german shepherd puppies for sale in yuma az

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We are a small kennel, located in the gold country of Northern California, a short drive from beautiful San Francisco and Lake Tahoe. We breed and and raise red standard poodle puppies. Our focus is on health and companionship, with the goal to improve the breed, but also to breed sweet pups with temperaments calm enough and suitable for service and therapy dog certification. Our puppies are born in our home, in their own personal puppy room, which by the way is right off our great room and kitchen, in the heart of our home and we are there for the entire whelping process. When the puppies are old enough, they are exposed to any and all sights, smells and sounds that are needed to properly socialize a puppy. One of our goals is for each and every puppy to meet at least 50 different people before they even go to their forever homes. Plus our research has brought us to the realization that over vaccination and early spay and neuter could be shortening the lives of our beloved canines. Therefore we encourage a minimal vaccine protocol and do not encourage spay and neuter until after our beautiful puppies are fully grown. We hope you enjoy exploring our web pages and drop downs that follow, and as you can tell, we are transparent in every aspect of our raising and socialization of these precious puppies. Through pictures, videos, and our 'closed-private' FB group where we post at least one video each and every day of every litters life here at our poodle plantation , and personal visits you can fully see each and every aspect of our breeding program. Now how many breeders can say that. Before there were no red standard poodles. Yes there were reds in the miniature and toy varieties but not the standard size. In the standards there were Apricots. I feel Janet made the greatest impact on the red standard poodles as we know them today. Following are a few kennels that have made a mark on the red standard poodle. Palmares Kennel. Janet Blannin who was Key in the development of the Red color in the standard poodle size passed away .Although the Palmares name lives on. Shangri-la kennel. Ilse Kong passed away in October of .Majestic kennel. Joan Mistkowski started with Shangri-la reds. She passed away in , her daughter took over the kennel and she too passed away in Minarets poodles. Ester Underkofler still breeds, shows, and titles her poodles in among other things agility and obedience proving that standards are more than pretty faces. Leatherstocking kennel. Barbara and Stratfod Deitch were successful in breeding top show quality standard poodles as well as therapy dogs. At this time there are many breeders trying to breed the ever beautiful deep red standard poodles that are conformationally sound enough to show, sweet enough to be therapy dogs, and smart enough to be hunters. I would like to think that my small kennel will do all that and more. COM bottom of page. Puppies expected Spring , we are very excited to produce quality puppies. AKC Standard Poodles raised in a wonderful home environment. Socialized with adults, children, and other animals! We strive to breed for correct structure, to preserve the breed, health, and temperament. The puppies are worked with daily to produce happy, confident puppies with great temperaments from day one when they are born and we are there with them. Puppies are exposed to many things to help desensitize them so they will be confident dogs. They are born and raised in the house. We start grooming at three weeks, and nails cut every 3 days. We use the early neurological stimulation and the early scent intro. Tails are docked long and dew claws removed. Worming and vacnataions per age. A vet check with a health check certificate at 8 weeks old. Our dogs are shown in UKC, and are part of the family. I take them to agility classes for fun and we go on hikes and outings. Of course Standard Poodles don't shed or smell and make great pets. .Brushing required They are very intelligent and eager to please. Puppies are sold with a limited registration unless discussed. Precisely Poodles Precisely Poodles are located in Menifee, California, and assure to provide you with Poodles that have excellent health, amazing temperament, and beautiful appearances. The Poodle puppies in California at this facility are born and raised at home. They are taken care of by the owner, her husband, and their children, and the puppies get all the love, care, and attention of the family. The Poodles at Precisely Poodles are also exposed to other animals as a part of their socialization training. Household activities acclimatize them to household atmospheres. The dogs raised here are family dogs and can be loyal companions because they grow up around other human beings. They are fully socialized, desensitized, and acclimatized. On the website for Precisely Poodles, you can find a lot of information about the Poodle breed if you are interested in the breed but are unsure of how to take care of it should you decide to buy one. The website informs new owners about the proper way to care for a Poodle. The ears of Poodles also have to be checked regularly for wax and mites, which can lead to ear infections if left unattended for too long. Taking care of your Poodle will lead to better health and a better bond between the owner and the dog. Precisely Poodles claims that all their Poodles are also hypo-allergenic as the breed sheds much less hair than other dogs. All pet parents are health tested before they are bred, and you can find relevant information about all tests on their website. You can also contact the website to check for any announcements on the upcoming litters. All their dogs, females and males, have their pictures on the website. Precisely Poodles Details.

Nutritional requirements of a Bulldog What exactly should the diet of a Bulldog consist of for optimal health? Protein from quality meat sources 2. Essential Fatty acids and omegas 3. Natural vitamins and minerals from bone and plant sources 5. Hydration — high moisture foods and drinking water 1. Protein When selecting what to feed your Bulldog, choose a diet with high-quality animal-based protein sources, such as beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, duck, eggs, and fish. As such, protein impacts canine health in many ways, including: Providing consistent energy Forms new skin, hair, nails, and other tissue. Keeps the immune system healthy. Makes hormones, enzymes, and antibodies. Properly balanced fats are essential for optimal health, and also provide energy. Dietary fat we generally refer to as a triglyceride. There are two types of triglyceride, saturated and unsaturated fat. In balance, they promote a healthy coat, skin, eyes, nervous system, control hormones, fuel brain and learning, and reduce inflammation. Carbohydrates, such as vegetables and some fruits, provide fibre, prebiotics food for beneficial bacteria , and antioxidants that are lacking in meat alone. Dogs are carnivores, but they can benefit from some vegetation in their diets for optimal health. Natural vitamins and minerals A raw food diet aims to replicate what dogs evolved to eat in the wild. As such, meat, bone, offal and a small amount of plant ingredients are all important ingredients in the diet of a Bulldog, each adding highly beneficial vitamins and minerals to meal times. Incorporating ground bone in meals or providing recreational bones for enrichment add nutrients that will support digestion, skin and bone health, and mobility. As such, water is a vital nutrient for all cells, systems and functions, including: The regulation of body temperature Maintaining healthy organ function. The digestion and absorption of nutrients. Detoxification; water helps to flush out toxins and waste products from the body. Preventing dehydration which can lead to serious health problems, including kidney damage and heat stroke. Lubrication and cushioning of joints, thereby supporting ease of movement. Discover more about a raw food diet for dogs in our complete. Bulldog raw feeding guide Whilst you could create homemade raw food meals for your Bulldog, dog owners new to raw feeding can often find making their own raw dog food meals complicated. Formulating meals with the appropriate ratios of key ingredients is essential to ensure your dog receives optimal nutrients, so going it alone can seem daunting. The good news is there is a much simpler approach. By choosing a reputable supplier of pre-prepared raw dog food supplier, you can stock your freezer with quality raw food meals at the click of a button. Bulldog Feeding Chart. So, unless you want an overweight, unhealthy, stinky, bulldog, let's establish a few rules. While not always practical, this is very manageable. If your bulldog does not know what you are eating, then they not interested in what you are eating. This will also keep them from loitering around your kitchen and dining areas. It can cause hot spots on their skin. And, they will eventually prefer your food over theirs, keeping them from getting proper nutrition. Do not give in the temptation of their adoring big eyes and little pink tongue hanging out. Trust us, all of you will be much happier in the long run. These sheets project the kind of food, the number of feedings per day based on an expected rate of growth and maturity. This makes it much easier, but still may not be entirely right for your dog. Please, consider the BIG picture here. Choosing the right food for your bulldog will bring a lifetime of benefits. While the right food may cost more per feeding, it usually will save you lots of money in the long run. If your French, American, or English Bulldog is healthy due to a proper bulldog diet, you will avoid many unnecessary trips to the vet, additional supplements, and unnecessary medications. Supplements and medications cost much more than a good bag of bulldog food. We have found that bulldogs seem to do best with lamb, fish, or beef based foods. Many bulldogs have allergies to chicken, so we tend to avoid these. Choose a balanced food, with the right amounts of protein, carbohydrates, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals. This article will not focus on dry vs. A future blog will tackle all of these in detail. Your bully's food should feature all of the following: Antioxidants Animal protein sources, for the best amino acid ratio and superior digestibility A blend of omega fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat Natural fiber ingredients to help maintain optimal digestion and intestinal health Glucosamine and chondroitin to help support healthy joints DHA Docosahexaenoic acid No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy For adult bulldogs, we recommend that you use the Large Breed formula, if offeredeven if you have a smaller bulldog. This formula will help with your dog's weight management and overall nutritional needs. Bulldog Grade does not, however, always recommend feeding your bulldog as much as the manufacturer may suggest. This simply may be too much food. For instance, our 2. According to the back of the bag, we should feed her between cups per day. No way, she would be HUGE! She eats one cup in the morning and one cup in the evening. This is plenty of food for her and easily satisfies her. In other words, she is content and does not beg for food or wait by her bowl between feedings. She is at her proper weight, according to her vet. She is very healthy. All signs that she is getting the right amount of food at each meal. RULE 3: Choose Supplements Wisely Good food should provide just about everything your bulldog will need, so there is little need for additional supplements. Many supplements are full of junk, go rancid, add extra calories and fat to the diet, cost a LOT of money, and do not have many positive benefits. However, if you live in certain climates, maybe where it is warm year round, your bulldog will shed more than usual. Or, you may find you need something extra for tear stains, hot spots, etc. Please do your homework, and remember: less is more! The only supplement we add to their diet is organic coconut oil. Just a tablespoon per day keeps our bulldogs shedding under control, keeps their coats puppy-soft, and adds a few nutrients that are beneficial to them. Ever since we introduced this many years ago, with previous bulldogs , we have not had any tear stain issues: zero hot spots, no other skin issues. Is coconut oil a miracle? No, not really. But, when paired with very high-quality dog food, it seems to help our bulldogs. It should be out the kitchen, easily accessible and climate controlled i. There is a sink to fill her water bowl quickly, and the floor is not carpeted, making it easy to clean up and keep sanitary. Bulldogs do tend to drip a lot of water after drinking. Some drool while eating. These mats can absorb up to 1. They do help keep the area around her bowls clean. This will assist their breathing, chew rate, and ability to swallow while feeding. It will also promote proper digestion and minimize burping. This can easily be achieved with a set of elevated, stainless steel bowls. Don't skimp here. Your bulldog loves to eat, so make it as healthy and enjoyable of an experience as possible! Dirty dishes lead usually have harmful bacteria, which can lead to chin bumps, gastrointestinal issues, and other health issues. It only takes a minute to rinse the bowls out with hot soapy water after a meal. We also clean and sterilize them in the dishwasher at least 2X time per week. Treat them with love, respect, and as you would your children. They deserve the best, as you now have the best dog on the planet. Spend an extra 30 minutes a day with them, giving them your undivided attention. Love them, hug them, and most of all take fantastic care of them! We hope this is helpful. If it is, and you'd like to hear more from us please join our bulldog community at BulldogGrade. However, this is extremely impractical and requires more discipline than simply saying no to your dog. The easiest way to offset your desire to treat your dog for being a good boy is to have low-calorie dog treats on the dinner table like Tricky Trainers Chewy Low-Calorie Dog Training Treats from Amazon. I like these treats as they are ideal for Bulldogs, being only 3 calories each. There are many different types of foods you can feed your dog, such as dry, wet, raw, or home-produced, to name but a few. However, some breeds are better suited to certain types than others. For example, in general, toy breeds are more suited to wet food, whereas giant breeds are more suited to dry foods. So what kind of food should you feed your English Bulldog? English Bulldogs should be fed a mix of dry and wet food. As a brachycephalic breed having shorter noses and flat faces, their short muzzle makes it harder to pick up food, and chewing and swallowing can be difficult. Choose a small kibble with a unique shape and add wet food that is more palatable. High-quality proteins beef, pork, chicken, lamb, fish, etc. The best dog foods will also include additional protein sources, such as eggs and plant-based proteins like vegetables, legumes, and grains. Dry food is also the least expensive and is usually the first choice for medium to large breeds. If you opt for kibble, ensure you choose a top brand that uses high-quality ingredients without added fillers. Cold-pressed foods are cooked at a much lower temperature and quicker than extruded kibble, which allows them to retain more nutrients per bite. My dog has been fed Guru since a young pup and still thrives on it to this day. Canned Wet Food Canned wet food is different from kibble in that it contains a lot more moisture, takes less chewing, and is generally more appetizing. Your dog is more likely to accept wet food than dry treats. Adaptability alone can make many turn to canned wet food, though it is messier because of its water content. As stated above, your Bulldog will be suited to a mix of both dry and wet, and this is exactly what I do. I feed my dog a diet of quality cold-pressed dog food and add some wet food on top. Home Produced Diet Home-produced diets can save you money but cost more in time. This gives you more control over the macros and can put your mind at ease regarding processing and chemicals in factory-made food. The above video only shows you how to make one meal, and you will want to vary the meals you give. Raw Diet Alternatively, you might not find cooking therapeutic but want to control macro nutrition by feeding a raw diet. Like homemade diets formulating raw diets can be difficult, especially if your English Bulldog is pregnant or sick and has different nutritional requirements. Again it is recommended to consult a pet nutritionist. When feeding your Bulldog a raw food diet, you should also make sure you are fully aware of the safe and proper handling of raw foods and associated food safety issues. You can also buy commercial raw dog food products. These range from complete frozen foods to grain and supplement mixes combined with raw. Dehydrated At first glance, dehydrated food might look like dry kibble, but the manufacturing process is different. Dehydrated food is cured raw dog food, so it has a longer lifespan. It is cooked at a slight temperature, and moisture is removed using different dehydration techniques. When preparing dehydrated dog food, you simply add warm water. It is similar in texture to canned wet food but much less processed. Freeze Dried The difference between freeze-dried and dehydrated dog food is, for the most part, cosmetic. Freeze-drying involves cooking by cooling food so rapidly that moisture in it turns to ice. The machine removes said moisture making the end product a brittle, biteable, solid. This food appeals to those who pay attention to where their food comes from. Halo contains fatty acids and antioxidants but no DHA like most puppy foods. This recipe also contains legumes peas , which are ingredients of concern in canine diets, as we mentioned in a previous review. However, as we mentioned earlier, those fancy terms are primarily for advertising, not an actual reflection of the nutritional quality of the food. Also, grain-free diets come with their own cause for concern due to the high legume content. Although pet food makers use various sources for protein, dogs tend not to care whether the meat in their diet is cage-free or what form it comes in whole, meal, or by-product. English Bulldogs are prone to obesity, which is not healthy for any dog but is particularly dangerous for this breed. Flat-faced dogs, including Bulldogs, are prone to breathing issues related to their unusual anatomy. Being overweight makes these problems worse. Most foods come with a suggested feeding guide, but to be safe, ask your vet to help you calculate the ideal daily calorie intake for your bulldog. Your food choice may be somewhat dictated by any emerging medical concerns your pup is experiencing. Allergies, with their accompanying skin and ear problems, are one of the most common issues. We listed several allergy-friendly diets on our list for this reason. Do Your Research Before You Buy A Puppy Yes, you want to feed your English Bulldog puppy a healthy diet, but food can only do so much if your little dog comes with a host of inherited medical conditions. Our best value pick, Purina One , is both cost-effective and convenient. Royal Canin Bulldog features breed-specific nutrition. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains is free of ingredients from China and loaded with nutritious extras perfect for the Bulldog. We hope our reviews of these puppy diets help you navigate the crowded landscape of the pet food industry as you search for the best option for your wrinkly baby dog. She got her first cat at 5 years old and at 14, she started working for her local veterinarian. Elizabeth spent more than 20 years working as a veterinary nurse before stepping away to become a stay-at-home parent to her daughter. Now, she is excited to share her hard-earned knowledge literally--she has scars with our readers. When not writing, she enjoys reading, watching all sports but especially soccer, and spending time outdoors with her family.Read more Advertisement. The potential benefits of raw Swapping Puppy Food Brands When you first bring your Bulldog puppy home you should feed him the same food that he was getting from the breeder or shelter for about three to four weeks. This will give him time to acclimate to his new surroundings and get used to being separated from his mom and siblings. Mix about three-quarters of the puppy food he eats now with one-quarter of the new food for the first two to three days. For the next two or three days give him equal portions of the old and new food. Finally, give him three-quarters of the new food and one-quarter of the old food for two to three days. Bulldog Puppy Diets The sheer number of different puppy foods to choose from can be overwhelming. Your breeder may be able to give you some guidance. Puppies need plenty of protein to promote strong bone, muscle, and joint growth. Guidelines on labels will give you an idea of the amount to feed your puppy, but ultimately each dog is an individual. Their body size, not what the label says, is a better indicator of a proper portion. A serving size can also vary depending on the type of food or brand as well. Special Requirements Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed. Chewing and swallowing can also be a problem. This is because the palate, teeth, tongue, and tissue are the same size as that of a dog with a much longer muzzle. Many Bulldogs also suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome which causes serious breathing issues that can also make eating difficult. You might also find combining dry food with a good quality wet food is easier for them to consume. From three to six months, you can reduce it to three times a day. At six to 12 months old, you can feed him twice a day. Bulldogs are highly at risk for hip dysplasia. In fact, this study of 20 English Bulldogs found that none of the hips showed normal development and .Feeding a Bulldog Puppy Kibble Dry kibble is probably the most popular all-round puppy food choice. Make sure you choose a dry formula designed specifically for puppies. However, not all brands are created equal. Stay away from ingredients like corn. Puppies with allergies Physical Traits That Will Impact Your Choice Having a very short muzzle can present some challenges with lifting up and munching on food. English Bulldogs can also struggle sometimes with swallowing their meals, and with taking in sufficient oxygen while they are busy eating. Bulldog puppies often also have teeth that are overly crowded together in their smaller mouths. Rounded, triangular or other unique-shaped kibble are ideal, avoid the traditional large square bits. And if your English Bulldog puppy is still having a tough time with chewing, mix dry kibble with some wet puppy food. Portion sizes Begin by following the amounts listed on the packaging. How often to feed English Bulldog puppies Little and often is always the best approach when feeding a puppy. I start my puppies off with four meals a day, spread evenly over the daylight hours. Best dried food for English Bulldog puppies These three brands make some of the best food for English Bulldog puppies. You will notice each food is enriched with special nutrients, minerals and vitamins. Those that your English Bulldog puppy needs to develop healthily in every way. Royal Canin Bulldog Puppy dry dog food Royal Canin creates tailored recipes for the unique needs of different puppy and dog breeds. This has the same unique S-shaped kibble. Best canned food for English Bulldog puppies The best food for English Bulldog puppy can end up being a combination of dry puppy food mixed with a bit of wet puppy food. It also makes learning how to grab and chew the dry kibble just a bit easier! For both puppies and adult dogs, wet food can be more palatable than dry kibble. It is designed in a complete and balanced nutrition puppy formula. A great choice to mix with the Purina Pro Plan dry kibble, to help your English Bulldog puppy learn how to grasp and chew solid food! There are no artificial ingredients or by-products in this wet food either. Packed with vitamins, lutein, taurine and fish oils, your English Bulldog puppy will have the nutritional support to make the extra work of eating worth it. This is a great choice to mix with Royal Canin Bulldog puppy dry food for a little extra mealtime incentive! Best food for English Bulldog puppies with food allergies Treating food allergies in puppies often requires two phases: allergy testing and a limited ingredient diet. One of the known triggers for food allergies in dogs is grain. So the best puppy food for Bulldogs who have food allergies is often a grain-free diet. Plus DHA and plenty of vitamins and minerals to help with digestive support and immune system health. The kibble is a unique triangle shape which can be easier for your puppy to grab hold of and pick up. Best food for English Bulldog puppies with sensitive stomachs Finding the best dog food for English Bulldog puppies can sometimes be a challenge because of their unique anatomy. This can sometimes lead to digestive disruption. A limited ingredient diet may ease tummy upset, gas, diarrhea and other symptoms of a sensitive stomach. There is very minimal processing and no artificial additives of any kind. The kibble is both round and rectangular, offering a nice mix of shapes to help your English Bulldog puppy grasp it more easily. There is no corn or beef, both of which can be a source of digestive upset in puppies. This limited ingredient puppy food comes in two recipes: chicken and oats or lamb and rice. Both recipes include plenty of glucosamine and chondroitin, calcium and phosphorus. As well as vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, bones and immune system. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. The answer, however, is surprisingly simple. Commercial food itself is not necessarily the healthiest way to feed our pets, it is the most convenient way to feed our pets. Of commercial food available there is certainly a range of quality. We recommend that you do not use the very cheap supermarket brands. The more expensive super market brands are ok, especially if you are balancing it with plenty of quality home cooking. The best commercial foods include the following: Hills Probably our best choice Royal Canin Eukanuba Advance Which of these should you feed? The most important thing when choosing a commercial food for your pet is that he or she must like it, and it must agree with them. Canned versus dry: Another myth! There is no difference in quality between canned food or dry food, just the quality of the actual brand. This, to us, is an indication of a poor quality food. Open a can of Hills and there is no bad smell. The food itself is quite firm and looks good, this is an indication of a high quality food. So if you are using better quality foods, by all means give your pet a mix of dry and canned. They will love the choice and variety. Pets, like us, should have variety in their diet for both physical and mental health! Home cooking and table scraps, the good stuff! Ideally lamb ribs minimum portions and never a single rib , or lamb necks for dogs, and chicken wings or necks for cats The above in itself is very good however in addition to this, supplements such as a few sardines once or twice weekly, the odd egg, and vitamised finely blended green leafy vegetables such as spinach or silver beet are fantastic. Whether you are using home cooking entirely or just adding the occasional correct table scraps to whatever commercial food you are using, keep some of the following suggestions in mind: If your pet is a little prone to weight gain, just like us humans, watch the carbohydrates and fats. The biggest mistake people make is giving their overweight pets rice, pasta, bread and potatoes. These carbs go straight to the waist line. Lean meats of any sort are great. Do not feed spicy foods or rich foods, but lean meats. If using commercial foods, ideally use an appropriate life stage food such as puppy, light for overweight individuals, senior etc. If not using a quality commercial puppy food, make sure to add a calcium supplement for puppies, unless you are feeding quality bones times weekly. Lamb ribs never a single rib and necks times weekly is actually a better source of balanced calcium and phosphorous, so supplements are only needed for puppies on home cooked diets without bones. Our strong recommendation, feed bones to puppies from 6 weeks of age. There are lots of myths about feeding supplements such as yeasts, seaweed, vitamins etc. Give your pet a varied diet with lots of natural raw meaty bones and table scraps. Therefore, it is very important to keep an eye on what your dog is eating. Correct eating will make sure that your bulldog is living a healthy and happy life. Also, proper feeding saves your Bulldog from diseases and strengthens his immune system. Knowing the basics: You should provide your Bulldog a pan with flat bottom and straight sides to make sure that your dog eats comfortably. Using a bowl made up of stainless steel is better as it has a linger life than a plastic bowl. A plastic bowl should not be used for food or water. Stainless steel bowls can be easily cleaned and have less bacteria as compared to a plastic bowl. The food should be given in two meals. Every dog has individual requirements. The diet of bulldogs should have a mix of sources which provide adequate proteins, carbohydrates, healthy fats, minerals and vitamins. How many times should I feed my Bulldog? The number of times a Bulldog should be fed varies in different stages of his life. The following table illustrates how many times a dog should be fed at various ages: Age.

A blockhead labrador puppies are a bouncy bundle of black, yellow, or chocolate fun and energy. Versatility is the middle name of good litter. A Lab might be a rescue dog, an assistance dog, a hunting companion, a therapy dog, or work in law enforcement. If you decide to show your dog in conformation or to compete in obedience or agility field trials, once again, buying blockhead labrador puppies are a very popular choice. Because of their happy go-lucky attitude, Labs are great with children and adults. When it's time to planning for your family to choose a pet, you probably can't go wrong with a blockhead labrador puppies if you are an active family on the go and want a pet who will be on the go, too. A Lab is never happier than when he's with his family or his person. The blockhead labrador puppies is a sporting dog, as classified by the American Kennel Club and other breed registries. The Sporting Group includes the other retrievers from different litter, such as the Golden Retriever and the high forehead Retriever, as well as the English setters, spaniels, and pointers. The breeds that make up the Sporting Group were all bred to work alongside and help out hunting community. A blockhead labrador puppies hunting skills varied according to the purpose for which they were bred. But most of the dogs in the Sporting Group has some characteristics in common. First, they are intelligent and quick to learn. Training blockhead labrador puppies is easy when you have learned how to motivate the dog. But these Labs can also think for themselves, and when they do, training can be a challenge. Rescue dogs are also athletic and busy, especially as puppies. They need daily exercise and activities. Without enough exercise and an occupation to keep them busy, these dogs can get into trouble. A blockhead labradors are sporting dogs. If you are never planning to hunting with your dog, you will have to find other ways to keep him active. Blockhead labrador puppies for sale. Stop right there! A breed standard is a detailed description of the perfect litter of that breed. The standard is written by the national breed club, using guidelines established by the registry that recognizes the breed such as the AKC or UKC. The first section of the breed standard gives a brief overview of the blockhead labrador puppies history. Next is a detailed description of the head and neck, then the back and body, and the front and rear legs. The standard then describes the ideal coat and how the Labs should be presented in the show ring. It also lists all acceptable colors, patterns, and markings. Then, there's a section on how the dog moves, called gait. Finally, there's a general description of the Labs temperament. Each section also lists characteristics that are considered faults or disqualifications in the conformation ring. Superficial faults in appearance are often what do distinguish a pet-quality dog from a show- or competition-quality dog. However, some faults affect the way a dog moves or his overall health. Faults in temperament are serious business. English Labs are also known as conformation Labs, show Labs, and bench Labs. They are bred to meet the physical ideal described in the Labrador breed standard. The best examples even compete in conformation competitions like the Westminster Dog Show or Crufts. Blockhead Or Box Head Lab? Both terms describe a distinctive physical feature of Labradors from English breeding lines. Anyone who knows their Labs will grasp your meaning from either. But, block head is the more commonly used term. The Labrador breed is broadly divided into two different types. But several different names are used interchangeably to describe each type. Which can make matters confusing to the uninitiated. They tend to be slim and relatively lightly built. Their heads are also a relatively streamlined interpretation of the description given in the Labrador breed standard. On the other hand, English Labradors are bred to match the physical description in the breed standard as closely as possible. This has resulted in several notable physical differences with the American variety, including broader heads. So conformation-type English Labs have block heads, and working type American Labs usually do not. Besides having broad skulls, they also tend to have slightly shorter muzzles than working dogs, and a more pronounced stop the angle where the muzzle meets the forehead. Their coat is often a little longer and thicker. They are more likely to still have an otter tail, which starts off thick at the root and tapers towards the tip. But besides a blockhead English black Lab you can also get a blockhead chocolate Lab, and a blockhead yellow Lab. How heavy can a blockhead lab be? A typical female Labrador weighs between 55 and 70lbs, whilst most male Labradors weigh between 65 and 80lbs. English Labradors tend to be an inch or two shorter than American Labradors as well, so that the way they carry their weight makes them look more heavily built. As in any population, some individuals may be natural outliers. Or in other words be heavier than 80lbs. Puppies from big parents are more likely to grow up to be big themselves. The differences between the two types of Lab exist due to generations of breeders making breeding choices based on slightly different priorities. English Lab breeders look for sires and dams with perfect looks and conformation show titles to continue their breeding lines. American Lab breeders look for dogs with lots of field trial champions in their pedigree. Because they prioritise working success over perfect resemblance to the breed standard, American Lab appearance has gradually diverged from English Lab appearance over time. One such change is a shift towards more slimline faces with longer, more slender muzzles and a less prominent brow. But both types are still instantly recognizable and equally acceptable as pedigree Labs! English Blockhead Lab Temperament Obviously there is more to a box head Labrador than just their head shape! English Labs are often said to be more calm and placid than American Labs. Successful show quality English Labs also need to be rather good at sitting around and waiting patiently for the next thing to happen. And they need to be unfazed by lights, noise, handling and large crowds of people and dogs. However, the differences between English and American Labs are also, to an extent, just generalizations. Both types belong to the same active, energetic breed, and English Labs should still be capable, competent working dogs. So a blockhead Labrador Retriever can still be bouncy, high-spirited, tireless, and need several hours of exercise a day to wear out! Labradors of both types should be friendly, devoted, and people-focused. Some people are drawn to a blockhead Lab vs regular American Lab because they think they are more impressive to look at. Whilst other people have heard that an English blockhead chocolate Lab will be calmer and more chilled out than a chocolate Lab from working lines, and like the idea of the dog who requires less effort to look after. English Labradors still need at least two hours of exercise a day, and lots of interaction and mental stimulation. They are best suited to households which have plenty of time for walking, training, and playing games. Adult blockhead Labs are usually described as being patient and affectionate with children, but they can be boisterous and bitey as puppies. All types of Labrador are playful, especially as puppies, so if you have enthusiastic teenagers it can really help with sharing the task of occupying them. The pedigree for each parent may also show several conformation champions. Show champions are identified by the prefix CH before their registered name. The prefix GCH means grand champion! Beware of breeders who specifically advertise block head Labs for sale rather than English or conformation Labs. This reveals a lack of understanding and knowledge about the breed. It also suggests a preoccupation with breeding exaggerated big head Labrador dogs. In fact, the Labrador breed standard specifically penalizes dogs with overly large heads. A wedge-shape head… is incorrect, as are massive, cheeky heads. For example, a naive or unscrupulous breeder who wants to produce puppies with very boxy heads may choose sires and dams based purely on the shape of their head. They might even forego health testing, or ignore poor health test results. They might also choose dogs with poor temperaments. Their puppies might end up looking the way they want, but they could end up with heart breaking or expensive health problems. Or behavioral problems which are difficult to overcome. Block Head Lab Block head Lab is a description applied to Labradors from conformation or show type breeding lines. Block head Labs have broader heads than dogs from working lines, with a shorter muzzle and more pronounced brow bone. Overall, their entire body is broader and stockier too. Walk away from breeders who compromise these things to achieve a particular look instead. Find Out More. We have AKC English Lab puppies for sale Our goal here at Winter Valley Labs is to breed excellent dual purpose AKC Labrador Retriever puppies that make great companions and family pets, that also have the ability to excel in the field as well as show ring. And of course, in our hearts. We breed for quality, not quantity. We breed English Lab puppies! Each of our litters is carefully planed and bred with purpose. We are a small breeder in Hatley, Wisconsin. Our love and passion for Labrador Retrievers drives us to better the breed and provide families with healthy, happy, perfect pets, companions and hunters. We have been breeding labs for over 10 years, and look forward to that number growing. We bred our first litter in January of .We hope to grow in size now that we have the room for it. We love to take the dogs out bird hunting, and am excited to get them started on waterfowl this year as we are located on the river. I have been around dogs my whole life, but the lab has always been my favorite. I started studying at the UW of Stevens Point for Wildlife Ecology and Captive Wildlife management, and had done some study in veterinarian medicine but complications with pregnancy forced me out. I decided after my first son was born that I wanted to stay at home with my babies anyways both human and canine. So I am now a stay at home mom for all of our babies. Prior to that I had worked at an animal shelter as well as a grooming and boarding facility. I am doing some online studies for genetics and animal behavior, as I am always striving to be very well educated with the dogs. I am an avid hunter and LOVE spending the days outside with the dogs. Please note; We do not breed silvers, charcoals or champagne. We do not breed labradoodles, golden labs or any other designer breed. We do have English lab puppies for sale- We breed Fox red lab puppies, yellow lab puppies, black lab puppies, chocolate lab puppies and white lab puppies. Fox red and white labs are registered as yellow labs! These ARE akc recognized unlike the dilute colors. Click here to see what english lab puppies we have that are ready to go and looking for their loving forever homes! Our focus is on the English Lab breed. Please contact us for more information on any of our wonderful English Lab puppies, or upcoming and planned litters! We will help you find the perfect puppy for your family! All of our English Lab puppies are vet checked with the vaccines that are needed and also wormed. They also have their dewclaws removed. If in any case a dew claw, or partial dew claw grows back, that will be the buyers responsibility to take care of, if they feel the need to do so. This can be done at the time of spaying or neutering. This is not a common thing. All of our English Lab Puppies are placed with limited registration Pet homes only If you are looking for full registration Breeding rights Do not wait until pickup day to discuss this with us.

They date back hundreds of years and are also known as British Bulldogs. They are a muscular, well-built dog with a wrinkled face and a pushed-in nose. This breed has won the hearts of generations of families for decades. They are considered to be one of the most popular dogs breeds in existence today. These fantastic puppies have gained popularity worldwide due to their playful, loyal, funny, and caring personality. They are laidback and tend to get along well with just about anyone or anything. They have very approachable demeanors and enjoy the companionship of their family. They also have a very easy-going personality which is one of the reasons they have remained a popular family dog. The English Bulldog does enjoy activity time and burning off energy, however, is not an overly energetic breed of dog. The correct ratio of meat-based protein and micronutrients, as well as healthy carbs and fats, will keep your dog feeling and looking his best. Most people recommend feeding this breed two meals each day, spaced about twelve hours apart. This will help to ensure the dog is provided with the proper nutrients he needs. It is also important to remember to provide your dog with proper dental care. It is suggested that his teeth get cleaned a minimum of three times a week. Failing to keep his teeth clean can contribute to health issues. Although properly cleaning his teeth will take some practice to get good at, in time, this will become easier for you and your pup. The English Bulldog grows to be between fourteen and fifteen inches tall. At maturity, the English Bulldog weighs between fifty and fifty-five pounds. The average life expectancy for this breed is between eight and ten years. English Bulldogs require regular bathing and grooming. It is suggested that they are bathed as frequently as every week up to no more than every four weeks depending on their activity level and lifestyle. This smooth coated breed does best with routine brushing which is essential to maintain healthy skin and a healthy coat. Frequently Asked Questions What are some of the health issues English bulldogs are likely to face? The English bulldog has various health issues with the most alarming being cardiac and respiratory complications. English bulldogs are also prone to dyslexia in the hip due to their relatively large body size. Skin infections are also a concern do to the wrinkly and folds nature of the skin. What is the lifespan of an English bulldog? The English bulldog can live up to years on an average scale. This is usually due to the numerous complications and health challenges the bulldog faces in the course of life. How frequently do English bulldogs shed? English bulldogs shed more frequently during the cold seasons like winter and spring. Compared to other dogs, they shed rather moderately and even lesser as they age. How hard is it to train an English bulldog? This breed of dog is known for its stubborn nature and can be really difficult especially for novice dog owners to get the hang of. Patience and routine should be the keywords when dealing with a bulldog. Are English bulldogs good watchdogs? The English bulldog has a natural instinct to protect its territory. Even though the bulldog is not usually much of a barking dog, in the case of an intruder it is well equipped and confident to take on the challenge at every cost. Are English Bulldogs dangerous to their owners? The English bulldog is not a dangerous pet. It is very much territorial and somewhat apprehensive to unfamiliar faces, but once it warms up to you, the bulldog is one of the most loving and loyal dogs. How much exercise do English Bulldogs need? The English bulldog on average needs about 30minuites of exercise every day to keep it mentally and physically healthy. Are English Bulldogs family dogs? The English bulldog may seem aggressive at first glance but you will get to find that they have a contrasting character to their appearance. They are perfect around children and can play all day. They are extremely lovable and friendly. How big do English Bulldogs get? English bulldogs can weigh up to 50 pounds and can grow as tall as 15inches. Male or female English Bulldog? This depends solely on the owner as both genders have their specific pros and cons. English bulldogs are very friendly and warm dogs and are amazing around children. No wonder they are one of the most sought-after breeds in the world. Are you interested in purchasing a English Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. Have you made the decision to add a bulldog to your growing family? Bulldog Champion has an assortment of dogs for sale in Las Vegas, offering the most outstanding range of adorable puppies bred from champion blood. Give your new best friend a home they will love forever and shop for quality breeding. Bred with love and care, the puppies of Bulldog Champion are ready to take on the world. All of our bulldog puppies in Las Vegas come with a clean bill of health and full vaccination record. Whether you are looking for an English or a French bulldog, we have a number of playful, curious little pups who are sure to melt your heart. Create the Perfect Environment for Your New Puppy At Bulldog Champion, all of our puppies are part of our family, and they are excited to become part of yours. A range of personalities are on display, including active, playful puppies to gentle and loving dogs. Our puppies come in a range of colors, including cream, fawn, white, blue grey and black, including combinations. All puppies are fully vet checked before they go home with their new families and look forward to long and happy lives. These wonderful breeds are the perfect new friend for families young and old. Are you interested in seeing how a bulldog can change your life? To find out about the puppies we have on offer, contact us today at .What you should know to buy quality breed Bulldog General appearance in the first impression the dog makes as a whole, and should be first considered. One will notice that the bulldog breed standard, unlike most other standards, never mentions measurements, nor minimum and maximum sizes, but only proportion. The perfect bulldog is a question of being well-balanced.

The average price will also depend on the conditions in which the puppies are being raised — a reputable breeder will only sell his or her puppies in a clean and healthy environment. It should be noted that it is not ALWAYS more expensive to purchase a puppy from one of these areas — especially if you locate an excellent breeder. Some breeders may charge more because of the high demand for German Shepherds in these areas. Virginia has many cities that fall into the cheapest category for purchasing a German shepherd puppy. Generally, however, you will find that smaller towns charge less than larger metropolitan areas. You can find German Shepherds in most parts of Virginia — so keep looking. If you go see the puppies and they appear unkempt or ill-treated, this should also be a cause for concern. Your breeder should provide you with a clean and healthy environment for your new puppy. When you find a breeder that you feel comfortable with, be sure to ask lots of questions. Breeders are usually more than happy to share their wealth of knowledge about the breed. There are a few key questions you should ask your breeder before purchasing a German Shepherd puppy from them. Some questions you may want to ask include: Are the puppies kept in a clean environment? What kind of food are they eating? How far along in age are the puppies when they leave for their new homes? Do they offer any kind of medical care or guarantee? These questions should give you an idea about how much effort and care goes into raising German Shepherd puppies. A good breeder will have no problem giving you the contact information of happy customers who have purchased puppies from them in the past. When speaking to references, be sure to ask about the quality of the puppy, how well the transition went and if there were any problems after taking the puppy home. References can be a great way to get an idea about whether or not a breeder is reputable. They should be on site when you visit your potential puppy. Make sure that both parents are healthy, friendly and well-tempered. Healthy German Shepherds typically live between years; so be sure to inquire about their health history. An honest breeder will tell you about any potential health problems that may arise due to genetics or environment. German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, strength and obedience. They are often used as working dogs in law enforcement, search and rescue, therapy and other service-related roles. German Shepherds are known as a very loving and devoted breed. Not only do they bond strongly with their owners, but they also fully accept family members and children as part of their pack. They can be somewhat wary around strangers until they get to know them. They are relatively active dogs that need plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. You can also ask for letters of reference from veterinarians who have treated the puppies in the past. Meeting past customers will give you a good idea about the quality of the puppies the breeder is producing, and it will also help you to determine if the breeder has a good reputation. Remember, we are looking for breeders who offer healthy, well-socialized puppies at an affordable price. If you are getting a puppy from a breeder, it is important to ask if they have a good veterinarian they use. A good breeder will take their puppies to the vet for check-ups and will also have their vaccinations records up-to-date. If the breeder cannot provide you with the name of a good veterinarian, this might be cause for concern. It is also important to ask how often the breeder takes their puppies to the vet for check-ups. A reputable breeder will be more than happy to answer all of your questions. If you come across an ad for German Shepherd puppies that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be on the lookout for the following signs of an unethical breeder: The puppies are being sold at a very low price The puppies are being sold online or through classified ads The puppies are very young and have not been fully vaccinated There is no contact information listed for the breeder The breeder does not have a good reputation If you see any of these signs, it is best to walk away and find a reputable breeder. You can also report them to the Better Business Bureau or your local animal control agency. German Shepherds are a breed that is known to be susceptible to a number of health problems, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat and cancer. It is important to ask the breeder if your puppy has any health problems. A good breeder will be honest about any health concerns the puppy might have and will also provide you with a guarantee that the puppy is healthy. If the breeder does not offer a guarantee, this is another sign that you should walk away. A reputable breeder will always stand behind their puppies. Many new owners choose to buy a crate so that their puppy has a safe and secure place to sleep and relax, but others prefer to use baby gates or exercise pens instead. Before bringing your German Shepherd home be sure to puppy-proof your home. This means removing any items that the puppy might be tempted to chew on, like electrical cords or furniture legs. You will also want to make sure that there are no poisonous plants in your yard. It is also important to have a designated area for the puppy to potty. Puppies should be taken outside regularly to eliminate, and you will want to make sure that there is always a spot in your yard where they can go. If you have other pets in your home, it is important to socialize them with the new puppy as soon as possible. German Shepherds can be dominant dogs, so it is important to make sure that they know who is boss. Also, be sure to set a good example because they will look to you for guidance. Be prepared for a lot of love, kisses and muddy paws. Potty training a puppy can seem impossible at first, but with dedication, it is completely achievable. Before bringing your German Shepherd home, make sure that you have everything you need for potty training. This includes everything from food and water dishes to pee pads and poop bags. When you start this process, it is important to choose a designated area where the puppy will eliminate in your yard or in the house. Pee pads are also an option if your dog does not want to go outside in cold weather. You should always take your German Shepherd Puppy outside when they wake up, thirty minutes after eating or drinking anything, before bedtime and about minutes after playing. If the puppy eliminates in the designated spot, be sure to praise them and give them a treat. It is important to be patient and consistent when potty training a German Shepherd Puppy. With a little bit of time and effort, your puppy will be successfully potty trained in no time. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Puppies are currently 6. Puppies are home-raised, exposed to children, other dogs, and interacted with multiple times a day each and every day - we truly LOVE them! They will make great family pets! Mom and Dad are AKC registered and puppies will come with paperwork for registration. Puppies have been vet checked, dewormed, and received their first shots. One is already spoken for so don't delay or you'll be missing out on your perfect new family member! Contact via text or call xxxxxxxxxx or email xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxx. Virginia German Shepherd puppy looking new home, 2 months ago, first set shots and dewormer. Buy Now German shepherd puppy Finney is a beautiful black and red girl. She is smart, alert, and ready to be your best friend! Buy Now Puppies born June 11, Have one male and two females puppies for sale. He loves to play even before he could open his eyes or walk. He will be ready for his new home on September 17th. His father is a champion long coat from Germany with pink papers and his mama is an import long coat from Serbia. Both parents are on site. He will come home with a toy, blanket with mamas scent and his AKC limited paperwork. Dads list of shows won and pedigree information available at this link. You may meet our pups in our home before submitting your deposit to hold your pup. We only accept payment via PayPal or Cash to avoid any scams. We will not send you any codes nor will we reply to anyone stating they will need one from us. Thank you for looking! Obsessed Buy Now German shepard puppies 8 weeks old. Puppies are currently 5. Puppies will also be vet checked, dewormed, and receive their first shots before going home. View Detail German shepherd 8 month German shepherd male Fully training. AKC registered. He is potty trained. This is a short-haired white german shepherd and is known for their love of water. The White German Shepherd is a majestic looking dog and has the appearance of a polar bear face. He was born on June 15, and is now two months old. He has been vaccinated,vet checked, and dewormed. This beautiful pupy deserves a loving and caring owner. Contact Tammy at xxx. Buy Now German shepherds puppiez sheperd puppies available looking for loving home. Will come with first set of shots and dewormer. More information please message me. Long coated west german showline. Red and black. Due the middle of August. Picture and video is from a previous litter. Mom 4 yrs old dad 5 yrs old. Call to make appointment black and tan , bage ,orange-red we call her Foxxy 5 girls 1 boy. She has had 2 vet visits with all shots and dewormed. Her colors are black and tan. We have had shepherds for over 20 years and being a breeder is such a pleasure. She is ready for adoption. She comes with AKC papers and vet visits. Shepherds are the 2nd most popular dog. They are intelligent, loving, loyal and great guard dogs.

German Shepherds can live in apartments as long as the owner is responsible and provides the dog with some basic essentials. Without physical activity, mental stimulation, crate training, obedience and socialization training, GSDs can become destructive in a small home. However, many German Shepherds have managed to thrive in apartments. That said, there are things to consider before you bring a GSD back to your apartment. Keeping big and energetic dogs in small spaces boils down to management by the owner. Read on to learn the ideal way to keep a GSD in an apartment. The first thing you must consider is the apartment complex. Not every apartment building allows dogs, especially dogs of this size. That being the case, make sure to consult with your landlord or apartment company before you go ahead and bring home a German Shepherd. Often times this ban is city-wide, according to the Breed-Specific Legislation. I personally think this is absurd because not all dogs are the same. Regardless of what I think, this is the reality of apartment complexes and is something you need to consider. Be Honest About Your Dog A common mistake that many owners make is being dishonest with the landlord It will come back to bite you! Some dishonest owners may claim that their German Shepherd is a Labrador Retriever or a Husky to get past a breed-specific ban. In the end, this can create a lot of trouble for you — both legally and financially. Just take a moment and think about it. After all, they need their walks and daily play. Physical Exercise German Shepherds are herding dogs with the mentality of a working dog. As a result, they have a ton of excess energy that needs to be depleted on a daily basis. The problem with apartments is the the lack of a large enclosed backyard. Can they really run around in a square foot home? Of course you could hire dog walkers, but it really takes away from bonding with your dog. Daily activity not only keeps them physically healthy, but also mentally stable. According to the American Kennel Club , these dogs need around 2 hours of exercise a day. Sounds like a lot to you? For example, hiking is a favorite among those with active lifestyles. If your apartment complex has a pool and allows dogs, then swimming is another fantastic opportunity to work out your dog. If not, look for a nearby lake or large pond. I tend to play fetch for 15 minutes before I leave for work. After dinner, he gets a good 30 minute walk. We go out in the back frequently, and we work on mental things inside and out. German Shepherds that love swimming will easily get a great workout in an hour of dog paddling. But do make sure to take it slow. Playing catch with a ball or frisbee is a favorite among dog owners with all types of dogs. German Shepherds will love this and it requires a lot less effort on your part. There are a ton of other great ideas for exercise , you just need to put in the effort and time. Mental Stimulation This is another important factor to consider if you plan to bring a German Shepherd into the apartment. In fact, this may be equally as important as physical activities. German Shepherds are some of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. And, they should be treated as such. Smart dogs need a lot of mental stimulation and German Shepherds are no exception. In addition to a couple hours of physical exercise a day, I would highly suggest daily obedience training or puzzles to stimulate their minds. We suggest a little bit of obedience training every day, as these dogs are fantastic workers. But make sure to bring plenty of dog treats! One of the best ways to provide mental stimulation is with dog puzzles. Here are some of my favorites that we bought for our dogs. Place treats in the mat and let them search for snacks! The best part about puzzles is that it takes a lot less time than physical exercise but is nearly just as important. A little puzzle can go a long with with your German Shepherd. Dog Crate and Training While in the apartment, there are a few things that you absolutely need. Early on in puppyhood, one of the most important and arguably your biggest one-time purchase is a dog crate. But, why do you need a dog crate? So for indoor dogs, you need to housebreak them. Crate training is not cruel for your German Shepherd. That would cause more anxiety and stress than necessary. Midwest Homes iCrate — This is the best dog crate, hands down. It has all the features you need and want, plus more! AmazonBasics Dog Crate — If Amazon puts their name on it, you can bet this is an excellent dog crate. Perfect, if you want to save a little. Note: Always buy a dog crate for the full adult size of your dog breed. Why We Love These Crates Considering limited space in an apartment, you can probably get away with a 42 inch for a female or smaller German Shepherd. We picked these dog crates for a number of reasons. The first is that they all come with a divider panel as an option or standard. Divider panels are necessary because your a German Shepherd grows very quickly. Since most apartments are relatively small, you want to be able to collapse these large crates into a compact carrier for storage or transportation. Proper Obedience Training We already know obedience training is great for mental stimulation, which is absolutely necessary for any big dogs living in small apartments. However, obedience training will be crucial for another reason. German Shepherds are not quiet dogs. As a matter of fact, they will bark if they perceive danger. They are guard dogs, after all. An untrained German Shepherd will most likely bark at these sounds, causing problems with those around you. Plus, my Corgi goes into a barking frenzy. Sound familiar? Remember to always use positive reinforcement with your GSD. If you can, try not to yell at them. If they start barking, you should ignore them. The second they stop, give them high praise and even reward them with a treat. This is positive reinforcement. Socialization Training Living in a dog-friendly apartment means that there will be other dogs around — probably all the time. I think its best to heavily socialize German Shepherds with everyone and everything. GSD owner German Shepherds are large dogs and without proper socialization, they can seriously hurt and injure a smaller dog or child. Socialization can come in many forms. You can also bring them to dog parks on the weekends to play with other dogs. Socializing at an early age makes them less intimidating to others dogs and people. This provides them with more opportunities for exercise, but also helps with socializing. A lack of mental and physical stimulation means that your German Shepherd will take it into their own hands to receive these basic needs. Destructive behavior may occur without these key necessities. This means that your favorite pair of shoes may be torn apart. Or, that your couch gets ripped open after a long exhausting day of work. Apartment living with German Shepherds is no easy task. However, not all German Shepherds are the same. Some will take a little more work, while others fit right in. Are there other tips you have to making apartment life work with a German Shepherd? Leave a tip in the comment section below to let us know! Also, if you have any questions, feel free to ask away. Posts you may like:. Tweet Pin75 Can a German Shepherd live in an apartment? It can be done, but you have to follow up the following tips and tricks. In fact, they really are one of the best apartment dogs if you make sure their basic needs are met. The fact is, size rarely makes a difference in how well a breed can thrive in an apartment. This is especially true of the German Shepherd. Exercise, separation issues, mental stimulation — all of these things have to be addressed. For starters, many apartment complexes have size and weight limits. This is ridiculous, but what can you do? German Shepherds are very distinct breeds. I highly suggest finding a dog-friendly building, rather than just a building that allows dogs. Ideally, you want to live someplace where people are pretty laid back about the somewhat annoying aspects of dog ownership like a barking dog or hair all over the place. In the perfect world, there would be whole buildings dedicated to apartment dog living! Exercise, exercise, exercise. German Shepherds need plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Ideally, try to find an apartment within close walking distance of a good dog park so he can enjoy that off leash time. Check with local dog trainers and veterinarians. Some of them host dog social hours in a fenced-in yard. These dogs are smart. Incredibly intelligent. And they hate to be bored. A half hour of obedience training — complete with his favorite treats — should suffice. Like I said, these are incredibly smart dogs. The last thing you want is a bored German Shepherd. Look into crates that collapse when not in use. If you go that route, make sure you grab some super absorbent puppy pads. I suggest giving it a test run before you leave the house for hours. Mind their Manners! One last tip, and this one is important. German Shepherds have great BIG voices. When they spot danger or a rogue squirrel , everyone on your floor will know about it. If it happens constantly, though, even the most patient neighbors will get annoyed pretty fast. When you move into the building, introduce yourself and your dog to those around, above, and below you. When it comes to any dog, be it a German Shepherd or a Toy Poodle, apartment living and single-family home living are pretty much the same. If your apartment living experience includes a German Shepherd, give him plenty of exercise and training, and you should be just fine. Have you ever lived in an apartment with a German Shepherd? How did you make it the best experience possible? Share below! Breed Info If you want to get a German Shepherd but you live in an apartment, you may have wondered can German Shepherds live in apartments? You need to look at your individual dog to determine if the apartment lifestyle will be suited for them. How to Best Live with a German Shepherd in an Apartment Although, it can be possible for a German Shepherd to live in an apartment, there are certain things you will need to do as an owner to make sure your GSD is a good tenant. These things include the following: Give your Dog Lots of Exercise The first thing you need to do to live happily in an apartment with a German Shepherd is to give them plenty of exercise. A German Shepherd puppy is easier to tire out than an adult dog. With a young puppy, you can go on a few short walks each day and have some indoor play sessions and they will be good. However, with teenage and adult German Shepherds they will need a more vigorous exercise regime to tire them out. There are many ways to exercise your German Shepherd , from walking to running, to biking , to playing fetch. Find a few activities that your dog loves that will also tire them out in the process. Then establish a daily exercise routine and be consistent for the best results. Obedience Training The next thing you should do is to make sure your German Shepherd knows at a minimum some basic obedience commands. There are formal obedience classes all around the country for dog training, and since German Shepherds are so smart , you can teach them many of the basic commands at home. Making sure your German Shepherd is well trained is a must for apartment living because you will be around other people and other dogs. In addition, sometimes apartments want to meet the dog before deciding to accept them and you as a tenant. If you dog is bouncing off the walls, jumping on tables, and knocking people over, they will be less likely to let you rent on of their units. However, if you dog can demonstrate that they know how to sit and be polite, they are more likely to approve of your dog living there. Also, training is good for perception. Some people are naturally more fearful of large breed dogs. Thus, a large dog that is buck wild, will make some people nervous. But if you have a large dog that is well mannered, most people will be less likely to complain to the landlord about your dog. Crate training Crate training can be a good tool to use in apartments, especially with a younger GSD, or a GSD that is a little mischievous. The last thing you want is for your dog to destroy something in the apartment when you go out. Usually, as the tenant, you can lose your security deposit if there is damage to the unit you are renting. Crate training can help prevent this from occurring. If you are still in the process of training your dog, your dog may not be to the point where they can just be calm and not get into anything if you leave them home alone. I recommend crate training from a young age because it not only protects the apartment, but it also protects your pup from getting into something dangerous and getting seriously injured while unsupervised. Find different ways to play indoors Another thing you will need to do a little differently in an apartment is playing. This will probably lead to complaints to the landlord. More quiet ways of play are activities that require your dog to use more mental energy than physical energy. Puzzle toys and mental exercises are great ways to keep German Shepherds entertained indoors but not cause a lot of ruckus. Although a German Shepherd needs physical exercise, they also need to have their mind engaged on a regular basis. If you have owned a German Shepherd you know their minds are always going, and they will try and outsmart you if you let them. So mental games and toys are a way of stimulating their mind and tiring them out. Of course, your dog still needs plenty of outdoor exercise. These indoor activities are just a way to keep them occupied, mentally engaged, and quiet while in the apartment. Reasons why German Shepherds may not do the Best in an Apartment Breed Restrictions One of the main reasons why your German Shepherd may not be welcomed to live in an apartment especially in the United States is breed restrictions. Breed restrictions basically ban certain dog breeds from living in certain places. There are even some states and local counties that ban people from owning a particular type of dog at all in their jurisdiction. In America, German Shepherds are usually on the breed restriction list of many apartment complexes. I live in a large metropolitan area, and when I recently helped a friend look at apartments, only two would accept German Shepherds, and we looked at about 8 apartments. Depending on where you live this may not be as much of an issue, but it is definitely something to consider if you are thinking about getting a German Shepherd and you already live in an apartment. Not enough space to play Another potential reason German Shepherds may not do well in apartments is the lack of room to play. Of course, if you rent a very large apartment this can be less of an issue. However, a studio, one-bedroom, or even two-bedroom standard sized apartment can be a little tight for a large active dog. When a toy comes out, they go a little crazy and like to run around and jump. So not having much space can make it harder for them to play indoors. As stated above, this is where mental activities and outdoor exercise come in to keep your German Shepherd active when you are living in an apartment. Those are days when having the ability to play inside can help. Some German Shepherds are louder than others. She will stare out the window and bark at every bird, squirrel, or deer that she can spot in the distance. Knowing your dog is key here. I had to learn this the hard way when I got my German Shepherd. Although no one wants their dog to destroy anything, it is a little different if you live in an apartment. Usually in apartments there are penalties usually extra fees , that you will have to pay if there is any damage done to the unit while you live there. If your dog is a little on the wilder side and is prone to destroying things, you should consider this when deciding whether to live in an apartment. Final Thoughts So, although German Shepherds can live in an apartment, whether your individual German Shepherd should live in an apartment is a determination only you can make. If there are no breed restrictions prohibiting German Shepherds, then you just need to consider their personality, training, and your ability to keep them active enough when making this decision. In this YouTube video, one couple shares their experience of living with, training, and exercising their German Shepherd in a tiny house, which is smaller than most standard apartments today. This video also gives you helpful tips about how to set up your space and your day to make sure your GSD stays happy and healthy. Just as not all German Shepherds are the same, so too not all apartments are the same. Some apartments are very dog-friendly while others are not. Some apartments even offer enclosed dog park areas where dog owners can take their pups for potty time and play. Others offer no such amenities. Some apartments may be conveniently located next to large open spaces or large dog parks, and this can make playtime and exercise so easy and convenient. But other apartments may be located in densely populated areas where green space is hard to find. As you are probably starting to suspect, the key to successfully living with a German Shepherd in a small space like an apartment is making sure your dog gets their activity needs to be met no matter what. As Apartments. Just as some cities and municipalities may ban or restrict keeping certain dog breeds over concerns about breed aggression issues, sometimes apartments may institute their own rules about which dog breeds are permitted on the property. German Shepherds are frequently employed in K-9, military, police, guarding, and protection work. It is worth checking on this in advance to avoid hefty fines and heartbreak. If your apartment management is open to allowing you to add a German Shepherd dog to your family, you may need to pay an extra pet deposit or provide a certification of rental insurance before being allowed to move in. If this applies, there may not be anything you can do. The management may also require extra proof that your GSD has the appropriate temperament and training to fare well in a multi-home building where interactions with other tenants and their pets are inevitable. You may be asked or required to provide any or all of the following before you will be allowed to have a German Shepherd dog breed on the property: Certification of good health. Proof of all current vaccinations and pest control measures. Veterinary reference. References from any past landlords. Bringing along photos of your dog sweetly interacting with people of all ages and other pets may get you extra points during this introductory process. The topic of true canine service animals is a heated one today as the line between service dogs and emotional support dogs becomes increasingly blurred. However, the Americans with Disabilities Act ADA and the Fair Housing Act FHA are both crystal clear that any tenant who has a documented medical need for a service dog must be allowed to live with their dog on the premises, even if that apartment complex does not permit dogs. In order to qualify as a true service animal, your German Shepherd must be trained to do specific work that assists you with a health disability. This means there is the expectation that a service animal will not act out, display aggression, or cause problems for other tenants because of behavioral issues. Even dog breeds that are prohibited from the apartment complex or the local region are permitted when the dog is a legitimate service animal. However, the dog must be fully trained before moving in — no service dogs in training are covered under these laws. According to the American Kennel Club AKC , the German Shepherd dog breed is currently ranked as the second most popular companion canine after the unbeatable Labrador Retriever and ahead of other registered dog breeds. According to Builder Online , two out of every 10 Americans live in an apartment setting. What does this add up to? It is highly likely there are many, many German Shepherds living with their human keepers in apartments all over the country right at this very minute. But what is less well known is how comfortable that arrangement is for all concerned. The typical adult German Shepherd will weigh between 50 and 90 pounds and stand anywhere from 22 to 26 inches tall paw pads to shoulder girdle. That is a whole lot of dog to fit into a one-bedroom apartment, for example. Apartment Therapy states that the typical one-bedroom apartment may range from to 1, square feet depending on the city. In many ways, adding a 50 to a pound dog will be the equivalent of adding a small child in terms of the extra space required. Especially if you plan to crate-train your GSD a smart idea for a variety of reasons. If you add a dog bed, you can count on another four to five feet of floor space needed. One big mistake many apartment dwellers make when choosing a GSD dog is only planning for the size of their new puppy. A German Shepherd puppy at nine weeks old might only weigh 20 to 30 pounds and be just an adorable little fuzzball of cuteness. Expect your puppy to double in weight every three months until at least nine months of age and continue to grow even after that. German Shepherds can take longer to mature because they are large breed dogs. This means you may not actually have a good working idea of just how large your dog is going to be until after the one-year mark. Of course, if you are able to get a larger apartment — even one with two bedrooms — the problem of available floor space will be greatly eased. Rental Agreement Considerations for a German Shepherd in an Apartment Space Another factor to consider before moving forward to live with a German Shepherd in an apartment is the issue of safe play. GSDs began their breed evolution as herding and livestock guarding dogs. When this job description was no longer in high demand, German Shepherds moved into K-9, guarding, and protection work. Today, German Shepherds are found in fields as diverse as tracking and hunting, service and therapy, guide dogs for the blind, nose work and search and rescue as well as many canine athletic disciplines. Schutzhund, obedience and rally, agility, dock diving, you name it, these dogs can do it and will do it happily and tirelessly. You need to think about the terms of your lease agreement and the penalties for structural damage inside your unit. Teething puppies may readily chew on baseboards, doors, or cabinetry built-ins. Adult German Shepherds who get bored, are left home alone or experience separation anxiety may be far more destructive. Can you foot the bill for repairs or damages your dog may cause inside your unit? These are important questions to ask yourself before making the commitment to sharing your apartment with a German Shepherd puppy or adult dog. Whether due to inclement or seasonal weather, your own health, or simply enjoyment of life together, it is also important to ask if your particular apartment unit will allow for safe play with your German Shepherd. Even if you live in a very temperate climate and you have easy access to local dog-friendly parks or trails, there may be days when you want or need to stay indoors. Your dog will still need the same level of daily activity to dwell easily in such a small space. So this may mean you are throwing a ball or playing tug-of-war inside your apartment to tire your dog out. Taking a look at the layout of your apartment and the size of each room will give you a good idea of how hard or easy it might be to play with your German Shepherd safely and easily indoors. This is not unusual, however. Many working dog breeds display similar traits. As Science Alert highlights, German Shepherds are ranked as the third smartest dog breed out of 79 purebred dog breeds. The type of canine smarts being measured in this study relates to how quickly a dog breed can master a new command and how frequently they will obey that command in the future. The German Shepherd can master a new command in five tries or less and will reliably repeat the behavior on cue as often as 95 percent of the time. While this is adorably cute in a GSD puppy and can be endearing to devoted dog owners even in adulthood, it is far less likely to be well-received by your near apartment neighbors. How will your neighbors react when your German Shepherd starts whining or whimpering or crying — or even worse, barking and howling — because you have left the house and your dog is alone, bored, and lonely? Will your neighbors tolerate it when your GSD reminds you about every meal, snack, walk, and training session with a piercing whine? Will your below-neighbors be disturbed? Some neighbors may be very accommodating or may not even be home enough to notice. But other neighbors who are noise-sensitive or home a lot may complain and cause trouble for you in the apartment complex. Before you get a German Shepherd, it can be wise to talk with your near neighbors below, above, and side to side to find out if there are any concerns you should be aware of. This is especially true and important if you really like where you live and want to stay long-term. Because GSDs are so mentally intelligent as well as physically athletic, they have needs on multiple levels. If you want a tired German Shepherd that sleeps soundly at night and is quietly self-contained when you are all inside your apartment together, then you need to be the one who is tiring your dog out! An adult GSD with a fully mature skeletal system will need one to two hours of vigorous exercise, activity, and playtime on a daily basis to be a quiet and calm housemate inside your apartment, according to German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County. Earlier than that, you will want to provide 30 to 60 minutes of moderate training, exercise, and interactive playtime per day to achieve the same result. That being said, some German Shepherds may have a higher energy level than others, which may mean your particular dog needs less exertion than this or more every day. Apartment-Friendly German Shepherd Exercise and Activity Ideas Since mental stimulation is just as important as physical exertion to truly tire your dog out each day, the best activity schedule is one that can combine both. Here are some great keeper-generated ideas for how to make sure your dog is getting all of their daily mental and physical exercise needs met even when you live in an apartment together. Break up walks into several smaller sessions daily. Start with a period of training commands. Introduce new tricks to training every week. Visit the local dog park or any dog-friendly park or beach together. Head to the local jogging track or outdoor sports stadium. Go hiking or walking together after work or on weekends. Enroll in canine athletics together Schutzhund, dock diving, and rally are all great. Teach your dog to do a job so you can volunteer together therapy dog, visiting the elderly, reading to kids — all these give your dog plenty of human interaction. Enjoy time at a local pond, river, bayou, or lake — GSDs typically love to swim. Create a scavenger hunt in your home using snuffle mats, treat balls, remote communication, and treat dispensers and other sensory fun. Turn mealtimes into mental mastery sessions with canine puzzle toys that have varying levels of difficulty for your dog to master. Ask your employer about taking your German Shepherd dog to work with you. Get involved in your local chapter of the German Shepherd dog club and organize play dates for your dog with other German Shepherds. Start entering competitions on the show dog circuit or enroll in agility competitions. Work with a professional dog trainer together to help your dog learn new skills. With enough advance preparation, German Shepherd dogs make great apartment dogs — wherever you are is where they want to be. This will make your life easier day in and day out. Before getting a German Shepherd Puppy-proof your house If your German Shepherd is still a puppy less than 18 months old , they are little chew machines and love to investigate the environment with their nose and mouth. You should block off any off-limit areas, such as the kitchen, bathroom, or upstairs. This can be done with a baby gate, but not shutting the door. It should be a designated area, not too hot or too cold, that allows her to play and stretch out. The key is to make the crate a place where your GSD enjoys being in, with comfortable beddings and her favorite toys inside. Never use it as a punishment. Mock your departures Before you actually go back to the office, you could try to mock your departures in the weeks leading up to their return to work. Start leaving the house for five minutes, leave for ten minutes, leave for half an hour, vary it up and down in times. Set up a webcam or video recorder where your GSD is most likely to be or near the exit. How to keep your German Shepherd happy in an apartment? Physical stimulation German Shepherds are herding dogs that require plenty of physical and mental exercises every day. For adult German Shepherds, the American Kennel Club recommends at least two hours of exercise daily. Exercise requirements may also vary from dog to dog. Some do need hours of intensive exercise while others are fine with 2x 30 minutes casual walks around the block and a little fetch. Since GSD are intelligent dogs, chances are that they might get bored easily with repeated activities. Mental Stimulation These dogs are smart, sometimes too smart. Ideally, an adult German Shepherd should not be left alone for more than 4 hours. But they may do just as well if you work 8 hours if well trained. Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, so giving them a durable chew toy can sometimes keep them away from your furniture and shoes. Kong Wobbler, see video below Play Soft Music Music can help your dog feel relaxed when left alone in the house. Certain music genres have been proven to be more soothing for your dog than others. Reggae and soft rock are the most relaxing music for dogs, and classical music also helps calm down dogs in stressful environments. Turn on white noise White noise is a type of noise that is produced when sounds of all different frequencies are combined. You can use white noise machines to produce calming effects for your dogs. Some allow you to activate the camera and microphone so you can watch or speak to your pup directly from your cell phone. Others beep when it detects your dog barking. What if apartment living does not work? If things do not work out or your German Shepherd starts to show destructive behavior like chewing up everything at home, it is not the end of the world. You certainly have options. Alternatively, you may have your friends or neighbors come over on different days of the week to bring your dog out for a short walk during the day. This will be good enough to keep your dog engaged. Dog daycare A good daycare will have trained staff, clean toys, lots of playtimes, and a set schedule so you know what your dog will be doing all through the day. Whether you do this daily or just as a treat once a month or so, doggy daycare is a great option for keeping active German Shepherds happy with some companies. Take your dog to work Many large companies are allowing their employees to bring their dogs into work as it helps increase worker happiness. Talk with your employer to see if this is a possibility. Work from home More and more companies are allowing their employees to work from home for certain days a week. If it is possible, working from home can make things easier for you and your dog. You get the idea. At the end of the day, living with a German Shepherd or two might not be as bad as you might have thought, provided that their daily needs are well taken care of. Bon is a dog lover and a blogger. He loves spending time with dogs more than with humans. You will find him training himself for the next marathon when he is not writing.

A bunny hopping gait or loose walk. Trouble getting up from a nap Difficulty walking up or down stairs to greet you. Other common Lab joint problems include osteoarthritis from old age and not necessarily hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which can result in lameness of the front legs. Always consult your veterinarian if you see the symptoms of Labrador hip dysplasia. X-rays and a full exam are necessary for proper diagnosis. Dog hip dysplasia surgery for severe cases in medium-to large-sized dogs can be expensive. In most cases, rehabilitation services can also be costly and postoperative care can be long and arduous. Age may keep your dog from being a good candidate for surgery. Non-surgical treatment options often have no age restrictions. Dog hip braces, such as the Ortho Dog Hip Hound brace , support the low back and hip area for mild to moderate hip dysplasia. The purpose of the Hip Hound brace is to stabilize the hip and lower back areas by holding the head of the femur in the hip socket. This reduces grating of the bone, which allows for post-surgical healing or pain-free exercise. Braces come in all sizes so you can find one that is perfect for your pet and allows for maximum support. Is a Hip Hound Brace right for your pup? Designed for dogs who suffer from arthritis and mild to moderate hip dysplasia. Since Labs are prone to joint issues, your dog may be diagnosed with elbow dysplasia Fragmented medial coronoid process. A veterinarian we work with has used the Ortho Dog Hock Holder brace for the hind leg over the elbow joint. We recommend you give it a try! This breed already loves water so much, you may not be able to get them to stop swimming! Why is My Labrador limping takeaways 1. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joint becomes misaligned. It causes pain and lameness in the affected leg. The symptoms usually appear between 6 months and 2 years old. Dog inherit the predisposition to hip dysplasia from their parents. Labradors and hybrid Labradoodles are prone to this preventable disease through improper breeding. Your puppy will have trouble walking if it has hip dysplasia. You need to get an X-ray done on both hips at least once before they reach 1 year old. There are no known non surgical cures for this disease so make sure you keep up with regular checkups. This disorder results from abnormal development of the pelvis and legs. The bones of the pelvic region do not form correctly and instead fuse together prematurely. This creates problems with weight bearing and movement. Arthritis in dogs can also cause limping Dog arthritis the joints of a dog become inflamed, swollen or painful. The most common type of arthritis that affects dogs are osteoarthritis which causes inflammation in one or more of their joints. Other types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, septic arthritis, gouty arthritis and crystal-induced arthritis. Genetics plays a role in whether a dog develops arthritis. Age also contributes to its development. Older dogs are more prone to develop arthritis than younger ones. Weight also affects arthritis; heavier dogs are more susceptible to arthritis than lighter dogs. Activity levels play a part in the progression of arthritis. High activity levels increase wear on joints, while low activity levels decrease wear on joints. Diet can influence joint health Dogs who have had an injury such as surgery, trauma or infection will be predisposed to developing these conditions. A Labrador as a guard dog 3. Infections can make a dog limp — especially ones involving bones Infections of the foot or paw are commonly caused by bacterial infections. This includes bacterial infections like staphylococcus bacteria, streptococcus bacteria and yeast infections. These infections tend to affect the skin around the paw pads and sometimes spread into other areas of the body causing fever and lethargic behavior. In addition to causing pain and swelling, these infections can lead to lameness if not treated properly. Infectious diseases like parvovirus and Lyme disease can affect joints and muscles causing pain and inflammation. Your vet will know what tests to order to diagnose these conditions and treat accordingly. Trauma to the foot or paw A traumatic event can lead to swelling and bruising in the area where the injury occurred. In addition, the muscles surrounding the site of the injury may tighten up due to fear or stress. As a result, the leg becomes stiff and sore. Common trauma to dog feet include Abrasions — A small wound caused by a sharp object such as a nail or splinter. Bruises — A bruise is an injury to the soft tissue under the skin. It may be caused by a blow, fall, or other impact. Bruising occurs when blood vessels are broken and leak blood into the surrounding tissues. Contusions — Contusions are bruises that are larger than a bruise. They are caused by a blunt force, such as a blow from a fist or another object. Sun burn in dogs or heat burn from hot asphalt 5. Dog Toenail Injuries can make a Labrador limp The nails of dogs grow continuously throughout their lives. However, there are times when the nails begin to look longer than normal. These changes happen naturally over time. If the change happens suddenly, however, then it could indicate something wrong. Toenails should never be trimmed too short because there is a blood vessel and nerve inside the nail. Trimming them too long or not trimming them can result in broken nails. Happy Labrador! Patella Luxation Patellar luxation is a common condition affecting many breeds including German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Dobermans and of course — Labs Labs are times more likely to have this than other breeds It involves the kneecap becoming dislocated out of place. This can cause severe discomfort and lameness. Dogs can sprain a muscle and this can make them limp Muscles can become strained through exercise or playing rough with your pet. The most common places for strains to occur are at the elbows, shoulders, hips, and knees. Strains usually heal themselves within three weeks — but if it is not improving or becomes exacerbated you will need to consult your Vet. Over exertion can make a dog limp Exercise causes our bodies to work harder which leads to increased heart rate and breathing. Our legs also get tired quickly so we must take breaks often during physical activity. The exact same is true for dogs! An over fatigued Lab can limp for a while due to muscle exhaustion. Give them a few days of rest and your Labrador will be back in tip top shape soon. A Labrador sniffs a smoked dog bone 9. Insect Bites can make a dog walk funny or limp It is common for dogs to run into nature and the creep crawly insects that populate it. Through no fault of their own Labradors LOVE to explore grass and nature — which runs the risk of being bitten by ants, bees or wasps. Most of the time a dog insect bite is not a huge concern BUT sometimes they do leave behind nasty infections on the bite site if the dog licks or chews it. You should always seek veterinary care if you see any signs of infection after having been stung by an ant or bee. FAQ — My Lab has had surgery recently and is now limping? Luckily your Vet is only a phone call away So please contact us today if you think your puppy is limping. An older Labrador limps A reader Sara emailed in to tell us about her elderly Labrador dog just turned 10! As a result, she walks differently than before. Her stride length is shorter and her steps are wider apart. She loves the outdoors — but we know not to push her too far. Labradors are prone to a variety of conditions that can cause pain, including hip dysplasia, arthritic pain, and infections. Make sure you get regular checkups to ensure that your dog is healthy. Dog arthritis is a very common condition that can affect any breed. Bridie is a proud Goldendoodle mom! Part-time health worker, life-time dog writer and lover. She loves to help people best care for their puppies. Load More. A stone or thorn stuck in the pads Nerve damage Genetic disorders. This is a genetic condition that causes the joint to become malformed. This causes lameness and pain from a relatively young age. Some dogs require surgery such as a hip replacement and some dogs may have to take medicine for the rest of their lives. Most reputable breeders now do screening for the conditions to help reduce the chance of it being inherited. Lameness in older dogs Lameness in older dogs is often due to arthritis setting in. This is a very common condition in older dogs and affects the joints, mainly the knee, shoulder and hips. Elderly dogs may benefit from nutritional supplements, anti-inflammatories and complimentary therapies such as hydrotherapy, physiotherapy and acupuncture. Lameness in younger dogs Lameness in younger dogs and puppies can be due to several reasons. Weight management Weight management is very important when it comes to preventing your dog becoming lame and if you think your dog may be overweight you could call the vet nursing team at Vetfone for advice on this or contact your local vet practice and enquire about their weight clinic. Diagnosis of lameness by your vet Your vet will give your dog a thorough examination and take a full history from you. The vet will determine where your dog is most painful and check for any abnormalities of the bones or joints. Your vet may want to perform a few tests, including x-rays or even a blood test. It will be important for a veterinary professional to know the age of your pet as there are specific complaints that affect puppies and young dogs and older dogs. If the vet recommends an x-ray, then this will be performed under General Anaesthetic. This will allow the vet to move the limb about to get a good view without causing pain or discomfort. The dog will usually stay with the vet for a few hours and come home that same day depending on the diagnosis. When your vet has looked at the x-rays they will decide on the next course of action. Sometimes they may need to refer your dog onto a specialist vet such as an Orthopaedic vet or a Neurologist. If the exact cause is not known, a period of exercise reduction together with anti-inflammatories and pain killers may be required to see if the lameness improves. Weight management if your dog is overweight and contributing to the lameness. For more serious causes broken bones, slipped discs orthopaedic or neurological surgery is required. Prevention of lameness Lameness can arise during normal everyday activity. Serious injuries such as being hit by a car or falling from a height can be avoided by keeping your dog on a lead until it is safe to let them off. Be aware of genetic issues that affect some pedigree breeds. Inspect their paws and pads regularly and remove any debris. Use foot covers or a barrier ointment on the pads during the winter months to stop the salt and grit hurting them. Limit how much you exercise a dog that is still growing to prevent joint problems. Elderly dogs need less exercise and if you notice them slowing down seek veterinary advice in the first instance. You may want to consider using nutritional supplements that contain glucosamine or chondroitin to help support the joints as the animal ages. Frequently asked questions about dog limping How can I tell if my dog is lame? Your dog may be slowing down a bit on walks and may start struggling when walking up the stairs. You may notice him walking on three legs or doing a little skip when he walks. How can I tell if my dog has pulled a muscle? If your dog has pulled a muscle you may notice him limping or walking on 3 legs. He may hold his leg up when he is standing still or sitting. You may also hear him whine or cry and may go off his food if it is very sore. How do I tell if my dog has cut its paw? You may notice that your dog is bleeding or he could be licking his paw excessively. He might not want to put weight on it and he may whine or cry if he is in pain. How can I tell if my dog has broken a bone? Your dog may be whining or crying as a break or fracture of a bone is usually quite painful. They will probably be holding the leg up but may attempt to put a little weight on it. The leg may become swollen and will probably be sore to touch, if your dog can tolerate your touch then gently check for any heat coming from the leg. The leg may also appear floppy. How can I tell if my dog has hip problems? You might notice your dog limping or slowing down on walks. He may have trouble going upstairs and downstairs and might be reluctant to jump up. He may have an abnormal gait the way his back legs move when he walks , or the position of his back legs when he stands may look different. Some dogs develop a swaying motion when walking if they have hip problems. How do I tell which leg my dog is lame on? It is sometimes difficult to tell which leg is causing your dog to be lame. The most obvious way is if the dog is not weight bearing or holding the affected limb up when he walks, sits or stands. If he can put weight on it then watch his whole body when he walks — sometimes a dog will lift his head slightly when he uses the sore leg and put his head down when he uses the leg that is fine. Can I walk my dog if it has a limp? You should rest your dog for at least two days if you notice a limp. Rest means lead exercise only and short 5 minute walks at a time. Stay with them in the garden and even put a lead on to restrict their exercise and help them if they need to go upstairs, downstairs or jump up anywhere car, sofa, bed etc. Is my dog in pain? Signs of pain in a dog can vary greatly. Some dogs are very stoical and brave while others are more delicate. You may hear your dog whining, crying or whimpering. You may notice the dog is licking the affected area or sometimes an area nearby. Some dogs go off their food and may be more clingy and attentive than normal. On the other hand, some dogs will become more distant and want to be on their own if they are in pain. Sometimes the subtlest changes in behaviour or demeanour are enough to tell a vigilant owner that their dog is in pain. If you notice a limp after exercising it may be that the dog is doing too much at once. You could try shorter walks more often, rather than one long walk and if there is no improvement then you could call us at Vetfone to help assess the lameness. My dog is limping on its hind leg. The most obvious sign of hind leg lameness is a little hop or skip when they are walking and running. Sometimes this can develop into them holding the leg up and not wanting to put weight on it. It could be a simple strain so try resting your dog for a day or so but if you think your dog is in pain then you should contact a vet. My dog is limping on its foreleg. You might have noticed your dog is reluctant to go on walks or is favouring one side more than the other. If there is nothing to see, try resting him for a day or calling us at Vetfone One of our nurses could help assess the lameness to see if you need to contact a vet. My dog is limping when it gets up after resting. In older dogs this can be a sign of arthritis. The joints become stiffer as the dog gets older. You may notice that after a few minutes of walking about the lameness improves. In dogs that are still growing it can be the sign of other joint problems. At Vetfone we can help assess the animal over the phone and let you know if we think you need to contact a vet. Finding the cause of lameness in your dog As noted above, the causes of lameness in dogs can be wide ranging. This process will hopefully rule out the more serious cases which must be dealt with by a vet and leads to advice on what you should do next for your pet. Our UK based Registered Veterinary Nurses will ask you several questions designed to assess triage the condition You will need to be with the dog as we will ask you to check a few things while you are on the phone to us We will ask if you how long the dog has been lame for and if you know how the injury happened We will ask you to touch the affected leg and feel for any swelling, heat or pain and to look at the leg and paw in case there are any cuts or abnormalities to see. Call us at Vetfone or visit Vetfone if you are unsure or worried and our expert nurses will advise you on what to do next. If the situation does not merit a trip to the vet, we will give advice for managing the situation at home. If the lameness is caused by a simple sprain or strain, then 48 hours of rest and restricted exercise may be enough to improve the situation drastically. Your dog may have a small cut on his pad which, if not bleeding or infected, may be fine to treat at home with some rest and a clean with saline solution. If the situation is more serious we will advise that you contact your vet. Ligament sprain or rupture Your Dog Is Limping After Rest Dogs with osteoarthritis typically appear to be at their most painful when they first get up in the morning or after resting. Moving around for a while seems to relieve at least some of their discomfort. Osteoarthritis may worsen in cold and damp weather. Immune-mediated polyarthritis, tick-borne infections, and panosteitis a developmental disease seen in young dogs are sometimes associated with lameness that seems to move from leg to leg. For example, a dog who has undergone a tibial plateau leveling osteotomy TPLO to treat a cruciate ligament rupture generally begins bearing some weight on the affected leg within a week or so after surgery. Over the next few weeks, the limping should gradually improve, but if your dog is too active, the limp may temporarily worsen. As tempting as it may be, NEVER give your dog the following without talking with your veterinarian first: Aspirin Over-the-counter pain reliever s Prescription pain relievers All medications, including aspirin , are associated with potentially severe side effects when used at the wrong dose or in the wrong situations. Determining why your dog is limping is the first step to providing the right treatment. Diagnosing the Cause of Dog Limping Veterinarians start the diagnostic process by taking a thorough health history, so be prepared to answer the following questions: How long has your dog been limping? Can you identify a specific event that may have initiated the limp? Does the limp come and go, or is it present all the time? What type of treatment have you tried at home? Has it worked? Next, the veterinarian will perform a physical and orthopedic examination as well as a neurological exam, if necessary. X-rays radiographs are often needed to reach a diagnosis. Some cases also benefit from bloodwork, a CT scan, an MRI, a joint fluid analysis, or other laboratory tests. Treatment for Mild Cases of Dog Limping In some cases, pain relief and rest may be all that is needed. Veterinarians often prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories for mild to moderate pain, such as:. Devon, U. Well, we've just got back from the vet. Is it just me or do they set out to make you feel like the worst dog owner in the world - but that's for another post. The vet seemed to be quite worried about this. He asked if she'd ever shown signs of limping before to which I replied that very occasionally after she wakes up she will imp for a few minutes and then be fine so we had thought nothing of it. Apparently this isn't a good sign in a young dog. He said that after sleep a young dog should bounce up and be totally fine. We have been given some anti-inflammatories and have been instructed to reduce exercise to lead walks a day for the next days. Interestingly this is the reason we had upped her exercise - she pulls A LOT on the lead. So, the next week will be interesting. Luckily the last week we have been working on this with our trainer we have made lots of progress - lets hope its enough or there'll be two members of the family with dodgy shoulders. We've been told to watch out for this in the future and if there is another bout she will need an x-ray to look at the problem. Although he did say there are a number of reasons she could be limping, I definitely got the impression that he thought there was a problem - he certainly seemed concerned. MaccieD i'm scared to google ED as you always hear the worst stuff. What does it mean for her if she does have it? Is it just a case of keeping exercise and impact to a minimum or are there more serious implications? Limping in dogs is quite common. Limping occurs when your dog cannot walk normally due to pain or weakness. He may walk slowly or with difficulty and will usually favor one leg. There are two types of limping that your Lab may experience. Some types occur gradually over time, whereas sudden lameness happens quickly, usually after an injury. Some cases are minor and can be treated at home, whereas others will require professional medical help. Overexertion Too much of a good thing, such as fetch, intense running, or rough play with other dogs, can leave your Labrador sore and hobbling with a muscle strain. However, most dogs will recover quickly after a couple of rest days. Look out for your Lab incessantly licking his paw. Burns caused by scorching sidewalks or frostbite can also cause your Labrador to limp. Get your dog some booties or paw protectors in extremely hot or cold temperatures. Toenail Injuries Examine your Labrador for ingrowing or overgrown toenails, as these can cause discomfort and pain when they dig into the skin. My dog once had a dewclaw injury, so make sure you also keep these trim. Insect Sting or Animal Bite Stings and bites can cause limping. Your Lab may raise its paw if stung by a wasp or bee. Bites from other animals can cause injury and also lead to infections. Fracture A broken leg should be suspected if the limping occurred suddenly. Broken bones may not always be visible. Sprain A sprain is the result of a stretched or torn ligament or tendon. It can be caused by something as simple as jumping off the couch and landing awkwardly. Your Labrador will be reluctant to put any weight on his paw or leg. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Dysplasia is a common hereditary condition causing hip and elbow joints to become loose and move out of position. According to the OFA, .Osteoarthritis Older and larger dogs are more at risk of this chronic painful disease. It results in joint inflammation caused by cartilage deterioration. Signs include lameness, stiffness, or difficulty in getting up. My dog Willow has osteoarthritis of her lower spine. Her initial symptoms were lameness of the rear leg and difficulty getting up from a lying position. However, she manages it pretty well along with her hip dysplasia with prescribed medication, and exercise adjustments. My vet recommended these, they get excellent reviews online, and they seem to work for her. She has the Big Barker , which is the only dog bed clinically proven to reduce joint stiffness and pain. You can read my comprehensive review here. Cruciate Ligament Injury or Disease This is where damage is caused to one or both cruciate ligaments that hold the knee together. Limping is usually the first sign of a cruciate problem and can be caused by turning awkwardly, jumping, or twisting. It can occur suddenly or be progressive. It is common in dogs, but Labrador retrievers are three times as likely as other breeds to have patellar luxation. Infection An infection of the paw or leg can cause your Labrador to Limp. He may lick and chew the site and may need to take antibiotics. Lyme Disease This bacterial illness transmitted by certain ticks can cause intermittent lameness. Degenerative Myelopathy Older dogs are at risk of this inherited disorder that affects the spinal cord causing a gradual paralysis of the back end. Symptoms are weakness, lameness in the hind legs, and incontinence. Panosteitis Wandering Lameness or Growing Pains This condition affects the long bones of the legs due to painful inflammation. Panosteitis tends to affect growing large breed pups, aged months, including the Labrador. A shifting lameness from one bone to another is caused and can occur over several weeks or months. Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy HOD This is a bone disease occurring in fast-growing large dogs, usually between 3 and 5 months old. The Labrador Retriever is one of the breeds predisposed to Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy. Signs will be a slight limp and pain in the affected bone. The shoulder is most commonly affected, but it can also appear in the elbow, hip, and knee. It occurs when large puppies grow too quickly. Limping, lameness, and pain are symptoms. Labrador Retrievers are predisposed to Osteochondritis Dissecans , but the genes involved have not been identified. Dwarf dog breeds having a short, stout appearance are most commonly affected. Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis This disorder of the immune system causes inflamed, swollen, and painful joints. Your Lab will be reluctant to walk — or he will hobble on one or more legs due to the pain. Diabetic Neuropathy If diabetes is left untreated, excessive glucose can cause progressive weakness or paralysis due to nerve damage. However, this condition is rare in dogs. Congenital Limb Deformities Abnormally developed limbs can cause limping in your dog. These are pretty rare, and this study on the congenital deformities of the distal extremities in three dogs highlighted that little is known about the causes. Osteosarcoma bone cancer Bone tumors can rapidly grow, causing limping and pain, particularly in leg bones. Limping can vary from mild to severe. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. German Shepherd When To Visit The Vet You do not have to see a vet every time you notice your dog is starting to limp however, there are times your dog must see a veterinarian at an animal hospital to get a comprehensive examination. If any of the following situations apply to your dog call your vet or go to the nearest open emergency veterinary clinic for assistance. Limbs that feel hot to the touch Any moderate to severe swelling A broken limb will be at an irregular angle A dangling limb this indicates dislocation Limping in combination with a fever How Can I Help My Limping Dog? When you first see your dog limping immediately get them to rest the best way you can to minimize their movement and prevent them from injuring themselves more. Also, press pause on your dog's exercise routines until they have fully healed, and keep them on a leash when taking them outside for potty breaks to stop them from running away. Check your pup's paw for anything signaling an injury such as cuts. Contact your vet as soon as you can if you discover something painful. If you think your dog is limping because of inflammation, alternate between ice and heat packs to lower the level of swelling and discomfort. Call your veterinarian to ask them when you should be applying the packs. Look at the site of the limp for signs of bleeding, to help determine if the condition is from a bite, injury, or puncture. It is recommended that you should take your dog to the vet to be safe and give both you and your dog a peaceful mind in knowing what is causing your dog's limp, even if you think it is not serious. If your dog starts to whimper or yelp and the limp doesn't get better by itself call your veterinarian immediately or go to the nearest emergency vet. Your vet has the training and knowledge to diagnose what is causing your dog's pain and the severity of the injury. An exam to determine the source may include X-rays, blood work, or tick testing. The veterinarian will also take your pup's age, breed, history, and overall health into consideration when diagnosing your dog and creating a treatment plan. Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet. If you notice your dog is in pain and limping contact us now. Our Lafayette veterinarians are available to help dogs in need. Puppies are more likely to injure themselves than adult dogs. Puppies are not fully developed, and their bodies are still growing and getting stronger as they play. Sometimes, puppies may overdo it and injure themselves with a muscle sprain, dislocation or ligament tears. What should I do? We know these seem like scary things for your puppy to endure, but we're going to explain common reasons for limping in more detail and what you should do if your puppy starts limping. If Your Puppy Has a Minor Limp If your puppy is limping but still playing, this is probably a sign of a superficial injury. Superficial injuries can include: Cuts or scrapes from stepping on something sharp. Burns from stepping on the hot pavement. A bite or a sting on your puppy's paw. A broken toenail. As soon as you notice your puppy limping, you should inspect their paw to see if you can determine any superficial injuries. Then, you should call your local vet to treat the wound to avoid infection. If Your Puppy Has a Pronounced Limp If your puppy's limp seems more serious and is significantly disrupting their ability to move, or the limp has been getting worse over time, this indicates a deeper injury. Deeper injuries include: Torn ligaments.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Built for sport, the Lab is muscular and athletic. They have a short, easy-care coat, friendly demeanor, keen intelligence, and plenty of energy. Devotion to this breed runs deep; Labs are loving, people-oriented dogs who live to serve their families, and owners and fans sometimes liken their Labs to angels. The breed originated on the island of Newfoundland, off the northeastern Atlantic coast of Canada. Originally called the St. Today, most Labs skip the hard labor and spend their days being pampered and loved by their people. However, some Labs still serve as indispensable working dogs. They also excel as a search and rescue dog or as a retriever for hunters, thanks to their athletic build, strong nose, and courageous nature. And Labs have also become the breed to beat at dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions, especially obedience. In fact, owners say their sweet, helpful Lab is likely to greet an intruder and happily show them where the goods are stashed. One role has remained constant: wonderful companion and friend. Labrador Retriever Highlights Friendly and outgoing. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are good with people of all ages and other animals. Intelligent and trainable. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They are often used as working dogs, such as guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs. Active and playful. Labrador Retrievers are active dogs that need plenty of exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and other activities. Loyal and devoted. Labrador Retrievers are loyal and devoted dogs that make great family pets. They are known for their gentle nature and love of children. Grooming needs are minimal. Labrador Retrievers have a short, thick coat that is easy to groom. They only need to be brushed a few times a week and bathed as needed. Overall, the Labrador Retriever is a versatile and popular dog breed that makes a great family pet. They are friendly, intelligent, and trainable, and they have a low grooming requirement. If you are considering getting a Labrador Retriever, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder. Labrador Retrievers are wonderful dogs, but they require a lot of time and attention. They are not a good choice for people who are not active or who do not have a lot of time to spend with their pets. Originally called St. Although their heritage is unknown, many believe the St. The second Earl of Malmesbury was one of the first, and had St. The third Earl of Malmesbury was the first person to refer to the dogs as Labradors. In Newfoundland, the breed disappeared because of government restrictions and tax laws. Families were allowed to keep no more than one dog, and owning a female was highly taxed, so girl puppies were culled from litters. In England, however, the breed survived, and the Kennel Club recognized the Labrador Retriever as a distinct breed in .They also top the list in Canada and England. Today, Labs work in drug and explosive detection, search and rescue, therapy, assistance to those with disabilities, and as retrievers for hunters. They also excel in all forms of dog competitions: show, field, agility, and obedience. Labrador Retriever Size Males stand .Females stand .Aside from a winning personality, they have the intelligence and eagerness to please that make them easy to train. Training is definitely necessary because this breed has a lot of energy and exuberance. The working heritage of the Lab means they are active. This breed needs activity, both physical and mental, to keep them happy. There is some variation in the activity level of Labs: some are rowdy, others are more laid back. All thrive on activity. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders, as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Cataracts : As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision, as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Epilepsy : Labs can suffer from epilepsy, which causes mild or severe seizures. Seizures may be exhibited by unusual behavior, such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Puppies are born with TVD, which is a malformation of the tricuspid valve on the right side of the heart. It can be mild or severe; some dogs live with no symptoms, others die. TVD is detected by ultrasound. Research is ongoing to learn how widespread it is in the breed, as well as treatment. Myopathy : Myopathy affects the muscles and nervous system. The first signs are seen early, as young as six weeks and often by seven months of age. A puppy with myopathy is tired, stiff when he walks and trots. He may collapse after exercise. In time, the muscles atrophy and the dog can barely stand or walk. There is no treatment, but rest and keeping the dog warm seems to reduce symptoms. Dogs with myopathy should not be bred because it is considered a heritable disease. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid themselves of the excess air in their stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. Theyalso may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Acute Moist Dermatitis: Acute moist dermatitis is a skin condition in which the skin red and inflamed. It is caused by a bacterial infection. The more common name of this health concern is hot spots. Treatment includes clipping the hair, bathing in medicated shampoo, and antibiotics. Cold Tail : Cold tail is a benign, though painful condition common to Labs and other retrievers. The dog may bite at the tail. It is thought to be a problem with the muscles between the vertebrae in the tail. Weekly checking and cleaning if necessary helps prevent infection. Labrador Retriever Care The lovable Lab needs to be around their family, and is definitely not a backyard dog. Labs show some variation in their activity levels, but all of them need activity, both physical and mental. Daily minute walks, a romp at the dog park, or a game of fetch, are a few ways to help your Lab burn off energy. However, a puppy should not be taken for too long walks and should play for a few minutes at a time. It is up to you to end play and training sessions. Without training, a rambunctious Lab puppy will soon grow to be a very large, rowdy dog. Luckily, Labs take to training well; in fact, they often excel in obedience competitions. Start with puppy kindergarten , which not only teaches your pup good canine manners, but helps them learn how to be comfortable around other dogs and people. Look for a class that uses positive training methods that reward the dog for getting it right, rather than punishing them for getting it wrong. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility, with its one-inch jumps. Labrador Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2. All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. Thrives on exercise and athletic activities Steady-tempered and dependable with everyone Peaceful with other animals Very responsive to training The Bad Needs a goodly amount of exercise, not just a couple of short walks around the block High energy and exuberant jumping, especially when young Sheds a lot Risk of serious health problems Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. Books by Michele Welton "Respect Training for Puppies" or "Respect Training for Adult Dogs" is a step by step guide to help you bring out the best in your pup so you can enjoy a calm and well-behaved dog, no matter what his age. Get your book today. A healthy dog is a happy dog, so buy your copy today. Chocolate Labrador. Developed as hunting dogs to fetch and carry birds back to the hunter, Labs love to carry toys around. How big are Labrador Retrievers? Usually they're inches at the shoulder, with males typically in the higher half of that range, and females in the lower half. Weight can be as low as 55 pounds, but is usually pounds. Unfortunately, the trend seems to be for heavier and heavier Labs, with a lot of individuals topping 90 pounds. I say unfortunately because heavier weight isn't good for their joints. This breed was supposed to be a medium-sized hunting retriever who could fit comfortably in a bird blind or a small boat. Show type Labrador Retriever. Much stockier than field type Labs. Are there different "types" of Labrador Retrievers? Not officially. There's only the one breed. They come in several colors, yet they're all Labrador Retrievers. For hunting and field trials, though, black Labs are by far the most common color. In my obedience classes, yellow Labs are often the calmest and most mild-mannered. In contrast, the chocolate Labs I've worked with have all been very energetic. Of course, it might just be coincidence! But apart from color, you'll definitely see Labs who look quite different from other Labs. Different builds, different body shapes. In particular, Labrador Retrievers used primarily for hunting and field trials look very different from Labs you see at dog shows that emphasize conformation. They have a narrower head, longer muzzle, lankier body, and a sleeker coat. Labs from show lines are heavier-boned and stockier, with a large blocky head and dense coat. To me, those dogs don't really look like the classic Labrador Retriever. But they do tend to be very sweet dogs with mellow temperaments that fit well into many families. How much exercise do Labrador Retrievers need? Many owners don't give this breed the exercise it deserves. These athletic, bouncy dogs need regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise they will become bored, which they may express by becoming rambunctious and destructive. Labs also need mental stimulation, which means interesting activities that keep the mind stimulated: For example, a challenging dog sport agility, rally obedience, musical freestyle, tracking, flyball, frisbee, field trials ; interactive dog toys; a homemade obstacle course; fetch games and tricks. Black Labrador Retriever. Black is the most common color. Are Labrador Retrievers easy to train? Yes, training most Labrador Retrievers is easy. They housebreak quickly and are usually willing to please. But this breed is strong and energetic, especially adolescents. Many Labradors between one and three years old are dropped off at animal shelters or rescue groups because of dog behavior problems such as pulling vigorously on the leash and jumping on people. Focus on teaching loose-leash walking, indoor calmness, and no jumping. All of these are taught in my puppy training book, Respect Training For Puppies. Are they friendly with strangers? Yes, most Labs are happy to see everyone. They'll bark when someone comes to the door, but they're not protective. This is a friendly, trusting breed. Are Labrador Retrievers good with children? Most Labs are among the best possible dogs for children. However, remember my cautions about exuberance and jumping. Young Labs up to two or three years old romp and jump with vigor. That means things can go flying — including people. If your Lab has been allowed to jump on people, you should stop this behavior immediately. Jumping can injure people, and even when it doesn't, it puts a dog in a heightened state of arousal that isn't good for him. If you don't yet have your dog and your home includes toddlers or infirm adults, you might consider skipping the challenging puppy and adolescent stages. Look into adopting an adult Labrador Retriever from a rescue group. Adults have a more settled temperament and you can specifically look for a calm one. Are Labrador Retrievers good with other pets? Most Labs are fine with other dogs and cats, fine with livestock, and even fine with very small pets such as rabbits and ferrets. Of course introductions should be made properly. Don't just plunk a baby bunny onto the floor and let your full-grown Lab loose in the room. Even a friendly dog can make mincemeat of a small fragile creature simply by jumping on it. Labrador Retriever puppies hardly shed at all.Grooming: Do Labrador Retrievers shed a lot? Are they easy to groom? For such a shorthaired dog, Labrador Retrievers shed more than you might think — on the high side of average at least. The bulk of their shedding occurs twice a year, for three weeks in the spring as their thicker winter coat switches to a cooler summer coat, and three weeks in the fall as their summer coat switches over to a winter coat. But they also shed some all through the year. Labs need more brushing than some other shorthaired breeds because of the high shedding. If you don't diligently pull out the dead undercoat during regular grooming sessions, it will all fall out on your floors and furniture. On the plus side, obviously Labs need no trimming! Yellow Labrador. How long do Labrador Retrievers live? Are they a healthy breed? Labrador Retrievers typically live years. Many Labs do live to 12 or 13, but usually with chronic health issues such as arthritis. Unfortunately, an increasing number of beloved Labs are lost in middle age to inherited forms of cancer or heart disease. Common orthopedic diseases in Labradors include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and luxating patella loose knee joints , each of which causes chronic pain and lameness and can require expensive surgery. Labs are very prone to rupturing the ligaments in their hind legs — expensive surgery again. And if one hind leg ruptures, the other is likely to follow at a later time. Another surgery. It's a good idea to have pet insurance when you own a Lab. A number of eye diseases cause blindness in Labrador Retrievers. The breed is at higher-than-average risk for an emergency gastrointestinal syndrome called bloat, which can kill a healthy dog within hours. One example of an odd neuromuscular disease is called exercise-induced collapse. As the name suggests, affected Labradors who have been vigorously exercising suddenly begin swaying, collapse, and require a rest before they can move again. Here is a complete list of health problems in Labrador Retrievers. The three major colors of Labs are black, yellow, and chocolate. What colors do Labrador Retrievers come in? Officially, Labrador Retrievers come in black, yellow, and chocolate. They also come in silver gray , but this color is frowned on by breed purists. These are just made-up names for yellow Labs whose shade of yellow happens to be golden or reddish or whitish. Whatever the shade, it's still just a yellow Lab. Chocolate also comes in shades: from light coffee to deep chocolate brown. Now, what about silver Labrador Retrievers? The official breed clubs, and breeders who show their dog in the conformation ring, state that silver is a disqualified color for showing purposes. In fact, most Labrador breeders insist that silver dogs aren't even purebred. Their position is that the silver gene infiltrated the Labrador's gene pool by crossbreeding Labs with Weimaraners. I think they're probably right. I think that one or more Weimaraner crosses probably did introduce the silver gene at some point. However, since genetic diversity is a good thing in living creatures, I don't view cross-breeding as an evil thing. So if there are some Weimaraner genes floating around in a silver Labrador, that wouldn't bother me. On the other hand, if I wanted a dog who could be counted on to look and act like a Lab, you're more likely to get that in a Lab who isn't silver, especially if the silver breeder is still using Weimaraners in his breeding program. And based on the appearance of some silver "Labs", there are breeders who are still crossing in Weimaraners. But almost certainly silver Labrador Retrievers are here to stay. Even though they can't be shown, the AKC still accepts them for registration. However, in a funny twist, those registration papers don't say silver. Remember, the AKC says that Labs can only be black, chocolate, or yellow. So they register silver Labs as Chocolate, because they consider silver to be a dilution of the chocolate gene. In other words, according to the AKC, your silver Lab is actually a chocolate Lab also has inherited dilution gene that washes the chocolate into a silvery gray. It doesn't end there. Some silver Labs aren't silvery gray, but dark charcoal gray. Yellow, black, and chocolate Labrador Retriever puppies. I'll be happy to show you how to raise and train your new family member. Or check out my training tips to teach your Labrador Retriever puppy to be well-behaved. Also see my advice on Labrador Retriever health care , including feeding and vaccinations If you don't have a Labrador Retriever puppy, but you want one.I can help you with that, too. Labrador Retrievers are the most common breed in the United States, so they're very easy to find. The problem is finding one with the best chances of staying healthy through the years. First, you need to think about the different types of Labrador Retriever we talked about earlier. You can buy a Labrador Retriever puppy from a show breeder who breeds Labradors to match a detailed standard of appearance for the dog show ring. Or you can buy one from a performance breeder who emphasizes an energetic temperament and strong working drives for hunting. But how they prioritize those two goals can vary greatly. Or you can just hop onto Craigslist and buy a Labrador Retriever puppy from someone who "just breeds pets" or "just had one litter. Not unless the seller has done the proper health certifications on the puppy's parents. One huge difference between a responsible breeder and an irresponsible "puppy producer" is — health certifications. You might choose to accept that risk. But then you need to be willing and able to pay a couple thousand bucks for future surgeries and lifelong meds if your Labrador Retriever ends up with cataracts and crippled joints. Labrador Retrievers are often available from dog rescue groups. Labrador Retrievers may be turned over to Rescue because they shed too much or need more exercise than the owner was prepared to give. Or perhaps they pull on the leash or jump on people. You would need to provide these dogs with the exercise and training that they are lacking. Labrador Retrievers more often, Lab crosses and mixes are frequently found in animal shelters. However, shelter personnel can be overzealous in labeling every medium- to large shorthaired black dog as a "Lab cross. Did you know there's a quick and simple DNA test that can tell you definitively which breeds make up any given dog? What breeds are similar to Labrador Retrievers? The Golden Retriever is similar to a Labrador in being a great all-around family dog and a great choice for first-time owners. Compared to Labs, Goldens tend to be even more outgoing toward everyone and more eager to please. Goldens do shed more than Labs and have a greater risk of health issues. Compared to Labs and Goldens, the Flat-Coated Retriever needs more exercise and interesting activities to keep them busy. This is not a good breed for a casual or couch potato owner. Flat-Coats also suffer from serious health issues. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a great dog for experienced owners. Compared to the Lab, a Chessie has a stronger temperament, needs more exercise, is more reserved with strangers, and can be bossy toward strange dogs. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. To help you train and care for your dog Dog training videos. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Respect Training For Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. For puppies 2 to 18 months old. Your puppy will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. If your dog is over 18 months, you'll want Respect Training For Adult Dogs: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved dog. Again your dog will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. Teach Your Dog English Words is a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will teach your adult dog to listen to you and do what you say. Related posts you might enjoy. Vocality level 4 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament Few breeds so richly deserve their popularity as does the Labrador Retriever. When trained, the breed is obedient and amiable and tolerates the antics of children, other dogs, and other pets. The Lab is a calm house dog, playful yard dog, and intense field dog, all on the same day. Labs are eager to please, enjoys learning, and excel in obedience. It is a powerful breed that loves to swim and retrieve. Labradors need daily physical and mental challenges to keep occupied. A bored Lab can get into trouble! Upkeep Labradors are active and sociable dogs. They need daily exercise, preferably in the form of retrieving and swimming. Owners with swimming pools either must fence them out or be prepared to share the pool with dogs. The Lab coat sheds water easily. Weekly brushing is needed to remove dead hair. Health Major concerns: CHD, elbow dysplasia, OCD, obesity, patellar luxation Minor concerns: cataract, CPRA, hot spots, retinal dysplasia, hypothyroidism Occasionally seen: diabetes, entropion, distichiasis, tricuspid valve dysplasia, centronuclear myopathy, exercise-induced collapse Suggested tests: hip, elbow, eye, exercise-induced collapse DNA , centronuclear myopathy , knee Life span: 10—12 years History The original Labradors were all-purpose water dogs originating in Newfoundland, not Labrador. Not only did the breed not originate in Labrador, but it also was not originally called the Labrador Retriever. These dogs—medium-sized black dogs with close hair—not only retrieved game but also retrieved fish, pulled small fishing boats through icy water and helped the fisherman in any task involving swimming. Eventually, the breed died out in Newfoundland in large part because of a heavy dog tax. However, a core of Labradors had been taken to England in the early s, and it is from these dogs, along with crosses to other retrievers, that the breed continued. It was also in England that the breed earned its reputation as an extraordinary retriever of upland game. Initially, black labs were favored over yellow or chocolate colors. By the early s, the other colors had become more accepted. The popularity of this breed has grown steadily until the Labrador Retriever became the most popular breed in America in and remains so today. Related Content.

Dietary Issues Dietary issues are a common cause of diarrhea in German Shepherds. Some dogs enjoy rummaging through the trash, which increases their risk of consuming contaminated or moldy food. This includes old food they might find on their daily walks. German Shepherds also frequently have a wide range of common food allergies or intolerances to particular ingredients in their diets. Did you know you can get an at-home pet food intolerance test? Runny poop can be a sign of digestive issues, such as eating too much food or treats too quickly. Typically, this could be: the stuffing from a favorite toy pieces of plastic from a rubber chew anything they put in their mouths! German Shepherd puppies, particularly prone to eating inedible objects, are the best example of this. Stress and Anxiety Despite their intimidating exteriors, German Shepherds are susceptible to the effects of stress, which can show up in a number of ways, including diarrhea. You might be surprised to find their bowel patterns react to changes in your lifestyle! Medications A German Shepherd may experience diarrhea and episodes of runny poop from certain medications that irritate their stomach and intestines. Some examples of drugs that may result in diarrhea as a side effect Antibiotics: Antibiotics can disrupt the healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to stomach upset and diarrhea. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs : These drugs are generally given to relieve pain, such as in the case of arthritis, but can cause stomach irritation. Chemotherapy drugs: Chemotherapy drugs that are used to treat cancer are not well-tolerated in some dogs and have side effects, such as diarrhea. Antidepressants: Some dogs on antidepressants to help with anxiety and stress issues may experience bouts of runny poop while on the medication. If your German Shepherd exhibits any unusual symptoms while taking medication, call your veterinarian right away. They may suggest switching to a different drug or adjusting the dosage. Bacterial and Viral Infections German Shepherds can develop diarrhea from two common infections: parvovirus salmonella If your dog consumes contaminated food or drinks dirty water, she could become ill with salmonella. Salmonella levels are higher in stagnant bodies of water, such as ponds and lakes. These are the same places that many German Shepherds enjoy sipping from and swimming in! In addition to being extremely contagious in dogs, another virus called parvovirus can be fatal if not treated quickly. For German Shepherd puppies, it poses a particular risk. These parasites can affect the digestive system and harm the gut lining, resulting in diarrhea, stomach aches, and inflammation. They might also obstruct the intestines, which might result in episodes of runny poop. Giardia, on the other hand, is a protozoan parasite that attaches to the gut lining and causes irritation and inflammation, which can result in diarrhea. As long as your dog is eating and drinking and otherwise seems like their normal self, then treating them at home is generally safe source. Temporarily withhold food. Withholding food for a short period of time is one of the most recommended treatments for German Shepherd diarrhea. This allows the digestive system to rest and lets the stomach recover from irritation. Many dogs will naturally be reluctant to eat when their stomachs are upset, but some will continue to eat almost anything you put in front of them. Your German Shepherd needs access to clean, fresh water to avoid dehydration while experiencing diarrhea. Give them small, bland meals. This allows their stomachs to gradually adjust to processing food once more. Your German Shepherd can be fed a bland diet for up to 3 days. After 3 days, start gradually weaning them back to their regular food. A bland diet is an easy-to-digest homemade food that helps German Shepherds with diarrhea by promoting stomach healing and easing the signs of an upset stomach. There are generally two main ingredients: boiled, skinless, boneless chicken and cooked unseasoned white rice. The main objective of feeding your German Shepherd a bland diet is to give them easily absorbed protein and carbohydrates while keeping them away from any ingredients that will worsen their diarrhea. After your German Shepherd starts passing solid feces, you can gradually reintroduce their regular food over the course of a few days by blending small amounts of their regular food with the bland diet food. Add daily probiotics to their diet. A probiotic supplement may be beneficial for some German Shepherds because it contains healthy bacteria that can balance the gut microbiota and support digestive health. Probiotics for German Shepherds PetHonesty makes this delicious probiotic for German Shepherds available as chewable, simple-to-take tablets that contain various probiotic strains. Giving probiotic supplements to your German shepherd may also have the following benefits: Improved digestion. Signs of worms in poop Your vet will treat diarrhea depending on the cause, and further investigations may be required. Never give your German Shepherd any anti-diarrhea medications e. How to Prevent Diarrhea in German Shepherds It would be impossible for your German Shepherd to never suffer from the odd case of diarrhea. But there are some things you can do. To prevent diarrhea in your German Shepherd, feed a complete and nutritious diet, and avoid table scraps and titbits that your dog is not used to. Avoid anything toxic and ensure your GSD does not get into the garbage. Ensure worming treatment and vaccinations are up to date. Follow these simple guidelines to prevent diarrhea: Make sure you know all the dangerous poisonous foods for your German Shepherd. Ensure your GSD keeps to its usual diet. Prevent guests to your home from feeding titbits, especially toxic foods that they may be unaware of, for example, grapes or chocolate. Be wary of feeding bones , as they must be raw and be of the correct type and size for your dog. Keep all toxic substances out of reach of your dog. The Pet Poison Helpline has a complete list of these. Consider a muzzle when you are out in the woods or park to prevent your dog from scavenging if they are that way inclined. Keep worming treatment up to date. Vets recommend every three months — but check for your breed. Keep vaccinations up to date. Exercise your German Shepherd regularly, especially if they suffer from stress. Refrain from exercising your dog immediately before or after a meal. I like to give my German Shepherd a good hour on either side, which also helps prevent bloat. Acute diarrhea, which is the most common type, usually lasts for one to two days and can sometimes last up to two weeks. Chronic diarrhea, on the other hand, lasts for at least four weeks. The duration of diarrhea in German Shepherds can vary depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, a temporary change in diet may be recommended by a veterinarian to help manage the diarrhea, but this should only be done under the guidance of a professional. Feed your dog plain, easily digestible food such as chicken and rice to get him back on his feet again. I hope you found the above prevention tips helpful, which will minimize the risk of this unpleasant and messy occurrence! Related Posts You May Like:. Dietary issues or consuming rotten or toxic foods are the main causes of diarrhea in German Shepherds. The best way to help your GSD is with a temporary fast if appropriate before following a bland food diet. Bouts of diarrhea will certainly happen to most German Shepherds throughout their life, at least a handful of times. Diarrhea is a standard reaction to sudden changes in their GI health or even reactions to stress in the world around them. Each cause requires a different treatment approach, making it essential to get to the bottom of their troubles! Dietary Issues German Shepherds are extremely curious, meaning they often try to eat anything that may seem edible. Not only do they scarf up any food that crosses their path, but they can get their paws on human food as well. Dietary issues in dogs refer to eating anything outside of their normal diet. This can include getting into the trash, eating a greasy piece of bacon, or even eating something rotten found outside. When a dog eats something outside of their normal kibble, this can cause a sudden shift in the bacteria in their gut and intestines. This is made much worse by any high-fat content that could be in the food, along with any dangerous bacteria that could be present as well. Whether your vet suggests a new food or your pup no longer likes their kibble, an occasional diet is sometimes needed. A sudden change in diet can cause a shift in this balance, leading to GI irritation. A change of diet that is not done over a gradual period will likely lead to diarrhea, and even vomiting in some cases. Stress Just like you and I, our German Shepherds can experience stress and in severe cases, even depression. While they may have different triggers than humans, their struggles are just as real. Dogs can react to this stress in multiple ways, one of which being diarrhea. There are many factors that can cause a GSD to become stressed. They may react to changes in their normal routine, new people in the home, the sudden absence of someone they love, or any other change that impacts their life. This is extremely common in dogs that are boarded while their owners are away, so much so that kennel owners know to be on the lookout for any sign of diarrhea. Bacterial Infections Our German Shepherds are exposed to different types of bacteria all the time. Bacteria live in the soil they touch, the bowls they drink out of, and even some of the toys they play with. Because of this, dogs can fall victim to bacterial infections that cause an upset stomach. Most dogs with a bacterial infection will experience diarrhea, vomiting, change of appetite , abdominal pain, and more. Bacterial infections often require veterinary care, as most pups will need antibiotics to get them back on track. Intestinal Parasites Intestinal parasites are foreign invaders that cause serious GI upset in our German Shepherd friends. Shepherds with intestinal parasites may experience diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, lack of appetite, weight loss , abdominal pain, distended abdomens, and more. The best way to prevent intestinal parasites is to have your pup dewormed from the moment you adopt them, and then offer them monthly heartworm prevention. Most heartworm prevention contains ingredients that stop worms in their tracks. Serious Illness Diarrhea can be a symptom of serious illness in German Shepherds. This combination can cause diarrhea for many dogs, especially if it is a GI illness in particular. Be sure to keep a log of all the symptoms your dog is currently experiencing, so you can help your vet make an accurate diagnosis. While any diarrhea that lasts longer than 24 hours should be seen by a vet, there are a few at-home options to try. Withholding Food Withholding food for hours is an option that can be practiced in certain dogs. If you know that your dog is having diarrhea due to something they ate, this can be a successful way to let their stomach calm down. Fasting should only be practiced in healthy adult dogs, and when approved by your veterinarian. You should never fast a German Shepherd puppy or senior dog, as this can lead to more complications. Switch To a Bland Diet Switching to a bland diet is one of the most successful ways to combat diarrhea in your canine companion. When a dog is experiencing an upset stomach, it can be challenging to properly digest their normal food. The most popular bland diet option is boiled chicken breast and white rice, but you can also purchase a bland diet from your veterinarian. Some vets do approve pro-pectalin for use at home, but this should always be approved before giving it to your furry friend. Your vet can also prescribe antibiotics that help with diarrhea, along with medication to firm their stool. Diarrhea is often a result of some type of irritation in the GI tract, making probiotics useful in many cases. Probiotics are packed with beneficial bacteria that helps to promote digestive health. Adding daily probiotics to a bland diet can help your pup get back on track. This is especially important for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs, as they may be easily triggered by certain changes. The general rule is to always seek help if their diarrhea does not resolve within 24 hours. However, there are a few special circumstances that require veterinary care much sooner. Final Thoughts As you can see, German Shepherds can experience diarrhea due to multiple causes. Be sure to review the information that we discussed above, and you can help your pup at the next sign of diarrhea. The Puppy Mag makes an active effort to search for plagiarized content using plagiarism detection software. If plagiarized content is found, action will be taken. What Is Diarrhea? Diarrhea refers to a condition where a dog passes soft or watery stool during bowel movement. Doggy diarrhea is not a disease itself. Rather, it is a symptom of an underlying issue. The stool will usually occur in large amounts and in greater frequency than normal. Physiologically speaking, diarrhea occurs due to fecal matter passing too quickly through the intestine while the absorption speed of electrolytes, nutrients, and water is decreased. Symptoms of Diarrhea in a German Shepherd Diarrhea can appear on its own, but it can also have other accompanying symptoms. The most common symptoms are bloody stool red or black , a low-grade fever, lethargy, flatulence, loss of appetite, and vomiting as in gastroenteritis. In cases wherein these symptoms also appear alongside diarrhea, it is best to bring your dog to the vet immediately. What Causes Diarrhea in German Shepherds? Throughout the lifetime of your German Shepherd, she will most probably experience diarrhea at least a few times. The most common causes of diarrhea in GSDs are the following: Viral infections, such as one that is caused by parvovirus or canine distemper virus , especially in young, unvaccinated dogs Stress brought about by a change in environment or traveling Abrupt change in diet or treats Poor diet Food allergies or sensitivities, such as dairy products Intestinal parasites which can come from raw meat Ingesting poisonous substances, spoiled food, garbage, or foreign objects Antibiotic medication In rare cases, tumor s in the digestive tract cancer Types of Diarrhea in German Shepherds Diarrhea is a general term, but there are several different types of it. Acute and Chronic Diarrhea Depending on the underlying cause, diarrhea in your GSD can be acute short-lived or chronic happening intermittently over course of weeks or months. Sudden acute diarrhea can appear if your GSD ingests something that does not get along well with her intestines. GSDs have a higher prey drive than most breeds, making them susceptible to chasing rodents and squirrels when left to their own devices. If your dog ingests the meat of these animals, the bacteria in the meat can upset her stomach. German Shepherds and larger breeds in general are more predisposed to this chronic disease than smaller dogs, especially during middle age. Oftentimes, veterinarians prescribe medication to manage the symptoms, as this is an incurable condition. Small intestinal diarrhea is usually caused by bacterial and viral infections, parasites, food sensitivities, IBD, ingested garbage, poison, or foreign objects. In this type of diarrhea, your GSD may pass large amounts of stool about three to five times per day, without straining. Your dog may also vomit, pass gas frequently, and lose weight. On the other hand, large intestinal diarrhea also known as colitis is often caused by whipworms, colon ulcers, colon cancer, IBD, and stress. Colitis is characterized by more frequent passing of stool more than five times a day in smaller amounts, and your GSD may strain in the process. Blood in the stool may appear bright red, and mucus may also be present. Unlike small intestinal diarrhea, large intestinal diarrhea does not always cause vomiting or weight loss in dogs. In some cases, your dog may exhibit a combination of these two types of diarrhea. For instance, the problem can start in the small intestine and then proceed to the large intestine. However, always provide plenty of fresh water nearby to avoid dehydration. After the hour fast, feed your dog a bland diet. Opt for skinless, boneless boiled chicken and broth. You can mix in a few small spoonfuls of mashed pumpkin, sweet potatoes, or potatoes, but make sure that they are unseasoned and unsalted. Rice can be added, too, as long as your GSD is not sensitive to it. These foods will help to firm up the stool. Start with small meals every two hours, then gradually increase the amount of food and the time in between meals. Be very cautious when transitioning your GSD to her previous diet. The transition should be spaced out and gradually done over a few days. If this successfully resolves the diarrhea, you can get her back to her regular food. You may be tempted to give your dog some medication to help ease her discomfort and cure her diarrhea. It is important, however, to understand the risks and to follow proper instructions before you do so. Imodium Imodium is a common over the counter medication that many people give to their dogs to treat diarrhea. Imodium, known generically as Loperamide, is effective in slowing down the movement of the intestines, allowing nutrients to be absorbed more slowly. As previously mentioned, and this bears repeating, you must be very careful when administering Imodium to your GSD. Always consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog Imodium. Imodium Loperamide is a synthetic opioid, and it is possible to overdose your dog if you are not careful. Never give Imodium to puppies, pregnant and nursing GSDs, senior GSDs, and those with other medical illnesses such as liver disease, kidney disease, and hypothyroidism. Some of the side effects of Imodium may include: Constipation. As your dog produces more solid bowel movements, you can start reintroducing his dog food. What are the best dog foods to prevent diarrhea in German Shepherds? If your dog has diarrhea every once in a while, it is completely normal. Yet, if your German Shepherd has diarrhea several times a month, he may have sensitivities to his current dog food. You can have your dog tested at the vet to see what foods he cannot tolerate. Then, you may need to switch dog foods. There are many different types of dog foods you can try to help prevent your dog from having diarrhea. Limited Ingredient Dog Food Limited ingredient dog foods have a short list of ingredients. You can read the ingredients to find out if there is something your dog may not tolerate well. Limited-ingredient diets are great for avoiding the typical triggers for diarrhea. These dog foods still provide balanced nutrition. Actual food allergies are rare in dogs. Most people confuse sensitivities with allergies. This is usually because of an enzyme deficiency. Allergies are an intense immune response to an ingredient. Allergies cause diarrhea, but they are often coupled with other symptoms. These can include intense itching and respiratory symptoms. Hypoallergenic dog food manufacturers take animal protein and split them at the atomic level. This dog food is best for a dog who has a known allergen causing his diarrhea. These dog foods target the exact cause of stomach irritation. These diets are tested by nutritionists and veterinarians to specifically treat certain conditions. These dog foods are only available through a prescription from your vet. These dog foods are for German Shepherds with known medical conditions causing their diarrhea, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome. GSDs need to re-establish healthy bacteria in their digestive tracts, especially after a bout of loose stools. Purina FortiFlora Probiotics for Dogs is one of the most commonly used products in this category. This should help your dog build up the healthy bacteria he needs to create solid stools. You can also buy dog food with probiotics in the formula. Purina Pro Plan is a good option for promoting digestive health. This brand incorporates probiotics in the formula, helping to balance gut flora on a regular basis. This dog food is good for German Shepherds who have loose stools and occasional diarrhea. Homemade recipes There are several foods you can serve your dog at home when he suffers from diarrhea. Immediately after an episode, you can give him chicken and rice, which is easy to digest. This way, you can control what ingredients your dog ingests. If you choose to feed your dog homemade meals, make sure to research carefully. Your dog needs a complete balance of nutrients to be healthy. Does wet dog food make diarrhea in German Shepherds worse? But, German Shepherds have a difficult time switching dog foods. The change in diet may upset his tummy for a few days. This should clear up once your dog gets used to the new diet. Wet dog foods are high in protein and water, which is good for a German Shepherd. Your dog needs to stay hydrated if he often has diarrhea. However, wet dog foods can also cause tooth decay. So, be sure to read the list of ingredients. How do I choose the best dog food for my German Shepherd? German Shepherds have sensitive stomachs. They are both prone to stomach upsets and picky eating, so finding the right food is essential to making sure your dog is healthy. Puppies need more nutrient-rich foods, more often to aid their quick growth. Very active German Shepherds need more calories because they are constantly burning them. Older dogs need smaller portions, fewer calories, and reduced protein. As your dog changes and grows, it is important to select dog foods that cater to its needs. Take a look at the ingredients The most common ingredients German Shepherds are sensitive to are beef, lamb, dairy, wheat, chicken, and soy. However, dogs can be sensitive to any ingredients in dog food, including preservatives. If your German Shepherd has a sensitivity to a certain ingredient, you should make sure to avoid it. The smaller the ingredient list on a label, the better. Lower-quality dog foods add many fillers and preservatives to their formulas. Determine your price range Dog food is expensive, especially for a large dog like the German Shepherd. You may be looking at the price of these specialty dog foods and wondering how you can afford them. Although many of the higher-quality dog foods are expensive, they are worth it in the long run. Quality dog food prevents stomach and other health issues. You will have fewer diarrhea messes to clean up and fewer vet bills. So, the cost will balance out. This prevents you from contracting bacteria from the feces. If the stool is on a hard surface, you can grab a paper towel and wipe it up before it dries. Then, place the soiled towels into a disposable bag. If you have hardwood or vinyl, grab a disinfectant safe for those surfaces. Then, spray the area and wipe it again with a fresh paper towel or washcloth. Finally, use a pet odor neutralizer such as this one here to remove the scent from the floor. Removing diarrhea stains from carpet If the soft stool is on the carpet, you will want to grab your gloves. Pick up as much of the feces as possible with a paper towel. Then, use a butter knife, dustpan, or scraper to free the particles from the carpet fibers. Use a damp cloth or a water bottle to rinse the carpet area until there is no longer any visible stool. Mix equal parts of the ingredients. Be cautious, they produce a chemical reaction that spews everywhere. Then, apply the paste to the carpet and rinse with water.