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Some of these you can help prevent, while others are out of your immediate control. If your GSD carries the genes for ears that lie down, instead of standing erect, then more than likely they will have floppy ears. This means they may have ears that never stand up and are floppy for life. Breeding Some breeders choose to pair parents that both have large, erect ears. And some buyers and owners prefer this larger style of ears for show or aesthetic purposes. But, there is some theory that breeding a German Shepherd with larger and larger ears might contribute to ears that stay flopped over. Always see the parents of the puppy you buy from the breeder on the premises to see their appearance. Physical Damage or Accidents Puppies are active and mischievous and can get into plenty of trouble. This includes physical damage or accidents that have the cartilage or muscles in their ears. If this happens their ears may suffer long-term damage and not stand up naturally on their own. So watch out for a rough play that might lead to ear damage. And, if your pup has been in an accident that hurt their ears, take them immediately to the vets. Improper and Poor Nutrition German Shepherds need balanced nutrition during crucial growing stages, including vitamins and minerals that aid in cartilage and muscle development of their ears. You should ensure your dog gets the right nutrition from the start to avoid any issues. Along with Vitamin D, calcium helps strengthen the cartilage to aid in building a strong foundation for the ears to stand up later. Neglecting Ear Cleaning Puppies still need ear cleaning when dirt and build-up are overly present. Dirty ears that become neglected can inhibit proper growth and cause discomfort for your dog, causing them to excessively scratch their ears which can cause damage. This could cause them more harm! Instead, wipe away the dirt from the skin of the ear with a warm, damp washcloth or use special ear cleaning wipes. A dog with one floppy ear and one ear upright is totally normal. Occasionally, your German Shepherd might have one floppy ear and one ear standing upright. If they are a small puppy then they are most likely growing and the one ear down still needs time to go upright naturally. These are some of the best techniques that will help their ears to stand up. They only need to sit inside the ear enough to support cartilage growth. Make sure you check for any creases or folds in their ears before moving on to the next step. Repeat in the other ear. Make a Popsicle Support Now, take the popsicle sticks and place them at the top of the foam rollers both ears should have foam rollers in them at this point. You might need another pair of hands to help with this, so ask your family or friends to help. Take the self-adhering waterproof tape and place a medium-size piece across and around the two foam rollers and popsicle sticks. This ensures even and symmetrical growth. Make a bridge across their ears instead. If your German Shepherd puppy is 9 months old and their ears still flop over, please see your vet for further assistance. When in doubt, get your vet to show you what to do for their ears. Your puppy might become annoyed with the tape on their ears, so they may need close supervision and even some distraction during the taping process. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a German Shepherd that has floppy ears and putting them at risk to have any unnecessary surgery to get their ears to stand up can cause them pain. Speak to your vet about the side effects and pain associated with ear implants. You can help prevent floppy ears in your dog by taking the appropriate steps to keep them healthy. The top ways to help a GSD with floppy ears include: 1. Feed them a high-quality food Giving your dog the proper nutrition for optimum growth is a necessity, especially when they are puppies and growing rapidly. Choose a puppy food with the correct ratio of nutrients and vitamins to ensure they get the correct building blocks for development. When you choose to give them treats, pick ones from this list of the best healthy dog treats for German Shepherd puppies. Provide them with the proper chew toys Chewing helps to strengthen the muscles that surround the ears. Or worse… Injure them. Learn to play and discipline a German Shepherd puppy the right way to avoid accidental ear injuries or damage. German Shepherds with ears that are floppy are a joy to own, no matter their age! Floppy ears are adorable and give your dog even more character. Go on, and find out what makes your companion the happiest dog on the planet! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Aug 18, Share German Shepherds have a distinctive look that includes alert, erect ears. For most pups, the ear cartilage begins to harden around week 20, or when the pup is finished teething. At that point, it can take up to 20 weeks for the ears to stand up fully. This can vary by the individual, however. Like human ears, dog ears are made of cartilage. As they grow and gain nutrition, German Shepherds develop stronger and stronger cartilage to support those ears. Typically, puppies at weeks will have floppy ears that occasionally stand up but quickly fall back down. Around week 20, or 5 months, your pup is done teething and its ears will begin to harden and stand. Your vet may have some suggestions to help the process along. If your pup reaches 8 months and still has floppy ears, the chance of them standing on their own is slim. Some breeders try to breed for larger ears, leading to ears that are too heavy to stand up. If strong, alert ears are important to you, be sure to look for a pup with parents that have erect ears. If the ears sustain trauma during that time, it can cause permanent damage to the cartilage. If your puppy gets parasites, it can impact healthy development, which includes the hardening of its ear cartilage. Be sure to take your puppy to the vet regularly and have routine fecal exams to check for worms and other parasites. Your vet can recommend an appropriate deworming protocol for your growing puppy and treat parasites if they occur. However, if you want your puppy to have strong, alert ears, you can help the process along in a number of ways. In an effort to move ear development along, some owners will add supplements like calcium. Chew toys are also good for teething and keeping your puppy occupied. German Shepherds are strong, even as pups, so be sure to choose solid, durable chew toys that are safe and appropriate for your puppy. It should only be used as a last resort, however. If you use tape too early, it can hinder natural development. That said, if you wait until the seventh or eighth month, it may be too late to help. Glue the ends of the popsicle stick to the tape on both ears, horizontally. Once a week, remove the popsicle stick, foam, and tape. If the ears stand on their own, leave them. Related Reads:. It commonly occurs anywhere from eight weeks to six months. So, any German Shepherd parent would know that these adorable dogs have floppy ears when they are just puppies. However, stronger cartilage will be developed as you give them the proper nutrients. It might mostly occur as a response to your call or noise in the surrounding area. It can be a result of poor nutrition or slow development. Your German Shepherd needs abundant vitamin D, calcium, and protein. Lacking these nutrients in their diet will result in weak cartilage. Switch to better food or visit the vet for a checkup. They are still incredibly cute, anyway! If you want to ensure that you have a pooch with perky ears, make sure to look for parents with standing ears. Do all German Shepherd ears stand up? Even if you have already, you can know whether your pooch will have floppy or perky ears when it grows. It can compromise their health and adversely affect their growth, including strengthening the cartilage. Regular checkups and fecal exams can help prevent or abate that problem. Your vet can give your dog deworming medicines to see that your growing furry friend is free from parasites. Any traumatic injury to the ears can cause permanent damage and prevent the ears from growing strong enough to stand. It can be caused by a child pulling its ears and rough play among its littermates. Regularly monitor your pup and keep anyone from playing with its ears when they are in its developmental stage. But there are things you can do to help it get strong and healthy ears. These steps will also protect the ears from possible damage. Get high-quality food for your puppy to boost their development. Cheap foods usually have more fillers that contain negligible nutrients. Keep the puppy away and safe from other puppies that play bite with their ears. Educate your children and everyone else at home on how to handle the puppy carefully and gently. Giving your puppy chew toys will give their head, jaw, and surrounding muscles some exercise. It can lead to better ear development. Make sure to buy durable ones, as German Shepherd pups are stronger than you think! Clean their ears gently if you notice dirt. Keep your dog happy! A happy dog is a healthy dog. It will have fewer or no health problems if you keep the dog fit. Using the tape too early or during its growing stage can harm its natural development. However, the 7th to 8th month might be a little too late. But that may not be true for all, as some German Shepherds are just built differently. Their looks come second when you experience how good of a companion they can make. But the young ones carry cute floppy ears that eventually stand up. Some take longer. Remember that floppy ears do not affect their health negatively. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Especially during the first six months, be extra careful not to aggressively clean their ears. They will be more prone to lesions in the ear cartilage at this time. Yet it would be understandable if you are reading this and feel dismay or even horror. How can that possibly be a good thing? But understand we are not talking about doing anything harmful or invasive. The techniques you are about to read about will not harm or hurt your German Shepherd puppy at all. They will simply support the ears to grow into the upright position without having to work so hard to get there — or stay there. You want to give your pup enough time to try to do this naturally. But you also want to intervene before the cartilage in the ears starts to harden usually around seven to eight months old , leaving the ear flaps in the wrong position. You will need the following supplies: Some type of surgical tape NOT duct tape or any super-adhesive tape. Foam roller inserts or foam pipe insulation cut to size. Two plain popsicle sticks or unsharpened pencils. Wrap the surgical tape around the outside of the ear to hold the insert in place. Be prepared for your puppy to find a way to paw off this strange contraption several times before they finally get used to it and forget about it. You want to leave this in place for a week and then remove it to check the ear position. You may notice the ears start to stand a little straighter week by week. But if you see them flop over again, you need to re-tape them until they are strong enough to stand up on their own. Ear gluing Another option you can try is puppy ear gluing. This is actually not nearly as awful as it sounds and is far easier to do than the ear taping method. Another perk of puppy ear gluing over taping is that you are not going to cut off any air circulation to the inner ear canal. The key is to pick some kind of fabric glue do NOT use super glue or super-bonding glue that may not come off. What you need to do for this method is to add a dab of glue to the outside of the inner ear flap about two-thirds of the way down from the ear tip point. Then press the two ear flaps together for 30 seconds to allow the glue to set. Wherever possible, if you have multiple dogs in your household, try to keep your German Shepherd puppy from playing rough games with the other dogs. Rowdy playtime can easily cause the ears to separate. The glue will wear off on its own after a while and you can observe if the ears are able to remain upright and erect when this occurs. If you need to, keep reapplying the glue until the ears are strong and stable to remain in the correct position without glue. It may take a few weeks or longer for this to occur. Do not worry if the ears are not in a perfect position. As long as they stay upright, the inner muscles and tissues will naturally self-correct over time. Surgery Certain situations may even require surgical implants, like when ear cartilage damage occurs. Massage the Ears Massaging the ears helps by increasing blood flow to the ears, helping your form strong ear: Muscles Cartilage Chew Toys Chew toys are not only great for keeping your pup occupied, but they can also be great sources of collagen. This will help build strong ear cartilage capable of holding the ears in the upright position. Chew toys also work the ear muscles. This will strengthen the surrounding tissues. This is especially true for dogs prone to health issues, like German Shepherds. Foods rich in nutrients like calcium and glucosamine will help your dog form strong and healthy ears. These nutrients are vital for developing sturdy ear cartilage. Stimulation Dogs communicate a lot with their ears. Just think of German Shepherds that are alert and focused on something, like an odd noise they heard outside. Chances are, their ears will be standing erectly. Stimulation like this encourages the use of the ear muscles. There are two areas where you will definitely want to pay closer attention. Bath time and during playtime with other dogs. Keeping water out of the ears will reduce infections and head shaking. Using a headband is an easy way to do this, and can also prevent injuries when playing with other dogs. What causes German Shepherds to have floppy ears? The most common ones include breeding issues, teething, cartilage development issues, trauma, and poor nutrition or hygiene. Breeding Pointy German Shepherd ears are among the top distinct features of the breed. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to improper breeding practices. Teething Floppy ears are a common occurrence when the dog is teething. Developing cartilage German Shepherd puppies are born with floppy ears. As their bodies develop, their ear cartilage and muscles also develop up to the point that they are able to support the weight of the ears, keeping them upright. German Shepherd ears typically start to perk up when the dog is about 6 to 10 weeks old. They can also sometimes flop back down while the dog is teething only to stand up again. Trauma Trauma is a common reason for floppy ears in German Shepherds. Physical trauma caused by an accident or injury to the ears can cause one or both of them to drop. If you suspect trauma, visit your vet to address any wounds and prevent infection. However, their ears need to be kept clean in order to prevent infections that could cause their ears to drop. Dogs not getting enough calcium and vitamin D during puppyhood may have trouble keeping their ears up as their skeletal support structure is not developed properly. They should be well-aligned, symmetrical namely just as wide as they are tall , and carried upright. However, not all dogs will have perfectly standard ears and some may have ears that are too large, too small, too high, too low, or just ears that point in the wrong direction. In fact, there are at least 12 different German Shepherd ear shapes , each with their own distinct characteristics. German Shepherd ears will usually stand up at around 4 months of age. But this can happen as early as the 1-month mark, or as late as the 6-month mark when teething finishes. But more than anything, they tell you how the dog is feeling at any given time. The ears really are the window to the soul for not just GSDs, but all dogs. During this time, more calcium is being directed to the growing teeth, and away from the ear cartilage. When teething is over, and more calcium can be directed back to the ears, they will most likely stand back up again. This is especially true if your pup has sustained an ear injury in the past, and broke the ear cartilage as a result. German Shepherd puppies are especially prone to this during the first 6 to 8 months, since their ears are still developing. These injuries can occur during rowdy play with other dogs and people, or from excessive scratching. This will help their ears develop faster and stronger, and will help prevent ear injuries in the future. But in most cases, if you act fast enough, even the floppiest German Shepherd ears are capable of being corrected. Ear development can vary from puppy to puppy. If they stand up when the puppy is scared or excited or when they bark, you can expect to see fully erect years by the time they are six months old. Will my German Shepherd mix ears stand up? Depending on the genes they inherited, your German Shepherd mix may have erect ears or not. You can support their ear development by giving them chew toys, massaging the base of their ears, and giving them calcium and vitamin D supplements. The ear flap is the outermost ear and is often called the pinna plural is pinnae. A dog has two pinna — one for each ear. Each pinna can work independently of the other, which is part of what gives dogs such keen hearing. This is the same reason all German Shepherd puppies are born with their ears down and floppy. It takes time for the cartilage to form, thicken and then harden into the characteristic erect ear position of the German Shepherd. The ears might pop up as early as four weeks old only to flop back down around four months old. Not only is the cartilage in the outer ears still forming and hardening, but the many muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissues that help the ears move and function are still getting coordinated as well. This is why it is wise not to get concerned about ear position or stability until after your German Shepherd puppy has finished teething. There is just too much growing going on to expect your little puppy to look like a full-grown adult dog yet. This video gives you some unique tips to help their ears get stronger and stand up without human assistance like some of the tips you read about in this article. I get a lot of emails about taping German Shepherd puppy ears. The majority of these emails come from people who are jumping the gun and worrying too much. By that, I mean their pups are 3 or 4 months old and they are starting to panic because their puppy's ears are not standing. I tell these people that they need patience, they need to wait until their pup has finished teething. I caution these people not to jump the gun and tape the dog's ears too early or in the wrong way. I know people who have screwed their dog's ears up for life by doing this. I have had puppy customers who go ballistic on me and panic. So I issue a word of caution here. With that said, the other side of the spectrum of taping ears is something that many people do not take seriously until it's too late. When ears are taped at 7 and 8 months, there is very little chance of it working. This is an unfortunate fact of life. German Shepherd puppy ears can come up between 8 weeks and 6 months. If they are not up when the dog is through teething this varies from dog to dog but in general between 16 weeks and 20 weeks of age , I tell my puppy customers to get very interested in their ears. While it's not time to panic, it is time to sit up and take notice. The first thing to do is make sure that your puppy is in good health. This means no intestinal parasites. Take a stool sample to your vet to have it analyzed. It's also important to make sure the pup is getting good quality food. We feed and recommend a raw diet but if you do feed a commercial diet, I strongly recommend researching all the options available and feeding the highest-quality food you can afford. View our list of all-natural kibble alternatives. In fact, a lot of times, a pup will have both ears up and all of a sudden, they will come back down when the pup starts to teeth. Many owners panic when this happens. But not to worry, I have never seen a pup whose ears did not go back up when this happens. If a pup does not have his ears up by 5 months, I strongly recommend that you get involved with taping your dog's ears. Use the thin white surgical tape the kind that's paper-thin and tears easily. The 3M Micropore tape, 2" wide, works well. I like to use women's hair rollers. Take the plastic out of them and just use the foam. Wrap the ear around the foam and tape them into a tight roll. In a vertical position. Take a popsicle stick and attach it to the top part of both ears. In a horizontal position. The pup is going to tear the tape or stick off the ears several times. The key is to continue to re-tape the ears. Sooner or later, the pup will forget the tape and ignore it. About once a week, take the tape off and see if the ears will stand on their own. Continue to re-tape until the ears stand. If the ears are not up by 7 or 8 months, they are not going to come up. The ears should look like this once taped. The same dog with ears now up. I have seen ears that did not stand, which in my opinion would have stood had they been taped. So this process is not something to take lightly. I also need to say that many ears will be a little weak right after taping but with time, they will strengthen. So when an ear does not stand perfectly after taping don't panic. Just have patience and see what happens. You will really not have an idea exactly what you have until the pup is 12 months old. When ears do not stand, there are ear implants that can be surgically added. I have no experience with this and do not know anything about them. If you are unlucky enough to have a dog whose ears will not stand, I would point you toward a vet that has some experience in this area. I don't think it's something that normal small animal vets know how to do well. In my opinion, too young to tape. The material to use to tape German Shepherd Ears The pup with its ears taped I prefer taping German Shepherd Dogs ears after the dog has finished teething. This usually means the dog is older than 4 - 6 months. Maybe waiting another month would have been a better idea for this puppy.

Photo from: nobilisabs Thanks to some genetic acrobatics, the black American Bulldog deviates from the usual breed colors and patterns. Although most other combinations involve at least ten percent white coverage, the black American Bulldog is completely black. Since all of the color combinations involve some white markings, a solid black coat in the American Bulldog really catches the eye. There is a possibility of expressing some markings on the chest, neck, between the eyes, and the paws, but our interest is in the solid black version. Males are between twenty-two and twenty-five inches tall and weigh seventy-five to one hundred pounds. Females reach weights of sixty to eighty pounds and grow anywhere between twenty and twenty-three inches in height. With a body length that barely exceeds its height, the American Bulldog carries a lot of muscle and has thick bones. American Bulldog puppies can often be overfed due to their immense appetite, so tracking their progress is key. Consider using an American Bulldog growth chart to see if your pup is within the healthy range of weight and height. Although it is related to the English Bulldog, it is significantly taller and more substantial in mass. The athletic body of an American Bulldog was designed for work, so the head is wide, with a muzzle proportionate to it. The small to medium triangular ears are spread wide and hang facing forward. When alert, they are level with the eyebrows or just under the eyebrow line. A strong reverse-scissor bite is possible thanks to a moderately thick neck that connects to well-developed shoulders and a deep-seated chest. The feet and leg bones are perpendicular to the ground without any arching. There is a slight tuck of the loin that accentuates the muscular hind legs. The back is straight except for a small slant at the lumbar spine lower back. The only thing that did not change was the Bulldog part. When it comes to differences, they are mainly in physical appearance, but the temper is slightly different too. The Scott type has thinner bones, less muscle mass, and is of a slightly smaller body frame. A Johnson type will have a wider skull, shorter muzzle, and more pronounced stop. This type was preserved as a working dog, so it makes sense that it is the more powerful of the two. The Scott type is considered a show dog due to its more elegant silhouette. Differing Aspirations In terms of temperament, both dogs have the same protective instincts and unwavering loyalty and affection for the family. They are the utility dog for any home with farm work to be done. The color for the Johnson type is far less important as long as it does not affect its working ability. Although both types are admirable working dogs with great strength, the bully dog is preferred for people who own cattle and need protection from wild animals, with the Scott type being the more popular choice as a family pet. Keep in mind that many a modern American Bulldog is the product of these two separate lines that makes them American Bulldog mixes. If you like stories of breed lineages that result in subtle variations in physical appearance and temperament, I recommend you read our articles on Gator and Razor Edge Pitbulls. Coat And Grooming Both types have the same smooth, short coat that requires almost no effort to groom. The quality of the coat can be soft or stiff, with the latter being more common in the Johnson type American Bulldog. They are low to moderate shedders, but the peak periods of hair-rich homes come with the seasonal coat change. Brushing them once or twice a week should be enough to maintain that hair shine and remove the excess hairs. Since their coat length and quality is similar to that of the Pitbull, this article on Pitbull shedding potential and more will certainly be of help. For a hair-free festive period, Santa put some tips and tricks on stopping Sheddmageddon in your sock. Regardless of their best friend potential for family members, strangers can be a point of concern for them. If you live in an apartment and there are no cattle to manage or intruders to ward off, the high energy levels of the American Bulldog will have to be spent in some other way. Out of the two most well-known types, the Scott and Johnson, the bully breed will be more individualistic and focused on work, while the standard type has a more laid-back approach to life. That is not to say the bigger version does not enjoy the occasional cuddle. An American Bulldog will not bark a lot unless there is a black French Bulldog in the house that reminds it of what it would look like in a compressed black coat format. The standard type will be a tad more responsive to dog training, but both can be trained to do most things other dog breeds of similar type can do. Socialization The challenging nature of the American Bulldog, no matter the coat color, can be kept in check if the dog receives proper socialization from puppyhood. One of their favorite pastimes is a game of tug-of-war, which will prove to be a good strength exercise for both you and your doggie. If you have other dogs in your home, the American Bulldog will be a good roommate, but only if raised alongside them. You do not need to worry about their temperament around young children. They will be protected, and the sizeable lump of a dog will be very gentle with them. Just make sure your kids know how to understand dog behavior and signals that it does not want to be bothered. Small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, etc. If you have the occasional deer, raccoon, or badger visit your home, then they might get the pointy end of the stick. For the black and other American Bulldog colors , there are potential congenital issues stemming from genetic mutations specific to the breed. A quick look into those will provide a more realistic portrait of what to expect when considering getting one, so let us start off with the ones most associated with the American Bulldog breed. Canine Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses CNCL Characterized as a set of debilitating progressive neurodegenerative diseases, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses are a serious genetic mutation that was discovered to affect as many as thirteen genes. Depending on which gene is affected, treatment and prognosis differ, but symptoms often overlap. The only viable diagnosis that can tell with certainty which gene underwent mutation is a DNA test. Symptoms include loss of motor function, difficulty breathing and swallowing, cognitive decline, loss of vision, and seizures. Because only one form of CNCL has somewhat effective treatment, the prognosis is usually premature death. For the one treatable type, a gene found in the Dachshund was used as a model on which to test different hormonal and enzyme therapies. Hypothyroidism A stunted production of thyroxine and triiodothyronine by the thyroid gland is called hypothyroidism. It can be caused by a tumor or have an autoimmune-mediated origin. In dogs, the latter is responsible for over ninety percent of cases of hypothyroidism. The immune system mistakes the cells of the thyroid as foreign bodies and, in the process of defending the body, it neutralizes them. With the damage to structural and functional parts of the thyroid, the production of hormones is reduced, often leading to major clinical signs. Those include lethargy, weight gain without increased appetite, degrading coat quality, increased heart rate, metabolism changes, etc. With varying degrees of severity, hypothyroidism affects nutrient absorption, body temperature control, and cognitive function in very severe cases. Although incurable, synthetic hormone therapy is an effective treatment. This is mostly a congenital disease inherited from the parents, but there have been cases where entropion was caused by injury. It is not a serious condition, and the symptoms are easy to spot. Your dog might have discharge or pus coming out of the eye, increased production of tears, and keep its eye closed eye most of the time. A full physical examination by a vet will give a final clinical picture and concrete diagnosis. Thankfully, the treatment is a routine surgery that involves restoring the skin around the eyelids to its natural and anatomically correct position. Puppies and adult dogs have different kinds of surgery because puppies do not have fully developed faces yet. American Bulldogs are more prone to the congenital variant of entropion due to the shape of their skull, eyelid length, or other anatomical factors. Cherry Eye Dogs and many other animals have a third eyelid that has a protective and functional role. It shields the eye from debris and produces watery content for eye lubrication. Cherry eye simply indicates that the gland is protruding due to inflammation. The protrusion occurs when the tissue connecting it with the lower eyelid detaches. American Bulldogs are among the breeds that are more susceptible to cherry eye, but it is not exclusive to it. Cherry eye is easy to diagnose since the protruding nictating membrane their third eyelid looks like a cherry. It will present itself as a swollen red mass and will usually be confined to the corner of the eye. Surgery of the gland is the treatment for it, and it is important to take your dog to the vet as soon as you notice a red mass in the corner of the eye. If left untreated for a prolonged period, it can swell further and cause more damage to the structural elements of the eye. Hip And Elbow Dysplasia Everyone and their dog knows about dysplasia. It is an inherited condition that causes the head of the femoral bone ball not to develop fully. Without a perfect fit into the hip bone socket , the cartilage between the two bones that provides cushion and smooth movement will become damaged and eventually completely wear off. The ball and socket will grind against each other, scraping the tissue and causing inflammation. Ultimately, the dog is going to develop arthritis, which means pain and difficulty moving. Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs are used to alleviate the pain. Life Expectancy And Food For a large breed dog, the black American Bulldog and all the other shades of it is quite healthy. On average, you will share your home with one for ten to twelve years. Since the American Bulldog is prone to obesity, you should keep calories in check. The American Bulldog feeding chart is the perfect tool that can help you come up with a healthy diet for your dog. Every single treat must be accounted for in the daily calorie limit. Whether you choose to feed it high-quality kibble, wet food, home-cooked, or raw diet, it is important to manage the weight. Protein should take up most of the meals, with fatty acids omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 and vitamins and minerals filling out the rest. If you like the prospect of a raw diet, check out our American Bully raw diet article. Being similar in size and with some common lineage, you can apply the same principles to your American Bulldog. Alleles gene variants found on specific loci locations on a chromosome give instructions on how and where the pigments will be produced. For the black American Bulldog, the first locus where a decision has to be made is the E locus. Here, the decision of whether black pigment eumelanin will be allowed production is made. If there is at least one dominant gene found on the E locus, eumelanin will be produced. Next stop — the K locus. Black is the dominant color on the K locus, but the black in the American Bulldog is not produced by it. Two recessive genes are required for the decision to be passed onto the A locus. Keep in mind that a brindle American Bulldog has a brindle allele on the K locus, which is the second most dominant gene on it. From A To B Since the most common colors and patterns in the breed are determined by the A locus, the black American Bulldog has to carry two recessive genes on it. Usually, it would be white and some other marking color or fawn, but a recessive pairing is required for the full black coat. Thanks to the wide variety of interactions of the A locus with other loci, we see different patterns and colors in most American Bulldogs. One dominant gene B is enough to tip the scale in the favor of eumelanin, giving the dog a solid black coat. Not many American Bulldog breeders will breed dogs with solid black coats. Since it is not desirable for a show dog to be fully black due to the breed being predominantly white the rule is that at least fifteen percent white is required to be able to participate in conformation events. If the breeder does have black American Bulldogs, then a DNA test to rule out genetic diseases is necessary. Indeed, it is a steep price, but the amount of dog you are getting is more than worth it. Always be mindful of ads selling American Bulldog puppies for ridiculously low or high prices. This is most often the mark of a backyard breeder or a puppy mill. This is particularly the case for French Bulldog puppies, as they are the most wanted designer dog breed in the US. Another thing to note is that a black American Bulldog is not eligible for conformation shows. The Pitbull is a mix of the American Staffordshire Terrier and various other breeds from the terrier family of dogs. On the other hand, the American Bulldog is considered to be a purebred dog that has its roots in the mix of the English Bulldog and domestic dogs from the US south. You can find out more about their difference in our American Bulldog Vs. Pitbull article! Note that the American Kennel Club AKC does not recognize American Bulldogs as a distinct breed, so you are stuck with your dog participating in very few events, which mostly include work-oriented challenges. Summary Having reached the end, I only have two things to say. Black American Bulldogs are incredible dogs. Despite the breed standards, color should not play a major role in its temperament. Breeding dogs with recessive genes is a concern, but largely unfounded and lacking concrete evidence in the case of recessive black genes. If the breeder selling black American Bulldogs can provide adequate DNA test results and bloodline records, then the color makes no difference. Liking a dog for its color is not desirable, but if you like the dog first, the black coat will only be a bonus. Most importantly, stay away from shady discounts and dodgy ads to avoid paying thousands of dollars in vet bills. Stay smart, stay informed, and I will write to you in the next one. Post navigation. Articles People often have mixed feelings when it comes to Bulldogs. Some think of them as furious and grim, while people who own a Bulldog know what a lovely companion they are! The American Bulldog is a well-adjusted muscular dog that is energetic, strong, and friendly. American Bully is a successor of the English Bulldog , who was bred to work on fields. However, black is not the correct color for an American Bulldog. Traditionally, American Bulldogs are often white with patches of red, brindle, and black. Apart from mixed shades of white, this dog breed also comes in other colors, including all-white, black, and chocolate. But yes, American Bulldogs can be all-black. Black is among the other four rare colors for these Rocky Bullies. Regardless of appearance, Bulldogs are excellent domestic canines. Before you drive down to get one, let us discuss things that will help you raise your Bully right. This breed reaches a weight of 70 to lbs for males and 60 to lbs for females as they enter adulthood. If you own an average-sized yard, you can easily exercise your medium to large-sized American Bully in your home without taking them out for a walk on busy days. Physical Appearance Black American Bulldogs are rocky, strong, and have a long back that makes them look very upright. Bullies usually stand 2 feet at the shoulder and have a much-positioned body structure. Since Bullies were originally bred to work on farms, they have big heads with powerful jaws. Their ears may be uncropped, rose, drop, semi-prick, or cropped. They have dark brown eyes, round or almond-shaped. Bulldogs have an erect tail, thick at the base, that gradually thins out at the top. Coat Color And Pattern The characteristic black coat on the Black American Bulldogs is due to a certain pigment called eumelanin, whose production depends on the B locus in the cells. These Bullies are black because these expressed B genes are dominant. Black American Bulldogs have varieties of coats that may be solid or patterned. Their black coats are soft and short-haired. They may contain patterns of black, brindle, fawn, or red color on their coat. Image from Instagram: lola. Bullies are a working breed, so obviously very healthy. Exercising is crucial to keep the pooch healthy. While they are comfortable indoors, physical activity is not to be compromised. They are robust and active, so playing outdoors helps them stay healthy and live even longer. However, there are some common health issues of Bulldogs that you may face if not given proper care. Obesity Black American Bulldogs are brachycephalic dog breeds that have shorter snouts, thereby making it harder for them to breathe well. So, obesity will make it hard for your furry friend to breathe. Lack of exercise will make them prone to being overweight. Hip Dysplasia If Black American Bulldogs have been overweight since childhood, they are more likely to develop hip dysplasia in adulthood. In this, the hip joint grows abnormally and becomes weaker. Overheating Black American Bulldogs are not very habitable to humidity and heat. When you are walking or exercising your canine outdoors on a warm day, keep an eye for signs and symptoms of overheating. If you encounter such a situation, lie down your doggie in a cooler place. You can also buy a small pool for your Bully to help them beat the heat. Unlike humans, dogs have three eyelids to protect their eyes. In certain conditions, the third eyelid gets irritated and protrudes. Cherry eye is not an emergency but can be concerning if ignored for a long time; therefore, consult a vet sooner. Your Black American Bully needs at least an hour of exercise every day to stay healthy and away from health issues like obesity and hip dysplasia. Bulldogs have strong muscles, and to maintain them, your Fido requires good playtime each day along with a high-quality diet to increase their life expectancy and keep fit. However, lack of exercise will lead to problems mentioned below: Heart diseases Hip dysplasia Obesity On the contrary, a good exercise routine will help your canine friends in the following ways: Better functioning organs Improved brain function Quality of sleep You can take your four-legged buddy on a good min walk to help them maintain their strong muscles. Some other fun activities are fetching, jolly ball, Frisbee, tug-of-war, and dog toys. High-Quality Diet For Bullies, diet is a vital factor in keeping their muscular body intact. The ideal meal for a Bully can be 2 to 3 cups per day. The high-quality food should be given in two meals. However, the amount of food your canine eats also depends on his activity level, age, and metabolism. The ideal diet of a Bully must consist of carbs, protein, good fats, minerals, and multivitamins. To make sure that your Fido gets all the essentials, you can also get a nutritious Pet Plate for them. For better oral hygiene of your Bully, you can use dental water additives. Such traits are likely to be inherited from generations since these Bullies were bred to perform farm works such as baiting or herding, where dominance comes in handy. Younger bullies are more aggressive than older ones; they bite, nibble, and chew things they should not. But take this normal, it will get better as they grow old. However, to promote a stable and calm temperament, early socialization is mandatory. Separation Anxiety Just like other doggies, Black American Bulldogs suffer from separation anxiety too. Without the proper training, these pooches cannot be left alone for more than 6 hours. When they do, they can become destructive. In terms of destructive behavior, Black American Bulldogs can exhibit chewing of furniture or barking tendencies. As Bullies are companion dogs, they will need lots of attention and play-time. Consider setting them up with a professional sitter or dog daycare center in your absence. Image from Instagram: onyxtheblackamericanbulldog Quick-Learners Black American bulldogs are eager learners and consistent. They can be dominating, so training is necessary to teach them obedience. Hyperactive Black American Bulldogs are hyperactive up to the age of 4 to 5 years. It can get difficult to calm them as all they want is to play and run around. You can provide them with calming chews to compose them. Female Black Bullies are more active and aggressive as compared to male ones. However, plenty of energy is a healthy sign, and you can always use treats or training to wind down. All in all, Black American Bullies are best owned by owners with an active lifestyle and love having an athletic companion for hunting, farming, or protection. Naturally, they are calm, and their behaviors toward strangers fluctuate from friendly to aloof. All these Bullies are vigilant guardians and live for their owners. Do Black American Bulldogs Shed? Factors such as climate, diet, and skin conditions also contribute to their shedding. These Bullies have short coats that do not require excessive grooming. Also, puppies tend to shed more hair, but their shedding levels will reduce as they mature to become adults. Black American Bulldogs are not hypoallergenic. These purebred pooches produce a high amount of allergens. Therefore, people sensitive to allergies must avoid being in proximity. Brush The Coat Twice Or Thrice Per Week You can brush your Fido 2 to 3 times a week to get rid of all the dead hair that may lead to skin problems if not cleaned properly. Brush for at least 10 minutes every three days to maintain a healthy coat. To make things less hectic, you can use the FURminator Undercoat Tool , which helps in removing the deadhead from the undercoat without hurting your pooch. It is safe and effective in reducing shedding with regular use. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. Do not delay bathing your canine for more than six weeks, or it will start smelling bad. Before bathing, use a dryer to loosen dirt, dander skin, and dead hair from their coat. Use a high-quality shampoo for bathing your Bully. This shampoo is hypoallergenic and soap-free, so completely safe for your pooch. Other Grooming Tips Use a hydrating spray to keep the coat moisturized after bathing your Bully. Brush their teeth daily. The price may vary from different places to breeders, but you get a fully screened doggie for temperament issues and health. Bullies are not the most expensive to own. However, purebred puppies may cost you more as they are pricey to breed. Do Black American Bulldogs Swim? No, a Black American Bulldog cannot swim because of their short snouts due to brachycephaly; it is difficult for them to keep their head out of water. Make sure to use a life vest for your furry friend whenever they are near water sources to avoid the risk of drowning. On average, this tiny pooch can weigh between 10 to 20 lbs for females and 11 to 22 lbs for males, and it is no wonder that it is often called a Miniature Pit Bull. A Pocket Bully is a designer dog and, therefore, very expensive. You can carry this tiny muscular canine in your bag easily. His name is Riley. His job—shop dog. We are a scooter shop, and he greets dozens of folks every day. Riley has friends that bring him treats, or just drop in to say hi. He is really famous around Milwaukee. You would not believe how many people remember his name months later when they visit again—usually to see him. He is all white with 2 black spots over his eyes and a few on his nose and the tips of his ears. He is full of life, very intelligent and spoiled and will soon be starting K9 Bodyguard training. He weighs between and lbs. I grew up raising Rottweilers , Pomeranians , Australian Blue Heelers , Jack Russell Terriers and a range of mix breeds that my mother took in when owners would drop them off on their gravel road. He has been the kind of pet that you see in the movies when you are growing up, the one that is loyal, playful, loving and will not leave your side. Even as we speak and it is 2 a. His worst habits are trying to take up the entire couch and it doesn't matter if there are two people already on the couch before he gets on it. No matter what he always awaits permission and grunts when he wishes to climb on. He also has a habit of stretching out on the king sized bed in the middle of the night and pushing you out of his way with his feet. I am a lb. On the flip side, you will sometimes find him curled into a huge ball pressed up as close as possible to you in the morning. Tanner is prone to allergic reactions from his environment and because of this hives have been a common occurrence. We combat this with everything being washed and dried in hypoallergenic soaps and fabric softeners. Their food contains no soy, corn, wheat, and is gluten free which keeps him from having allergic reactions. She is an American Bulldog that weighs in at about 87 pounds. She loves to cuddle, children, play fetch, and her favorite thing is to sleep. She is the nicest and most loving dog I have ever had. She is really good with other dogs and always wants to play. Though I don't think she is that big of a dog others say she is of a pretty good size. She is also very strong, to find out how strong she was I start hooking her up to a harness and having her pull different stuff from around the house and yard. At one point I decided to hook her up to the car and put it in neutral and to my surprise she pulled it halfway down our driveway, which is about sixty feet. But once again she is by far the best dog for a family or just anyone. Though it did take me a little longer to train her than any other dogs, which is strange because she is very smart and has a great memory. She is the funniest dog that I have ever been around. She just does some of the stupidest stuff, like chasing the lawnmower around getting a mouth full of grass every time she tries to bite it, and the funniest is when I'm cleaning my car, she tries to attack the water coming out of the hose. She cracks me up. Leia the American Bulldog playing with the kids. Our take on the Black American Bulldog is that black is just a color and it has always been around. Black was not accepted in the show ring so many people did not breed the black color. Now that Black is accepted in the show ring you see more American Bulldog Kennels breeding for it. That being said we prefer a white dog with black patches over a heavily black colored dog. We have no plans to breed just to produce the black color but there are some nice Black American Bulldogs that we have used in our line in the past. If you are looking for a solid black American Bulldog or a very heavy colored black American Bulldog there are other kennels out there that concentrate on producing that color. Our main goal at Bull Pull American Bulldogs is to produce well structured dogs with good temperaments no matter the color. We do lean towards a more athletic dog with a bullier type without being over done and un-functional. Take a look at our dogs and accomplishments to see what we strive for. Color is the last thing you should look for when choosing to add an American Bulldog to your family. Temperament and health should be the first things you look for. But when it comes to colors our favorite color combination is a white dog with red patches but a white dog with black patches is probably a close second. Bull Pull Kennels has an up and comer named Macho Man that is an almost all white with a black ear patch. Pictures of him are at the top of this page. We will be updating information about him on our males page as he matures.

However, that price can increase significantly, even into five figures, depending on the location and reputation of the breeder. Reproducing requires artificial insemination. These factors increase the investment for French bulldog breeders. The more investment a breeder makes into producing healthy high-quality dogs in good environments, the higher the price will be. The rarer the color is, such as blue, lilac or chocolate, the more you can expect to pay. Certain coat patterns, such as pied, merle or brindle, will also be more expensive. Female French bulldogs and those with blue eyes are pricier as well. Adopting through the French Bulldog Rescue Network is a more affordable way to acquire a new puppy or adult Frenchie. The French bulldog breed is exceptional with many rare characteristics that make them popular among dog owners. But there are also some challenges and things to watch out for. French Bulldog Size Fully grown French bulldogs average 12 inches tall. Adult females often weigh between 16 and 24 pounds, and males reach 20 to 24 pounds. Most French bulldogs will continue to gain weight until about 14 months old but stop gaining height between nine and 12 months. There are also mini Frenchies, also known as teacup French bulldogs. These are bred to be miniature versions of standard French bulldogs, weighing between five and 14 pounds. They typically shed in spring and fall, so you should increase coat brushing during that time to help reduce hair in your home. This can help you save on grooming costs. French Bulldog Appearance Along with breeds like English Bulldogs and pugs, French bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have a shortened snout. Their faces are wrinkly and scrunched, giving them a distinct look, even as puppies. French Bulldog Colors French bulldogs come in many different coat colors. These include neutral colors — such as cream, gray, tan and black — as well as more rare colors like lilac, blue and chocolate. The rarer the color, the more expensive the price of a French bulldog will be. French Bulldog Temperament These pups are affectionate and playful, making them great companions. Training is recommended for French bulldogs since they can march to the beat of their own drum without guidance. Most Frenchies respond well to training, especially when treats are involved. Trainers believe French bulldogs understand commands but are moody and will respond as they feel like it. Frenchies are great family dogs, do well around other pets and prefer companionship. A companion will also allow you to leave them alone for longer periods of time without them getting frustrated. But, of course, another pet will come with its own costs. French Bulldog Activity Level Frenchies are not the best dog if you want a jogging companion. French Bulldog Life Expectancy French bulldogs have an average lifespan of 12 years if well taken care of. If they remain in great health, they can live as long as 15 years. Your veterinarian will periodically examine your Frenchie to ensure he or she is growing properly. Due to their flat faces and short necks, it can be difficult for French bulldogs to use standard feeding bowls. You can instead provide elevated dog food and water bowls to help your pet eat and drink more comfortably. Buying treats, toys or a comfortable dog bed can also help your Frenchie feel welcome in its new home. Download our guide! We offer standard and fluffy Award- winning Award-winning bloodline, guaranteed health Every TomKings parent dog has passed a rigorous selection and examination process before we started our elite breeding program to build the healthiest and most Frenchie-authentic gene pool for our TomKings Frenchies. All of our adult dogs and puppies get the highest quality food and supplements to ensure immaculate health, and they are checked by our vet on a weekly basis. Our purebred French bulldogs come with a TomKings Health Guarantee, that is valid against all genetic illnesses. Instead, we treat all of our Frenchies as family members , let them roam freely in our vast green garden and rest with us in our house. Our Frenchie puppies can play as much as they want and we raise them by teaching all the good manners among dogs and people, including children. Maternal love 12 weeks of maternal love and professional care Spending 3 whole months after birth with their caring mother and siblings ensures that TomKings puppies develop a healthy dog-personality and a well-balanced nature. Before joining their new families in the USA and elsewhere, our Frenchies get all the puppy vaccinations, are dewormed and treated against parasites. They travel in a temperature-controlled and pressurized room not stacked on top of suitcases , and they are watched all along the flight. During layovers, the puppies are taken off the plane and placed in a pet hotel, where they are given fresh food, water and lots of pampering. They are sweeter than any airport scenes in romantic movies. Feel free to reach out to us any time with your questions or to share your joy: we answer you immediately 16 hours a day. Dog Rescue Facilities Sheltering French Bulldog Puppies We need to expand our search beyond breeders for breeds that fall well outside our target range for the average price. One such source, dog rescue facilities, is an excellent option for finding expensive breeds to join your family for a low cost. This is possible because the rescue facilities are often c 3 Non-Profit Organizations. Therefore, they charge nothing but a small fee, which they use to provide food, shelter, and medical care to animals in need. That is, assuming you are up for the challenge and have the homing requirements of raising a puppy who may have additional special needs. You see, to get a puppy from one of these shelters, you have to pass a rigorous test of sorts — a large set of questions are asked to every would-be family. For a small example, they may ask you things like: Do you Rent? How many people live in the house? Are there any existing animals within the home? Are there any young children living in the home? And many others. These questions determine the likelihood that the animal fits into the family dynamics.

Splitting into a separate breed in , the American Cocker Spaniel was the most popular dog in the US through the s and s. While Cocker Spaniels have fallen in popularity since the mids, French Bulldogs have skyrocketed to the No. In the hybrid or designer dog world, the term Cocker Spaniel takes on a whole new meaning. Cocker Spaniels appear commonly in mixed breeds because of desired spaniel traits like a sweet expression, sporting qualities, loyalty, and friendliness. The French Bulldog Cocker Spaniel is no exception, embodying a docile and kind nature and combining it with a small size, moderate exercise requirements, and compatibility with other animals and family members. French Cocker Spaniels make excellent companion dogs, both affectionate and loyal. What is the history of the French Bulldog Cocker Spaniel mix? Bulldogs descended from Molossian dogs of Greek heritage that also gave rise to the Mastiff. The shorter dogs comprised a branch of dogs that would eventually split into three groups once baiting bulls became illegal. One of these groups was the miniature version of the English Bulldog, popularized among the lace workers of Nottingham, England. Toy Bulldogs had already seen outcrossing with rattiers, and more rat terrier-type dogs were sought when enthusiasts took their miniatures to Normandy France. French breeders refined the French Bulldog , and many believe they introduced the Pug for a flatter face and more prominent eyes. Americans finalized the breed standard, insisting on what has become the signature bat ears. Spaniels are one of the oldest breed-types, used to flush game. Land spaniels would eventually divide further into springers and setters, according to Mycockerspaniel. Springing spaniels produced three size variations of prized gundogs from the large Springer Spaniel to the Cocker Spaniel with the Sussex in between. Cocker Spaniels developed a specialty for hunting Woodcock. American Cocker Spaniels, similarly to German shepherds, were developed mainly as show dogs but had differences specific for hunting American Woodcocks in contrast to the Eurasian Woodcock. What is the possible appearance of a Frenchie Cocker Spaniel mix? French Bulldogs are 12 inches tall and weigh up to 28 pounds. They look like miniature Bulldogs but have erect bat ears and a rounder head. Their bodies are low-slung but compact with dwarfed legs, a greatly shortened and broad muzzle, and a short sometimes screw tail. French Bulldogs have a wide range of colors, both standard and rare. Although breeders may charge high prices for unusual colors, they are often not recognized by the AKC. Standard colors for a French Bulldog include brindle, fawn, white, cream, and fawn. Unusual and highly-sought colors are black and tan, solid black, black and white, blue, and lilac. Cocker Spaniels are 14 or 15 inches tall, according to Americanspanielclub. English Cockers are 14 to 17 inches tall weighing up to 34 pounds. Cocker Spaniel colors are almost too numerous to name. Standard colors include black, brown, black and white, black and tan, buff, red, brown and tan, brown, white, and tan, and brown roan, among others. The AKC sites as nonstandard colors such as cream, blue roan, red roan, sable, and blue roan and tan. The Cocker Spaniel is in stark contrast with the French Bulldog, similar in size but with a refined head and proportionately-built, muscular but slender body. Many Cocker owners dock their dogs' tail to stay true to tradition. Your French Cocker Spaniel will likely be gray or black with tufts of white hair, brown, brindle, black, and tan, or fawn. He may have a bobtail or one that does not quite reach the hocks. Expect more refinement in your mixed dog's head and a longer muzzle than a purebred Frenchie's. He may have large bat ears, but more likely will have medium ears that drop along his face. Your French Bulldog Cocker Spaniel mix will have shortened legs, a powerful neck, and a relatively deep chest for his size. He will likely stand about 13 inches tall and weigh 25 to 30 pounds. This video illustrates that unlike some other hybrid dogs, French Bulldog Cocker Spaniels do not have a particularly distinctive appearance This mix has a refined head that retains the furrows in the brow characteristic of a Frenchie. Note the relatively short legs, brown color with a black mask, square-shaped ears, smooth coat, and rather long tail. Will you have to groom your dog like a Cocker Spaniel? French Bulldogs have a short coat with a minimal undercoat most of the time. Some Frenchies do not have any underfur. Cocker Spaniels have medium to long silky hair with a soft undercoat. A show dog is popular for her luxurious flowing hair. However, people who have pet Cockers often shave them short all over, sometimes leaving long hair on the ears and legs. Your French Cocker Spaniel may inherit a short or long-medium coat. More than likely, your hybrid's coat will be longer than a French Bulldogs with slight waves. You should brush your French Bulldog mix's coat twice or three times a week. Her hair likely will not mat like a Cocker's but may collect dirt. Bathe your dog every six to eight weeks, taking advantage of that time to clip her nails. You should check your dog's ears every week for any signs of infection, especially if they hang. Will your dog have specific health issues? While mixes do not typically struggle with quite as many health problems as their parent breeds, they inherit the more common maladies. French Bulldog Cocker Spaniels most often fight patellar luxation, eye problems, hip dysplasia, autoimmune disorders, seborrhea, breathing abnormalities, and hypothyroidism. French Bulldogs live 10 to 12 years while Cocker Spaniels live 11 to 14 years. Your French Bulldog Cocker Spaniel mix could reasonably live 12 or 13 years. Patellar Luxation Common in the toy and miniature breeds, a luxating patella means the knee cap easily pops out of place rather than glide seamlessly in its groove. It is common in Frenchies who have a malformation of their joint connections due to dwarfism. Cocker Spaniels are often born with the condition. Luxating patellas can be hereditary in your French Bulldog hybrid. Hip Dysplasia Unfortunately, hip dysplasia is common in Frenchies and Cockers, making it a possible hereditary problem of your mixed-breed dog. Eye Problems Your French Bulldog Cocker Spaniel mix could inherit protruding eyes from either parent, leaving these structures vulnerable to scratches and other injuries. As Petcarex reports, Cocker Spaniels are prone to cataracts and glaucoma and can pass these to any offspring. Primary Seborrhea Mostly affecting American Cocker Spaniels, primary seborrhea affects the skin to produce excess scaling and greasiness, leading to longterm inflammation. Hypothyroidism French Bulldogs can inherit congenital hypothyroidism as a recessive trait, but it is rare. Hypothyroidism is more common in Cocker Spaniels. If your mix inherits adult-onset hypothyroidism, she will need thyroid supplementation to avoid skin problems and other health issues. Brachycephalic Syndrome Hopefully, your mixed dog will not inherit the entire complex of respiratory difficulties from his French Bulldog parent. Still, you may notice slight snoring, snuffling, and exercise intolerance if your dog's face has moderate shortening. What is your dog's guarding potential? French Bulldogs are very friendly to everyone but may make good watchdogs if they warn you of the approach of strangers. Many Frenchies, however, are not alarmists, seeking affection indiscriminately. Cocker Spaniels, as opposed to Frenchies, are excellent watchdogs. Some Cockers may bark excessively. A few family lines of Spaniels display a phenomenon known as Cocker Rage Syndrome, whereby the dog attacks unexpectedly. Although the syndrome gained Cocker Spaniels a reputation for unprovoked aggression and perhaps affected their popularity, Cocker Rage appears in other breeds and could be a seizure disorder according to Doglistener. Your French Bulldog Cocker mix should be an effective watchdog, warning you of guests and unwelcome visitors alike. However, French Cocker Spaniels are friendly and not afraid to seek affection from anyone. You must be vigilant about socialization, so your puppy does not develop timidity and fear-biting. Do French Cocker mixes do well with other animals? French Bulldogs naturally get along with other animals. You must supervise them with large dogs, so they do not become victims of bullying or serious injury. If you socialize them well and introduce them slowly, Cocker Spaniels are amiable around other animals, especially dogs. They are also small and need monitoring around big dogs, even Labradors, and German Shepherds. The French Bulldog Cocker Spaniel mix is a friendly dog and when socialized enjoys the company of other animals. They like their people best, though, and prefer being the center of attention. You should watch your Frenchie Cocker mix around tiny animals and birds as their ancestors do have a background in flushing and ratting. How much exercise does your dog need? French Bulldogs are exercise intolerant because of their extremely shortened muzzles and dwarfed limbs, but they still require low to moderate daily exercise to avoid obesity. Thirty to 45 minutes a day is a good rule of thumb divided into multiple sessions. Cocker Spaniels do best with moderate exercise, usually about 45 to 60 minutes a day. They do not require the strenuous workouts that some other breeds do but should receive plenty of socialization and mental stimulation. French Bulldog Cocker mixes should receive 35 to 50 minutes of exercise daily. You will have to gauge how many sessions your dog needs and how much you need to restrict him based on how short his muzzle is. Make sure to supply sufficient mental stimulation and physical activities to prevent boredom and provide appropriate socialization. How smart will your dog be? French Bulldogs are not ranked very high in working intelligence or obedience, but most owners appreciate how adaptive they are. French Bulldogs also tend to react positively and appropriately to their environment. According to Dogbreedslist. How trainable and obedient your French Bulldog-Cocker Spaniel is depended on which traits she most inherits from her parents. Frenchies are renowned performers, but they also can have quite a stubborn streak. Cocker Spaniels are eager to please but can have dominant issues or become oversensitive if training does not occur during the critical socialization period between 10 and 16 weeks old. Will your dog be a good family pet? Cocker Spaniels make great family companions, especially if you work on socializing them and avoid potential psychoses in certain family lines. As the smallest members of the sporting group, Cocker Spaniels have a steady temperament and a friendly nature. They bond with all household members. Frenchies, bred mainly as companion dogs, are enthusiastic and friendly. They bond to all members of your family, showing a loving and clownish personality. Your Frenchie Cocker mix will be affectionate and steadfast, requiring almost constant attention. Children French Bulldogs do well with children as they do with everyone else, but they can become vulnerable if kids hang or lay on them. Cocker Spaniels can be nippy around children if they come from unreputable breeding practices. Otherwise, Cockers are gentle with kids. Keep your Frenchie-Cocker away from toddlers unsupervised, but otherwise, she will be a great playmate for your children. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. Should a French Bulldog Mix take after their Frenchie parent, they will be a small companion breed that bonds closely with their families. They tend to have an energetic, playful personality and love nothing more than being with their favorite humans. French Bulldogs tend to be friendly, playful, and affectionate dogs that get along with just about everyone. They tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets. They will even warm up quickly to strangers as long as they have been properly socialized. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from a French Bulldog Mix. You can also meet the mother in person to see what her temperament is like and the behavior she is modeling for the puppies. The breeder should have started some training and socialization, but it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. Frenchies are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes. However, as a brachycephalic breed, they are extra sensitive to heat and also sensitive to the cold. They also do not like being left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can expect a Frenchie Mix to also be a highly adaptable dog. The other parent will introduce their own traits and some potential quirks, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. They could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, or they could inherit some or all of them. They can also be prone to allergies, have sensitive skin, and also a sensitive stomach. Good breeding practices will make a huge difference. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. Although French Bulldogs can sometimes be stubborn, they are eager to please and tend to be easy to train. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward, they can be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. If the other parent breed is also easy to train, then you can expect a French Bulldog Mix to be highly trainable as well. Regardless of owner experience, there are many benefits of puppy training classes. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a mix of both. You will also need to clean their facial wrinkles. Weekly ear checks with cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, a Frenchie Mix is more prone to developing dental diseases later in life. This makes good, consistent dental care for dogs even more important for them. Daily brushing with a dog-friendly toothpaste or using an enzyme toothpaste paired with cleanings at the vet when needed is ideal. Frenchies are known couch potato dogs that are happy to lay back, relax, and cuddle with you. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough for this affectionate little dog. Even though they like to relax, they also like to play and will be energetic when they do. They can also be athletic and compete in dog sports. As a brachycephalic breed, you do need to be careful of overexertion and overheating. But, there are plenty of ways to safely exercise flat-faced dogs to make sure your French Bulldog Mix gets enough exercise. If the other parent breed is also a low-energy breed, then you can expect something similar from a Frenchie Mix. If the other parent breed requires more activity, then you will need to be prepared for the potential of a higher energy dog. Fully-grown Frenchies usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so make sure you ask the breeder about them. This can give you some idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown French Bulldog Mix. French Bulldogs generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span in a French Bulldog Mix. Featured French Bulldog Mix Article. Height: 14 - 17 inches at the shoulder Weight: 26 - 35 lb. Both of these dogs are very friendly and loving dogs. She is calm, intelligent, confident and eager to please. While friendly she is wary of strangers and alert making a good watchdog. She gets along well with everyone and is quite a well mannered dog! She loves to have fun and play too and will need some outdoor space to do this in. She is loving, reliable, brave and warm. Cocker Spaniel French Bulldog Mix Health All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems as all breeds are susceptible to some things more than others. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The French Bulldog Cocker Spaniel Mix might be prone to Eye problems, patellar luxation, Hereditary deafness, Eye problems, Urolithiasis, Reverse sneezing, brachycephalic syndrome, head shakes, hip dysplasia, skin problems, tail problems, Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. A Cocker Spaniel normally gets professional grooming and you might need to do this with your mix. Get ready to invest in a good vacuum and keep your floors clean anyways. Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. What are the exercise requirements? The combination of these different types of breeds should really make a more moderate shedder. Get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! What are the training requirements? Though intelligent, it might be stubborn and demanding. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in. Be extra cautious with online transactions! We encourage you to read these guidelines before buying or adopting a dog. Have you done your research? Carry out the research so you have the necessary knowledge of the pet you are getting. Since owning a dog is a big commitment, you should research about the breed fully to make sure it fits your current lifestyle and budget. Have you seen the puppy? Take time to visit the advertiser's home to confirm if they are genuine. Do not settle for online communications and photos. UK Pets does not verify the authenticity of all advertisers. The advertiser should allow you to personally see the puppies with the puppies' mother. If they keep on giving you excuses why you could not visit their home or the address stated in the advert is not the accurate and permanent location of the pet, consider this a red flag. Avoid online payment Never pay anything online through money transfer companies especially if you have not personally visited the advertiser and seen the puppy, this includes deposit and delivery cost for the puppy. There is also no means to recover your money if issues arise. Before closing a deal, you must have signed a well-defined contract. Responsible Advertiser The advertiser should only release the puppies when they are 8 weeks old or older. They should be responsible enough to know that separating the puppy from the mother earlier results in medical and behavioural issues.

Golden Retriever happily lives with the family and he is an excellent and perfect family dog. He is not a watch dog and might barks when he see strangers around him. Golden retriever dogs are very intelligent and have very beautiful feathery coat. So, if you are looking to adopt Golden Retriever puppy in Kolkata and you are willing to know more about the Golden Retriever puppy price in Kolkata or Golden Retriever cost in Kolkata then you are landed on the right place. We help them and provide pet a new loving and caring pet parents. Please mention in comments if you willing to do free adoption. Golden Retriever puppies are available in gold,white gold, off white, creamy, dark gold almost chocolate colour What we offer is: First see the Golden Retriever puppy, Ensure and feel the quality and if you feels that, this is what you need, then only pay. We only deal with Original Breeds. Happy puppy makes the family more happy. Definitely, you will heard from other mediums, that Golden Retriever cost around 15,Rs ,Rs but please beware of mixed breeds, fake sellers and any type of fraud. Before buying the puppies please check the purity and originality of breed then only buy the Golden Retriever puppy or Golden Retriever dog from them. Below we have given the important things which you can consider while checking the quality of golden retriever baby. Remember Original breed is Original because only original breed should have Good Temperament and Qualities which the Original Golden Retriever breeds should have and Golden Retriever cost in Kolkata depends on that originality only. We will share some below important information here related to Golden Retriever puppy such as: 1. Information of Golden Retriever dog in Hindi such as height, weight, age etc. Name of some Pet shops in Kolkata along with their addresses. Dog should be vaccinated with required vaccination. Vaccination card should be given by the seller. Golden Retriever puppy or Dog health should be good and he should not be aggressive and most important puppy should be happy. Surety of Better breed and for puppies future health 5. Government guidelines has to be following while purchasing and doing sale of Golden Retriever baby in Kolkata with proper documentation. Basic Information of Golden Retriever Dog: Golden Retriever dogs are easy to train dogs because of their intelligence. Golden retriever dogs are very active, playful, gentle and they are best suited for everyone either someone is single, couple or family. Golden Retriever enjoy spending time with family, his eyes is so kind and he is so affectionate that no one will miss to love him. Golden retriever have thick, double and long length coat looks like creamy golden teddy bear. Golden Retriever dogs do not like to be alone for a long time. The life span of Golden Retriever dogs is around 10 years. The height of Golden Retriever adult dog can reach up-to inches and their weight can be up-to kilograms. Golden Retriever dogs are very intelligent and have gentle, even tempered and kind temperament. For Original Golden Retriever breed you can directly contact us. We ensure you and will make sure that you will be not disappointed and you will get the dog which you want. No one can compete us with the given Golden Retriever puppy price in Kolkata or Golden Retriever dog price in Kolkata and the services provided by us. We only deal with best, original and genuine breed. Please make sure while adopting a Golden Retriever dog in Kolkata or any other pet animal either from us or from any other pet shop in Kolkata that the government guidelines should be followed and well documented. Because buying a documented pet animal following government guideline ensures that you will receive the original breed, healthy breed and whatever age of the pet animal was told by the seller would be correct. If you are looking to adopt the Golden Retriever puppy in Kolkata from the pet shop. There are lots of pet shops in Kolkata. R Pet Shop Address: D. Golden retriever cost in Kolkata can vary as we have discussed above. We hope the information shared by us above will help you to adopt original and healthy breed. After all the adopted dog is the one who make our family smile especially our Kids and believe us when you return from your work your dog will do all the thing which makes you happy and to remove all your tensions. Feel free to contact us for any information required on pet animals. Be Happy with Your Pet and give them lots of love. Gopal Sharma 06 Aug 23 Gabbar is now the love of our lives and the apple of our eyes, and we have to thank Flower Pets for that!!! Surajit Dutta 03 Aug 23 We have called at varying times of the day, sometimes with the most basic questions, and he has guided us patiently.Right from guiding us about pedigree, what.A very professional and has a good knowledge about dog.Helped me to get a super quality Labrador at no time in reasonable price. Dada is truly an expert. He always helps us whenever we are in trouble with our puppy. Thank you so much, Dada. The puppy I wanted was delivered to me the very next morning and.I was given clear instructions about diet chart as well as medication. Really appreciate the post sale help I received from Flower pets team. Got a golden retriever puppy early in March from this company and this being my first large breed, I was quite overwhelmed. I received very clear and timely guidance on all the challenges I faced. Genuinely recommend getting your puppy from here. I'm happy with my new pet partner.The owner of the puppy center is very nice person, help me a lot about my puppy. Trust worthy person he is. I will definitely reference to him. Thank you. And Flower pets came in google. I called them and get a quick reply and.We choose black colour puppy. They deliver it to my home at new town kolkata. Now she is our family member, my daughter lover her. Thank you flower pets for all the service and polite behaviour. I love dogs, and I can't imagine living without one. I'm sure this Labrador would make a great friend for anyone who is looking for a loyal and friendly pet. He's also very healthy, which is something that you can always count on in a dog. If you're looking for a dog that will be a loyal companion, then I highly recommend you to contact Flower Pets. You won't regret it! The staff at Flower Pets was.The dog itself is a beautiful, healthy and well-behaved pet. She is friendly and loves to be cuddled. The staff made sure to provide me with all the necessary information to properly care for my new pet and have been very helpful in answering any questions I have had since the purchase. I am very pleased with my purchase and would highly recommend Flower Pets to anyone looking for a new pet. The staff at the.They answered all my questions and gave me a lot of information about the breed of dog I was considering. The dog I bought is a beautiful and healthy animal and the price was very reasonable. I would definitely recommend Flower Pets to anyone looking for a pet in Kolkata. Recommend to all the people looking for dog for sale in Kolkata. After sale service is very good definitely recommend. She is the most beautiful and thanks to flower pet for.Am very happy with the service. Thank you,read more. Golden retriever is very inteligent and tolerant dog breed that is most popular family pet in India. Golden retrievers are generally easy to train and they are loyal and smart companion for not only the signle owners, but also for their family members. We always provide provide golden retriever puppies in Kolkata from verified golden retriever dog breeders. Get your next companion from Us! Golden Retriever puppies are generally vaccinated within their first 3 months. Your pupp's training to grooming we provide total pet service including their health. Get your desired Golden Retriever puppy within a week! Learn More Dog Adoption We are pationate to bring you a healthy and happy Golden Retriever puppy for you and your family. Adopt your next companion with puppy dog zone. There will no compromise with love - promise! Some reviews from little paw owners! My Golden retriever perfectly suits in our apartment. Me and my husband both of us love him as our son. He is so cute and lovely. He is my best ever friend. I never can forgot that day when I meet him first time at Puppy Dog zone Arafat Ali Airport, Kolkata Our years of experience and hard-work made us the most trusted dog breeders in Kolkata.

Use baby steps and go slowly letting your GSD pup get used to their crate. Offer them meals Provide them a few meals either very near or inside their crate for a positive association with their new crate. When you leave As they spend more time inside their crate, work on leaving them alone for very short periods. Step 1: Introduce Your German Shepherd to Their New Crate Spend about 5 minutes, two to four times a day, introducing your dog to their special kennel. Familiarize your dog with the kennel by tossing a high-value food reward near the crate to entice them. Let them explore the kennel and go in and out freely on their own. A fun, squeaky toy tossed inside can sometimes help them explore their crate. Step 2: Feed Your German Shepherd Inside Their Crate When your dog has sniffed the crate and wandered in and out multiple times, offer them a meal inside with the door propped open. Offer several meals, in the same way, to show your dog a kennel is a safe place. After a few meals inside and when they are comfortable eating, begin to quietly and softly close the door. But let them out once their meal is over. Next time, leave them in the crate for a shorter period. This way you reward them for staying quiet, instead of whining. When they enter, toss them a treat as a reward. Close the door quietly and sit in the same room as them for 5 to 10 minutes. You can even sit calmly next to the crate while dropping food into it occasionally. Now, go to another room for a few minutes to leave them alone. Instead, sit in the same room again for a few minutes before releasing them. Increase the time you leave them alone in the room and repeat the previous step upon your return to them. Once you work your way to leaving them in their crate for about 30 minutes, begin leaving them in their crate while you leave your house. Step 4: Crating Your German Shepherd When You Leave the House Leave the house for a short time with them in the crate using the same process above to call them to the crate. Call your dog to their crate anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes before you want to go so they have time to settle in their crate and relax. Tell them to go into their crate, give them a reward, and offer them praise. Leave the house without a big commotion. When you return, quietly let them out of their crate. Their collar could get hung up on one of the bars and cause serious injury or worse! When you take the time to introduce the crate properly, they see it is a comfortable place that has their favorite toys and tasty foods! You must keep this slow. If at any time your dog whines, you have gone on too long! Praise puppy for relieving themselves. Offer fresh water and take them back outside again. Take your pup back outside to eliminate before crating. Let them outside to relieve themselves and stretch. Offer fresh water, cuddles, and another meal. They need to go outside after eating and drinking. Place your pup back in the crate. Play with them and take them for a walk. Supervise them by leashing them to you and watching them closely. Let them outside. Praise them for using the bathroom outside. Throw a ball or work on basic obedience. Return inside and leash them to you to supervise while playing, petting, or letting them rest next to you. Bring them in and let them explore while you watch them. Keep them leashed to you when indoors to avoid any accidents. Offer fresh water. Take up the water a couple of hours before bed. This is to prevent accidents in the crate overnight. Let them stretch their legs in the yard. This gets him too excited before bed. You want bedtime to be a calming ritual. You can make your own schedule based on the typical times a GSD puppy needs to go out. Be sure to watch for these times and set an alarm if you need a reminder. Pay attention to these times and let your dog out: When they first wake up. After their first meal of the day. Before you go to work. Image used with permission by copyright holder How long does it take to crate-train a German shepherd? With that being said, crate-training a dog usually takes longer than teaching him how to sit or stay. Recommended Videos As a general rule, puppies should be left in a crate for one hour per month of age, but they should never be kept in a crate for longer than four hours at a time. By the time your pup is six months old, he should be able to sleep in his crate overnight without having any accidents. Crate-training tips Whether you have a young puppy or an older dog, crate training requires time and patience. You may want to purchase a crate large enough to accommodate his adult size. Leave the crate open in a room where you spend plenty of time. Your pup may wander into the crate without being told to do so. Now you can try closing the door and leaving your pup in his crate. Image used with permission by copyright holder Are German shepherds hard to crate train? While crate training a German shepherd puppy may seem easier than training an adult dog, studies show that sometimes the reverse is true. In fact, many GSD owners will find that this is one of the easiest breeds to housetrain, as long as constant supervision and consistency are required. However, remember that all dogs learn at their own pace. Where should your German shepherd puppy sleep? According to the professionals, your German shepherd puppy should sleep indoors in a crate. Not only does crating your dog at night make housebreaking easier, but it also keeps your dog safe. Puppies, especially German shepherd puppies, explore the world with their noses, which can lead them to mischief. Image used with permission by copyright holder Crate training is one of the most controversial topics amongst dog owners, but research shows that crating your dog can help her feel safe and secure. With time and patience, your German shepherd will come to view her crate as her den , and she might even choose to spend time there on her own. Editors' Recommendations.

Feeding your puppy a high-quality , complete and balanced puppy food helps set him up for a long and healthy life as an adult dog. This raises a lot of questions for first-time and even veteran puppy owners, though. How much should you feed your puppy and when? When should you stop feeding puppy food? Get answers to these questions and more in our complete puppy feeding guide below. Our experts answer your questions and offer advice to help set you and your puppy up for success. What to Feed a Puppy When it comes to feeding puppies, there are a lot of factors to consider. Overall nutrition, breed size and the type of food all play a role. Feeding puppies a complete and balanced puppy food ensures they get the proper nutrition to develop and grow into healthy adult dogs. Puppy foods are formulated with a balance of nutrients to help puppies grow up healthy and happy. Look for formulas rich in high-quality proteins to support their growing bodies. Fat and carbohydrates supply the energy active and playful puppies need, while calcium supports developing teeth and bones and DHA helps support healthy brain and vision development. If you have a large breed puppy, he may benefit from a large breed-specific puppy formula. Small breeds can also benefit from small breed-specific puppy formulas. Regardless of breed size, the food should be complete and balanced for growing puppies. The difference in formulas comes down to the unique needs of large and small breeds. Large dogs have a higher risk of developing joint problems, so a large breed puppy food should include proper levels of nutrients to support their healthy growth and development. Small breeds may prefer smaller kibble so they can more easily chew their food, which helps ensure they get all the nutrients they need. This results in a nutrient-dense, high-energy formula which adults and puppies need to support a healthy lifestyle. As you walk the dog food aisles, you may see both dry and wet puppy food s. This can make it harder to decide what to feed your puppy. Fortunately, as long as both the wet and dry formulas are complete and balanced for growing puppies, you can feed either one to your pup with confidence. You and your puppy may have a preference when it comes to dry versus wet. Feeding a combination of the two is also an option. Use the calories reported on the package to understand how much wet food will replace the dry and vice versa. In this scenario, you could substitute a thirteen-ounce can of wet food for one cup of the daily dry food recommendation. How Much to Feed a Puppy Now you know what to feed your puppy, but just how much food does he need each day? A Labrador Retriever will weigh more at maturity than a Russell Terrier , for example. So, the larger dog requires more food as a puppy. The chart below can help you determine how much dry food to feed your puppy. You should also review the specific feeding instructions on the back of his puppy food and consult with your veterinarian. Puppy Feeding Chart. Following the Labrador feeding chart by age will give you a rough idea of how much to feed your puppy. Labradors are known for their playfulness, and sweet disposition, and are good at fetch which is why you should provide them with the best nutrition to support their growth. Ensure that the food contains the right amounts of protein, carbs, fat, and vitamins. You should avoid feeding your Labrador puppy too much food as they are prone to joint issues, but also avoid feeding them less food as they will be malnourished and not reach their growth milestones. Continue reading to understand how much to feed a Labrador puppy. The amount of food that your Labrador puppy should eat depends on a combination of certain factors such as activity level, weight, type, and brand of food. Heavier and bigger puppies need to eat more food than smaller puppies, and dogs that have active lives will need more calories than those living sedentary life. Fortunately, all dog food contains a feeding guideline on the packaging to get you started. It is important that you create and maintain a feeding schedule for your puppy so that they can maintain a healthy weight and develop good habits. Consult your pet nutritionist or vet, to learn more about how much food you should give your specific Labrador. Labrador Feeding Chart By Age A Labrador can be fed between one and six cups of food depending on their level of activity, age, and type of food. The amount will differ from one puppy to the other as every puppy has there own requirements. Therefore, you should follow a feeding guideline that is indicated in the dog food brands or the one designed by your vet. As a Labrador owner, it is important to understand that the nutritional requirements of your puppy are different at each stage as they grow. Therefore, adult and puppy dogs should be trained to eat the correct amount at the right schedule. Ensure that you keep a Labrador puppy feeding chart with you. Calculating the Resting Energy Requirement RER of your puppy and doubling it can help you get the right number of calories to feed them. Feed your puppy a little amount, in the beginning, to ensure that they are ready to eat. If they are not ready, do not force the food on them. Be patient with your puppy and they will be on puppy food soon. The puppy will be relying less on the milk. When your puppy starts eating all the food you offer them, you can reduce the amount of water and increase the food amount. The puppy will start becoming active and start exploring away from the mother as they no longer rely on the mother. By the end of the week into week seven, the puppy will be able to eat just puppy food. Ensure that you feed them dry food that is full of healthy protein. They should be eating three to four times per day and need about 2 cups of food. Avoid free feeding the puppy as it may be hard to know exactly how much they are eating. Create a feeding schedule as early as possible and this will help them develop good habits in the future. Put the food out for only 10 to 15 minutes and take the bowl away if they do not finish. This can be tricky if you are working but it is important that you maintain their feeding schedule as this is a developmental stage. Three meals per day will help your growing puppy develop their digestive system and ensure that they are getting their nutrition. This is also the beginning of the teething stage and they will be biting a lot of things including hard dog food and chew toys. They should eat about two cups of food distributed over three meals. But you should still maintain feeding them two cups of food but can reduce the mealtimes to twice per day. Watch out for the amount of food your puppy eats to avoid them gaining weight. Also, ensure that they are getting enough exercise to burn off the food. So, you should transition them to adult food. Ensure that the switching process is done slowly to avoid causing vomiting and diarrhea to your puppy. Your Labrador can be fed once per day now and the amount reduced to about two cups of food. Understanding Labrador Puppy Nutritional Needs If you stick to feeding your Labrador high-quality food, be assured that they are getting all the necessary nutrients. However, it is useful to know the types of nutrients that they need and the ingredients to watch out for. Carbohydrates — healthy carbs are necessary for providing energy for your puppy. Sources like barley, rice, and oatmeal are great. Healthy carbs can also be found in veggies such as sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils. Fiber — it helps regulate the digestive system of your puppy and helps the stool become healthier and firm. Sources include spinach, chicory root, and beet pulp. Sources include fish oils, fish, canola oils, and fish. Vitamins and Minerals — are needed for improving the immune system which helps in protecting your puppy from diseases. Veggies and real fruits like cranberries and blueberries are great sources. The frequency of feeding your Labrador depends mostly on their age. Puppies need to eat three to four times per day while senior and adult Labradors can eat one to two times per day. Labrador is a breed that is motivated by food, meaning that the chance of them turning down food is low. Given their nature, it can be difficult to figure out whether they are really hungry or just food obsessed. Since they cannot regulate their eating habits, it is important that you develop a feeding schedule to prevent them from gaining weight. Both types of food provide your dog with the best nutrition they need to grow and develop. Also, check the label on the packaging and make sure that it contains the perfect balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Kibble is cheaper than wet foods and stores easily as it does not require refrigeration. It also helps clean the teeth by removing tartar and buildup when your puppy chews it. Wet food also provides balanced and complete nutrition for your Labrador. It provides more hydration to your puppy as it contains high moisture content. However, wet food needs to be put in the fridge once opened otherwise it will go bad. Some dog owners mix wet food and kibble to give their dogs the best of both worlds. Therefore, most premium dog food brands have different specially formulated puppy food. Puppies can be fed with puppy food until they are about 12 to 15 months old then transition to adult dog food. When transitioning your dog from puppy food to adult dog food remember to introduce the feed gradually for about seven to ten days by mixing small amounts of the adult dog food with the puppy food. Decrease the puppy food gradually every day with a simultaneous increase in adult dog food. This will helps the pup o adjust to the new meal easily. Experienced Labrador Retriever owners will tell you that not all puppies eat a lot. Studies also have indicated that puppies eat more when fed with other puppies or in a group. When the puppy gets to a new home, they might go off the food for the first few days. They might eat a few kibbles and then leave it. Your puppy may also prefer to eat from your hand and not the bowl. However, call your vet if your puppy refuses to eat for more than four hours. Call immediately if your puppy looks unwell. There are a few reasons you need to keep an eye on because they indicate serious problems: Your pup neither drink nor eat Diarrhea. Made with real meat and no artificial colors or flavors how much should a lab eat? Allergies Labs can also have allergies. Some dogs may be allergic to wheat, macadamia nuts, etc. It can manifest as a runny nose, high volumes of shedding, rashes on the skin, and so on. Different dietary needs are crucial, especially if they display allergy symptoms. Avoid all types of human foods. You can give your lab puppy supplements You can get great quality adult dog food and puppy kibble from companies like Royal Canin Labrador Retriever, Blue Buffalo, Canidae Grain-Free, etc. Only adult food must be given to labrador retrievers who have crossed 1. Your puppy needs 4 small meals consisting of half a cup of food per meal till he is 2 months old. From 2 to 6 months, he needs 3 meals daily consisting of 1 cup of food per meal. From 6 months onwards , you can give your puppy 2 meals daily of 2 cups of dog food per meal. Is This A Problem? Yes, this is a major problem! Fat dogs are adorable but also extremely unhealthy. An adult labrador retriever should weigh at most pounds. Labs that are fatter than this stand at the risk of obesity, arthritis , and other lifelong diseases. Refrain from feeding your labrador too many dog treats. Onions and garlic: surprisingly, anything in the onion and garlic family is incredibly toxic to dogs. Meat with bones: if not chewed properly, sharp edges can rupture the throat, stomach lining, intestines, and other parts of the digestive tract. Other human foods and beverages to avoid giving your dog are alcohol, sugar, citric fruits, and anything with caffeine. Your labrador retriever should weigh between 55 to 70 pounds at full adulthood. Male labs are heavier than female labs, so they can fall on either side of the optimal weight spectrum. Some healthy treats for your labrador retriever are cut fruits and vegetables. Carrots, celery, cucumber, beetroot, apples, bananas, and berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, etc. Dogs also love peanut butter! Veggies dipped in peanut butter also make a great snack for your dog. This is entirely up to you as dog owners. If you have the time and patience to cook meals for your dog, go for it. Store-bought food is easier and is filled with the right nutritional requirements for your lab puppy. On the other hand, with the right recipe, home-cooked food works, too. What Should I Do? A dog growling at you when you go near his food bowl is most commonly a trauma response or a way to protect his food. We often see this with rescues. House training your lab puppy is equally important to avoid food aggression. Labrador Retrievers get piddly after their meals. Dog owners must take out their lab puppy as frequently as they eat sometimes even more often to let their energy out and adult labradors less frequently. A lab puppy needs a ton of exercise. The amount of kibble you should feed your Labrador puppy will vary depending on their age, weight, and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to start with cups of kibble daily and adjust as needed. Best Dog Food For Lab Puppies: The best dog foods for lab puppies include those that are high in protein and low in fillers. The food you should feed a black lab puppy is the same as for any other Labrador puppy. A chocolate lab puppy should be fed the same food as for any other Labrador puppy. A 2-year-old chocolate lab should eat about cups of kibble daily. You should stop feeding puppy food to your Labrador at around months of age. At this point, their growth plates will have closed, and they will no longer need the extra nutrients found in puppy food. Labradors live for years. They start to slow down around 7 and may develop some health problems in their senior years. You should also increase their exercise level. Lab breeders feed their dogs high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. A lab puppy should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. This amount may increase as they get older and more active. A labrador needs at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be a combination of walking, running, and playing. Golden labs live for years. Chocolate labs live for years same like labs of any color. Labradors lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months of age. You can start to transition your puppy to eating twice a day at around 6 months of age. By the time they are 1 year old, they should eat only once daily. You should stop feeding your large breed puppy food at around 18 months of age. Why Are Labs So Hungry? Labradors are a very active breed of dog, and they need a lot of calories to fuel their energy levels. They are also prone to gaining weight, so keep a close eye on their food intake About The Author Shradha Kabra Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. Before adopting a Labrador Retriever puppy, many owners go to great lengths to deduce the optimal food for their pup. From raw feed to canned food from a local pet store, there are plenty of dog food options for owners to consider, but which is the best dog food? Whether you feed your puppy a raw food diet or commercial dog foods, there are lots of ways for your pup to consume a balanced diet. There are plenty of sources that will describe the benefits of one diet over another, but remember that no one knows your puppy better than you. The decision to feed your dog a diet that you think is best is yours to make. There really is no right or wrong answer when it comes to selecting a food for your puppy. Your pooch will likely enjoy eating wet food just as much as they enjoy commercial dog food. So long as you feed your pup an adequate amount of food, they are likely to live a long and healthy life. If you would like specific advice about feeding your individual puppy, you may wish to consult with your veterinarian or other dog food expert. When you first bring your puppy home, it can be alarming if your dog does not touch its puppy food during the first few days at home. Is this cause for concern? Noticing that your precious pup is not eating can be a frightening realization. Prior to being welcomed to its forever home, your Lab puppy was accustomed to living with its mother and siblings. Therefore, being uprooted from this life can initially be a startling experience for a dog. Fortunately, puppies should develop an appetite within a day or two of entering their forever home-they just need a short time to adjust to their new life. If, after a few days, your puppy is still not eating their dog food, it may be a wise idea to have your puppy evaluated by a vet. Feeding A Two-Month-Old Labrador Retriever Two months old is about the earliest point at which a Labrador puppy can be brought home by their new family. When a Labrador puppy begins to eat solid food, it will not be eating a ton of food. So, owners can start their Lab puppy off with somewhere around 0. As your puppy grows older and gets bigger, owners should look to increase the amount of food for their Labrador pup. By the time a puppy is nearing three months old, it should be eating well over 1 cup of food every day. Some puppies may be consuming close to two cups of dog food at this time. This increase in size means that their appetite has also surely grown since bringing them home. By the time a Labrador puppy is around 3 months old, it should be eating close to 1. Large three-month-old Labrador puppies can be away a substantial amount of food as they are near four months old. Some puppies will be able to consume around 3 cups of food daily at this point in their lives, but most will be eating closer to 2 cups of dog food every day. If your pup seems hungry and looks to be a healthy weight, there is no need for owners to be concerned about how much food their three-month-old Lab is consuming. Your precious pooch will start to look more like an adult with each passing day. Therefore, it is essential to feed your dog enough food to promote the weight gain that makes dogs thrive. Four-month-old Labrador Retrievers should be given at least two cups of food daily. The biggest, most ravenous Labs will eat close to 3. However, only dogs on the large end of the puppy spectrum will need to eat this much at this time. Average four to five-month-old Labs should eat anywhere from 2 to 3 cups of food daily. Labrador Retriever teenagers are characterized by disproportionate body parts, distracted behavior, and dispositions that range from silly to ornery. Therefore, getting enough food to support such development is imperative. A six-month-old Labrador will surely be able to eat at least 2. This will ensure proper growth for your pooch. As your puppy reaches the point in which it is 7 to 8 months old, continue to increase the amount of food that your puppy receives. Labrador Retriever puppies that are close to 9 months old can eat more than 4 cups of food daily. However, your furry friend is more likely to consume 2. Instead, your pup is likely nearing its adult size. So, how much food should ten to twelve-month-old Labs be eating? Puppies that consume quantities of food on the low end of the spectrum should be consuming at least 3 cups of food every day during this time. On the other hand, large Lab pups that are between 10 to 12 months old could be eating 4. If your puppy is on the brink of adulthood, it would be wise to consider weaning it off of its puppy food in favor of adult dog food. All Lab puppies should be offered adult dog food when they reach maturity, as such food replaces nutrients that are essential for puppies with ingredients that benefit adults. Whereas puppies should eat food that increases their body weight, adult Labs should eat food that maintains their weight. So, if you think it may be time to switch your Labrador Retriever to an adult dog food diet, consult with your vet and find a food that is best for your adult Lab. Of course, the mature size of your pooch will dictate how much food it can and should be consuming every day. Generally, it is advisable to feed an adult Labrador anywhere from 3 to just over 4 cups of food every day. Gauge the weight and appetite of your pet to determine the perfect amount for your furry friend. Though the above recommendation will be perfect for most adult Labs, there are some instances in which mature Labradors will require more adult food. Pregnant Or Lactating Labs A Labrador who is pregnant or lactating will require substantial amounts of food to nourish herself and her litter of pups. Therefore, owners should be prepared to offer vast quantities of food to their Labrador mothers. While a typical adult Labrador will consume 3 to 4 cups of food every day, Labrador mothers should be offered around 6 cups of food at least to keep up with their enormous energy requirements. If your mother Labrador snarfs this food down and still seems hungry afterward, be prepared to offer her additional food. Especially Active Labs If your Labrador is an athletic specimen, it may need to consume more than a typical adult Lab to fuel the exercise regime that such a dog is accustomed to. Dogs that receive more than one hour of daily exercise could be considered especially active dogs. Owners can begin by offering these pooches 4. If they still seem hungry, owners can increase the amount of food given to these dogs. Once a dog reaches the golden years of its life, it is once again time to switch up its diet. Senior dogs should consume food that caters to the needs of their aging bodies. These pooches can get away with eating a low-protein diet whereas such food would not be appropriate for puppies or adults. Given that senior dogs are usually not especially active dogs, they do not require as much food compared to adult and large puppies. Therefore, supplying a senior Lab with anywhere from 2 to just over 3 cups of food daily should be plenty for your pooch. Now that you know how much to feed your Labrador, you are likely curious about the number of times that your dog should be fed every day. Some may be looking for a quick answer about how often to feed a Labrador every day, but the truth is nuanced. When it comes to feeding your Lab, it turns out that Labs of different ages should be fed different amounts of food every day. Read on to discover the perfect number of meals for your Lab. An infant Labrador Retriever should have its daily food allotment broken up into at least 4 meals every day. This will help supply these petite pups with the energy that they need to get through the day. Lab puppies that are four to twelve months old do not require as many meals as their younger counterparts. However, these dogs should still receive three meals per day to support their rapid metabolism. Feeding one meal in the morning, one in the afternoon, and one in the evening is optimal. Adult Labs do not need to eat as many meals are puppies due to their slower metabolisms. Supplying an adult Labrador Retriever with two meals every day would be perfect for these dogs. Ideally, adult dogs will be fed one meal in the morning and one in the evening. When your furry friend reaches the point in their life where they are considered to be a senior dog, your pooch will have the slowest metabolism in their life. The slow metabolism for senior Labs means that these dogs do not need to eat as frequently as they did when they were younger. In fact, senior Labrador Retrievers can get by with eating a single meal every day. One to two meals per day is ideal for a senior Labrador Retriever. Owners can see if their senior Lab prefers one or two meals each day by allowing them to try each option. Is this because these dogs are prone to obesity or simply because there are so many Labs out and about? It turns out that Labrador Retrievers are more prone to obesity than many other dog breeds. Labs have evolved to be very active dogs. If owners fail to provide their dogs with proper exercise and feed their furry friends excessive amounts of food, there is a good chance that owners will end up with overweight dogs. Why Is My Labrador Overweight? If you are someone who owns an overweight Labrador, you are not alone. Overweight Labs are still lovable pooches, but they could stand to lose some pounds for their own good. Obviously, feeding your dog less food is likely to be one of the keys to helping your canine companion to lose weight. However, you may be wondering what else you can do to help your Labrador lose weight. Well, if you do not frequently exercise your dog, then this is a good place to start. Try feeding your dog its typical amount of food but increasing its exercise to see if it starts to lose weight. For those that are still struggling to get your pooch to lose weight, be sure to cut out table scraps and dog treats from the diet of your dog. Moreover, be sure that you are not free feeding your Labrador Retriever. Free feeding is acceptable for puppies when they are infants, but Labradors that are any other age should not be free fed, for this can also result in a chunky pooch. If you fear that your dog is consuming its food too quickly, there are plenty of feeding methods to help your pooch slow down. Obesity in dogs is a serious issue. We briefly touched on this subject when discussing the best foods for Lab puppies, and the same advice will apply here. Some owners feed raw to their Labs, while others may feed kibble. Does this mean that those who practice raw feeding are likely to own healthier dogs compared to those feeding kibble to their dogs? Of course not! High-quality dog food may take many different forms. A raw diet could provide your dog with all of the nutrients that it needs, but it is not inherently better for your dog than dry food or homemade food. Ultimately, owners know their Lab better than anyone else, so they should have the final say regarding what to feed their dog. Deciding what to feed your Labrador can be an overwhelming prospect. Consult A Veterinarian Inquiring with a trusted veterinarian about the diet of your Labrador Retriever will help an owner determine the optimal food intake for their precious pooch. They may also recommend certain dog foods that can be purchased to feed a Labrador. A feeding chart will provide information related to how much food to provide a Lab based on its age. A feeding guide may even break down how much food to feed a Labrador based on its weight. There are plenty of Labrador Puppy feeding chart options and feeding guides for adults. Finding a feeding chart that was created by a trusted source like the American Kennel Club can help you make an informed decision about how much to feed your furry friend. Ultimately, a feeding guide is a good place to turn if you find yourself in need of a quick answer about the topic of how much to feed your Lab. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

Part of that responsibility includes doing everything possible to assure their well being after they go to a new home. While all quality dog foods will provide everything needed to sustain life, virtually all of them are cooked during the manufacturing process. The heat from cooking causes much of the nutrients to be lost during the process. NuVet Plus is cold processed allowing all of the benefits of its rich nutrients to be retained, giving your new puppy an extra layer of protection, especially during the most critical first year of life. When a puppy is moved away from its mother and siblings to live with its new family, the immune system is weakened by the stress of adoption and exposure to bacteria and viruses in its new home. So starting NuVet Plus now is important to helping your puppy grow into a healthy adult. The vaccine series is also started during this time period. Vaccines are only effective if the immune system can respond properly. If the immune system is distracted by combating an actual disease processor and it does not receive the nutrients required to keep it strong during times of stress, the health of the puppy is at risk. The best way to prevent illness during this critical time is to provide the nutritional support required for proper immune system function. About NuVet Plus - NuVet Plus is a synergistic combination of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals known to boost immune system function. FDA registered pharmaceutical laboratory, and cold processed to maximize the potency of the nutrients. NuVet Labs has been in business since and has never had a product recall. Additional information may be found on the NuVet Labs website www. NuVet Plus for Canines and NuVet Plus for Felines provide the very best human-grade, natural ingredients available, and utilize the latest advances in medical, veterinary, and nutritional science. NuVet Plus is not available in stores or directly to the general public. You can only purchase NuVet Plus when you get a recommendation only from a pet professional. Made with Real Chicken Liver. Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting a Pug, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to Pugs". It's written in an easy-to-understand way but still has the expert knowledge to help any new owner successfully raise their Pug from puppy to old-age. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon, or you can download the audiobook version here. If you can't find the perfect Pug puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many Pugs young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos! Website: pug-puppy. At pug-puppy. This is a family of Pug lovers who are about the advancement of the Pug breed as well as the health and wellbeing of each and every one of their pups. The family lives and raises their Pugs on a one-acre plot with plenty of room for running and playing. They even teach their Pugs to swim! All of their Pugs are fed a healthy diet of quality food and vitamins and have the freedom to play with lots of toys. When you purchase a pup from pug-puppy. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time.

From there we began showing dairy goats, angora goats, and pygmy goats in 4-H, FFA, and open shows from .When my son went off to college, we decided to sell off our dairy goat herd and focus on our Pug Breeding Program. Once we were able to focus on our Pug Breeding Program more we began to search for pugs of unique colors that we didn't already own. In I quit my job, and started breeding pugs full time. My new job title is a "Stay at Home Pug Mommy". Instead we retire them and they live out the remainder of their lives here at Tipping Point Farm, playing, eating, sleeping day after day, and spending time with our family. After all, Pugs are the ultimate companion and mans best friend. They will always be there for you no matter what, whether they are trying to cheer you up, steel your food, or give you kisses. With such a large demand for our pugs, I have now brought in my mom's dogs to be a part of my breeding program, so everyone is able to have their own Tipping Point Farm Pug. My Mom owns a farm thirty minutes away from me where she lives and raises her own pugs with help from me. On February 11th, , my first pug, "Cheese", the one who started it all passed away suddenly. The whole family was devastated after learning of her passing and spending so many years with such a great dog. I was heart broken, I lost my best friend. This one dog was the reason behind my whole pug breeding program. I loved this dog so much that I wanted to breed pugs so everyone could have "their own Cheese". After all, Pug love is like no other, you are their world and they become a family member. Even though Cheese is no longer here with us, I know that I am lucky enough to have got to spend so many years with her and have her daughters, grand daughters, and great grand daughters. When it comes to our pugs, Health is our 1 priority and then of course color! From day one, we are directly involved with our puppies, we help them come into the world and love them everyday till they go to there new family. Please feel free to call or email me anytime you have a question or are interested in a pug. Thank you for taking the time to read the Story behind our farm. We are looking forward to hearing from you and your family and to adding a new member to your family. I apologize for this and will be back to keeping up with my website for .As soon as we learned of the diagnosis, we made arrangements to meet with the surgeon. Unfortunately after the scans were taken, a spot was found on his liver which gave him a terminal diagnosis 2 months without chemo, 6 months with chemo. In March of he opted to start a chemo regiment every 3 weeks to hopefully extend his life expectancy. During the next few months him and I created a bucket list of things he wanted to do, which we were able to complete in between his visits to the hospital and chemo treatments. In August his cancer was reassessed to see if the chemo treatments had been working. The results were heartbreaking, the chemo hadn't worked and his body was full of cancer. Within a month of this heart breaking news my fathers health deteriorated, he was back and forth between hospice and the emergency room until he lost his battle to cancer on September 22, .My fathers loss has been extremely difficult, but I am now able to start focusing on my breeding program once again. As of right now we have big plans for .For more information about our plans, please contact me with any inquiries regarding current and future puppies or keep checking back for updates. We appreciate your patience and look forward to adding the newest fur-member to your family. Life Span Did You Know? The Pug, or Pug Dog, is famous for its flat-faced appearance and large, soulful eyes. They are an ancient dog breed that originated in China over 2, years ago. They were originally developed as a refined pet of Chinese royalty along with the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. During this time, the Pug was considered a national treasure that outsiders could only access if one was gifted to them. Dutch traders from the s can be credited with bringing the Pug onto the world stage when they brought some back to Europe with them. The Pug made its way to the United States in the s. Now, the Pug is a popular dog breed worldwide. They are a popular companion that provides their owners with plenty of love and laughter from their comedic and playful antics. The Pug is a playful and outgoing dog breed with a charming personality. They tend to be very loving towards children and also get along well with other pets and dogs. They are a companion breed at heart known for their gentle nature and sociable personality. They love to give love and receive it in return. Their sensitive nature makes them intuitive as well and Pugs will often sense the moods of their owners and react accordingly. They crave attention and affection from their owners and are big fans of napping. This dog breed is often described as an ideal house dog and they are moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size, including apartments. The Pug also adapts well to city or country life and are a good fit for singles or families of any size. Although they are highly adaptable to various living situations, they are less adaptable to climates. Pugs are very sensitive to the heat and overexertion, so they are best-suited to moderate climates. They also love to be with their families and will not be happy if left alone for a long time. As with any dog breed, the Pug has some health conditions to be aware of. In particular, corneal ulcers and dry eye are some potential eye problems that can occur. Additionally, Pugs can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and encephalitis. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see health clearances can help allay concerns for some of these health issues. Pugs are also big foodies. They love to eat! Their love for food means this dog breed is prone to obesity. As a brachycephalic dog, their large head and short snout often cause respiratory problems, which can limit their exercise at times and contribute to weight gain. This will cause them to quickly gasp and snort, which can sound relatively alarming. These episodes are usually not harmful as your Pug is just clearing their palate and throat. The Pug tends to be easy to train and is a good fit for owners of any experience level. They are eager to please their owners and tend to pick up on commands quickly. They are sensitive souls and their feelings can be hurt easily, so they will not respond well to harsh corrections. This dog breed responds best to consistent training that focuses on positive rewards and will benefit from participation in puppy training classes. Pugs have a smooth, glossy, and short coat. Their fur is fine and soft. Although their coat is generally low-maintenance, it will shed throughout the year. Aside from brushing, Pugs only need occasional baths on an as-needed basis. Because Pugs have ears that drop down, they can be susceptible to moisture, dirt, or debris. Checking their ears regularly and cleaning as needed helps to keep them healthy and comfortable. The same goes for their iconic face wrinkles. Daily brushing is ideal, but if your Pug is not allowing you to do that, a few times a week should be sufficient. Getting your Pug used to these grooming tasks as a puppy will help make it a positive bonding experience and a much easier process throughout their life. This dog breed has a low to moderate energy level. Generally, daily walks and some play sessions are enough exercise for this dog breed. They may have short bursts of energy as they have a very playful nature, but they will tire easily. Some Pugs can handle a little more activity and even compete in some dogs sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Featured Pug Article. Learn More How to Care? Keep your pug safe with regular check-ups by your local vet. Learn More How to Groom? Learn More How to Treat? Pugs love food almost as much as they love their family! Use a meal as a training session by handing them one bite of kibble every time they do what you want them to do. Learn More How to Feed? Pugs are always hungry. You could never feed them enough. What Adopters Are Saying Loda welcomed us into her home and introduced all her dogs, answered our questions, and showed us how they manage their grumble. We were able to watch her grow up from birth until the day we picked her up because Loda kept us informed with updates and wonderful pictures. Also feel that pricing was fair. We would definitely buy our next Pug from her no question! Kimberly Artz Oregon Loda is not only the most loving and sweet breeder to her pugs she is extremely reputable! She does everything right including vet visits for new puppies and her home is extremely clean! I have had pugs my entire life and I have never met a breeder more educated and caring for her puppies and mamas. I would recommend her to family and friends for pug puppies. You cannot do better! Laurey Maslyk.