chew as its gums are really irritant so he or she has no idea, what is to be chewed and what not to be. Your puppy is just relieving its pain. So the training is must, otherwise, your puppy will develop this as its favourite habit and it will prevail even in its adulthood. Make sure there is no medical issue with your boxer It is always better to have a medical examination of your puppy in the teething stage. Because sometimes the nutritional deficiencies caused by inappropriate diet might also result in bad chewing. Even there could be gastrointestinal problems in your puppy, so better is to consult with your veterinarian. Remove all other objects in which your puppy might take interest such as shoes and socks, the toys and entertaining stuff of your kids. Also restrain him in accessing to the places which it can be really dangerous for your puppy. Persuade and support him in substitute chewing Always persuade and support your puppy in chewing the harmless and alternative items, toys and other suitable stuff. Some colourful and attractive toys can be so appealing for your puppy. You should have a reasonable quantity of the dog-toys at your home, when you are growing up a boxer puppy. Some frozen liquids are really supportive in the chewing process. All the dog toys should be really solid as those will be in the continuous usage by your boxer. It is even better, if it is having a very low fat and longer in size chewing stuff which is also reachable to the gum of your boxer and it is also stretchable to the itching zone of the jaw. Also discourage your boxer in chewing the unsuitable things Whenever the young chap is about to take an unsuitable or damaging item in its mouth to chew, you should discourage him by a strong tone. If he is still disobeying, take the object slightly out from its mouth and keep a continuous check on your puppy. At the same time, offer him with a real alternative toy in a loving and affectionate way. Because, in this way, your boxer will never learn. Instead, he will become frightened of you. Spend cheerful time with your puppy Be jolly to your puppy in the teething period. Remember, your puppy is a real exuberant, frisky and playful mate. He or she needs attention and will always require fun time. Even if you are away from home, provide your puppy with an area or space in which lots of toys are available. Normally, the boxer puppy stops chewing at the age of months. But its habit of chewing will remain existing, if it is not given the satisfactory training during its childhood. If you keep engaging your puppy in the teething period with fun and exercises, it will not only help you in avoiding the unwanted situations occurring due to the un-suitable chewing, but also boast up the young pup and build a strong and confident personality of your boxer. This will also surely enhance the solicitous and warm-hearted relationship between you and your boxer. Conclusion When will my Boxer puppy lose its teeth? Boxers will grow two sets of teeth throughout their life. The first one is the milk teeth and the other one is adult and permanent choppers. To give way to their adult teeth, Boxer puppies will shed their milk teeth just like any dog. All the 28 temporary baby teeth will fall off within their first 3 to 4 months of life. Also, you may find the shed teeth all over your floor in the coming weeks. Once your Boxer reaches three months old, its permanent incisors will erupt. This will be followed by the canines in their fourth month of life. Moreover, the premolars and molars will erupt last. Overall, the process will take a total of six months. By the end of the teething phase, your Boxer puppy should have 42 adult teeth already. Take note that there could be complications along the way like some baby teeth not falling off as expected. In this case, your Boxer puppy will need a vet visit for the manual removal of the retained milk teeth. Overall, teething is one of the first hurdles your Boxer puppy will have to face. Proper care and management are crucial to help your pooch get through teething with the least possible discomfort. As the milk teeth sheds and the adult ones erupt, your pup will experience gum discomfort. This will lead to excessive chewing, biting, and drooling. Protect your furniture The first thing you need to do is puppy-proof your furniture. This is to prevent your Boxer pup from chewing and damaging the item. You can spray bitter apple on the feet of your furniture to discourage your Boxer pup from chewing it. Bitter apple is a safe formula that has an awful taste that canines hate. This will help save your precious couch from being shredded or your furniture from getting chewed. Provide chew toys Chew toys are indispensable when caring for a teething Boxer puppy. Take note that chew toys for teething puppies should be soft. Give tug-of-war toys Tug-of-war ropes are also helpful for teething Boxer puppies. Aside from that, tug-of-war games help teach your dog how to release a bite. The cold temperature help soothes their inflamed and achy gums. For this, you can freeze slices of banana, carrots, apples, blueberries, and strawberries. In case you run out of these frozen treats, a few pieces of ice cube will do the trick. This can also help your Boxer pup cool down during summer. Keep your pup busy Lastly, keeping your Boxer puppy busy can help take its mind off chewing. Exercise, playtime, and mental drills will help a lot for this doggo. Take note that the Boxer breed is naturally energetic. Playing Frisbee, running in the dog park, and having agility drills indoors are also effective routines. Here are a few tips to keep your Boxer pups teeth clean and healthy: 1. This way, your pooch will get used to the sensation as it grows older. This will help make the dog calmer and accustomed to being restrained while brushing its teeth. For your Boxer, choose the flavor that it likes best. Through this, your pet will find dental care a rewarding experience. It will also make your Boxer more cooperative during brushing. It usually comes with a delicious flavor, though you can also opt for the unflavored type. As your dog drinks the additive, it will help remove bacteria and potentially slow down the formation of plaque. Just make sure that you use an additive made specifically for canines. Provide chew toys Chew toys are useful even after your Boxer is done teething. Aside from that, the chew toy satisfies the natural instincts of Boxers to chew. This is formulated with ingredients that help reduce plaque and curb bad breath. But unlike other treats, dental treats should only be given once a day. This is to prevent stomach upset on the part of your canine. This will let you notice any changes that may point to a health problem. This simple habit can help you save hundreds of dollars from expensive vet treatments because you failed to spot early signs of tooth problems. This is a preventive measure to avoid the formation of plaque, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Take note that as your Boxer gets older, it would be more prone to dental problems. Annual checks will help prevent or slow down these issues. Are Boxers chewers? Boxers are powerful chewers and they can be pretty destructive if not trained well. They can cause a great deal of damage to your furniture, especially when left alone for long periods. This is the reason why Boxers require a dedicated owner who will take the time to train them. Also, Boxers need regular companionship or they will become destructively anxious. Overall, Boxers could remain chewers even after the teething phase. Why do Boxer puppies bite so much? Biting is common among puppies, including the Boxer breed. Puppies use their mouths to interact and explore around, not to mention that they get very excited about almost anything. Are Boxer dogs destructive? Boxers can be very destructive dogs if not trained well. Also, leaving this dog alone for long hours can lead to behavioral problems like destructive chewing. Take note that while Boxers are affectionate dogs, they require early and continuous training just like any breed. This is to curb potential behavioral problems like chewing. They require an owner who can provide training and enough mental stimulation that matches their breed. Do puppies swallow their baby teeth? Usually, milk teeth will become uprooted while your dog is chewing its food or toy. How long does the puppy chewing stage last? Puppy chewing usually lasts until the teething phase is over. This is usually around six months of age. However, if you failed to train your Boxer, its chewing habit may stick and become a behavioral problem. In this case, your pup may become destructive around the house. The key here is early and continuous training. Conclusion When do Boxer puppies lose their teeth? The teething phase starts at around 3 months old and finishes at 6 months. You can provide frozen treats, chew toys, and other activities that will help it through the uncomfortable process. Most of all, you should involve the veterinarian in the process. Written By.

Why should you consider French Bulldog puppies from happykennels. Is their more than 1 breeder for site or kennel? I was a licensed French bulldog breeder through Pinellas Animal Control for 14 years. My license number was .For past 2 years, I've been breeding in the Tampa Bay area. I don't breed a cheap French Bulldog. I have a quality bloodline. Bloodline is the most important factor when owning a French Bulldog. A healthy French Bulldog bloodline is key! French Bulldogs are by far the most awesome dog to be part of anyone's family. Breeding rights are NOT given. I will always be here for my pups and or help to their families regarding questions or concerns. Red is not a fad color. A Furever Friend There is a reason why French Bulldog puppies have become so many folks favorite dog. Any first timers, I promise you will understand within a week of having one. They are people pleasing manipulators with unconditional love. They know how to work a crowd or individual. First week around new environment, they are so good and study everything you may like or dislike and they will remember it. Bullheaded, clownish, mischievous, lover baby, couch potato is just a start to their shenanigans. They will end up knowing you better than you know you and make you laugh, cry and proud maybe all in the same day. For an emotional support animal, there is no better choice. They are a natural as long as they had a proper upbringing. Along with very little grooming and exercise required, they will charm you with their le chic. Luckily, I have French Bulldog puppies for sale in Florida. Only thing better than having one os two. Sign Up For Updates Be the first to hear about new litters, availability, and helpful pet advice. Our stud Power is a thick and wrinkly handsome Blue Fawn! She produces the cutest little puppies! MooMoo Milkshake Our beautiful MooMoo is such a good mama and when paired with the right stud she produces beautiful litters! Reviews Take a moment to read through what our Frenchie Family has to say about working with us! I have always wanted a Frenchie and waited over a year to buy from her for a reason. She produces healthy and adorable French Bulldogs. We drove from Colorado to Florida for a reason and will only buy from her. She still helps with any questions we have and always checks in on how we are doing! I would recommend Frenchies to anyone wanting a great experience and perfect Frenchie! Nichole is a french Bulldog expert who is genuinely enthusiastic about the breed. Her affection for Frenchies is palpable! If you value working with someone honest, a healthy and well-balanced puppy raised in a clean, loving environment then Nichole at Frenchies is the obvious choice. We are eternally grateful to Nichole for our beautiful Machkenzie Rose! She is the perfect addition to our family. I've had the best experience with Frenchies. They have by far the cutest and healthiest puppies out there. I'm a first time Frenchie owner and Nichole was great throughout the entire adoption process. She continues to be a valued resource by answering my inquires and offering up suggestions as I learn more about my pups behavior, habits and disposition. I highly recommend anyone serious about adopting a French Bulldog to check out their instagram page and get in contact with Nichole. You won't regret it! Lisa Matthew.

Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Height: 26 inches Ratio: .This should give you their height. For example, 26 inches times 0. Using the other example, .Since each dog is going to be different, you need to look at their overall body condition rather than a weight range. Fortunately, there are body conditioning charts that you can use to figure out if your German Shepherd is at their ideal weight. Just look at them from the side and from above, feeling for ribs and pelvic bones when necessary. Younger dogs will also typically be on the thin side before they fully fill out as adults. Years of line breeding has produced several distinct types of Shepherds. Show dogs are known for a sloped back in which the back legs are shorter than the front. This unnatural formation can cause back and hip problems along with an abnormal gait. German Shepherds bred for show will also be thinner than their hardworking cousins. As you can see in this picture, this is a show-bred German Shepherd with an obvious curved back and short back legs. Working dogs, on the other hand, are bred for a sturdy, straight back so they can work long hours without getting sore. They tend to be thicker than show dogs and will, therefore, weigh more, even at the same height. As you can see in this picture, this dog has a straighter back and longer back legs, so it has been bred for working. Something else I wanted to mention here is that, according to some sources, Black German Shepherds are larger than their bi-colored cousins, despite being otherwise the same. So, if you have one of these rare and beautiful creatures, you can follow the same charts that were listed above. If your German Shepherd is diagnosed by a veterinarian as underweight or overweight for their age, then the first thing you should do is ask him or her to help you figure out the underlying cause of the problem. This will determine what should be done next. Do you have a giant German Shepherd? What about a tiny one? Comment below to tell us more about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. American German shepherds have straighter backs then German shepherds. If you have a german shepherd and their lineages are close to their German roots they will have that arch in their back. As the German Shepherd growth chart suggests, a German Shepherd dog reaches full size and adult weight after one year. A growth spurt can occur between 1. The result of this late growth is an up to 10 percent increase in height and weight. Although you can consider a German Shepherd fully grown by one year, there may be additional factors that influence the growth of German Shepherd dogs. Is Your German Shepherd Healthy? Improper development can occur for many reasons. It could be as simple as your dog responding poorly to their dog food. Your feeding schedule and portions might not be sufficient. Your dog could also have a basic nutritional deficiency that you need to correct. Yet, being underweight or overweight can signify serious health problems. Weight loss can occur when the syndrome develops. Dogs typically show signs of EPI at between six months and six years of age. Parasites Dogs are highly susceptible to parasites. Deworming medication helps to reduce the risk. Yet, almost all puppies experience a parasitic infection at least once. Upon infection, your dog is at risk of serious weight loss and other troubling symptoms. Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes mellitus can affect any breed but has an above-average occurrence in German Shepherds. These dogs need insulin daily to accommodate for the inability to metabolize sugars. If your German has diabetes, severe weight loss can occur in a short period. Diabetes typically affects canines that are four years or older. It is the most common cancer in German Shepherds. Up to three percent will develop HSA. In most cases, this condition sets in at around nine to 12 years. Dietary Deficiency Do you have your German Shepherd on a raw food diet? Puppies often run underweight when receiving their nutritional requirements through raw meat. This diet is healthy and effective but needs monitoring, as not all dogs respond the same. Review the diet plan with a veterinarian and confirm there are no digestive or metabolic issues. Also, do not forget the importance of exercise! Clear Your Concerns with Coverage You put your heart into loving your dog like a child, but some things are out of your control. Health struggles can affect canines as much as humans. Even purebreds from AKC-certified breeders are not safe from serious health struggles both early and late in life. All you can do is prepare yourself to overcome complications. What if cancer happens? What else could happen? Peace of mind is great as a dog owner. Is coverage the answer? Get pet insurance quotes and see for yourself. Get Quotes for Your Cat Charitable Giving With every pet insurance policy we generate, we do our bit to help less fortunate animals across Canada and the U. Popular Articles. How about some details regarding their feeding habits, behavior, medical needs, grooming regimen, and exercise requirements? In this section, you will find everything you need to know to keep them healthy and assist with things such as toilet training and teething. She will discipline them and make sure they learn to be independent. They then begin to go to the toilet independently and venture away from mom. At week 8, they play, can be housebroken, and bark when startled. The famous GSD ears will start to stand up, and you can begin leash and crate training. They must be handled and groomed and realize that human commands and dominance are the norm. During this time, the mother will nurse the pups until they are old enough to begin eating puppy mush , which is softened kibble. Allow puppies to eat as much as they like at each meal. At 6—8 weeks, their first shot from the vet is due. Smith, Shutterstock 12 weeks is a turning point for your pup. Their coordination will come on in bounds, as will their learning and social skills. They will be eager to learn but easily distracted, so have plenty of patience. If you become angry, it will stunt development if they become fearful of you. Your pup is officially into the juvenile period now. All of his puppy teeth should be developed by now and are normally very sharp. So, beware of your fingers when playing. At 12 weeks of age, puppies can start to eat three to four set meals a day with measured amounts. Purpose-made dog-approved chew toys are best, not teddy bears or old shoes. As they grow through this period between three and six months, GSD puppies are more juvenile than babies. They will be more boisterous and energetic. But on the plus side will feed easily, be more friendly with animals and people alike, and more than likely be housetrained if you have managed them correctly. They will be stubborn at this age when training and could ignore you, or not come when called. The best approach is to ignore any sassy attitude and only praise and fuss when back to being obedient. His internal organs and systems are fully developed and functioning as they should, while the skeleton is still growing. His full set of adult teeth should be present and correct. Your GSD is now becoming independent and will want to roam different areas and interact with their world on many more levels. Be aware that they could weigh 50 lbs at 6 months, so caution is needed with control and safety as they explore. He may also seemingly forget commands that he has been taught. It is best to ignore, not mollycoddle, any fearful reactions to new things to not reinforce the negative behaviors. By 6 months of age, you can reduce the feedings to three per day, now paying attention to the total calories consumed. Between the ages of 4—6 months, he will shed his puppy coat too. He might still be a bit goofy, gangly, and stubborn when it comes to training. German Shepherd females are reaching sexual maturity at this age. They may have their first estrus heat period. So, be mindful of letting them off the lead during this time if other dogs are around. At 9 months, your GSD can be tested for heartworm and treated if needs be. Speak with your vet about this for more detail. You can add small amounts of solid adult formula into the puppy food to get him used to the texture. Making it the optimal time to stimulate them as much as you can with obedience training and work activities. Your GSD should be comfortable in all situations, and with all types of company as their bond with humans should be well established. Their unique personality and quirks should be apparent and set them apart as your dog. They will have developed vocal and body language traits that you recognize and use for their needs. If male, he will be reaching sexual maturity and cocking his leg when urinating. He might also be looking to challenge dogs and humans for the title of pack leader. The key to cementing all your hard work so far is to be consistently firm with any boundaries he tries to push. By 12 months, they should be on adult formula only. German Shepherds stop growing between 2 and 3 years. This is when they fill out too. It starts to slow at around the age of 1, but he will continue to grow until he reaches maturity. During this time, they are considered to be adolescents. This is the same for their mental maturity too. This is the same for all German Shepherd types. Females tend to mature faster, both physically and mentally, than male German Shepherds. There are different stages within this time frame before maturity. And these are the neonatal stage 1—2 weeks , the transitional stage 2—4 weeks , the socialization stage 4 weeks to 3 months , the juvenile stage 3—6 months , and the adolescent stage 6 months to 2 years. Research has shown that neutering dogs can affect their growth. But how exactly? But early indications show that early neutering can increase the length of time that the bone grows. Meaning potentially taller dogs. But this also poses questions about whether this affects the joint alignment and whether it can cause any problems. And for the German Shepherd breed and his heightened propensity for hip dysplasia, this is a concern to be aware of. But waiting for full skeletal maturity also poses risks. Because neutering for females can reduce mammary cancer. If spayed before her first heat, it can eliminate the chances of this type of cancer altogether. As they will be able to offer you tailored advice for your German Shepherd. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth The dangers of growing too fast can affect their skeletal development. Conditions caused by growing too quickly are joint dysplasia and osteochondrosis. By feeding him a kibble that is designed for large-breed puppies will help control the rate at which his bones grow. This is because they have the optimum ratio of calcium and phosphorus levels in the food. So, always feed him large-breed puppy food during his developmental stage. This is most common in German Shepherds, but also in some Labrador Retrievers. It is an inherited disorder of growth hormone deficiency, and it will make the affected pooch always appear puppy-like. Growth Distinctions of Different German Shepherds. Frequently Asked Questions German Shepherds German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular breeds and are my absolute favorite breed. That's why I've had five in total, three boys and two girls. From their loyal and obedient personalities to their beautiful coats and markings, they bring joy to many homes, including mine. With impressive intelligence, these puppies are easy to train and make excellent companion animals. The German shepherd is a large breed, usually weighing between pounds for males and up to 75 pounds for females. Their coats require minimal grooming but will benefit from occasional brushing. German shepherds are very active dogs who love to run around; they need plenty of exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. They also enjoy activities such as agility training or nose work games where they can use their smarts! Factors Influencing Weight But what about their size? German shepherds can vary in size based on gender, age, nutrition, and because of their breeding. For example, a German working line shepherd is much more energetic than the more laid-back American show line dog. A puppy from working lines may weigh less than the average on the charts. Be sure to consider factors such as gender and environment when monitoring your pup's development. A good rule of thumb is that by eight weeks of age, a German Shepherd puppy should weigh between pounds, depending on the genetic factors mentioned above. By six months, most male puppies will weigh between 49lbs — 57lbs with an average weight of 53lbs, and a female will weigh between 44lbs — 49lbs with an average weight of 46lbs. For this reason, when consulting a weight chart for a German shepherd puppy, it's essential to understand the breed, lineage, and pedigree of the dog, as well as the sex of the dog. Our puppy weight charts are specific to German Shepherd Dogs and consider all these factors. It's an excellent tool for monitoring your pup's growth and health. These charts show the average expected weight range for male and female German shepherds at different ages, from puppies to adults. Knowing the expected range can help ensure your pup grows normally and stays within healthy boundaries. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. Our chart differs from others in that you can track your puppy's weight based on his actual weight at a point in time. Many other weight charts are either for non-specific breeds, or if they are specific to a German Shepherd, they only give you the averages and a range. While this is all useful and included in our charts, what is missing from many others is what weight your puppy will likely be based on his actual weight now. Most people bring their new puppy home at 8 weeks old 2 months. The range for a female German Shepherd puppy at that age is between lbs. As you already know your puppy's weight, you can estimate how much they are likely to weigh when older using our chart. For example, if your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old. To estimate how much they are likely to weigh at 6 months old, you would find that weight on the chart and follow it down to the 6-month-old row and see that she would most likely weigh 46lbs by the time she is 6 months old and 68lbs when fully grown. Of course, these are just estimates, and all puppies grow at different speeds, as will yours. Another way this chart is helpful is if, using the same example, your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old and then jumps to 49 lbs at 6 months old, instead of the predicted 46 lbs. In that situation, you would follow that new column down and see that she is now closer to weighing 70 lbs when fully grown. They are heavier-boned, more muscular, and have deeper chests. If you know what you're looking for, you can distinguish a male from a female German shepherd by looking at their heads, as a male is larger and have a more masculine look. Using the German Shepherd Puppy Weight Charts To use this chart, find your pup's current weight along the top and go down the left side of the chart to find his age. If he is in range, you can follow that column down to see what he will likely weigh at each age milestone. For example, if your male German Shepherd puppy weighs 18 lbs at 8 weeks old, then you would find the nearest weight at that age on the chart. In this case, it's .In this instance, he would weigh approximately .Under no circumstances should you try to adjust your dog's diet or exercise to fit in with the chart; it is merely a guide. German Shepherd Weight Chart for Female Puppies Female German shepherds, on the whole, have a much narrower head and nose and have an overall feminine look, especially around the eyes. If you know what you're looking for, you can guess whether they are male or female by looking at their face. Having said that, my girl, Ava, was very tall for a female and was often mistaken for a boy, even when she was wearing her pink collar and leash! But I still think her face was much more feminine than her brother Hudson's. This breed of dog has unique growth development. During the first three months of their life, a German Shepherd's body goes through a significant growth spurt. Typically, they can double their birth weight in the first week! At 12 weeks, you can expect your pup to weigh about pounds for a male and pounds for a female. This growth spurt will continue through five months old; by the time they're six months, you'll likely have a large, goofy puppy on your hands. After that initial growth period is over, you'll find that your German shepherd will gain weight slowly from then on out until it reaches its full adult size at around two or three years old. On average, female German Shepherds reach an adult weight of pounds, while males reach pounds. German Shepherd Puppy Height Chart German shepherds come in a range of sizes, some taller than others. It can be helpful to know the different heights of German shepherds to ensure that the one you choose fits your lifestyle and needs. When looking at a German shepherd height chart, it's essential to remember that males tend to be larger than females. Depending on where they were bred, most standard-sized male adults will stand between inches, while female adult German shepherds typically reach inches in height from paw to shoulder. Below is our height chart for German shepherd puppies you can use to estimate your puppy's height at each age milestone based on his starting or current height. It also includes the average percentage of adult height reached each age milestone. If your puppy's weight is outside the guidelines, it may be less of an issue than you think. Puppy weights can vary greatly depending on breed, genetics, and other factors included on this page. While ensuring your puppy receives proper nutrition and exercise is essential, several factors can influence their weight. One way to determine your puppy's adult weight is to check with your breeder. They can make an educated guess as to what your furry friend will weigh once they reach adulthood. A reputable breeder should have a good understanding of their dog's genetics and be able to provide insight into the typical size range of their litter. This information can give you a rough estimate of what weight you can expect for your German shepherd as they grow older. Another factor to consider when determining the adult weight of your pup is their parents' size, and again the breeder can give you much more information on this. You can also speak with your veterinarian about your puppy's overall health and development, and they may be able to provide some insight into their expected adult size. It's important to avoid becoming too fixated on your puppy's weight if they fall outside the standard guidelines. Don't worry if your puppy is a little bigger or smaller than listed here, and if you still want to determine their adult weight, you can also use the puppy weight chart for a large or giant breed dog here. Conclusion In conclusion,German Shepherds are a fantastic breed of dogs, and understanding their growth and development is essential for pet owners. Knowing the average weight and height of male and female German Shepherds can help you be better prepared for your new pup's growth. With the proper diet, exercise, and vet care, your German shepherd will be healthy and happy throughout their life. Keep in mind that these charts are only a general guide — every pup is different! A 3-month-old German Shepherd should weigh between 17 lbs - 26 lbs for a female, with an average weight of .For males, it'll be between 22 lbs and 30 lbs, with an average of 26 lbs. How much does a 5 month old German Shepherd puppy weigh? A 5-month-old puppy will weigh between 40 lbs - 49 lbs for a male with an average weight of .A female GSD puppy will weigh between 35 lbs - 44 lbs with an average of .When will my German shepherd puppy stop growing? Most German shepherd puppies continue growing until they are two or three years old. You might like these. However, there are certain breeds that are easier to train than others. Thankfully, German Shepherds fit into that category because they are very intelligent and quick learners. This includes house training , crate training , basic obedience commands as well as learning tricks. We recommend attending a puppy kindergarten class as part of your German Shepherd puppy socialization strategy. Once your pup knows their basic obedience commands, you can enroll them in Schutzhund training aka IPO. Partnership and teamwork between yourself and your dog are the basis for this type of training. Note that the Schutzhund environment is not a place for dogs with aggression issues, neither towards other dogs nor people! If they pass that initial level which includes a temperament test, they can move on to IPO 2 minimum age 19 months and IPO 3 minimum age 20 months. That said, protection dog trainers recommend starting training classes that include bitework and high jumps once your German Shepherd puppy is 12 months old. Dutch and Czech are two other languages that commands are frequently taught in. Stanley, my former long-haired GSD dog walking client, started going to Schutzhund training when he was a little over 12 months old. His owners practiced commands in German with him on a daily basis, and I remember getting a print out of his German commands as they asked me to use them on our walks as well. Lots, ha! German Shepherds need a minimum of 2 hours of physical exercise per day, but generally speaking, the more exercise you can provide your GSD with, the more they will thrive. Remember, German Shepherds are high-energy, athletic dogs bred to be active all day long, especially if they come from a working line! Physical Exercise Ideas for German Shepherds As far as physical exercise, this can be a mix of walks, runs, bike rides, fetch and playtime. This is Nala, one of my former pet sitting clients. She was crazy about frisbees and balls. One of my favorite ways of increasing the energy and calories a dog burns on a regular walk or hike is by using a doggie backpack. Mental Stimulation for German Shepherds Besides providing a good physical workout, dog backpacks also burn mental energy. As you probably know, bored dogs can quickly become destructive as they figure out ways of entertaining themselves. For example, chewing up your furniture and shoes, scratching doors, raiding your kitchen trash can or digging up your flower beds. So do yourself a favor and make sure your GSD gets plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog, and that applies to German Shepherds as much as it does to any other dog breed! Former GSD client Remi pooped after a long walk. Bottom Line So, how big does a German Shepherd get? Well, German Shepherds are medium to large size dogs, so they can weigh anywhere between lbs. That said, the average expected weight for a male GSD is between lbs, and the average expected weight for a female GSD is between lbs. Both reach sexual maturity somewhere between months and are considered fully grown at about the 2 year mark. Keeping that in mind, your GSD breeder should be able to give you a good general idea of how big your German Shepherd puppy will grow to be! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Barbara is a trilingual, something dog lover, e-book author, founder, copywriter, dog nutrition blogger and editor at K9sOverCoffee. Post navigation.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. E-mail Share by e-mail German Shepherds make great family dogs — they are loyal, intelligent, and have lots of energy! A good diet is key to giving your pet a long and healthy life, and the wrong diet can lead to a number of health problems. German Shepherds are big dogs with active lifestyles, so making sure they get the right nutrition at different stages throughout their lives is essential. Feeding your German Shepherd Puppy Puppies are growing rapidly and have very specific nutritional requirements. Puppy food tends to be high in calories and protein as they are bundles of energy at this age! Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a good quality balanced diet is essential to ensure that they grow up to be healthy adults. There are some foods designed specifically for large breeds such as German Shepherds, which provide extra support for their growing joints. You should look out for these foods in the pet store and ideally choose one of these large breed diets. You can find further general puppy feeding guidelines and advice via the AKC as well as specific German Shepherd facts and info. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? Puppies need to be fed more frequently than adult dogs to support their rapidly growing bodies. German Shepherd puppies should be fed 4 meals a day until they are 3 months old, then reduce to 3 meals a day until they are 10 months old when their growth rate starts to slow down. Once they reach this age, they need 2 meals a day. When should I start feeding adult food? Puppies must stay on puppy food until they reach adult size. German Shepherds are large dogs and tend to reach adult size later than smaller dogs. They are usually fully matured at months. German Shepherds should stay on puppy food until they are months old, then they should move on to an adult diet. Feeding your adult German Shepherd An adult German Shepherd will weigh around lbs and need at least an hour of exercise every day, so their diet needs to reflect this. It might seem like your dog is eating a lot, but they need to replace the energy they burn off and eat enough of the right nutrients to sustain them! How often should I feed my German Shepherd? Adult dogs should be fed two meals a day. When should I switch from adult to senior food? As dogs get older their nutritional requirements change again. They are less active, and German Shepherds are more prone to joint problems such as osteoarthritis. You should consider switching to a senior diet at around 8 years of age. What type of food should German Shepherds eat? Whichever diet you pick, you should ensure it is suitable for large dogs or working breeds and that it has plenty of protein and calcium, and also includes some type of doggy superfoods, too. Commercially prepared foods are the best way to ensure your dog gets a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and they come in wet or dried forms. Some dogs prefer one or the other, whilst some enjoy a variety and mix of both. Dry Food Dried food is cheap, easy to feed and store, and has lots of benefits for your dogs. Dogs fed a dried food diet will drink more water, and you can soak the kibble to add a bit extra if you like. Wet Food Wet foods contain more water than dried, and often resemble meat which some dogs love. The food is usually in chunks with jelly or gravy, and some dogs prefer it to dried. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are large and active dogs with demanding nutritional requirements throughout their lives. They go through a rapid growth stage as puppies, and as adults need the right balance of nutrients to replenish the energy they burn off exercising. They need to eat a diet that has the right balance of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, and ensure they get the right number of meals a day to maintain good physical and mental health. Puppies should eat meals a day until they are around 10 months old then they should eat 2 meals a day as adults. Do German shepherds require a lot of food? German Shepherds are large dogs so naturally, eat larger portions than smaller breeds. They are active dogs and need lots of protein and energy to keep them healthy. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. So, how many times a day should you feed your German Shepherd? German Shepherds should be fed at least twice a day. Vets recommend two smaller meals instead of one large meal for healthy digestion and energy. For puppies, feed 4 meals a day up to three months old, then 3 meals a day up to six months old, before finally reducing to 2 meals a day. It is essential to stick to food schedules that are consistent for the long-term health of your German Shepherd, especially as the breed is prone to the life-threatening condition, Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus GDV , commonly known as bloat. This article will cover how often to feed a German Shepherd whether puppy or adult and how much to give your dog to keep him healthy and happy. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. My German Shepherd Willow eating her meal Hey! As a working breed raised to herd and protect sheep, they are typically energetic, enjoy physical activity, and love having a job to do. Due to their dynamic character, they demand a high-energy diet. However, as large, deep-chested dogs, they are one of the breeds prone to bloat GDV , and vets advise against feeding one large meal a day. Twice per day is the standard, with a good few hours in between, as it allows your GSD to eat and digest his food properly. German Shepherds, like most dogs, work well when fed on a schedule. I absolutely agree with this, especially as the German Shepherd is susceptible to a sensitive stomach and is known to have more digestive problems than other breeds. However, if you have any concerns, you should speak to your vet. If you have a high-energy or working German Shepherd, such as a guard dog, assistance dog, or Police or Military dog that gets a lot of exercise, you may consider feeding little and often to prevent hunger. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Schedule German Shepherd puppies will require more frequent feedings as they expend far more energy and have smaller stomachs to hold their food. You should feed a German Shepherd puppy four meals a day between 6 and 12 weeks old. Puppies aged between 12 and 24 weeks should have three meals a day, and from 24 weeks onwards, German Shepherd puppies should be fed twice per day. Age of Puppy. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading.

They are thought to be distantly related to the Pug ancestor of the Pugapoo and brought to Europe from Asia nearly 2, years ago. Impressed with their large size, Romans used the Mastiff to fight in arenas for entertainment. More recently, in the s and s, they were used for hunting bulls, bears, and lion baiting. They were also a common watchdog during this time. By the time the s rolled around, they were mainly used for guardians and as companion dogs. Commonly found in the homes of nobles, these dogs were known for being gentle and mild tempered. After this battle was won by the British, it was estimated that only 14 Mastiffs had survived in the entire country. The Mastiff population was rebuilt mainly by the U. Poodle Breed History: While commonly associated with the French, the Poodle actually originated as a duck hunter in Germany over years ago. Eventually, Poodles made their way from the lake to the life of luxury as they were the breed of choice by French nobles, and eventually royalty across all of Europe. To this day, the Poodle is still the national dog of France. The Toy Poodle started in the United States in the early 20th century to be a city-dwelling companion dog. After the Poodle gained popularity in the 60s and Poodle mixed breeds started gaining traction in the 80s, more and more breeding options became available. The Mastiff was just one of many to be bred with the Poodle in the late s. Mastidoodles tower over most other doodle breeds. With two big parents, that is to be expected. On average, the male Mastiff is between inches in height and the females, which are generally slightly larger, are between inches in height. Poodles are regarded as needing a lot of maintenance—more than most breeds. They generally need brushing almost daily. On the other hand, Mastiffs need to be brushed a few times a week. The amount of grooming that an individual dog needs depends on the dog itself. If the Mastidoodle puppy inherits more of a Poodle-like coat, it will need grooming more often. You can expect to have a Mastidoodle groomed every months, but in warmer climates it should be done closer to weeks to keep them cool. Are Mastidoodles Hypoallergenic? Do Mastidoodles Shed? No, Mastidoodles are usually not completely hypoallergenic. Because one parents is hypoallergenic and the other is not, there is no way to guarantee that the offspring will be hypoallergenic. Mastiffs shed rather heavily, while Poodles are hypoallergenic and shed minimally. Mastidoodle puppies will most likely shed less than a purebred Mastiff because it is mixed with the lower shedding breed of the Poodle. On average, they tend to live anywhere from years. However, all breeds have the possibility to develop some health problems. Some major concerns with the Poodle Mastiff Mix include entropion, elbow dysplasia, and canine hip dysplasia. Due to the cost of treating these common health concerns, we highly encourage all dog owners invest in pet insurance. We recommend getting a free online quote from Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. That being said, sometimes they forget how big they are, so ensure supervision around small children and elderly adults. These dogs love their families and are very loyal. This makes them good watch dogs. They will be quick to give a warning bark to any approaching danger and their size alone is intimidating. The Poodle is an especially smart dog breed, so frequent mental stimulation is important. Mastidoodle Dog Breed Activity Requirements: The Poodle requires a lot of physical activity, but the Mastiff only requires a moderate amount of activity. Expect to spend around an hour a day engaging your Mastidoodle in physical activity. This can include walks, jogs, a good game of fetch, or time to run around with friends in the dog park! Alternative Breeds to the Mastiff Poodle Mix. Lifespan Sociability Of all the mixed doodle breeds, this guy is certainly one of the rarest. This means that you need to be prepared for the long and hard search that is ahead. If you are impatient and are desperate for a dog to join your family in the next few months, this will not happen with the Mastidoodle. He is rare, but this is definitely a huge part of his appeal. It also goes without saying that the Mastidoodle is a huge dog. And do you know what giant dogs need? Lots and lots of space. He might not be as big as his Mastiff parent, but you can be sure that he is much bigger than his Poodle parent. The Mastidoodle can be an obnoxious dog if you allow him to be. For this reason, we suggest that that only an experienced dog owner takes him on. He will inherit a degree of stubbornness from his Mastiff parent, who is a strong-willed pooch. Thankfully, his smart Poodle genes should alleviate this, but do not expect a fully obedient dog in this guy. He can also become overprotective, too, if he is not trained and socialized adequately as a pup. He is courageous and takes his role as family protector very seriously. Thankfully, his Poodle genes will make him more accepting of strangers. The Mastidoodle needs more exercise than most giant dogs, and that is because of his Poodle parentage. Poodles are livewires who were traditional duck hunting dogs, and so they have a lot of working energy that they need to expel. If they become bored, they will leave a trail of destruction behind them. So, you need to be able to commit to time exercising him. He also needs more grooming compared to other dog breeds too. Again, you can blame the Poodle for this. His long and wavy curls need daily grooming to keep him looking his best and prevent any tangling. And with his big body, you can expect that it will take longer to brush him compared to a Chihuahua. The Mastidoodle may shed less than other dogs. His Poodle parent is a hypoallergenic dog, which means that he sheds less than most dog breeds. The Mastidoodle may or may not drool. To drool or not drool? That is the Mastidoodle question! And it is one that you will find out after welcoming him into your home. This means that you need to be prepared for a little doggy drool in your life. The Mastidoodle is genetically unpredictable. He is a mixed dog, and as such, he can take after either parent. As a rare hybrid breed, he will likely be a first-generation pup. This means that there is no breed standard and no expectations about which parent he may turn out like. Just like most giant dogs, the Mastidoodle is a sweet and gentle giant. He is one of the soppiest sweethearts in the canine kingdom, so you need to be prepared for the onslaught of puppy kisses! This is also great news for the younger ones in the house. When he ventures outside, he is lots of fun too. His well-balanced temperament means that he is suited to most families. The Mastidoodle is a very intelligent dog thanks to his Poodle parent, who is ranked as the second most intelligent dog on the planet. This means if you are after a fully obedient dog, you might want to stick to the purebred standard-sized Poodle. Thankfully, he will do as he is told most of the time. Are These Dogs Good for Families? As we have already mentioned, you just need to make sure that you have the right environment for him to do well. A large home with access to a large yard is one of his most essential requirements. But he also needs a family that can spend most of their time with him. As well as stimulate him throughout the day to prevent him from becoming bored and problematic. Because of his large size, you will need to supervise him just in case of accidental bumps with his big derriere. His protective Mastiff genes might make him wary of other animals, which is why his training is necessary. The only pet that he will not be able to live with is ducks and other birds. This is because of his Poodle parentage. His Poodle parent is a traditional German duck hunter, so you will need to keep him well away from ducks and other winged creatures. Things to Know When Owning a Mastidoodle: Now you know more about the Mastidoodle in all of his giant teddy bear glory, here is a list of his day-to-day needs. He will consume between four and five cups of food every day, depending on his age, size, and activity levels. Like his Mastiff parent, he is likely to be a greedy pup, and he will eat anything and everything in sight. If it fits in his mouth, he is going to swallow it. You should feed him a diet that is specifically designed for large breed puppies. This is particularly important during puppyhood. This is because they contain the optimum nutrients that large and giant dogs need, and they help to control his rapid bone growth. In turn, this could decrease his chances of developing bone diseases such as hip dysplasia. You need to set aside at least an hour every day for his exercise routine. But a long and brisk walk around your local park or neighborhood will suffice for most of the week. Because he is an intelligent and active dog, you should mix up his activities to keep him interested. A simple change of scenery or a frequent visit to a local doggy park to meet new friends will benefit him. And it will top up his socialization skills too. Being a doodle mix, he will be fond of the water, so you should try to include this in his exercise routine. He will love you for it, trust us. As you already know, his Mastiff genes might make him a little overprotective, but his Poodle influence should calm this down. Mix him with as many other dogs and animals as you possibly can when he is young, and this will teach him that most dogs are friends and not foe. Also, mix him with unfamiliar humans, as well as new sights and sounds, and this will increase his confidence too. He can be a stubborn dog, and so you need to be persistent with your training. Keep training sessions fun and engaging. And with a treat in your hand , he will do as you say, most of the time. He will usually inherit the Poodle curls, but he will have shorter hair like the Mastiff dog. You should invest in a comb or pin brush to keep matting at bay, and also a slicker brush to pick up all of his dead hair and any dirt. You should bathe him every six to eight weeks to keep him looking and smelling his best. Mastiffs are well known for their drooling potential, and many owners comment that they have a strong doggy odor. The Mastidoodle may or may not drool and smell more than most, but with frequent and thorough grooming, this should keep the smells at bay. When it comes to the drooling, a packet of tissues will do the job. This might seem short, but for a giant dog breed, this is slightly better than average. Keep this guy happy and healthy with regular exercise and the right nutrition, and you could keep him with you for longer. And be sure to keep up to date with trips to the vets. Minor Conditions. Mastidoodle breeders and puppies What is a Mastidoodle? A Mastidoodle is a Mastiff Standard Poodle mix. They are large, lean dogs with floppy ears and strong personalities. This cross breed is both recent and rare, with fans travelling long distances to find a puppy from these very different doggy lines. Purebreds vs Designer Dogs The Mastidoodle is classified as a designer breed. This means it is bred from two purebred dogs, in this case a Mastiff and a Poodle. The first part of making an informed decision is to be broadly aware of the perceived strengths and weaknesses of designer breeds in comparison to purebred dogs. The flip side is that purebred dogs can suffer from a range of health and physiological problems resulting from inbreeding. This research into pedigree dog preventative care provides an interesting insight into the breeding efforts to address purebred health challenges. Where Do Mastidoodles Come From? Mastidoodle were first developed as little as twenty years ago in the US. The main part of their history and heritage comes from their parent breeds. The Poodle is believed to have originated from Germany over years ago. This breed was developed to be a water hunting dog. When the Romans invaded Britain in 55 BC they encountered a huge and courageous dog which easily trounced Roman breeds. Unsurprisingly, the warlike Romans took some home with them and used them for fighting wild animals in the Coliseum. Over the centuries they became popular as guard dogs. How Big Are Mastidoodle Dogs? The Mastidoodle could weigh 55 to pounds and measure 15 to 30 inches tall. Its features will vary significantly depending on which of the parent breeds has greater influence. Standard Poodles stand around fifteen inches tall and weighs between fifty and seventy pounds. They have a well-proportioned, squarely built frame which gives the breed its proud, almost haughty stance. The Mastiff is a much larger dog. Its height typically reaches around 25 inches and its weight ranges between 55 and 75 pounds. This is an athletic dog with a strong musculature and an alert, agile bearing. Mastidoodle Appearance and Characteristics The Mastidoodle will typically have a domed forehead, drooping ears, and almond shaped eyes that are equal parts soulful and intelligent. Colors can be black, brindle or cream. The Mastidoodle is likely to be a large and solidly built dog, with a striking physical presence derived from both its muscular Mastiff and its proudly upright Poodle pedigrees. If your Mastidoodle puppy has inherited its coat from the Poodle side, its coat will be more wavy. You will need to groom at least every other day to deal with matting, burrs, and debris. Maybe the coat of your Mastiff Poodle mix comes more from the Mastiff side. Then its coat will be shorter, less wavy, and considerably easier to maintain. Are Mastidoodles Hypoallergenic? If they are at the curlier end of the spectrum they can be low shedding and therefore hypothetically a good match for owners with mild dog allergies. Mastidoodles Temperament Traits The Mastidoodle is intelligent, adaptable and forms strong bonds with their families. They are wary or aloof with strangers, and therefore benefit from plenty of socialization as puppies. People are often surprised at how patient and nurturing they are, given their imposing size. They love any kind of exercise and will happily run, swim, and retrieve. This mix can make great watchdogs, if not guard dogs too. Are Mastidoodles Aggressive? More vigilant than aggressive, they make great guard dogs and generally have a home-loving streak. The Mastiff x Poodle is intended to blend those traits. This results in an extremely affectionate and intelligent dog who develops a strong attachment with its family. Mastidoodle Training and Obedience Both Mastiffs and Poodles respond very well to positive reinforcement training. Given the likelihood that your Mastidoodle puppy will be an extremely bright and perceptive animal especially if its Poodle pedigree is dominant , you may also need to be creative in finding fresh challenges and approaches throughout the training process. Health Issues and Special Needs Beginning the process of looking for a Mastidoodle puppy and speaking with Mastiff Poodle cross breeders? Issues to consider with Mastidoodle dogs are: Elbow and hip dysplasia. What is a Bullmastidoodle? A Bullmastidoodle is a mix between a Bullmastiff and a standard Poodle. They typically weigh between to pounds and measure 24 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. Poodles are a highly-recognizable dog breed. They typically stand at or above 15 inches tall. History of the Parent Breeds Understanding the Bullmastidoodle means diving into the history of the parent breeds: the Bullmastiff and the Standard Poodle. Bullmastiff Bullmastiff The most defining characteristic of a Bullmastiff is its large size. The Bullmastiff has an intriguing history that dates back to the s. It was first bred in the s as a guard dog to protect the properties of gamekeepers. At the time, gamekeepers struggled to fight off human poachers. Bullmastiff standing outside. They responded well to commands and were strong and intelligent enough to hold a poacher down without mauling them. They were indeed large and muscular enough to scare a poacher half to death. The American Kennel Club did the same in .Poodle Poodle The standard Poodle is a highly recognizable breed. Poodles are excellent swimmers and were bred for waterfowl hunting. Their unique haircuts helped insulate them while swimming in ice-cold water. They are one of the oldest breeds globally and are believed to have been a crossbreed of water dogs from European countries, including Portugal, Hungary, Russia, and Spain, and Asian herding dogs. Many people associated Poodles with France. However, these wonderful dogs originated in Germany. Many Europeans, especially the French, took a liking to Poodles and the breed began to spread across the continent. In France, the Poodle was a great attraction as circus performers. The breed was selectively bred down in size to produce the Miniature Poodle. Miniature Poodle Outside circus and hunting activities, the Poodle became extremely popular as a much-loved companion. Poodles are loyal, intelligent, and good-natured. Appearance Bullmastiffs and Poodles are both beautiful dogs. It is safe to assume that the Bullmastidoodle would follow suit! The Bullmastiff is a large-sized breed while the standard Poodle is medium to large. Most Bullmastidoodles are much larger than more common Doodle breeds. The way a Mastidoodle looks depends on which genes it inherits from the parent dogs. Some appear more Poodle-like with long limbs and slender bodies, while others have the muscles and size of their mastiff side. Coat Type The coat type a Bullmastidoodle possesses also depends on the genes it inherits. However, the breed generally has a wavy, long, and dense coat that requires quite a bit of maintenance. A Mastidoodle with curlier, Poodle-like hair will require daily brushing, while one with a Mastiff-like coat needs brushing a few times a week. A breeder cannot claim a Bullmastidoodle is entirely hypoallergenic because only one of the parents is. Mastiffs are heavy shedders, so Bullmastidoodles tend to shed even with their Poodle genes. Grooming A Bullmastidoodle living in a cool climate will likely need grooming every one to three months. Consistent grooming will keep your dog more comfortable and your floors free of hair! Coat Colors Bullmastidoodles can come in a variety of coat colors. Mastiffs are a variety of shades of red or brindle, while Poodles can be black, white, silver, blue, cream, red, apricot, and any shade of brown. A Bullmastidoodle may also have brindle fur, which appears as inconsistent stripes of dark and light fur. A Bullmastidoodle can be any of the colors listed below or a mixture of several colors.

Check them out on Amazon here. To learn more about what to feed your golden retriever puppy, check out this article here. Brush Golden retrievers are obviously very fluffy and need to be brushed often. Check this brush out on Amazon here. Check it out on Amazon here. Chew Toy Check it out on Chewy here he had the size small. Plush Toy This is a plush, squeaky toy that will keep your puppy busy for hours. Interactive Toy Interactive toys allow you to play and bond with your puppy, and are great for teaching or reinforcing commands like drop it, sit and stay. Bonus Items The above list is for the bare necessities of what your puppy will need to get started. Below are some extra things that, although are not necessary, have come in pretty handy. Food Storage Container This is great for keeping food fresh and in a convenient place. Since we get the pound bag of food, we get this container that holds 42 pounds of food. Note that this container does not come with a scooper, so we recommend one like this that has measurements on it. Check out the storage container on Amazon here. Exercise Pen Exercise pens are great for confining your puppy to a smaller area while giving them more space to run around in than a crate. Using a combination of baby gates, exercise pens, and the crate will help you keep them safe while also keeping them from chewing up the house. Get this baby gate from Amazon here. Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook Getting everything you need will help you physically prepare for your puppy, but you also need to mentally prepare for your puppy. This book will help you know exactly what to do before you bring your puppy home, how to handle the first month which is the toughest month! Get the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook here. That means get their crate set up, have their food and water bowls in their designated places, and have a few welcome home toys set out to help your new pup have a great experience in your home right away. Find a veterinarian. Locate the nearest emergency animal hospital. Find both the nearest hospital, and the nearest 24 hour hospital. Find a puppy kindergarten class. If you ask any trainer, breeder, or veterinarian how to have a well-behaved pup, nearly all of them will recommend joining a puppy kindergarten class. The socialization aspect alone is worth it. Puppy-proof your house and yard. Get down on your hands and knees to see what your puppy will be seeing remember this: whatever can be chewed will be chewed , and make sure there are no puppy-sized holes that they could escape through in your backyard. For more tips on how to raise your new golden retriever puppy, check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Life With Your Golden Retriever Puppy Although this might seem like a pretty big list, if you have it all when you bring your puppy home with you, it will make the transition time that much easier. Take lots of pictures and videos! Have a question about any of these items? Let us know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is getting a puppy and needs to see this list, please share this with them! Related articles:. Food bowl There are endless options of food and water bowls. In addition, the bowl can prevent gagging, choking, vomiting, indigestion, bloat, GDV, and malabsorption. If you already have a dog bowl, you can simply add a slow feeder insert. Water bowl Ellie has an 8-cup YETI water bow l to keep her water cold for more extended periods and a 4-cup bowl for food. YETI allows you to customize each bowl with a name, initials, or image. Great as a gift! They help prevent your puppy from getting tangled up in the leash and provide better control. Make sure you check out their sizing guide for the appropriate fit. We added a crate pad for noise reduction and comfort. Crate training can be a lifesaver, and most dogs fall in love with having their own space. It is essential that the dog crate is never used as punishment — the crate must always be regarded as a safe and special retreat. Gates Puppies are curious creatures that often need boundaries. Use a gate to limit access to certain areas of your home and reduce unwanted chewing or house soiling. Introduce your dog to small sections of the house at a time. We prefer the walk-through gate for easy mobility through the house. Toys and Chews All dogs have slightly different preferences in toys, so I would start with various items to see what interests your puppy most. However, the last inch of a bully stick can be a choking hazard if swallowed. This safety device allows your pup to enjoy the benefits of long-term chews while reducing the risks of choking. I typically give it to her for 20 minutes, rinse it off, and store it in the refrigerator until the next day, which prevents bacteria growth. Note you probably want to keep it separate from your food. By Susan B. Barnes Susan B. Barnes is a lifestyle, food and travel journalist who is as comfortable bicycling through Italian olive groves and sampling fermented shark in Iceland as she is taking her dog on miles-long walks and hanging out at the dog park. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on January 28, We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Though she's happy to snuggle and cuddle up with you, she's also an active dog who enjoys being outside, be that going on walks or hikes , to the dog park , or playing fetch in a fenced-in backyard. As a good dog parent, you want to be prepared for whatever adventures await the two of you, but taking a look at all of the products out there for dogs can be overwhelming. From the right collar, leash and harness setup to grooming needs, food bowls, road trip necessities, toys to burn off all that energy, plus a few goodies for the humans, this list has everything you need to take care of the most golden part of your life. Featuring a collar, leash, and waste bag dispenser, you'll be prepared for your walks and your golden will love all the compliments on how handsome she looks. This harness, with its padded chest and belly, is fully adjustable for a perfect fit with leash clips in the front and back. It comes in a variety of colors to coordinate with your dog's leash and collar, too. The adjustable height means the serving tray can grow with your golden, and the pads on the bottom prevent slipping while she eats and drinks. Place a mat under the bowls to catch any water droplets. The stainless steel bowls can be removed and popped into the dishwasher for easy cleaning. Not only will she have to slow down to find the food, but she'll essentially work out a puzzle which keeps her mentally stimulated, too. Choose to purchase just the cover and fill it yourself with old pillows, towels, sheets, or clothes, or you can opt to purchase their eco-friendly fill made from plastic bottles or their memory foam insert. The extra-large size is recommended for full-grown goldens. Not only does the shampoo leave your pup fresh and clean, but it moisturizes and conditions so that after-bath brushings are tangle-free. It's terrific for dogs with sensitive skin, too. With a dense outer coat and thick undercoat, it can take some time to brush out all the layers, but this undercoat rake makes quick work of their luscious locks. One Chewy reviewer wrote that the medium-tooth rake was "so wonderful to get my two golden retrievers' undercoat combed out. Also, the gel grip is quite easy to hold on to. The non-slip handle works for both right- and left-handed users, and ensures you maintain control to avoid any mishaps. One reviewer says: "I stumbled across these supplements while trying to find some joint relief for my golden, Sandy. After only a week I already saw some improvement in her movement and she had an easier time getting up into and out of the car, which was becoming a struggle. Her coat is also looking healthier and she seems to be less itchy. Not only does this fleece-lined coat fit snugly for maximum warmth, but it's waterproof and has reflective strips to stay safe during nighttime walks and winter hikes. They can also help older dogs find traction on slippery floors. Tip: use the printable sizing guide to measure your dog's feet before ordering to ensure a perfect fit. And send us videos of your dog trying them for the first time! This seat cover is not only comfortable for your pup, but waterproof, too. When it's time to go, simply lay the cover over the seat, loop straps around the head rests, push the anchors in, and voila—you're ready to hit the road! One way to do that is to use a harness that doubles as a seat belt: simply attach the harness to the seatbelt using a carabiner, and you'll both be on your way safely and comfortably. Fill the bottle, twist on the top that doubles as a bowl, and when your golden's ready for a drink, squeeze the bottle and water will fill the bowl. Release, and the water disappears back into the bottle. Pop some treats in the holes, cover them up, and watch your pup work her magic to figure out the puzzle and find those tasty rewards. Just like a ball you use to play fetch , this one flies through the air but when she retrieves it, she'll spend some time figuring out how to get to her favorite treats inside. When your pup drops the ball into the top of the launcher, it'll throw it 10, 25, or 40 feet; choose the "random" setting to keep her guessing. Buy Now Change up your game of fetch with this fun Frisbee alternative. This flying squirrel is made of a double canvas material that is durable enough to withstand rough play, yet still agile to spin and tumble in the air, keeping your golden guessing and enticed in play. Shop now: Chuckit! The sturdy sole ensures you'll stay on your feet, and the bone-printed liner is a fun and unexpected treat. Embroidered on percent cotton canvas, and if it gets a little dirty, simply pop it into the washing machine, air dry, and it'll be back on your furniture in no time. The rubber backing prevents slipping when your guests wipe their paws before stepping inside. It's hilarious enough to be a favorite gift for any golden lover on your list, too! Perfect for the dog park, running errands, around the house, or really anywhere you please! The design can also be used on totes, hats, and more. Read the full disclosure here. This comprehensive list covers all the essentials, plus some added extras. Food: Every dog needs food! See our puppy food guide for recommendations. Bowls: Your puppy is going to need something to eat that food from. Something to think about. Bedding: Your pup will need a comfortable bed to call their own. You can decide whether to choose a puppy-sized one or one that they can grown into. To avoid buying more than one crate, you can get one big enough to fit your adult golden and make it puppy-sized using dividers. Brushes: Get your puppy some brushes suitable for a longer-coated dog. The sooner you get pup used to being brushed, the easier it will be in the future. Toothbrush and toothpaste: These are daily essentials in your grooming routine. Be sure to choose a dog-specific toothpaste as the human stuff can be dangerous to canines. Treats: Essential for training. Pick high-value treats for when you really want to motivate your pup. Chew toys are essential to help direct chewing away from your belongings. Tug toys, balls to play fetch and treat-dispensing toys are also nice to have. Travel harness or dog guard: To keep your dog safe in the car. These are the main things you need to think about when puppy proofing your home. Put them up high or away in their proper place. Not only will it leave you out of pocket if your pup chews something expensive, many such items are also choking hazards. Be careful of plants: Make sure you remove any plants that are poisonous to dogs , both in your house and your garden. Common offenders include foxglove, wisteria and yew. Secure medicines and cleaning products: Both medicines and cleaning products can be highly toxic to dogs if ingested. Hide electrical cords: If a puppy sinks their teeth into an electrical cord, it can prove fatal. Try not to have electrical cords running across the room or out in the open where your puppy can get to them. If needs be, you can get cord concealers, cord wraps or even pvc pipes to secure them. Planning Appropriate Puppy Socialization Socialization, with both humans and other dogs plus other animals, if your new puppy is going to be around them , is one of the most important things to think about with your new puppy. A well-socialized puppy should turn into an adult dog who interacts well with all dogs and people, which makes your life so much easier as a dog-owner. It might sound a bit over the top, but it will stop your pup from getting confused or overstimulated and it sets some ground rules for the humans involved, too. Pick out regular meal times for your puppy and try to stick to them as closely as possible. Also take your puppy out into the garden on a schedule, as this will really help with toilet training. You can also schedule in training sessions, play sessions and, when your puppy is old enough, their daily walks. Learning How To Train Your Puppy You might think that training your new dog will be intuitive when you get them home, but dog training is a skill you learn, not one you just pick up as you go along. Once your puppy is old enough, group puppy training classes are an excellent idea. Not only will you learn more about training your pup, your dog will also get to socialize with other young canines. The ideal option is to have the puppy in the back seat in a car harness and have a passenger sit next to them, who can hold, pet and comfort them on the journey home. Some people forgo the harness altogether and have a passenger simply hold the puppy, wrapped in a blanket or towel. However, before you even get your puppy into the car, you should try to get them to relieve themself first , to avoid any toilet-based accidents on the journey home. Once you get your precious pup home, all that effort and preparation will have been worth it to give your new four-legged friend the best start in life. You May Also Like. However, avoid retractable leashes whenever possible: Although they seem easier during walks, retractable leashes are actually dangerous, especially for young puppies who are still getting the hang of walking on a leash. Keep your puppy on a regular leash with a maximum of six feet of space between you both. Snowy Pines recommends slip leads: Slip leads are what puppies are taught to walk on from a young age at Snowy Pines, since they give you as the walker more control over the puppy as he gets the hang of normal walks. You can also opt for an embroidered collar if your puppy seems bothered by the noise or extra weight of the dog tags. Many puppy owners choose embroidered collars since dog tags should be removed when the puppy is left alone as they can pose a hazard. You can stick with a small food and water bowl. Puppy Food Your puppy will need high-quality food to grow strong! In most cases, this means his own dog crate. A good dog crate should be large enough for him to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. You can choose a crate that expands as it grows to save money in the long run. Most of our puppies at Snowy Pines will do well in a inch wire kennel with a divider that you can remove once he gets bigger. Be sure to check out our dog bed reviews too! Remember that most toys should not be left alone with your puppy since unsupervised playtime can lead to a choking or blockage incident. Image Source Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys keep your pup mentally stimulated while they also have fun. Additionally, these interactive toys provide help with weight management, satisfy natural hunting instincts, and even relieve feelings of stress or anxiety. These toys can easily become a comfort item and help curb any potential anxiety as well. Chase Toys Golden puppies need to have regular exercise. Chase toys are simple things you can buy at any pet store, like ropes and balls, but some interactive chew toys are designed to add a little zing to your daily play routines. So, for example, if your puppy just woke up from his nap and pottied, but you need to do laundry and load the dishwasher, the exercise pen is a perfect solution. It enables your pup to enjoy safe solo playtime. Training Treats Food is a powerful reinforcer , so treats are incredibly beneficial in the early stages of puppy training. Try offering him a treat when he potties outside or uses a chew toy. Quick Tip: The treat should be small and chewy so that he can eat it fast and keep his attention on you! With the proper carpet cleaner and enzyme spray, you can quickly combat any potty mistakes anywhere in the house. Dog Shampoo and Conditioner The Retriever family has a unique, double-layered coat designed to keep them warm in winter and cool in summer. It also dries quickly after becoming wet. It is such an impressive coat that it is essentially self-cleaning when it comes to dirt and debris. Pooper Scooper and Poop Bags A pooper scooper is a handy tool that many homeowners with yards find essential. Instead of bending down every time your pup goes, you can use a pooper scooper to clutch onto the waste and quickly throw it in your outside garbage bin. They are also expected as a common courtesy to other people outside. So before your English Cream Golden puppy comes home, be sure that your home, backyard, and car are puppy-safe and puppy-proofed. In the Home: Image Source Keep the toilet lid closed. Believe it or not, open toilet lids have the potential to be drowning hazards. Secure medicine and cleaning products. Keep these products high up or use childproof locks and latches on lower cabinets. Garbage should be kept lidded and secure. Lidded, secured bins are the best type of garbage cans you can have with a young puppy. Not only do you want to avoid spilled garbage, but a locked lid will prevent your puppy from getting into any potential hazards. Hide electrical cords and blind cords. Exposed electrical cords and long blind cords can prove to be fatal for curious puppies. Keep electrical cords hidden away, buy cord wraps to keep them safely covered, and be sure that your blind cords are tied high and inaccessible. Invest in a pet or baby gate. Gates can be used for doorways or staircases to keep your puppy away from certain areas of the house. In the Backyard: Be careful of plants and landscaping that may be poisonous or dangerous. Many plants are toxic to dogs , so be sure to triple-check if any are growing in your yard. Secure your yard with fencing and add gates around bodies of water. If you plan to let your puppy roam freely in your backyard, you should have complete fencing with no puppy-sized gaps around the perimeter of the property. If you have any ponds or pools, block them off with appropriate fencing to avoid accidental drowning. Keep your yard landscaped and manicured. Long grass and brushy areas can invite ticks, which can be extremely dangerous if any potential bites are not discovered early on. Generally speaking, your grass should not be higher than a couple of inches and potentially even shorter while your puppy is still young. In the Car: Image Source Move any chewable items and lock loose items in the glovebox. Confine your puppy in one area of the vehicle, like the backseat. Keeping your puppy confined to one area of the car is safe for everyone. Many puppy parents choose harness seat belts and car seats for younger dogs, while older dogs are big enough to safely sit in the back seat or trunk with cargo barriers. As your Golden Retriever gets older, you may find yourself opting for different barrier methods that will better suit his size. Kennel your puppy while in the car. Crating your puppy is the safest mode of transportation while in the car. Deciding on a Daily Routine Like children, puppies thrive on a fixed routine because an orderly one instills structure and confidence. Sticking to a schedule can also help reinforce potty training and prevent behavioral issues , like separation anxiety and barking or whining. Think of a schedule that works best for your puppy, which should include: Feeding: Pick out regular meal times and stick to them as closely as possible. Golden Retriever puppies will need three daily feedings until they are six months old. After that, stick to feeding twice a day at the same time each day. Fixed meal times will help you predict when your puppy needs to potty each day, which better ensures easier potty training. Scheduled potty breaks: Take your puppy out to the yard or on a walk to potty immediately after a meal and after they wake up to enforce a schedule that will help with house training. Playtime and exercise: Playing and mental stimulation are key to a happy puppyhood. Even though they will mellow out in personality as they become adults, Retriever puppies are high energy! Place the dog crate in a quiet part of the house since we kennel train at Snowy Pines, and it helps ensure their safety and comfort. And now is the exciting part: Your puppy is finally home! But now what? Puppy Socialization Socialization is vital for young puppies, especially between 8 to 16 weeks of age: A well-socialized puppy will grow into a happy and confident adult that feels secure in various situations. You can also invite friends and family over to meet the puppy. In this case, more is always merrier! To help your puppy feel comfortable around humans in general, expose him to different types of people when he is still young. We also recommend holding off on public settings like dog parks until your puppy is settled into his new home and routine so as to not overwhelm him. Once your puppy is vaccinated, you can consider signing him up for puppy socialization classes. These classes, alongside training courses, can help prepare your pup for a long walk or a day at doggy day camp. Training Techniques Training is just as essential as early socialization. He may become disruptive and exhibit poor behaviors like jumping on visitors, chewing on furniture, and barking incessantly, among other frustrating challenges. Your puppy may also struggle with separation anxiety. They will comprehend basic commands and learn things such as his name, housebreaking, and early manners. They will be able to take on more advanced training and commands, and they should understand what good dog manners are. This age is essential when it comes to instilling how you want him to behave through adolescence. Puppies will begin teething at this point. Your new puppy might use anything possible to exercise his teeth, so you must start teaching him not to use your hand or furniture as chew toys. Anytime your puppy chews on something undesirable, have a toy nearby to put in his mouth instead. You can also try using bitter apple spray to deter biting and chewing on household items. Be firm but loving with clear, consistent commands and minute training sessions each day. Quick Tip: Keep in mind that at this age, this is when the key socialization period ends for your puppy: From this point forward, everything your puppy has learned will influence the way he behaves around people and other animals. While this is good, this age will also be a challenge because he will try to determine his ranking in the household, which can be frustrating when hormones play a role! Although spaying and neutering are standard for most breeds around six months old, studies have found that doing so for Golden Retrievers can actually increase the risk for joint disorders. Therefore, the standard for this breed has recently changed, and many vets suggest waiting to spay or neuter until 12 to 24 months. Training can be an overwhelming process, which is why many Golden puppy owners opt for working with a dog trainer or enrolling in training classes. Snowy Pines offers three levels of training when adopting one of their golden retrievers, which can save you tons of time and frustration in the long run. At your first checkup, you can also ask about getting your puppy microchipped!

Also, the breed is prone to developing allergies to any foods in their diet and these can include protein or grains found in pet food. More often than not, these allergies show up as skin irritations. Gastric dilation and volvulus are also common. This is a serious condition that needs immediate veterinary intervention and while the causes are unclear, the risks can be cut by feeding your pup smaller portions two to three times a day, rather than one big meal. Making sure your dog waits at least an hour before he does any exercise, avoiding elevated food dishes and moistening his food can also reduce the risk. Because his diet is dependent on his age, our list of recommended dog food for Golden Retrievers includes something for every stage. Royal Canin Golden Retriever Breed Health Nutrition Puppy Golden Retrievers, like all large-breed puppies, are disposed to malnutrition and developmental orthopedic diseases, including osteochondrosis OCD , hip dysplasia, hypertrophic osteodystrophy HOD , and panosteitis. Although there is a definite genetic element to these conditions, there are nutritional risks that play a large role during the puppy years. These include an excess of calcium intake and rapid growth. Everything about this formula meets the needs of this awesome breed. Royal Canin kibbles are thin and square-shaped for optimal digestion and chewing. This particular recipe is an excellent pick for Golden Retrievers because of its macronutrient breakdown. And, of course, the salmon makes it extra tasty too. Having said that, there are fewer fatty acids when compared to other foods, which makes this one a little less well-balanced. Taste of the Wild contains fruit and vegetables, which is great for Goldens, as the antioxidants are crucial for their overall health and well-being. With the beef, there is also fruit and vegetables including kale, broccoli, apple, blueberry, and yam. Natural Balance L. Sweet Potato and Fish Adult Formula. The salmon and omega-3 fatty acids will reduce any skin irritations too. Their joints begin to ache and their mental function deteriorates, which is why getting dog food with certain active ingredients is important. Conclusion Unfortunately, no food alone is going to prevent aging and the issues that come with it. As thoroughly explained by Chelsea from PupsNPaws. A good nutritional diet coupled with the right love, exercise, and care will keep your best friend around a lot longer. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Your pup can feel as close to nature as possible with this recipe. Also, it is laden with omega fatty acids for better immunity and for promotion of a healthier fur and skin. From the high protein content to supporting better digestive health, bone and joint health, and healthier skin, together with the other features it boasts, this formula stands out as the best recipe overall. For strong muscular dogs, like pitbulls, the Taste of the Wild Wetlands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, which mimics the ancestral diet of canines in the wild, is the ideal option. Key Features Large range of poultry ingredients Grain-free Includes probiotics No artificial additives Expect rich protein content in the formula, thanks to the presence of meats and meat meals, ranging from duck, smoked turkey, and quail meats to chicken, duck, and ocean fish meals. Other nutritious ingredients like peas and garbanzo bean have also been included. Because of the high protein content and a smaller portion of carbohydrates, this meal meets the nutritional needs of most dogs, your dog included. As long as your pup is active enough, she will burn it off in no time. In reviews of this food, pet owners seem happy with the shiny coat and general health of their pooch that comes with using this formula regularly. Pros: Contains plenty of high-quality animal protein for building muscles Contains probiotics to promote good gut health in your dog Has chelated minerals to ensure better absorption during digestion Cons: Contains ingredients that may trigger allergies like eggs Overall, the Taste of the Wild Wetlands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is not only delicious but also developed to ensure it meets the instinctive appetite and cravings of your dog which is what makes it one of the best overall recipe on this list. Click Here For Price If you want your pooch to have a meal that closely resembles that of their ancestral wolves, then this recipe might just do it for her. Thus, they formulate their recipes to be gut-friendly. The first ingredient in this grain-free formula is buffalo, lamb meal, roasted bison, roasted venison and chicken meal. This ensures that your pooch has a plentiful supply of animal protein and other vital elements such as calcium for stronger bones and strong muscle development. Just the sound of the ingredients is enough to make even the most choosy of eaters salivate. The recipe is packed with animal protein, and sweet potatoes and chicken fat ensure that there is adequate energy supply for your pooch. Dry chicory root further enhances digestion and gut health for better absorption as well as a stronger immune system. Click Here For Price This is no doubt one of the best dry dog food for loose stools, given the rave reviews it continues to receive from doggy parents. One thing I also admire about them is their brand philosophy of only formulating diets that are as close to nature as possible. Remember, ancestral dogs used to forage for prey to fulfill their protein needs and would balance things out by nibbling on berries and even grasses on occasion to keep their gut health balanced and generate decent poop. This is what inspires the brand. In addition to being delicious, this formula is grain-free and comprises novel meats such as smoked salmon to provide animal proteins for lean muscle development. The recipe utilizes carbs that are highly digestible, such as sweet potatoes, and green peas, which also happens to have a rich fiber content. These carbs sources are a recommended alternative to grains. When protein and healthy carbs are combined with chicory root, which is a healthy prebiotic that supports digestion and gut health, the meal becomes very easy for your furry buddy to absorb and digest. In turn, you can expect to see the quality of your buddies droppings firm up to a healthy consistency. Click Here For Price Beef, which is the top ingredient in this formulation, is a great source of lean protein and a wonderful alternative if your dog has an allergic reaction to chicken. Use of this farm-raised turkey, together with carrots, chickpeas, and wholesome peas make this food tasty enough even for your picky eater. However, Zignature uses complex carbohydrates that offer higher fiber and low glycemic levels, like chickpeas and peas. The combination of essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, with the other key high-quality ingredients, give your pooch a well-balanced meal every time she eats. Not only is it among the best tasting wet dog foods, it is also packed with nutritional value, a fact that makes the best product overall in this review. Ingredients Analysis The ingredients used in Taste of the Wild Dog Food are above average when compared to other dog food products on the market today. With the top ingredient in all of their formulas being a real meat, you can assure yourself that your dog is receiving top quality ingredients first and foremost. However, we do know that when a real meat is listed as the first ingredient, we must also assume that the meat will lose some of its moisture which in turn makes the meat lose some of its weight and moisture. This means that the meat content actually becomes smaller after it is cooked so to say it is the first ingredient is a tad misleading. There are also peas and beans included in most of the formulas which are great sources of fiber and carbohydrates. Overall, the ingredients prove that Taste of the Wild dog food your pooch will chow down will be top notch! Giving your dog the true taste of the wild game their ancestors fed on will leave them feeling satisfied, energetic, and thankful. Read our other dog food articles:. Rated 5 out of 5 by StephanieW from Love the food but confused about ingredient label! My rescue GSD loves the High Prairie food, and it has done wonders for her overall appearance - her coat has thickened and softened so much - and she's so playful and happy. Easy on the tummy, too. She never gets sick eating it. My friend uses the High Prairie puppy formula. My only confusion is over the labeling. Not a lot of dog foods include it. However, when you look at the actual label on the bag, taurine is omitted. Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by Mabel P Stewart from Never been so happy to see my dog eat! Mabel is a 6 month old GSD mix puppy. Mabel was having some stomach problems, wasn't interested in eating, had started to lose weight because she was vomiting up the food we had her on at the time and no it wasn't cheap stuff , and also has a sensitivity to chicken. We took her to the vet and had a barium swallow and x-rays done just to be sure there wasn't an obstruction. Everything came back normal. So we bought a bag and after a few days on this food she is excited to eat, dances around her food dish, has more energy, and is back to acting like an energetic puppy! Our Dogs Love it. .She is 7yrs old now. She Does Great on it. We are going to cut back and see if that Does the Trick. If not will be switching to small breed adult TOTW. .Thank You For a Great Product. .Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by Molly from My owner was away from his computer.Hi, my name is Molly. My owner switched me over to this after arriving at my new home. I must say, I really like the taste! I also love the ingredients… no corn or other grains to upset my little tummy, and the first ingredient is buffalo… yummy! There are also lots of vitamins and other good things to keep me healthy. This is my first Amazon post, and I hope my review will help other dogs who see this post make a smart decision when considering puppy food. Thank you for reading, and tell your owners about this. We changed our girls food to Taste of the Wild Puppy and could not be more pleased!!! The food has made our girl look so healthy!! The big surprise is that as most knows a German Shepard sheds a lot of hair but feeding her Taste of Wild has reduced the shedding to a minimum!!! Wow we are so grateful to be able to get this good food for our baby and to see how healthy she looks!!!! Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by Mazza from Perfect Pup food We rescued a 4 month old puppy from a hoarding situation. She was horribly under weight, her fur and skin were in bad shape. We have been feeding our other dogs Taste of the Wild for years. We had never used the puppy formula before so we gave it a chance. We were impressed with how quickly our little girls put on weight, thickened her very short coat, and how soft her coat became. Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by pvtcarlswife from the only food i will feed my pets We had a heart dog who owned us for 14 years. They both love the food, they both are healthy and thriving, we did get them very young as the person that had them was ready for them to be gone at 4 weeks, they were eating TOTW Puppy High Prairie from 4 weeks, they are now 14 weeks and are active and healthy puppies. We also feed TOTW to our 2 cats. Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by Shachafit from Picky and sensitive pup loves it I have a czechoslovakian wolfdog pup, and ever since I brought her she never liked any of the dry foods I tried and always had diarrhea. Following many frustrating months, I contacted a breeder from abroad and she highly recommended feeding my pup with taste of the wild. My pup loves it and the diarrhea stopped almost immediately after she began eating this food, she gained lots of weight and her fur became lovely. Date published: .Thursday, August 25, Behind the Breed Working Dogs One of the most popular dog breeds in the United States for decades, golden retrievers have a rich history that originates in the Scottish Highlands. The golden retriever is a highly adaptable and all-around sporting dog known for their affectionate temperaments and luxurious golden coats. In the late 19th century, Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, who later became the first Baron Tweedmouth, sought to create the definitive retriever for rainy weather. And so, the golden retriever was born. In the years after World War I, golden retrievers increased in popularity and spread throughout the Western world. They now count themselves as one of the most common breeds largely due to their friendly nature and willingness to learn, which make them ideal for obedience trials, as search and rescue dogs and as excellent candidates for therapy dogs. Goldens have boundless energy and often exhibit puppylike behavior well into adulthood. Because of this exuberance, goldens need plenty of exercise and running to calm them down. The information in this blog has been developed with our veterinarian and is designed to help educate pet parents. If you have questions or concerns about your pet's health or nutrition, please talk with your veterinarian.