english bulldog puppies adoption

AAFCO is a non-profit group that establishes nutritional guidelines for pet food based on life stages. Growing puppies require food formulated for growth, which is labeled as growth or all life stages. Food labeled with an AAFCO statement for all life stages meets the minimum nutritional requirements for both puppies and adult dogs. Despite containing a higher level of protein, fats, and other nutrients essential for adult dogs, it can be fed to dogs at any life stage. Adult dogs require food formulated for maintenance, or they can eat food labeled as all life-stages. To meet the unique growth patterns and health needs of small- and large-breed puppies and adult dogs, our experts suggested feeding according to breed size. A recipe developed with the guidance of a board-certified veterinary nutritionist ensures the recipe has been formulated with the necessary nutrients for your dog's age and breed size. Therefore, you should consider a range of quality options across various price points. What is the best dry dog food vets recommend? According to our experts, the best dry dog food is the one that is palatable to your dog and meets AAFCO's nutritional guidelines for their life stage. It should also be affordable and approved by your veterinarian based on your dog's nutritional needs. Is dry food best for dogs? Both complete and balanced wet and dry dog food formulas can be nutritious choices for your dog, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Dry food is a convenient and cost-effective option for pets, and certain dental diets approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council can also promote oral health. However, if your dog could benefit from a moisture-rich diet, canned food is a better option. Consult your veterinarian if your dog has any conditions such as renal disease that can benefit from a moisture-rich diet. Is dry food healthy for puppies? If labeled with the AAFCO statement for puppies growth or all life stages, dry dog food is a healthy option for your puppy. Laflamme added that it's crucial to choose a recipe based on your dog's breed, as large- and small-breed puppies have distinct growth patterns and, as a result, differing calorie needs. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. She formally work for Purina's Research and Development team until her retirement in .He is also a veterinary consultant for Petco but does not receive financial compensation to recommend any brands. Why trust Select? Janelle Leeson is a Portland-based freelance writer who holds a bachelor of science degree in biology. Her approach to pet-care writing and reporting is rooted in scientific principles that consider a pet's biological need for play, proper nutrition and environmental enrichment. For this piece, Janelle interviewed two experts who specialize in veterinary nutrition. She also researched dozens of dry dog foods on the market that met criteria based on our experts' insights. She included dry dog foods recommended by experts, along with those that are highly rated and meet expert shopping guidance. Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date. Janelle Leeson Janelle Leeson is a Portland, Oregon-based freelance writer who covers everything pets and a few subjects in between, including sustainability and clean beauty.

Like many small dog breeds, Pugs reach their full size faster than medium to large-sized dogs. Pugs reach their adult size around nine months of age but may continue to put on a small amount of muscle until they are a year old. Image Source: Pexels How big should a 6-month-old Pug be? A six-month-old Pug will weigh between 7 and 12 pounds on average and will be close to their full adult height, which is typically around 10 to 13 inches tall. Pugs are highly prone to putting on excess weight and their food intake needs to be monitored closely. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on health, puppy-proofing practices, training, winter and summer safety, and more! How much bigger will my Pug get? Pugs reach their full size around nine months of age but may continue filling out until they are a year old. If your Pug is younger than nine months old, they are definitely still growing! If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, they are likely still growing. This is a classic puppy feature that indicates that more growth is needed. A puppy will rarely grow to be larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you an idea of their maximum size. What is the size of a full-grown Pug? According to the American Kennel Club Official Pug Standards , you can expect a full-grown Pug to weigh between 14 and 18 pounds and stand 10 to 13 inches tall. A full-grown Pug will appear compact and solid, rather than lean and leggy. If your Pug continues to put on weight past 18 pounds, reach out to your veterinarian to assess whether your Pug is putting on excessive weight. If your Pug weighs more than 18 pounds, consult with your veterinary professional to ensure that they are at their healthiest weight. Pugs are especially prone to heatstroke due to their compromised breathing. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to lessening the side effects of brachycephalic syndrome. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct narrow nostrils or elongated soft palettes. Many veterinary treatments and procedures cost thousands of dollars. When surveyed, Only .This is a crucial factor in why pet insurance is so valuable to pet parents. Pet insurance reimburses you a percentage of your out of pocket expenditure for veterinary bills. Not only can pet insurance provide you peace of mind should surgery or treatments be needed, but available wellness plans can significantly reduce the cost of routine veterinary exams or maintenance, like dog teeth cleaning or x-rays. Your veterinarian is your greatest resource in keeping your pup happy and healthy. Continue making healthy lifestyle choices, like daily exercise and a nutritious diet, for your Pug to keep them active and living their best life! Unfortunately, Pugs are prone to a larger number of health issues due to their brachycephalic syndrome and other genetic predispositions. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Overview When you have a dog from the age of a young pup, this gives you a wonderful opportunity. It offers you a chance to bond with your dog from the very beginning. This also gives you an advantage because you will be able to train and teach your pup what they need to know before they learn any bad behavior from elsewhere. This section will discuss how to care for a Pug puppy, starting at 8 weeks old and up until he or she is an adult, at the age of 1 year. Transition to a New Home Things will run much smoother if you plan ahead and have most, if not all, of your puppy care items already in your home. Here are the most important items to have: A crate — One with an adjustable size is best to fit the needs of a growing Pug puppy. Crating is a good night time method to use until a pup is housebroken. Gates or a playpen — Choosing an area to gate off or using a canine playpen are good options for when you must leave your Pug puppy home alone or for when you cannot be right at his side. This keeps the pup in a controlled space which helps in regard to bathroom needs and keeping a puppy in one area when he or she has strong chewing urges. Puppy food — This should be obtained before the puppy is brought home. Owners will not always agree with the food that a puppy has been being fed, however any change should be done gradually. Have the food that the Pug has been used to eating on hand, as well as your new choice. Details regarding making this change can be found here: Feeding a Pug. You'll also want them to be sized appropriately and at floor level. Honey — Puppies are prone to the condition of hypoglycemia, which is a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Stress, among other things, can bring this on and while going to a new home is a happy event, it can also be stressful for a little pup that is leaving all that he knew and no longer has the companionship and friendship of his litter-mates. Treatment can be provided at home as plans are being made to bring the puppy to the closest animal hospital or veterinarian. A small dab of honey is rubbed onto the gums and then the puppy should receive professional treatment, sometimes an IV to restore sugar levels back to normal. Leash, collar and harness — Pugs are prone to conditions that involve breathing problems. The body structure of this breed confines breathing passages into a small space and Pugs can have smaller than normal nasal passages and openings stenotic nares. For this reason, using a harness can help a Pug breathe easier when on leash. A short 6 foot leash works best for both potty training and heeling. Read more : Choosing the Best Collar and Harness for a Pug Grooming supplies — The thick coat of a Pug sheds heavily and brushing it well and offering baths on a regular basis can help control shedding. Starting dental care at a young age can help a puppy become used to this grooming element and set up a foundation for a life time of good dental hygiene practices. Keeping the wrinkles, eyes and ears clean are important part of caring for a Pug puppy. Read more: Shedding - Expect your Pug to shed a lot and be prepared by having the right tools. Dental care - Taking care of your Pug's teeth should be high on your priority list. Ears - Expected shapes and proper care. Wrinkles - Keeping the wrinkles dry and clean. Sleeping supplies - Some owners prefer to have their puppy sleep in the bed with them and while this is not always a bad thing, an owner should think about how that will play out as the pup matures into a much larger adult dog. Having a pup get used to his own canine bed from the beginning, set up in a quiet corner of a room, may work out best. Do keep in mind that Pugs crave human companionship and do not like to feel isolated. Setting up the bed in a quiet corner of a well-used room allows a Pug to have a nice area to retreat to for rest and sleep while allowing him to be close to his human family. It will be normal for a little one to sleep anywhere from 16 to 18 hours a day.This included both night time sleep and naps that will be taken throughout the day. Chew Toys — Teething will begin around the age of 3 or 4 months old and can last up until a Pug puppy is 8 months old. Having a good supply of toys on hand for a puppy to chew on is important. Puppy Proofing Before bringing a puppy home and on a regular basis at least weekly owners are encouraged to go over all floors to remove any small objects that could be accidentally swallowed. All items that could be chewed on such as pocket books and shoes should be placed up high until the Pug has matured. Whining It is normal for very young puppies to cry when first brought to a new home, this usually only lasts for a week or so as the pup becomes used to his new family and environment. This can also be a sign of needing to go to the bathroom, so following house training guidelines, be sure to take your Pug puppy outside on a regular basis. Vaccinations for the Pug Puppy An important part of caring for your puppy will be to make sure he or she is up-to-date for all needed vaccinations. An 8-week-old should already have received his shots, as well as a de-worming. Veterinarians will have varying schedules, however this is a general guideline: 5 weeks Parvovirus: For puppies at high risk of exposure to parvo, some veterinarians recommend vaccinating at 5 weeks. Dogs at high risk are those that live in areas where wild life raccoon, skunk, deer, etc. The inclusion of either canine adenovirus-1 or adenovirus-2 in a vaccine will protect against both adenovirus cough and hepatitis; adenovirus-2 is highly preferred. You will want to talk to your veterinarian about this. Reactions to Vaccines Immunizations are intended to stimulate the immune system to then protect a dog against a specific infectious disease. It is very important to have your Pug receive all needed vaccinations. Your Pug may react to immunizations in ways that range from soreness at the site of injection to mild fever to allergic reactions. The allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Mild- Mild reactions include fever, sluggishness, and loss of appetite. Mild reactions usually resolve without any treatment needed. This is called Urticaria. This happens when there is a reaction of the skin and shows as hives or bumps. It is usually extremely itchy. Urticaria may progress to anaphylaxis, which is considered life-threatening. However, Urticaria is the most common reaction in dogs if a reaction is to happen. Severe - The most severe reaction is anaphylaxis. This is a very fast, sudden, severe allergic response that causes breathing difficulties, collapse and possible death. This is very rare. Urticaria the moderate and most common reaction, if one is to occur happens soon after vaccination, often even before the puppy is brought home. It can happen in the car while you are driving back to your house. Your veterinarian will recommend immediate return to the hospital for treatment. Urticaria is usually treated successfully with injectable corticosteroids like dexamethasone or prednisone. Antihistamines do little to help with acute allergic reactions but may be given by injection to help prevent recurrence of symptoms after steroids wear off. Mild vaccination reactions usually require no treatment. However, if the symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, call your veterinarian. Growth Rate A Pug puppy grows quickly and this can happen gradually or with spurts and stops. Many Pug puppies have a growth spurt near the 3 to 5 month mark. As the pup nears the 1 year mark, growth will slow down. Once a Pug reaches his or her full height, there may still be some growth in the width of the Pug, as the chest widens and fills out. How a Pug ages and his growth is rapid, yet can be staggered during the first year. Getting Your Puppy Comfortable One of the most important parts of bringing a puppy home is allowing him or her to become used to their new surroundings. Allow your pup to roam around and check out his new environment. Be sure to keep a puppy's water in one designed spot so that the pup can know that it can always be found. The drinking and feeding area should be in a quite corner of a room, without much foot traffic or noise, since small puppies can feel vulnerable while eating. The absolute longest that a 2 month old pup can hold their needs is 2 hours. The bladder and bowel muscles are not yet fully developed. As they grow older, this time will increase as they have more control over their body. Usually it will increase by 1 hour for each month that goes by. Therefore, a 3 month old can hold on for about 3 hours, a 4 month old for about 4 hours and so on.With 8 hours being the maximum time for any age. Informational Note: When your 2 month old needs to go outside at least every 2 hours, be sure to not get stuck into that habit.It is important to slowly increase the time intervals. Your 3 month old can wait about 3 hours, but only if you allow the pup to use his bowel and bladder muscles to work and grow stronger. If an owner always brought their Pug outside every 2 hours, the dog would never learn to hold their needs for a longer period of time. Keep reading about the best way to house train a Pug puppy. All puppy vaccinations should be given before you take him or her out to the park, to pet supply stores or any other area in which there may have been or could be other animals. Many new owners already have another dog in the household. As your puppy grows older and is receiving the needed vaccinations, you can slowly begin introducing your new puppy to other dogs and allow normal socialization to begin. The Necessities of Care To have a healthy and happy puppy that will grow into a happy and healthy adult dog, make sure to always provide the essentials: A proper diet. You will need to decide if you want to offer manufacture food, home cooked food or a combination of both. Pugs are very sensitive to their human's emotions. A hug goes a long way! All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Punk and Star Photo courtesy of The Kuney's If you have had your Pug for a while, it may be hard to believe that your 12 year old dog is the equivalent age of 59 human years; however this is a guideline that refers to the breakdown of the body's ability to fend off disease, level of exercise a dog is able to handle and so forth. An owner can have a Pug in this teens that still loves to run around the park! Let's look at the milestones that a Pug will enter from birth until the senior years. Birth to 8 Weeks - Many owners do not see this stage, however newborn Pug puppies double and triple their weight very quickly. Newborns will sleep up to 22 hours per day. Those at the 8 week mark will sleep up to .Growth is going to be rapid. It will last several months. Females will have their first heat if not spayed. Males will have viable sperm. Though technically a female can become pregnant at this young age, breeding is recommended at the age of 1 year old or older. Males should be at least 9 months old. Some Pug puppies will stop growing by the age of 9 months. For others, just a few pounds will be gained from now until the 12 month mark. By the time, full height is usually reached. The adult Pug will fill out in width, most noticeable in the chest area. The dog is muscular and will not grow any larger. Extra weight gain at this point may be deemed unhealthy. Pugs that gain a significant amount of weight after the age of 18 months should be checked out by the veterinarian. The Pug dog is muscular and in his or her prime. Most vets will classify a dog as a senior by age 7 or 8. Even if this is not officially done, 9 years would be the limit that one could hold off on dubbing the Pug a senior. Pug Weight and Growth Chart This chart will give you a guideline for what to expect in how fast your Pug grows and how quickly he will gain weight. An 8 week old Pug puppy will weight between 2 and 4 pounds. Though the AKC breed standard gives us a final full size of pounds 5. It's a funny thing because the changes happen gradually and owners usually do not notice.And then, one day it reaches a certain point and the owner will say, "When did my dog get old!? Your dog may show a bit of difficulty when rising from a down position. He or she may walk slower up a staircase. A quality canine mattress is recommended for any age, however during the senior years an orthopedic canine bed is more important than ever. Expect an older Pug dog to take more naps and retreat more often due to a lower tolerance for noise levels. When your dog reaches the age of 8 or 9, it will be time to give a bit more attention to certain grooming techniques. Skin looses its elasticity and cleaning wrinkles will be more important than ever. An older Pug will be more susceptible to infections. Take extra time to clean the folds and keep them dry. Your Pug's veterinarian should be performing more thorough tests, especially for sugar levels. Eye exams are very important, as well. Just as with humans, an older Pug may be more susceptible to developing diabetes, arthritis , have problems with joints and their bones may be more brittle. The pounds that they have been carrying around and the body structure that they have short legs especially have been taking its toll. At this age, excess weight be a problem. It is recommended to make a gradual change in the diet, to ensure that meals have a higher count of nutrients specifically for aging pets. If you previously gave no-so-healthy snacks, make an effort to change over to a solid, healthy meal and snack plan. It will be time to make a change in regard to a vitamin and mineral supplement, switching to a senior formula. Additional supplements can be helpful depending on a Pug's specific needs. Most often, this breed does best with supplements to aid in joint health. Omega 3 can help to keep the skin and coat healthy and combat drying issues. The intensity of exercise should be scaled back a bit for seniors ; though daily duration of activity should remain as normal if the older Pug can handle it. It is still important go for walks so that a dog's heart stays healthy; movement is very necessary. However, once your Pug dog is a senior, you do not want to overdo activities as an older heart will not be able to handle what a younger heart was able to. It is during this time that you want to make the household as quite and peaceful as possible. Unless you absolutely must, do not move your furniture or make any changes that could cause stress or confusion. Creatures of habit, dogs know where things are and it can be disturbing if the environment is changed. The ability to hold elimination may weaken as bladder and bowel muscle loose some strength. At this time, you may want to start using doggie diapers. As odd as they may look, this will help your Pug and your home stay sanitary. If your senior does have accidents, never scold or punish. This is a normal process of aging. A loving owner, will of course, want to spend every moment that is left by showing compassion and care. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. As newborns they are deaf, bind, and largely immobile. They rely on their mom, or their breeder for food, warmth, and care. A Pug is Born! Unfortunately, the birthing process of Pugs is a difficult one. Flat-faced breeds, such as the Pug, are more likely to experience complications when giving birth. The Pug is also more likely to experience Dystocia, which is simply a term that means difficult or abnormal birth. Such situations put both the mother and her pups at risk. More often than not, the mother will require her pups to be delivered by a C-section. This is due to the fact that unborn Pugs have large and broad heads, whilst their mom has a very narrow pelvis. This awkward combination makes natural birth difficult. If the birth is successful, Pugs commonly have litters containing puppies, with 4 pups being the average. If your baby Pug is born naturally, their mother will next turn to chewing off the umbilical cord and cleaning them up. This is an important part of the bonding experience for mother dogs. The newborn Pugs will often nurse from their mother. When they are not nursing, they will spend the majority of their time sleeping. Newborn Pugs Pug pups begin their life fully reliant on their mother. They are born blind, deaf, and without teeth. A coat should be present, with the color being commonly either fawn or black. Fawn pups may experience their coat color lightening or darkening in shade as they mature. Their eyes and ears will be closed at birth and will remain this way for a while yet. Unable to support their own body weight, they will crawl on their stomach to get around. Baby Pugs are also not able to regulate their temperature, meaning that it is very important to stay warm. They will commonly clump together in piles, sharing body heat. Finally, the mother will also have to help her pups urinate and defecate as they are unable to do so by themselves. She does this by licking the anal and genital areas. One Week Old Baby Pug During the first week of life, baby Pug pups will either be nursing off their mother or sleeping. As they are still blind and deaf at this stage, they will not bother exploring or moving around more than necessary, spending most of their time lying close to their littermates and mother. Their weight should steadily increase every day. At the end of their first week of life, they should have doubled their birth weight, or at least come close. The owners of the pups will need to keep an eye on their breathing as brachycephalic breeds, such as the Pug, commonly have breathing issues. Two Week Old Baby Pug As we hit two weeks of age, we see a key development in the puppies growth; their eyes will open for the very first time! To begin with, their eye color will be blue, but will likely transition into a dark brown as they mature. Owners need to check over their eyes to ensure there are no issues, as this breed can be susceptible to ocular problems. At this stage, they may be a little more curious about their surroundings due to their newfound eyesight. However, they will still primarily be focused on sleeping and nursing. Their weight should continue to rise steadily over the coming weeks. By this time, the ears of the baby Pug pups will have opened. They will be able to hear for the first time and will begin reacting to more sounds. Their eyesight will also have developed significantly, with them being able to recognize their mother, littermates, and objects placed in their den. Along with their newfound perception of the world, they should now be able to support their own body weight and stand up. They may be able to walk, albeit with an unsteady gait. With all the interesting sights and sounds around them, they will likely be a lot more inquisitive of their surroundings. They may explore the den as much as their wobbly legs will carry them. The Pug puppies will also start teething, with their baby teeth coming through for the first time. This may start a passing interest in solid food. Gaining Independence On top of all this, they should now be able to urinate and defecate on their own, without any stimulation from their mother. We can also expect to see the start of the early socialization period. The puppies will begin developing behaviors and social skills for the first time, taking part in play with their littermates. Owners of the puppies should take advantage of this period to help them get used to human touch and presence. They will be establishing relationships with their mother, den mates, and people. Training can begin at this early stage. Despite the fact that their brains still have a lot of developing to do, a start can still be made on teaching them basic crate and potty training. They will also likely be much more mobile on their feet. Little adventures will be common and the puppies will play together often. Soft, easy to eat puppy food can be given. They will continue to rise in weight and keep learning social skills, with more complex behaviors being shown. While they seem a lot more independent at this stage, they will still require plenty of time with their mother and den mates before they are ready to be moved to a new home. Six Week Old Baby Pug At six weeks old, the Pug puppies are fast approaching the age where they reach full independence. By now, they should be fully weaned off their mother and placed onto solid food only. This is a big step. There is still much to learn. Up until now, the Pug puppies have been very curious and interested in completely new things. But they have always been safe under the watchful eye of their mom, too. Now, as they finally gain independence, the puppies learn to be cautious and careful; traits that keep them alive in the wild. Eight Week Old Baby Pug At eight weeks old, the Pug pups are developed enough to be able to leave their mother and littermates behind. They can be sold and moved into a new loving home. They should weigh around pounds. Training and Raising a Pug Resources Keep in mind that they still have a lot of developing to do; both physically and mentally! Remember, they are still within their fear period! Things learned here will make a big impact.

They almost always require artificial insemination and a C section birth. Available French bulldog puppies ready for sale AKC brindle and white, fawn and black male and female frenchies! Pups will come with up to date on vaccinations and dewormings, written health record, AKC registration, pedigree and puppy starter kit. Advertise your Frenchy Puppies for free! French Bulldog Puppies For Sale Maryland, Maryland Adorable healthy male and female puppies available for sale there are up to date on shot, akc registered 10 weeks old and there are ready to meet their new families contact via carinemills00 gmail. French Bulldogs for sale can command tens of thousands of dollars. He is cute as a button and has an amazing personality. Looking for cheap french puppies for sale in california? History: Despite what its name may imply, the French Bulldog was developed in England. Adoption will be the safest and easiest way to find a puppy. French Bulldog Puppies and Dogs for sale near you Page 2. We connect the most reputable French bulldog breeders with loving homes across USA. The smushy-faced Frenchie is beloved worldwide as small, non. They are potty and house trained and come with all papers. At Keystone Puppies, we have the ulti-mutt selection of affordable dogs for sale. French Bulldog Puppies for Sale. The French Bulldog is a small companion dog, usually about 12 inches tall and under 28 pounds, making them a great choice for someone in any size living space. They are a good family dog and do well with children. French Bulldogs have erect "bat ears" and a charming, playful disposition. Do text or call for more details. The breeder who can rear five out of every ten puppies born may be considered fortunate. The breeder who can rear five. And owning a Frenchie is pure fun! French Bulldog Puppies and Dogs for sale near you. How much does French Bulldog cost. Im ready to fill your home with happiness please contact my dad at … more. French Bulldog Puppies Near Me. After reviewing thousands of ads from all over the US, we have discovered 13 breeds that can potentially be bought on a tight budget. French bulldog puppies for sale under .Pearl - Imported - French Bulldog Puppy. Gorgeous coloring in this litter. French Bulldogs for Sale in Kansas City. You will find French Bulldog dogs for adoption and puppies for sale under the listings here. Cheap frenchies bulldogs for sale. View our Available Puppies. Their expensive price is because of a surge in their popularity over the past two decades. A Frenchie's price depends on their age, genes i. It is frequently found in what appears to be a healthy lot of French Bulldog puppies. There are many dogs that need good homes and loving families. The French Bulldog, also known as a Frenchie, is one of the most well-known breeds, and one breed above all that makes people smile. Because of the difficulty in achieving rare colors, unusual Frenchies can be more vulnerable to genetic diseases. These puppies are gentle, loving and affectionate. They need someone who is calm, but firm in training them, as they will otherwise believe that they are in charge. Looking for a cheap French Bulldog? These registered male and female French bulldog puppies are looking for a lovely home where they can be showed all the love and affection in the world they need. Anna French Bulldog Puppies .Registration: Other Registration. This will allow you to have more freedom, budget, and fun shopping for other new puppy necessities like bowls, leashes, beds and toys. Frenchies are very adaptable, so they make great pets for first-time dog owners. French Bulldog puppies for sale. We start the "housebreaking" process for an easy transition into your home. Puppy Price By State. French Bulldog Puppies For Sale. They have all received their vaccines. We are a team of family oriented people who are driven to help people find a loving companion for the family. They adjust well to other animals, too, and are great with kids. If you're looking for a cheap French Bulldog puppy in Wisconsin, you have several options. Greenfield Puppies was founded in and has been helping people find their ideal puppy ever since. Find Pug Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful Pug information. The breeding of French Bulldog requires unlimited patience, as success is very difficult to attain. A pound Frenchies needs about to calories a day while a pound dog. Take a look through the available. Charming and Beautiful, outstanding French Bulldog puppies. French Bulldog Puppy Adoptions. Looking for cheaper puppies for sale? You've come to the right place! This puppy is super happy and is just looking for a family to call his own. Males Super smart noneshedding. French Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Florida. French bulldog puppies for sale near me. Active, cute and super friendly. Hi, my name is Gus and Im looking for a forever home, I love to play with other dogs and kids, Im up to date on vaccines and dewormed 3x. It is a scam! French Bulldogs are expensive to breed and birth. Hes looking for the perfect family! This little dog is known for being one of the most affordable breeds available in Pennsylvania, USA. Premier Pups is the best place to find French Bulldog puppies in. My current folks say that I am super lovable, smart, calm, playful, and that I love to learn new things every day. Cheap Puppy For Sale. Take a look at our available breeds below and contact us with any additional questions! Looking for cheap french puppies for sale? Why are French Bulldogs more expensive than any other dog breed? Most Frenchies can't have live babies the normal way. These dogs are descendents of English Bulldogs, who were, unfortunately, used for violent "sports" such. Vet approved, socially secure, healthy, happy pups are our priority, and the only type of pups we have here! By standard we mean brindle, pied, fawn, cream. If you have to stretch the budget to buy a more expensive puppy, then everything after will feel like a big daunting decision. Take a look at the a-dog-able puppies for sale. Pet Breeder French bulldog puppies for sale near me. He is blue and carries fluffy and coco. This is often from close line breeding. Are you in search of affordable French Bulldog puppies? Look no further! Our main goal is to help you find the ideal and perfect French bulldog puppy for sale in your area. You can buy a healthy cheap teacup French bulldog puppy for sale today by browsing through our French Bulldogs Available for sale page History of cheap French Bulldog puppies Despite what its name may imply, the french bulldog was developed in England. When activities like this were outlawed in England in , the English Bulldog was bred down in size, resulting in the Toy Bulldog. During the Industrial Revolution, these Toy Bulldogs were brought to France by English lace workers, and the French immediately took a liking to the little dog. So, they began to import more and more of the breed. Over time, the Toy Bulldog became a breed of its own, and was eventually named the French Bulldog. Frenchies are very adaptable, so they make great pets for first-time dog owners. They adjust well to other animals, too, and are great with kids. This handsome Mini French Bulldog puppy is waiting for his new loving family! He is raised with children that play with him daily. This cutie is social, friendly and loads of fun. This fella will instantly make everyone fall in love with him! He is ACA registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and comes with a 1 year genetic health guarantee. Cheappuppiesforsale is your go-to website for finding inexpensive, locally available, and registered French bulldogs. Our primary objective is to assist you in locating the appropriate French Bulldog puppy for sale in your neighborhood History of French Bulldog French Bulldogs are considered one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States and around the world. They are known for their affectionate and playful personalities and are often kept as companion animals. The breed is a descendant of the English Bulldog, which was brought to France by English lacemakers. The French Bulldog was then developed by crossing the English Bulldog with local small breeds, such as the Terrier, to create a smaller, more delicate version of the English Bulldog. During the 19th century, French Bulldogs were used for bull-baiting and dog fighting. They quickly gained popularity among the upper class in France, especially in Paris, where they were considered a symbol of luxury and elegance. In the late 19th century, French Bulldogs were brought to the United States by American tourists who fell in love with the breed while visiting France. Temperament of Frenchies The temperament of a French Bulldog is generally described as affectionate, playful, and sociable. They are known to be good with children and other pets and make great companion animals. They are also known for their intelligence and trainability, which makes them easy to train and manage. French Bulldogs are very loyal to their owners, and they have a strong desire to be close to their family. They have a playful nature, and they love to play and interact with their owners. French Bulldogs are known for their expressive personalities, and they are known to be very vocal. They are known to make a variety of noises, including grunts, snores, and snorts, which can be quite endearing. They are also known for their sense of humor and their ability to make their owners laugh. One of the most striking characteristics of French Bulldogs is their easy going nature. They are known to be adaptable and easy to live with, which makes them great family pets. They are also known to be relatively low maintenance, as they do not require a lot of exercise or grooming. Let us introduce you to Riggs a handsome French Bulldog pup ready to venture off to his forever home. He is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed, plus the breeder provides a 1 year genetic health guarantee provided by the breeder. His momma is Amber. Riggs enjoy spending time with the children he is currently being raised with. Sex: Male.

Frenchie Doodles are playful and friendly dogs that love to play with their owner. The Frenchie Doodle breed is created by www. This breed lives around to 11 to 13 years. Frenchie Doodles are known to shed very little, if at all, making them great for those with allergies towards most dogs. Since these dogs are part French Bulldog, they might inherit a shorter than average snout. This can lead to aggressive eating, and can damage their head. A slow-feed bowl is recommended in this case. Head large and square. Eyes wide apart, set low down in the skull, as far from the ears as possible, round in form, of moderate size, neither sunken nor bulging. All colored eyes are acceptable. No haw and no white of the eye showing when looking forward. The leather of the ear fine and soft. The top of the skull flat between the ears; the forehead is not flat but slightly rounded. The muzzle broad, deep and well laid back; the muscles of the cheeks dense and defined. The stop well defined with heavy wrinkles forming a small rope over the extremely short nose; nostrils broad. Nose black or light color is accepted. Flews thick and broad, hanging over the lower jaw at the sides, meeting the underlip in front and covering the teeth and tongue, not visible when mouth is closed. Underjaw is deep, square, broad, undershot and well turned up. Wry mouths and any bites other than undershot are serious faults. The more Poodle in the dog, the less it sheds, and the higher chance it will be hypoallergenic. The neck is thick and well arched with loose skin at the throat. The back is a roach back with a slight fall close behind the shoulders, gradually rising to the loin which is higher than the shoulder, and rounding at the croup. The back is strong and short, broader at the shoulders, and tapering to the rear. The body is short and well rounded. The chest is broad, deep, and full; well ribbed with the belly tucked up. The tail is either straight or screwed but not curly , short, hung low, thick root and fine tip; carried low in repose. Dewclaws may be removed. Feet are moderate in size, compact and tight set. Toes compact, well split up, with high knuckles and short stubby nails. Hindquarters: Hind legs are strong and muscular. Hocks well let down. Toes compact, well split up, with high knuckles and short stubby nails; hind feet slightly longer than forefeet. Skin is soft and loose, especially at the head and shoulders, forming wrinkles. Because this breeds is so loyal, it can create separation anxiety when owners are gone for too long. These dogs do best when there is someone usually nearby. Home: Contact. Due to their rarity, puppy mills and irresponsible breeders find the opportunity to make more profit by offering sickly Boodle puppies. Always search for a reputable breeder that follows strict breeding guidelines for a healthy pup. This list includes some of the most reliable places to find French Bulldog Poodle mix puppies for sale: Greenfield Puppies — Greenfield Puppies is a website that sells puppies from reputable breeders all around the country. Puppy shipping options are also available on the website. Lancaster Puppies — Lancaster Puppies is a puppy marketplace that sells mixed-breed puppies from reputable breeders. There are a variety of crossbreed puppies available, including the French Boodle mix. This website first helps you in locating the mixed-breed or purebred puppy you want, then links you with the breeder for an interview. They also provide convenient delivery options. For more useful advice on avoiding puppy mills and scams when buying a pooch online, read our ultimate puppy buying guide. You can also check our list of French Bulldog breeders for other options. Boodles could also be found in rescues and dog shelters near your area. Despite their adorable and lovable unique features, irresponsible dog owners still abandon and neglect their Boodle dogs. To help you find your future furry companion, here is a list of shelters that may have the French Boodle suitable for you: Poodles and Pals — Poodles and Pals is a rescue center in Southern California that fosters and adopts Poodles and Poodle mixes. Each dog is also microchipped, and a collar is included with each adoption. The rescued dogs are housed and cared for by volunteer foster homes located throughout the Midwest. Before being placed for adoption, their puppies are also placed in foster care. This rescue, on the other hand, is limited to a 5-hour radius around Dallas. You could also read our list of the top 10 best French Bulldog rescues and top 10 best Poodle rescues for adoption to try your luck in finding the perfect French Bulldog Poodle mix for you. Another alternative is to join social media groups with French Bulldog and Poodle mix enthusiasts. There will undoubtedly be pet lovers willing to help you find your furry companion. Because crossbreeding is still controversial, some individuals are hesitant to get a French Bulldog Poodle cross. While some people think of mixed breeds as a genetic anomaly, others see benefits in terms of looks, health, and temperament. Listed below are some of the advantages of owning a French Bulldog Poodle mix: Highly sociable: Poodles and French Bulldogs make excellent family pets. The mixed offspring inherits the strong characteristics of both parents, making it a wonderful family friend. The loving and lively personality of the French Boodle is ideal for households with children or other household pets. While the appearance of a French Boodle mix puppy can vary, you can always expect a one-of-a-kind dog with traits from both parents. If you enjoy dogs that are rare and unusual, this dog should be at the top of your list. Low maintenance: Any pet owner can sustain the lifestyle of a French Bulldog Poodle mix. This cross could also be a low shedder that just requires occasional brushing and bathing. Future owners of French Boodles should also consider the following drawbacks of having this unusual crossbreed: Unpredictability in size: Size is also a concern for dog owners. Despite the fact that the French Bulldog Poodle mix is expected to grow between tiny and medium in size, the size differences between the parent breeds make it difficult for owners to anticipate which gene the pup will inherit. Prone to several health issues: Diseases common to their parent breeds can be passed down to French Boodles. Its parent breeds are also prone to obesity and fragile joints that could be inherited by the hybrid offspring. Not a good guard dog: Though the French Bulldog Poodle mix is a highly intelligent breed, it is not an ideal breed for a watchdog due to its outgoing personality. Instead of guarding your home against strangers, they are more likely to make them new friends. When considering if a French Poodle mix is an appropriate dog for you, you should not overlook the importance of knowing the benefits and risks of crossbreeding. Understanding and evaluating how this breed will fit into your daily schedule could also help you decide if this pooch is right for you. Both the French Bulldog and the Poodle are genetically predisposed to certain illnesses such as the following: Common health issues of a French Bulldog: 1. Otitis externa The smaller ear canals of French Bulldogs are perfect breeding grounds for bacterial growth. Common health issues of a Poodle 1. Bloat Too much gas can cause the stomach to twist. Hip dysplasia The hip is composed of a socket and a ball. If these two fail to grow uniformly, it causes hip dysplasia and your pooch will have mobility and pain issues. French Bulldog Mixed with a Poodle health problems 1. Lifetime medicine is the only way to control this problem. Brachycephalic syndrome If the Poodle mixed with French Bulldog inherits the facial features of one of his parents, this could lead to breathing problems, more so during hot weather conditions. Patellar luxation An orthopedic problem wherein the kneecap gets dislocated from its normal position. Urolithiasis Urolithiasis is also referred to as kidney stones. Urolithiasis is commonly caused by a urinary tract infection in dogs. A Frenchie mixed with Poodle can reach his maximum lifespan only if you give him a healthy lifestyle. Want more information? French Boodle breeder To get a physically and emotionally sound French Poodle Mix dog, you have to find a responsible breeder. Not sure what the qualities of a responsible breeder are? Even if the meeting is done virtually, you can still manage to observe if the kennel is kept clean and if the puppies are active and can move around freely. Second, do not hesitate to ask questions regarding the medical history of the parents and whether the parents have been DNA tested prior to breeding. Are the puppies registered in any of the designer dog breed registration? French Boodle puppies After you have located a responsible breeder that has French Boodles for sale, your next task is to select a healthy French Poodle Mix from a litter of French Bulldog Poodle Mix puppies. Healthwise, what you want to look for is a French Bull Doodle that has a shiny coat, clear eyes, and does not have any signs of skin inflammations. The French Poodle Mix pup should be moving well and does not show any signs of limping. Temperament-wise, start looking for a confident puppy that interacts with his littermates. In return, your love will be reciprocated more than you expect. However, depending on where you live as well as the litter size, the price of a Frenchie Mix with Poodle may be slightly higher. Places to find French Bulldog Poodle Mix puppies for sale Remember when we said that you should only deal with responsible breeders of French Boodle dog? Well, in this section, we found sites where you can buy your French Poodle Mix puppy. They can arrange comfortable air travel for your chosen Poodle Frenchie puppy, in case you cannot drive or fly over to their place. Keystone Puppies keystonepuppies. They also work with major airlines for worldwide shipping. Finding a healthy French Bulldog Poodle Mix for sale If you are one of those who would rather get an adult dog because they are less expensive to buy, we came up with two places to find healthy Frenchie Poodle Mix for sale. You can contact them and ask if they have an adult French Bulldog Cross Poodle for sale. They can ship worldwide, so regardless of where you are, the dog can be delivered to you with the help of their in-house flight nannies. The purpose of this table is to help you decide if you can live with a French Bulldog and Poodle cross for many years. If you are having doubts about your compatibility with a French Bulldog Mix Poodle, it is best to choose another mixed dog breed. Should a French Bulldog Mix take after their Frenchie parent, they will be a small companion breed that bonds closely with their families. They tend to have an energetic, playful personality and love nothing more than being with their favorite humans. French Bulldogs tend to be friendly, playful, and affectionate dogs that get along with just about everyone. They tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets. They will even warm up quickly to strangers as long as they have been properly socialized. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from a French Bulldog Mix. You can also meet the mother in person to see what her temperament is like and the behavior she is modeling for the puppies. The breeder should have started some training and socialization, but it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. Frenchies are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes. However, as a brachycephalic breed, they are extra sensitive to heat and also sensitive to the cold. They also do not like being left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can expect a Frenchie Mix to also be a highly adaptable dog. The other parent will introduce their own traits and some potential quirks, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. They could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, or they could inherit some or all of them. They can also be prone to allergies, have sensitive skin, and also a sensitive stomach. Good breeding practices will make a huge difference. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. Although French Bulldogs can sometimes be stubborn, they are eager to please and tend to be easy to train. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward, they can be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. If the other parent breed is also easy to train, then you can expect a French Bulldog Mix to be highly trainable as well. Regardless of owner experience, there are many benefits of puppy training classes. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a mix of both. You will also need to clean their facial wrinkles. Weekly ear checks with cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, a Frenchie Mix is more prone to developing dental diseases later in life. This makes good, consistent dental care for dogs even more important for them. Daily brushing with a dog-friendly toothpaste or using an enzyme toothpaste paired with cleanings at the vet when needed is ideal. Frenchies are known couch potato dogs that are happy to lay back, relax, and cuddle with you. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough for this affectionate little dog. Even though they like to relax, they also like to play and will be energetic when they do. They can also be athletic and compete in dog sports. As a brachycephalic breed, you do need to be careful of overexertion and overheating. But, there are plenty of ways to safely exercise flat-faced dogs to make sure your French Bulldog Mix gets enough exercise. If the other parent breed is also a low-energy breed, then you can expect something similar from a Frenchie Mix. If the other parent breed requires more activity, then you will need to be prepared for the potential of a higher energy dog. Fully-grown Frenchies usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so make sure you ask the breeder about them. This can give you some idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown French Bulldog Mix. French Bulldogs generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span in a French Bulldog Mix. Featured French Bulldog Mix Article. Height: inches at the shoulder Weight: 45 - 70 lb. They will be a great companion and a great sidekick to have along your side. This is the type of dog that you are going to want to come home to at night as they are very kind, loyal, and gentle. Sometimes they are almost too smart for their own good. No matter what the mix is, they are going to be bouncing with energy and will not be good for apartment dwellers. It is also extremely important to socialize your dog. While they naturally have a very nice temperament, socialization is extremely important to help them learn how to interact with other dogs. They also might have a rather high prey drive due to their wanting to chase small, fast things. It will be a good idea to keep an eye on the cat or any other small creatures until you better understand their personality. Poodle French Bulldog Mix - French Boodle Health All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems as all breeds are susceptible to some things more than others. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The French Bulldog Poodle Mix might be prone to Eye problems, patellar luxation, Hereditary deafness, Eye problems, Urolithiasis, Reverse sneezing, brachycephalic syndrome, head shakes, hip dysplasia, skin problems, tail problems, Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. This will be a moderately shedding dog. Be prepared to brush them a few times a week. Either way, get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the exercise requirements? This is a moderate energy dog that will need that from an owner. Plan on exercising them daily to keep their energy level down. A tired dog is a good dog. What are the training requirements? Though intelligent, it might be stubborn and demanding. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in.

Helms family .We are conveniently located about an hour outside of Charlotte, in Norwood, North Carolina, in the small community of Cottonville also just 15 minutes from Albemarle, NC. Our property is sixty acres of fields, grass, woods and a creek for our Goldens to explore and enjoy. We are situated off the main road, so our girls and boys can play to their hearts content every day. So take a look around, and visit with us. We believe in taking as natural approach to their health as possible, so our pups are raised with limited intervention, aside from their vaccinations and regular dewormings, These babies receive lots of socialization from our small children and other visitors we have : We also supplement with NuVet Plus, and send home samples with each pup. We are AKC inspected, and welcome your visit by appointment, can't wait to meet you! See our Reserving a Puppy page for answers to frequently asked questions and to download a copy of our reservation form and health guarantee.We are continually updating these as we receive them. This allows us to carefully select our moms and dads, to ensure you the healthiest pup! We screen for hips, elbows, eyes, and heart, as per the Golden Retriever standard. To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We as a family find great joy in helping make memories for you as a dog lover. As we are family, our dogs are family. We are devoted to our puppies and socialize with them daily. We ensure each puppy enjoys their newly found life by playing and running in the vast open land surrounding our home. We also daily reward our puppies with treats for their good behavior! We do have a few families in our local area that help to raise some of our breeds as well. We do this to make sure and give the parents and puppies the love and family environment they deserve. When you visit our home and walk up to meet all of the puppies, you will see how friendly and playful all of them are for that very reason. WHy Choose Us? We Are Family We are blessed to call our dogs family. Everyone in our home pitches in to give love and care to our pets. It truly is a family affair with our children coming along and contributing as well. Visits Welcome Trust is a major factor when choosing a breeder. That is why we invite you to our home and welcome any questions you may have before or after your purchase. We take great pride in the temperament and health of our dogs and puppies. Personal Touch We can't wait to hear from you! Travel Experience As much as we love meeting our puppy's new family we are happy to say we have had much success with our puppies traveling to their new home via air and ground pet nanny transport. They will learn everything from potty training to long-distance commands and obedience. All open houses are pm — pm weather permitting At Golden Creek Kennels, located in Durham, North Carolina, our goldens have been the passion of our lives for over 20 years. With so many families, so many memories and so many beautiful golden puppies. Golden Creek Kennels began soon after we built our first home. I had asked my husband, Crawford for a golden puppy for Christmas, that was our girl Kelsey back in .Twenty years later we are as happy as our goldens are. Our beautiful goldens will always greet your as a true golden should, with a wagging tail, and that marvelous golden smile that they are so well known for. All of our puppy owners are families that come back time and time again, showing up for Open Houses to let their golden run with the others, and of course to show off their golden. We also do boarding for our customers who would not leave them with just anyone. Many of our families near and far are repeat customers seeking their 2nd and 3rd golden pup. We pride ourselves as breeders, that provide families with goldens that are top quality, healthy, intelligent, and temperament tested. Family members for years to come. All our goldens come from top ranking championship lines, and every puppy goes home with a 26 mo guarantee against such genetic disorders as hip dysplasia, heart murmurs or cataracts. Golden Creek Kennels is here for our families before and after the pup goes home. But the wonderful character is the same for both the American and English goldens. Friendly, reliable, and trustworthy. At Golden Creek Kennels, we offer the best of both worlds. The American and the English Golden Retriever. The American Golden.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. To keep up with all these changes, your puppy will require a healthy diet. It can mean the difference between a happy, active, and healthy puppy and a sickly, moody puppy with a slow growth rate. When choosing food for your puppy, ensure that it contains the main ingredients: fats, proteins, and digestible carbohydrates. It should also contain essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. Puppies need protein for building up their body tissue and for healthy skin and coat. You should always look for high-quality proteins from an animal source e. Fish oil, beef fat, chicken fat and eggs are all great sources of fats. These nutrients can be found in sweet potatoes, whole oats, white rice, and potatoes, among other starchy foods. However, be sure to limit the intake of calcium. Too much of it has been found to cause hip dysplasia in large-breed dogs. A German Shepherd puppy should consume between calories per 10 pounds of body weight according to the Nutrient Requirements of Cats and Dogs of the National Academy of Science Committee. This, however, also depends on their overall health conditions and activity level. You may need to feed them more or less to support their optimal growth. Although it may seem obvious, doing this can cause your dog a lot of trouble and is a simple error to make. A German shepherd is a medium- to large-breed dog, which puts him at a higher risk for several health issues, the most well-known of which are issues with the bones and the hips. Joint illnesses are more likely to develop in them as a result of genetics, and too much rapid development is another factor that might exacerbate these issues. Because of this, even though German shepherds require the same essential nutrients as other dog breeds, including protein, fat, carbohydrates, and other vitamins and minerals, you should exercise caution when feeding your dog nutrient-rich dog foods because they can encourage dangerously rapid growth. According to the German shepherd feeding chart, it is accepted that adult dogs need up to calories per day. Depending on how big and active the dog is, anything between and is considered suitable. The amount of calories a dog consumes is often determined by their age, present health, and the amount of exercise they receive. However, even in their later years, energetic dogs will need up to calories each day. How about a German Shepherd puppy, though? What is a German Shepherd feeding chart for a puppy? Actually, puppies consume twice as many calories per pound of body weight. This indicates that a German Shepherd puppy that is 8 weeks old may consume twice as much food as an adult. Puppies need to consume twice as much food as adults do to sustain their growth and development. A young German Shepherd puppy needs at least 80—90 calories per pound of body weight to grow and thrive. Regularly weigh your puppy, assess their general health, and modify their calorie intake to assist their growth. Even more active than working adult dogs are young shepherds. Keep in mind that calories differ significantly across manufacturers and brands. Always read the nutritional information and feeding instructions on the food box before feeding it to your pet. The German Shepherd feeding chart is simple in the first few weeks; up until the puppies lose all of their puppy teeth , their mother serves as their primary feeding source. Puppies who are one month old do not yet have teeth that are strong enough to eat kibble, so it is important to soften their diet as much as possible. Two-Month-Old German Shepherd Puppies start exploring their environment as soon as they reach the one-month mark. Additionally, a German Shepherd puppy should be at least eight weeks old if you plan to adopt one. Purchase the same puppy food the breeder recommended, at least for the first several weeks as they adjust to their new surroundings. As the pups approach their first birthday, their diet will require fewer calories, so you may cut down on the number of meals by two or three, if you believe it will be better for your pet. The majority of dog owners believe that giving their puppies fewer meals throughout the day is better for them since they get the same amount of calories and are less likely to feel hungry at specific times of the day. Even though during this period your dog should still be eating puppy food, you might want to consider obtaining adult dog food. Some owners use treats and training rewards to gradually introduce adult food to their pets, which is just enough to acclimate them to its unique flavor and texture. On the other hand, some dog owners choose to gradually phase out puppy food by combining kibble for adult dogs with it in varying quantities. You must obviously speak with your veterinarian before making any changes to the diet your German Shepherd consumes. Only your veterinarian can tell you when your dog has reached adulthood and when switching to adult food is safe. They must thus be provided with a healthy diet, even if they are raised as household pets. These puppies really like being active, and they enjoy playing in dog parks and other open spaces as well as training. In addition to the other nutrients, the quantities of calcium, protein, and phosphorus in adult dog food will be different from those in puppy food, according to the German Shepherd feeding chart. Bottom Line We must be certain of how much and when to feed our pets as responsible pet owners. German Shepherds require special consideration when designing their diets since they are active canines with voracious appetites. They adapt well to a variety of diets, including dry, wet, raw, and homemade. Giving them too many presents or too many free meals might seriously harm their health. We looked at the German shepherd feeding chart above. For your pup to develop properly, you must be aware of which foods are good for them and which ones they should avoid. As a travel enthusiast and animal lover, she hopes to inspire others to discover and cherish the beauty and importance of the natural world. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. Helpful tips for caring for your puppy About the Labrador Retriever The Labrador Retriever originated in Canada in the 19th century and is now a world-wide beloved dog breed. These dogs are medium-sized dogs, females have a height of .Their average weight as an adult is pounds for females and pounds for males. They have a life expectancy of years. When it comes to their temperament, Labrador retrievers are very loyal, friendly and affectionate companion dogs. They are known for being very social towards strangers and other dogs. Labrador retrievers also come in three colours : black, brown or yellow. These dogs are very active as they need plenty of walks, play time and affection. They are great with children and make a great companion dog. If you're thinking of adopting a Labrador retriever puppy, keep reading as we go through how to care for them! Learn more about the Labrador Retriever in our breed sheet. When to collect your Labrador puppy You can adopt and collect your Labrador puppy once they are 8 weeks old. This way, you make sure that they have had enough time to socialize with their family, mother and siblings. It also makes sure that they have developed good bite moderation before being adopted to their new family. Other advantages are that they have had time to drink their mother's milk and properly wean off. They will also feel more independent and will transition better to their new home after being 8 weeks old. We also encourage you to check out your local animal shelter before buying from a breeder. Where your puppy should sleep the first night When it comes to sleeping at night, your puppy will have some difficulties. This may be due to the new environment and new people. They may feel unprotected and disoriented. For this reason, it's normal to hear them cry as they may be calling their mother for guidance and company. Now that you've adopted this puppy, this is your job as their human companion. When they call out, try to be there for them as they are scared and lonely. Be understanding as your puppy learns to adapt to their new home. As a puppy is very dependent and on their first night they will feel scared and disoriented, it's best they sleep near you on their first night. Remember that puppies tend to sleep with their siblings and their mother. Being alone in a new place for the first time will be difficult for them. The best option for your new puppy is to sleep in their own bed inside your room, near you. So that if they feel scared or lost and cry, you can let them know that you are there with them. Once they feel more oriented and safe in their new home, you can move their bed to another location where they can sleep. Learn more in our article where we elaborate on how to prepare for your puppy's first night in their new home. What to feed your Labrador retriever puppy When feeding your Labrador retriever puppy, you will need to provide them with a rich and balanced diet. Keep in mind that puppies begin weaning when they are around weeks old. This means that they will slowly transition from their mother's milk to a solid food canine diet. A natural canine diet mainly consists in essential fatty acids and meat-based protein. The protein should have two or three types of protein from meat. For example: whole chicken, lamb, beef and fish. For fat sources, you can opt for chicken fat. Good fat sources can solute some of the most important vitamins a dog needs. When it comes to carbs, it should be kept in a low amount as dogs thrive on meat. If you are cooking for your dog, then we recommend to include low amounts of whole carbs, such as sweet potatoes. Lastly, you can offer some fruits and vegetables that provide good vitamins and minerals to help your dog's over-all health. Training your Labrador retriever puppy Labrador Retrievers are very active and intelligent dogs. Other than daily exercise, they will need basic dog training. Yes, even as a puppy! You can begin training your dog with paper training. Learn more about that in our article about paper training for puppies. You can then begin to teach them basic commands, such as to sit, stay, or even to play fetch. Remember to always train them for short amounts of time each day, not exceeding 15min, and always through positive reinforcement. This way, training will be enjoyable for them and will help you create a greater bond with them. To learn more, read our article about when to start training your puppy. Exercising your Labrador retriever puppy Your Labrador retriever puppy will needs plenty of exercise. Due to their small size as a puppy, this will mostly be at home. They will begin by playing with their siblings and walking or running around the house. Then, after their first round of vaccinations, usually around the age of 7 weeks old, puppies will begin to go outside. This is a very important part of their puppyhood as they will learn to go out on walks with their caregivers and will begin their socialization period. During this period, they will meet and interact with new people and other dogs. They will also explore new places. It's very important that during this period they have good interactions and don't get traumatized. When a puppy is well socialized from a young age, they will have a balanced temperament as adult dogs. Learn more in our article about socializing puppies. Hygiene care Next, we're going to talk about maintaining our puppy's hygiene. As Labrador puppies haven't grown their full coat, they won't need to be brushed regularly just yet. A bath is only necessary when they get very dirty on their outdoor walks. Dental hygiene is also important when it comes to caring for a puppy. You can opt for a dog tooth paste or a dental canine treat. Talk to your veterinarian to see which would be best for you puppy, and learn more in our article about dental hygiene for dogs. Other than that, we must make sure that their everyday environment is also clean and that we refresh their water bowl everyday. This way, our puppy will have great personal hygiene and we can help them prevent certain health issues from a young age. Health care Lastly, we're going to talk about your Labrador retriever's health. The Labrador Retriever is a relatively healthy and long-living dog, especially if they stay in shape. However, the lack of genetic diversity resulting from breeding programs makes them prone to certain hereditary diseases and conditions , which are usually manifested as the dog grows old. For instance, Labradors tend to suffer from hip dysplasia. When your Lab is a puppy, you must ensure they get the necessary vaccines, and you must follow their vaccination schedule during the rest of their lives. This will prevent them from suffering very serious diseases that tend to affect dogs. If you want your dog to stay as healthy as possible, go to the vet for check-ups every 6 months. You can prevent the development of common diseases by watching your Lab for symptoms and caring for them as best as you can. Labrador Retrievers are prone to obesity - they love treats, and if they don't get enough exercise they will soon become overweight, with the related muscular and joint problems. Helpful tips for caring for your puppy We hope that this article has given you great insight when it comes to caring for a Labrador Retriever puppy. Here are some other helpful articles for caregivers that are adopting puppies:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Well-bred Labradors are relatively low maintenance, fit and healthy dogs. But your Labradors continuing health and well-being does depend entirely on you. A nutritious diet, regular exercise, grooming, preventive measures and regular visits to the vet are the real key to maintaining a high level of wellness and good health. All these actions are your responsibility and solely under your control. Daily routines will be diet control, exercise and physical inspections. Weekly routines will be grooming, ears, eyes, teeth and nail care. Quarterly routines could be shared between visits to the vet, a canine dentist and bathing. And the annual routine will be vaccinations. Just remember that prevention is always better than cure, so doing your best to prevent any illness and catching problems at the earliest possible stage is the goal to aim for. The following are all areas where you only need a little knowledge to effectively take care of your Labrador well. And if you cannot dedicate this time and effort, then in the nicest possible way, you might be better suited to a pet with less demanding care requirements such as goldfish. Making Safe Your Home and Garden Labradors are a lively and inquisitive breed, especially during their first three years so you need to keep dangerous household items out of their reach. Conceal electrical wiring…we all know of their infamous love for chewing. Sharp teeth and electricity do not mix! A Labrador can easily choke on wrappings or trash that may be swallowed along with edible scraps. Labs are smart and opening cupboards and drawers soon becomes easy for them. Be mindful of the toxicity of certain plants — Over plants have been identified as toxic to dogs , so be sure to research any plant before bringing it into your home. Fence of any ponds or pools in your yard. These are just a few points to consider around your home and garden, there are many more. Just try to put yourself in your Labradors shoes and take a good look at his environment as he would see it. Try to see how he could get into trouble and take measures to prevent it. Click here for a more detailed guide on puppy-proofing your home and garden. Brushing also helps to shake loose dirt out of and spread the natural oils throughout their coat for that desirable, healthy glossy look we know and love. Related article: The Best vacuums for removing pet hair from your home. Frequent baths will strip their oils, leaving them prone to wet and cold in winter, causing dry skin and making their coat look dull and not shiny. Keeping Nails Trim Most Labradors will need a nail trim every 2 to 3 months, although some may never need it. Regularly walking your dog on hard ground, especially sidewalks and roads, will have a natural filing effect and keep your dogs claws in order. This can make them sore and bleed. Ear Care What with a Labradors slightly drooping ears and their love of water, the inside of their ears can sometimes retain too much moisture, causing bacteria to build up and infections to form. I shall be writing an article on this very soon. Just some of the problems a Labrador may have with its teeth are gum disease, loose teeth, cracked or broken teeth, root abscesses and a build up of tartar. These can be very uncomfortable for your dog and can lead to further problems if neglected. Therefore, you need to inspect their teeth regularly, take measures to clean their teeth and even visit a professional canine dentist every 6 months or annually for a thorough check up and any necessary treatments. Treat their teeth like you would your own. Dealing with Parasites Controlling fleas, ticks and other parasites is essential for keeping your Labrador healthy. Immediate problems include extreme irritation and skin sores, but extreme infestations can lead to more dangerous problems including Lyme disease and tape worms. If you stick to a regular grooming schedule as you should! Simply brush your hand against the lie of your Labradors fur and watch for any small moving dots and check for any clearly visible ticks. There are many safe and effective over-the-counter flea control products , many of which contain formulations to prevent ticks at the same time. Finally, depending on where you live in the world, you may need to put your Labrador on medication for heartworm. Where mosquitoes are a problem, they can pass on heartworm and this can be fatal. Even the medicine for heartworm makes your dog very ill so prevention is definitely better than cure! Diseases such as distemper, rabies, hepatitis and parvoviros to name just a few. Your puppy will have had his first shots at five or six weeks before you got to take him home, and he will need a few further shots over a period of up to 18 weeks. A rabies shot usually follows at 6 months of age or so. After this, your adult Labrador will need just a single booster each year to stay protected. For many facts on vaccinations and the schedule you should follow when vaccinating your puppy, please click here. Dogs need a balance of vitamins, minerals, fats and proteins different to that of a human and feeding them on human leftovers can lead to malnutrition, as can a diet based on cheap filler packed dog food. You should perform a little research to find and use a recognized healthy brand of dog food that will cater to your Labradors needs. To help with this, please see our articles that list 4 of the best foods for Labrador puppies opens in new window or the best dog foods for adult Labradors opens in new window …yours really will thrive on these handpicked, quality foods! Additionally, the best thing you can do is set up a feeding schedule for your dog, twice per day being the recommended, and be mindful of any extra treats. Your Lab should always be well fed but not over-fed. I shall discuss this more in a later article. An Important Note On Drastic Changes In Eating And Drinking Habits If your dog is off their food, drinks way too much or way too little for a period of time more than 36 hours, you should call your vet as this is almost surely a sign of an underlying problem. They are voracious eaters and will eat just because they can, not because they need it. Excess weight can lead to all sorts of issues including arthritis and heart problems. To prevent this, control their diet and give them plenty of exercise for them to burn off those calories. They really do need very little exercise of just a few short minutes a couple of times per day. Too much exercise for a puppy can cause skeletal formation issues and plays a large part in joint problems. Take it easy until your puppy is at least a year old. Bedding and Shelter A Labrador should always have a soft surface to lay upon. To prevent this you should get your Lab a large sized dog bed or line a crate to offer a soft and comfortable place to rest. If your Lab spends any amount of time outside, you must provide shelter to offer an escape from the sun in summer, and preferably the shelter should have a raised floor so the wet and cold is kept away in winter. If your Lab puppy gets used to sleeping in a bed of yours or your children, it will be a hard habit to break and will more than likely end in separation anxiety and night-time whining. You want your Labrador to be comfortable alone for periods of time and should start forming this habit ASAP. Training The importance of training your Labrador cannot be overstated. A dog is a dog and not a human. You need to teach your dog how to behave and what your instructions are asking them to do. Before a puppy can become a trusted, well-behaved dog they have a lot of learning to do…and you a lot of teaching! To learn from the written word, I am part way through building the ultimate resource in the form of this site. Routines for feeding, exercise, grooming and visits to the vet are all easily managed with a little knowledge and by planning a schedule in advance and sticking to it. Spending quality time with your Lab is also key, especially regular grooming sessions. You should also attempt to learn your dogs normal living habits, how much he eats, drinks and sleeps. Anything To Add? As always, if you have any questions, would like to offer feedback, suggestions or further advice on the subject, please do so in the comments section below. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. 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. Owning a Labrador can be lots of fun An introduction to Labradors If you are considering buying or adopting this popular dog breed, our guide to owning a Labrador is just for you! We will answer all the most frequently asked questions below, to help you determine if living with a Labrador would be ideal for your family. Originally bred to retrieve nets for fishermen and later to retrieve fowl and game for hunters, the Labrador Retriever is now one of the most popular pets in the UK. The breed benefits from the positive character traits of being reliable, trustworthy, good natured and dependable, leading to their reputation as great family pets. Labradors are very sociable by nature, forming strong bonds with their owners. They do however, need lots of exercise and mental stimulation and can be inclined to being over enthusiastic and bouncy. They are renowned for their huge appetite for food and tendency to chew as puppies. What size are Labradors? Labradors are a strongly built medium — large breed of dog. When purchasing one as a puppy, it is important to consider this. You should ensure that your home and garden have plenty of space to accommodate a large and lively doggy resident. Fully grown males typically weigh KG and measure around cm to the withers. Females weigh KG and measure around cm to the withers. Do Labradors make good family pets? Labradors generally have an easy going temperament with playful and intelligent character traits. Their affectionate and loyal nature means that they can be ideally suited to becoming a family pet, with the vast majority enjoying the company of children. Labradors are known to thrive in a family home environment with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, attention and training. However, please note that young children should always be supervised around any breed of dogs and appropriate care should be taken. What colours are Labradors? Labradors come in three colour varieties, which are black, chocolate and yellow. Yellows range from light cream to red fox. What is the average life span of a Labrador? Labradors live for approximately years on average, when cared for correctly and fed appropriately. How much does owning a Labrador cost? This is just the purchase price of course, there are also ongoing costs. These include equipment such as collar, lead, toys, bedding and a dog guard or car harness. You should also budget for the cost of food, pet insurance and regular vaccinations, flea and worming treatments. There may also be additional costs, such as training classes. Are Labradors easy to train? Labradors are generally always very eager to please, with kind and willing natures. This means that they are relatively easy to train. They also have a very high food drive meaning that they learn very quickly when there is a food reward at the end of a training session. They are particularly suited to training for assistance dog roles, genuinely enjoying this kind of activity. At Barking Mad Dog Care, we are proud to be official charity partners of Dogs for Good , a life-transforming charity, which creates partnerships between people living with disability and specially trained assistance dogs. We are proud to sponsor Prince, pictured below. He is just about to be matched with a family after completing initial training. Labradors like Prince are often selected to be assistance dogs 7. How much exercise do Labradors need? Labradors need to be given the right amount of exercise to stay fit and healthy. An ideal amount of exercise for this active breed is roughly two hours a day. This relates to fully grown adult Labradors. Puppies should be walked following the rule of five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day. It is important to include activities other than just walking, as Labradors require lots of mental stimulation. They love to retrieve, as their name suggests, and are generally sociable when playing with other dogs, if well socialised. If Labradors become bored, they are far more likely to become destructive and display unwanted behaviour. How much grooming do Labradors need? Labradors are fairly low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Like all breeds though, regular grooming on a weekly basis will keep their coats and skin in good condition. Frequent grooming can also help with their tendency to excessively shed fur. Feeding a Labrador 9. Feeding a Labrador Labradors are notorious for their love of food and are prone to putting on weight if fed an inappropriate diet or quantity. It is important to feed your Labrador a good quality food with all the right nutrients, right through from puppyhood to old age. Do Labradors like water? Labradors were originally bred for retrieving objects from the water. They generally love swimming and splashing around in water courses and lakes. Remember to take care when walking them near to water which is unsafe for them to swim in. Many Labradors will decide to jump in of their own accord. Conclusion: owning a Labrador should be determined by your lifestyle When making the decision to own any kind of dog or puppy, it is important to give real consideration to whether or not they are suitable for your lifestyle. However, it is natural to worry about what will happen if you have to leave your new best friend to go away on holiday, for work or for a non dog-friendly occasion such as a family wedding. Established in , we have many years of experience of offering home-from-home care for Labradors and the many other breeds of dog. Why not find your local branch today and get in contact to discuss care for your Labrador? Please note, our information about Labradors is a brief description for the benefit of our website visitors. The points we make are a generalisation of breed characteristics. Every dog is an individual and will have different needs. We would advise carrying out lots of research, both online and in person such as with your local vet before making a decision to purchase or adopt a Labrador puppy or adult dog. Share This Article:. They help you find the information you need right now. You might also want to check out our sections on Labrador Puppy Training. Do let us know what you would like to see added to the site. We are always happy to have your comments and suggestions. When To Collect Your Puppy We highly recommend that puppies are not removed from their breeder until they are 8 weeks old. There are lots of good reasons for this. It helps puppies develop good bite moderation skills before they are adopted into a family, ensures that they are ready to adapt quickly to their new life. And it helps to reduce the sad numbers of puppies bred for a quick profit. Puppies sold under seven weeks old often have health problems and need special care, and extra veterinary attention. Check out the following articles for further information: When can puppies leave their mother Your first puppy Your first puppy is a huge adventure. You have so much fun ahead. Labradors are generally very friendly dogs, but they can also be very distractible. So do start daily training games, using plenty of food. You can get regular training tips from Pippa by email, using the box below. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. There are hunter-dogs named after their origin, the Labrador region in the United Kingdom. Despite being retriever gun dogs, labradors are friendly, intelligent, kind, outgoing, and high-spirited. Many dog owners like to have labs as companions because of the very nature of the breed. The Need To Puppy-Proof Puppy-proofing your home should be your primary focus when you bring home lab puppies. For example, when the baby teeth come out during teething, you must be careful of objects the puppy might chew up. Be careful of house plants. Puppy proofing is necessary to keep your new puppy safe and in good health and care. Rugs and carpets: Your puppy needs to be potty trained and might confuse training pads for carpets. Some puppies also chew up carpets and rugs while teething. Poisonous products: These could be in your garden, garage, toilet cleaning products, washing detergent, batteries, etc. Keep an eye out for poisonous liquids your dog might ingest, and keep them far above or out of sight. Case your wires: Curious pups eat up everything — wires for your lamps, mobile and laptop chargers, etc. They eat up shoes, and slippers can rip up clothing, upholstery, toothbrushes, pens, pencils, and more. It may be funny at the moment, but the laughter goes away when you have to rush to the veterinarian for an ingested TV remote. Labs enjoy 10 to 12 years of happy and spirited living. Rest assured. A Labrador is one of the best things for your kids to grow up around. This includes providing good care and ensuring they have all the nutrition, exercises, and training. How to Set Lab Puppies Up for Successful Training The key to setting your lab puppy up for training is to reward them when they do it right. The way is through positive reinforcement rewards for good behavior and negative reinforcement removing something for bad behavior. Negative reinforcement instills fear in your puppy. It leaves the puppy confused and leaves behind some trauma. Reinforcement is most commonly used to train puppies. Remember that a puppy must be fed enough to meet their growing and rapidly changing needs. After that, they begin to wean, but regular milk works if the mother is not around. Here are a few notes on how to feed your growing labrador puppy : Puppies need calories to fuel their growth! Feed yours three meals a day until they reach the six-month mark. After six months, two meals a day is enough. Puppies younger than 8 weeks need soft or wet food — now this can be either store-bought puppy food soaked in warm water to make it spongey or homecooked food. Here are some recipes to make wet puppy food at home. This is important to avoid your pup becoming aggressive and not well-adjusted. Other consequences include excessive barking , snapping, growling, and fear. The socialization window is between 3 and 16 weeks when the animal is curious and less wary of danger around them. After this period, it can be challenging for you and the dog to create a healthy atmosphere for socialization. However, many labs have been known to live up to 14 or even 16 years with impeccable care. Throughout these years, they go through various stages, and you must be in the loop about what each entails. This allows pet parents to see if their dog is on the right track, if he needs additional care, or to be checked by a veterinarian. This falls under house training your curious pup, and there are multiple methods. Remember that the key to potty training is a tight schedule and a designated place for labs to relieve themselves. Besides, they should only be taken for walks after vaccination, not before the eight-week mark. These are liquid-proof, lined pads that aid your puppy in understanding that they cannot simply pee and poo anywhere. It requires vigilance and guidance on the part of the puppy owner to guide him to the pad. Using training pads also requires you to know how often your puppy needs to relieve himself differently-aged dogs have differing pee and poo requirements. This is how you keep your puppies house-trained. Having your puppy accustomed to crates is an invaluable necessity. Also, once accustomed, dogs like sitting in crates and find it relatively comfortable. They seek safety you may have noticed dogs digging holes in sand or dirt to sit comfortably. However, it would be best if you did not keep your dog crated or caged all day. Have a crate just enough for the dog to turn around but not big enough to walk about. This prevents the puppy from peeing or pooping inside the cage. Believe it or not, dogs also dislike when their spaces are dirty! Your pup may defecate a few times but will stop if it causes discomfort. If you see your pup whining, barking, scratching, or trying to get your attention another way, react. He is signaling that he wants to go to the bathroom, which is when you take him for a walk. At this point, you need to be wary of when your puppy calls out for you; otherwise, he might do his business in the crate. Timely walks during crate training are the key to potty training your dog perfectly. Socialization Labrador puppies are active dogs known for being outgoing and friendly, so socializing tends to be simple. Regular walks also accustom your puppy to new sounds, smells, and sights. Visits to dog parks, public parks, and dog-friendly markets are also helpful. Invite people often, allowing your puppy to interact with more humans. Even better if your guests come over with their dogs! This prevents separation anxiety. Puppy love play dates! If you know somebody with a new puppy, set a play date for the two or more. Give them chewing toys , have some treats handy, and allow them their space to play. Be wary. Watch closely when your puppy is playing with another puppy so you can intervene in case something goes wrong. Grooming There are two ways to groom labrador retriever puppies — professional grooming or baths at home. The idea is to keep your pet clean and tidy. When your pups spend a lot of time playing, they risk catching ticks, fleas, mites, and other pests. Tick fever and other illnesses caused by parasites can be incredibly harmful to your puppy. Make sure to comb for ticks frequently, especially if you often spend quality time outdoors. Grooming also includes ear and teeth cleaning to avoid infections in these areas. Nail cutting , and haircuts, keep your dog looking as well as feeling healthy. Keeping your puppy clean with pet wipes is advisable until they are at least 8 weeks old. You may bathe your puppy at home after the 8-week mark. Pups run the risk of both becoming too cold and hot. Your pup may also feel frightened at being left alone at the groomer. Refrain from fretting because this is where his socialization training will help. Given that the immune systems are developing until six months, immunize your puppies on time. According to the American Kennel Club, puppies should ideally be fully vaccinated against a long list of diseases by the time they are 16 weeks old starting from 6 weeks. These diseases, once contracted, are treatable but not curable. Worms can come out in the poop or via vomit and can be seen by the dog owner. While an adult dog requires deworming every three months or so, puppies require the same more often. Even though their mother may be dewormed, parasites can often pass over to the baby dog during birth. The following deworming schedule is appropriate for growing labrador puppies: Between birth and 3 months — every 2 weeks Between 3 and 6 months — once a month After 6 months — every 3 months Teething Labradors usually start teething at about 2 weeks. Pups can use them to scratch, bite, and even tear up things. Teething can be painful, itchy, and uncomfortable, and puppies usually feel the urge to chew up things at this point. Instead of letting them chew up your furniture, invest in chewable toys. Cold and frozen foods can also soothe the discomfort. Alternatively, you could freeze some meat broth into cubes and feed them to them. Not only does this relieve the growing pains, but it also makes for a fun treat! How To Care For A Labrador Puppy The Juvenile Stage — 16 week old- week-old labrador puppy Around four to six months, or the juvenile stage, labradors are almost done with their growth and ready to wreak havoc. Your lab must be potty trained, vaccinated, dewormed, and socialized by this point. Remember, these are your responsibilities as a pet owner. Playing with them, taking them for long walks, and taking them to the dog park help. This includes leash and obedience training for basic commands sit, stand, no, off, down, stay, drop it, come, and so on. Basic training can be carried out both by you or a puppy trainer. Training your puppy is a fun activity for you and your dog pet. Leash training Teaching your puppy best how to behave while on walks is essential. Most use a collar for home and a harness for walks to prevent hurting the neck during outdoor activity. You must teach your dog you are in charge, even though they might lead you. Refrain from training your pup to run along with an extended leash, which can be dangerous. Frequent walks aided with treats and play for good behavior are the key to appropriately leash training your labrador puppy. Obedience training Make your dog listen when you command them to act, such as sit, stand, come, down, etc. This is the most basic form of training to raise a well-mannered doggo. Thus obedience training is mandatory. There is a multitude of ways to go about training your lab. Your best bet is an experienced trainer who can teach your puppy the basic commands and fun tricks like roll over, turn around, high five, paw , and more. Oh and get them a dog house. Labradors have large bodies and relatively small legs, so climbing stairs can be dangerous if not done right. Swimming comes naturally to dogs; many boarding centers, groomers, and vet clinics offer doggy swimming pools. Adolescent Period — 24 week old- 72 week old labrador puppy This stage warrants the continuation of obedience training, so it is instilled in the pup for his lifetime. These babies look like adult labs but are still puppies at heart and in their behavior. Only get one if you have the time to manage and train them. Lay off the kibble and give your dog more home-cooked solid dog food. Raw food works, but be careful Natural treats like sweet potatoes peeled , cucumber, watermelon de-seeded and peeled , carrots, and other veggies can be super nutritional for your dogs. Peanut butter has a strong smell which can mask that of medications. Use it both as a snack with veggies or to administer oral medication. Although Labradors are generally healthy dogs, they are notorious for developing particular health problems. Hip dysplasia and arthritis : Owing to the dwarf gene in many labs resulting in large dogs with relatively shorter legs. Progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts: Many labradors may inherit eye problems. Look out for cloudy, red, or puffy eyes, bumping into objects, and pawing at the eyes. After this, reduce this to once a year or so for regular checkups, leaving aside emergencies. Bathing your puppy before the eight-week mark is not advisable; one must be supremely careful. Store-bought organic treats are good, but the healthiest are always home-cooked. Veggies like carrots, celery, broccoli, green beans , and cucumber often with peanut butter are wonderful for your puppy only after they switch to hard food. Labradors are healthy and outgoing breeds that are not difficult to care for. However, only get your pups from reputable breeders. With potty training, consistency, and a tight schedule are key. Check your method — you may need to be more attentive when your pup needs to go for a walk or may not be taking him for enough walks. Make sure to create a good schedule and, more importantly, stick to it. If your puppy has done something wrong, give her a timeout or take something away, like her toys. Ensure not to be intimidating — avoid screaming, shouting, or using physical punishments. This can cause more harm than good. A loud clap, a yelp in case of biting , or ignoring your pup for a short while works. You can bathe your labrador once a month — more frequent baths can dry out their skin and give way to rashes and infections, and less frequent baths can leave your lab stinky and dirty. Male labradors are generally much larger than female labradors. The dog grows between 50 and 80 pounds, with male labs on the higher side. Male labs are also taller and longer than females, usually around 20 to 25 inches tall. Think of puppies as children because they are! Fun toys or their own bed create a stress-free atmosphere. Consider getting a frisbee and teaching your dog how to catch it and play frisbee with you. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness.

This is the space between the shoulder blades. Toy Poodles follow the small dog pattern of hitting their height and weight milestones a little earlier. These dogs stop getting taller at around months and stop growing entirely by the time they are a year old. Are There Different Sizes of Poodles? As covered above, there are three recognized sizes of Poodle: Toy up to 10 inches, lbs , Miniature inches, lbs , and Standard inches, lbs. The larger dogs are the originals, bred for retrieving. Both smaller types came about later as the French cottoned on to what excellent companion animals this breed made. Beyond this, people may also speak of Klein Moyen Poodles which fill the gap between Miniature and Standard Poodles at inches in height and lbs, and Teacup Poodles that are around lbs. These are both unofficial sizes, and Teacup dogs are discouraged in most breeds because of the potential health implications of breeding dogs so small. Photo by Linda Segerfeldt on Unsplash There may also be some slight size differences between male and female Poodles. Poodle Growth Patterns The growth patterns for your Poodle are very much based on which Poodle they are and their potential adult size. Most dogs of every breed and every size do an exceptional amount of their growing in the first half-year of their life. With small dogs, this happens in the first three months. Your Poodle will likely reach their adult height somewhere between 6 and 12 months. Larger dogs will continue to increase in weight for a further 6 to 12 months after that, although their growth rate at this stage will be much slower than before. Check out these guides on best dog food for puppies here. How Big is a Full-Grown Poodle? Depending on the type of Poodle you have opted for, they might be anywhere between 7 to 27 inches in height and 2 to 70 pounds in weight at full size. As you can see, there is a massive range of Poodle sizes. You can get some idea of what to expect for each kind from the tables above. Photo by Arjan Stalpers on Unsplash Beyond that, keep an eye on how your puppy is growing. For a Standard or Miniature Poodle, you will be able to calculate their potential adult weight at 5 months by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. For Toy Poodles, you will be able to calculate their potential adult weight at 3 months by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. You can calculate their potential adult weight at 23 weeks by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. Poodles are generally considered full-grown somewhere between 12 and 24 months of age, depending on their type. This is when they will have reached both their adult height and weight. As the breed has been around for a while, the standards are pretty much set in stone, so you can know precisely what you are getting. What kind of diet do we give our pooches for a healthy weight? What you should never overfeed a dog? You should never ever overfeed your dogs too much carbs as they get stored as fat in the body if they are not used. Unfortunately, carbohydrates are much cheaper an ingredient as compared to the other nutrients like protein. Hence, they are often used by major large dog food manufacturers to make up the weight of dog food whilst keeping the prices of the dog food low. This is the main reason why pets all over the United States are getting obese. And, ironically, this became the driving forces behind the rise of these healthy pet food startups , as their founders seek to provide their own proper and much healthier alternatives. The high fiber content will make your dogs feel content faster and thus eat less. And since fiber does not get stored in the body like carbs do, it can be promising measure to keep your pooch's weight under control. Mathematically, eating less will reduce weight gain. However, it can easily lead to malnourishment if your dog is not given the proper nutrition. We are talking about nutrients beyond the common proteins and carbohydrates. They include omega fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, amino acids and many more! The key here is not to eat less. The key here is to maintain a balanced diet. And what constitutes a balanced diet? That requires a deep understanding and a wide study in the field of pet nutrition to truly determine it; so much that it warrants a university degree. To get the most balanced, holistic and healthiest dog foods , it is often better to leave it to the experts. Have you been scheduling your dog's meal time wrongly? And does it really matter? Scheduling your dog's meal time will tune their stomach to become hungry only at their meal times. Combining this with the right amount of dog food given to them, it will keep your dogs from becoming hungry out of meal hours. In turn, this will maintain their metabolism rate and utilize all the food they consume fully and appropriately. As a bonus, regular meal time will also discourage them from scavenging around the house like little vacuum cleaners as they grow accustomed to the amount of food they are given and to be used for the intervals between meal times. These food brands are not your typical corporate pet food manufacturers. These are pet food startups fueled by the passion from their pet enthusiasts founders who only want the best for all dogs under the sky. Each of them have came up with their own unique formula that will surely satisfy your dogs' taste buds without compromising their health. Click here or the button below to learn more about these bespoke food brands. Underweight and undernourishment is as real an issue as obesity among dogs. Underweight dogs appear thin and frail. And before you know it, they will start to lose all the hair on their coat and look like anything but a dog. These cases created a market of specialized dog food that help your dog to gain weight healthily. Here are 7 of the best dog foods for weight gain that can help your underweight dog get back its glory. Read more by clicking the button below. At what age is a Poodle fully grown? Poodles are considered fully grown adults at two years old and tend to show emotional signs of maturity, like a calmer nature, around 18 months. At a year old, most Poodles will have reached their final height or very close to it. However, most Poodles will require a full two years to fill out their chest and reach their final weight. Image Source: Pexels How big should a 6-month-old Poodle be? A six-month-old male Poodle will weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a six-month-old female Poodle will weigh about 28 to 34 pounds. Both male and female Poodles at this age stand at around 18 to 22 inches tall, which for some Poodles is already their full adult height. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on pet first aid kits, puppy-proofing practices, training, veterinary appointments, and more! How much bigger will my Poodle get? There are a few ways to assess how much bigger your Poodle will get. The first is age. If your Poodle is less than a year old, they still have significant growth left! If your Poodle is between one and two years old, they are likely still filling out a bit, but are probably at their adult height. Do they still look oversized next to their legs and body? If this is the case, they are probably still filling out as this is a classic puppy feature! A Poodle puppy will rarely grow larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you an idea of their maximum size. What is the size of a full-grown Poodle? According to the American Kennel Club Official Poodle Standards , an adult male Poodle is 60 to 70 pounds while an adult female Poodle weighs between 40 and 50 pounds. By these standards, full-grown Poodles will be over 15 inches tall when measuring from the ground to the highest point of their shoulders while standing. Most Standard Poodles will stand between 18 and 24 inches tall. Smart lifestyle choices are essential in keeping your Poodle happy and healthy. The Veterinary Centers of America recommend a long walk, jog, or intense play to fulfill their daily exercise needs. Poodles were bred as retrievers and, as such, are keen on games involving retrieving like fetch. Many Poodles also enjoy swimming. Due to their full coats, Poodles can put on excess weight without their pet parents realizing it. Poodles are not overly prone to weight issues with a balanced diet, but their coat can disguise weight changes. Their full coats also require regular upkeep like brushing and combing every other day, professional grooming every six weeks or so, and watching for potential eye problems. Poodles are prone to weeping eyes and eye irritation from lashes or hair, so keeping their eye area free of long hair is ideal. As a purebred dog breed, Poodles are more susceptible to genetic health problems. Many of these genetic health problems can be screened for early on using DNA technology. These early screenings can help you and your veterinarian prevent and minimize health complications from these genetic diseases. A bove all else, regular veterinary care is the best way to make sure your Poodle stays healthy. Between health screenings, regular veterinary care, bloodwork, x-rays , dental cleanings , and more, your veterinarian is your best resource in caring for your precious Poodle puppy. Be aware, vet visits can quickly become expensive - especially when immediate treatment or surgery is needed for an emergency or illness. With many treatments and surgeries costing thousands of dollars, this can quickly put pet parents in a pinch should the worst happen to their pet. Poodles are larger dogs, which can also increase the price of treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Pet insurance reimburses you for out-of-pocket veterinary costs and provides a safety net should the worst happen to your Poodle. As purebred dogs, Poodles are more prone to genetic health problems, like bloat or hip dysplasia, which can quickly become expensive to treat. Final Considerations Poodle puppies grow into elegant, proud dogs who are true aristocrats of the dog kingdom. We know how much your Poodle pup means to you and that they deserve the best! Give yourself peace of mind today when you use Pawlicy Advisor to compare personalized pet insurance quotes from the top Poodle pet insurance companies. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Their growth happens quickly with the correct nutrients received from the mother. Your pup will grow rapidly from this stage, gaining about 1 pound 0. Their eyes will now be fully open and also be able to hear sounds. Your puppy will weigh between 4 and 5 pounds 1. Most puppies will move on to their new homes at this age. They will receive their first vaccinations at this age, and it is a good time to have your vet give them a thorough examination to determine any issues going forward. Their bones and joints will grow and strengthen, so proper nutrition is vital for their development. By the time your puppy is three months old, it will be around 13 to 19 inches 33 to .They will be learning to explore and become active. Your Standard Poodle will weigh about 30 pounds .They will start becoming far more active and should be between 19 and 23 inches .This period is all about exploring and mischief. Both male and female puppies will stand around 18 to 22 inches .This is the full adult height for some standard-sized Poodles, and you should not expect any more significant height growth. This will range from 23 and 37 inches .Their weight will be between 45 and 70 pounds .Genetics and Common Health Problems When trying to work out how big your puppy will be as an adult dog, one of the best ways of determining this would be to look at the parent dogs. When you purchase a Poodle puppy from a breeder, you will have a chance to meet the mom and the dad. If they are on the large or small side for the breed, likely, your dog will also follow in their footsteps. If your dog contracts any common health problems that haunt this breed, his growth could also be affected. Hip dysplasia is also a common ailment in large breeds and causes significant amounts of pain and can affect growth. Bloat is another terrifying ailment for this breed that is potentially life-threatening if not caught early. It occurs in big-chested breeds where gas gets trapped in the stomach, requiring surgical intervention. Epilepsy is a hereditary ailment in Poodles and is known as Idiopathic epilepsy. Many of the above diseases can be avoided through proper nutrition and regular vet checkups. Neutering or spaying dogs too early could cause them to grow unevenly. This is because bone and joint development are affected by reproductive hormones. While Miniature and Toy dogs can be neutered at around six months, you should wait until your Standard Poodle is around one year old before the procedure is performed. At the right age, neutering or spaying your dog can have many health benefits, including reducing cancer risks, preventing aggression, and preventing unwanted puppies. Feeding Habits A balanced nutritional meal plan will ensure that your pet grows at the optimal rate, developing strong bones and joints to carry their weight. To prevent your dog from growing too quickly and to provide him with all the supplements and nutrients he needs for healthy growth, it is recommended to feed your Standard Poodle, a large-breed puppy food for at least the first year of his life. Physical Activities While Standard Poodles need plenty of exercise, be careful not to over-train your growing puppy, as their joints and limbs have not fully developed, and irreparable damage can be caused. Dogs need to be brushed and groomed regularly. Included in this regime should be teeth brushing. We know Standard Poodle dogs develop problems with their teeth. You will also need to maintain a healthy diet with plenty of exercise. Healthy Diet Large breed dogs like Standard Poodles should eat high-quality dog food crafted explicitly for them. Foods for large dogs differ from other dog foods in that they generally have higher levels of protein, fat, calcium, Vitamin D, and Phosphorus. Also read: Best Dog Food for Poodles 2. Their joints and limbs are not fully developed, and any strain could lead to a lifetime of complications for your Poodle. Standard Poodles love water, so swimming is always an excellent way to exercise. A full coat can weigh your dog down, so if your Poodle loves to swim, you might consider giving him a shorter haircut like a kennel cut or summer clip. Manage Stress To keep your puppy stress-free, expose him to as many new situations, people, and dogs as possible during his early years to become well-socialized. It can take these dogs a whole year to reach their full height and even longer to reach their fully grown weight. Trying to get your dog to grow more quickly by feeding him more or exercising him intensely to build body mass is a dangerous process that could lead to the opposite effect. Even once your dog has reached his full height at a year, it will still take him another year to fill out to his final adult size. When do Standard Poodles stop growing? At a year old, your Poodle should have reached its total height, or at the very least be very close to it. There will not be much height growth after this milestone. Your dog will start adding body mass and strengthening the joints to handle the weight. A Standard Poodle should have matured and calmed down by the month milestone; however, this depends on the owner and how they have interacted and trained him in his foundation months. An untrained Standard Poodle can keep their momentum going until the age of 4 or 5 years. Do Poodle types have different growth rates? Yes, Standard Poodles are much slower to grow than other Poodles. These dogs are not small, and their bones and joints have much more growing to do. Miniature or toy breeds will reach their adult size quicker than bigger dogs. Miniature and Toy Poodles will already look the size of an adult dog by around six months old. What if my dog is overweight or underweight? Standard Poodles are full of high energy and fast metabolism. It can be challenging to tell if your dog is overweight, mainly if he is very fluffy. You should use your hands to check your dog to see if he is overweight regularly. You should easily be able to feel his ribs under his skin. You can also cut out all treats and increase his daily exercise. Making these small lifestyle changes can quickly help your dog lose that extra weight. For Poodle breeds, underweight dogs are very common, though. You could also increase portion size or opt for high-quality food with higher fat content, although this should be done under the professional guidance of a trained veterinarian. With more information about Standard Poodle puppies, their height, and their weight now in hand, you can begin measuring your pup. The food you give your dog and his exercise regime also has a big part to play in keeping your dog healthy and growing well. Do you have a Standard Poodle at home? How big is your dog? We would love to know more about him in the comments below. Raised by a bundle of botanists, researchers, and biologists, she is passionate about things related to the animal kingdom, including, our furry friends. However, as a terrible allergy sufferer, she is limited in her pet selection and so has grown up surrounded by curly-haired Poodles. Leave a Comment. The AKC calls for Standard Poodles to be taller than 15 inches and weight pounds females or pounds males. Most adult dogs reach a height at the withers of inches. Size genetics can vary quite a bit and even within puppies of one litter there could be big differences in adult size. Of course, you should never choose a dog based on looks alone — whether those are colors like the Parti Poodle or certain size requirements. However, if you want a specifically small dog, a female is more likely to fit the bill. On the other hand, if you want a large dog, pick a male. Is a Standard Poodle a large breed dog? Yes, Standard Poodles are large dogs. Standard Poodles will require daily exercise and stimulation like every dog breed. They are very handler-focused and love to be with their people. How big is a small Standard Poodle? In reality finding a Standard Poodle who is just above this height would be highly unusual. Small females are closer to inches tall. If you are looking for a specifically small Poodle, going with a Toy or Miniature Poodle might be your best bet. Do big Standard Poodles require more care? Every dog is going to require daily care, exercise and enrichment, regardless of their size. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

View fullsize Both our chocolate Labradoodle and our Poodle are beautiful dogs with excellent temperaments. They are our family pets. Because we begin with a Labradoodle and a Poodle, rather than a Lab and a Poodle, our puppies are much more likely to have the non-shedding Poodle coat. A F1b Labradoodle has been back-crossed to a poodle in an effort to insure a non-shedding coat. Even though most f1b Labradoodles shed very little or not all, it is impossible to guarantee that any dog even doodles or purebred poodles will not shed at all. Hypo- means less hypothermia is having a lower than normal body temperature. No dog can be said to be completely non-allergenic. Studies have shown that doodles are less likely to cause allergies, particularly f1b doodles. The ideal is to keep as much of the Lab head shape and super-friendly personality as possible while getting the non-shedding Poodle coat as well as the dignified, less vocal characteristics of the Poodle. Our Labradoodle methodology is quite simple. First, we get quality dogs. This is why we wanted to have pick of the litter for our Labradoodle and our Poodle and why we only obtained puppies from reputable breeders that we knew we could trust. Second, we try to treat our dogs Labradoodle and Poodle well. We feed our Labradoodle and Poodle high quality food with plenty of protein, and give them wonderful socialization and opportunities for exercise. We have 12 acres along the Enoree River with trails, additional property next to a Greenville state park, and property on Lake Hartwell giving us the opportunity to take the dogs kayaking. We recognize the importance of socializing young Labradoodle puppies so they will not be fearful as they mature. Our Labradoodle puppies have lots of opportunities to play with our children, and water games are definitely on top of the list. Labradoodles love the water and so do my kids, as you can see below. Third, we try to find appropriate families for our Chocolate Labradoodle puppies. To learn more about our process, check out this resource that gives a step-by-step guide between the application to receiving your puppy! A Chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle is not for everyone, and a puppy is not for everyone. If your family is not prepared for a Labradoodle puppy financially, time investment, etc. When can you get your puppy? Because we have only one Labradoodle mother and a couple guardian homes , puppies are available only occasionally. Contact us nathan crockettdoodles. We have a flexible waiting list and offer your deposit back if we do not have the ideal Labradoodle puppy for you within a certain window of time. Sometimes with mini Labradoodles we prefer to wait until they are a little older than 8 weeks because accidents tend to happen more easily with really small puppies. We will take several pictures of you with your Labradoodle puppy. We will send you the pictures for free place them on a USB thumb drive for you , and you will have full copyright privileges to all of the pictures to use at your discretion. You have the option of whether or not the photos appear here on the ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Although we never ship puppies, we will sometimes personally deliver puppies for a reasonable fee. Why should you consider getting a Chocolate Labradoodle from us? If a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy is right for your family, and if you are within driving distance of Greenville, SC, you may want to consider getting a chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle from us. If you read our Labradoodle puppy methodology and like what you read, you should consider adopting one of our puppies. We have a three-year health guarantee on each of our puppies if the forever home continues to feed TLC one year health guarantee on all others. How can you get a Chocolate Labradoodle or Labradoodle mini from us? If you think your family would be a good match for one of our Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppies, then start the conversation by emailing us at nathan crockettdoodles. You will have full access to all pictures and hold the copyright to make as many pictures as you desire. You keep all the pictures. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality collar. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality leash. We give you a bag of high quality dog food. We believe that you should give your new Labradoodle puppy or mini Labradoodle puppy the best food. Instructional materials about crate training and house training. Our goal is to do everything we can to assist in the house training and crate training process. A Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy or any puppy cannot be completely reliable in the house until the puppy is about 6 months old. The simple point is that no matter what some breeders tell you you will be partially involved in the house training process unless you buy an older Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle , but we want to help you with that process. A one-year health guarantee; extended to three years for all who continue to feed TLC. We are concerned with finding really good homes for our Labradoodle and mini Labradoodle puppies. Labradoodle Color To see a list of available colors, check out this page. At ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Ultimately we cannot completely control the color of puppies. Even though chocolate is the most desirable color, we sometimes have puppies of other colors even occasional merles. These puppies, will of course, also make excellent pets. These non-chocolate Labradoodle puppies are also available to great families, but we know that Chocolate Labradoodles are the most desirable. The Labrador Retriever has a short coat that sheds. By breeding the F1 Labradoodle back to an unrelated Poodle, the chances of getting the highly desirable non-shedding Poodle coat increase exponentially. Some F1B Labradoodles are bred back another time to a Poodle in an effort to guarantee a Poodle coat. If high quality dogs are chosen to breed that have the head shape of a Labrador Retriever it is possible to get a puppy that is very similar in many ways to a Labrador, but has the beautiful non-shedding Poodle coat. Both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are highly intelligent dogs, helping Labradoodles excel in smarts, train-ability, and a general desire to always please their owner. If you desire a family-friendly, kid loving, medium energy dog that is comfortable inside or outside, that loves the water and the land, you should definitely consider a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle. For more info about Labradoodle puppies or mini Labradoodle puppies, please email nathan crockettdoodles. Check out our sister site miniLabradoodlePuppies. We specialize in Chocolate Labradoodles and mini Labradoodles, but often we have other colors as well. Occasionally someone travels from Atlanta, Columbia, Raleigh-Durham or Knoxville, but our proximity to North Carolina and the popularity of Labradoodles in North Carolina make Charlotte and Asheville our most serviced locations. We also have some who are interested from distant states, but we primarily serve the Southeast U. The most common Labradoodle colors are black, cream and gold. Black Labradoodles are common finding generally one per litter. These Labradoodles represent the base price for a dog within this breed. The color of a cream Labradoodle can vary between different shades with some having red tinges through their coat. Although the color cream may vary the whole coat should be one consistent color. Apricot Labradoodles are often born with lighter colored coats that darken over time while others that are born apricot in color develop to have a light cream coat. The entire strand of fur on a golden Labradoodle should be the same color. Golden Labradoodles often fade as they grow. These dogs are neither common or rare. These Labradoodles should hold their color until adulthood. The chocolate colored Labradoodles tend to be a popular choice. Their coloring should be even. Chocolate Labradoodles often appear almost black at birth. A parchment should not have other colors mixed into the fur. Large blotches of any color on white make for an acceptable Parti colored Labradoodle. The hardest to breed and come by is the red Labradoodle. Any combination of two colors is acceptable as long as they have the distinctive markings. A black and gold phantom is among the most common. These dogs are on the rarer spectrum. These Dogs are on the rarer spectrum. While gold is a common color, the birth of a Labradoodle with a deep red coloring is as rare as they come. A red Poodle is unusual making a red Labradoodle even harder to come by. The roots of a red Labradoodle should match the tips. Red Labradoodles are hard to breed and even harder to come by. Red Labradoodle Puppy and Adult The range of Labradoodle coat colors is extensive although no matter which puppy you pick, Labradoodles make loving life long friends. Related posts:. One of the unique features of Australian Labradoodles is the wide variety of coat colors and patterns. While Labradoodle colours are interesting, we maintain that you are buying a living creature and not a coat colour. It is essential to retain the appearance of an Australian Labradoodle within the breed standard, but we feel charging for colour is not a fair practice. Van Isle Doodles looks for families whose focus is on adding a labradoodle puppy as a family member to their home. Depending on the intensity of the pigment, a red dog may appear to be a deep red color all the way to a light brown color. Cream Cream labradoodles range from almost white through to latte depending on the intensity of the pigment. This is our Bruno Mars who is a light cream color with black leathers. Black Black Labradoodles range from jet black to silver. This is Cinder Ella an example of a jet black Labradoodle. Chocolate Chocolate Australian Labradoodles range from a milk chocolate color when pigment is diluted to deep, dark chocolate when pigment is intensified. Oceana middle is a dark chocolate Labradoodle with brown leathers. Caramel Caramel ranges from a creamy color to a darker red. The brown leathers make the dog caramel rather than red. Here are some examples of our caramel dogs. Parti Labradoodless can come in any color. This is our caramel and white parti girl, Bernadette. Phantom A phantom is a solid color with tan points. The markings are similar to those found on Yorkies, Rottweilers and Dobermans. Tan points for the phantom pattern are pips above the eyes, along the side of the jaw, a band across the chest, run halfway up all four legs, on the vent and sometimes on the underside of the tail. Phantoms may be either black Labradoodles or Chocolate Labradoodles. Dexter is a chocolate phantom Labradoodle. Tri A tri colored Labradoodle is a phantom plus white. A tri Labradoodle may be black or chocolate. This is Tawnee who is a black tri. Sable A sable Labradoodle has each single hair in their coat banded by color. Each strand of hair has two colors. The tip of the strand will be either black or brown and the color at the root may be red, tan or apricot. Because the top inch or so of the strands of hair are either black or chocolate, at birth a sable Labradoodle will appear to be a black or chocolate dog. Once the strands start to grow out, the change color becomes visible. The amount of time it takes to see the second color varies from birth through to about six weeks of age. Since Labradoodles do not shed, at least as little as any dog is capable of not shedding, they do not generally grow new strands of hair. Once a sable Labradoodle has been groomed, the dark chocolate or black tips are lost and the dog then becomes red or tan in color. This is Ripple our chocolate sable parti girl. Brindle Labradoodles are not common. This puppy is a brindle Labradoodle. If you look at his feet, you will notice the stiped pattern of his color. Van Isle Labradoodles. Contact Us Labradoodle Colors Australian Labradoodle coat colors colours come in a wide variety of options. Below is a listing of the different coat colors, coloring descriptions and what to expect with their coats throughout their lifetime. Caramel Caramel colored dogs have liver noses brown. Their range of coat color can vary between light yellow to almost red in hue. The difference in a caramel dog and a chalk, cream, apricot and red dog is their nose color. Chocolate True chocolates are brown in color. Many chocolates do fade over time. Cream This color comes in a wide variety of shades but it should be creamy in appearance. The nose pigment is black. The pigment for the nose is black. Parchment This color is a creamy beige chocolate color. It has been described as a cup of coffee with a generous addition of milk. These dogs are born milk chocolate and will develop their parchment coloring over time. The nose pigment is rose. Red True reds should be rich and dark in color and the roots should be no lighter. Sadly, this coat color tends to fade over time. The nose color is to be black. This color develops over the first years. Nose pigment should be rose. Chalk This color is a white looking color. However, if you were to compare it to a true white, it would appear to be more chalk-white in color. Nose pigment is black. Black Black Labradoodles should be solid in color with no sprinklings of other colors throughout the coat. Their pigment color should be black. Silver These pups would start out black and their silver coloring develops over the first few years of their lives. The color range can be anywhere from a light pewter to a dark charcoal. Silver dogs need to have black pigmentation. The blue coat will develop over the first few years. The color should be solid once they are full grown. It should be a dark-medium smoky blue. Lavender This color has a smoky lavender chocolate coloring that almost gives off a pink to lilac appearance. These pups are born chocolate and will come into their beautiful lavender coats over the first few years. Their pigmentation should be rose in color. Parti These dogs need to be at least fifty percent white, with spots or patches of any other above solid color. Full or partial saddles are acceptable, but are not preferred. Ticking in the white of the coat is acceptable but not preferred. The nose pigment needs to match the solid color. Any combination of acceptable colors is allowed. Nose pigment should follow requirements listed above based on the solid base color. Information and photos republished with permission from Australian Labradoodle Association Save Ready for your puppy? They usually combine a Standard Poodle with a Lab, and have a dark wavy coat. Most chocolate Labradoodles weigh around 50 — 65 lbs. You can expect them to have the same temperament as other colors of Labradoodle. Could a chocolate Labradoodle dog be the right choice for your family? Keep reading. What is a Chocolate Labradoodle? Chocolate Labradoodles are just like any other type of Labradoodle. Except for the fact that they sport a luxurious dark brown coat. These dogs can be the standard or miniature in size. Standard Labradoodles weighs up to 65 lbs. Whereas the miniature version usually only weighs around 20 lbs. Chocolate Labradoodles are popular dogs for families. Particularly those with older children. Best Environment for Them This breed prefers an active environment so they can run about and socialize with others often. But they can also be quite boisterous. So, they may not be suitable for families with pets or very small children. The main difference is indeed the coat color of the coat. But, some evidence suggests the chocolate color might be linked to specific personality traits too. But otherwise, chocolate Labradoodles are just like any other Labradoodle. For example, the Goldendoodle is a Golden Retriever-Poodle mix with similar traits to the Labradoodle. With obvious differences in appearance, of course. Typical characteristics of the Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are are water dogs native to Newfoundland, Canada. They stand up to .Labradors are prized for their companionship and outgoing nature. They love to swim and run, and make excellent service dogs, too. These agile natural athletes have a waterproof coat that helps them excel at hunting and retrieving waterfowl. Labrador Retriever Coat Colors Although there are many types of Labrador Retrievers, people generally break them down into types by color. The three main coat colors for Labrador Retrievers are black and, of course, chocolate. Poodle Characteristics Poodles, on the other hand, have fluffy coats that can be multicolored, solid, or bi-colored. Chocolate brown is a popular coat color in Poodles, too. Genetics Behind the Labradoodle Two pairs of genes that determine the basic coat colors in dogs like Labrador Retrievers, Poodles, and of course, Labradoodles. While chocolate is not as genetically common as black, dogs of many colors can carry the genetic instructions for chocolate fur. And you might be surprised to hear that even two black dogs, can create chocolate Labradoodle puppies! Or a black dog and a yellow dog. Chocolate Labradoodle Temperament Chocolate Labradoodles behave just like any other kind of Labradoodles. But with one small exception. Does Color Matter? The chocolate coat color in Labs might be correlated to higher excitability. At least, one study published in the journal Applied Animal Behavior Science seems to provide some evidence of this. Scientists discovered a greater tendency to become agitated when ignored. And in addition, lower trainability but also lower fear of noise. These trends are based on owner-observed differences between Labrador colors. Labradoodle Temperament Of course, the temperament of the individual Labrador parent will be a large influence. Chocolate Labradoodles are usually also quite friendly, playful, and energetic. Although they can be somewhat reserved around strangers. This particular trait is common in Poodles. But it can be dampened down by regular socialization. Labradoodles are strong and active. They are often chosen for hunting and farm work as well as for public service. In addition, Labradoodles make excellent seeing-eye dogs, guide dogs, and other types of service dogs. Training Requirements of the Labradoodle Labradoodles are easy to train and they respond best to positive reinforcement training. Plus, Labradoodles require frequent interaction and positive reinforcement training. This is something recommended for all breeds. They also benefit from lots of activity. This can help reduce behaviors like jumping around small children and other guests. Chocolate Labradoodle Health There is little detailed evidence to suggest the chocolate color has any link to overall health. But, a limited amount of research shows that chocolate Labrador Retrievers are becoming less healthy as a breed. And therefore, dying much younger sooner than black or yellow Labradors. Genes The gene that creates a chocolate coat is recessive. So, breeders that want to guarantee a high proportion of chocolate-colored puppies in their litters must mate two chocolate-colored Labs. As a result, the gene pool is much narrower and the risk of inheriting health conditions is higher. This includes problems like obesity, ear infections, and skin problems As a result, it is possible that your chocolate Labradoodle may suffer from the same health conditions as its Labrador parent. Inherited Health Conditions Ultimately, any health issues your dog inherits will depend on the genetics of the parents. And how purebred the parents are. If your dog was bred from a purebred Labrador and a purebred Poodle, it can be tough to determine what kind of health problems your dog might have. After breeding further generations of chocolate Labradoodles together, it may be easier to determine which health conditions are genetic. Health Testing Always select a breeder who has tested the chocolate Labradoodles for known genetic health problems. According to the Canine Health Information Center, you may want to test your chocolate Labradoodle for problems such as: hip and elbow dysplasia. Silver beige White The Poodle breed also includes 18 potential color combinations! On top of this, the genes necessary for brown coats are recessive. So, a more dominant gene, like the one for a black coat, will often overpower it if it is present. With such a wide range of possible coat color combinations and patterns in the Poodle breed line, breeders often find it hard to breed for a true chocolate Labradoodle coat color that remains consistent throughout life. Chocolate Puppies Can Change Color Unique among the other possible Labradoodle coat colors, the chocolate coat color has a tendency to fade over time. Sometimes the coat color will stay a deep, rich, dark chocolate tone. But more often than not, the dark chocolate will start to fade. Even the most color-knowledgeable Labradoodle breeders are generally hard-pressed to determine what the chocolate coat will do over time. This is the reason the chocolate coat color is considered to be rare in doodles. Later in life you might find your gorgeous brown doodle starts to change color again. Breeding a true chocolate Labradoodle that stays a true chocolate all through life can be as much of a surprise to the breeder as to the dog owners. Does Labradoodle Coat Color Matter? It is true the Labrador Retriever dog parent contributes simpler coat color genetics to the Labradoodle breed. But Labrador Retriever enthusiasts are known to have their own opinions about the three classic coat colors and which one is best for what roles. For example, yellow Labradors are the top pick for service dogs and guide dogs. Black Labradors are prized for hunting, retrieving and hunting roles. Chocolate Labradors are considered ideally suited for show dog competitions and family pets. Is this factual? Or is it just so much personal opinion codified into fact? Here, the answer really depends on what types of activities you want to pursue with your pup. For most owners, as long as their Labradoodle puppy is sound and healthy, coat color is incidental. There is nothing wrong with wanting a Labradoodle dog with a specific coat color. We all have our preferences, which is what makes our world so colorful and fascinating. Often, this is just a method that less reputable breeders will use to try to inflate puppy prices. And, remember that Labradoodle puppies are just as likely to inherit one of the many Poodle colors, rather than the three standard Labrador shades. Their temperament will be very similar. However, there will still be variations between puppies, as mixed breeds can inherit any traits from either parent, and how they are raised plays a large part. As long as you train and socialize your chocolate doodle dog well from a young age, they will most likely be very friendly, energetic, and intelligent. Most Labradoodles, chocolate ones included, are eager to please and love spending time with people, particularly their closest family members. These large dogs are energetic, too. They do best in active families that have plenty of time to spend with them. Chocolate Doodle Health A few year ago, a research study made waves by announcing that chocolate Labrador Retrievers might be less healthy. They reported that they are more likely to become obese, suffer from ear infections and joint disorders and die earlier than yellow or black Labrador Retrievers. But is this a concern for Labradoodle dogs, who have one Labrador Retriever parent dog and one Poodle parent dog? It is hard to say. So if you want a brown Labradoodle, just be sure you work with a responsible, health-focused breeder. One who has deep knowledge of the canine genome and keeps careful health records for her breeding dogs and their puppies. When the breeder invests the time and expense to pre-screen parent dogs for all known heritable genetically transmissible health conditions before allowing a mating, there will always be less risk that the puppies will grow up to develop serious health issues. Health Issues to Watch Out For There are some health problems that all Labradoodles, including chocolate ones, are prone to. These are just a few of the major problems that can affect Labradoodles. This will decrease the risk of an unhealthy puppy. They may be willing to contact you if they get a chocolate colored puppy in their future litters. Always avoid puppy mills, pet stores, and backyard breeders, even if their chocolate Labradoodles are cheaper. These places usually give their puppies worse care and are less interested in their health. Some dogs are given up to rescue centers because of behavioral issues, but there are lots of reasons for dogs to end up there. Many go on to make wonderful, loving family pets. Work closely with rescue center staff to make sure you find a dog that will suit your family. Let them know your situation, including if you have other pets and children. As the Labradoodle breed gains popularity, breed-specific rescue centers are becoming more common. But, if there are still none near you, check rescue centers dedicated to the parent breeds. They may accept mixed breeds, too. Rescue Labradoodles will often be cheaper than puppies from breeders, and they may have some basic training. Do You Love the Chocolate Labradoodle? Chocolate Labradoodles can make great canine companions. These high-energy dogs love to run and romp and play — and their favorite playmate will always be you! If you love the idea of making your new dog the center of your family and world, a dark brown Labradoodle might be your perfect new family pet. References and Resources Lewis .Labradoodle Coat Colors. Australian Labradoodle Association. Coopshaw .Two Different Types of Pigment. Dog Coat Color Genetics. Mattinson .Which Labrador Color is Best? The Labrador Site. Attaway .McGreevy et al. Canine Genetics and Epidemiology. Post navigation. This color can do some interesting things! It can fade into at least three distinct, official Labradoodle colors! Go figure!! I have had one of my chocolate girls turn completely Lavender on her body but not the head, then within a year, go completely back to dark chocolate. So, like a good Boy Scout, when you purchase a chocolate Labradoodle, be prepared for anything! All are lovely, but they are almost impossible to predict with any significant degree of accuracy. Once again, be prepared for anything! Chocolate Colors Now we get to the fun part; the color combinations! This is where things get interesting. Partis can come in any color, with either color nose. Some are mostly white, while some have lots of color and less white. The ones that are mostly white are called "Extreme" Partis. The variations are endless and unique, like a snowflake. The colors, such as chocolate, on a parti can change in the same ways that they would on a solid dog. Often confused with "Parti" is a dog with heavy white mismarks or a Tuxedo. White mismarks can be very small or very heavy, or anywhere in-between. The puppy is born either Black or Chocolate and immediately begins to lose the dark color, revealing anything from a cream to a red underneath! The tips of the fur may retain their dark cast, but the dog will present as somewhere on the cream-red spectrum. I have included her picture below showing her in the middle of the changing process. The genetics of color are absolutely fascinating! Dark Chocolate Labradoodle Dark Chocolate Labradoodle via pearlygirl Dark Chocolate Labradoodles feature a rich, dark brown coat that sometimes so dark that appears to be black unless under sunlight. Dark Chocolate Labradoodles have dark brown noses and dark brown or black eyes. These locations include the chin, throat, chest, legs, beneath their tail, above their eyes or on the sides of their muzzle. Phantom Chocolate Labradoodles are different from Chocolate Parti Labradoodle as Parti Labradoodles can have patches anywhere on their body and their base color is white instead of brown. Specifically, Chocolate Merle Labradoodles feature a chocolate, copper, beige and white coat in a mottled pattern. Most of their coat is a beige-grey and they feature chocolate, white and copper patches throughout it. Chocolate Merle Labradoodles have light or dark brown noses. In most cases they have light brown eyes however they can sometimes have blue or greenish eyes. Chocolate Labradoodle via lizzee. Wavy and curly coats are the most common while straight or flat coats are seen in Labradoodle generations that have a higher percentage of Labrador Retriever genes than Poodle genes. Wavy Coat Wavy coats are very common for Chocolate Labradoodles. Their coats are quite light, loose and shaggy looking and usually ripple when they move. Wavy hair is classified as a fleece type coat. Curly Coat Another common coat type for Chocolate Labradoodles is a curly coat. These coats are much denser and thicker than wavy coats and more closely resemble the coat of a Poodle. Curly hair Chocolate Labradoodles are usually more hypoallergenic than other coat types as they shed less and therefore release less dander into their immediate environment. Curly hair is classified as a wool type coat. There can be variation in what straight coats look like for Labradoodles. Chocolate Labradoodles with straight hair can feature: Medium long fur that grows consistently over the face and body Scruffy fur with tufts of hair sprouting out randomly over the body Straight tufts of hair with a short wavy undercoat Feathering along the tail, legs and face Slick and glossy coat.