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Pat yourself on the back, as you chose a tremendous breed! While adding a puppy to your family is an exciting time, raising a young puppy also requires pet owners to undertake a series of responsibilities. Puppies will require regular feeding , potty training, some toys to play with , love and attention, and, last but certainly not least, vaccinations. However, during their puppy period, they will require a series of vaccinations that are essential to their ability to fight off bacteria and diseases. Booster Vaccinations for Labrador Retrievers The first vaccinations that your labrador retriever will need are called boosters. Why call them boosters? Super creative, we agree! The first booster vaccination is recommended to be done between weeks old and is done to combat canine distemper. In many states, giving your pets a rabies shot is required by law. DHPP Vaccine and Beyond The third vaccination that your labrador retriever is scheduled to receive takes place between 16 and 20 weeks old. This very efficient shot contains four vaccines all in one that fight against distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, and parainfluenza. Depending on the where you and your new puppy live, your labrador retriever might also need to be vaccinated against diseases such as lyme, leptospirosis, and coronavirus. The name kennel cough derives from the likelihood that dogs that are boarded contract it. The vaccine DHPP is used to prevent kennel cough. Hepatitis in dogs is a viral disease that attacks a their liver and eyes. It can lead to reproductive issues and causes significant discomfort. Though humans can also contract forms of hepatitis, this form can not be transmitted to humans. It can be transmitted to humans. DHPP is used to prevent it. Parvovirus is a serious and highly contagious disease that is especially dangerous for puppies. It is often fatal. The cost of vaccinations will vary slightly depending on the provider. We recommend that you call a few of your local veterinarians or clinics to ask for price quotes for of each vaccination you are preparing to give your puppy. Another option for pet owners is to consider acquiring pet insurance for their labrador retriever. Pet insurance provides pet owners with the freedom to make veterinary decisions without stressing the financial implications. Learn why most vets recommend pet insurance to pet owners. Looking to learn more about your labrador retriever? PetPlace is a wonderful resource for pet owners who want to discover more about their pet, and others. We have thousands of vet-approved articles that will quench your thirst for pet-related info. Specific to labrador retrievers, you can discover 5 attributes about labs that make them great or tips for house training your new puppy. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Vaccinations can protect your dog against a variety of life-threatening illnesses. Not to mention, some vaccinations are required by law. Why Do Puppies Need Vaccinations? Puppies need vaccinations to help prevent the catching of various dangerous diseases. If your dog ever comes in contact with a disease they have been vaccinated against, his immune system will know how to destroy it. There are vaccines available to protect your puppy against more than 11 different diseases. However, depending on your circumstances and where you live, your puppy might not need them all. Your vet will be able to recommend those they think your really needs, with others being up to your choice. There are four core vaccines for diseases all puppies should be vaccinated against and seven non-core vaccines that the American Animal Hospital Association and the American Veterinary Medicine Association recommend. The non-core vaccines may or may not be recommended by your vet, depending on different variables, mostly the prevalence or absence of a disease in your area. The Core Vaccinations Rabies. This is a potentially fatal and highly contagious disease. Depending on which state or country you live in, your dog will need to have a booster once every one to three years. This common virus is hard to treat and has an 80 percent fatality rate, which is why inoculating against it is so important. Canine viral hepatitis is also known as adenovirus. Canine distemper. Before vaccination, this was a big killer of dogs. Vaccinating against this disease will protect your puppy if he comes in contact with the virus while out and about. The Non-Core Vaccinations Lyme disease. The vast majority of cases have occurred in the eastern American coastal states between Massachusetts and Virginia. Parainfluenza and Bordetella. The parainfluenza virus and the bordetella bacterium are both major causes of kennel cough. Inoculation is generally only necessary if your puppy is going to be exposed to many other dogs. For instance, at boarding kennels, doggy daycare or dog shows. This infectious disease is a common cause of stomach upset. This bacteria can infect dogs and their human companions. In serious cases it can cause organ failure and death in dogs. In certain high-risk parts of the country, your dog might need a booster every six months. Giardia are parasites that commonly live in the digestive tracts of dogs. Many dogs have them, but they rarely cause problems. How Are Vaccines Given? Most vaccines are given as injections. These are given either under the skin or into the muscle. Most combination injections protect against distemper, leptospirosis, hepatitis, parainfluenza, coronavirus and parvovirus. This allows their body time to develop a good immune response. Recommended and Most Common Schedule of Vaccinations: 6 to 7 weeks old: This is when your puppy should get his first combination injection. He needs his second combination vaccine. Make sure you have a record of his first injection to show your new vet. If necessary, he will also have a Lyme disease vaccine. At this point, your vet will advise you when your puppy can go out for his first walk. Are There Any Risks Involved? Unfortunately, there are potential risks to having your puppy vaccinated. That said, the risks are far outweighed by the benefits. However, you should monitor your dog closely after a vaccination and contact your vet right away if you notice any of the following symptoms: Hives. Rabies Vaccine Rabies is a viral infection caused by a virus secreted in the saliva. According to the Humane Society , because the infection affects the nervous system, most rabid animals behave abnormally. When should puppies get rabies shots? Generally speaking, puppies should get their first rabies shot around 16 weeks of age and again between years old. Rabies Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks Booster: every 3 years Non-core Vaccines Non-core vaccines are important, but they are considered optional for dogs with less risk of infection. Non-core vaccines are recommended based on lifestyle and where you live or travel. Bordetella Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium associated with respiratory disease in dogs and is known to cause the most severe form of kennel cough. Symptoms of an upper respiratory infection include nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing, congestion, etc. Some veterinarians may recommend Bordetella as a core vaccine for puppies based on their living environment, especially for social dogs who spend time in areas where they might come into contact with the bacteria like the dog park, boarding facilities, or doggy daycare. The vaccination can be given orally, intranasally, or by injection. Bordetella Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks Booster: every year Leptospira Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by infection of the genus Leptospira, which are found in water and soil. The zoonotic disease spreads easily from animals to humans and is more common in warm climate areas with high annual rainfall; the Leptospira vaccine may be considered core in these areas. Signs of leptospirosis may include shivering, fever, muscle tenderness, increased thirst, dehydration, diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, jaundice, kidney failure, liver failure, etc. Leptospira Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks 3rd shot: 1 year Booster: every year There is also a 5-way vaccine known as DHLPP, which is a combination vaccine of distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, and parvo. Lyme disease Lyme disease is caused by infection with the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi which is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. The most common symptoms in dogs include loss of appetite, lameness, joint swelling, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. More serious cases can also develop kidney complications. The Lyme disease vaccine is highly recommended for dogs that live in or frequently travel to areas known for Lyme disease, as well as those living in areas with a high risk of tick exposure. Lyme Vaccination Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks 2nd shot: weeks later Booster: every year Canine Influenza Canine influenza, or dog flu, is a contagious viral infection affecting dogs. The virus is spread through aerosols or droplets containing respiratory secretions from barking, sneezing, and coughing. Dogs in close contact with infected dogs in places like daycare facilities, groomers, and kennels are at a higher risk of contracting the disease. CIV causes an acute respiratory infection in dogs, with the most common clinical sign being a cough that persists for up to 21 days. Vaccines are available for both H3N2 and H3N8 canine influenza. A bivalent vaccine offering protection against both strains is available as well. Dogs become infected when they swallow the parasite that may be present in water or other substances that have been soiled with feces leading to the disease Giardiasis. Giardia in dogs usually causes diarrhea, weight loss, or even death. Giardia is an available vaccine for puppies 8 weeks of age and older for 6 months of immunity against giardiasis. Most common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Young dogs are at a high risk of contracting the disease, so the vaccine is highly recommended for puppies under eight weeks. Rattlesnake vaccine A rattlesnake vaccine can help dogs build antibodies to rattlesnake venom from bites that are often deadly and severely painful to dogs. The antibodies work to neutralize the venom, thereby significantly extending the window of time you have to take your dog to the emergency room , increasing their odds of survival. Protect yourself from heartbreak without breaking the bank. Compare quotes to find the best deal for your budget. After that, puppies should receive a series of vaccines every two to four weeks until actual protein can be achieved between the ages of 6 and 20 weeks old. Your vet will determine a safe vaccine schedule for your puppy based on their weight, health, age, etc. Some pet parents prefer getting multiple puppy shots in one vet visit to minimize stress on their pet, whereas others prefer to spread the shots out to reduce possible side effects and soreness — talk to your vet to create a safe vaccine schedule that works for you and your puppy. Rabies depends on local laws but is usually given by the time your dog reaches 3 to 6 months old. When should puppies have all their shots by? Most vets prefer giving the final DHPP shot at 16 weeks or later; however, new recommendations suggest up to 20 weeks out. When do puppies need booster shots? Abstaining from booster shots can put your puppy at risk. However, not all vaccines require yearly boosters. DHPP vaccine booster: every two weeks for a total of three sets, then every three years Lepto, Canine influenza, and Lyme disease vaccine booster: one month after the initial series, then annually Bordetella booster: 1 year or every 6 months where there is a concern Rabies booster: every 1 to 3 years after the initial round, depending on state laws Puppy Vaccine Schedule There are several types of puppy shots your pet might get in their first year. In addition to a deworming schedule, your vet will suggest a vaccination schedule for puppies based on their age, environment, and medical history. Most vets recommend this general timeline for first-year puppy shots: weeks of age Between 6- and 8-weeks-old, puppies get their first shot of the DHPP distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus vaccine. They might also receive their first round of vaccinations for Bordetella and Lyme disease. Leptospira Lepto is a common puppy vaccination administered around this time frame. They'll also get their first rabies vaccine depending on state-mandated vaccine schedules for puppies, as well as a second shot of the Lepto vaccine if applicable. Boosters Every Years Puppies will need a booster shot for all vaccines at age 1. Dogs need booster vaccinations for Bordetella, Lepto, Lyme, and Giardia annually receiving their first immunization as an adult. The vaccination schedule for DHPP and rabies is every 3 years, but check your local laws and defer to your veterinarian's advice to ensure your pet stays free of disease. How much are puppy shots? Non-essential vaccines your vet may recommend will also increase the price. Note that puppy shots cost more or less depending on several different factors, including your location. For instance, vets in crowded urban areas tend to charge more than vets in smaller towns and rural areas. Also keep in mind that you'll need to budget for booster shots in one- or three-year intervals to ensure your pet stays protected from disease. Fortunately, vaccines for dogs are less expensive than first-year puppy shots because boosters are administered in one dose every few years, as opposed to multiple doses every few weeks. All puppies need to get the core vaccines, i. Your veterinarian will consider the risk factors and advise you on which vaccines are best for your puppy during the first vet visit. No, but both vaccines for puppies are often combined in one shot. Distemper and parvovirus are two different illnesses that are potentially fatal if not treated quickly. What is the 5-in-1 shot for puppies? Do puppies need 3 or 4 sets of shots? It depends on their age; vets may recommend a shorter puppy vaccination schedule for dogs over 16 weeks old and not yet fully vaccinated. How many shots do puppies need before going outside? A titer test is a blood test showing whether your puppy has antibodies for a particular illness. The test can be used to determine the effectiveness of a vaccine and help determine if or which booster vaccines your dog needs. Most doggy daycares and boarding facilities do not accept a titer test in lieu of a puppy vaccination record. When should puppies get dewormed? Because worms are very common in puppies, veterinarians recommend deworming them for the first time when they're two to three weeks old. Is there a heartworm vaccine for puppies? Preventatives can either be administered as monthly medication or every six months by injection. How can you save money on puppy shots? One way to save money on puppy vaccines is by visiting a low-cost vaccination clinic. These clinics typically offer packages that combine a bundle of vaccinations into a lower price point, but also offer individual options if your dog is due for a specific vaccine. Another way to save money on puppy shots is by purchasing a pet wellness plan through a pet insurance provider. 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.

If you have a Toy Poodle, you want to make sure you are feeding it the best food possible. Toy Poodles are one of the most popular small dog breeds. They are known for their intelligence and their spunky personality. Knowing how important your dog's nutrition is, this article highlights some of the best food options for Toy Poodles that are vet-tested and owner-approved. What is the best food to give a Toy Poodle? What is the best food to feed my Toy Poodle? It is made with high-quality proteins and contains essential vitamins and minerals. Royal Canin dry food for Poodles helps to maintain healthy skin and coat. This grain-free food is made with real roasted meats and contains omega fatty acids to promote a healthy coat. It is also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, made with real chicken, turkey, and salmon. It is rich in omega fatty acids and contains probiotics 2. Freeze-dried dog food is considered to be a more natural and nutrient-rich option compared to some other types of processed dog food. It is also convenient to store and serve, as it does not require refrigeration. It is important to note that freeze-dried dog food should be rehydrated before serving, as it is not meant to be fed to dogs in its dry form. It is important to carefully read and follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging to ensure that your dog is receiving the appropriate amount of food based on its size and activity level. It's generally recommended to feed your Toy Poodle a high-quality, grain-inclusive dry dog food that is formulated specifically for small breed dogs. This is because small breed dogs have different nutritional needs than larger breeds, and a diet formulated for their needs can help support their overall health and well-being. Look for foods that contain real meat as the first ingredient and avoid any containing fillers, by-products, and artificial additives. Your veterinarian can help you determine the right diet for your Toy Poodle. It is important to consult with your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist to determine the best type of food for your dog, as each dog is unique and has specific nutritional needs. They will be able to consider your dog's age, size, breed, and any health conditions they may have when recommending a suitable type of food. It is also important to carefully read and follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging to ensure that your dog is receiving the appropriate amount of food based on its size and activity level. If you're looking for the best dog food for Poodles, chances are you're a Poodle parent! In that case—hey there. As a veterinarian, Poodle parents often ask me to recommend the best dog food brands for their furballs. Poodles are one of the most diverse dog breeds out there. However, they're also prone to obesity, especially as they grow older. And while there are many factors to Poodle obesity , giving them an improper amount of food definitely tops the bill. According to Dr. As a result, pet obesity has followed the human obesity trend. Unfortunately, pets are getting high-fat, high-calorie treats, human food, toppers, etc. It's essential to find the best dog food for Poodles to fit your dog's nutritional profile and feed them according to their needs. You should first consider your dog's current activity levels, health conditions, age and life stage, and other variables. You sure wouldn't want to feed your dog with foods that aren't beneficial to them, would you? Below, I will take a closer look at the Poodle breed across all sizes. We'll also discuss their general needs and nutritional requirements before we review some of the best dog foods for Poodles. Did you know that the Poodle was once a duck-retrieving dog? It's true! The Poodle has also been around for over a century and was developed in France and Germany. Over the past years, the breed has been molded into the variations we know today. Each type looks identical to the others except for the size. Toy Poodles tend to weigh under 10 pounds, miniatures fall between pounds, and the standard is large at pounds. They all possess a thick, densely curly coat, floppy ears, a long tail, and expressive dark eyes. The Toy Poodle lives the longest, up to 15 years, while the standard's lifespan is about years. Poodles are fun, energetic dogs that love to be around people. They tend to be very good with children and possess a natural athletic ability. Poodles have never forgotten their heritage. Most are great swimmers and expert retrievers. They are a breed to be considered by avid sportsmen as they make excellent, intelligent duck dogs. Nutritional Needs It's this dynamic nature that makes it challenging to feed a Poodle. No matter what size you own, you must find the best dog food for Poodles to meet the breed's nutritional requirements. And above that, your specific dog's needs. But Dr. Shores, should I feed my toy poodle less because she's small? And is puppy food okay? My advice is: Talk to your veterinarian about the best diet for your Poodle. Your vet is the best place to start. They'll make recommendations based on your Poodle's age, weight, activity level, and any health issues she may have. It will also help if you do your research which is where this article comes into play. I wrote this article based on my and my expert colleagues' recommended dog food brands for Poodles. We will discuss them based on their different life stages and body condition. If this is your purpose in reading this article, I suggest you bookmark this article, start the car, and go to the vet clinic. Continue reading when your vet gives you the advice you need on feeding your Poodle based on her nutritional needs. There are certain factors, even in the best food for poodles, that you must consider before buying one. Here are the important factors to keep you guided: Age The type of poodle dog food you'll buy will depend on her life stage. During the puppy stage and gestation period, too! In this case, you need to buy the best food for poodles that will give them all the vitamins and minerals that a growing puppy or pregnant dog, whichever is the case needs. Breed Size Yes, your poodle dog food will vary depending on your pooch's breed size. Every size of this breed has its respective metabolism. Smaller poodles tend to mature faster, which means they need nutrient-packed poodle dog food. Wet or Dry Feed Most dog owners prefer dry dog food or kibble because it's cost-effective. Nothing wrong with that. However, if your vet recommends having a mixed feed, you might need to combine wet and dry feed for your pooch. Nutrition The golden rule when buying the best food for poodles is to be balanced and complete. This means that the essential nutrients should be present in every serving. Providing a balanced meal for your pooch also means that the nutrients are in the right ratio and suitable for the poodles, depending on their age and breed size. What to Feed a Poodle Puppy Before switching your dog to any new diet, always consult with a veterinarian. Remember that no article on the internet can replace a consultation with a vet, including this one. I always recommend this to new owners of puppy Poodles. They've also done the legwork in developing the most digestible food for Poodle puppies. The unique flat, square kibble of Royal Canin makes it easier for their small mouths to pick up and chew. This food should be given to your dog for up to 10 months. Best Puppy Food for Standard Poodle Standard poodles are less likely to have developmental orthopedic diseases like hip dysplasia than other breeds. However, they are more at risk than their smaller poodle counterparts. While there is a genetic component to these diseases, significant nutritional risk factors play a part during puppyhood. These risk factors are rapid growth and excess dietary calcium intake. Of course, you don't want your Standard Poodle to develop these. This is why feeding your Poodle enough of the right balance of nutrients is crucial. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. 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. Share Us. Here are the steps I took to select the best dog foods for Poodles: I did my research: As a biologist who has interned at a veterinary hospital and studied dog nutrition, I read many books on Poodles and dog nutrition in general. I also consulted with other veterinarians and pet nutritionists on the best dog food to feed Poodles. I considered the unique needs of Poodles: Poodles have specific dietary needs that vary based on their size and activity level. As such, I looked for dog foods that were tailored to the unique needs of Poodles, such as food that is low in fat and high in protein. I read customer reviews: I spent time reading through product descriptions, ingredients used in manufacturing the food, and customer reviews on Amazon, dog food brands, and e-commerce sites selling Poodle dog foods. This helped me get a sense of which dog foods were popular and well-liked by other Poodle owners. I looked for reputable brands: I also made sure to look for reputable brands that had a history of producing high-quality dog food. This included checking for brands that used high-quality ingredients and had a strong track record of producing nutritious and balanced dog foods. I avoided harmful ingredients: Lastly, I made sure to avoid dog foods that contained harmful ingredients like artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products. These ingredients can be harmful to Poodles and can lead to health problems over time. By following these steps, I was able to compile a list of the best dog foods for Poodles that meet their unique nutritional needs. In the next sections of this article, I will share my top recommendations with you and explain why they are the best choices for your furry friend. Best Dog Foods For Toy Poodles When it comes to toy poodles, feeding them a balanced and nutritious diet is essential to keep them healthy and happy. As a pet owner, you want to provide the best possible food that meets their nutritional needs at every stage of their life. In this section, I will share my recommendations for the best dog food for toy poodles. This section will cover the best puppy toy poodle dog food, the best adult toy poodle dog food, and the best senior toy poodle dog food. Puppies require a diet that is rich in protein, fat, and essential nutrients such as calcium and phosphorus. The poodle dog foods listed in this section are high-quality dry or wet dog food options that are specifically formulated for toy poodle puppies, which are typically small in size to accommodate their smaller jaws. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for toy Poodle puppies. This section will contain the best dry dog food for toy Poodle puppies and the best wet dog food for toy Poodle puppies. It also contains nutrients that promote optimal growth and development. It contains a balance of high-quality proteins and fats. This wet dog food is easy to digest and contains all the necessary nutrients that toy poodle puppies need to grow healthy and strong. Best Dog Foods For Toy Poodle Adults As your toy poodle grows into an adult, their nutritional needs will shift to focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing energy for daily activities. The dog foods in this section are high in protein but low in fat to prevent obesity and other health issues. Additionally, they contain ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that can help support healthy skin, coat, and immune system. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for toy Poodle adults. This section will contain the best dry dog food for toy Poodle adults and the best wet dog food for toy Poodle adults. It contains a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to keep adult toy poodles in good shape. The food also contains antioxidants and other essential nutrients to promote healthy digestion and overall well-being. It contains high-quality proteins and healthy fats, such as turkey and salmon. The dog food is also grain-free, which is ideal for toy poodles that may be sensitive to grains. Older dogs may require dog food with fewer calories and lower fat content to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. The Poodle dog foods in this section contain joint-supporting nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin to aid mobility, and antioxidants to support the immune system. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for toy Poodle seniors. This section will contain the best dry dog food for toy Poodle seniors and the best wet dog food for toy Poodle seniors. It contains high-quality protein, whole grains, and other essential nutrients to support healthy aging and promote optimal health. In this section, I will share my recommendations for the best dog food for Miniature Poodles. This section will cover the best puppy Miniature Poodle dog food, the best adult Miniature Poodle dog food, and the best senior Miniature Poodle dog food. The puppy miniature poodle dog foods I picked are rich in protein, fat, and essential nutrients. I picked these foods because miniature poodles are slightly larger than toy poodles, so they would need dog food with slightly larger sizes to accommodate their growing jaws. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Miniature Poodle puppies. This section contains the best dry dog food for Miniature Poodle puppies and the best wet dog food for Miniature Poodle puppies. It is specially formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of small breed puppies, providing them with the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to support their growth and development. It contains real chicken that provides essential amino acids for lean muscle development. Additionally, it contains vegetables and fruits, providing antioxidants that support the immune system. Best Dog Foods For Miniature Poodle Adults As miniature poodles reach adulthood, their nutritional needs will shift to focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing energy for daily activities. Similar to toy poodles, I picked dog foods that are high in protein but low in fat to prevent obesity and other health issues. Additionally, I picked dog foods that contain antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients that support overall health. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Miniature Poodle adults. This section contains the best dry dog food for Miniature Poodle adults and the best wet dog food for Miniature Poodle adults. It also contains antioxidants and other essential nutrients to promote healthy digestion and overall well-being. It is made with real chicken and lamb which provides high-quality protein to support muscle maintenance. It also contains superfoods like kale that provide antioxidants for overall health. Best Dog Foods For Miniature Poodle Seniors Senior miniature poodles require dog food options that are lower in calories and fat to help prevent health issues such as obesity and heart disease. I choose poodle dog foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin which support joint health and mobility. I also chose poodle dog foods that contain antioxidants and other nutrients that can also support the immune system and overall health in older dogs. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Miniature Poodle seniors. This section contains the best dry dog food for Miniature Poodle seniors and the best wet dog food for Miniature Poodle seniors. This food is specially formulated to meet the needs of aging dogs, with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, and decreased calories to prevent weight gain. It contains real chicken and brown rice, providing high-quality protein and carbohydrates. Additionally, it contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health in senior dogs. In this section, I will share my recommendations for the best dog food for Standard Poodles. This section will cover the best puppy Standard Poodle dog food, the best adult Standard Poodle dog food, and the best senior Standard Poodle dog food. As with toy and miniature poodles, I looked for Poodle dog foods that are high in protein, fat, and essential nutrients. Because standard poodles are larger than a toy and miniature poodles, I looked for dog food with larger sizes to accommodate their growing jaws. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Standard Poodle puppies. This section contains the best dry dog food for Standard Poodle puppies and the best wet dog food for Standard Poodle puppies. Best Dog Foods For Standard Poodle Adults As standard poodles reach adulthood, their nutritional needs will shift to focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing energy for daily activities. I looked for poodle dog foods that are high in protein but low in fat to prevent obesity and other health issues. Additionally, I also looked for ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that can help support healthy skin, coat, and immune system. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Standard Poodle adults. This section contains the best dry dog food for Standard Poodle adults and the best wet dog food for Standard Poodle adults. Older dogs may require dog food with fewer calories and lower fat content to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of health issues such as heart I choose poodle dog foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin which support joint health and mobility. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Standard Poodle seniors. This section contains the best dry dog food for Standard Poodle seniors and the best wet dog food for Standard Poodle seniors. Fortunately, there are many options available that cater to specific health concerns. Here are some of the best dog foods for Poodles with health issues: 1. It is formulated with added glucosamine and chondroitin that promote healthy joints and mobility. It contains a blend of antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E to support a healthy immune system. It contains food with a low glycemic index like sweet potatoes and peas that regulates the blood sugar level of your poodle. It is formulated with a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates and is made with high ingredients that support their overall health. But with so many great dog foods out there that cater to specific health concerns, you can rest easy knowing your furry friend is getting the nutrition they need to live a happy and healthy life. They come in three sizes — toy, miniature, and standard — and have a distinctive curly or wavy coat. Poodles are energetic and require regular exercise and proper nutrition to maintain their health and well-being. Choosing the right dog food is crucial for the health and longevity of your poodle. Providing them with a balanced and nutritious diet can help prevent health issues such as obesity, joint problems, and dental disease. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best dog food for your poodle. Understanding Poodle Nutritional Requirements Poodles are a breed of dog that is known for their intelligence, elegance, and curly coats. Essential Nutrients Required by Poodles Poodles are a high-energy breed, which means they require a diet that is rich in essential nutrients, such as protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Nutritional Needs of Poodle Puppies, Adults, and Seniors When it comes to the nutritional needs of poodles, there are some differences depending on their age. Poodle puppies require a diet that is rich in protein and fat to support their growth and development. Adult poodles need a balanced diet to maintain their health and energy levels, while senior poodles require a diet that is lower in fat and calories to support their aging bodies. Understanding the nutritional needs of your poodle at different stages of its life is essential for choosing the right dog food. Types of Dog Foods for Poodles When it comes to choosing dog food for your poodle, there are several types to consider. The most common types of dog food available are dry, wet, semi-moist, raw food, and homemade dog food. Dry Dog Food Dry dog food, also known as kibble, is the most popular type of dog food. It is convenient and easy to store, and it comes in a wide variety of flavors and formulations. Dry dog food is also affordable, making it an excellent choice for pet owners who are on a budget. Wet Dog Food Wet dog food, on the other hand, is typically more expensive than dry dog food. It comes in cans or pouches, and it contains a higher percentage of water than dry dog food. Wet dog food is an excellent option for dogs who have trouble drinking enough water, as it can help keep them hydrated. Semi-Moist Dog Food Semi-moist dog food is a type of dog food that is soft and chewy. It is often sold in small pouches or packets and contains a lot of sugar and salt. It is not recommended as a primary food source for poodles, as it can cause dental problems and other health issues. Raw Food Diet Raw food diets have gained popularity in recent years, especially for pet owners who want to feed their dogs a more natural diet. These diets typically consist of raw meat, bones, and vegetables. While there are potential benefits to a raw food diet, there are also potential risks , and it is essential to talk to your veterinarian before starting your poodle on a raw food diet. Homemade Dog Food Finally, homemade dog food is an option for pet owners who want to have complete control over what their poodle eats. Homemade dog food can be a great way to ensure that your dog gets all the nutrients they need, but it is essential to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to make sure that the food is nutritionally balanced. Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Food for Poodles When choosing the best dog food for your poodle, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy. Here are the factors to keep in mind: A. Poodle puppies have different nutritional requirements than adults or seniors. A poodle that is highly active will require more calories than a poodle that is less active. Allergies and sensitivities of your poodle Poodles can be prone to allergies and sensitivities to certain foods. If you notice any issues, consult with your veterinarian to determine if your poodle has any food sensitivities or allergies. Look for dog foods that contain high-quality protein sources, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Brand reputation and recall history When choosing dog food for your poodle, it is important to consider the reputation of the brand and its recall history. Look for dog food brands with a good reputation and a history of producing high-quality dog food that is safe for consumption. Price and affordability Price is also an important factor to consider when choosing dog food for your poodle. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it is important to prioritize quality and nutritional content. Look for dog food that fits your budget and offers good value for money. How to Read Dog Food Labels When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your poodle, understanding how to read dog food labels is crucial. Here are the key elements to look for on a dog food label: A. Guaranteed Analysis This section of the label lists the minimum and maximum percentages of protein, fat, fiber, and moisture in the dog food. Ingredient List This section lists all the ingredients in the dog food in descending order of weight. Look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, and fish, and avoid foods that contain a lot of fillers or artificial ingredients. Feeding Guidelines This section provides recommendations for how much food to feed your poodle based on its weight and activity level. Ingredients to Look for in Poodle Dog Food When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your poodle, the ingredients list is a crucial factor to consider. High-Quality Ingredients to Look For in a Poodle Dog Food Some of the essential nutrients that poodles need in their diet include protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Protein should come from high-quality animal sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, or lamb. Fats should come from sources like fish oil, flaxseed, or chicken fat. Carbohydrates should come from sources like sweet potatoes, brown rice, or oats. Other beneficial ingredients to look for include fruits and vegetables like carrots, peas, apples, and blueberries, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. Probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes can also help maintain a healthy gut. How to Identify High-Quality Ingredients in a Poodle Dog Food Look for whole-food ingredients that are minimally processed and avoid artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Instead, opt for brands that clearly list their ingredients and provide detailed information about their sourcing and manufacturing processes. By choosing dog food with high-quality ingredients, you can ensure that your poodle is getting the necessary nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. For example, some ingredients can cause digestive issues, allergies, or even serious health problems. By avoiding these ingredients, you can help ensure that your poodle stays healthy and happy. Additionally, watch out for ingredients that are listed as artificial, such as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. These ingredients have been linked to health problems in dogs. Finally, look for natural and high-quality ingredients, such as real meats, fruits, and vegetables that provide essential nutrients for your poodle. Special Dietary Needs for Poodles As much as we want our Poodles to stay healthy and happy, they may face some health issues as they age. Therefore, it is essential to cater to their special dietary needs. Here are some things to keep in mind: A. Overview of Common Health Issues Poodles May Face Poodles are prone to certain health issues, such as allergies, skin problems, sensitive stomachs, and joint problems. Some of them may be genetically predisposed to these issues, while others may develop them as they age. If your Poodle has allergies, for example, you may want to consider hypoallergenic dog food. For Poodles with sensitive stomachs, easily digestible foods are recommended. For joint problems, food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin may help to support joint health. Some of the most commonly recommended supplements for Poodles include omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and probiotics. Omega-3 fatty acids can help support healthy skin and coat , while glucosamine can help support joint health. Probiotics can help support digestive health and may be beneficial for Poodles with sensitive stomachs. Pay attention to the ingredients and nutritional content listed on the label, and look for high-quality ingredients like lean proteins, whole grains, and fruits and veggies. Equally important is being aware of what ingredients to avoid, such as artificial colors, preservatives, and fillers like corn or soy. You might consider consulting with a veterinarian to help determine the best options for your furry friend. Every dog is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. With a little bit of research and attention to detail, you can help ensure that your poodle is getting the best possible nutrition to live a happy and healthy life. David Cassiel As a biologist and dog enthusiast, I have gained valuable experience and knowledge through my internship at a veterinary hospital and my personal ownership of multiple breeds. My passion for dogs and expertise in areas such as nutrition, care, and training drives my goal of providing a helpful resource for dog owners through my pet website. Find More Search for: Affiliate Disclaimer We may earn commission from Amazon and other retailers when you make a purchase through our links. You can learn more about our affiliate disclaimer here. Ingredients Due to their size and predisposition to certain health conditions, Toy Poodles need high-quality ingredients and nutrient-dense foods without a lot of empty calories. You should look for foods with gentle protein sources as the first ingredients, such as chicken or turkey, or wild-caught fish. After that, the rest of the nutrition should come from complex carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes, fruits, and vegetables. Antioxidants are foods that limit oxidative stress , which can lead to health problems like diabetes. Finally, fatty acids are healthy fat sources that contribute to brain, skin, and coat health. Kibble is hard and can help remove tartar from teeth, supporting dental health. Dry food is also lower in moisture content and may not upset their digestive system as much. If you want the best of both worlds, use dry kibble, and top it with a little wet food or a high-quality food topper. Image Credit: bodnar. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement. Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese Grapes and raisins Sweets and desserts Avocados Dogs can have dried cranberries as a treat, as these berries are good for digestive and bladder health. However, raisins and grapes are toxic to dogs and can lead to significant kidney failure. If you fear your dog has eaten raisins or grapes, reach out to your veterinarian as soon as possible. Dry Food Vs. Wet Food Dogs should rely on dry food as opposed to wet food. However, wet food should be a consistent portion of their diet. Although most dogs would eat only wet food if they could, too much wet food can cause digestive problems and make dogs sick. Dry food offers fibrous content that dogs need for a healthy bowel movement. Wet food offers food rife with vitamins and minerals — alongside an appealing taste for most dogs. However, dry food can help with tooth health and fight gum disease. A healthy combination of dry and wet food can lead to a well-balanced meal and a happy dog. The best possible dog food varieties include those that offer your Poodle only the healthiest and high-quality ingredients available. Although some of these dog food choices may be expensive, they also offer lean proteins like duck and sweet potato, so you know your Poodle is getting only the best from their diet. Although the first ingredient is a chicken by-product, this dog food option is rife with protein, vitamins, and minerals that will help your Poodle feel at the top of its game. The kibbles included in this dog food choice are enriched with omega-3 fatty acids and contain vitamins that will assist in healthy coat formation and healthy gums. Not only is this brand recommended by vets around the world, but it also includes a flavor that dogs seem to love and ingredients that pet owners can feel good about. While the cost for this dog food option is a touch high, it offers the security of knowing that your dog will have all the nutrients and vitamins needed to live a long and healthy life. Each variety contains the exclusive Nutrivantage, and no filler or meat bi-product. Chicken meal and rice flavor. No Corn, no wheat, no soy, no meat bi-products. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Alongside lean protein and quality sources of fat, this dog food option also offers tons of vitamins and minerals. Although this dog food choice is expensive, it is also ideal for dogs who are currently training or need a boost in their performance. Contains one 1 30 lb. Blue Buffalo is notorious for making only the best dog food with real meat as the first ingredient. This is rife with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants that will help your Poodle thrive. Additionally, this dog food is also enhanced with vitamins and minerals specifically for immune system support. ALL NATURAL: Created by nutritionists, veterinarians and animal lovers, our recipes provide an ideal balance of nature's finest ingredients, carefully selected to nourish and sustain your dog's.However, the calorie content of this food is a little high, which can cause weight gain. Additionally, this dog food brand is more expensive than the average, although it does have everything your Poodle will need to keep them healthy and happy. Larger Poodles may not get all the nutrients and vitamins they need from this dog food option, as it is meant for smaller breeds. This choice may be the least expensive choice for dog food while maintaining high-quality ingredients and food rife with minerals and vitamins. There are no artificial ingredients, and there is plenty of protein in this food option. This brand prides itself on not including any animal by-products or fillers. This product is rife with vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy gums and a full coat. Poodles Require Special Nutrients Poodles need more protein than other dogs because of their lean shape, meaning that Poodles may require a unique brand of dog food that can offer enhanced vitamins, minerals, and protein content. Whether you are looking for the best Poodle dog food available on the market or preparing for adoption, these top seven dog food options stand apart from other dog food options because they offer more essential nutrients for your Poodle. Although some options are expensive, these brands can help your Poodle avoid harsh and destructive ingredients like artificial dyes linked with cancer in animals, fillers, and empty calories. Instead, they boast quality and put healthy dog food ahead of profit. Small Poodles may be less than 40 pounds, meaning they may need even more nutrient-dense food to accommodate their small stature — something these dog food brands are passionate about providing. With the best dog food for Poodles on this list, you can be sure that your Poodle is getting everything they need from its diet. Similar Posts. Royal Canin Health Nutrition Poodle Dog Food We saved the best for the last, Royal Canin dog food for small breed dogs, especially Poodles because it is made with a large number of ingredients. It contains specific fibers and resistant starches to help promote digestive health. It contains specific fibers and resistant starches to help promote the digestive health of toy poodles. Promotes beautiful skin and coat health, as well as clear eyesight. Pros Includes antioxidants for an active immune system. Omega fatty acids for strong heart and joints. Prebiotics supports healthy intestinal flora. The shiny coats also mean that this breed needs more baths and tends to shed more. Here are some factors to consider while selecting the finest nutritious dinner for your adorable Toy Poodle. Ingredients You should look for these ingredients in your dog food if you have a Toy Poodle. Lean meat, with the first ingredient being real meat instead of by-products or plant proteins Whole grains instead of added sugars. Whole grains are more nutrient-dense than their processed counterparts and give your dog energy without harmful additives like sugar and corn syrup. You should never offer your poodle pups any of the following ingredients: -Artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives. Poodle Diet And Nutrition: Toy poodles are small breed dogs that need a healthy and balanced diet. Nutritional deficiencies are common with smaller dog breeds due to their fast metabolisms, so they must receive the right amount of nutrients. Nutritional stress not only influences growth but also affects behavior, which in return can hinder training. Toy poodles tend towards obesity because of their small body size and high metabolism traits. Purebred poodle puppies are prone to hip dysplasia. It is essential to provide them with a nutritious diet so they can gain the weight needed for their bones and muscles during developmental periods. Poodle pups are highly active physically, making them susceptible to exhaustion or even obesity due to the lack of exercise and overfeeding. Toy poodles should eat real meat instead of by-products or plant proteins. Serving your poodle premium food will ensure they are getting the necessary nutritional value without added sugars or corn syrup. Nutritional deficiency is the most common type of nutritional deficiency for toy poodles and can affect their growth and behavior. Calcium deficiencies may cause problems with bone development such as rickets, bowed legs, and soft bones. This condition makes it hard for them to stand or walk properly. Protein Toy poodles need a lot of protein in their diet. Lean meats and poultry are considered to be the best sources for this particular dog breed. Healthy protein comes from meat, eggs, fish, poultry, and dairy products. These are all necessary components of a balanced diet for toy poodles. Protein is required to develop muscles and bones in your dog. Muscle development requires amino acids which are obtained from protein intake into the body through food or supplements. Carbohydrates provide dogs with energy, and they also make up the majority of the diet for toy poodles. However, it is important to keep in mind that most toys will need reduced amounts of carbs compared to larger breeds. Poodle dog food should not have more carbs than protein. For the health of your Toy Poodle, it is important to be aware of their carbohydrate content as more carbs can cause weight gain. Like carbohydrates, these should only make up a few ingredients on your dog food list. Fats are responsible for keeping your dog warm and healthy. Fats also keep their skin and fur in good shape, which is why they need to eat high-quality fats every day. The best sources of healthy fats are things like fish oil or salmon oil. A healthy weight should be maintained. Dog food containing these two fatty acids is great for their overall wellbeing. A diet rich in fatty acids will provide your furry friend with healthy skin and a beautiful, shiny topcoat 7. The more antioxidants your dog consumes, the stronger his or her immune system will be, and the better its natural defenses will protect him or her from illnesses. Antioxidants fight the free radicals that are linked to age-related diseases, diabetes, arthritis, kidney disease, and other illnesses. Any prebiotic is beneficial since it encourages the digestive system to absorb as many vitamins and minerals as possible. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the best diet for toy poodles. Some people prefer to feed their dog wet food, while others think that dry food is better. Ultimately, it is up to the pet owner to decide what they think is best for their dog. Choosing different dog foods for toy poodles is similar to choosing human food—you want it to be high in protein with minimal fats and carbs. If you want to be more specific, look for brands that contain chicken or lamb as the main ingredient. This will ensure your toy poodles have all the necessary proteins it needs to remain healthy and strong! The average lifespan of a toy poodle is years. Some health concerns that toy poodles face in their lifetime are: Obesity.

Exercises Grooming From ancient Germany precisely around the 19th century had the now extinct mastiff breed Bullenbeisser and bulldogs brought in from England. At the time of their arrival, they served as hunting dogs for bears, deer, and other ferocious beasts, it would capture the prey with the help of its awesome teeth and detain it until the hunter arrives. And in the first boxer standard club was launched with a comprehensive document that is still in use today. Shortly after, the breed made its way into other European countries and got into the U. S in the late 19th century with the American Kennel Club taking registration of its first boxer around .During the first world war, boxers played the role of a military dog as a pack-carrier, a guard dog, and an attack dog, later they were taken home by the soldiers and got introduced into the domestic world as a show dog, best companion, and a reliable guard. One with so much life, energetic, curious, attentive, active, smart, sociable and incredible fun with children is the boxer, they are also known to be very patient and highly protective of their family members making them the love and desire of many homes. As active dogs, they need a lot of exercise to keep them mentally fit, apparently having a mind of its own, you will find your boxer entertain itself by digging the ground often, chewing, and licking the mouth to beat boredom. They are also very stubborn in character which makes them a terrible choice for first-timers with dogs, they are generally a bit difficult with adult dogs including dogs of a similar breed but friendly with puppies. They usually do not bark unless there is a genuine reason behind it but they love to growl. If you have occupied home with people around all the time or you want a canine buddy the whole time, then a boxer is just the perfect breed to get. Being a highly active dog, they dread loneliness and they can cope finely in both a house and an apartment as long as you provide it with enough room and spaces for exercises and activities. What you must have is a large yard if you are living in a house for it to dig the ground and run around as it likes. And more so, if you are given to being away from home most of the time, getting a boxer may not be the best for you and the dog, because they usually get aggressive when left alone. Boxers are known as loud snorers and they drool greatly too. Boxers are playful and very energetic dogs as such regular exercises are part of a good canine relationship, especially a breed of this sort. Your boxer should be allowed to play in a fenced area and on-leashed since it is likely to jump and leap around in excitement. This puts a boxer as a bad choice for a frail owner as they may find it a tad impossible and daunting keeping up with its excessive activity demands. Being a breed with a short and thin coat its grooming demands are quite easy and little, all it needs is a light brushing of the hair twice every week to maintain its good and gleeful looks. Bathing should be a once in a while since boxers are generally clean dogs and its nails, be trimmed once every month or as often as they grow worn on surfaces, its teeth should also be brushed daily to avoid tartar formation and other dental crises. Our Boxer puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Frequently Asked Questions Are Boxers good family pets? Yes, boxers are particularly fond of their family members especially when goodly trained. Are Boxers trainable? Though the boxers can be a little headstrong, they are very intelligent and with a proper training environment, they respond well. Are Boxers friendly with kids? They are very fond of children and they love playing games with them. Are Boxers friendly with other animals? Boxers are naturally patient with puppies, pooches and small animals but a bit unaccommodating of adult dogs and other animals. Are Boxers good apartment dogs? They can live anywhere you make as a home all you need is to provide it with enough space for exercise. How is Boxers shedding? Given the shortness of their coat, they shed minimally and occasionally, you can also regulate the shedding by frequent brushing of their coat. Are Boxers good for first-time owners? Not quite, as their exercise needs are way too high for their inexperienced hands. Are Boxers loud barkers? But growling is a thing they do most. Are Boxers tolerable to heat and cold? All they need is moderate exposure to heat and cold because of their thin fur body. How long can Boxers live? The average life-span of boxers is 10 years Are you interested in purchasing a Boxer? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. He likes to be held and made over. He goes outside to do his business. Now he is showing signs when he needs to go out to do his business. He begins looking around and whimpering. When I see that, I let him out and he takes care of business. He is very friendly and playful. Loves to go outside into the yard with his siblings to play. He eats anything and everything. Sarasota also called Pixie is a handsome puppy. His size and body structure are the same as Miamy and Destin. He is still a little on the timid side. He likes to be held and to kiss you. He is not an aggressive eater. According to www. Sometime in the 's, a dog known as "Tennessee Lead," a stolen dog of unknown origin, was crossed into the Walker Hound. He was a powerful dog, excelling in game sense, drive and speed, and having a clear, short-chop mouth. The Treeing Walker was not recognized as its own breed until .This direct lineage brings us this efficient hunter. This coonhound has retained the looks of its ancestors, the English Foxhound. An underlying sense of game coupled with untiring speed and manly drive makes this coonhound unstoppable. The coonhound lineage doesn't really stop at the Walker, for American hunters also employ other varieties as well. One such coonhound is known as the Running Walker. The Treeing Walker Coonhound is an efficient and reliable hunter of raccoons, squirrels, and possums. The Treeing Walker "trees" its prey, and can then sometimes virtually climb the tree to get at it. With a little training, however, it will merely bay its distinctive howl, telling the hunter that the prey has been cornered. The Treeing Coonhound is good with children and gets along with other dogs. Training is accomplished with little trouble, as these dogs are able to learn from example. They are primarily working and hunting dogs but will also make a great companion dog. Working, to the Treeing Walker Coonhound, is not work but a sport and diversion. They thrive on consistent and ample attention. High-strung but loving and eager to please, the Treeing Walker is intelligent, skilled and confident. Some say they are the best breed for coonhound field trials because of their speed, ability to locate quickly and good treeing ability. They are swift with a very good sense of smell and a distinctive howl. Socialize at a young age. They have a life expectancy of years. Satchel's Last Resort adoptions satchelslastresort. This 6-year-old boy is always looking for opportunity to play, and loves making everything a game. He is a great ball player and may not always bring it back, but his enthusiasm keeps the game going. He enjoys carrying toys around wherever he goes, squeaky toys are super fun, but Kong toys are also wonderful. Like most Boxers, he also enjoys Boxing with his people, jumping up and giving a light two paw pounce. He also has a prankster side with shoes and likes to untie your laces when you are walking. He is loyal to his friends here at Satchel's but can be a bit picky. He takes a little time to get to know people and, although he is high energy, he prefers a calm first-time meeting. Allman has a Woof Pack leader here at Satchel's and they are working on his acceptance of new people. Once accepted, Allman is a loving, playful, intelligent boy who can't wait to be with you. He walks very well on a leash and loves going on adventures. He knows his basic commands and with treats, he can do them with a swiftness. Allman would be the perfect canine companion for someone who loves being active or has a love for and understanding of the Boxer breed. He would do well with a fenced in yard, or multiple walks to get some of the energy down. If you love the Boxer breed, please consider coming to Satchel's Last Resort to say hello to Allman, this beautiful boy could be what you've been looking for all along! For an appointment to meet Allman, please submit the adoption application no commitment found on our website, www. Considering Allman for adoption?

Here at Blue Frenchies UK, we strive to breed quality, champion bloodline, healthy, loving French Bulldogs to provide to loving, forever family homes around the country. Hi and welcome to our website from the team at Blue Frenchies UK. We are located in Lancashire, less than 10 miles outside of Manchester city centre. We specialise in breeding beautiful, champion, healthy French Bulldogs and we offer a nationwide UK doorstep delivery service as standard. Some 14 months after our beloved family dog of 10 years sadly passed away, we encountered a French Bulldog out on a walk and instantly fell in love. After months of in-depth research and preparation we decided we were ready to resume breeding and carefully found our first French Bulldog, Skyler. We welcomed our first litter in April and with a reputation quickly building, our puppies are in huge demand. Our puppies are brought up in a busy family home, around other dogs and plenty of family including children and friends. Our dogs are our pets and receive the upmost love and attention every day of the year and are constantly the stars of the show whether we have guests at home or are out on walks. Our dogs live inside, year round. When breeding, we go the extra mile to ensure that from as early as insemination, all the way until the day our puppies leave to their new forever homes, it is the most relaxed, comfortable and clean experience for our dogs and puppies. We hope you enjoy our website and find everything helpful. If you have any questions, click the contact us link at the top of any page. Get in touch for more information. Rearing any puppy takes a lot of preparation, time and patience. But Frenchies in particular have a well-earned reputation for not being the easiest or cheapest of dog breeds. Remember that getting a puppy is just like adding a new member to the family and they need a lot of attention through every step of their growth. This extensive guide on how to take care of your French bulldog puppies has been put together to help you raise your snub-nosed little darling into the best Frenchie around. Other than that, get ready to sit at your computer and do some research. Always Do Your Research Well, you made it onto this article, so congrats on a good start! Look up who your breeder is before you meet them. Do they have any credentials that make them reputable, are they a trustworthy person? Whoever is selling you the pooch, they need to be knowledgeable on their breed. Check that the puppies still in their care are happy and healthy, and that there is no history of birth defects in the family. Most importantly, if you feel something is off, walk away from the deal. Questions to ask would be if the parents have had health checks recently, how many litters the mother has had this should be once a year at the most , and whether the puppy and mother have been checked over by a vet. Other things to watch out for or to be wary of is if the price of the puppies is abnormally low. You should always be able to see the mother before purchasing as a healthy mother is reflective of a healthy pup This can also help you gage what your dog is going to grow up to look like! When looking at the puppy, check to see if the puppy has back problems, or motor problems. Buying a puppy is essentially a life-long commitment, and you want to be completely sure about it before diving in. This will give you that added safety net when buying from a breeder. They also have lots of information on all types of breeds and necessities for buying a new pup to help you make the right decisions along the way. Puppy-Proofing Your Home Another essential activity is ensuring your home has been adequately puppy-proofed. French Bulldog puppies are naturally inquisitive, and love to sniff about a new environment before they get settled. A good way to avoid any nasty surprises is to round out the particularly sharp edges of your home with foam until your pup has gotten more used to its surroundings. Another puppy-proofing aspect you might want to consider is doing a once-over with the vacuum cleaner before bringing your puppy home. This is to ensure that any small objects like paper clips or coins that might be under chairs and tables get swept up before your new puppy has a chance to swallow them And trust me, they will if you give them the chance. If your French bulldog manages to swallow any toxic or sharp materials it could be harmful to their health and even lead to serious injuries. When cleaning, also think about extension cords and wires that run along the ground. Other items to watch out for would be plants, cooking utensils, drug cabinets, and food. Important foods to keep your pup away from are chocolate, spinach and tomatoes, which have been found to make dogs sick. Keeping your house clean is a very simple method of keeping your puppy happy, healthy and safe. The First Day Upon entering their new home, your puppy will need some time to get used to their new environment, a process which can take up to a few days. They will most likely do a lot of exploring during this time and become exhausted easily from being overwhelmed by all the new smells. To help your puppy feel welcome in their new home, give them a place where they can retreat to and rest. Pick an area in which your pup has a good visual on the entire room. An area of the house such as the living room or the kitchen might be a good bet since people come and go from their frequently. Make sure your puppy feels involved with the family, even when its resting, but try not to disturb them when they are trying to take a nap. This can make your puppy associate their space with negative feelings and you may find that they become reluctant to go there for peace and quiet. Immediately enforce where your puppy can go and not go in the house and be consistent. The First Night It is common that during the first night in their new home, your French Bulldog puppy will cry. A new environment can make your puppy nervous, especially at night, it can be easy for your puppy to think that they are alone. To prevent this, you can put your puppy in a crate with warm blankets to help them feel safe, or you can let them sleep with you in your bed for the first few nights but be very careful when sleeping with small pups. They might be adventurous, but they are more fragile than you think! After a few days, when your puppy has become more familiar with their new surroundings, you can rearrange his sleeping habits to a dog bed. Talk to your puppy quietly when they cry to let them know that they are not alone. If your puppy is still restless during the night, it might be because they have to pee. Let them do their business, give him a reward if he does it right, and put him back to bed. The quicker you can get your dog to fall asleep for a whole night the better, as it will inspire a good routine. If you find that your puppy is destroying the furniture and is extremely restless at night, try playing with them until they tire themselves out and fall asleep. Food Bowls When purchasing food bowls for a puppy, you want to go for one that fits their size. Just think about it — Frenchie puppies are no taller than the top of your ankle, and will grow to about half way up your calf — they really never get to be that big. Make sure your food and water bowls are small enough that there is no risk of them accidently falling into them. Additionally, getting a stainless-steel food bowl is most preferable as you will need to clean it out every day. However, plastic and ceramic bowls can work just as well. Plastic baskets are sturdier but can also get chewed once your puppy is going through its teething phase and beyond. A good recommendation is a soft bed. Check to see if your Frenchie is breathing unsteadily, whether it snorts excessively or gets warn out easily before you decide on a collar. Most importantly, make sure the collar you pick is a good fit. Too tight and your Frenchie will have trouble breathing, but too loose and they might find an opportunity to wriggle out of it. In fact, you might find that most dogs find a harness to be much more comfortable, as their weight is distributed more evenly around their torso, as opposed to having a single strip across their neck. When picking a leash, again, make sure it is light weight for maximum comfort. Chew Toys and Games Many new dog owners make the mistake of thinking that chewing is a bad habit for a puppy that needs to be corrected. A lot of the time, new pups will try and chew anything they can get their hands on. Furniture, slippers, old toys your kids might leave around the house, anything! Try not to let your dog get their hands on objects that can potentially harm them. Plastic toys and bottles have the potential to break into smaller and sharper pieces which can be harmful if swallowed. Toys that stretch and are made of softer, gummy or rubbery materials are best. Just like babies, French bulldog pups need toys and games to keep them entertained. Everything Medical Toys and home comforts are all well and good, but how do you protect your new puppy from other dangers, like disease and infections? French Bulldogs are notorious for having genetic health problems and other issues that can occur throughout their lives. Practicing good medical care is not only good for your new Frenchie, but for your entire household. Many infections and diseases that affect dogs can quickly spread to children and adults if left to thrive for too long. Practicing good household cleanliness and frequent check-ups with the vet can easily solve many problems that occur within your pooch. Find a Vet! The best way to confirm that your new puppy is fit, happy and healthy is to take them to the vet as soon as you bring them home. This will let you know that they have no underlying health concerns and is also a great way to get your Frenchie used to vet visits without developing any negativity towards their environment. You might find that for the first few days your Frenchie will exhibit signs of being sick, such as wanting to be on their own, diarrhoea, and shy behaviour. This might be a normal reaction for your pup when being placed in a new environment. All pups react differently when being moved around, some with more severe reactions that other. If not, take them to the vet to get checked out. Vaccinations Ask your breeder if your puppy has had all the relevant vaccinations. Your puppy should be vaccinated by the breeder before purchase. If not, walk away from the deal as this should be handled before the puppies go on sale. If you have any concerns or questions about vaccinations, consult your veterinarian. When travelling with your Frenchie overseas make sure they have all the recommended vaccinations for that country. Ticks and Fleas One of the worse parts about taking your Frenchie out for a walk is getting home and realising that they somehow picked up some blood sucking creatures along the way. Most likely, they walked through some bramble or burdock and the bugs decided to hitch a ride. Fleas can cause a range of reactions depending on the dog. For some they can break out in red marks but not feel irritated. For others, flea bites can cause allergic reactions which will have your dog breaking out in irritable bumps and welts depending on the severity, which will cause your dog to nip and scratch and bite themselves for relief. There are also cases of fleas transmitting more severe ailments such as tapeworms. If your dog exhibits itchiness, irritableness, or is throwing up their food a lot, take them to the vet to get checked out immediately. Other methods include flea belts, sprays and powders. Also remember to use a spray on your home surfaces and carpets to kills any eggs and larvae that might be hanging around. Seek further advice from your vet on other potential methods for tick and flea prevention. Ticks are most commonly contracted when taking walks in dense woodland areas. They are parasites that dogs can fall victim too when walking through low bush lines and long grass. They can appear as small grey dots on your dog but can grow to ten times their original size when they are filled with blood. Ticks not only cause discomfort and irritation but can also spread diseases such as Lyme disease. To prevent ticks from getting out of hand, check your pup regularly by searching their fur for black spots. Always check them after coming home from a walk, especially in the summer and in woodland areas. If ticks are contracted, a simple method of getting rid of them is to use a pair of tweezers. Grip the tick as close to the skin as you can and twist them out. The twisting action can help ensure that none of the tick gets left behind in the process as this can also cause infection. Worms If you notice your dog throwing up its food and losing its appetite, it may have worms. Worms can be extremely tricky for new pups as it has the potential to make them very weak and sick. They may have contracted a worm by sniffing around and eating off of a dirty surface, like a bin, or around a drain. Be sure to get an agent that works against both roundworm and tapeworm to cover all bases, and always consult your vet for more information on how to safely care for your Frenchie before and after the deworming process. Reverse Sneezing Sometimes when your Frenchie pup becomes excited, they might make an uncontrollable wheezing sound, like a snort mixed with patchy, quick intakes of breath. This has been referred to as reverse sneezing and can go on for minutes at a time. It is simply due to the shape of their snout. This sound is common in similar dog breeds as well, such as pugs. Watery Eyes French Bulldogs are prone to having watery eyes which can be an unattractive feature and can also quickly cause in infection if left unmanaged. As soon as you see your Frenchie starting to get a little weepy, wipe their eyes cleaning. Regularly wiping their eyes clean with a soft tissue will help defend against eye infections and keep them looking bright. Skills, Training and Behaviour A puppy needs much more attention than a fully grown dog, and that goes doubly so for a Frenchie! Spend a lot of time with them, particularly during the first few days so that they can get used to you, ensure your pup is supervised all day, and encourage their good behaviour with positive reinforcement. It is advisable to start training as quickly as possible around 10 weeks old is a good place to start. Potty Training Teaching your dog not to do their business in the wrong place can take some patience and a lot of supervision. When it comes to training of any sort, it is better to start young to encourage good habits that they can take with them into adulthood. They definitely have the capability to pick up commands and practice good habits with a little guidance. A good potty training method would be to take your pup outside immediately after a meal. Taking your puppy out straight away will cement the idea that this is where they should be if they need to go. After a successful session, give them a treat to encourage good behaviour. Taking immediate action with treats and discipline is always the best course. Being in a new environment is stressful for a pup, be sure that everyone in the household understands to be gentle and quiet for the first few days so the new member of the family can learn the ropes and get to grips with its environment. Stay constantly by their side for the first few days to help them feel safe and become used to your company. Once your Frenchie has become more used to being at home, start taking them out for walks around the neighbourhood. Walks can relieve puppy anxiety and help them get to know their surrounding area better. It is advisable to find your nearest dog park to let your pup get used to other dogs as well. Heavy supervision is advised at the dog park, in case any bigger dogs get a bit too playful with you puppy. This can help stave off aggression that dogs can have when meeting other dogs later in life. This is especially true when they get older and begin to lose the ability to hear and see well. But as a puppy, it is important that they understand that some space and separation is not going to kill them! Try building up to a separation with small exercises. Wait five minutes, and return. Repeat this exercise, extending the time each time until you get to about fifteen minutes. Eventually you should be able to venture outside alone without much trouble. Never return to your dog when they start barking for your attention because they will learn that this is a valid way to get you to return to them. Wait for a few minutes after they have finished barking, then return. Commands and rules that you set for your puppy should follow on into adulthood. Remember to show your Frenchie that you are the one who is control of a situation. Doing quick and easy supplement exercises can really help control this behaviour. And always remember that these things come with time and patience! Everything will come together eventually! Growling, Barking, and Aggression Puppies can growl for a variety of reasons. When they are teething, when they are bored, scared, energised, annoyed. Spending time with your puppy will help you better gage their mood and in turn, help you better meet their needs. Make sure your house is stocked with toys for when your puppy is teething. If you see your puppy growling at other items in the house, immediately take the item away and give them one of their own toys. To help encourage them to stop growling at other objects, give them a treat immediately after accepting the toy. French Bulldogs commonly bark when there are guests and visitors. They are very cautious by nature and you may find that they frequently bark at strange sounds and are very alert and active if strangers come by. Try keeping them preoccupied with a chew toy when this happens. Aggression, on the other hand, is not to be tolerated under any circumstances. If you find your dog biting, whether its during play time or when they are frustrated or scared, you need to act quickly and set down a zero-tolerance environment. There may be a number of contributing factors as to why your dog is biting — their perception of their ranking in the household, the rowdiness of its immediate environment, or where your Frenchie is sleeping and eating. A French Bulldog has many folds in their skin, which means there are lots of nooks and crannies where dirt can get trapped. If these folds are not cleaned regularly they can easily develop an infection. Try using wet baby wipes or moist towels to achieve this. Alcohol-free baby wipes are meant for sensitive skin which many French Bulldogs have, especially as pups! Ears A part of the French Bulldog that usually gets missed out on the cleaning list, but should never be overlooked is their ears. Clean their ears once a week with ear ointment, and afterwards gently massage the outer ear for comfort. Most dogs dislike having their ears cleaned out and will have to get lots of cuddles later for how brave they were. Tail French Bulldogs have what is known as a tail pocket, which is basically a name for a stubby tail with a slight invert. Either way, it is an area on the French Bulldog that is prone to infection. To stop the spread of bad germs and infections in that area. Baths There are contrasting opinions out there on how often a Frenchie should bathe. Some believe bathing for Frenchies is an absolute must and should be done as regularly as once a week, while others believe that as little as two or three times a year will suffice in keeping them clean. I would say around for times a year will be enough. For bathing use lukewarm water and make sure that there is no draft. Just make sure his entire body is soaked, use a minimal amount of shampoo, and massage into their coat gently. Soap that is left on too long can eventually become irritating. Be very selective about the shampoo you eventually decide to use, and never use shampoo that is meant for humans on your dog, not even baby shampoo. Try doing some research and consulting your veterinarian on what could be a good for your pooch. Use a towel to dry your French bulldog, and then use a blow dryer on a low heat setting to finish the job. Grooming French Bulldogs are by no means the most stress free or easiest dogs to own. They only have two shedding cycles per year that you need to be ready for. However, they do still require scheduled grooming and if you maintain steady grooming, they will shed much less during these periods. Then, brush again within the direction of the fur to catch the loose hairs in the brush. Commonly forgotten areas are the tails, hind legs and stomach. Make sure you get into all of those tricky places to reduce the amount your Frenchie sheds over time. Once a week is a sufficient amount of grooming time and a fantastic bonding experience for you and your pooch. It is better to brush short hair dogs with a rubber brush as a regular hairbrush would be overkill for the length of hair. A great way to groom a Frenchie — with all its nook and crannies — is with a grooming glove. Grooming gloves can also be washed after use and are quick and easy to store away. Cut their nails with a sturdy pair of nail clippers that can produce the smoothest cut as possible. Seek advice from your veterinarian. Monitor this area of your Frenchie to check whether the hair is growing longer than the rest of the coat. If your French Bulldog feels any irritation after applying this then wash it off immediately. French Bulldogs are not built for cold weather. Exercise and Nutrition French Bulldogs can be lazy but need exercise just like any other dog! This will help your Frenchie stay fit an in shape. Scheduling Food for a Pup Puppies need to eat more than adult dogs so that they can grow up to be big and strong. When your puppy is under four months old, they will need to eat three times a day. Think of it as breakfast, lunch, and dinner for a dog. Water should be given with every meal, and again in the evening before bed. After this period, you should be upgrading your dogs food from puppy to adult. They will only need two meals a day from this point on, one in the morning and one at night. Digestion slows and so does metabolism. Do not feed them meals unnecessarily as this can lead to your Frenchie becoming overweight. If they get hungry throughout the day, a healthy snack can be a fantastic substitute space filler. Puppy Food The most important thing to remember when buying the right dog food for your Frenchie pup is to make sure all the necessary nutrients are included and are well balanced. Dog food itself is a conducted through extensive scientific research to see what works well for which breeds. Every dog is different, and they all have different tastes. You might find that the kibble from the local store is just not settling well with your Frenchie, even though the retriever next door loves the stuff. If your puppy is a picky eater, it might take some time to settle on a dog food that they really like. To start, ask your breeder what dog food they used and go from there. If your dog experiences any vomiting or diarrhoea after eating take them to the vet straight away. Puppies can eat puppy dog food until about six months. Raw Food Diets There has been much debate over what diets are best for a pup. This is a high protein and low carbohydrate diet that focuses solely on raw meats and fresh greens. It is seen as a very healthy choice for a French Bulldog, who have the potential to gain fat very quickly and also has the added bonus of allowing the owner tailor meals for their pooch. Alternatively, there are many canned foods and dry foods online that also included raw ingredients. Humans and dogs have very different digestive systems and require completely different diets in order to stay healthy. This means no cooked food that you were going to serve on the table, no foods that are high in salt and sugars. Absolutely, un no circumstances should you be feeding your dog sweets and chocolate. Chocolate, when taken in large doses is toxic to a pooch. If you want to treat for any reason, try low sugar dog biscuits as healthy option. This can also be good for your dogs teeth as they will have to crunch through the biscuit to get their reward, strengthening their jaw. Along with sweets, raw pork is a no-go. Obesity French Bulldogs are big eaters with hearty appetites. In other words, they just love food! With little exercise, your Frenchie will quickly become obese. Exercise your Frenchie regularly, and get them excited about walks. But walking is important for any breed of dog. If you have a garden or lawn, let them run around outside in it daily, and play with your dog daily to keep them active. Not only can this lead to them gaining weight quickly, but it can eventually lead to nutritional deficiencies, matted fur and problem with their teeth. Some owners fall into the trap of thinking that their dog needs some variation in their diet like humans, and end up adding extra bits from meals, such as boiled vegetables and scraps of chicken, or gravy. Dog food is created so it has all the nutritional benefits a dog will ever need in there diet, and they therefore do not need the same variation. FAQs Some frequently asked questions that might not have been covered in the article. Or for those who want a hasty answer to a burning question about their French Bull dog pup! Should I buy a male or a female French Bulldog? You can have a happy home with either sex. But ultimately, it is thought that male Frenchies are a bit more energetic than the females. Is it better to buy two French Bulldogs? It is dependent on what your family can manage and how realistic it is for you to care for two animals. So yes, having a companion will make them very happy, but not if it puts a strain on the entire household. If you are thinking of buy two pooches, it can be a fantastic blessing to your French Bulldogs mental and physical health. They can play together, exercise each other and be left unsupervised for longer periods of time if they are distracted by one another. Households with multiple pets have been known to suffer less from problems such as separation anxiety as well. How old should my French Bulldog puppy be when I buy them? The moment a puppy leaves their mother is an extremely important one to consider. Responsible breeders will not sell puppies that are still blatantly attached to their mothers and will definitely not sell a puppy before they are at least 8 weeks old. The overall consensus is to not buy a French Bulldog puppy that is younger than 8 weeks. How can I recognise that my breeder is scamming me? In recent times there has been a rapid increase in puppy buying, which also means a steady rise in scams. Scams can quickly turn tragic in the breeding world with puppies having birth defects and serious health concerns due to underlying conditions that should have been checked over early. Scammers will usually trick you out of your money by pulling on your heartstrings for puppies that are either already sick, mistreated or, in some cases, completely fictional. Is there poor grammar? Have they taken time to present you with images of their puppies? Scammer want to create a sense of urgency to push people into buying. Also, google the website to see if you can find any reviews, reputable breeders will have ratings and reviews from respectable sources. If the breeder asks to pay by bank transfer, it is probably a bad sign and you should walk away from the deal. What do I look for to check if my puppy is healthy before purchasing? When purchasing a new Frenchie puppy, you should be on a particular look out for the following: Deafness, problems with their hips, problems with their back, cherry eye enflamed and bloodshot tear ducts , respiratory problems and difficulty breathing, heat stress and problems regulating temperature, and an elongated soft palate. Are French Bulldog Puppies easy to potty train? Please keep in mind that this list is in no particular order, and that all the breeders that have been chosen for this list are equally reliable and have good references and testimonials. They are one of the most reputable and trustworthy dog breeders in the UK, with over twenty-five years worth of experience in breeding and raising top-notch purebred champion French Bulldogs. Blue Frenchies UK is a family-owned breeder whose pups are always raised in-home instead of in an outdoor kennel. They make sure to go the extra mile to ensure that their puppies are taken care of from the moment of birth until the point of going to their forever homes. Their top-of-the-line facilities are equipped with an indoor whelping room, with waterproof flooring and walls that are coated with heat-retaining paint. Before a litter is born, they make sure to disinfect the whelping room in order to ensure that the puppies are born in a clean environment. In addition to having clean facilities, before deciding which stud dog they use to parent a planned litter, they make sure that all dogs are free of any hereditary health problems. Of course, they meet all the criteria in order to be deemed a reputable and trustworthy French Bulldog breeder since they are licensed, inspected, perform all the mandatory vaccinations, dewormings, microchipping, proper socialization, and much, much more. If you decide to buy one of their Frenchies, it will arrive at the Kennel Club registered and hand-delivered to your doorstep. Check out their website for more information about currently available French Bulldog puppies. Blue Frenchies UK Details. Ideally they need owners around all day. Common health problems in French Bulldogs French Bulldogs are playful and fun-loving dogs who love spending time with their owners. Sadly, like so many other purebred dogs, they are at risk of certain conditions relating to their breed. If you are thinking of buying a French Bulldog puppy , make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by certain conditions. Frenchies are a flat-faced breed, which can often cause breathing problems and means they overheat quickly especially when they exercise in warmer weather. Some of the conditions Frenchies may develop include: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS — this can cause severe breathing problems and is caused by their shorter faces. Parents should be screened before breeding. Luxating patellas — where the kneecaps slipping temporarily out of place. Dental problems — shorter faced dogs often have crowded teeth with can cause dental problems. A range of eye problems, including cataracts there is screening for this. Back problems such as Intervertebral disc disease — where the discs that provide cushioning between the vertebrae back bones bulge or burst, pressing on nerves in the spine. Skin conditions — particularly skin fold dermatitis where the skin in their wrinkles gets inflamed and sore or even infected. Hyperuricosuria — a condition where stones or crystals can form in urine causing infections, difficulty passing urine or blood in urine. If you want to minimise the risk of your dog getting problems due to exaggerated features, you can read our advice on choosing a pedigree dog. Caring for your French Bulldog Frenchies are loving dogs, known for being quite laid-back and happy to fit in with family life. French Bulldogs can be lower maintenance because they tend to prefer shorter walks, but they definitely have huge characters and personalities and will do anything for a bit of fuss and attention! French Bulldogs and barking As with any breed, your Frenchie is likely to make noise. How much they make is completely down to the individual, their training and personality. Training and socialisation French Bulldogs are eager to please their owners which can make them easy to train, but are also known to be strong-willed at times. They are a sensitive breed, so respond best to positive, reward-based training which needs to be started from an early age. This will help them grow into confident adults and help their laid-back nature shine through. They thrive off company and so could develop separation anxiety if left alone. Exercise Although Frenchies are thought to be less high maintenance than some breeds when it comes to exercise, they still love to keep busy and exercising is a huge part of that. Your French Bulldog will need up to an hour of exercise every day. This should be split into a few shorter walks, with time to play off-lead in a secure area and have a good sniff around. As a flat-faced breed, French Bulldogs can overheat and struggle to breathe really quickly, especially in warmer weather. Make sure you can recognise the signs of heatstroke in your dog. Early mornings and later in the evenings would be better times to go for a walk in the summer. Due to the extra rolls of skin around their face, French Bulldogs are at risk of developing something called skin fold dermatitis. You can clean them with damp cotton wool pads but always make sure to dry them thoroughly after. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate French Bulldogs and children Frenchies are known for being pretty laid back and adaptable, so they tend to get along well with children of all ages which makes them popular family pets. Always supervise your dog with children and vulnerable adults. French Bulldogs do have a high prey drive. If they have grown up with a cat in the home, they will be fine with that cat but are likely to chase unfamiliar cats and smaller pets. You should always supervise your dog with family pets and introduce them slowly from a young age. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your Frenchie should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. Flat-faced breeds such as Frenchies can suffer from reflux or struggle to swallow their food. Speak to your vet for more information about how to manage this at home. Try to feed your dog at similar times every day as they like routine. Remember to leave a gap between eating and exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. PDSA Pet Insurance Fun facts An early version of the breed were used by lace makers in the UK shortly before the industrial revolution to warm their laps while they worked. French Bulldogs are known for their big, bat-like ears. They are lovable dogs who fit easily into family life, but come with a lot of extra responsibility and potentially higher healthcare costs. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a French Bulldog. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in French Bulldogs are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. Share this: Facebook Twitter Email A small dog with lots of love to share, the French bulldog is becoming one of the most favourite breeds in the UK. Are you looking forward to welcoming a Frenchie into the family? Before you go searching for one, it is imperative to know how much are French bulldogs as they can be highly expensive. How much are French bulldog puppies? The price varies depends on many factors. The price tag for a Frenchie puppy can be quite steep. The expensiveness of the breed is partly due to how costly it is to produce and raise them. Additionally, there are only a few French bulldog breeders whilst there are many dog lovers who want one. These factors drive the prices even higher. How much is a French bulldog C-section? For emergency C-sections carried out outside regular working hours, it may cost 80 per cent more than a scheduled C-section. How many litters can a French bulldog have? The French bulldog should only have four litters overall. Be sure to ask the breeder how many litters the dam has produced before buying a French bulldog puppy. If it is more than four, it is highly likely that you are buying from an irresponsible breeder. How many puppies does a French Bulldog have? On average, the number of puppies that a French bulldog can have is three. On some occasions, there may be four puppies in total. Birthing five or more puppies is a very rare occurrence. Where should I look for a French bulldog puppy? Searching for a reputable French bulldog breeder is very important. Since the breed is high in demand but also lack in supply, shady people tend to take advantage of the situation. Some businesses such as backyard breeders and puppy mills will irresponsibly breed French bulldogs. Meanwhile, others will resort to puppy smuggling. Puppies from these trade are lowly priced but have several drawbacks, such as being sickly or aggressive to people. To find a trustworthy breeder, you may ask for referrals from the vet, the groomer, or other dog enthusiasts. You can also try visiting local breeding organisations and dog shows. UK Pets allows you to search based on your location. For example, French Bulldogs for sale in London. Reputable breeders are meticulous when it comes to producing and raising dogs to ensure that they are of the best quality. They willingly show you where the puppies are kept. They provide you with a Kennel Club registration certificate. They ask pertinent questions about your experience as a dog owner. What makes French bulldogs very expensive? Aside from the supply and demand and high charges for breeding and looking after French bulldogs, there are other factors that affect the cost of the breed. Many times, this is because of their show quality. They may possess rare physical traits that make them highly valued. Responsible breeders always ensure that all their puppies are healthy and well-socialised. French bulldogs that are primarily bred to be companion dogs are just more affordable than those that are bred for show. Are there other alternatives where I can find a French bulldog puppy? It is a lot cheaper than purchasing from a breeder. Most establishments will only charge a couple of hundred pounds. Meanwhile, others give their dogs for free and only ask for donations. These places are worth visiting if you opt to adopt a Frenchie: French bulldog rescue organisations Rehoming centres Animal shelters Keep in mind that all dogs found in these places may vary in temperament and behaviour. The French bulldog is prone to certain illnesses since it is a brachycephalic or flat-faced breed. Being knowledgeable about the common issues found in French bulldogs will help you detect early signs of illnesses. Below is a list of the health issues that a French bulldog is susceptible to: Hip dysplasia. Keep on reading to learn everything about French Bulldog puppies! French bulldogs All you need to know about Frenchies: a short summary History in a nutshell French Bulldogs were first bred as a smaller version of the English Bulldog in the 19th-century England. They were particularly popular among lacemakers in Nottinghamshire, who initially kept them to chase rats but soon fell in love with their small size and calm, friendly nature. After the Industrial Revolution, they had to move to southern France where lacemaking was still done by hand and took their dogs with them. Frenchies soon got popular in the circles of French artists, actors, writers in Paris as well as rich Americans visiting the city. In fact, they loved Frenchies so much that they took them to the US, where they finally got recognized by the AKC in .Frenchie Characteristics French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds thanks to their fun, adaptable, friendly nature and distinctive look. You can easily recognize them by their flat, heavily wrinkled faces and large, erect bat ears, which make them absolutely adorable. Despite having the strong, muscular body of a bulldog Frenchies are small in size: adult males usually weigh 20 to 28 pounds while females are 16 to 24 pounds. Frenchie Colors Frenchies come in a wide variety of different colors and patterns. There are standard French Bulldog colors like black, fawn, cream and patterns like pied and brindle, which are considered common for the breed. Rare and unique colors like blue and lilac, as well as patterns like tan and merle have gained more popularity in recent years. Frenchie Personality French Bulldogs probably have the biggest personality among all the dog breeds. They are funny, friendly and insanely affectionate, making them the perfect companions for anyone. They are also highly intelligent and need a fair amount of mental stimulation. Frenchies are like small children: simply irresistible! Giving only high- quality food, ensuring regular training and exercise, finding a good vet and not exposing them to too much heat is also essential to provide a long and happy life for your French Bulldog. They are little clowns who always do something silly to make you laugh! They are amazing companions who get along with everyone in the family from small kids to older people, other dog breeds and even cats. Shall we go on?! The exact amount usually depends on various factors like the color, gender and age of a puppy as well as the breeder you get your puppy from. Breeding Frenchies requires a lot of time, effort, care and money, so those who are dedicated to only having high-quality and healthy French Bulldog puppies will ask a larger sum starting from 4, USD. Colors and patterns considered common for the breed like black brindle and fawn have the lowest prices ranging from 4, to 5, USD, while blue, lilac and merle which are more unique and harder to produce come at a higher price as well ranging from 6, to 8, USD. Isabella and fluffy Frenchies are the rarest, most valuable and most expensive from 8, to 30, USD. When it comes to age and gender, younger female Frenchies usually cost a couple of hundreds more than older male puppies. What's included in the price?

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King Shepherds will worm their way into your heart with their winning ways. They are extremely loving and steadfastly loyal, as we mentioned earlier. King Shepherds are hard workers which comes from their shepherd instinct. They are eager to please and are quick to grasp what you want them to do. Are King Shepherds child-friendly? Do you want your kids to have memorable experiences with a cherished family pet? King Shepherds are playful and exuberant, yet they are still incredibly gentle with kids. They are also loyal and protective of their little buddies. King Shepherds have a playful, social side around other household pets. They are gentle even though they are large. Cats and other dogs are treated kindly by this giant. What more could you ask for as a guardian of the family? This is not an apartment or condo-sized pet. King Shepherds tend to fill even modest house space. So having a big backyard or a nearby park is a must. They will keep you on your toes, as they get bored quickly and thrive on a genuine challenge. If you look forward to coming home after a busy workday and just chilling out, then forget owning a King Shepherd. These dogs love strenuous exercise and movement. Get ready for long fast walks, jogs or bicycle rides where your King Shepherd can run alongside you. This dog possesses boundless energy. They will run about, jump up, leave muddy paw prints and knock things off shelves and tables with their tails. Under-exercised King Shepherds become bored and look for ways to burn off that energy. If they are not kept busy and exercised, their health and your well-ordered home will suffer the consequences. King Shepherds demand a fair amount of grooming. The bonding that takes place during grooming is an excellent experience for both of you. Daily vacuuming of shed and brushed hair and frequent mopping of paw prints is a reality — but worth the effort in my mind. There are some essential things you should know about feeding your King Shepherd. The dog food you buy for him should not contain artificial ingredients so ask your breeder or your vet for a good brand that they recommend or refer to our feeding guide for German Shepherd A typical serving for your adult dog is three or four cups of dry dog food per day. Divide this into at least two meals. Check with your veterinarian during regular check-ups to see if your King Shepherd in a good weight. We know by now that this is a super smart canine, but despite this, initial training will require a lot of patience, consistency, and persistence, as is with any other dog. However, as King Shepherds are so eager to please you, training will be really fun and your new canine companion will get the hang of it pretty quickly. Once trained, your King Shepherd retains the lessons taught. As long as you also remember and implement what you learned in obedience classes, then you are in for years of loyal companionship. Follow the training progress of this five-and-a-half-month-old King Shepherd 11 Need a Watchdog? This is one of the primary reasons dog owners cite for buying a King Shepherd. They are outstanding watchdogs. He can be counted on to bark if an intruder or a stranger tries to enter your home or accosts you. King Shepherds are courageous and formidable in appearance. But it pays to be informed. Because your King Shepherd is a crossbreed, they may have health problems associated with both of his parents. The good news is that hybrids like King Shepherds have what vets call hybrid vigor. This means they can be delightfully hardy and healthy. They may also inherit allergies and eye diseases, degenerative myelopathy, pancreatic problems and thrombopathia. In the market for a King Shepherd puppy? King Shepherd litters are usually between six and ten King Shepherd puppies. Backyard breeders are people with one or two dogs who breed as a sideline. Their dogs may be well treated but not necessarily looked after medically. On the other hand, puppy mill owners have one thing in mind — making money at all costs. They breed as many dogs as fast as they can and often under abysmal conditions. Inbreeding is rampant, and puppies often have genetic disorders. The American Kennel Club has suggestions for puppy shopping Find a knowledgeable breeder. Make sure you like the way he raises his dogs. Meet at least one of the puppy parents. This is a good indicator of appearance, size, and temperament of your future dog. Check to see if the kennel is clean. Does it look and smell nice? The puppies should look clean, well fed, well groomed, healthy and energetic. How does the breeder interact with the puppies? Does he care about his dogs and their future owners? Find out what has been done to protect your puppy from diseases. Ask for proof of health screenings and certificates. Get to know the breeder. He can be an excellent mentor and resource for you in the future. Good breeders care about the future of their puppies and are happy to provide support. If a breeder is rushing puppies out the door to make way for a new litter, you should beware. They need forever homes. Why not check out the All Shepherd Rescue website. Some of these rescue dogs may have abandonment issues. Some may have health problems due to lack of exercise, improper diet, or lack of medical care. You can turn his life around by offering him a forever home. If a King Shepherd is your wish, be patient and let local shelters know what you want. The next cost is making sure your new family member is healthy. You need to do an initial medical exam which is a brilliant investment. You want to prevent health problems down the road, and you want to ensure your puppy is in excellent health. Some breeders and most animal shelters do this as part of the adoption process. A post shared by Joey Senft jsenftphotography There are varying reports about the exact history of the King Shepherd. According to the International Shiloh Shepherd Alliance , the King Shepherd began as a Shiloh Shepherd and splintered away when a breeder had a different vision for her dogs. The American King Shepherd Club is less specific. They do not mention the Shiloh as part of their breeding program, nor do they specifically mention the Great Pyrenees or Akitas. They report that the King Shepherd was founded by mixing German Shepherds with flock guardians and then breeding them back to Old German Shepherds from Europe. Either way, it seems evident that the origins of the King Shepherd are entwined with the Shiloh Shepherd. The Shiloh Shepherd began as a breed by Tina Barber, who had grown frustrated with the health and temperament issues in some German Shepherd lines. The King Shepherd split from the Shiloh Shepherd lines when David Turkheimer and Shelly Watts-Cross developed their own vision for the breed and wanted more of a working dog. So today, both breeds have their own association and breed standard. The King Shepherd is significantly larger than the German Shepherd. It also only has two coat types, straight and rough, or long and silky. On the other hand, the German Shepherd can have plush, double, or long-haired. There is also a difference in temperament. King Shepherds are bred to be stable and reliable dogs, but they may also be more independent and have a stubborn streak. Meanwhile, the German Shepherd is generally a highly trainable dog, provided it comes from good lines. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. What are the Physical Features of the King Shepherd? Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. King Shepherds are prone to weight gain. Choose a high quality food and stick to a feeding schedule. Make sure your dog gets at least 60 to 90 minutes of walking or hiking per day, which will help keep them fit. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. One of the toughest jobs when caring for any animal is maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth a minimum of three times per week. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with one-inch jumps. King Shepherd Feeding An ideal King Shepherd diet should be formulated for a large-sized breed with moderate energy. Limit their amount of treats, as well. The main coat colors are fawn, red, black, brown, and sable. Their coats are usually a combination of two or more colors. They usually have medium-length, normal density coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing three times a week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended only as needed with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. See if a RoboVac is right for you! That double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. A gentle giant, they are patient and sweet with kids. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. King Shepherds are nice to strangers and can get along well with dogs and other household pets, including cats. Early socialization is an important factor for developing a social dog. King Shepherd Rescue Groups Because the King Shepherd is a somewhat rare hybrid dog breed, it may be difficult to find a breed specific rescue. However, you can always check with your local shelter, and you may want to try a rescue that caters to all kinds of dogs. You can take a look at the following:. Originating in the United States in the s, these dogs were originally bred to create a German shepherd mix that had fewer health issues than a purebred German shepherd. American breeders David Turkheimer and Shelley Watts-Cross first bred a German shepherd with a shiloh shepherd a hybrid of German shepherds and Alaskan malamutes to elevate the best qualities of the German shepherd. In order to achieve the long-haired look they wanted, the breeders also incorporated long-haired German shepherds from European lineages. These European lines didn't just give king shepherds their distinctive coats, but they also boosted genetic variation. This was essential to reduce the risk of genetic issues that have become common in longstanding lineages because of inbreeding. Because king shepherds are a relatively new breed—and still fairly rare among American families—they are not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club. Between their grooming and exercise requirements, king shepherds need lots of time, energy, and attention in order to thrive. Exercise King shepherds are a high-energy breed that needs extensive exercise. Strenuous activity for at least one hour per day is a must. These dogs thrive in active, single-family homes with lots of space to run, walk, explore, and play. Because they're also very intelligent, king shepherds benefit from exercise routines that incorporate mental stimulation. Playing games like fetch, tug-of-war, or hide and seek are great ways for owners to keep this breed entertained. These dogs also excel in canine sports like agility training. King shepherds can become bored very easily, so it's vital to keep them engaged—and exercised—to prevent them from becoming destructive. Grooming King shepherds have thick, double coats that shed heavily. Brushing your dog several times per week or even daily can help reduce shedding and keep their coat healthy, clean, and tangle-free. It is very important to have a dog vacuum when owning a king shepherd. When it comes to baths, the king shepherd only requires standard bathing every three to four months. Check your dog's ears and clean its teeth regularly to prevent infections. If your king shepherd is especially active, running and walking can help keep their nails worn down, but trimmings should be performed as necessary. Training King shepherds are highly intelligent dogs, making training relatively simple for owners that are consistent and engaging. Basic obedience lessons can start in puppyhood between eight and 16 weeks of age, while more involved training should continue through the dog's life. Because king shepherds are so eager to please their family members, they can learn simple commands fairly quickly. Begin socializing your dog when you first bring him or her home to ensure they stay friendly and well-mannered with strangers and other animals. Pixabay Common Health Problems While king shepherds are generally healthy dogs, they're still prone to certain health issues like most breeds. Responsible breeders will test parent dogs for inherited diseases to prevent passing problems on to puppies; however, this breed's genetic variation does offer additional protection against genetic disorders. The following are common conditions that king shepherds may experience: Elbow and Hip Dysplasia : This condition causes a malformation in your dog's joints as they grow, which can lead to pain, instability, or weakness. Dysplasia is especially common in large-breed dogs. Von Willebrand Disease : This genetic disorder affects the blood's ability to clot after injury. Hypothyroidism : Affecting the thyroid, this endocrine disease reduces your dog's metabolic rate, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems in the future. Your veterinarian may recommend preventative surgery to tack the stomach down. Eye issues : Specific to the breed issues include pannus, glaucoma, and corneal dystroph. Allergies : King Shepherds are at risk for skin allergies like canine atopic dermatitis. Bloat : Since this breed has a large gastrointestinal tract, they are at risk for gastric dilatation volvulus GDV , which is a life-threatening condition. Diet and Nutrition Feed your king shepherd a high-quality diet with plenty of protein. This breed typically eats between three and four cups of dry food per day, and it's important to split these portions into several smaller meals to help prevent bloat. Since king shepherds are also prone to joint problems, owners should be especially mindful of their dog's weight. Canine obesity or excessive weight gain can put added stress on your dog's joints. To create a meal plan with the proper nutrients and portions, talk to your veterinarian about the best diet based on your specific dog's age, weight, and activity level. Where to Adopt or Buy a King Shepherd Before adding a king shepherd to your family, ensure that your home, schedule, and lifestyle can accommodate this large, energetic breed. These dogs require considerable grooming and daily strenuous exercise. Since king shepherds are still a new dog breed, they're not as likely to be found in shelters as their German shepherd cousins. Visit your local shelter to meet similar dogs in need of forever homes. If you plan to purchase a king s puppy, it's essential to research responsible breeders that readily provide the litter's family medical history. Your breeder should also allow you to meet the litter's parents and see the conditions in which their dogs are kept. To start your search, check out these breeding clubs dedicated to King Shepherds:. The King shepherd breed has only been around since the s, which is recent compared to the lengthy history of the German shepherd. The pair is also trying to make the dogs larger. While David and Sally began working on the breed in the early s, the breed did not become officially recognized until .The breed became recognized because a King shepherd breeding club was established. King shepherds share many traits with German shepherds. Therefore, most King shepherds have a similar appearance to German shepherds. Still, there are some variations because King shepherds are a mixed breed. While their coats are similar, the biggest difference can be found in the size of the dogs. While German shepherds are large dogs, King shepherds are typically even larger and thicker. King shepherds were specifically bred this way to prevent some of the health issues that German shepherds face. What Size Is a King Shepherd? King shepherds are between 2. When standing on their back legs, King shepherds can be about as tall as the average human female. This makes King shepherds larger on average than German shepherds. King shepherds also have more mass on them. On average, they weigh between 90 and pounds. There is a lot of variation because of the potential mixed breeds used for breeding. King shepherds have medium-length coats. Their coats are soft to touch and pet, and feel snuggly against your body and hands. King shepherds can also have many color tones in their coats reds, browns, grays, and even black but they do shed often. For this reason, you have to maintain their coat to prevent health problems and discomfort. King shepherds are mellow dogs, but they can get excited, especially as a puppy. That said, King shepherds calm down as they grow older and only bark when provoked. Are King Shepherds Affectionate? King shepherds may be big dogs, but they feel like small dogs on the inside. This is why many King shepherds choose to lay on their owners and sleep in the same bed. King shepherds also love to play and get attention from their owners. King shepherds are good with kids for a few reasons. While they can be aggressive at times, King shepherds and toddlers can become best friends for life. King shepherds are social dogs. King shepherds get along with dogs, cats, and even some smaller pets. That said, we recommend introducing the animals at younger ages and giving them time to socialize. With King shepherds, this can take some patience and even training. Are King Shepherds Aggressive? King shepherds are not aggressive dogs. This is because of their calm temperament and low energy level compared to other breeds. When aggressive, though, King shepherds become dangerous because of their size and build. For this reason, we recommend training your King shepherd well and making sure you treat them appropriately just like you should with any dog! Do King Shepherds Bark a Lot? While King shepherds bark frequently during their puppy years, they grow out of this phase quickly. As they get older, King shepherds begin to bark less. Are King Shepherds Intelligent? King shepherds are intelligent dogs. Because of their intelligence, King shepherds are easy to train and be around. Are King Shepherds Easy to Train? King shepherds are easy to train for a few reasons. This helps them cruise through training with ease. We recommend against overloading them with commands, but you should begin training at a young age. King shepherds are also easy to potty train. Are King Shepherds Energetic? That said, they begin to grow mellow as they age. This occurs because of their calm temperament and larger size. Compared to small dogs that love to bark, King shepherds are quiet and lazy. Still, King shepherds love to play and have plenty of energy to use for outdoor activities. In fact, King shepherds are only mellow around the house. This is what makes them great dogs for first-time owners. King shepherds are not good apartment dogs unless you have a large apartment. Because King shepherds are larger and heavier than German shepherds, they need a lot of space and exercise. This makes King shepherds a bad fit for people who live in urban environments. Their size can also make it challenging for landlords to be okay with allowing you to have a pet on the property, especially if the dog frightens other tenants. Are King Shepherds Good Watchdogs? King shepherds are excellent watchdogs. While they are not aggressive towards their owners, unwanted guests can draw barks and growls out of King shepherds. This can alert owners to potential dangers and other issues. King shepherds can also serve as guard dogs if needed. King shepherds are great service dogs. The breed can be used in ways that German shepherds can be used, which makes them flexible. King shepherds can be used for police work, hunting, tracking, emotional support, therapy, and more. These dogs can also help people with disabilities that make it hard to walk or see things. How to Care for a King Shepherd? Caring for a King shepherd is similar to caring for a German shepherd. German shepherds have a mild temperament unless provoked and are easy to train. Therefore, King shepherds are easy to care for as long as you groom them, brush them, play with them, and provide them with the right food. King shepherds need to be groomed. While you can get away with grooming them less often if you brush them, not grooming a King shepherd leads to problems. This is because of their frequent shedding and soft coat. Without grooming, King shepherds become knotty, dirty, and even unhappy. Therefore, we recommend frequent brushing and grooming to keep your furry friend happy. Do King Shepherds Shed? King shepherds shed as much as German shepherds, which is a lot. There are also some seasons where King shepherds will shed more. You should also let guests know that loose hair will be around to prevent allergic reactions. With a King shepherd, having no hair around is almost impossible. What Should a King Shepherd Eat? While fats and carbs are helpful for King shepherds, carbs can make them hungrier throughout the day. In fact, we recommend replacing carbs with fats instead if possible. For the food, we recommend lean meats like chicken and fish alongside fiber-rich veggies. Many food brands are designed specifically for German shepherds and King shepherds. Remember, King shepherds are larger, so they require more food. King shepherds were bred to be resistant to health problems. While the breed is still a work in progress, King shepherds are less likely to suffer from the same ailments that German shepherds face. That said, the breeds do share some of the same health risks. The head is in good proportion to the body and moderately wide between the eyes. The forehead, seen from in front and in profile, is only slightly rounded, with or without a medial furrow which is moderately well defined. The cheeks are not too full, are moderately curved, when viewed from the top should be much in the form of a "V," and are well filled in under the eyes. The thick, firm ears are of medium size, moderately wide at the base, set on high and pointed; they are carried erect and slightly forward puppies up to the age of months, and sometimes older, do not carry their ears completely erect. The eyes are medium size and almond-shaped, set somewhat aslant and not protuberant, as nearly as possible matching the surrounding coat in shades of brown, and from very light to dark are acceptable. The chest is deep and broad. Thickly feathered, the tail reaches at least to the hocks. The tail is carried down and slightly curved; when excited or in movement, the dog raises the tail, which becomes more curved, without however, going beyond the vertical. It must not, moreover, lie on or curl up on the back. Docked tails are inadmissible. The paws are round and short with a well-closed, arched. The pads are very hard. The nails are short and strong, generally dark in color. Dewclaws are usually removed. The King Shepherd comes in a wide range of acceptable colors. These are as follows: sable brownish tan with brown or black markings, or grayish silver with black markings ; black saddle with tan, gold, cream, tan or silver markings. Strong, rich colors and pigments are highly preferred. Small white spots on the chest are acceptable. Pale, washed-out colors are serious faults. The undercoat is invariably little colored, except in black dogs. White, blue or liver-colored dogs or a dog with a nose that is not black are not accepted in the show ring. Puppies change color from birth until they get their final coat. There are two coat varieties: coarse-haired, which is straight and longhaired, which is light and wavy. Temperament The King Shepherd is self-confident with a well-balanced nervous system and should not be shy. Extremely intelligent and easy to train. Faithful and eager to please its owner, this breed makes a fine working dog and sheep-herder. A courageous watch and guard dog showing courage and hardiness in his role of protector, it makes a very nice companion. The King Shepherd is full of strength and vigor. Friendly toward strangers, children and other animals. A docile, obedient breed with an easy gait and plenty of stamina. The objective in training this dog is to achieve pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in its pack. When we humans live with dogs , we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. Because a dog communicates his displeasure with growling and eventually biting, all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. The humans must be the ones making the decisions, not the dogs. That is the only way your relationship with your dog can be a complete success. It does best with at least a large yard. Exercise The King Shepherd love strenuous activity, preferably combined with training of some kind, for this dog is very intelligent and craves a good challenge. It needs to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk , jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. If under-exercised, this breed can become restless and destructive. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Life Expectancy. King Shepherd vs. Many believe the German shepherd dog or GSD is the most majestic of all dog breeds, but his majesty may need to move over — the king shepherd is trying to claim that crown. With a name as regal as its appearance, the king shepherd shares part of its ancestry with the German shepherd. The two dogs look alike and have a lot in common, but they have distinct differences, too. German shepherd — for a head-to-head comparison. Instead, king shepherds are considered hybrid dogs. Because German shepherd and king shepherd breeds were created during different time periods, they were also bred for different reasons. German Shepherds Bred in Germany by Captain Max von Stephanitz, German shepherds were created from a mixture of the best local herding dogs. Rather than being bred for looks, they were bred for their intelligence and excellence in the field. A few generations of breeding eventually lead to a breed standard for both looks and temperament. Plus, their desire to protect their flock and family made this dog a good choice as a family dog, watchdog, or guard dog. They even made it big in Hollywood where Rin Tin Tin became the most famous dog in America in the s. This breed became and remains one of the most popular dog breeds in America. Their popularity led to high demand for German shepherd puppies, which led to overbreeding and a variety of health issues. King Shepherds King shepherds were first bred in the early s. Shiloh shepherds are a mix of American German shepherds, old European lines of German shepherds, and Alaskan malamutes. King shepherds are still suited for a wide variety of jobs, and they can make good police dogs, service dogs, and search and rescue workers. Because of their malamute genes, they also sometimes work in cart pulling. However, the king shepherd is recognized by the American Rare Breed Association and the American King Shepherd Club , which has set a breed standard for its looks and temperament. German Shepherd: Looks The king shepherd looks like a larger German shepherd the opposite of a Belgian Malinois , which looks like a smaller German shepherd. King shepherds have a wider, more square frame, without the sloping back often seen in purebred GSDs. Both king and German shepherds have dense double coats with a rough, weather resistant top coat and a soft, insulating undercoat that sheds heavily twice a year. Both breeds come in a variety of coat colors, including black, black and tan, sable, and bicolor coats. To care for their coats, both breeds will need to be brushed times a week to remove loose hair and distribute their natural oils throughout their coats. And to keep their coat healthy, both breeds benefit from a daily fish oil supplement. German Shepherd: Personality The German shepherd is a high-energy working dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. King shepherds were bred to be companion dogs as much as working dogs. They move a little slower than GSDs and are gentle giants that make great family pets. When it comes to German shepherds, different breeders specialize in different traits. Some breeders focus on breeding highly motivated working dogs for police and military operations. Others specifically breed companion dogs. Because of their large sizes, both breeds will be easier to manage with early socialization and obedience training. Their high intelligence makes them quick learners that respond well to consistent training. German Shepherd: Health The king shepherd was bred with health in mind — breeders hoped to create a healthier version of the GSD. Mixed breed dogs are less prone to health issues than purebred dogs. However, king shepherds are also larger, and larger dogs tend to have shorter life expectancies than smaller dogs. Still, in spite of their large size, king shepherds do have longer lifespans years than German shepherds years. So, to an extent, breeders succeeded in their goal. However, because they have such a long line of German shepherd ancestry, King shepherds can still inherit the same genetic health issues that are common in GSDs. These issues include:.

It began in with my first Labrador and faithful companion. I soon learned that the Labrador is the ultimate man's best friend and the most versatile canine imaginable. I manage a small hobby kennel near Portland, Oregon. I breed English-style Labradors to the AKC standard with proper structure and temperament that can do it "all". Beautiful dogs that have a natural drive to retrieve, all the while being enjoyable companions. Thirteen years ago my friend Molly Scoggin and I decided to join kennels and become one under the prefix of Devonshire. I'm grateful to have such a good friend and great companion to share this hobby with. Some of the dogs on this site reside with Molly in Sisters, Oregon and some reside with me. We believe the hallmark of the breed is its temperament and versatility and are dedicated to preserving these wonderful Labrador traits for future generations to love. Enjoy your visit to Devonshire Labradors on the web! It began in with my first Labrador and faithful companion, leading to a passion for the breed. I breed English Labradors to the AKC standard with proper structure and temperament that can do it "all". I'm grateful to have such a trusted friend and great companion to share this hobby with. We strive to go above and beyond on health issues, temperament, and genetic screening for our breeding dogs, as well as for the individual care and placement of puppies in responsible homes. Meet our dogs—handsome stud dogs and beautiful b rood bitches— that are the foundation of our breeding program. Our puppies have grown to be wonderful family companions and successful show dogs, guide dogs, diabetic alert dogs, therapy dogs, Canine Companions for Independence dogs, and hunting dogs. We are proud of our home-bred dogs and how they have enriched people's lives. Find out more about our breeding program, and whether we have any upcoming litters planned or available puppies and older dogs. According to the registration statistics compiled by the American Kennel Club, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular pure bred dog in the Portland metropolitan area. These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Our Labs can be found across the country in forty 40 states from the great Southwest to historic New England, from frigid Alaska to the Sunshine state. Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we have shipped more than 8, world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily ship our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Portland. For details, Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Labrador Retrievers Make Good Therapists In recent articles, a licensed professional counselor with thirty years of experience, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children and seniors. Dogs help children to be more physically fit. All dogs, regardless of breed, need to be walked. Children who take their dogs for regularly scheduled walks tend to exercise more than those who have no reason to get up off the couch and leave the TV. The Journal of Physical Activity and Health concluded that people who walk their dogs generally walk about an hour longer per day than non-dog walkers. There are a number of explanations for exactly how dogs accomplish all these health benefits. First of all, dogs need walking, feeding, grooming, fresh water, and they encourage lots of playing and petting. All of these activities require some action from owners. Studies have shown that when people pet animals, their blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature decrease. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! My names Cindy, and Im a very special girl who has undergone quite a journey ever since coming into Animal Aids care. I am sweet as sugar, way smart, and beyond excited to find a patient, loving, and experienced furever home! Due to my behavioral history, multiple meetings with me are required before I will be ready to move into a new home. I am foster-to-adopt to ensure any adopter has Animal Aids support and is following through with my behavioral management plans as I get accustomed to my new home. My Animal Aid Journey: I came into Animal Aids care back in April after spending some time in a shelter in a rural part of Washington where I was displaying signs of behavioral decline from shelter stress. Once I moved into my first foster home in a suburban neighborhood right outside of Portland, it became quite clear that I hadnt had much experience in a typical home environment before. While I loved running around and playing with my fosters, I was spooked by quite a bit at their home and would become especially sensitive at night time. We decided itd be best to move me into Animal Aids Emergency Kennel, so the Animal Aid staff could get a closer look at what might be going on. After a few vet appointments and a consultation with a Veterinary Behaviorist at Synergy Behavior Solutions, we discovered that I not only had an ear infection, but also had torn ligaments in both my rear legs, luxating patellas, and hip-dysplasia. It was a shock to many as I had been running, playing and jumping around like nothing was wrong! The medical discovery did, however, help explain why I was becoming so sensitive at night after a long day of play with fosters, staff, and volunteers. Once I got started on some medicine to treat my pain and anxiety, Animal Aid started to see a huge improvement in my behavior and an increase in my desire to train. One of my dedicated Emergency Kennel volunteers ended up falling in love with me and brought me into her home for fostering, so I could prepare for surgery to get my rear-end in better shape. Surgery and recovery was pretty hard on me because I love to be active and had to remain calm for such a long time, but I was approved for increased activity and continue to build up my strength with the guidance of my friends at Amicus Physical Therapy. Ive really been able to learn so much about how nice it can be living inside of home, but I still tend to love spending as much time outdoors as possible! Im a big fan of chasing squirrels, so it helps tremendously that my fosters have a tall and secure fence to keep me and the squirrels safe. My current fosters have taught me many valuable skills that they will share with an adopter and they continue to keep up with my behavioral modification and management with the guidance of the awesome staff at Synergy Behavior Solutions. I am looking for.I need a home that is going to be dedicated to following my behavioral plans, meeting my needs, and giving me all the love I deserve so I can continue to prosper. I definitely need a home with a fenced yard because outside time is my absolute favorite and I am reactive towards strangers and other dogs though I have made amazing improvement with some fear free training! I love to chase and go on walks with other dogs, but I can be a bit rude and annoying if the other dog isnt interested in playing with me. I should not live full-time with another dog and should be kept under close supervision during any playtime meetings due to my history of resource guarding. After some scuffles with my foster brother, we now live in separate areas of our home. Unfortunately, due to my bite-history, I cannot be safely placed in a home with children or a home that might expect to have children in the future. Likes: I love to play! I could really play all day, if you let me. Tug seems to be my favorite game, but now that I am allowed to run again, fetch is also a blast! I love to romp around and chase my flirt pole, theres definitely some kind of herding breed in me! I also really enjoy spending time with my people. I will follow you around like a shadow and love keeping a close eye on my fosters when they are working in their garden. Luckily, as much as I love my people, Im still very good at spending time alone and have never become vocal or destructive. Ill be full of excitement and wiggles when you come back home though! Im a total smartie pants and bond the fastest with people who know how to work my brain! You better be ready to keep my training time fun and exciting though, otherwise, Ill just get bored with you and go find something more fun to do. Dislikes: We dont know for sure, but its likely that I have been hit in the past due to my fear and sensitivity around raised hands, sticks, poles, etc. You must be cautious about this, especially when I am still learning to trust you as I might aggress if I am triggered. While I am able to tolerate being left alone, I dont seem to enjoy it. Ive got some major FOMO and have been notoriously good at objecting to going back into my confined spaces when my fosters need to head out somewhere. I also dont like to be crated. I do great with exercise pens and baby gates, but I seem to have some claustrophobia with small confinement, like crates. Animal Aid and my fosters have done a great job of helping me get over some of my car riding phobia, but its still not my favorite activity. I seem to be a bit nervous around big trucks and buses when I am out on walks, but am working hard on overcoming this fear. I enjoy meeting new people as long as they are accompanied by someone I trust and follow along with my special introduction instructions which sets everyone up for success! Once you give me some time and we are acclimated to one another, we are certain to be friends for life! Due to all the medical issues and pain I experienced in my young life, I am not a fan of excessive pets and handling. Let me decide when its time for pets or cuddles time, please! I absolutely hate it if you try to take any treats away from me which has resulted in aggressive behavior. I follow a strict management plan when it comes to food and treats to prevent the unpleasant behavior from happening. I have nipped and bit a few folks that left some bruising and scratches. I always seem to feel real sorry about it afterwards, but its really important for any adopter to know about this history and it must be taken into serious consideration as we acclimate to one another in a new home. I have undergone extensive training, am taking behavioral medications, have a colorful custom-made muzzle, and have thorough behavioral management plans that must be strictly kept up with in order to prevent these incidents from occurring in my future home. I had major surgery on both my rear legs in August to help make me more comfortable. It was a very long and hard recovery process, so its very important that I live with someone who is very careful about not allowing me to reinjure myself, now that I am able to run and play again. Pain management will have to be a requirement throughout the rest of my life!!!

Dark yellow urine How to Check for Dehydration at Home A well-hydrated dog is generally active with shiny bright eyes. Methods to estimate for dehydration at home include checking the gums, evaluating skin elasticity, and monitoring urine frequency and color. The normal texture should be silky, shiny, and feel moist. Dehydrated dogs will have dull colored, sticky, and dry gums. Normal turgor results in the skin quickly falling back into place. The skin of dehydrated pets will lose this elasticity and fall back into place more slowly. Urine in a normal, hydrated dog should be pale yellow in color. Dehydrated dogs with normal kidney function will have concentrated dark yellow urine and will urinate less frequently. Practice these hydration tests on a healthy dog, so that you can better see the difference in a case of dehydration. Remember: these are rough tests. For example: Are bowel movements normal or is there diarrhea? Is your dog urinating normally? Are they licking their lips or drooling, which could suggest nausea? Is there any vomiting? Is your dog coughing? Have you noticed any trouble breathing or labored respiration? Does your dog appear to be in pain? Is your dog limping? Hunched posture? Reluctant to move? Can you see any wounds on your dog? Does your dog have the same behavior and activity level? Are they playing or greeting you at the door like normal? Or are they lethargic and less active? Any abnormality is cause for concern. This can be compounded if your dog is very young or old, pregnant, nursing, or has medical problems such as diabetes or kidney disease. Learn more about causes for dehydration here. Fill the bowl daily with fresh, clean water. Soiled bowls. Bowls with dirt, molds, insects, or soap residue can discourage a dog from drinking. Wash and rinse the water bowl thoroughly with weekly cleaning in the dishwasher. Bowl types. Some dogs have bowl inclinations. Try a variety of materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic to see if your dog has a preference. More bowls. Adding additional water bowls around the house or outdoors can encourage dogs to drink. Having more bowls can ensure there is water for every pet. Optimize accessibility. Bowls should be easily accessible to dogs with arthritis or other mobility issues. Dogs should not have to go upstairs or downstairs to get water. You can also periodically take the water bowl to your dog to encourage them to drink. Pet fountains. Some dogs enjoy fountains and will drink more when available. If you use a fountain and your dog loves it, make sure you keep it clean. Some dogs will stop using the fountain if the water becomes moldy. For an unknown reason, some dogs will lick water from your fingers. Offer water to your dog by allowing them to lick water from your hand or your finger. Canned food. Canned dog food has a much higher water content than dry dog food and can be a very good source of water. You can also add extra water, giving the canned food a gravy consistency. Flavor the water or food. Offer your dog broth, flavored water, or add moisture to dry food. Warm water or low-sodium chicken or beef broth can be added to canned or dry food. It works well to add the water or broth about 30 minutes before trying to feed. Mix Pedialyte with water in a ratio and offer small amounts at a time. Adding an ice cube to the water bowl can encourage some dogs to drink. You can also freeze broth into cubes or inside toys and offer them outside on a hot day. Water quality. Consider the quality of your water. Did something change? Some homes are on public water, while others may be sourced from a well or spring. Trying a different water source, such as bottled or filtered water, can encourage dogs to drink. If traveling, consider taking a gallon jug of your home water and their familiar bowl with you. Syringe water. As a last resort, you can use a syringe to give your dog water. Fill a syringe without the needle with water, place the syringe between the teeth and cheek, and slowly offer a small amount. If they swallow well and accept it, wait 5 minutes, and offer more. If your dog coughs or gags, stop. How much you offer will depend on the size of your dog. Try offering a dog less than 10 pounds about 5 ml 1 teaspoon , a medium size dog 40 pounds 15 to 20 ml 1 tablespoon , and a large breed dog 30 to 60 ml 2 to 4 tablespoons per dose. If your dog swallows the water and does not vomit, repeat in 1 hour. Gradually increase the quantity and frequency. In general, if your dog is so sick that you need to give fluid by syringe, they would benefit from the advice and treatment of a veterinarian. You can generally purchase a syringe from your vet, at most pet stores, or at your local farm supply store. Treat pain. Dogs in pain, such as dogs with arthritis, may not want to get up and walk to the water bowl. Treat their pain with medications as provided by your veterinarian. While it is important to get your dog to drink, it is equally important to not allow your dog to drink too much. When To See the Vet Ultimately if your dog is not drinking, the risk of dehydration exists. It is best to see your veterinarian to help identify the underlying cause and provide treatment if needed. They can supplement fluids through an IV or by subcutaneous fluid administration. How To Prevent Dehydration in Dogs Tips to prevent dehydration in dogs include: Ensure your dog always has fresh, clean water. Never leave your dog for more than 12 hours. Water can be spilled or knocked over. Ensure your dog always has shade when outside. Provide opportunities to exercise during cooler times of day, such as morning or evening. Keep trash covered to ensure your dog does not ingest items that will cause gastrointestinal distress leading to fluid loss. There are many reasons that a dog may not be drinking water. Any disease or problem that causes nausea or impacts metabolic function can cause this problem. Learn more about the many possible causes of dehydration in dogs. What should I do if my dog is not drinking water? If your dog is not drinking water, look for other clinical problems. Are they vomiting or having diarrhea? The best thing to do is to call your veterinarian. How do I get my dog to drink water? If your dog is not drinking, the best thing you can do is encourage water intake. You can do this by flavoring the water, offering fresh water in a different bowl, or offering some canned food. How long can a dog go without drinking water? A dog can live a few days without water. How long depends on how quickly they are losing fluid or not taking in fluids. For example, if a dog is not drinking as well as having vomiting and diarrhea, they are both losing fluids and not taking fluids, which can cause faster and more severe dehydration. Give them a little time. If they go into a shaded or cool environment and have access to water, most dogs will drink when they are thirsty. There have been reports of bloat in dogs that drink too much after exercising. Drinking too much can be as big of a problem as drinking too little, and can ultimately lead to water intoxication. Is this a problem? There are some dogs that love to drink from puddles. Rainwater has a different smell and taste compared to chlorinated tap water, making it more appealing to dogs. While this is not a problem for most dogs, there is a risk of the puddles being contaminated with bacteria, molds, and even automotive products like gasoline. How much water should I let my dog drink? The general rule of thumb is that dogs should drink about 20 to 40 ml of water per pound of body weight per day. Their water consumption will vary depending on if they eat canned food, which contains water. You can measure their water consumption daily to see if it is more or less than those listed above. If your dog is ill, please call your veterinarian as soon as possible. Additional Articles:. If this is the reason, there is no need to worry! A slight decrease in water consumption due to reduced activity is no cause for alarm. However, consult a vet if your dog persistently refuses to drink. Dogs should never go more than a day without water. Learn more 2. And thanks to their acute sense of smell, dogs know how to distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar sources of water. However if the smell of the water is not recognized as familiar, your dog may simply refuse to drink it. Planning a trip somewhere new? Bladder infection or urinary tract infection can also cause a decrease in thirst. Aging An older dog may also avoid drinking water. It could simply be that getting to the water requires too much effort, or that the sense of thirst may be diminishing along with its appetite. Older dogs get less exercise and therefore may not be as thirsty as younger dogs. However, older dogs need to maintain adequate hydration levels, so if drinking seems to be an issue, switching to a moist food might help. As always, consult a vet before changing dog foods. If they experience fright or pain, they typically associate those negative feelings with the circumstances in which they first experienced them. If your dog has had a bad experience while drinking from the water bowl, for example someone accidentally stepped on his tail or paw, he may associated those negative accidents with the action of drinking. To remove the fear of drinking, you can try to use a new water bowl or you can try to put his water bowl in a different place. At puppy age, many animals produce the lactase enzyme, responsible for decomposing the lactose. After the breastfeeding period, many dogs lose this particular enzyme and are not able to metabolize lactose anymore. Symptoms of lactose intolerance:. Your dog may need to be weaned from its mother and getting him or her to drink from a bowl can be a monumental task. Or they may be recovering from an illness or surgery and need to be retrained on how to drink. Either way, it takes some effort to get your puppy to drink again and on its own. But to entice them to drink, you can feed them lactose-free milk, a little broth or even some fruit with a high-water content. Another good way is to feed him or her moist dog food. That way they will get water regardless of how much they drink from a bowl. How to Stop Puppy Diarrhea? Click here to learn more. That means larger dogs need a lot of water while smaller ones can do with little amounts. When your dog is not drinking, you can try to change the water temperature. Some dogs like it cold, so they drink out of the toilet. Instead of feeding your dog water at room temperature, put some ice cubes in it. The cool temperature should entice many dogs to drink again. Take your dog for a good walk. The hot temperatures should motivate your dog to drink something. Or you can put their water or food bowl in a different place where there are no distractions. You can also try changing bowls to see if that is what stops your dog from drinking. Dogs do get a little fussy sometimes when it comes to bowls. Other methods include splashing their nose, play water games, keep his or her water fresh at all times or moisten his or her food. There are lots of tricks to use when you are worried about your dog going long intervals without water. Puppies start drinking from almost the minute they are born. After about a month after birth, your puppy will start drinking water. Puppies start to eat real dog food at this time as well. Do not try to give your newborn puppies water prior to the 4-week benchmark. Your puppy could get sick, and water does not contain the nutrition they need at this stage in its life. If you do give them water before 4 week is up, they may get a little sick. It is best to wait a little bit and let your puppy get all the nutrition they need to be healthy before giving them any water to drink. Some dogs just take a little longer than others. There are several good reasons why this situation arises. One is that they are too busy playing and having fun to notice they are thirsty. A second reason is that they do not like the water temperature. Some dogs like their water nice and cold and others prefer room temperature. The former dogs tend to be the ones who drink out of the toilet, as that is almost the coolest water in the house. A third reason would be that there is too much noise in the house. Some puppies like peace and quiet when they drink or eat. Reason number 4 is that they are stressed. That stress can come from having a new baby in the house, they are new to the house themselves and so on. The good news is that they will or should return to drinking on their own in a little while. Need to know How to Get a Puppy to Eat? Click here to find out. Some Final Words Getting your puppy to drink is vital, but you should not panic. There are some good tricks to try that should entice them to drink again. You just have to be patient and watch your puppy. If the non-drinking lasts for some time, then call your vet to see what can be done. Sometimes an illness will; cause your puppy to stop drinking and they will need medication to start drinking again. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It has even been called the most important nutrient with regards to survival. What if your dog is not drinking enough water? Then, multiply that number by 50 to determine approximately how many milliliters of water per day your dog should be drinking. Most dogs drink plenty of water to meet their hydration needs. But what if your dog is not drinking water? Here are six possible reasons why your dog is not drinking enough water. However, just having a bowl out for them may not be enough. You have to consider the quality of the water, the placement of the bowl, and the number of bowls available. If the water is dirty or contaminated with debris, your dog may refuse to drink it. Since some dogs may have preferences on how they like their water placed, you may need to offer water in different locations or elevations to see what they like. There may be times when a dog is denied access to water by another animal in the household. This is known as resource guarding. Also consider whether your dog may have had a frightening experience in the area where the water bowl is. Some dogs are more noise-sensitive than others, so having the water bowl in a noisy area like a laundry room or high-traffic hallway may discourage them from drinking as much water as they should. Change in Water Source Many dogs are sensitive to the taste of the water that they are commonly offered. For example, a dog that has always been offered tap water from a municipal water source may find drinking well water off-putting if the family moves to a new home in the country. Likewise, if your dog is accustomed to drinking distilled or bottled water and you switch to tap water, he may drink less than he should. In these situations, try to help your dog gradually adjust to the new water by mixing the two types and slowly phasing out the old water type until your dog accepts the new water. Type of Food The type of food your dog eats contributes to their hydration. Some types of foods contain less moisture, causing your dog to drink more water, while others contain more moisture, so your dog drinks less. If only dry kibble is fed, your dog will need to drink more water to meet their hydration needs. However, if your dog eats only wet or canned food, they will get a large amount of water from that food, so you may notice her drinking less water. If you are feeding a kibble-only diet, keep an eye on water bowl levels to make sure your dog is drinking enough water. Dogs with an infected or broken tooth and tumors in the mouth often find it painful to drink. Bad breath can be a sign that your pet is suffering from an oral issue. If you suspect any of these conditions, it is important to have your dog examined by a veterinarian to determine the best treatment. Nausea There are some diseases that can cause nausea in dogs, and nausea can cause a dog to drink less. Kidney disease often causes increased thirst in the early stages. However, as the disease progresses and kidney enzyme levels rise, dogs often become nauseous. This nausea may then result in decreased appetite, decreased thirst, and possibly even vomiting. Diseases that cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, such as pancreatitis and gastroenteritis, may also cause nausea. There is a phase of rabies in which affected animals refuse to drink water. Thankfully, rabies is a preventable disease since safe and effective rabies vaccines are available through your veterinarian. While not terribly common, disorders of the part of the brain called the hypothalamus may cause dogs to not drink water. If your dog stops drinking water and also exhibits unusual behavior or changes in gait, seek veterinary help immediately. Water is a basic need for all living creatures. Seek the help of your veterinary medical team if you see unusual changes in thirst. Featured Image: iStock. Grota decided at an early age that she wanted to be a veterinarian. A native of Indiana, she grew up in a home where animals were.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Luckily there are some easy ways to make sure your Pug is drinking enough: 1 Never assume that your Pug knows how much water he needs. It will be up to you to oversee this. Keep the guidelines in mind see above. If you have a goal each day of how much your Pug should drink, measure it. Water that is not changed out during the day can become filled with slimy particles of food and can even have a top layer film of saliva that makes it very unappealing to dogs. In addition, room temperature water is often ignored over nice, cool water. Clean the bowl daily with hot water and soap and refill it as needed pouring out old water, not just topping it off. While dogs generally take a drink after getting back from an exercise session , it's best to bring water along for the walk and offer a break at the halfway point of a short walk or every 20 minutes or so during longer outings. This will help your Pug cool down, get their breath under control and refill on fluids. To make this easy, you may want to use a canine travel water container like the H2O4K9 Dog Water Bottle and Travel Bowl in which the lid serves as a bowl; this is made of stainless steel and holds 9. Canine water fountains can be a great help with Pugs that are not overly interested in their water bowl because they are attracted to the sound and sight of the flowing water. Certain fruits are healthy and safe for dogs to eat, are low in calories, and the natural sugar fructose is absorbed slowly due to the fiber content and therefore will not spike insulin or cause a 'sugar high'. These can be given fresh or frozen, alone or mixed into food, and most Pugs love the taste of these fruits. Whether it comes from surface water lakes, reservoirs, etc. Tap water can contain as many as 60, chemical compounds of which only 91 are regulated via the Safe Drinking Water Act. Some of the compounds commonly found in tap water include: Prescription drugs - Filtering systems cannot catch the fine particles of many drugs that are expelled in people's urine including birth control meds, beta blockers, anti-anxiety meds, and even Viagra. Arsenic — This has been classified as a cancer causing agent yet is allowed to be in tap water. This chemical that was once used as rat poison has been shown to cause both brain and kidney damage. Chlorine — This is added to water to kill bacteria however it has been clinically proven to cause serious cell damage, leading to tumors. Trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids — These two by-products of chlorine are thought to cause cancer and reproductive problems. Factory runoff, pesticides and even rocket fuel — These and many other compounds are allowed to be in tap water and only deemed safe if drank by healthy humans over 6 years old and this is based on simply one 8 oz. What to Do: There are a couple of effective choices to make sure that your Pug is drinking clean, safe water: 1 Connect a filtering device to your kitchen sink - This type of device typically attaches to the faucet from under the sink and has replaceable filter cartridges. This can be installed by a plumbing professional or homeowners with DIY skills. You can choose from a wide variety of sizes, depending on if it's just you and your Pug or a larger family. A recommended one is the Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher ; you just fill this with tap water and as you pour the water out, it removes all chemicals and toxins, leaving pure, fresh H2O. A gallon contains 16 cups and therefore would last about 5 days Changes in Thirst When a puppy or dog is suddenly not drinking as much as normal or has a noticeable increase in thirst, the most common reason is a health issue. This type of change should not be overlooked. Some common health issues that cause increased thirst polydipsia or decreased thirst adipsia include but are not limited to: Diabetes. How to Get My Pug To Drink More Water One of the best ways to get your Pug to drink more water is to keep a variety of water bowls in different places around the house. Stick to the style of bowl you know they like. Some dogs will stop drinking water if they are not feeling good or have a medical condition that has caused them to stop drinking water. You can also teach your dog to drink on command. You can even consider rewarding them with a treat for good behavior. It all boils down to the tone in your voice, after all, Pugs just want to please their owners. We like nice cold water because it just tastes better right? Well, your dog is the same way. Yes, I said debris. It could be more on hot days. It is designed to circulate and filter water, so it stays cleaner and tastes fresher. Some dogs tend to drink more because they love drinking from the running water. My sister-in-law has a fountain and her dogs love it. Take their doggie bag with a stack of dog biscuits, a portable water bowl, and some fresh water. Whenever we took Mindy with us anywhere, we always carried a portable water bowl like this. Make sure that you offer your dog water every 10 or 20 minutes. Veterinarian Patrick Mahaney , says that Brachycephalic dogs like Pugs find it hard to drink out of narrow bowls and deep bowls. Wider and shallow bowls are much better for Pugs, Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs or other short-headed breeds. This is what we used to use for Mindy and she loved it. You can even take them to the dog park and let them roam around and play with other dogs. Just make sure you have a harness ready, in case one of the other dogs acts up and you need to get quick control. If you have a back yard, you can let them roam around your yard and play. As an occasional treat, you can also use a low sodium broth or instant bone broth to make it even more enticing. You can even use diluted carrot juice. Just soak the dry dog food in the low sodium bone broth, until all the liquid is absorbed, then serve it to your pooch. This is a great way to replenish electrolytes your dog has lost due to dehydration. After all, you want your dog to drink more water, not get used to the bone broth. At one point there was a nasty Internet cube rumor that said it was dangerous to give dogs ice cubes. Well, according to Dr. There are some dangers with cubes and dogs which are: Dental damage to teeth from chomping on ice Not monitoring your dogs while chewing ice cubes can cause a choking hazard. Why not try this flavored ice bowl to see if it gets your Pug to drink more water. At least once a week. Slime build ups on the bowl over time can contain harmful bacteria for your pooch. Read this article to find out how to give your pooch watermelon. You can even add pieces of the fruit to their water. You can even add other fruits such as blueberries, and apple cubes to help get your dog to drink more. If you notice that your dog is drinking more water from your garden instead of their water bowl, try using filtered water to entice them to drink more. Tap water is known to contain high amounts of chlorine, which can be one of the reasons Fido refuses to drink water from their bowl. Mindy hated drinking tap water, we only used filtered water. We use this filter, which you can attach to your existing kitchen faucet. This will allow some of the nasty chlorine flavor to dissipate. If your budget allows, you can even give them bottled water. If you have a two-level house, place bowls both upstairs and downstairs. Older Pugs with joint problems may avoid drinking if the water source is too far away. If you make the water accessible and within reach, your dog is likely to drink more H.Would you want to walk a mile every time you wanted a drink of water? Take your pooch out for potty breaks every few hours instead of making them hold their pee for eight hours. If you have an older dog, then invest in a pet door and let them have access to the backyard. Of course, this only makes sense if you have a fenced yard. We had a pet door for Mindy, so she could relieve herself whenever she needed to go. Try switching up their food or at least mixing some wet food with their dry food. A combination diet will help increase their water intake while you get them used to drinking more water from their own bowl. They may have to give your pooch a saline IV or administer fluids to help restore the fluids in their body. The veterinarian may also want to test for any medical problems that can be preventing your dog from drinking such as dehydration or kidney disease. Your Pug needs water to survive, so make sure they are drinking plenty of H20 especially in the summer. I have no doubt that one of these tips will help you get your dog to drink more water. Absolutely NOT! Some juices such as grape and cherry are extremely toxic to dogs. They have a lot of sugar and can give some dogs an upset stomach due to their high acidity levels. Can my dog drink unsweetened tea? No, tea and coffee should be avoided. They both contain high amounts of caffeine, which can be toxic to animals. Some herbal teas are good for Pugs , but you should always consult with your veterinarian before giving them some. What about giving my dog milk? Read this about giving dog milk. Dogs need to drink in order to remain healthy. Your dog can get seriously sick very quickly if they stop drinking enough water. You will want to know some of the common reasons for your dog to stop drinking so that you can be sure about when it is time to take your dog to the vet. If you are ready to learn some more about why your dog is not drinking enough water, you need to keep reading. Bladder Infection A bladder infection is one of the most common reasons that dogs stop drinking water. This can be a very painful condition, and dogs are usually also not hungry when they have a bladder infection. If your dog has been urinating in places that it should not be, or if they are urinating more often than normal, this can indicate a bladder infection. When combined with a lack of thirst and hunger, this can indicate that your dog needs to see the vet for additional workup to get rid of the infection. Old Age Older animals can show a declining interest in food and water. This can be due to a lack of appetite or disruption of the normal signals that lead to thirst. Dogs that are older often have underlying conditions that leave them not feeling very good, which can lead to nausea and pain of various kinds. This can lead to a lack of thirst as well as a lack of interest in food. There are medications that can be used to help your older dog to feel better, and your vet can also make sure that your dog does not have a more serious condition going on that is causing them to stop drinking. Ingestion of Poison or Bad Food When dogs get into something that is bad for them, they can make themselves very sick. This might be something poisonous , or it could simply be food that has gone bad. When your dog has eaten something it should not have, this can lead to nausea, which causes a lack of appetite and a lack of thirst. This is often the very first early symptom of this problem, and it will eventually be accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, and other serious symptoms. Poisoning cases are often on a very short timeline, so if you think your dog might have been poisoned, you will need to get them to the vet right away. Dental Issues Dogs with sore mouths are often not interested in eating or drinking. This can lead to other significant health risks over time, and you will need to address the dental issue that your dog is suffering from right away. This might be broken teeth, abscesses , or dental disease. Bad Smelling Water If you have recently moved to a new place and the water is different than your dog is used to, they might think that it smells bad and be unwilling to drink it. If their water has been contaminated in some way, they might also be unwilling to drink it until it is cleaned. Not every dog is really picky about the smell of their water, but in some cases, even the change from well water to city water can make a dog stop drinking. You might need to use a safe flavoring agent for their water until your dog gets used to the water in your new locations. If the water is just not clean, you will need to make sure that it is cleaned up so that your dog can drink it safely again. Anxiety Some dogs are prone to being anxious and fearful, and this can lead to an unwillingness to drink or to eat. Dogs that have been sacred in some way while drinking might connect the fear with the act of drinking. Issues with fighting between animals in your home over food and water can also cause anxiety in fearful dogs. You can resolve this problem by helping your dog to be more secure in its eating and drinking location and by separating dogs who should not eat or drink together. Getting the help of a dog trainer can also make it easier to resolve this kind of issue. Your dog might need a creative solution to feel safe when drinking or eating, and professionals can offer this kind of solution in most cases. Dog trainers can be very helpful with complex behavioral issues or issues rooted in fear. Dogs cannot go too long without drinking enough water without getting sick. You will probably only have a few days to figure out why your dog is not drinking. For more information, contact EVCC by calling one of our locations. You can trust us to help you and your pet whenever you need us. Water is an essential part of life for dogs, just like it is for humans. Dogs should consume one ounce per pound of body weight every day to ensure that they are hydrated. The only sweat glands on a dog are on his paws, and those are not enough to keep him cool. The higher risk factor of dehydration comes from their inability to cool their body as quickly. Water is the key to keeping your dog cool, healthy, and happy. Change in Weather One reason that your dog may not be drinking much water is a change in weather. When fall comes around, many dogs will slow their water intake causing their parents to be alarmed. Without a high level of exertion, they may not be as interested in slopping up a gallon of water as soon as they reach their bowl. They might not be as lively and may not eat or drink as they normally would. This was one of their many survival tactics developed centuries ago. Bladder infections or urinary tract infections are two major culprits of reduced thirst. It could also be diabetes or kidney disease. Old Age As your dog gets older, he may start to drink less water. Associate the Activity with a Negative Experience There are also dogs that may associate drinking water with a negative experience. If you adopt a shelter dog, he may refuse to drink out of the same type of bowl that the shelter provided because he associates it with a negative experience. There are an abundance of reasons he could have negative feelings. If you suspect this to be the case, try buying a new bowl that looks totally different and placing it in a new location. This might clear the issue up right away. The pain of the cold water on sensitive teeth will make him avoid it. In this case, your dog is experiencing severe separation anxiety. That kind of change can really affect your canine companion and he may lose his desire to eat and drink. Your dog will need to get used to new surroundings, new smells, and new sights. It can be overwhelming for them just like it is for us and one reaction might be to ignore his water bowl. You can also give your pup ice to snack on. Try a new bowl or a new place to place the bowl to tempt him. They will be able to provide additional advice.

Unfortunately, this happy event is sometimes marred by tragedy. Puppy deaths occur, and sometimes the dam is the apparent cause of these deaths. On rare occasions, mother dogs will even eat her puppies. Although it is easy to be angry at the mother dog or to be disturbed or disgusted by her actions, there are many reasons that she might harm or kill her puppies. Cannibalism When an animal eats another animal of the same species, it is called cannibalism. Cannibalism is rare in dogs, especially if the litter is birthed whelped in a home environment as opposed to a loud or crowded kennel. Puppy cannibalism can occur at birth or even after a few days of life. Female dogs of any breed or mix of breeds can cannibalize their puppies. Cannibalism may or may not be an inherited trait and it may or may not recur from one litter to the next. Lack of Recognition An inexperienced mother dog dam may not recognize her puppies as being her own offspring. In addition, dogs who have had cesarean sections may also fail to recognize their offspring because of the lack of hormones produced during a natural birth. Newborn puppies move erratically and make high-pitched sounds. These behaviors mimic the actions of prey animals, such as mice. Some dogs, especially terriers and terrier mixes, have a rodent-killing heritage. Although any dam can cannibalize her pups, these dogs may instinctively be compelled to eat their puppies if they fail to recognize them as their own. The infected teats may be red, swollen and hard or hot to the touch. Although very serious, mastitis can be easily treated. When puppies clamp down to suckle, the dam may feel enough pain to cause her to reject the puppies. On some occasions, the pain is sufficient to cause the dam to become aggressive to her puppies and to kill and cannibalize them. Stress or Fear If a mother is stressed or fearful for her litter, these negative emotions may trigger aggression. This aggression may be directed toward the puppies and result in cannibalism. Stillborn or Unhealthy Pups In nature, when one or more members of a litter are unhealthy or stillborn, they put the rest of the litter at risk. Most of the time, domestic dogs will simply reject unhealthy puppies, pushing them away from the nest. However, if instinct takes over and the puppies are young enough, the dam might kill and eat unhealthy puppies, as well. Why do male dogs eat puppies? The relationship of a mother to her puppies In general a bitch will know how to take care of her offspring innately without having to seek help from outside sources. This is a protective membrane in which the puppy leaves the uterus of their mother. It is broken by the mother ripping it with her teeth. They then lick the puppy to remove any secretions or fluid, bite off the cord which connects to their placenta and keeps them close to retain heat. They will then eat their placenta and any other afterbirth material. They perform all of the above actions instinctively, even if they are first time mothers. The same instinct means they know how to walk around their nest area without trampling on or harming their newborn puppies. Since this instinct is so keen, why then might they eat their own puppies? Is this a behavior which goes against their natural instincts? Why do dogs eat dead puppies? The idyllic version of a puppy's entrance to the world as described above is not always the case when a dog gives birth. Although it is not very prevalent, it is possible that a puppy will either be stillborn or not strong enough to live long after birth. They may have been injured on their way out via the birth canal or simply be underdeveloped during gestation. While it is not completely understood, it is possible the mother doesn't realise the puppy is their offspring. If the puppy has no heartbeat, they may consider it to be another part of the afterbirth. They eat it because they think it is waste material. If we see that a mother dog has eaten their puppy, it is likely because it has died. It is possible they are aware of this, but we can't know the exact motivation for the behavior. Another possible reason is that the puppy has signs of weakness or illness. While we may be inclined to do everything we can to help a weak or premature child, we are afforded the benefit of modern medicine. Dogs still have an instinct close to their wild cousins. Much of their behavior is due to survival. A sick puppy might make the rest of the litter sick and weaken the chances of the group's survival. The mother may eat the puppy they perceive as sick to save the rest of the group. One of the ways the mother may be able to tell if a puppy is sick is by registering their temperature. The mother may not eat them, but they might expel them from the nest. This can seem so cruel to us, but the behavior is instinctual. It is also possible the reason why a puppy is not well is because the mother bites them when trying to chew the cord or eat the afterbirth. This might be a simple accident or because the mother has a difficult time reaching the puppy. This is believed to occur more often with first time mothers. It is also possible the mother suffers a miscarriage before the puppy is taken to term. If this is the case, the mother may eat the fetus when it is eliminated. To know more about gestation of puppies, you can look at our week-by-week detailing of a dog's pregnancy. Why does a dog abandon her puppies? We have already seen that a mother dog may eat her young due to instinctual behavior. We might think of this as reprehensible behavior and the same might go for when they abandon their litter. At the beginning of their lives, the mother should only leave her litter for moments to feed or urinate. As the days pass, the mother will get up for longer periods of time. This gradual increase of separation time is designed to ensure the puppies learn how to fare for themselves. The puppies may cry in their mother's absence, especially if they are hungry or need something else. If the mother does not return for a significant amount of time and ignores her puppies' cries, only then can we consider this maternal abandonment. At this stage, we will need to intervene if the puppies are going to make it. At around 10 days of age, the puppies will begin the relatively slow process of opening their eyes. At around 15 days, they will start using their legs to move around and after 3 weeks of age, they will begin the weaning process to eat solids. As these advancements occur, they will begin to spend more time with their siblings and less with their mother. It is important to know what is normal advancement of a puppy's life and what is abandonment. Why does my dog bite her puppies? Removing the sacs in which the puppies are born can lead to accidental biting. This may cause some damage, but not necessarily. It will depend how hard they bite down. However, we can observe that the mother starts to bite or even bark at her puppies. It can seem needlessly aggressive, but we need to ensure we are properly reading the situation. This behavior usually presents at the time the puppies are starting to walk and eat on their own. The mother might bark at or bite the puppy if they try to suckle from their breast. This is because the mother is trying to teach the puppies to fend for themselves. How to prevent a dog from eating her puppies? Since dogs eating their young is an instinctive behavior, it isn't really something we can intervene in. Puppies need to be with their mother and we should not take them away preemptively as we worsen their chances of survival. If a dog starts to eat their puppy, then it will often be too late to do anything about it. What we can do is try to prepare as positive an environment as possible for the birth. We can try to influence the factors which will result in healthy puppies and a happy state of mind of the mother. In turn we can hopefully reduce the chances of complications during and after birth. This means providing an adequate diet during pregnancy and taking them for veterinary followups when needed. In no case should we feed them supplements without express permission from the veterinarian. This can lead to miscarriages. It is also advisable to ensure there is no added stress for the dog and that they have a comfortable environment. If we see that all of the puppies are alive, but the mother has rejected one or any of them, we should take the puppy to the vet immediately to see if there is anything wrong. Once they have confirmed their health status, the you can think about how to feed an abandoned puppy. Male dogs generally do not eat their young or kill them, at least not consciously. It is true there are examples of animals in other species, such as lions or gorillas, who kill younger members of a group. This is believed to be done for one of two reasons; so they don't have to allot them valuable resources or to stop weaning and let the female go back into heat more quickly. In the case of female dogs, their heat cycle will return approximately 6 months after birth regardless. Male dogs don't have much reason to kill offspring. However, you should still not have a male dog hanging round a female after they have given birth. Their presence alone can stress out the mother and puppies. This stress can lead to the mother to make bad decisions, including eating their young. Eventually it is a good idea for the puppies to socialize with other dogs , even if this is the father. Whether or not it is a good idea for the father to spend time with the puppies depends on the temperament of the individual dog. This article is purely informative. AnimalWised does not have the authority to prescribe any veterinary treatment or create a diagnosis. We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian if they are suffering from any condition or pain. There are a few theories as to why this occurs. Do Dogs Eat Their Babies? In some cases, in fact, she might be trying to be a good mom—just in a misguided way. Is It an Inherited Trait? Instead, most of the factors seem to be external. This is especially common in dogs who deliver via Cesarean section. C-sections prevent their bodies from releasing the natural hormones that cause them to recognize their young, and it also prevents them from experiencing the act of birth. Dogs who are bred during their first heat are especially vulnerable to committing cannibalism. This is a big problem in puppy mills because the owners care only about maximizing the number of offspring that each female can have. Of course, sometimes accidents can happen, even without something as nefarious as a puppy mill involved. Doing so can save the lives of countless puppies in more ways than one. For nursing dogs, this can include killing their puppies. One of the biggest sources of stress for a new canine mother is a busy birthing area. If there are people constantly coming and going or other animals harassing her, a mother may flip out and start eating puppies. You should do everything you can to give a new mom a quiet, secluded nursery. Set aside a room in your house or barn, and make it as comfy as possible for her. Of all the reasons that a mom might eat her pups, stress is one of the easiest to avoid, so do your best to avoid it. Sometimes, she devours more than just the afterbirth, though. The vast majority of the time, any puppy that gets eaten will have been stillborn. She may also eat the body along with the placenta. The good news is that as long as she only eats the stillborn pups, the mother should still be trustworthy around the rest of her newborns. Some are weak, scrawny, or otherwise unhealthy. In the wild, these dogs would have virtually no chance of surviving. Instead of letting the pup wither and die, the mom may just put the runt out of its misery. Also, if the dog is clearly sick or deformed, the mother may not let it nurse. This makes nursing excruciating. She may also reject and abandon her puppies. One Big Myth and Other Things to Keep in Mind One myth about newborn dogs is that the mother will reject her young if the scent of a human gets on them. In fact, it may be essential for you to handle the puppies, especially if any are sick, injured, or not feeding. You may need to keep them alive until the mother can resume caring for them again. You may carry a highly contagious virus like parvo on your clothing or shoes, which can then infect the pups. Also, you may notice the mother growling or snapping at her puppies. Canine cannibalism is an unfortunate thing, but it does happen. See also:. By Chris Anyone who has witnessed the bringing of new life into the world knows that the miracle of birth is a powerful thing. Mamas of all species have powerful instincts. Dogs are no different from humans in this regard. Female dogs instinctively know how to birth and care for their young. When a new litter is born, maternal instincts tell the mother how to sever the umbilical cord, remove the birthing sac, clean the pups and start feeding them—all on her own! Why do dogs eat their puppies? Unfortunately, instinct can also lead a mama dog to do things that we, as humans, find unthinkable. If you are the proud owner of an expecting female dog, you may be curious to know why this happens and what you can do to prevent it. In the days before dogs were lying around on our couches eating Scooby snacks and getting scritches, this instinct was critical to the survival of the species. In the wild, these actions deter predators and give her the freedom to move and defend herself and her litter. If the mother senses that a pup threatens the litter, her instinct will be to remove the threat. She should not be punished for doing so. She is not a monster. She is simply following a deeply ingrained instinct. Mother dog feeds her puppies with breast milk. Reasons Dogs Eat Their Puppies Instinct is the main thing that drives a dog to eat their puppies, but there are other reasons too. Some may eat their puppies by accident, some may eat stillborn puppies, and some may be responding to stress or a medical condition. Many things can cause newborn puppies to get sick and die. Respiratory infections, heart conditions, or improper nutrition in the womb are all things that can cause a puppy to be born sick. A mother dog can quickly sense if a puppy is sick. When she does, she will have to decide whether it is worth expanding her energy and milk on a puppy that may not survive. Often, the mother will put the pup out of its misery rather than waste precious nutrients. A sick puppy is also a threat to the litter. Infections and diseases can spread quickly and kill all the puppies. Rather than allow this, a mother dog will remove the threat to spare the rest of the litter. If you are able, remove the sick puppy from the litter and seek medical attention for it. You may be able to re-introduce the puppy to the litter later. An extremely tiny Dachshund puppy She Made a Mistake A mother dog may accidentally kill her puppies, especially if it is her first birth. When the mother removes the birthing sac and severs the umbilical cord, she runs the risk of injuring or even killing the puppy as she does it. Once a puppy is dead, the mother may decide to eat the body. This is a way for her to regain the precious nutrients and strength she lost during the birth. Those nutrients will ultimately pass to the rest of the litter through her milk. It is usually best not to intervene with your dog while she is birthing. Her instinct will tell her what to do. However, If you notice she is having difficulty, and you are afraid she might hurt a puppy, it is okay to step in and give her a hand. A small Boston Terrier puppy looks down sadly. This is more likely to happen if the puppies were delivered by C-Section. Vaginal birth conveys hormones to the puppies that strengthen their immune systems and mark them to the mother. Often, if a dog does not recognize the puppies right away, she will recognize them given time. In this case, it is crucial to prevent her from killing or eating the pups, as her maternal instinct may kick in in a few days. Try hand-feeding the pups and slowly reintroducing them to the mother little by little. A dog growls to someone coming near him. It does not just affect dogs—human mamas can also get mastitis. In dogs, the condition can be fatal for puppies. Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue that causes the nipples to become inflamed and sensitive. Young pups do not know that their mama is in excruciating pain. They just know where the milk is. As the pups attempt to feed, the mother may lash out and potentially injure or even kill the puppies. She may also abandon them or drive them out of the den. Abandonment can be just as deadly as an attack. If you notice your dog is having trouble nursing her pups or seems to be in pain or lashing out, take her to the vet as soon as possible. Your vet can treat Mastitis and make nursing much more comfortable for your dog. Dog breast feeding her puppy. She Is Stressed A newborn is stressful! A litter of six or more newborns is six times as stressful! A mother dog has just gone through the harrowing ordeal of birth. She is probably tired, hungry, scared, and has to deal with a litter of wailing pups. If she accidentally injures or kills a pup in a moment like this, her predatory instinct could kick in and drive her to eat the puppy. She needs nutrients, after all. To alleviate the stress for your mama dog, ensure she has plenty of easily available food and water. Do not bother her too much or try to interfere with the litter unless she seems to need help. Remove the father if he is still around—a mama dog can get stressed when a male is near the litter. Mother dog feeding her puppies. Conclusion It is a grim and unpleasant subject to discuss, but the truth is that mother dogs do eat their babies. It does not happen often, but when it does, it can be traumatizing for a new breeder or owner. The most important thing to remember is that your dog is only following her instinct. The good news is that you can take steps to prevent this. Provide your dog with a safe, comfortable place to birth her pups. Give her plenty of food, water, and privacy from other animals. Stay nearby to help her if needed. If you notice that the mother is struggling or that something appears to be going wrong, step in and remove the puppy. Then, consult with your veterinarian on how to move forward. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. When female dogs give birth to a litter of pups, it's usually a wonderful experience. Mothers are quite keen to the needs of their pups and will exhibit maternal behavior from the very beginning. It's a beautiful thing to witness! Unfortunately, not all pregnancies go as planned. Unexpected events can lead to the death of some puppies. Mothers can also abandon their newborn babies without any warning. In rare cases, females can even kill and eat their young. While it's a grim topic, it's important to understand why this happens. As humans, cannibalistic behavior is simply unfathomable. However, it's not as farfetched in the canine world. Dogs do not follow to same social and moral constructs that we do. Truth is, there are many reasons why dogs may eat their puppies. Understanding the Birthing Process It can be tempting to intervene whenever your precious female dog is giving birth. It's a big moment and most owners want nothing more than to help ease those puppies into the world. However, intervention is not recommended in most cases. You see, female dogs will usually take care of their young instinctively. From the moment they give birth, mothers know what to do and will act in the interest of the litter. This is even true to first-time mothers that have never been around a pregnant dog. After birth, mothers will free their young from the sac, lick them clean, and bite off the umbilical cord. Within the first several weeks, your dog will spend all of her time feeding and watching over her puppies. She'll leave them alone for a while to go outside and eat. This typically happens when they are sleeping. Over time, she'll gradually increase the amount of time she spends away from her babies. This is to help train the pups to fend for themselves. If all goes according to plan, those puppies will wean off their moms and get to a point where you can intervene and start raising them. Common Causes for Cannabilism If a female dog eats her puppies, it usually occurs immediately after birth or a few days later. As we mentioned earlier, there are several reasons why mothers will do this. It's not exclusive to one breed. It's theorized that this behavior may be inherited, but there's no conclusive evidence to support that just yet. Understanding why dogs sometimes eat their puppies can help you learn more about what's going on with the litter and give you a better idea if you should intervene or not. Accidental Cannabilism Remember how we mentioned that mothers will free their pups from the birthing sac? Well, sometimes things don't go as smoothly as we would hope. After mothers clean off their pups and bite of the umbilical cord, they will eat the placenta. It's a way for them to recover some of those nutrients they lost and regain their strength. In care cases, mothers will accidentally eat stillborn puppies. Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for puppies to die in the womb. Usually, mothers will simply remove stillborns and bury them away from the den. However, it's believed that some mothers can't recognize the hormones of those dead puppies. Thus, they don't even realize that there's a dead pup in the litter. They may mistake the stillborn as another part of the afterbirth and consume it alongside the placenta. Unhealthy Puppies There's still a chance that newborn puppies can get sick and die. Respiratory problems, infections, and a wide range of health complications can prevent a pup from growing up. You can usually spot issues quickly after birth. When puppies aren't spending time with the rest of the litter or aren't able to gather up the strength to eat, there's a good chance they won't make it for much longer. Mothers can spot those signs just like you can. When other puppies are relying on the mother to survive, she will have to make a tough choice. She can either spend her time and energy trying to nurse that puppy back to health, or she will take them out of their misery. In most instances, mothers will do the latter. Killing and eating the puppy removes that health risk for the rest of the litter. It's a mercy killing that ends the pup's suffering and ensures the survival of the rest of the group. Stress Giving birth is a stressful time for mothers of any species. Your dog is tired, scared, and having to deal with an entire litter of wailing puppies. Sometimes, stress can lead to bad decisions for female dogs. Mothers can bark, growl, and even bite those precious pups. Predatory instincts kick in, which can lead to cannibalism in rare cases. There's not much that you can do to alleviate stress other than providing your female dog with plenty of love, food, and attention. It's best to keep the male dog separate, as this has been known to increase stress levels for both mothers and puppies. Just make sure that you're not creating more stress. If you try to intervene and separate her from her puppies, you run the risk of making her angry. She could lash out at you, so exercise caution. Mastitis Mastitis is a very serious condition that affects canine mothers. It's an infection of the breast tissue after birth. The teats can become red and swollen. They also get very sensitive, creating a very troublesome situation for the mother and her litter. Puppies need to be able to feed off of their mother's milk after birth. While pups can be fed by humans through bottles and formula , it's always better for them to eat what their mother is providing. Not only does it have more nutritional content, but it's an important bonding activity. If your female dog has Mastitis, feeding can be an incredibly painful experience. The moment that the puppies latch on, she will experience significant pain. Mothers are prone to lashing out at the puppies because of that pain. Some will even reject puppies or abandon the entire litter. In extreme cases, mothers will kill and eat puppies. Mastitis is a serious issue. But, it's also treatable. It's important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible to address Mastitis and ensure that those puppies are getting the nutrients they need. Hormonal Issues One of the saddest reasons why some female dogs resort to cannibalism is because they simply don't recognize the puppies as their own. During birth, canines produce many different hormones. Some of them are responsible for identifying the pups , which creates that automatic maternal bond. But what happens if those hormones aren't released? This is pretty common if the dog gave birth by unconventional means. Cesarean sections may become necessary if the pregnancy is risky. A cesarean section is when veterinarians remove the puppies from the womb using surgery. Because the puppies aren't born through the birthing canal, those hormones aren't always released. When the mother finally wakes up and is surrounded by a litter of screaming puppies she doesn't know, things can go awry pretty quickly. Dogs are natural hunters with a high prey drive. Think about those rodents and squirrels that your dog chases. They're not that much different in size to newborn puppies. What's interesting about those hormonal issues is that most mothers will get them later on. They may be released several days or weeks after the cesarean section. That's why it's important to follow your vet's orders after birth. Most will separate the mother from the pup to avoid any accidental killings or cannibalistic behavior until she gets those important hormones. Bred Too Young The final reason why a dog may eat her pups is that she just wasn't ready to be a mother. Ask any professional dog breeder and they will tell you that female dogs should not get pregnant during their first heat cycle. This is because those dogs are still relatively young. They're barely any older than a puppy and are not prepared to deal with those maternal responsibilities. It's very common for dogs that get pregnant early to be unfit mothers. They'll lash out at the puppies and exhibit behaviors that aren't normal for mothers. Usually, unprepared young mothers will just abandon the litter completely. However, cannibalism can happen, too. Conclusion Cannibalism is a harsh reality of the animal kingdom. While we often view our dogs as loving creatures that could do no harm, it's important to remember that their instincts are still there. It's rare for mothers to eat their babies, but it can still happen. The best thing you can do to prevent this behavior is to keep a watchful eye. Pay close attention to the health of the puppies and their overall development. Also, monitor the mother's behavior and interactions. If you witness any red flags, such as aggression, you can separate the pup and consult with your vet on how to move forward. Some will come without warning, but others you can intervene and do something about. If a dog eats her puppies, it will usually occur immediately following the birth or within the first few days. Bears, primates, rodents, birds, insects, and reptiles have all been witnessed killing and eating their young, as well as both domestic and wild feline and canines. When you understand why dogs eat their puppies, you can learn more about what is going on with the litter you have to better understand if you should intervene or let nature take its course. Here are some known reasons as to why a female dog will eat her puppies: 1. It can simply be a case of inexperience. When a puppy is born, it is born within a sac that the mother uses her teeth to free her baby. A Mother will also eat the placenta as a way to recover much-needed nutrients lost during the pregnancy. When this is delivered, the Mother may not even recognize it as a puppy and eat it as though it was part of the afterbirth. An Unhealthy Pup Not all puppies are born strong and healthy. Some are sick with infections, respiratory problems, or congenital disabilities that will result in a range of health complications. You may be able to spot a poorly puppy after delivery, but so can Mom. Especially for large dog breeds who are prone to larger litters, there can be just too many pups for a dog to be able to manage comfortably. If she has a poorly puppy who requires extra care and time, she may make the tough decision to take that puppy out of the litter. A Stressed Mom Pregnancy and birth is a stressful time for any Mom, dog, human or other. Your dog will be scared, exhausted, and overwhelmed, which can sometimes lead to bad decision-making. A female dog can lose her temper with an entire litter of wailing pups and growl, bark, or even bite them. With predatory instincts kicking in, cannibalism can be the result in rare cases. There are ways you can help alleviate her stress, but these must be preventative measures, which we will discuss below. If you try to intervene when she is already in a mental crisis, you risk making the situation worse or even ending up being attacked yourself. Mastitis Mastitis is a serious condition that can cause a great deal of pain for a Mom and lead to many complications for her litter too. It is an infection of the breast tissue that can occur after delivery. Her teats will become incredibly sensitive, red, and swollen, making feeding her puppies painful. Mastitis requires immediate veterinary care. Without it a female dog will often still try to feed her puppies while in significant pain. Without medical treatment a bitch can start to reject her puppies or abandon the litter completely. In extreme cases, she will kill and eat her puppies just to relieve her pain. Hormonal Problems This is one of the saddest reasons, and there is very little you can do, aside from rearing the litter yourself. A dog can resort to cannibalism if she does not recognize her puppies as her own young, which would be down to hormonal issues. During the delivery of a litter, dogs produce hormones, and some of them are responsible for identifying the puppies and creating an automatic maternal bond. Generally, pretty quickly, she will tend to them instinctively. But at times, a prey drive can kick in, and she will attack the unfamiliar, noisy small creatures she has discovered next to her. It is advised for a bitch to wait until she is at least one year old. However, different breeds mature at different rates. Therefore it is recommended to wait until a female dog reaches between 18 months to two years of age before breeding. An unprepared Mother can exhibit behaviors that are anything but maternal. She may show no maternal instincts and simply abandon a litter, or she may react in fear of the unknown and resort to cannibalism to get away from the scary, unfamiliar situation she has been put in. We view our dogs as adorable, loving animals who are loyal, friendly, and obedient. But it is important to remember they are part of the animal kingdom with animalistic instincts. It is rare for a female dog to eat her young, but it does happen. Before Delivery Good parenting practices can be identified way before a female dog gives birth. Nesting generally occurs around a week before delivery. In ancient times a female dog would find a cave, or dark den, to reside in from around day 58 of gestation to protect her upcoming litter from predators and the eliminates. Dogs still emulate this instinct today. You can help to get your dog properly prepared by considering a Crate with a cover in the weeks before birth so that the dog has time to realize it is a safe place for her to be. A Whelping liner is comfortable, durable and washable! A relaxed expectant Mom tends to be a better Mom following the birth. Ensuring that your pregnant dog has a high-quality diet will mean that she has the proper nutrients, and energy, to be able to take care of her brood. If you want to increase her nutrition further, you could opt for Multivitamins that are Veterinarian recommended. It is best to leave her alone with some calming treats in the days leading up to the birth, these will be the last few hours of peace she will get for some time, so let her enjoy them. During the Birth Most births run smoothly, are uneventful and no human intervention is necessary. It may also be soothing for your dog to have you there with her. But it is important to not take over. She will start to lick her vulva, pant, and appear anxious but this is all very normal. During the next stage, you will see a bag, containing a puppy, hang out before it should slide away easily. Mom will free the pup and deal with the umbilical cord. The next puppy will come between 15 minutes to two hours later. The majority of issues that can arise, Mom is well-equipped to deal with but there are some signs of an abnormal delivery where emergency veterinarian care is required, these include: A dog actively straining for minutes with no sign of a puppy No additional puppies within an hour, yet you know there are more inside A bloody or purulent discharge Dark green fluid coming out of the vagina before any puppy is born Seizures, spasms, tremors, muscle rigidity, or weakness By taking note of our advised preventive measures, you will significantly reduce the chances of your dog eating her puppies. In addition, I provide dog training tips and tricks through my blogs in Canine Weekly.