english boston bulldog puppies for sale

A little cuckoo in the best way. These are a few ways that parents of Boxer puppies might describe their pooches. The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds for good reason. Those adorable looks are backed up by big personalities. Do you think a Boxer puppy is right for you? Brush up on your facts about Boxer puppies before you adopt! That can make quite a mess! Boxers are known for their puppy-at-heart attitude that shines through their young adult years. Be sure to give your Boxer puppy plenty of space to exercise and play, and teach them how to settle down if need be. This stubbornness also can carry over into aggression. Some Boxers can get rough with dogs of the same size and sex. Be sure to socialize your Boxer pup early and often and set up expectations early to avoid too much drama. Your Boxer puppy will have tons of energy, but as they age, the need for snuggles and downtime will start to balance out with the need for play. Boxer puppy sitting in grass Boxer puppy looking up at camera Boxer puppy looking at camera Boxer puppy running Boxer puppy Boxer puppy lying in grass. You make it seem like puppy ownership is as simple and trouble-free as the world presented in cute puppy pictures. We can all agree that, at birth, all puppies are too adorable for words. We can also agree that raising puppies is a weighty responsibility, and never one to be undertaken lightly. Boxer puppies are not special in this regard. These caveats out of the way, it seems like no time at all between the stages of tiny, mewling infant and the first time you get the guilty look from Boxer puppies. Out of the whelping box, straight into mischief Boxer puppies start up with impish behavior from the moment they take their first tentative steps out of the whelping box. Training and socialization are key elements to a happy life with Boxer puppies. These little guys and gals, after all, become huge and physically imposing dogs. Keep an eye on this little fellow! Boxer puppies were made for the outdoors. Being outside, running about, playing with toys, and pawing at stuff — this is a top-flight day of action and adventure for Boxer puppies. When they want a snack before dinner, though, Boxer puppies will try and get sneaky. That we have such things as cute puppy pictures, of course, owes as much to human waggery as to anything Boxer puppies get into of their own accord. Boxer puppies are well known for toting things around in their mouths. No room in the house is safe from the shenanigans of Boxer puppies. Did you remember to close the bathroom door? Have fun re-rolling the toilet paper! Boxer puppies are eager, excitable, and enthusiastic friends to dog owners who are ready and willing to put in the work that training requires. Is it possible to sit Boxer puppies next to flowers and not have them inspire confidence, ease, and a sense of pervading calm? Sure, this brindle Boxer puppy seems contented, seated next to a little garden pinwheel, but be careful not to let her sit idle for too long. Boxer puppies need stimulation and interaction, so make sure she has toys to play with and things to occupy her mind! Boxer puppies love to play. Growing into solid, well-built dogs, they never really lose the joy and excitement that comes along with meeting new friends. Are your Boxer puppies naughty or nice? Every dog is different; each has her own personality and tendencies. Much depends on us, as dog owners, to train and socialize them in order to corral their wilder instincts. Do you have any experience with Boxer puppies? Share your experiences with Boxers at every stage of life in the comments!

Sign up to receive information about our upcoming litters! God has blessed us with two beautiful daughters, but we had more love to give! A lifetime dream of owning an English Bulldog has led to not only owning several of these amazing dogs, but breeding and rescuing. They are so similar to humans. Talk about emotional support. One look into their beautiful eyes and you will understand exactly what we mean. They are a challenging breed to produce, especially correctly and responsibly, but oh so worth it! We breed very few litters a year personally, but we do whelp litters for some friends! Just ask when our next litter is arriving and we should have some info for you! Just like a potato chip. Cannot stop at just one! Due to our overwhelming love for the breed we have opened our hearts and home to many rescues along the way as well. If you know of a bulldog in need, please do not hesitate to contact us! Also, if you are looking for the most amazing companion ever, message us about adopting one of our pups, retired adults or adult rescues! Sign Up For Updates. Questions about Bulldog puppies for sale in Austin TX? We have answers. How much are Bulldog puppies for sale in Austin TX? The cost of any Bulldog for sale in Austin will vary due to a few factors. The combination of coat color, pattern, and eye color will make a difference, as some combos are more unusual than others. The experience and location of Austin Bulldog breeders will also play a part in how much they charge for their pups. What if there are no Bulldog breeders in Austin right now? Bulldogs are a super popular breed so you should have too much trouble finding Bulldogs for sale in Austin. The businesses in our network can even arrange for pups to fly to your nearest airport! How do you screen Bulldog breeders Austin? Each of them also has to sign our Breeder Pledge. What makes Uptown Puppies different from anywhere else with Bulldog puppies Austin? What are puppy mills? Puppy mills are grim places that put profit above welfare. Sadly, pups born in mills are far more likely to suffer from health conditions, behavioral issues, or both. Are there any Bulldog puppies for sale Austin right now? In fact, we reckon you should check them out right now! Our network of approved companies have some seriously cute Bulldogs for sale Austin that are just waiting to find their forever homes. Will you be it? While they may have been bred as working dogs, the modern day Austin Bulldog for sale are chilled out pups who would rather curl up for a nap with their favorite humans than head out to earn their keep. How big does a Bulldog get? Bulldogs are built low to the ground but with plenty of chunk! They might only stand 15 inches tall when fully grown but they can weigh a huge 50 pounds. Are Bulldogs good family dogs? They absolutely are! The Bulldog for sale in Austin on the Uptown network want nothing more than to find their perfect family. Their kind and loving natures mean that a Bulldog is never happier than when surrounded by their people both young and old. This keeps the breed characteristics constant. Mixed breeds are created by crossing two purebred breeds together to create a new breed with characteristics that are a combination of both the parent breeds. Both are awesome options!

She is our sweetheart of the group. Oakley is extremely affectionate and loves making new friends. She aligns more to the "American" style given her slender body characteristics. Oakley is currently 60lbs, with anticipation of reaching 65lbs by end of year. Willow loves to play in the mud and get dirty whenever possible! Willow has gained popularity due to her strong facial characteristics and dominate stature. She is currently 65lbs with anticipation of her reaching 80lbs by end of year. She is our singular chocolate female Lab who will steal your heart! Lola loves attention as she craves social interaction with other dogs as well as people. If she is not at your side receiving a belly rub, she can be found swimming in the pool day or night! Lola currently weighs in at 70lbs and growing! Tank Isabell Isabell The name says it all! Tank is our leading stud coming in at lbs. Even though he is built like a dozer, he has a gentle paw. Tank loves belly rubs and his favorite trick is "play dead" hence the love for belly rubs! Isabell Isabell Isabell Meet Isabel! She is very calm and reserve lab who loves being independent and going at her own pace. Isabell is very unique from our other labs as she literally has a leg up on her counterparts lol When it comes to petting time, Isabell will automatically place a paw in your lap to establish a connection with you. Isabell is approximately 70 to 75 lbs. Did someone say fetch! Anabell is our top field dog as she showcases the highest level of endurance among any of our Labradors. Anabell demonstrates critical thinking skills as she follows several commands including fetch, heel and speak permission for her to bark. Along with these personality characteristics, Anabell is very family oriented and loves to play with kids and adults alike. Anabell comes in at a healthy lbs. She gets her name from her creamy coat color and matching personality! Bailey loves to smile and show her teeth when you call her name. Her excitement only grows from there. When she becomes even more excited, her facial features will showcase a genuine smile : Bailey is one of the larger females with a weight of lbs. Her background comes from waterfowl field and retrieval. Luna is highly disciplined and displays great awareness of her surroundings as she remains on constant alert. Heeling is a natural behavior as Luna shows an eagerness to earn praise for positive command response. Like Anabell, Luna has learned the skill of speaking when given the command. Luna maintains a standard weight of lbs. They are also regularly tested for parasites and preventively treated. All puppies come with a full written health guarantee which covers hip and elbow dysplasia, heart murmurs, EIC, CNM, and eyes. All of this health testing insures you have a healthy, sound family member for years to come. You can pay up front for a sound guaranteed dog, or you may pay MORE later for a puppy that has one of these medical problems. Please do not support unexperienced breeders that are not properly testing their dogs. This leads to the potential of so much pain and suffering that is preventable. My love for animals has been life long. I was a Certified Veterinary Technician for 15 years, mostly working in a small animal hospital. I also received an Animal Science degree. My husband and I are Arizona natives and are located in the beautiful desert of North Phoenix. We live on property with our dogs and horses. Our labs enjoy our swimming pool and room to run. They are truly part of our family. Our puppies are raised in our home with us where they received lots of love and attention by our 2 daughters and many nieces and nephews. Contact us to schedule a visit and for our physical address. This is our mailing address but we live near this location. This is an exciting phase for both owners and puppies alike! At two weeks old, puppies should have their ears open, be alert, and start opening their eyes. At this stage, puppies start to stand, walk, and sit without falling over. With this rapid increase in function, puppies can begin to socialize with each other and their mother. Puppies begin to explore the world around them. They can hear, smell, and see and their canine teeth are growing in next to their incisors. When they play, four week old puppies will begin to exhibit distinctive body language such as play bows, as well as growling. Four week old puppies are much more independent. At this age, puppies begin the weaning process, transitioning from milk to Life Abundance All Stage Dog food. Week 5 WEEK 5 A five week old puppy continues to learn from and socialize with their mother and litter mates. During this time, puppies learn more bite inhibition through play. The weaning process also continues at five weeks. Your five week old puppy should gradually be moving on to solid food instead of nursing from their mother. They have freedom out in the play yard through a dog door. Start learning to go outside to potty. Week 6 WEEK 6 Mom usually will not let puppies nurse at this stage and wants to be away from the pups. Some puppies complete the weaning process by 6 weeks old. At this age, they are still socially developing and learning how to be dogs. Because they are so keen to learn, we work more on potty training and no bite. We also start socializing them with other dogs and or older puppies. In addition, at 7 weeks old, your puppy is noticing it can get frightened. Proper socialization can prevent your puppy from becoming timid. Week 8 WEEK 8 When puppies are 8 weeks old, most are independent, fully weaned, and usually ready for their new homes. Puppies for Adopting Our goal is for the original intent for the breed, the all versatile dog. All of our adult dogs at Graves Labradors have been health tested and we guarantee that we do not produce affected pups to known disorders that are common in labradors! Life's Abundance is required by Graves Labradors for your new puppy's extended health guarantee. We feed all our dogs Life's Abundance. Labrador Retriever Description Labrador Retriever puppies have long been regarded as the most suitable pet throughout the world and is the most popular breed in the U. It is a remarkable working companion often used in physical assistance and personal protection. Highly intelligent, good-natured, very willing and eager to please, they are among the top choices for service dog work. Its loyal and friendly temperament makes it an outstanding pet; reliable and superb with children and other dogs. The Lab features a strong jaw set in a broad head with strong legs and shoulders which add to its fast pace. They also have webbed feet to aid in swimming. The coat is straight, dense and short with the outer coat being a bit coarse and the undercoat thick and soft making it almost completely waterproof. Their coat also comes in multiple colors including black, chocolate, silver, or yellow. Discover more about our Labrador Retriever puppies for sale below! Disposition The Labrador Retriever is loyal, playful, alert, curious, patient, and good-natured. Labrador Retrievers have a distinct elegance, carrying themselves in an upright, proud demeanor but with a friendly expression making them so endearing. One of the most popular breeds in the U. They love to play, especially in water, never wanting to pass up the opportunity for a good swim. Exercise Labrador Retrievers require a lot of exercise and playtime as they have a high degree of stamina, energy, and strength. Labs love to exercise so be sure that you like to exercise too. Adult Labs are very strong so train them while they are a puppy to heel on the leash, and not to bolt out of doorways and gateways before their owners. They can also become destructive without enough mental and physical exercise or if they are left too much to their own devices. Training The Lab is highly intelligent and willing to learn, always loving a job to perform so your job as a trainer will be easy. However, you need to be a calm, knowledgeable owner giving consistent and committed leadership to your Labrador Retriever using motivational training methods. They crave human leadership and need to feel as though they are part of the family. Your Lab may be reticent with strangers unless socialized, so train and socialize your Labrador while they are still puppies in order to avoid negative behaviors as they get older. Labrador Retrievers love to eat and many owners need to keep the food out of reach and even under lock and key because this breed will find a way to get to the food with or without the owner; sometimes eating until they get sick. Grooming The Lab is an average shedder with a smooth and thick, water-repellent double coat. As with all dogs, trim their nails and brush their teeth regularly. Origin The Labrador Retriever is from Newfoundland and was bred to work with fishermen. They were trained to work in the water to pull in the fishing nets and to retrieve fish that came loose from the lines. In the 19th century, this breed was brought to England where they were crossed with various breeds of Spaniels, Setters, and other Retrievers to advance their hunting skills. Today this breed shines in hunting, tracking, retrieving, search and rescue, military and police K-9 units, narcotics detection, assistance and guide dogs, and field trial competition. See store for details on a particular puppy. American Canine Association. Questions about Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Arizona? We have answers. What affects Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Arizona price? Labrador Retriever puppies will vary in price from breeder to breeder. Puppy price is affected by several factors, including type American vs English Labrador Retriever Arizona , coat color think silver Labrador Retriever Arizona , and more. What if there are no Labrador Retriever Arizona breeders? Can you make travel arrangements for my dog? They sure do! Uptown breeders and companies can make travel arrangements puppies to any major airport in the Continental US, delivering your puppy in style. How do you screen Labrador Retriever breeders AZ? We have strict standards when it comes to vetting our breeders and protecting your puppy—take a look at our Breeder Pledge to find out more about what it takes to join our network. The internet has made it easy for anyone to list puppies for sale online. We want to help you avoid all of the heartbreak that comes with buying poorly bred puppies from disreputable people, and instead help you find the Labrador of your dreams. What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are basically puppy factories. At mills, mommy dogs are forced to breed litter upon litter of sick, mistreated puppies, which are then sold for dirt cheap. Puppy mill dogs have a tendency to develop horrible genetic diseases, dangerous behavioral problems, cost owners thousands in extra vet bills, and die far too soon. Are there any Labrador Retriever puppies Arizona for sale? Looking for Labrador Retriever puppies AZ? Begin the MatchMaker process right here, and tell us all about you and your dream pooch. What about American Labrador Retriever breeders in Arizona? MatchMaker is how we help match the perfect puppy with the perfect family. How do I know I can trust you? There are thousands of dishonest breeders out there, and just as many online puppy scams. Take a look at some of our reviews, and help us put an end to unethical breeding.

English Bulldog Puppies for sale will be posted on here This is our current litter ready for their new forever homes Apollo This Beautiful red and white boy has already found his forever home. Hermes This beautiful all white boy has already found his forever home. He is a Crufts Champion with an amazing pedigree of 13 champions in his first four generations. He is true to type with a good solid build. Standard red and white colour with an amazing shoulder and head structure. He is of amazing health and temperament and sired many stunning litters of healthy Bulldogs. The pups have been raised by us in our family home and our youngest daughter always helps with feeding and toilet etc so they are used to being around young and older children as we have 4! They have been socialised well with our bulldogs and are usually running around our home so have been introduced to all aspects of home life such as vacuum cleaner, washing machine etc and they interact well with other people and dogs. Thanks for looking, if you need any more info or would like to join our waiting list contact us today. Beware of cheap English Bulldog puppies for sale! Despite common misconception, healthy bulldogs are rarely at the vets and this is because of the quality of their breeding and pedigree, the care and attention taken to mate with the perfect partner so as to breed out any flaws in the breed, extensive health testing for the dam and the sire, including a BOAS score from a qualified veterinarian and for this reason the average cost of an English Bulldog can be more than you may think. English Bulldogs usually need a C-section and they are usually artificially inseminated on mating at the peak of ovulation, this is a significant cost to breeders. A reputable English Bulldog breeder will spare no expense with their Bulldogs. Bulldogs require specialist care for their surgery, not just any vet should be used, it must be one experienced in the brachycephalic breed because they require careful monitoring and caution must be taken with the amount of anaesthetic used and this experience does not come cheap. The expense of breeding an English bulldog can quickly increase when combined with repeated trips to the vets during pregnancy and taking into account any unexpected complications that may arise. Usually there are many English Bulldog puppies for sale but finding the perfect one for you might be more difficult than you think. The main thing is to make sure you take your time to find a good well-bred one, there are plenty of unscrupulous people out there who would just love to take your hard earned money so be very careful to take the time to meet the breeders and the puppies, if you pick one ask if you can come back again a few times and have regular pictures or videos of its progress, this should be no trouble for a reputable breeder. Make sure you see mum and, if possible dad. Make sure you actually speak with the breeder rather than just texting or emailing. Check out their website and any reviews they have as good reputable breeders will always want to showcase their dogs. A good reputable breeder will give you a puppy pack with a contract in it with terms and conditions for both you and them and a reputable breeder will always require you to bring the puppy back to them if it needs to be rehomed. Never pay for your puppy until you physically collect it and make sure all paperwork that should be signed, is signed by both you and the breeder, this way you are covered in law should any issues arise. We can offer you our full package or just one service, the choice is yours. Our full canine breeding service package is as follows: Semen analysis of stud dog Mating carried out by 2 AI procedures, 2 days apart. Confirmation scan at day 30 and another scan around day for peace of mind Discounted microchipping for your full litter at 6 weeks old Support and advice 24 hours a day throughout your breeding experience. Check out our Canine Fertility page for more details. British Bulldog puppy for sale Untitled We offer a first class Bulldog breeding service We offer a high class, top pedigree, proven English Bulldog Stud service Years of experience keeping the English Bulldog breed with years of experience breeding Bulldogs A quick four minutes of English Bulldog fun from Youtube to brighten up your day Play Video about english bulldog puppy If you would like to be added to our waiting list for one of our English Bulldog puppies for sale then get in touch with us using the contact buttons above and we will send you an application form, just fill it out and email it back to us and we will add you to the list for one of our furbabies. Based in the city centre, we are inviting all animal lovers and yogis to join us for a class like no other. Come along for an hour of complete happiness and relaxation, whilst being surrounded by the cutest puppies! How to book To book tickets for our next events, simply click the book now button below. To be the first to know about all of our upcoming ticket releases, sign up to our newsletter or follow our social media channels. We can't wait for you to join us on the mat. Thank you to everyone who has joined us over the past year. We've had a pawtastic first year and celebrated with 2 days of paw-ty themed classes. Kerstin Casparij, Mary Fowler and Laura Coombs found the paw-fect way to relax at our puppy yoga sessions. The animal-loving trio joined us for an afternoon class with the cutest litter of 10 toy cockapoos. The su-paw star players left the class feeling relaxed and energised and have already been back for a second class! Classes Our classes are one hour long and consist of 30 minutes of yoga and 30 minutes of puppy playtime. All of our events are held in Manchester city centre which can easily be accessed via public transport. Puppies Ensuring the well-being of the puppies is our utmost priority at Paw Yoga. All attending puppies are vaccinated and of appropriate age. We strictly refrain from mixing litters from different households, and we warmly welcome the mother to join the sessions. Our exclusive collaboration is limited to trusted and ethical breeders, ensuring that the puppies originate from nurturing homes. Playtime is an essential part of their socialising and development, so by attending classes the puppies get used to being around humans before they are adopted. Well-being Puppy Yoga has so many benefits beyond just making you smile and feeling all fuzzy inside. We are passionate about mental health and wellbeing and aim to make each class as relaxing as possible. Both yoga and spending time with puppies has been proven to reduce stress and improve mental health and wellbeing. Sign up for our latest PupDates Email. No shots, not fixed or declawed. Pets near Johnstown, PA - craigslist. Lawrenceville -For Sale-Two bedroom brick house. Pets near Chambersburg, PA. Find it via the AmericanTowns Bucks County classifieds search or use one of the other free services we have collected to make your search easier, such as Craigslist Bucks County, eBay for Bucks County, Petfinder. Black and white cats name is Alina, other ones name is Reese. Willing to meet and will come with everything we have for them. Maine Coon Kitten to a good home. Please do your research on the breed before inquiring - his rehoming fee is not cheap. Also you can search our Pennsylvania Classifieds page for all state deals. Pets near Lehigh Valley, PA. Pet Classifieds PA Pennsylvania. Pets allowed and smoking allowed, but outside. Smaller dogs Dishes not included. ISO friendly cockatiel! Pets near York, PA - craigslist. He is extremely affectionate, loves attention, and is great with kids and other cats. Here are some from nearby sorted by distance — change search area. Pets near Fredericksburg, PA. Pets near State College, PA. Litter box, tower, food and litter. Search for pets for adoption at shelters. Pet Classifieds Pittsburgh. Find and adopt a pet on Petfinder today.

Their muscular and athletic build is capable of intimidating anybody. If you have a German Shepherd at home, you can rest assured that you and your loved ones are safe. They are extremely alert dogs that would always be on the lookout for unwanted trespassers and scare the burglars away. Great Exercising Buddies If you are looking for some motivation to get up and work out every day, getting a German Shepherd would certainly help you build a great exercise routine. Being high-energy dogs, German Shepherds require their daily dose of exercise. Moreover, they love indulging in physical activities that allow them to utilize their stamina. Whether you take them for a walk, jog, or a run, German Shepherds would always make excellent exercising buddies. All-Weather Dogs Thanks to their double coats, German Shepherds are considered to be all-weather dogs. They can survive well in all kinds of weather without facing any major issues. However, in a city like Bangalore, it is important to take a little extra care of your German Shepherd when the weather gets a bit too hot and humid. Once they get comfortable with you, they become a part of your family and would do anything for you. Their love and loyalty towards their owners are unconditional. During times of danger, a German Shepherd would not think twice before putting their life at risk to save their owner. However, the degree of loyalty would depend on the manner in which you raise them. If you shower them with love since they are puppies, German Shepherds would reciprocate the same by growing into highly loyal dogs. High Intelligence German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs. This makes it easy to train them. Being fast and curious learners, they tend to retain the tricks taught to them and learn new skills faster. However, before you train your pet, always make sure that you use a positive and reward-based approach. This would provide them with an incentive to learn without getting aggravated. It is also advisable to train a German Shepherd while they are still young to get the best results. If you need any more information about German Shepherds or want to get your queries answered about the same, we will provide you with all relevant information and assistance that would answer all your questions. Before you bring the pet home, make sure you are able to take at least a couple of hours out every day for their exercise. If you keep them inactive for a longer period of time, they would get irritable, aggressive, and obese. As their food intake is high, they need to burn the extra calories by indulging in physical activities every day. Health Problems It is always important to be well-versed with the potential health issues your German Shepherd puppy may encounter before bringing them home. Hip dysplasia is one of the most common health issues faced by the breed. German Shepherds are also susceptible to the genetic condition of epilepsy. When they end up eating a lot of the wrong items, it may result in unwanted bloating, making it difficult for your German Shepherd to breathe. Reach out to us and we will help you add a cute little member to your family! Lets Connect on We will also provide you following breeds. Contrary to popular opinion, it is no more closely related to the wolf than any other breed of dog. A consortium of German breeders worked to make a brave, intelligent dog that could herd sheep and run quickly with great stamina. They produced an agile, powerful dog which quickly showed its usefulness at police work and guarding. During World War I, the breeds name was changed to Alsatian Alsatia is a German speaking region of France to protect the breed against possible anti-German sentiment. This name lasted only briefly in some countries such as America but remains to this day in others. German Shepherd Dogs became the most popular breed in America after the rise of German Shepherd movie star Rin Tin Tin, who thrilled audiences with astounding skills such as leaping nearly 12 feet high. Rin Tin Tin was known to dine on tenderloin steaks prepared by a personal chef. While no longer the countrys number one breed, the incredibly adaptable German Shepherd Dog is today a popular guard dog, police dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, drug-sniffing dog, and pet. Size The German Shepherd Dog has a shoulder height of cm in and weighs kg lbs. It is a long, muscular dog with a black nose, powerful scissors bite, wide, erect ears, and intelligent, almond-shaped eyes. German Shepherd Dogs have a flat back, bushy, low hanging tail, muscular legs and chest, and short, round feet. They are the image of power and dignity. German Shepherd Dogs with a shoulder height over 64 cm 25 in and weight over 41 kg 90 lbs are sometimes called King Shepherds, but this breed is not recognized as distinct by the American Kennel Club. Coat and Color There are three varieties of German Shepherd Dog: coarse and short-haired, coarse and long-haired, and wavy and long-haired. Long-haired varieties may or may not have a double coat. The prototypical German Shepherd Dog is tan with a black back and mask, but German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors including solid black, grey, brown, and yellow, tricolor black, white, and brown or red, or sable black and red, silver, or tan, plus a variety of marking designations including penciling black lines on the toes and tar heels black on the back of the leg. German Shepherd Dogs may not be white, though in some countries this is considered a separate breed. Character The German Shepherd Dog is unusually intelligent and unconditionally loyal, obedient, brave, and protective. It is known for its fearlessness but it is by no means hostile or aggressive. German Shepherd Dogs are poignant and devoted, making wonderful companions and ideal watchdogs. They are highly versatile and can fit in with many different lifestyles. Temperament German Shepherd Dogs are highly territorial, making them among the least likely of breeds to run away from a fight. They are not friendly towards strangers and will stop unwanted visitors. The German Shepherd Dog gets along fine with children and other animals, provided proper socialization has taken place, but does not prefer the companionship of other dogs. Care The German Shepherd Dog should be brushed weekly. During shedding, a special comb to remove dead hairs may be required. Like other large breeds, German Shepherd Dogs are susceptible to elbow and hip problems. Meals should be spread throughout the day to avoid bloat. The German Shepherd Dog has a life span of years. Training German Shepherd Dogs are eager pupils and are quick to learn new tricks. They are most responsive to their owners voice. The German Shepherd Dogs versatility makes them suitable for a wide variety of activities including dog sports. Activity German Shepherd Dogs are happiest when doing some type of work, such as agility, obedience, or police trials. Over-exercising when young can cause damage to growing bones, joints, and muscles. The German Shepherd Dog prefers a yard to play in, but can tolerate life in an apartment if sufficient exercise is provided.

They are a loving and sensitive breed. One of the most common questions asked by new French Bulldog owners is how much food they require, and how often should they be fed. French Bulldogs typically will eat as much food as you give them. The amount of food required depends on their age, weight, and activity level. Source Feeding French Bulldog puppies When puppies are born they get all of their nutritional needs by drinking milk produced by their mothers. Breeders typically start to wean the puppies off their mother's milk by weeks and by six weeks they are eating kibble 1. When your puppy is home with you at 8 weeks old they will typically require 1. I recommend splitting this up between meals over the day. When our puppy was at a very young age we would mix the kibble with a little bit of water to soften the food for them. As your puppy is at a stage of rapid growth over the following year we recommend feeding your dog the best nutritional food you can afford. Active Frenchbuilldogs based on a weight of 15kg 33lb requires caloiuries a day. This can be split over several meals and would be approximately 3cups of kibble. How much should I feed my elderly French Bulldog? As your French Bulldog ages and activity levels decrease they will require less food. Typically they will require calories per g 1lb of body weight. However, if your dog is showing they are still hungry and underweight feed them. How much should I feed my underweight Frenchie? Increase the amount of food you are feeding your dog up to between calouries per g 1lb of body weight until they are at their ideal weight. What can you feed your dog? Kibble Dry food is very accessible and can be purchased at most supermarkets. Nutritional values provided by kibble differ by product sold. We recommend doing some research to provide good quality kibble to your dog. Some of the benefits listed for kibble are: Increased dental health Reduced risk of bacteria Raw diet Raw food can be homemade, and or store-bought. Meticulous care and planning need to be done to ensure your dog does not get sick. Some studies have found many benefits of raw diets: Healthier coat and fur Increased longevity Fresh diet Cooking for your dog at home allows you to provide nutritionally valuable ingredients of your own choice. The downside is that it does take up time and requires planning to make. If you decide to feed your dog fresh food we highly recommend that you consult an animal nutritionist. Some of the benefits of feeding your dog fresh food are below. Avoids fillers Allows a variety of food Food quality To learn more about your dogs microbiomme and gut health visit our blog post here. If you are after dog shirts, or cooling shirts for your French Bulldog visit our shop here. Three to four times a day 4 — 5 months 6 months and above Two times a day Pregnant or breastfeeding French Bulldogs may eat up to three times a day within eight hours. Meanwhile, puppies require more frequent feedings than adult dogs due to their rapid metabolism. In general, a French Bulldog puppy should be fed three times daily between two and six months. Once the French Bulldog puppy reaches the age of six months, the feeding frequency can be reduced to two meals each day. As developing puppies, your Frenchie requires a consistent daily feeding plan. The feeding plan should incorporate at least three measured meals per day. Its dinner schedule is vital, as it allows ample time to digest the food and go pee or potty before bedtime. Between 14 and 18 weeks, you can begin accustoming your French Bulldog puppy to two meals each day. If your veterinarian advises you to keep your French Bulldog on a three-meals-a-day diet, this must be properly followed. Senior dogs can be fed on the same schedule when given three meals a day. Since elderly dogs do not move as much, they may develop too much weight. Consequently, you should ensure that the food contains fewer calories, more fiber, and an appropriate balance of fat and protein. Your veterinarian should have a recommended amount of treats you should give your dog. Again, it will vary according to its weight and level of activity. If you must frequently use treats for training, use tiny bits or give them a licking mat. Best Dog Foods for French Bulldog A feeding guide for Frenchie dog lovers would be incomplete without the information on the best dog food for their furry companion. There are numerous food options available for French Bulldogs. The best pet food varies from one Frenchie to another. Perhaps your French Bulldog is a fussy eater or suffers from food allergies. It is feasible to provide a balanced diet for your French Bulldogs if you use the best store-bought or homemade dog food that contains all the nutrition needed by your dog and as prescribed by your veterinarian. The list below shows the best dog food options you can provide your French Bulldog: Dry Food: Dry dog food is commercially available kibble. This can be an excellent alternative for French Bulldogs with sensitive stomachs. French Bulldog puppies require high-quality dry food that is high in animal protein to aid in growth and muscular development. Wet Food: Wet food is contained in a can; it is primarily composed of water and is considered highly mushy food. However, wet food expires more quickly than dry food, making it the least practical alternative. Home-Cooked Diet: A home-cooked, protein-rich diet like a chicken meal is excellent for French Bulldogs. Unlike ordinary kibble, it contains no additives or preservatives. It supports healthy digestion and may help avoid various problems related to a bad diet, including obesity, dry skin and coat, pancreatitis, diabetes, and a low immune system. French Bulldogs are prone to developing a variety of joint and back issues. Along with other joint problems, they may develop luxating patella or hip dysplasia. Both glucosamine and chondroitin are critical components of a high-quality French Bulldog dog diet. These essential vitamins assist your French in developing the connective tissue necessary for healthy joints and spine support. Omega-3 fatty acids can assist your Frenchie to keep muscle mass and strength by reducing inflammation and soreness. Also, this can promote healthy skin by preventing itchy and flaky skin. Whether wet and dry food, raw food, or a homemade diet, each dog food offers several benefits and drawbacks. Consult a veterinarian before deciding to know exactly what food option suits your Frenchie. Any French Bulldog owner will attest that vomiting is far more common in this breed than in other dogs. While it cannot be totally prevented, you should know what human foods are toxic to French Bulldogs. Some of the foods to avoid are not only bad for Frenchie; many of them can be fatal. They may result in poisoning and, in the worst-case scenario, death. This section enumerates some of the most dangerous foods for French Bulldogs. I will discuss why these foods are poisonous and when you should contact a veterinarian. The first and most prevalent is chocolate. It contains a toxin called theobromine , which can cause a variety of health problems when consumed in large amounts. This can cause irregular heartbeats, seizures, and sudden death. Garlic and onions should also never be included in the diet of your Frenchie puppy or adult dog. Even a trace of these vegetables can result in anemia and red blood cell failure in your pup. Poisoning symptoms include lethargy, fatigue, vomiting, rapid breathing, and an increased heart rate. However, remember that you may not immediately notice poisoning symptoms because the toxic consequences may take a few days to manifest. Additionally, grapes are one of the most toxic foods for your Frenchie. A dog that has consumed grapes may exhibit stomach bloating and diarrhea. They need to be taken to a veterinarian immediately. In severe cases, gastric lavage is the best course of action. Candy, artificial sweeteners, corn on the cob, roasted bones, avocado, raisins, almonds, cherry, peach, plum, coconut oil, mustard seeds, alcohol, coffee, blue cheese, and tomatoes are also regarded to be unsafe for French Bulldogs. Furthermore, there are certain foods that you should avoid giving your Pitbull owing to the negative side effects they may cause. While they are not considered dangerous, they can cause nausea, diarrhea, and weight gain. Numerous dogs wind up at veterinarian clinics due to improper food intake. While prevention is always the best course of action, it is critical to understand emergency care and medication expenses. Read our article on French Bulldog costs to learn more about the medical expenditures associated with a French Bulldog. These adjustments should ideally take place over 5 to 7 days. Consult a veterinarian in this scenario, especially if you intend to switch to a raw or homemade diet. Feeding an Overweight French Bulldog French Bulldogs can quickly gain weight, resulting in various health problems. Thus, dog owners need to notice when their Frenchie gets overweight to assist the dog in maintaining a healthy weight and living a healthy life. Average adult French Bulldogs should have a body weight between 19 and 29 pounds for males, while 18 to 28 pounds for females. The most common indications that your Frenchie is overweight include lack of muscle definition and difficulty breathing during brief exercises. In terms of visual indicators, a Frenchie within their healthy weight will have a thin layer of fat covering their ribs. Meanwhile, those with excess fat have noticeable deposits in the chest and stomach area. Also, you should be able to see and feel their spine as they bend and curl into a sleeping position. Furthermore, Frenchies have an hourglass form, with a visible waistline that is smaller than their chest when they are not overweight. Regardless of these symptoms, it is always advisable to seek confirmation from a professional veterinarian. Feeding an obese Frenchie means maintaining a consistent food plan throughout the day to aid in weight loss. Additionally, this stops your dog from eating more than it requires. Apart from planned feeding times, serving the correct meal proportions is essential. If your Frenchie is overweight, owners should focus on how much food is offered to them. Reducing their daily kibble intake by half a cup can help them significantly reduce weight. Moreover, you should offer them foods with fewer calories, more fiber, and more protein. As a result, your Frenchie will burn more calories and lose weight more quickly. It is preferable to give your dog treats that contain only one ingredient, are low in calories, and contain no added sugar, such as sweet potato and blueberry bites. Alternatively, you can treat your dog with items that are already in your refrigerator, such as tiny portions of sweet potatoes, apples, and bananas. Regularly weigh your dog, monitor how many calories they intake, and establish a target body weight for them. Also, pain can make a Frenchie nervous and unable to eat, so keep an eye out for evident signs of injury. Another common reason for your French Bulldog not to eat is discomfort in the mouth caused by dental issues. Furthermore, gastrointestinal conditions, certain medicines, vaccination, overfeeding, or other serious health problems can cause a French Bulldog not to eat. As a result, you must keep an eye on your Frenchie and contact your veterinarian if the condition persists for weeks. Do French Bulldogs Eat a Lot? French Bulldogs are opportunistic feeders by nature. Thus, they will continue to eat as long as you provide pet food. They may begin to require more than is necessary to fulfill their appetite due to this behavior. Also, when a French Bulldog is agitated, it may begin to overeat. The most effective strategy to combat stress-related overeating is to thrive in a calm environment. At times, your dog may become bored and eat more than usual to keep itself occupied somehow. Thus, you must keep a watch on any of these factors. Can French Bulldogs Eat Bones? Dogs should not consume cooked bones of any kind. The bones may splinter, resulting in deadly shards that might cause injury due to choking hazards. Thus, if you wish to offer your Frenchie a bone, vets recommend raw meat bones, preferably from farm-raised chicken. These are best given after a meal to prevent them from eating too much. Remove it after around ten minutes and store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for tomorrow. To avoid bacterial contamination, it is recommended to discard it after a few days and keep it separate from other raw meat and food. Can French Bulldogs Be Vegetarians? Each Frenchie is one-of-a-kind. Simply because your French Bulldog likes veggies does not mean it can go full-on vegetarian. Also, bear in mind that many veggies are dangerous and toxic to your French Bulldog. Certain vegetables are acceptable to be fed to a French Bulldog, but only in small portions. Final Thoughts French Bulldogs are, without a doubt, playful, intelligent, and compassionate dogs. On the other hand, Frenchies are greedy eaters, and food serves as their primary motivator. Thus, a critical component of owning this breed is understanding how much, how frequently, and what food to feed a French Bulldog. You can supply dry food, wet food, raw food diets, or a homemade diet for your pet. Since Frenchie pups and adults may have food sensitivities, providing or making the best dog food for their age and nutritional requirements is critical. By doing so, you can help your Frenchie prevent undesirable health problems. This can help guarantee that your Frenchie receives the safest and healthiest diet as much as possible. Let us know in the comments below about your experience with feeding your French Bulldog! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Pin64 71 Shares When we first brought Claude home, we had no idea on how much food we should be giving him. We spoke to our vet, and this is what he told us about how much you should feed a French bulldog puppy. A French bulldog puppy should be fed 3 times a day whilst there are still 2 to 6 months old. Once the French bulldog puppy reaches 6 months, you can reduce the feeding schedule down to 2 meals a day. But now having been a French bulldog owner for 3 years, I can now look back and give you some more detail on exactly what our French bulldog puppy feeding schedule was like and how it worked for us and him. French bulldog puppy feeding chart Below you can see a French bulldog puppy feeding guide I put together. It contains some rough guidance on how you should schedule and plan his feeds, and what other factors you might need to take into account. Please do print it out and put on your fridge. How many cups of food should I feed my French Bulldog? Before you look at the French Bulldog feeding chart below, you might want the quick answer to how many cups of food to feed your French Bulldog. As a general rule of thumb, you should feed a French Bulldog puppy aged 8 to 12 weeks around 1 and a half cups of food a day, in 3 separate meals. As your Frenchie gets older, the number of cups of food you should feed them will change. You can see the cup amounts and frequencies in the French Bulldog feeding chart graphic below. This French bulldog puppy feeding chart tells you how much you should feed them Source: Canin The French bulldog puppy feeding chart shown above is taken from the Royal Canin dog food range. This is exactly what we fed Claude as he was growing up. They range a specific French bulldog puppy food, and on the packaging you will see a version of the chart above, including how best to feed your own puppy. Handy Hint: To stop your Frenchie from bloating and possibly choking you should use a suitable feeding bowl. Here are the best French Bulldog food bowls that vets recommend. When you take your puppy to his new home, he should already be used to eating puppy food. As I mentioned earlier, you should be feeding your French bulldog puppy 3 times a day. They need that regularity as they are growing and burning a lot of calories. You know how energetic they are! How much you feed them at each mealtime will typically be half a cup of their dry puppy food. Across the day, that will equate 1. However, their weight and health will then determine how much you feed them as they get older. Calories matter, but are hard to count As French bulldogs get older, you should try to feed them according to their weight. For every pound, they should be fed between 25 and 30 calories. However, for the rest of this French bulldog puppy feeding guide, I am just going to talk in cups. Puppy weight How can weigh your puppy at the vets or, and this is can be a more interesting and fun way if your puppy already knows how to sit, have them sit on a scale at home. It will not be as accurate as a scale at the vet, but it could be a cheap and fun experience for you and your pet. Because of this, your puppy may be a little stubborn about eating dry and wet food if they were only just recently weaned. Here is where the math gets a little more detailed, but not too complicated. When they are between 8 to 12 weeks old, the puppy should be fed about 1. This food should be high in calories since they need extra nutrients that they are no longer getting from their mother. This kind of follows the main rule when it comes to spreading out the meals to 3 times a day. But for younger pups, many owners will split the 1. Because feeding them 0. Once they are between 6 and 9 months old, they should be used to their eating routine. That is when the main rule is applied because by then, the pup will be maturing into its adult size and should weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. What about older dogs? Also, if you are wondering how much they should be fed once they start hitting their senior years, they should be fed a little less as long only if they are not as active. Make sure you still stretch out the meals to 3 to 4 times like when they were puppies because it is not uncommon for their stomachs to weaken with old age. Overweight or underweight? French bulldog puppies usually weight between 8. Once they reach 6 to 9 months, they are just at or are closer to reaching their adult weight, .If the puppy is underweight, then add very small increments to each meal every day until they are no longer underweight. It is important to not add too much food because of the possibility of them getting a twisted stomach. If the puppy is overweight, you can either slightly reduce the size of their meal until they lose weight, or you can give them more exercise. Many people prefer the later since it helps the pup to get stronger and adds more bonding time. The same methods apply to grown French bulldogs as well. Handy Hint: Read this guide which explains how to check if you have a fat French Bulldog who needs to lose weight, with tips on how to get the pounds down. If the dog does not appear to be gaining weight when they are underweight or vice versa if they are overweight, you might want to take them to the vet since it could be a sign that something is affecting their health. Health conditions Since not every animal is the same, ask your vet the next time your pup has a check-up what a French bulldog of their size and age should weigh. Health factors like diabetes yes, dogs can have diabetes , can make your pup need a more strict diet or feeding routine. Here are some different diets and feeding routines. Raw food vs. Many dog lovers say that there are too many preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and protein in dry and wet food. While the raw food diet can be more natural, especially if it is organic, you also have to make sure your pup would be getting more foods with vitamins and minerals mixed in with the raw food that your pup would need. Raw food diets can be more expensive, require more storage room for the meats and veggies, and take longer to prepare. However, you would be personally ensuring that your little French bulldog pup is getting their full daily nutrition without harmful by-products and additives. Is there a good dry food diet? Possibly the biggest questions out of all of them: is there any good dry dog food out there and how do I find them? The answer is yes, there can be some healthy dry dog food products, but it takes some time to look for. The key is to look for dog food that does not contain any preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and too much protein. Fillers basically do not provide any nutritional value and can even harm your dog since most of the ingredients they use as fillers are common allergies for dogs that can cause skin conditions, bowel issues, and more. Wheat and corn are included since they are also a popular allergen for dogs. Too much protein is even more dangerous for them since it can put more pressure on the organs, throw off nutritional balance, increase the likelihood of diabetes, and can harm dogs that already have diabetes. To see the safe and dangerous fruits list, click here. Another two meat choices would be duck and turkey, but these are a little less common to find, especially if you are looking for a French bulldog specific dog food. Your dog eats his food too quickly Another common problem is how do you control how fast your French bulldog puppy eats. French bulldogs love to eat their food and eat it fast, which is one of the primary causes of GDV. Frenchies will stop eating for a number of reasons, some more serious that others. Conclusion So there you have it, your guide to how much you should feed your French bulldog puppy. Everything in this feeding schedule and the French bulldog feeding chart you see is based on personal experience. Once in the morning, and once in the early evening. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Frenchies will stay as healthy as ours has! How often should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? Home » How often should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? Your puppy has been on unlimited food all of the time. If on the smaller side 5lbs , we recommend four times per day. If a little bit stouter, you can start with three times a day. We recommend giving them as much as they want at each setting while they are growing babies. As they age and grow you can take it down to times per day. Two feedings per day seems to be the amount of times most people end up feeding their Frenchies. When you place your puppy on a feeding schedule it helps with the potty training as well. After eating, take them outside to potty. Make sure to tell your little one how good he is for doing his duty outside. Basically you just fill the water up to the level of the dogfood. If they continue to turn their nose up at the kibble, try adding a bit of canned dogfood to the kibble. Puppies are like humans. Some overeat when stressed and some undereat. Changing to a new home is an environmental stressor even though we are sure your Frenchie is enjoying being the center of your world. Each Frenchie is different and each human family is different. Do your best at scheduling for you and your Frenchie to live your best lives. Only the weights have been taken from Pawlicy. So, if you plan on using that one, follow this chart. For other foods, look at the back of the pack to get an idea of how much you could use for your puppy. Usually, the difference is not that great. Vets assign different scores from 1 to 9 to puppies to quantitatively measure how much fat they have. So, to know how many calories your pup needs based on its weight, you should know its BCS. Suppose I own a 6-month-old Frenchie. My target weight is 20 lbs. That is close enough to the Royal Canin chart I shared. Still, not necessarily exact for your dog. What is the best diet for a French Bulldog? The best diet for a French Bulldog adult and puppy should have all the necessary nutrients in the right amount. A balanced diet is, thus, super important. You could get that from the dry or wet puppy foods available in the market. One such example is the Royal Canin. However, no matter which brand you select, always make sure that it has all the recommended nutrients. NRC has laid out those requirements for puppies after weaning from 4 to 14 weeks. Both can be found here. They were misled by false propaganda that since dry and wet foods were prepared in a factory, it will be harmful. Managing a household, my job, and my hobbies do not allow me to spend that much time trying to make homemade food that rich. Besides homemade meals, I also do not recommend feeding the puppy adult dog food. As a result of nutritional imbalances arising from these reasons or any other, your pup may end up becoming sick because of nutritional deficiency. Hypocalcemia is one of those diseases that arise from a lack of consuming the required amount of calcium per day. The dog suffers greatly because of it. Therefore, buy puppy food in the first place. Should I feed my Frenchie dry or wet food? Normally, owners prefer wet canned food for a French Bulldog puppy. But my number one reason to shun wet canned food for daily use is the less calories and nutrition per portion as compared to dry food. Hence, those like me prefer dry food for its convenience in storage, feeding, and a multitude of other benefits because of its texture or grain. I choose wet canned food only when my puppy is going through stomach problems. I also change the food to wet when the pup gets fussy about eating dry kibble all the time. Or, chop an apple and garnish the food. And I want you to do that, too. Only with safe food, of course. What human foods can French Bulldogs eat? Tuna A big NO. It has high mercury content because of its size and lifespan. Avocado No. It contains Persin, which is highly toxic for dogs big and small. Green tomatoes are an absolute disaster for puppies and adults. They contain tomatine and solanine that are notorious for causing anemia. Cucumber Yes. This is safe and beneficial. In fact, it has low calories. So, you could add it to the food as a snack. Definitely yes, you should feed it to your pup. Broccoli Yes. Broccoli has more fiber and Vit C. You can even feed it raw but chopped to the animal. Peanut Butter Yes, but moderately. It contains Vit B and E along with healthy fats. Ice Cream Only occasionally. Bread Yes. Plain white and wheat bread have no allergens. However, make sure your bulldog gets plenty of exercise after it. Chicken Yes. It is one of the cheapest and most readily available sources of protein. Cook it well before feeding it to your dog as raw chicken may contain Salmonella. Carrots Yes. Carrots are rich in Vit. A, fiber, but low on calories, thus, making them a good snack. Scrambled Eggs Yes. They are a safe and good source of protein. However, I like them to be boiled for my dog. Banana Yes. Make sure you give it as a treat. They are perfect sources of potassium, biotin, fiber, copper, and loads of vitamins. Pineapple Manganese, copper, magnesium, iron, and zinc are a few of the minerals present in pineapples. A major yes. Feed it pineapple when the dog is going through a rough digestive patch. Cheese Yes, only moderately. Yogurt has protein and calcium with fiber that goes easy on the stomach and intestines. Pizza No. Pizza may have high salt, non-human-grade meat, and poor-quality cheese. All of these things the dog cannot tolerate. Shrimp Yes. Shrimps could serve as a low-calorie snack or even a meal for dogs that are put through a diet. Apples Yes, except the seeds and the core because they have cyanide — a poison. Raw Eggs No. They may contain Salmonella. Sausages No. Potatoes Unboiled potatoes have solanine, which causes anemia as I said above. But you can feed the puppy boiled potatoes. Chicken Nuggets No. Pork Yes but only after removing the fat. Also, do not add anything extra to it. French Fries Only occasionally. Instead, the high-fat content, thanks to the oil, adds to the weight of the puppy. Lettuce Yes. Lettuce is a low-calorie vegetable that could help your French Bulldog puppy to lose weight. Grapes A huge NO. Even a single grape could kill your puppy because it harms the kidneys. Gummies No. Anything that has xylitol, which is an artificial sweetener will put your pup through harm. In fact, if it ingests even one, take it to emergency asap. Beer Beer may contain alcohol, which is highly toxic to dogs. So, NO. What are French Bulldog Puppies allergic to? Anything from the Allium family is highly poisonous for your French Bulldog puppy. Some examples are onions, garlic, chives, and leaks. Whether cooked or raw, they cause anemia. Besides this, chocolate, bones of any sort, macadamia nuts, walnuts, cherries, fruit seeds, dough containing yeast or otherwise, caffeine, coffee, cocoa, blue cheese, nutmeg, milk, salt, and moldy spoiled food. How often should a Frenchie puppy drink water? According to AKC , your puppy would need an ounce of water for every pound of its weight. Keep the bowl beside its favorite places if you want it to drink as much water. Also, make sure that the bowl is clean and free from any mold or other water-borne fungi. That could make it drink more water and suffer dehydration as a result of peeing more. I usually divide the water into portions that could go with the meals. From my previous example, 5 ounces of water with each meal will suffice as my pup is above 4 months of age. However, even then, I fear that it may become dehydrated for some reason such as extensive exercising. Press its gums and count second until the blood returns back to the place. If it takes more time, then the dog has less water in the blood. Dry teeth and gums also signal the need of feeding it more water. Hold your pup from there and pick it up. If the scruff returns to its place faster, then you have an okay dog. Otherwise, feed it water. Should I add water to dry dog food? Yes, why not? Some puppies like their food wet. Otherwise, it may repel the dog. My labradoodle dislikes mushy food that looks like pudding. All you have to do is grind the food and then add water just enough for the pup to be able to chew on it easily. What else can French Bulldogs puppy drink? Water is the only drink that your dog should drink. But if you still want it to taste other drinks, then whole fruit juices will do well. In that, avoid orange juice at all costs. I feed my labradoodle freshly made apple juice with chicken on plain rice when that happens. On normal days, I avoid any kind of juices because whole fruits are still better equipped with nutrition than them. Why do Frenchies get Zoomies? Your pup may get zoomies all of a sudden. However, that could make the dog hungry as hell afterward. So make sure that you keep the meal ready afterward. Why should you listen to me? All of these will help you determine the right portion size for your dog. Wrapping Up A french bulldog puppy needs more calories than an adult. Relying on homemade food for all that is a long shot. Therefore, almost all vets prefer factory-made dry or wet canned food. So, relying on them makes sense. They can do it well. She is a trainer who posts about dog training and behavior. How often and how much do I feed my Frenchie puppy? Because we feed more than one puppy at the same time the rest of their litter mates , we put a large bowl full of their puppy food in their kennel and let them eat until they are satisfied. Once all of them walk away from the bowl we know they are done, and we take it away. Puppies are changing and growing rapidly, and they need to eat more frequently at least 3 times a day to provide all the proper nourishment and nutrition for their rapidly growing bodies. Make sure your Frenchie always has access to fresh water through out the day. There is a guide on the food bag that tells you how much to feed your puppy at a given weight. This is only a rough guide depending on activity level, etc. We believe PawTree has wonderful products and we recommend that you keep your puppy on one or more of their excellent products for life. These are all-life-stages products so there is no need to start with a puppy chow and then transition over to an adult chow. However, if you would like to use another high-quality chow, the transition should be made gradually so as not to upset your puppies digestive system which could cause loose stool or diarrhea. For an adult chow, you can get by with a percentage or two less on the protein and fat content, but unless you have a weight problem with your dog, generally the higher the protein and fat content the better. However, we love the grain free chows form PawTree which use sweet potato. All of the various meats are good, although if you have a very food sensitive Frenchie, turkey or duck are generally better than chicken, and fish can sometimes cause issues. If you are feeding your Frenchie a high quality chow, you can probably get by without special supplements. Our Frenchies love them like they are treats. NuVet has made a noticeable improvement in our kennel, especially with our pregnant and whelping females. We were told about this supplement by a breeder friend of ours who obtained fantastic results in her kennel by using this supplement every day with each of her dogs. She said she solved several problems from skin rashes to low milk production in mothers, along with several other nagging health issues when she started giving each dog in her kennel one of these supplements daily. When you use the number provided you can purchase these supplements at a significantly discounted rate versus the retail cost. Have More Questions? As such, knowing the ins and outs of their dietary requirements is crucial. Welcome to our comprehensive French Bulldog feeding guide, tailored for Aussie Frenchie owners. The dietary needs of a French Bulldog puppy vary with age, weight, activity level, reproductive and health status. The age of your Frenchie plays a pivotal role in determining the amount and frequency of their meals. Regular check-ins with your vet can further ensure your pup is getting the right amount of food and at the right intervals. Typically, puppies in this age bracket should be fed 3 times a day. For those aged between 10 to 12 months, feeding twice daily is generally recommended. When it comes to the vibrant health and vitality of French Bulldog puppies, the role of nutrition and the proper food is of paramount importance. Puppy-specific food is distinct from adult dog food in several ways. These formulations offer more calories to support their energy needs, ensuring that every leap, play, and nap is backed by proper nourishment. Expertly crafted, these foods address the nuanced needs of growing Frenchies, striking a balance between energy, growth, and overall health. For a typical adult French Bulldog weighing around kg, roughly calories per day is recommended. For optimal digestion and routine, splitting the daily food intake into two meals, breakfast and dinner, is ideal. Regular feeding times can help regulate their metabolism and prevent overeating. Measuring food portions and keeping to a consistent schedule can go a long way in maintaining their health. Remember, always consult with your veterinarian for tailored advice on feeding, ensuring your Frenchie stays in tip-top shape. Special Considerations French Bulldogs, like all breeds, can have individual dietary needs that set them apart from the general canine population. Some may suffer from allergies, requiring hypoallergenic diets to avoid certain triggers. There are specialised dog foods crafted to mitigate allergic reactions. Then there are Frenchies that require specific diets for coat and skin health, ensuring they maintain their distinctive, shiny coat without any skin issues. For those who are either a tad underweight or on the heavier side, weight management foods can help balance out their physique. They can provide expert guidance, ensuring your French Bulldog gets the best nutrition tailored to their individual requirements. Best Food to Feed a French Bulldog Choosing the best food for your French Bulldog involves understanding the various diet options available, including wet, dry, and raw foods. Each type offers unique benefits, catering to different preferences and health needs. Wet Food Wet food is moisture-rich, making it particularly palatable for many dogs. It can help with hydration and might be easier for some Frenchies to chew, especially if they have dental issues. If your dog has sensitive teeth, for example, wet food often emerges as a preferred choice. Dry Food Dry kibble is a popular choice among many French Bulldog owners, primarily due to its convenience and long shelf life. Quality dry food can offer a balanced diet, ensuring your Frenchie gets all the nutrients they require. Furthermore, the crunchy nature of kibble can aid in dental health, acting as a natural tooth cleaner. Proponents argue it offers a more natural diet, closer to what dogs would consume in the wild. However, there are considerations about potential bacteria and ensuring a balanced diet. The best food for your French Bulldog depends on various factors, including their health, age, and personal preferences. Always prioritise quality and balance in whatever diet you choose for your beloved Frenchie. A proper balance of nutrients is necessary. Providing the right mix of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals supports everything from bone health to energy levels. Avoiding excess calories is another critical aspect. While treats are a delightful way to bond with your Frenchie and reward them, moderation is key. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which brings a plethora of health issues. Steer clear of dangerous foods. Foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and certain sweeteners like xylitol are toxic to dogs and can be fatal. The journey to a healthy and fit French Bulldog lies in balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and a dash of love and vigilance. The rhythm of feeding your French Bulldog is as crucial as the food itself. A consistent feeding schedule not only aids in digestion and metabolism but also instils a sense of routine and security in your pet. For puppies, their growing bodies and smaller stomachs demand more frequent feedings. Typically, French Bulldog puppies should be fed three to four times a day to support their rapid growth and continuous energy. When thinking about how much to feed a Frenchie puppy, bear in mind their developmental stage and activity levels. As they transition into adulthood, their feeding frequency can be reduced. Adult French Bulldogs thrive on a twice-a-day feeding schedule, ideally once in the morning and once in the evening. This not only satiates their appetite but also divides their daily caloric intake efficiently. Consistency is key. However, moderation is essential. Striking a balance ensures your French Bulldog remains happy, healthy, and eager for the next treat-filled training session! Hypro Premium presents a superior whole grain range, meticulously tailored for the unique dietary needs of breeds like the French Bulldog. Rich in essential nutrients and made with premium ingredients, it helps support muscle growth, maintains a lustrous coat, and ensures robust overall health. Thinking of making the switch? Give your Frenchie the premium life they deserve.

Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. 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. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. 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. There is no way to find out if your puppy will develop any of these conditions. All you can do is to take care of your dog properly to prevent some of these severe medical conditions. Your growing dog should maintain a healthy weight because extra weight can be an additional weight on its spine. The ideal dog nutrition will also depend on any nutritional needs of your dog. If you are training your dog, never give treats as a reward. This encourages obesity and will only cause more problems for your dog. Here are top dog food brands that your German Shepherd Lab will surely love. Its core ingredients include ground brown rice, lamb meal, white rice, and chicken. It is all natural and contains no preservatives. Even a picky puppy will surely love this dog food. Precise Holistic Complete Large Breed Adult Formula Precise Holistic contains chicken, brown rice, chicken fat, and oatmeal and is considered the best organic dog food for large dogs. This comes with extra calcium and phosphorus needed by dogs to achieve its full, large size. This is a portion of irresistible dog food for large breed dogs such as your Lab German Shepherd mix. Just like any other dog, never give your German Shepherd Lab the following human food. Not all human food is safe for dogs. Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Grapes or raisins Salty foods and junk food Chocolate, coffee, or tea Onions, chives, and garlic If you want your dog to grow strong and healthy, you need to give them the best care in the world. So, start with their nutrition! That means you need to stay away from the worst dry dog food, and try out the best dry dog food instead. Your hairy friend comes from different parents and therefore you can experiment with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Our puppy friends need nutrition that is full of proteins and easy to digest. You can look for some ideas in the best puppy food brands. Senior dogs, in their grandpa style, need food which contains moderate protein levels as in the best senior dry dog food. Because of this, you need to spend ample time in a day to exercise and to walk this dog otherwise; it can develop destructive behavior. Play with your dog regularly to develop a strong bond with your pet. Remember that this dog will love to swim because of its Labrador Retriever lineage. A local dog pool or a pond would work great with your dog. If you have a large yard, an old, large vat will work great just for him to play and cool off. All dogs love to fetch and play Frisbee. Use other kinds of toys like large ropes so you can play pulling games. Use a giant ball for fetches like an old football or a tennis ball. Here are a few ideas 1. This is available in six sizes so you will surely find the best size for your medium to large-sized Lab German Shepherd mix. It is indestructible so your dog will undoubtedly spend hours playing with it. It is made from durable materials that will never break or chip. This is indestructible, and your dog will surely love to play with this over and over again. It is soft but is made to be indestructible. Your pet will surely love to chew on this soft bone. This will be his favorite toy in no time. Lab German Shepherd Mix Training The Lab crossed with a German Shepherd is a brilliant dog, but it may need more than simple traditional training techniques to train this dog. The following tricks will help you make your dog obey you in no time. The Clicker Technique Learn how to train your dog using a clicker. Press this, and you will hear an audible click, a sound that dog loves very much. The clicker may be used in all kinds of tricks, but the most common is for positive reinforcement. Just click the clicker when your dog can follow the trick and then click again if you want to repeat the behavior. Invest in a good clicker which is available in most pet stores online. This can contribute to obesity and other health problems related to being overweight. Reward good behavior by patting your dog, playing with him or giving him a good scratch. Tell your dog what a good dog he is and combines this with a lot of pats as reinforcement. Every dog takes his time so you must be patient. His bed should at the same place where he found it the first time while his food bowls should also be in the same area. Consistency is the key to training dogs important stuff. Also, consider talking to everyone at home regarding your rules and commands to reinforce consistency in training your dog. Train Your Dog In A Familiar Environment Dogs like the Lab are easily distracted; therefore you must train your pup in a quiet and familiar environment first before you take him out for further training. Start inside a quiet room with only you and him. You can train him outdoors once he is less distracted to noise and the presence of other pets and people. You may also opt for professional training for your Lab German Shepherd mix dog if you want your pup to grow up and become a service dog or police dog. German Shepherd Lab Mix and Families Lab German Shepherds can be great family dogs because these dogs love to be with their masters and to please them every way they can. These are patient with children and will never roughhouse or bite. They can even tolerate toddlers and very intense games like dress up and role play games. Lab German Shepherd mix dogs will love to be with other pets and even other dogs. They are not domineering and will never cause a fight. The Lab German Shepherd mix may become anti-social and may become aggressive with people or other dogs when they are not introduced to people and other pets early on. Your dog should be trained first and exposed to other dogs and people to prevent this untoward behavior. Well, you get the German Shepherd Lab mix, a lovable crossbreed with all the great personality traits you could ever want in a family dog. Also known as Lab Shepherd mixes or Shepradors, these mixed breed canines are highly sought after. The parent breeds are some of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Like all crossbreeds, Shepradors combine the physical and personality traits of their parents, resulting in a one-of-a-kind companion. Because they are a designer dog , there are no established breeding guidelines or standards. Oftentimes, pedigree information is scarce as well, creating a lot of unknowns. Canines are fully capable of crossbreeding on their own. In fact, many of the purebred dogs we know today are a result of centuries of careful breeding. As we mentioned earlier, this crossbreed is a direct result of breeding purebred German Shepherds with Labrador Retrievers. Labrador Retrievers have a very long history that dates back all the way to the s. Back then, they were working dogs that often helped out fishermen. Eventually, these dogs made their way to England where they became companions for European royalty. German Shepherds were working dogs, too. However, their main job was to herd sheep and other livestock for farmers. Today, Labradors and German Shepherds are very popular the world over. .Though, they are popular for very different reasons. Typically, Labs are known for their companionship. They make great family pets and are often used as guide dogs for those with disabilities. Meanwhile, German Shepherds are revered for their athleticism and intelligence. German Shepherd Lab Mix Temperament The beauty of mixed breed dogs is that they take on traits from both of their parents. German Shepradors are a perfect example of this. These dogs are a joy to be around. Whether that required physical work or simply good behavior, these pups are up for the task! Like all dogs, German Shepherds and their subsequent crossbreed are products of their environment. Shepradors make great family dogs. The combination of intelligent thinking and loyalty can prove to be useful in a home setting. Your watchdog will do all they can to protect your home while still being down for cuddles. However, helping your pup grow up to be obedient and well-behaved is manageable. You see, these dogs are very intelligent. In fact, some might say that they are too intelligent for their own good. This mainly comes from the German Shepherd side of the dog. German Shepherds are notorious for being stubborn. Shepradors can take on that personality trait, making the training process a bit more challenging. They may require more time and patience to truly understand things. Another issue you might encounter with German Shepherd mixes is the need for regular mental stimulation. Because they are so intelligent, you must constantly challenge their minds to keep them happy. Like all dogs, Shepradors do best when positive reinforcement is the training method of choice. While dominance-based training used to be the go-to, several studies have shown that punishments do more harm than good. German Shepherd mixes thrive when you use a reward system. Showering your dog with praise and providing plenty of treats is the best way to instill the training techniques. Despite all of this, you may see pups with vastly different characteristics. Genetics is not an exact science. Dominant genes from one parent dog may take over, causing the puppy to look more like one breed than the other. As a result, the crossbreed is going to fall into that same category. You can use information about their parents for reference, but several factors will contribute to their true adult size. Generally, males can weigh upwards of 88 pounds when fully grown. They will stand between 22 and 26 inches at the withers. This is the point between the shoulder blades of the dog. Females are typically smaller than males. You may come across females as small as 35 pounds. Though, most will be around 70 to 80 pounds. As for height, females tend to be between 20 and 24 inches at the withers. Both of the parent breeds are pretty athletic, so most mixed pups will be as well. They fall somewhere in the middle. Depending on their activity levels, you might notice strong muscle development on their hind legs. These dogs usually have wide snouts and dark noses. Their eyes are large and brown. Some pups may have light eyes, but this is quite rare. Genetic variations in the parent breeds can lead to lighter eyes, but a vast majority are going to have big brown eyes. One characteristic where you will see a lot of variation among these dogs is the ears. Most Labs have large ears that flop down over the sides of the head Meanwhile, perky triangular ears are one of the most defining traits of the German Shepherds. The interesting thing about the ears is that you will have to wait and see whether they stand tall or flop down. Puppies are born with soft and fluffy ears. As they grow older, the cartilage in their ears may or may not strengthen to help them stand up. Some pups even have a combination of the two ear styles! Colors Coat colors can vary across the board with these pups. German Shepherds have an iconic tri-color coat. Distinct patterns of gold, black, and white cover the body. The most common is gold. However, black and pure-white Labs exist as well. They may have multi-colored coats or solid ones. Lifespan The average lifespan for a German Shepherd Lab mix is between 10 and 12 years. This falls in line with the life expectancy of the parent breeds. Generally, larger dogs tend to have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. Many factors will affect how much time these dogs have. Health issues and a poor lifestyle can cut that lifespan short. On the same token, extremely healthy pups are fully capable of living past 12 years of age. Possible Health Issues Like all dogs, Shepradors are not immune to disease and health problems. In fact, they may be susceptible to more issues. The problem with mixing breeds is that it opens up the possibilities of health complications in the future. Hereditary problems from both parents can be passed to the puppy. Unfortunately, German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are known to suffer from a few different ailments. Here are the most common health concerns to be wary of. Dysplasia is a musculoskeletal condition that often affects dogs later in life. However, it takes years to develop and can be triggered by issues as a young pup. Take hip dysplasia for example. Hip dysplasia can cause debilitating pain. Many dogs who suffer from it have a hard time standing up. They may exhibit signs of extreme weakness in the hind legs, resulting in a noticeably different posture. The hip sockets become malformed, causing mobility issues with the hip joint. While some dogs are born with it, poor development as a puppy can exacerbate the problem. There are treatment options for hip and elbow dysplasia. Veterinarians can perform surgery early on to correct the problem and provide relief. If your dog is already suffering from it, physical therapy and joint supplements can provide relief from pain. Bloat Contrary to popular belief, bloat is not an innocent gas problem with dogs. It occurs when dogs eat too fast or exert physical exercise too soon after eating. Excess air is swallowed, filling the stomach. Eventually, the stomach can twist on itself. This restricts blood flow throughout the body. Provide small meals and prevent your dog from playing for at least 30 minutes. To control fast eating, you can utilize slow-feeding bowls or puzzle toys. They create an obstacle that forces the dog to eat slower than normal, which can do a lot to prevent GDV. Ocular Issues Eye diseases, such as progressive retinal atrophy, are pretty common with both parent breeds. The tissue within the eye can degenerate over time. This causes vision loss. From there, you can provide supplements or foods rich in beta carotene to slow its progression. Diet and Exercise Requirements Shepherd Labrador mixes are incredibly active dogs. They love nothing more than playing and getting tons of exercise. To make matters worse, a lack of exercise can turn into a lasting problem. You need to start your pup on the right foot and establish a healthy lifestyle right off the bat. Go for runs and toss chew toys around the yard. You can break up exercise time in manageable chunks throughout the day to make things easier. As long as you get those 90 minutes in, your dog should have no problem staying healthy. When it comes to diet, you must be just as vigilant! These dogs have insatiable appetites. However, you need to ensure that their food is meeting all of their nutritional needs. It should use wholesome proteins like chicken, beef, or fish. The dog food should also have complex carbs and healthy fats like fish oil. Steer clear of anything that has artificial ingredients or unnecessary fillers. Those foods will do more harm than good. The goal is to provide your dog with muscle-building protein that will keep their body in good shape. As a good rule of thumb, dogs will need about 30 calories of food for each pound of body weight. This usually amounts to about 4 cups of dry kibble a day. That said, foods can vary dramatically when it comes to nutritional density. We recommend splitting their caloric requirements into two small meals a day. One meal in the morning and one in the evening will keep their energy levels stable as they go about their active lifestyles. Plus, splitting the meals will help to avoid issues like bloat. However, thick coats need a bit of extra work. GSDs have double costs. The outer layer of hair is thinner and easier to manage. Meanwhile, the inner coat is thick and dense. It provides insulation in those cold winter months. German Shepherd Lab mixes can inherit that thick coat. They will go through shedding cycles a couple of times a year, resulting in a mess of fur throughout your home! With regular brushings, you can keep the fallout to manageable levels while keeping your pup clean. These pups make great family dogs. They get along just fine with kids as long as you socialize them early on. As always, you should never leave your dog alone with young kids. These crossbred dogs are fully capable of attacking people, so you should exercise caution and always keep a watchful eye. They should know not to pull their tail or agitate the dog in any way. Are German Shepherd Lab mixes good guard dogs? Shepradors make great guard dogs. Plus, they tend to be a bit suspicious of strangers. Are these dogs aggressive? This all depends on their upbringing. If you take the time to properly train and socialize these dogs, they will be gentle and loving. However, if the dogs are abused or trained with punishment, they could exhibit aggressive behavior. How big to German Shepherd Lab mixes get? Males can weigh as much as 88 pounds and grow to 26 inches tall at the withers. Do Shepradors get along with other dogs? German Shepherd Labrador mixes do just fine with other dogs. However, they must be properly socialized first. Exposure to other animals is key during their development. They should be introduced to new family dogs slowly to prevent any aggressive behavior. Do Shepradors make good working dogs? Thanks to their intelligence and high trainability, Labrashepherds make fine working dogs. They do particularly well herding livestock. Conclusion German Shepherd Lab mixes are a joy to raise. If you have an active lifestyle to keep them fit, they will be a great addition to your family. Treat them well and these pups will spend their lives being a loving canine companion. Search Dog Breeds. German Shepherd Lab mix puppies German Shepherd Lab mix dogs are a combination of energetic friendliness and natural protection. As well trained adults they have the potential to make great herding, hunting, retrieving, therapy, service or pet dogs. German Shepherd Lab mixes are affectionate with their family, but need plenty of exercise, shed heavily, and can be destructive if left alone for long periods. That is, they have one parent of each pedigree. So there is huge variation in how they look, and no standard appearance. Some have the telltale muzzle and tall ears of the German Shepherd, others more resemble a Labrador. The color of their coat will depend on the coloring of their parents. For example, a black Lab German Shepherd mix is likely to have a dark coat, and a German Shepherd yellow Lab mix is likely to have a mid-toned coat. There are even arresting-looking white German Shepherd Lab crosses. An ultra-warm undercoat and a coarse outer coat to protect them from the elements as they work outdoors. This is because the gene for long coats is recessive and very unusual among Labs. Gathering up their lost hair will be a never-ending task! A good vacuum cleaner is essential. This might be reason enough to choose a different crossbreed if you have a busy family or someone with allergies in the home. German Shepherds are large dogs. They stand 22 — 26 inches tall at their shoulder blades, and weigh 49 — 88 pounds. Meanwhile, Labs are a medium sized breed, 22 — 25 inches tall at their shoulders, and 55 — 80 pounds on the scales. A Labrador German shepherd mix could be as petite as their smallest parent or as big as their largest parent. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could weigh anything from 55 pounds to 80 pounds. As usual, the lower end of the range is typically made up of female dogs, and the top end is dominated by the boys. They love to interact with people, show their affection, and get on well with children. Also, the German Shepherd is confident, courageous and smart. They are loyal and full of life. Furthermore, Labradors and German Shepherds are both fast learners and eager to please. German Shepherds in particular need productive ways to channel their intelligence, or they will get into mischief to stave off boredom. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could inherit any combination of the traits of their parents, which is why meeting both parents before committing to bringing home a puppy is so important. Socialization Socialization is the process of making a dog comfortable with other animals, people, places and activities. Even for breeds that are known to be friendly and easy-going, like Labradors, socialization is very important. German Shepherd Lab mixes are likely to inherit a love of people and company from both sides of their family tree. But socializing them properly as puppies will be vital to give them the confidence they need in meeting new people. German Shepherds, despite their great loyalty to their family, can be wary of strangers. So thorough socialization from puppyhood is essential, even for a mix. For instance, Socialization can involve having new people call over to the house regularly so your pup gets used to new faces and voices. It can also involve introducing your puppy to new dogs, cats, children and other animals so that they do not become fearful or territorial. A young dog in good health could require even more. They will also need human company for much of the day, and training to keep those big brains from getting bored. They are working dogs at heart. Highly motivated to learn and impress you with their ability to follow instructions. Like with any dog, training them is an ongoing commitment that lasts a lifetime. But with your ultra smart dog it should be a satisfying and rewarding one. German Shepherd and Labrador Health Magnification of health problems in pedigree dog breeds has become a well-documented problem. Labrador Health One of the biggest health problems facing Labradors today is hip and elbow dysplasia — looseness in the joints that eventually leads to painful arthritis. Another is progressive retinal atrophy, a gradual failure of the retina at the back of their eyes that can ultimately leave them blind. Also, Labs are also notoriously greedy, and prone to obesity if their penchant for snacking is indulged too often. Another less serious but common issue in Labs is ear infections. These are easily treated but may require veterinary care and frequent inspections. In addition, they are more than usually prone to: Gastrointestinal diseases. Shedding is a must in German shepherd lab mix puppies so brushing is extremely important during the shed season. You may also bathe them once in 2 months keeping in mind the weather condition in your hometown. Cutting nails can be good but you can choose to trim them as it would not be a good idea to cut nails thoroughly. These include the type of food that your dog is used to eating, the ingredients in the food, and the size of the dog. German Shepherds are bred as working dogs, so they are typically used to eating food that is high in protein and low in carbs so does labrador. A diet that is high in protein and low in carbs is a good fit for a German Shepherd lab mix as well. One thing to keep in mind is the size of the food. The German Shepherd lab mix is a large dog, so a diet that is too small or too heavy might not work for them. Small meals can make your dog lazy and heavy meals can lead to bloating. A balanced diet is a key to keeping your dog happy and healthy. You can also make proportions of a heavy meal that can be given multiple times a day. Experts consider feeding your dog a fresh meal is way healthier than giving them a processed meal. If you are still confused then you can consult your vet because he will prescribe food according to the size and health of your dog. Fun Facts: This dog is extremely energetic and active. He will not let you rest once you start playing with them. If he takes after the Labrador side, he will chew everything that comes his way So better keep your favorite stuff hidden from him. Constant dominance-based training does not work with GSD lab mix dogs. While training them you must think out of the box and present some creative methods of training. This dog can be your best guard dog, the reason is that both the parents are excellent guard dogs and loyal to their homes. In the United States, Labrador is the number one favorite and famous dog while the German shepherd is the second number. Breeders decided to take advantage of it and crossed these two breeds. Both German Shepherd and Labrador shed heavily due to their double coat, Therefore their pup will also have heavy shedding during the season. However, there are some things that should be considered before getting one. Knowledge is power and it will be a good time for you to get the best dog to have the best time in life. The German shepherd lab mix is the ultimate family dog, so before adopting one, make sure you have time to spend with this energetic breed. Because Labrador loves to be around its human, so does its mixed puppy. They will be at their best if you keep them happy by showing love and affection and keeping close. They might go bananas if you do not spend enough time with them, and they may also show destructive behavior such as starting to dig or chewing things around. This can also increase anxiety levels and make your dog depressed. They love kids and are great companions. They are good with other pets in the house if you introduce them in the right way. Keep other pets away from this dog. If you see their aggressive behavior, They might not like them sometimes. They get bored too easily due to which they need constant mental stimulation. Keeping the German shepherd lab mix clean, and timely walks and activities can improve the overall health of the dog. Brush them often as their shedding is high. German Shepherd Lab Mix Exercise: As mentioned above this breed is restless and super active for which it is important to keep this dog tired. Exercising this dog is one of the vital factors. The German Shepherd is a super active dog with full energy. On the other hand, Labrador is also an energetic dog so we can predict their mixed pup will also have these traits. Regular walks to the park are essential. They can be your great companions for hiking, swimming or running. Most people are confused if a German Shepherd Labrador mix can swim? Of course, they can swim because of their Labrador lineage. There is one thing that you should keep in mind that you have to train them for swimming and introduce them to pools. Because they are easily bored, try to play different games. Games that have purpose and are effective for physical and mental stimulation. Before adopting a dog, always make sure you are doing justice to them in terms of weather. There are some dogs who are a good fit for summer and who do well in winter but if we talk about German shepherds and Labradors they both are not good for hot weather. As a matter of fact, they both love winter. You may notice German shepherds are super happy during the winter season and lazy during hot weather. The same goes for Labrador. German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coat dog who would love to open up during cold times of the year. They are extra playful and joyful under the snow. New owners have this confusion they might feel cold in the snow while in reality, it is the opposite, They enjoy the snow more than humans. This time is the best time when you can play with your dog and train different activities. They may also show you a high energy level and excitement while training and exercising. As we all know positive energy emits positivity, you will also feel fresh and energetic if you spend some playtime with your German Shepherd lab mix. Did you know they may get heat stroke if they are kept outside during the daytime in hot weather? There are cases where the owner kept the German Shepherd outside during hot weather and the heat results in heart failure in the dog. There are extreme cases as well. This is because the German Shepherd is a large dog with a double coat and cannot tolerate heat for a long time, and so does the German Shepherd lab mix. If you are in a country where the temperature goes high then better not to adopt a dog who has a double coat. Also, if there is mild Summer Heat in your hometown, You may take care of a German Shepherd lab mix pup by providing them with enough water all the time so they can stay hydrated. Do not leave them outside and keep them under the shade. This way you can protect your mixed breed from many problems caused by heat. German Shepherd Mixed with Labrador Puppies for Sale: Crossbreeding was not popular back then, this practice started in the last decade only, and people are still not familiar with designer breeds. If we see the graph we will see how fast this trend has grown and people are owning these hybrids to enjoy new experiences. Although it is a little difficult to find mixed breed dogs. German Shepherd and lab mix is one of the popular and well-known designer breeds. You might be wondering where to get a german shepherd lab mix puppy as this is not usual to get a mixed dog. First of all we would like to suggest you visit your nearest shelter house and see if you can get one from there. If you cannot get a dog from a shelter house you can visit different breeders in your area. It completely depends on how the dog was raised, the quality of living, and the quality of food he had been given. Conclusion: Finally, we have given you all the quality information about the German shepherd mixed with the lab. German Shepherd lab mix is a loving and protective dog, who may eat up anything to death if they love you. They make amazing family pets as well as prove to be the best guard for your family. They are energetic and love to play all the time. They can keep a sad person happy and active. They are best friends to those who show them some affection. However, it is a crossbreed dog of German shepherd and Labrador Retriever. They have sweetness like Labrador and Intelligence like a German shepherd, you will fall in love with this crossbreed if you are a fan of both German shepherd and Labrador. Post navigation.

This includes brushing the coat to remove mats, as well as clipping or shaving certain areas around the face. For a more rounded look, some owners opt to shave off fur around the eyes and mouth, while others choose to leave it intact. Do poodle round face exist? Yes, poodle round face does exist. Check our other article do really long leg poodle found Poodles are a breed of dog that comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. They are known for their curly coats and they come in many colors such as white, black, brown, gray, apricot, and silver. Poodles also have distinct facial features that can vary depending on the size and color of the dog. For instance, toy poodles typically have small round faces with big eyes and floppy ears while standard poodles usually have longer oval-shaped faces with tall ears and lighter eyes. Additionally, some poodle breeds may even have more of a rounded face due to selective breeding. Do Mini poodle with round face Mini poodles are a popular breed of dogs because of their loyal, affectionate, and friendly nature. Their small size makes them ideal for those living in small spaces, while their intelligence and active personality make them great companions. Mini poodles have a round face that is characterized by large eyes and ears, giving them an adorable appearance. They come in a variety of colors ranging from white to black and can have curly or corded coats. In addition to the physical traits that make mini poodles so attractive, they are also highly intelligent and easy to train. This makes them excellent candidates for obedience training or agility competitions. Overall, mini poodle with round face is an excellent pet choice for those who want a loyal companion with an endearing appearance. By Yvonne Villasenor Yvonne Villasenor is a freelance writer and animal lover who just so happens to be allergic to cats and dogs. That doesn't stop her from cuddling with them! When Yvonne's not working, you can find her lounging with her charming Chihuahuas, weightlifting, or wandering around Halloween stores. Having such unique and versatile fur means there are countless poodle haircuts for you to choose from, and a professional groomer can give your poodle a makeover with a hairstyle that best matches her personality and lifestyle. With so many options available, learn how your poodle can look like anything from a plush toy to elegant royalty! Teddy Bear Cut The teddy bear cut is a popular trim for poodles and other long-haired breeds. With this look, your poodle has longer hair on her face for a soft, rounded "teddy bear" appearance, and the rest of the fur on her body is cut at a shorter, uniform length throughout. Talk about cuddly cuteness! Summer Cut Because poodles have a single coat, they can enjoy the luxury that comes with it: the summer cut. Known as one of the most low-maintenance poodle haircuts, the summer cut is a practical haircut option that keeps your poodle's fur short so she stays comfortable in hot weather. So if you're looking to cut your hair to beat the heat in the summer, you and your poodle can rock shorter hairdos together! Puppy Cut No matter your poodle's age, you can seemingly turn back time with the puppy cut. Also a popular choice among poodle parents, the puppy cut is a simple, natural-looking trim that leaves your dog with an evenly cut length, typically 1 to 2 inches, all over. This is a highly modifiable look, so consult your groomer for a length that best fits your and your dog's preference and lifestyle. Continental Cut The continental cut is a glamorous and traditional hairstyle often worn by poodle show dogs. With this look, your poodle's face, throat, feet, and part of the tail are shaved. This look is characterized by full hair on the rib cage and chest, pom poms of fur on the tail, ankles, and hips, as well as a banded topknot on the head. German Trim Looking for a haircut that looks fancy but not too fancy? The German trim uses the power of angles to give your poodle a sharp profile. The hair on your furry friend's legs is left long, while the hair on the body and ears is cut short. This is a great option not only if your poodle is more active but also if your pup is prone to ear infections or ear matting. Modern Cut The modern cut is an elegant hairstyle that combines aesthetics with your poodle's natural features. This cut keeps the hair on the body short, accentuating your poodle's shape. The fur on the head, ears, and tail is left longer to create a fluffy appearance. When your dog has such curly, coarse locks, you may wonder how many trips to the groomer you and your poodle may be making. Poodles and poodle-crosses also go through a coat change in the first year of life, so they need to be groomed more often," says Danna Alexander, owner of Prestige Dog Grooming School. To keep mats and tangles at bay, it's best to brush your poodle at least two to three times a week. Toy poodle haircuts aren't off limits for miniature and standard poodles, just as standard poodle haircuts aren't off limits for miniature and toy poodles. While any poodle can sport any style, there may be common options you'd like to choose from. Because there are various names for different types of poodle haircuts, make sure to bring your groomer a photo of the haircut you'd love your pooch to have. Was this page helpful? This will be good practice for later on — for both of you! Yes, haircuts are essential for Poodles. Their thick, long, curly coats are prone to tangling and trapping debris. When will my Poodle puppy need haircuts? Then, at around four months old, they will shed their puppy coats and start to grow out their rougher adult coats. Frequency As a general rule, Poodles should have their coats clipped every weeks once their adult coats grow out, whatever your desired length. This is because they grow so quickly and can become matted just as fast! What equipment should I use? There are three main types of dog grooming scissors; straight scissors, curved scissors, and thinning shears, and they all perform slightly differently. Straight grooming scissors are a multi-task tool, they have straight blades for general, basic grooming, creating straight lines in the coat, and adding the finishing touches to haircuts. Curved dog grooming shear has a curved blade that can be used to fine-tune and shape specific areas of the coat, such as the paws and hindquarters. Thinning shears have a cutting edge on one blade and teeth on the other, and there are also double thinners that have teeth on both blades. They are designed to remove lots of hair in even sections for a natural finish, and they can also be used to blend out the harsh lines from clippers and texturize the coat. Or, if you just need something for the occasional touch-up between visits to the groomer, a simple pair of electrical motor clippers will do just fine. Electric motor clippers are also good for keeping short coats short. You should also be aware of the types of blades that come with clippers. The higher the number of the blade, the more hair that it will remove. Or, you can get guards that fit a single blade to customize the length, which is a lot more convenient. Start by showing them the equipment and getting them used to the sight and sound of it before you cut any hair. Reward them just for being around it and then try cutting a small section of hair. If they react well, reward them again, and then do another section. Keep rewarding them as you go and again after the haircut is finished. Do it in a well-lit, comfortable part of the home that your pup can stand up in. Once you get them into a routine — keep it up! Work your way down the legs first, then from the neck to the hindquarters, or vice versa, and then the tail. Take care with the feet, underside, and head, shielding their eyes from falling fur. Use long strokes and go from the neck down to the back legs. How to deal with grooming anxiety If your pup is afraid of the scissors or clippers, take it really slowly and try to make it an enjoyable experience. You can do this by breaking up the haircut into smaller sessions to make it less stressful and taking breaks in between each one. Give your dog lots of praise and a reward every time you take a break and ask another family member to comfort them during the haircut. You can start brushing your Poodle from any age. To brush them, simply go in the direction of hair growth using short strokes. Hold the fur at the base with your free hand to remove knots, and use a mat remover for any stubborn mats. Bathing a Poodle puppy As for bathing, you should give your Poodle pup their first proper bath at months old to help them shed their puppy coat, unless they get seriously dirty before that. However, you can give your pup a bath any time after weeks of age to get them used to the sensation, but avoid overbathing them, as this will strip the fur of its natural oils and make it dry and brittle. Once they have their adult coats, your Poodle pup will need a bath once a month. You can even buy shampoo that is designed especially for Poodle coats. To give your Poodle a bath, lather up their wet fur with the shampoo, massage it in, leave it for as long as directed on the bottle, and rinse thoroughly. Follow up with conditioner if necessary. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

Q: We have a Labrador Retriever who is 10 months old. He has all his adult teeth, so he should no longer be teething. But he is incredibly destructive still — he chews up everything he can get hold of. What can we do? A: Among veterinarians, there's a saying about Labradors : "Chew till they're two; shed till they're dead. In the same way, what you're dealing with now is also normal for many dogs. Retrievers, especially, are known for their love of chewing throughout their adolescence, along with the lifelong fondness many of them have for carrying items in their mouths. Carrying things back — retrieving — is, after all, the job they were developed to do. To get a handle on the chewing, your family needs to limit your dog's ability to get to those items you don't want chewed. While doing that, offer your dog lots of chew toys to satisfy this healthy, natural behavior, and work on rewarding your dog for making the right choices when he chooses what to chew. You also need to make sure your dog is getting enough exercise — at least a half hour of heart-pumping activity every day to take the edge off his youthful exuberance. Your veterinarian can advise you on choosing healthy, safe chew toys, and there have never been more choices. One perennial favorite is the Kong , which can be stuffed with goodies such as peanut butter and broken dog biscuits to make it even more appealing. If you catch your dog chewing something he shouldn't, don't punish him. Really, the fault isn't his, but rather your family's for not supervising him better. Instead, transfer his attention to a favorite chew toy and then praise him for chewing on that. Expect that your dog's perfectly normal and healthy interest in chewing will continue for at least another year. Chewing accomplishes a number of things for a dog. Chewing also combats boredom and can relieve mild anxiety or frustration. Rule Out Problems That Can Cause Destructive Chewing Separation Anxiety Dogs who chew to relieve the stress of separation anxiety usually only chew when left alone or chew most intensely when left alone. They also display other signs of separation anxiety, such as whining, barking, pacing, restlessness, urination and defecation. To learn more about separation anxiety and how to treat it, please see our article, Separation Anxiety. Fabric Sucking Some dogs lick, suck and chew at fabrics. Some experts believe that this behavior results from having been weaned too early before seven or eight weeks of age. Hunger A dog on a calorie-restricted diet might chew and destroy objects in an attempt to find additional sources of nutrition. Dogs usually direct this kind of chewing toward objects related to food or that smell like food. Much like human infants, puppies go through a stage when they lose their baby teeth and experience pain as their adult teeth come in. This intensified chewing phase usually ends by six months of age. Some recommend giving puppies ice cubes, special dog toys that can be frozen or frozen wet washcloths to chew, which might help numb teething pain. Although puppies do need to chew on things, gentle guidance can teach your puppy to restrict chewing to appropriate objects, like his own toys. Normal Chewing Behavior Chewing is a perfectly normal behavior for dogs of all ages. Both wild and domestic dogs spend hours chewing bones. This activity keeps their jaws strong and their teeth clean. Dogs love to chew on bones, sticks and just about anything else available. They chew for fun, they chew for stimulation, and they chew to relieve anxiety. While chewing behavior is normal, dogs sometimes direct their chewing behavior toward inappropriate items. Both puppies and adult dogs should have a variety of appropriate and attractive chew toys. Dogs need to learn what is okay to chew and what is not. They need to be taught in a gentle, humane manner. Keep shoes and clothing in a closed closest, dirty laundry in a hamper and books on shelves. Make it easy for your dog to succeed. Provide your dog with plenty of his own toys and inedible chew bones. Pay attention to the types of toys that keep him chewing for long periods of time and continue to offer those. Use caution: Only give your dog natural bones that are sold specifically for chewing. Do not give him cooked bones, like leftover t-bones or chicken wings, as these can splinter and seriously injure your dog. Also keep in mind that some intense chewers may be able to chip small pieces off of natural bones or chip their own teeth while chewing. Offer your dog some edible things to chew, like bully sticks, pig ears, rawhide bones, pig skin rolls or other natural chews. Dogs can sometimes choke on edible chews, especially if they bite off and swallow large hunks. If he has to chew in the presence of other dogs, he might feel that he has to compete with them and try to quickly gulp down edible items. Identify times of the day when your dog is most likely to chew and give him a puzzle toy filled with something delicious. Discourage chewing inappropriate items by spraying them with chewing deterrents. When you first use a deterrent, apply a small amount to a piece of tissue or cotton wool. Allow him to taste it and then spit it out. If your dog finds the taste unpleasant, he might shake his head, drool or retch. Reapply the deterrent every day for two to four weeks. Please realize, however, that successful treatment for destructive chewing will require more than just the use of deterrents. Do your best to supervise your dog during all waking hours until you feel confident that his chewing behavior is under control. Then praise him happily. For example, if you work during the day, you can leave your dog at home in a confinement area for up to six hours. Use a crate or put your dog in a small room with the door or a baby gate closed. Provide your dog with plenty of physical exercise playtime with you and with other dogs and mental stimulation training, social visits, etc. If you have to leave your dog alone for more than a short period of time, make sure he gets out for a good play session beforehand. Some puppies and juvenile dogs like to chew dirty underwear. This problem is most easily resolved by always putting dirty underwear in a closed hamper. Likewise, some puppies and dogs like to raid the garbage and chew up discarded sanitary napkins and tampons. This can be very dangerous. If a dog eats a sanitary item, it can expand while moving through his digestive system. Most young dogs grow out of these behaviors as they mature. Lack of Exercise or Mental Stimulation Some dogs simply do not get enough physical and mental stimulation. Bored dogs tend look for ways to entertain themselves, and chewing is one option. To prevent destructive chewing, be sure to provide plenty of ways for your dog to exercise his mind and body. Great ways to accomplish this include daily walks and outings, off-leash play with other dogs, tug and fetch games, clicker training classes, dog sports agility, freestyle, flyball, etc. To reduce this kind of chewing, try to avoid exposing your dog to situations that make him nervous or upset. Dogs who are prevented from engaging in exciting activities sometimes direct biting, shaking, tearing and chewing at nearby objects. A dog who sees a squirrel or cat run by and wants to chase but is behind a fence might grab and chew at the gate. A dog watching another dog in a training class might become so excited by the sight of his canine classmate having fun that he grabs and chews his leash. Agility and Flyball dogs are especially prone to this behavior because they watch other dogs racing around and having a great time, and they want to join in the action. The best intervention for this problem is to anticipate when frustration might happen and give your dog an appropriate toy for shaking and tearing. In a class situation, carry a tug or stuffed toy for your dog to hold and chew. If your dog is frustrated by animals or objects on the other side of a fence or gate at home, tie a rope toy to something sturdy by the gate or barrier. Provide shelter dogs and puppies with toys and chew bones in their kennels. Whenever possible, teach them to approach the front of their kennels and sit quietly to solicit attention from passersby. He cannot connect your punishment with some behavior he did hours or even minutes ago. This is inhumane, will teach your dog nothing, and dogs have died from this procedure. Do not tie a damaged object to your dog. This is inhumane and will teach your dog nothing. Do not leave your dog in a crate for lengthy periods of time more than six hours to prevent chewing. Do not muzzle your dog to prevent chewing. Other Ways to Help:. The first step is to make sure you have removed the causes of chewing. In many homes, everyone is out at work all day, and young dogs can get very bored when left alone for long periods. Try to give your dog a good long walk before you leave for work, and arrange for someone to come in and take him for another walk part way through the day. She is more likely to relax and sleep rather instead of dismantling your sofa cushions if she has had enough exercise. If your day is a very long one, consider sending him to doggy day care, where he will enjoy the company of other dogs while you are at work. Combining a dog with full time work can be challenging and you may need some extra help. Many of our regular posters understand the issues of separation anxiety very well. Preventing Separation Anxiety If your older dog has a separation anxiety issues, consider a consultation with a dog behaviorist. They will be able to assess your dog in his home environment and give you a plan to help. If you have a young puppy , you can help them to avoid developing separation anxiety. You can teach your puppy to cope with being alone for short periods of time from an early age. Check out my click for quiet article for more information on helping puppies that cry when you leave them. Make sure that puppies left alone for more than a minute or two have something appropriate to occupy them. Rescue dogs may need similar treatment, and you can introduce them to separation gradually when you first bring them home. Now, what about chewing for pleasure? This means redirecting his chewing activities onto sensible alternatives. Chewing For Pleasure Chewing for pleasure is one cause of chewing you cannot and should not try to remove or prevent in your dog. What we do with dogs that like to chew for pleasure, and that includes all puppies, is redirect their chewing onto something more appropriate than your favorite shoes. However, most people give their dogs chew toys and then wonder why he prefers to gnaw on the table legs. The fact is, most chew toys are rather boring. How do we keep playing and chewing interesting, and save your long-suffering furniture from harm? A few other toys and distractions can work well. For most Labradors, that means food! Dipping chew toys in savory spreads like yeast extract or peanut butter can help extend the pleasure time, but not for long. However, in my experience, even long-lasting chews can become boring after a while. The answer lies in the wonderful Kong toy. In fact what you need is not one, but several Kongs. Toys, like the Kong, that contain food but make the dog work to get at it, are a useful distraction that can also stop doggy boredom. Your job is to fill this hollow centre with something delicious and then, as the most important part, freeze it solid. When you leave your puppy or young dog alone or unsupervised for long — give him a frozen Kong first. This will keep him happy for quite some time. Choosing The Right Kong You can get Kongs in puppy sizes for little ones and in black extra strong rubber for really strong chewers. Kongs are not the cheapest toy, but they are an indispensable aid to preventing destructive chewing in the long term. This is especially important with dogs that have an existing chewing habit or suffer from boredom or anxiety. In a way, a Kong is an iPad for dogs! In young puppies, you want to prevent those habits developing in the first place. In both cases, this is a physical issue. When it comes to avoiding or breaking bad habits, you need to physically prevent the puppy from indulging in them. Some people struggle with this. They are hoping for a magic command or cue to give their dog that will prevent chewing in their absence. Dogs like the smell of feet and Labs love to carry shoes around, looking very pleased with themselves. One thing you can do is teach your Lab to bring your shoes to you and hand them over, rather than running off with them. We invested in a shoe rack for our front and back porches and taught everyone to leave their shoes there rather than in the hall or on their bedroom floors. If your bedrooms are upstairs you can insist the family puts their shoes in their rooms. You can then place a dog gate across the bottom of the stairs so your pooch has no access. This kind of strategy is especially important with puppies. Before we adopt our first dog, most of us are used to being able to put things down on the floor or low tables. They will still be there when we come back. If you leave the TV remote on the chair, your puppy will pick it up. You should remind the family to pick up stuff in rooms where puppies have free access. Now, what about furniture? One solution is to block access to that particular room except under supervision. Again, a dog gate or baby gate works well. If you have an open plan home, you can buy extended systems that can literally divide an entire room Another solution is to try some kind of spray on dog chewing deterrent Using A Stop Dog Chewing Spray You can buy spray on repellents that will deter some puppies and dogs from chewing. These are intended to deter dogs because of the odor. You can try spraying it on your table legs and see if it works. It is alcohol free and you can even spray it on your furniture and clothes. Make sure you buy a spray intended for furniture rather than for spraying on dogs that are nibbling themselves. They can be effective, but there are no guarantees. Think hard about providing your dog with more company or mental stimulation as well as breaking the chewing habit with barriers or sprays. Bear in mind that some puppies and dogs seem indifferent to the taste of the spray and will happily carry on chewing wood even when it you coat it liberally in unpleasant substances! I would swear that one of my dogs chewed things even more! Accordingly, in many cases, dog gates are the best option if a dog chews everything. Baby gates are fine. If you are interesting in finding out more about this then check out our puppies and baby gates article. If you are going to crate your puppy, you need to do so for very short periods of time and leave the enough puppy suitable chew toys to occupy his need to chew while you are gone. Crates are also really useful in vehicles and can save you from a lot of heart ache. One small dog can run up a very large bill when left alone in the interior of a car for a few minutes. Many years ago, my young Labrador ate through both the passenger and driver safety belts in our Landrover when we left him alone for less than twenty minutes. That was a very expensive lesson for us as a young hard-up couple. Using a crate in the vehicle is often a better solution, at least until your Labrador has got past the chewing stage. Check out our Travel Crates For Labradors section for detailed reviews. One problem that often crops up is puppies destroying their own bedding. What About Puppy Bedding? People often ask me what they can do about their puppy chewing up his own bed. This is a tricky one. None of us wants to see a puppy without a bed, but if your puppy is tearing lumps off his and swallowing them, you are going to need to remove it for a while. You can heave a sigh of relief and put away your gates and your bitter spray. If you are thinking about putting away your puppy crate, be aware that it is very tempting to de-crate big dogs too soon. This is because large dogs need large crates, and these crates are an unsightly nuisance in all but the biggest houses. Some will continue until they are around two years old. So, a little patience is required. Remember to be very generous with those frozen Kongs during the de-crating process, and for the next few months. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Why Labradors Like To Chew On Everything You come home after a long day at work to your destroyed furniture and wonder why your Labrador keeps doing that. There are a few reasons why Labradors chew on the furniture. Teething All puppies go through the stage of losing their baby teeth and having their adult teeth come out. This is called the teething stage and it is followed by pain. You will catch your Lab puppy chewing stuff because it helps relieve its pain. The teething phase for Labradors ends around six months of age. It will usually last to around the second year of age. Separation Anxiety Labradors are social dogs and they need consistent love and attention. This is a behavioral problem that manifests with barking, chewing, urinating, defecating, whining, and restlessness. If it is left alone for a longer period of time, make sure you have someone to check up on your pup. Boredom Everyone has a different tolerance for boredom. Some can chill for long periods of time, while others need constant stimulation. Some dogs may be licking your legs as a way to relax and pass the time. Labradors are high-energy dogs and they need their regular physical and mental needs met. You will catch your Labrador puppies chewing on your furniture if they become bored. This is a way to spend all that energy and frustration they have built up throughout the day. Make sure it gets enough exercise to prevent this behavior. Fabric Sucking Some dogs display behavior of licking, sucking, and chewing certain fabrics. The current scientific belief is that this is a behavioral problem that happens in puppies that get weaned too early. This is before it reaches seven or eight weeks of age. If this behavior is happening for a long period of time it might become difficult to distract your dog from doing it. This means that it has become compulsive. There are many behavioral specialists that can help with this problem. Relaxation And Habits You will wonder why do Labs chew everything and you simply can not find the reason. Your Labrador might be chewing for fun. There might not be a specific reason why it does that besides the fact that it finds it relaxing. The problem will become more serious once your Lab develops a deeply ingrained habit to chew on the furniture every time it wants to relax. Habits can be quite difficult to change so you should do some serious training to prevent them from developing. Hunger Your Labrador might end up chewing on your furniture or other things if it gets too hungry. A calorie-restricted diet will lead to more hunger and frustration. This is why you should feed it a healthy low-carb diet full of protein. If you notice your dog chewing and swallowing stuff that is not food, it might have a health condition called pica. You should consult your vet as soon as possible to prevent any more problems. Usually, health problems are not a common reason for chewing but they are possible. Some diseases can make your Lab aggressive. These include painful diseases like arthritis, ear pain, and stomach pain. They can also be diseases like thyroid problems, or mental diseases like anxiety and depression. Consult your vet if you suspect that your Lab is suffering from some illness. Now, here is how to stop a Labrador puppy from chewing furniture. Supervise Carefully One way to get rid of this behavior is with careful supervision and training. This might take more time of your day but it is an effective strategy. Keep an eye on your dog when you are around it. To make things easier, get a leash on it so you always have it in your sight. Once you are set up, observe its behavior. Then replace that item with something it can chew like a toy. Give praises afterward. Use A Chewing Deterrent Another way to stop your puppy from destroying the furniture is to use a chewing deterrent. This usually comes as a spray bottle filled with some bad-tasting liquid. You can spray this liquid on any object you want to preserve so it will stop your Lab from chewing it. If this is the first time you use this, follow these steps. First, apply a small amount of deterrent to a piece of tissue. Once it realizes it tastes bad it will spit it out or retch. Hopefully, it will learn its lesson and connect the smell with the taste. Once it smells that scent on the furniture it will avoid chewing it because of the bad taste. Ensure Proper Exercise Do Labs chew a lot because they are bored and filled with energy? Yes, they do. Labrador Retrievers are high-energy dogs and they need proper physical and mental exercise. An adult Labrador needs around 1 hour of exercise every day. You can do daily walks, but you should also do some more demanding exercises. These include running, swimming, hiking, and playing games. You can also socialize your Lab with other dogs and let them play in the dog park. For mental stimulation, you should do regular training sessions or get some mentally stimulating toys for your Lab. Try Crate Training Another great way how to stop a Labrador puppy from chewing furniture is to use a dog crate. You first need to do some crate training so your Lab can get comfortable in its crate. Then, whenever you leave your home, or during the night, you can leave your Lab in the crate. Make sure that you leave some safe chew toys for your Lab inside the crate so it has something to do. Offer Other Things For Chewing We know at what age do Labs stop chewing everything, but you should also know to get them some chew toys. Chew toys may seem like a luxury, but they are essential for keeping your dog entertained and away from its destructive chewing habit. If your puppy is teething, get a rubber toy and freeze it. When it gets to chewing it will soothe its gums. One toy we like to recommend is the Kong chew toy. It is a rubber toy that is hollow on the inside and can be filled with food. You can also get other things like bully sticks, bully stick holders, rawhide bones, pig skin rolls, or other natural chews. When your dog chews on something valuable get its attention and try to exchange it with the chew toy. Once it gets the chew toy, give it some praise. Hide Your Valuables Do Labs grow out of chewing? But until then you need to make sure your valuables are safe. Another thing that is important to remove is the stuff that is dangerous to chew. This includes your dirty underwear and sanitary items like napkins and tampons. It might poison itself if it chews them. You should also remove the spoiled food if you have some lying around. Also, make sure you dispose of your trash appropriately. We talked about a few ways to prevent Lab puppy chewing. But never punish your Labrador for chewing. If you come home from work and see your furniture destroyed from chewing you might get upset. Dogs will only react to scolding if you do it right after it does something wrong. Another thing you might do with punishing your dog after it does something bad is to make the outcome worse. Some dogs crave attention even if it is negative. So it will do it again. This is why you should avoid punishing, and instead use positive reinforcement methods like the ones we already talked about. Labradors will stop chewing around the age of two years. However, there are many reasons why this behavior might continue. The most common reason for chewing in Lab puppies is teething. Luckily this process ends around six months of age. Other reasons include separation anxiety, boredom, hunger, illness, or just bad habits. Some fabrics can also cause your dog to chew on them compulsively. If you want to stop your Labrador from doing this behavior you should never punish it. Punishing will only lead to more destructive chewing and tension between you and your dog. Instead what you should do is properly train your dog. Remove your valuables from its sight, supervise your dog carefully, and get it some chew toys to replace the furniture. You can also use crate training and chewing deterrents to help you with this process. FAQ How to stop a Lab from chewing during teething? Labs need to chew on things during teething, but you should give them appropriate things to chew on, like chew toys. You can also give it ice cubes or frozen chew toys to chew on. They will numb the teething pain. Are Labradors good house dogs? Even though Labradors tend to chew until their second year, they are excellent family dogs. They are protective of their families but also very friendly. And they also love playing with kids. When do Labs stop chewing their beds? If your Labrador has an ingrained habit of chewing on its dog bed you should remove it for a while. Replace it with a firm mat and supervise it. With training, you will be able to stop it from chewing its bed and get back to normal. Habit Dogs that chew when they are bored We all have different boredom thresholds, dogs are no different. Some dogs are quite happy to do very little for hours on end, others, not so much. Labradors are intelligent, sociable dogs, and are particularly prone to boredom if left alone for long periods. One way of relieving boredom, if you are a dog, is to chew things up! Chewing as a means to relieve anxiety Ideally, all dogs need to learn to spend time alone from puppyhood onwards. A well adjusted adult dog is then happy to be left from time to time, and will simply sleep when you are gone. Dogs which are not taught to accept some periods of solitude in puppyhood, dogs which are left alone for far too long, or dogs that have had traumatic experiences when left alone may develop a disorder called separation anxiety. A dog which becomes very anxious when left, may resort to destroying your possessions, or even the fabric of your home, in order to relieve his anxiety. Which brings us to the point that the act of chewing is in itself, is very pleasurable and calming to many dogs. Dogs chewing for relaxation and pleasure There is no doubt that many dogs simply chew for fun. It relaxes them, and makes them feel happy. The problems arise, when that chewing activity is directed at the wrong items — your items! Relaxation chewing is particularly common in Labradors and other retrievers. This is probably partly because we have bred them to enjoy having things in their mouths. Unusual causes of dogs chewing Occasionally a dog will start chewing because he has some kind of medical problem. This is more likely to be the cause if the chewing starts quite suddenly in an older dog that has never had a chewing problem before. Is my dog hungry? Eating is a fairly transient affair for most Labradors in any case, so you can never hope to prevent chewing by giving your dog something to eat. Is chewing a habit? Like many other stress busting or pleasurable activities, chewing can become a deeply ingrained habit. Habits can be difficult to change and breaking a habit may involve physically preventing your dog from parts of your home. What about punishing dogs for chewing? There are a number of problems with punishment in general, but punishment for chewing is especially problematic. Many Labradors are quite attention seeking, they have been bred to work closely with their human partners and being together, is very important to them. Behind your back Most destructive chewing in older dogs goes on behind your back, or when you are out. Punishment can sometimes be a way to teach your dog not to chew things in front of you. It is however nigh on impossible to teach a dog not to chew things in your absence. Punishment only works, if it occurs during the bad behaviour. Effectively, all punishment does, is teach your dog to be more sneaky about chewing. Staying friends with your puppy Remember also, that punishing a puppy will not prevent him chewing — he needs to chew and chewing is completely normal and natural for him. What punishment will do, is make your puppy afraid of you. The first step is to make sure you have removed the causes of chewing that can be avoided. Preventing your dog being bored Labradors need plenty of exercise and some company. In many homes, everyone is out at work all day, and young dogs can get very bored when left alone for long periods. Try to give your dog a good long walk before you leave for work, and arrange for someone to come in and take him for another walk part way through the day. He is more likely to relax and sleep rather instead of dismantling your sofa cushions, if he has had enough exercise. If your day is a very long one, consider sending him to doggy day care where he will enjoy the company of other dogs while you are at work. Combining a dog with full time work can be challenging and you may need some extra help. They will be able to assess your dog in his home environment and give you a plan to help him. If you have a young puppy, you can avoid separation anxiety developing by teaching your puppy to cope with being alone for short periods of time from an early age. Check out my click for quiet article for more information on helping puppies that cry when you leave them. And keep separations very short to begin with. Make sure that puppies left alone for more than a minute or two, have something appropriate to occupy them. Rescue dogs may need to be treated in a similar way, and introduced to separation gradually, when you first bring them home. Chewing for pleasure Of course there is one cause of chewing you cannot and should not try to remove, or prevent in your dog, and that is chewing for pleasure. What we do instead with dogs that like to chew for pleasure, and that includes all puppies, is redirect their chewing onto something more appropriate than your favourite shoes 2. This means redirecting his chewing activities onto sensible alternatives. Most people give their dogs chew toys. And wonder why he prefers to gnaw on the table legs. The fact is, most chew toys are rather boring. The ideal chew toy To really make chew toys appealing you usually need to add something interesting. And for most Labradors, that means food. Dipping chew toys in savoury spreads like marmite or peanut butter can help extend the pleasure time, but not for long. The answer lies in the wonderful Kong toy. In fact what you need is not one, but several Kongs. Why Kongs help stop Labradors chewing your things The kong is a hollow, tough, rubber toy that most dogs cannot destroy. The Kong Extreme is especially sturdy and great for very aggressive chewers. Your job is to fill this hollow centre with something delicious and then this is the important part freeze it solid. When you leave your puppy or young dog alone or unsupervised for long — give him a frozen Kong first. This will keep him happy for quite some time. Choosing the right kong You can get Kongs in puppy sizes for little ones, and in extra strong rubber black for really strong chewers. The red ones are suitable for most adult Labs. Kongs are not the cheapest toy, but they are an indispensable aid to the long term prevention of destructive chewing. This is especially important with dogs that have an existing chewing habit, or suffer from boredom or anxiety. What next? Avoid or break bad habits The final step in the plan is to break any existing bad chewing habits, and in young puppies, to prevent those habits developing. In both cases this is a physical issue. When it comes to avoiding or breaking bad habits, it means physically preventing the puppy from being able to indulge in them. Some people struggle with this. They are hoping for a command or cue to give their dog, that will prevent chewing in their absence. Putting things away Before we have our first dog, we are all used to being able to put things down on the floor or low tables, and for them to still be there when we come back. If you leave the TV remote on the chair, your puppy will pick it up. The best way is to prevent your puppy having access to rooms with important items in them, and to teach yourself and your kids to pick up your stuff in rooms where puppies have free access. Repellent sprays You can buy spray on repellents that will put some puppies off chewing. You can try spraying it on your table legs and so on. Bitter apple spray is a popular one , and it does work, for some dogs. Sadly not for all. Some puppies and young dogs seem indifferent to the taste and will happily carry on chewing your furniture or baseboards, even when liberally coated in unpleasant substances! A more effective solution, and one that is particularly suitable for puppies that are not yet fully house trained, is physical exclusion. Upstairs for example.