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Feed a balanced diet with essential nutrients, consider omega-3 fatty acid supplements Temperament and Personality Traits Looking to understand the personality of a German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix? Well, let's dive into their temperament and personality traits! From intelligence and trainability to energy levels and exercise needs, we'll explore what makes this mix so unique. Plus, we'll delve into socialization and their behavior with other pets. Get ready to uncover the charms and quirks of this fascinating hybrid breed! Intelligence and Trainability Intelligence and trainability are essential factors to consider when selecting a German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix as a companion. Both the German Shepherd and Irish Setter breeds are known for their high intelligence, and this mix naturally inherits these traits. They have a knack for quickly grasping commands and tasks. Positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise are particularly effective. Consistent training from an early age is pivotal in shaping their behavior. In addition, this mix possesses impressive problem-solving abilities. They have the capability to come up with innovative solutions. To maintain their mental sharpness, it is important to provide them with mental stimulation and engaging activities. The strong work ethic of German Shepherds combines with the desire to please their owners exhibited by Irish Setters, making this mix both motivated and focused during training sessions. They excel in various training disciplines such as obedience, agility, tracking, and search and rescue, thanks to their intelligence and trainability. Understanding the intelligence and trainability of a German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix plays a crucial role in their mental stimulation and overall training. With proper guidance and consistent training, they can develop into well-behaved and obedient companions. It is crucial to provide them with regular physical activity to prevent boredom and restlessness. Aim for at least minutes of daily exercise, which can include brisk walks, jogging, running, fetch, or any other engaging activities. Mental stimulation is also vital, so consider incorporating puzzles, training sessions, or interactive toys into their routine. To satisfy their natural instincts and burn off excess energy, find a safe and secure area for off-leash play. Keep them engaged by introducing different types of exercises, such as agility training, swimming, hiking , or playdates with other friendly dogs. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before implementing any new exercise routines to receive personalized recommendations based on your dog's age, health, and specific needs. Socialization and Behavior with Other Pets When it comes to socialization and behavior with other pets, the German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix is known for being friendly and sociable. It is important to properly socialize them from an early age. Gradually introduce your German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix to other pets under controlled circumstances to ensure a positive interaction. During supervised playtime, use positive reinforcement to cultivate good behavior and positive associations with other pets. It is crucial to monitor these interactions to prioritize everyone's safety, especially during the initial socialization phase. Consistent training and positive reinforcement will further enhance your German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix's ability to get along with other pets. If you notice signs of aggression or conflict, it is recommended to seek professional help from a dog trainer or behaviorist. When introducing your German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix to other pets, remember to be patient and provide a calm and controlled environment. The safety and well-being of all animals involved should always be a priority. With proper socialization and positive reinforcement, your German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix can become a well-adjusted and friendly companion to other pets in your household. In this section, we will explore the key aspects that contribute to their well-being. From coat maintenance techniques to exercise requirements and regular vet check-ups, we will cover it all. So buckle up and get ready to learn how to keep your adorable hybrid pup looking and feeling their best. To ensure your dog's coat stays in good condition, here are some helpful tips: It is recommended to brush your dog's coat at least once a week. This will not only help remove loose hair but also prevent matting. Regular brushing helps distribute natural oils, resulting in a shiny and healthy coat. Bathing your dog every weeks using a gentle dog shampoo is essential. Make sure to thoroughly rinse off all soap residue to avoid any discomfort or skin issues. To prevent matting and keep your dog's feet clean, regularly trim the hair around their paws and nails. Professional grooming services are worth considering, as they can help you with coat trimming, ear cleaning, and maintaining your dog's overall appearance. Keep in mind that each dog is unique, so adjust your grooming routine based on your dog's specific coat condition. Taking proper care of your German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix's coat will ensure they always look and feel their best. Exercise and Activity Requirements German Shepherd Irish Setter mixes have specific exercise and activity requirements that are essential for their overall well-being and to prevent any potential behavioral issues. Here are some important guidelines to follow in order to meet their needs: 1. Regular Exercise: These mixes need to engage in hours of physical activity every day. This can include activities such as walks , jogs, hikes, or allowing them to play in a securely fenced yard. Mental Stimulation: In addition to physical exercise, it is crucial to provide them with mental stimulation. This can be achieved through the use of interactive toys, puzzle games, and obedience training, which not only keeps their minds sharp but also prevents boredom. Obedience Training: Training sessions play a vital role in cultivating their intelligence and improving their behavior. German Shepherd Irish Setter mixes are highly intelligent and trainable, so regular training sessions ensure that they become well-behaved and obedient pets. Socialization: It is important to provide opportunities for these mixes to socialize with other dogs and people. This will help them develop proper social skills and ensure that they remain friendly and comfortable in various environments. Variation in Activities: To prevent boredom, it is necessary to vary their exercise routines. Incorporating activities such as swimming, agility training, or playing fetch can help keep them engaged and fulfilled. By meeting the exercise and activity requirements of a German Shepherd Irish Setter mix, you can have a happy and well-rounded companion. It is important to observe their individual needs and make adjustments to their exercise routine accordingly. Consulting with a veterinarian or professional trainer is always beneficial to ensure that you are providing the precise exercise and activity requirements for your specific German Shepherd Irish Setter mix. These check-ups are essential for detecting health issues early on. During check-ups, the veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination, including checking overall condition, listening to the heart and lungs, examining eyes, ears, and teeth, and performing vaccinations or screenings. Common health concerns for this breed include hip dysplasia, bloat, allergies , and genetic predispositions. Check-ups can help manage these health concerns and provide guidance on nutrition and exercise. Follow your vet's recommendations for regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care to ensure your dog's best possible health and increase life expectancy. Training and Socialization When it comes to training and socializing your German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix, it's essential to understand the importance of both basic obedience training and socialization with people and other animals. In this section, we'll explore the key factors that contribute to a well-behaved and well-adjusted canine companion. From establishing a foundation of obedience to fostering positive interactions, we'll uncover the tools and techniques necessary for a harmonious bond between you, your dog, and the world around you. Socialization with People and Other Animals Socialization with people and other animals is crucial for a German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix to thrive and develop into a well-adjusted dog. Here are some important considerations: Early exposure: Expose your German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix puppy to people, animals, and environments from a young age. This helps them learn how to interact appropriately and confidently. Positive experiences: Ensure that your dog has positive experiences with people of all ages, including children, as well as other animals. Encourage gentle and supervised interactions, rewarding good behavior and providing guidance when needed. Training: Training is essential for socialization. Teach your dog basic obedience commands to ensure they are well-behaved and responsive in different situations. This will also help them understand boundaries and communicate effectively with both people and other animals. Consistency: Regularly expose your German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix to new experiences and reinforce positive behaviors. This will help them become comfortable and confident in various social settings and interactions. Exposure to different environments: Take your dog on walks and outings to expose them to different sights, sounds, and smells. This will help them become more adaptable and less likely to be fearful or anxious in new situations. Remember, every dog is unique, and the socialization process may vary for each individual. If you have any concerns or need assistance, consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. With proper socialization, your German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix can develop into a friendly, well-mannered companion. Are you considering a German Shepherd Irish Setter mix as your new furry companion? Let's find out if they are the right dog for you. We'll explore the ideal living situation and environment for this mix, the time and commitment required to care for them, and the experience needed with dog ownership. Get ready to discover if the German Shepherd Irish Setter mix is a perfect match for your lifestyle and preferences! Ideal Living Situation and Environment The ideal living situation and environment for a German Shepherd Irish Setter mix prioritizes their needs for space, exercise, and a calm atmosphere. When considering the best living conditions for this mixed breed, it is important to take into account the following factors: 1. Space: Providing a large fenced yard for them to freely run and play is crucial. Keep in mind that apartments or small houses may not offer enough room to accommodate their high energy levels. Exercise: This particular mix is highly active and therefore requires regular exercise. Engaging them in daily walks, runs, or playtime in a safe, open area will keep both their physical and mental states stimulated. Quiet Environment: German Shepherds tend to be sensitive to noise, while Irish Setters are known for their gentle and friendly nature. Thus, the ideal living situation for this mix would be in a calm neighborhood or away from busy streets. Companionship: These dogs thrive in homes with families that can dedicate time to them. They cherish being a part of activities and spending time with their owners, so a household where they can receive consistent companionship is highly beneficial. Climate: Since this mix has a thick coat more suitable for colder weather, it is important to consider the climate they will be living in. If residing in warmer regions, ensure that they have ample shade and access to fresh water. It is crucial to remember that in order for a German Shepherd Irish Setter mix to be happy and well-adjusted, they require a spacious environment, regular exercise, and a peaceful atmosphere. To ensure that you provide the necessary time and commitment for this mixed breed, here are the steps to follow: 1. Allocate a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise, and training. It is important to set aside specific times each day for these activities as this breed requires daily exercise for their overall health and well-being. Set aside time for grooming. Regular brushing and occasional baths are necessary to keep their coat clean and healthy. Be prepared to engage in mental stimulation activities. This mix is an intelligent breed and benefits greatly from puzzle toys or obedience training to keep their minds active. Plan for socialization opportunities. Regular interactions with both people and animals are essential in order to develop good behavior. Arrange for regular veterinary check-ups. Routine check-ups and vaccinations are vital for maintaining their health. Invest time in training and obedience. Consistent training is crucial in order to have a well-behaved companion. Be prepared for a long-term commitment. This mix can live for years, so it is important to be ready and willing to take on the responsibility for their entire lifespan. Ensure that you provide a suitable living environment. They need space to roam and exercise, so having a secure and spacious area for them is essential. By considering these factors and being committed to providing the necessary time and care, you can ensure a happy and fulfilling life with your German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix. Experience with Dog Ownership Experience with Dog Ownership is an essential factor to consider when deciding to bring a new furry friend into your home. If you have never owned a dog before, it is advisable to start with a breed known for being more easygoing and adaptable. Taking the time to understand the responsibilities of dog ownership is crucial as it requires daily exercise, feeding, grooming, and attention. Training is an integral part of owning a dog , especially for breeds like the German Shepherd Irish Setter Mix, known for their intelligence and energy levels. It is important to assess your experience and commitment to consistent training. Financial Responsibility is another significant aspect to mull over before adopting a dog. Owning a dog can be quite costly, considering expenses such as food, veterinary care, grooming, and supplies. Ensuring that you are financially prepared is essential to provide the best care for your furry companion. Your Lifestyle and Living Situation are crucial factors to evaluate. Dogs need ample space, exercise, and a safe environment. Living in an apartment or having other pets may require additional considerations. Assessing and making adjustments to your lifestyle and living situation will contribute to a harmonious and fulfilling life with your new dog. The German Shepherd Irish Setter mix, also known as the Irish Shepherd, is a beautiful and intelligent designer dog breed. It is a random crossbreed between a serious German Shepherd and a playful Irish Setter. This breed can vary in personality traits, leaning towards either parent breed. What are the characteristics of a German Shepherd Irish Setter mix? The German Shepherd Irish Setter mix is affectionate, good with children, and can be good with other dogs if socialized and trained properly. They are highly active and require a large, fenced-in backyard to run around in. This breed requires mental stimulation and physical exercise to remain well-behaved and happy. Is a German Shepherd Irish Setter mix good for families? Yes, the German Shepherd Irish Setter mix can be a perfect family pup. They are good with kids and can be loving and affectionate towards their family members. Their high-energy levels may be too much for small children, so supervision and proper training are important. How should a German Shepherd Irish Setter mix be trained? A German Shepherd Irish Setter mix should be trained well to ensure they develop proper behavior. Basic obedience training is essential, and consistent socialization from a young age is important. Positive reinforcement techniques should be used, along with mental stimulation activities like canine competitions or interactive puzzles. Can a German Shepherd Irish Setter mix participate in canine competitions? Yes, the German Shepherd Irish Setter mix can be a natural candidate for canine competitions. They are intelligent and can excel in activities such as obedience trials, agility, or even tracking competitions. With proper training and socialization, they can become well-rounded competitors. If you are interested in giving a German Shepherd Irish Setter mix a forever home, you can contact local rescue organizations or breed-specific rescue groups. They often have mixed breeds available for adoption, and you may find a beautiful addition to your family. The rescue organization mentioned in the reference data can be a good place to start. Conclusion: In the vast world of dog mixes, the German Shepherd-Irish Setter stands out as a distinctive blend, inheriting both the loyalty of the Shepherd and the grace of the Setter. This mix not only combines the physical attributes of both breeds but also marries their temperament, ensuring a loyal, playful, and trainable companion. For those seeking a dog with a balance of energy, intelligence, and elegance, the German Shepherd-Irish Setter mix proves to be a truly special blend. The link has been copied! You might also like. Unsurprisingly, these traits are passed down to most of its mixes! As promised, here are ten stunning Irish Setter mixes you might want to consider for a new pet: 1. It comes in standard and miniature sizes due to the varying sizes of its Poodle parent. Generally, Irish Doodles are intelligent and high-energy mixed breeds. Training them is a breeze, and they respond well to positive training. They are amazing family pets and do well with kids around the house. This means you cannot leave them for long periods. Among the other Irish Setter mixes in this list, the Irish Doodle also fetches a higher price tag, especially the miniature. This hybrid is a great family companion because it is intuitive and friendly. Most Golden Irish mixes come in red, fawn, or brown coloration. Their coat grows straight, dense, and long similar to their parent breeds. It can grow into a large dog, so it needs ample yard space to run and play around. Irish Shepherds are known to be highly active, so they may run off and get lost in your neighborhood. Many pet owners suggest installing a fence for this mixed breed. Also, their high energy may be too much for small children. Do not leave them playing with your infant or toddler, as it may result in a disaster. They also do well in canine sports. But besides looks, it also boasts of its outgoing and bubbly personality. The Irish Setter and the Labrador Retriever are both high-spirited breeds; thus, you can expect no less from their hybrid. What this means is that they need consistent mental stimulation and exercise. Since this mix has a long coat, you can expect them to shed throughout the year, too. If you have an allergy or live with someone who does, getting a Lab Setter may not be the best idea. They get along with every single member of the family, including infants, toddlers, and seniors. Since both the parents of the Cocker Spaniel Irish Setter mix are sporting dogs, you can expect them to enjoy working and joining agility competitions. They will have an easy gait, and their movements are pretty swift. The coat of the Cocker Spaniel Irish Setter mix can be sandy blonde or golden brown. Due to the intimidating size of the Rottweiler, the Rottweiler Irish Setter mix is also a pretty large dog. It needs a vast space to roam around, and installing a fence is highly suggested. If your family needs a guard dog, the Rottie Irish Setter mix is a great candidate. Although it is gentle to kids, its protective instincts still manifest when they sense that you and your family are in danger. This mix also exhibits a long coat that adds to its elegant and graceful appearance. Although not inherently aggressive, the Afghan Hound Irish Setter mix can serve as a great guard dog. The Afghan Hound Irish Setter mix is also perfect for canine sports such as agility and rally. If you need a running or hunting companion, this mix will also be glad to accompany you. You always have to keep an eye out for this mix because they are extremely curious and active. They get along well with kids, pets, and even strangers. In fact, they are too friendly to be guard dogs. The coat of the Husky Setter mix is usually double-coated, just like its parent breeds. Grooming is required once a week to keep its coat tangle and mat free. But despite their natural guard dog instincts, they may also be clownish. If you have little children in the family, it is not suggested to adopt an Irish Dobe Setter. They are too rambunctious or energetic for innocent kids, and possible accidents may occur. This canine may also be too overprotective, so you should not directly introduce them to strangers. It may take a while for them to warm up, so be very cautious when you bring them outside or when someone visits your home. Usually, we suggest adoption since it is more practical. Aside from the cost of purchasing or adopting an Irish Setter mix, you should also prepare for the following initial expenses: Type of Expense. Dog Care By Kelsey Leicht 18 min read June 9, K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. While Irish setters are undeniably great dogs for some families, there are also Irish setter mixes waiting to meet their perfect someone. Irish Setter Breed Basics The Irish setter is a stunning red sniffer, with her coat coming in three shades: chestnut, mahogany, and red. It can also include white markings, per the standard. Read on to learn more must-know facts about this dashing darling. History Irish setters date back to the s in Ireland, where they began as beloved bird-hunting dogs. The multi-talented mutts also flushed birds from thick brush and retrieved prey once downed. The breed was developed by combining several dogs, including the Gordon setter, the English setter, various spaniels, and the pointer. Talk about one blended barker! Size The Irish setter is a tall, slim breed, with males standing up to 27 inches at the shoulder. Females measure 25 inches at the shoulder and weigh 60 pounds at the most. Health Several health concerns of Irish setters are shared by other big dogs, like a risk of hip dysplasia. Other potential problems include thyroid disease and an eye disease called progressive retinal atrophy. Avoiding these issues starts with selecting a breeder who performs health testing before breeding to ensure healthy pups. Another major concern in the breed is canine bloat , a dangerous condition in which the stomach fills with air, which is seen most often in deep-chested breeds. So, learn to recognize the symptoms of this potentially deadly condition before bringing one of these beauties home. Temperament The Irish setter is one of the most affectionate dog breeds. She is patient with kids and great with other animals, making her one of the best choices for family life. She will gladly drop everything and fetch toys flung around the yard. Training Irish setters are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. Treats and positivity go a long way with these pooches. You can easily set a setter back significantly in learning and damage your bond with aversive training methods. Keep her focused on training lessons by making your routine diverse and non-repetitive. Switch it up, and watch her shine. Brush her coat a few times weekly to prevent tangles, especially around her long ears, tail, and leg feathers. Some owners also opt to have their setters professionally groomed, ensuring the legs and tail look tidy. As with any pup, regular toothbrushing and nail trims are essential. Ready to meet some amazing Irish setter mixes that are big, small, and everything in between? These are general overviews. Some dogs meet the behaviors of both breeds to a T, while others are the polar pup opposite. Considering how great both goldens and setters are with kids, this pooch will probably be a family dog at heart, too. Not surprisingly, grooming this long-haired lady will likely be a lot of work. Expect to brush her a few times weekly to prevent matting. If not, her legs and ears can look a little scraggly. Irish Setter x Brittany A post shared by Jean Pillsbury jeanpillsbury Family dogs unite in this cute combination of sporting breeds. With the setter side being sweet as pie and the spaniel portion being playful, this canine may be a great choice for life with kiddos who know how to treat her respectfully. Active owners would enjoy an action-packed pupper like this setter-spaniel smashup. Consider canine sports, such as obedience, to ensure her day-to-day life has enough enrichment activities to ward off boredom behaviors. Maybe even a combination of the two! Plenty of socialization with strange people and pets is vital with this pup, as Akitas and Akita mixes can be unsure of newcomers. Obedience training with lots of rewards is also critical since Akitas are known to be stubborn and one of the most independent dog breeds. Irish Husky Irish Setter x Siberian Husky A post shared by Stephen Rummel-Chadderdon bigsteve Will this setter- husky mix be as vocal as her sled dog side, or will she be quiet and content indoors, like her setter roots? Patience and a sense of humor are needed during training sessions. She may get the short, sleek coat of a Doberman or the flowing locks of a setter, and her coloring is just as hard to predict. Canine bloat is something to watch for since both parenting breeds are deep-chested. Talk with your vet for more information. No harsh corrections, please! Grooming this gorgeous girl can be challenging. Brushing her several times weekly is critical for keeping mats at bay. To make it easier, have her professionally clipped every six to eight weeks and keep up on frequent brushing between sessions to keep her comfortable and cute. Combining two pups with famously flowing coats will create one beautiful barker! All this hair is a lot to handle, but combing her thoroughly a few times a week keeps her hair healthy and tangle-free. Since Afghans and setters are loyal and affectionate, this pup has the potential to be your new favorite shadow. Training this mixed mutt can be difficult. While setters are eager to please, Afghan hounds consistently score very poorly on intelligence tests. Just know she can be leggy like the setter or stout like a pit bull. Positivity and rewards go a long way in training this combo cutie. Aversive punishments should never be used, as both parenting breeds are sensitive spirits. Socialization with strange people and dogs is recommended, along with confidence building through obedience training, as pitties can be selective of strangers and unsure of new situations. Irish Collie Irish Setter x Border Collie A post shared by Penny pennytheirishcollie Mixing a herding legend with a field flusher may create a dog with drive and energy. She can work this out around the farm or in doggy sports, as the border collie is one of the best dog breeds for agility. Training can be a delight but also frustrating since bright barkers tend to tune out repetitive lessons. Use dog training toys and training games to keep your routine fun and engaging. How fun! The result may resemble a smaller version of the Irish setter, helping the pup fit into many apartment weight limits for dogs. Likely more compact than a typical setter, this floof may also be a top-notch travel companion for RV and camping excursions. Both parenting pups have high-maintenance coats, and this mix is likely to be the same. To prevent tangles from forming, brush this beauty from nose-to-tail at least two or three times a week. It may also be a good idea to look into having her clipped professionally every six weeks, especially if she spends time exploring the outdoors. Irish Rottie Irish Setter x Rottweiler A post shared by Bailee Lucas bailee27w A working dog breed like the Rottie and a hunting honey like the setter will probably create a driven doggo with moderate daily exercise needs. Start obedience training and socialization early to solidify her manners and confidence, with practice exercises continued for life to keep her happy, healthy, and well-adjusted. Pairing the sleek and sophisticated setter with the back-country coonhound is one kooky combo, but it has the potential to form a sweet, sensitive pup who loves having fun. You should let her release her sniffing instincts through play, with snuffle mats being ideal for everyday enrichment exercises. Irish Setter x Basset Hound Image from zergportal. Combining one of the best noses in the dog world with a sport-loving setter may result in a mutt devoted to pursuing fun sights and smells. Setters are a biddable breed, but Bassets can be stubborn and independent. This might mean your combination critter is in the middle, making training challenging. To keep her focused, stock your training treat pouch with high-value rewards like chopped hot dogs. This floof may be the dog for you, as setters are sporty, and vizslas are among the best dogs for running. This everyday need for activity can be too much for some owners. Both parent breeds are gentle and affectionate, which lends well to life with small children. Irish Springer Irish Setter x Springer Spaniel A post shared by TheGroomSalon thegroomsalon As graceful as she is gorgeous, this blended barker is likely to be athletic, given that both of her parent breeds are accomplished huntresses. The resulting Rover may be an all-star companion who adores being by your side, whether sitting at your feet as you work or joining you on runs. Separation anxiety is a concern with this sniffer, as German shepherds are famously finicky about being away from their people. This joyous spirit pairs nicely with family life, as this canine is likely to roll with the ups and downs of kiddos, including the occasional shrieking and toddler tantrums. This makes backyard play and daily walks or jogs necessary to burn off her extra energy. Both breeds are beloved for sweet, playful temperaments, so a mix of the two is likely to inherit this pleasant personality that works well in households with children. The parenting breeds share a similar flowing coat, with the difference being coloring, as Irish setters are typically red. Just brush her a few times weekly and after off-trail walks to remove debris and prevent tangles. How much does an Irish setter mix cost? Be wary of backyard breeders charging an arm and a leg for a mixed-breed pup. Where can you find an Irish setter mix? Irish setter mixes can be found at a pound, rescue, or by contacting a breeder. Use Petfinder to search for a specific breed for adoption, like an Irish setter mix. Shelters and rescues use this database to list pets in need of homes. You can narrow things down by sex and age to ensure you find the best fit for your pack. What are Irish setters mixed with? Irish setters descend from a combination of the Gordon setter, English setter, pointer, and several spaniel types. Today, Irish setter mixes come in all sorts of combos, from common gundogs like Lab-setter mixes to rare finds like the Afghan-setter mix. What are the different types of Irish setters? These terms are just nicknames some people use to describe body style. Is there a mini Irish setter? Some Irish setter mixes resemble miniature Irish setters, particularly those mixed with spaniels, like the Irish setter-cocker spaniel mix and the Irish setter-springer mix. Do you have any of the incredible Irish setter mixes we shared? How about another Irish setter mix? Share them with us in the comments. Like it? Share it! Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The German Shepherd is known for being intelligent, curious, and alert. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful German Shepherd Dog Irish Setter Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their German Shepherd Dog Irish Setter Mix puppy. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Von Stephanitz had in his mind what a good working dog should be and a few generations of breeding fulfilled what Hektor envisioned. Horand von Grafrath is known to be the first German Shepherd Dog. Horand von Grafrath was bred to other similar styled dogs that were believed to have the same traits as what Von Stephanitz was looking for. His most successful offspring was Hektor von Schwaben. Von Stephanitz is widely credited for being the founder of this incredible breed. Von Stephanitz had intended for his breed to work as herding dogs, however, as Germany became more and more industrialized he saw the need to make it working dog. He convinced the German government to use the breed. The breed initially became popular in World War 1. Many American and allied servicemen grew attached to the breed during the war and brought them back to the states after the war was over. The Allied troops fell in love with the breed but not with the fact that it had German roots. It became common for police departments and those looking for true working dogs to import their dogs from Germany because the American dogs had such bad health problems. Irish Setter History I am sure that you can guess where this dog originated. The initial Irish Setter was called a red spaniel. They were often both white and red and not necessarily the intense red coloring you find today. They became a very popular breed in the United States with a dog named Elcho the first to be imported. The American Kennel Club recognized them very early on with a dog named Admiral joining their ranks in .The Irish Setter is a friendly, loyal breed that makes an excellent companion for active families. They are known for their affectionate nature and their love of play. Although they can be boisterous at times, they are generally gentle and good-natured. Irish Setters are also intelligent and relatively quick learners. They excel at obedience and agility trials, and they make excellent hunting dogs. They are very good with children, but their rambunctious nature may be a problem for families with very small children. Irish Setter Puppies Health Considerations Though generally very healthy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around 12 — 14 years — our Irish Setters for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Irish Setter puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Finding an Irish Setter puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. While the breed is not known for being high maintenance, their coat does require some special care. Second, use a quality shampoo designed specifically for dogs when bathing your pet. Finally, give your dog occasional baths with warm water to help keep its skin healthy. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your Irish setter always looks its best. Meet Irish Setter Puppies for Sale. In any mixed dog breed, the puppies can take on any combination of characteristics from one or both of the parent breeds. On the Irish Setter side, you have a loving, playful, and energetic dog that is intelligent and active. The other dog breed in the cross can make a difference in what to expect in your Irish Setter Mix puppy. Irish Setters tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They tend to have a high prey drive, so they will require more socialization with smaller pets in the household. You can expect something similar from your Irish Setter Mix puppy. However, you still want to ask the breeder about the other parent in the cross as it can affect what traits your Irish Setter Mix puppy could inherit. Depending on the other breed in the cross, your Irish Setter Mix could be a highly adaptable dog breed. However, the Irish Setter is a high-energy dog and needs room to run, so they tend to be moderately adaptable. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time, but they do well in just about any climate. An Irish Setter Mix could inherit the potential for health conditions common to one or both of the parent breeds. On the Irish Setter side, potential health concerns to be aware of include allergies , cancer, epilepsy , hypothyroidism , deafness, and sensitivities to certain types of drugs. You can also ask to see any relevant health clearances or test results to help allay potential health concerns. The Irish Setter is an intelligent, energetic dog that tends to get bored easily. Although they pick up on things quickly and are eager to please, they can be a challenge for first-time dog owners. Depending on the other parent breed in the cross, an Irish Setter Mix could be moderately trainable like their Irish Setter parent or could be more highly trainable or more difficult to train. Because there may be variation in the trainability of an Irish Setter Mix, novice or first-time dog owners should be prepared to enroll in puppy training and obedience classes. Even if you have experience as a dog owner, puppy training classes can still be a good idea and can also provide some opportunities to socialize a puppy. Monthly nail trimming is usually enough to keep nails from getting too long. Checking weekly to make sure ears are dry, clean, and free of debris is usually sufficient to keep an eye on things. Because the Irish Setter is a high-energy dog breed, you will need to be prepared for the same in an Irish Setter Mix. The good news is that your Irish Setter Mix will be happy to be with you being active, so you can try a lot of different activities to figure out what you both like to do best. You can teach your dog how to play frisbee , try going swimming, go on hikes with them, or even train for dog sports. An Irish Setter usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. The size of an Irish Setter Mix can be affected by the other parent breed, so make sure you ask the breeder about it. Meeting the mother dog can also give you a good idea of what size to expect in your Irish Setter Mix puppy. An Irish Setter generally lives years, but the other parent breed could affect this range for your Irish Setter Mix. Talking to the breeder about the other parent breed can help you get an idea of what to expect. Featured Irish Setter Mix Article.

Their personalities are easy to love; they have a confident demeanor and are known for their almost clown-like antics when excited, making them an excellent family companion. This breed is quite family-oriented but may be distant with strangers at first. Their characteristic aloofness to outsiders helps make them great guard dogs. With consistent training and established rules and boundaries, this powerful pup can learn with the best of them. As a working breed, they were known for their wild pig and cattle catching abilities, making them indispensable on southern ranches in the US. Grooming Hurray for easy care! Make sure your vet gives your pup a professional cleaning every year, too. Be sure to put nail trimming every couple of weeks and ear cleaning monthly is usually enough on the grooming menu, too. And as for baths, plan on a bath about once a month or so. You may be able to just use your nose. If you detect an unpleasant odor eww! Training When it comes to training, an American Bulldog puppy needs a confident pup parent who uses positive reinforcement to teach various skills, such as how to walk nicely on a leash and come when called. Start training your American Bulldog puppy early to get them used to the ropes. Once you understand what works for them, training becomes easy. Remember: American Bulldogs are smart. These social interactions give your dog a chance to explore a variety of environments and social situations. Feed your puppy large-breed puppy kibble for their first 14 months to support slow but consistent growth. Skip food or supplements with calcium until your pooch is fully grown and eating an adult diet. The added calcium could disrupt healthy bone development. Treats are an essential part of training and a great way to show your pup you love them. However, too many treats can lead to a tubby pup, so check with your vet if you need help figuring out a proper treat-to-mealtime ratio. Exercise Even though they have a moderate energy level, an American Bulldog needs a lot of exercise. And exercise is important to keep your dog out of trouble. If they have unused energy, an American Bulldog will resort to destructive behaviors to release that energy, like chewing on your favorite pair of shoes. This athletic dog benefits greatly from structured walks and play to work the mind and their muscular build. As a puppy parent, strive to offer non-impact movement such as hiding balls in the yard or offering a puzzle toy, as these games lower the risk of joint and bone damage early on. Get out of the house twice a day or more if your young dog is up for it for playtime and walks that last between 20 and 30 minutes. Trainers often suggest skipping the dog park because structured play is more difficult in this setting. Instead, get creative with activities. Think: fetch, tug-of-war with a rope toy or a chewy option filled with something delicious. You may even try lower-impact dog sports like agility or nose work. Both are an excellent way to keep your pup mentally and physically engaged. Remember, a happy dog is a tired dog! Ideal Environment Both city and country homes will suit the American Bulldog as long as you can offer lots of exercise and playtime. Still, families with kids are a good match for this protective and intelligent breed. A structured day with regular walks and chances to play with a variety of toys is the best environment for the American Bulldog. Staving off boredom is paramount, and, of course, no animal likes to be home alone for a long time. When considering the American Bulldog as a pet, bear in mind that training is the key to their success, especially when adding this breed to a home with kids or other dogs. Pup parents need to be aware of some of these issues so they can help their dog live the healthiest life possible. Joint Dysplasia: This joint abnormality is seen in the hips and elbows, and a dog with dysplasia may run, jump and climb less than usual. Most often, the issue is a rupture or partial tear. Cherry Eye: Did you know dogs have a third eyelid? Bone Cancer: Often found in the long bones arms, legs , the cause for this condition is unknown, though vets feel it may have a genetic or environmental component. Deafness: Deafness, which can occur in one or both ears, may be acquired via drug exposure or infection. But deafness could also be hereditary and is linked to dogs with light coats and eyes. Acquired deafness is usually permanent but may improve over time without intervention. A special diet may be the treatment or medications, depending on the cause. Spinal Issues: Degenerative myelopathy DM is often genetic in nature and affects the spinal cord, leading to weakness and hind limb paralysis. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis: NCL is an inherited, progressive and rare neurological disorder that starts showing up between 1 and 2 years of age. The most obvious symptom is behavioral changes in the dog, and the pup will usually lose coordination and eyesight. It can be discovered through a DNA test, and at this time, there are no treatments. This proud pup carries an imported pedigree, having been brought over from across the pond as a descendant of the English Bulldog, which was originally bred for bull baiting. Thankfully, this horrific sport was outlawed in England in .Back in the 17th century, early settlers packed these working dogs with them for service on farms and ranches. The American Bulldog became a utility player, stepping in to accomplish many tasks, such as guarding livestock and catching cattle and feral pigs. In fact, were it not for their success as an excellent catch dog in the southern states, we might not know the breed today. John D. Johnson and Alan Scott were able to breed the last few native American Bulldogs in the southern US, resulting in two types the Scott type and the Johnson type that thrive today. These breeds differ in appearance; the Johnson American Bulldog sports a bigger, stronger build, a larger head and short muzzle, and the Scott American Bulldog has more lithe features, such as an athletic, small-boned frame and a longer muzzle. Are you looking to add an American Bulldog as a family member? Check out the AKC puppy finder to find a reputable breeder. You can also seek out local American Bulldog rescues to find a worthy, loving dog to call your own, or keep an eye out for the breed at your local shelter. FAQs Do American bulldogs shed? Yes, American Bulldogs shed, albeit lightly and seasonally. Are American Bulldogs Pitbulls? Are American Bulldogs aggressive? American Bulldogs may be aggressive toward other dogs, particularly unfamiliar ones of the same sex, in part because of their protective and somewhat dominant nature. But with consistent training and early socialization, this breed is considered a loving family dog that does well with kids and other pets. How long do American Bulldogs live? American Bulldogs can have a generous life span, often living between 10 and 12 years. Providing your dog with the proper diet and exercise can help your pup live a full life. What are the most popular American Bulldog names? Get more dog names here. What are the most common American Bulldog mixes? Families of all kinds admire this agile, athletic breed and count themselves lucky to own such a loving, loyal pet. Female Names. Red skin Recurring skin infections If you notice any of these signs in your American Bulldog, contact your veterinarian for guidance. Feeding your American Bulldog a diet formulated for large-breed dogs as both a puppy and an adult is recommended for optimal growth and wellness. As American Bulldog puppies mature, feeding them two meals a day is recommended. Nutritional Tips for American Bulldogs Avoid feeding your dog table scraps, which may be dangerous to their health. Dogs fed a complete and balanced commercial food diet should not need any nutritional supplements unless recommended by a veterinarian. Because they are so loyal to their family, they can be useful watch dogs that bark to alert you when anything is amiss. A well-trained and socialized American Bulldog will typically get along with other pets and with young children. American Bulldog Behavior American Bulldogs can be watchful over their family and, as with every other dog breed, early training and socialization is vital. They are large, active dogs who need to be kept busy physically and mentally. Playtime and long walks are important for American Bulldogs—though they also enjoy a good afternoon nap. American Bulldog Training American Bulldogs are a large, active breed that require dedicated training. They can pick up training cues quickly, especially when training sessions are done consistently and with positive reinforcement. Fun Activities for American Bulldogs Agility. Shadow the American Bulldog as a puppy at 10 weeks old Shadow the American Bulldog as a puppy at 6 months old sitting on the couch Shadow the American Bulldog at 10 months old looking over the back of the couch Jynx the XL American Bulldog at 5 years old—"My big boy. He's a gentle giant. Jynx shown here at 5 years old and pounds 56 kg " Tut the American Bulldog puppy at 8 weeks old—"This is Tut. I got him at 5 weeks of age. I never wanted a male dog, but now I won't trade him for anything! At 10 weeks old he weighed 22 pounds. She wasn't sure what to think about the noise the camera was making! She's a very smart girl, but awfully stubborn! We have started obedience training with her and although commands take a while to imprint, once she has it, she's golden! She now sits in her "spot" in the kitchen and waits quietly and patiently while we fill her food and water bowl. When her bowls are full she continues to wait patiently, all eyes on us, until we tell her "Good girl, you can have it! He has been a tremendous addition to our family!! We are a family of five and never before had a dog. He loves to fetch, play tug and when it is time to mellow out, he does!!! He simply picks a spot in the room and relaxes while we go about with our business!! We couldn't be happier with Cooper and can't wait for everything that is to come!!! Maggie is a three-year-old American Bulldog. Her mom is a Johnson type and her dad is a Scott type. We did not know anything about this breed before we got her but we quickly realized that we had to learn fast. She is very strong-willed and also just plain strong! This breed needs hours of exercise a day and a strong pack leader. By fulfilling her needs, we have been able to see her develop to her full potential. American Bulldogs are not for everyone so please choose this breed only after very careful thought. She is loving, fearless and protective. She is also exceptionally smart. She knows her toys by name and could play hide-and-seek for hours. When we tell her to go to her bed she does and does not get up until given permission so we can eat dinner without her begging for bits. She truly listens to her people and is eager to please. She does not like looking at herself in the mirror and she growls at animals on TV and in movies. We will never own a different breed. She has our hearts forever. We've had CeeCee about 5 months now and she has become a very much loved member of our family. Talk about personality! If it weren't for his instruction, CeeCee would be unmanageable. We didn't train her to do or not do anything; she just did her thing and usually agreed with us and followed us around. I started walking for my sanity's sake and she enjoyed tagging along.She was a little over a year old when she was given to us by friends who had to move across the country and couldn't take her along. So before she came to our house, we started reading everything we could find on American Bulldogs. I saw the info on the dogbreedinfo site about Cesar and devoured his book. We found the show and soon after I started ordering the DVD sets so I could watch the episodes over and over. As soon as she got here, we took her for a long walk together. She thinks any package left by the delivery man is her new chew toy, and still gets too excited occasionally, but she is learning to sit still and control her impulses. Our neighbors have wolf-dogs that occasionally get loose and it doesn't scare CeeCee a bit wish I could say the same for me. She holds her own and is gradually winning them over. CeeCee came to us during a time when I was grieving a very traumatic event. She was the catalyst for letting go of things I couldn't fix or change. At first, we were tempted to rename her Bessie. She had just had a litter of pups and the resemblance to your average Holstein was remarkable. Now, all trimmed up and dressed in her fancy black lipstick, she makes us all smile. He is my first dog and has been the best dog anyone could ever have asked for. After originally being chosen by another owner, Casey spent the first 2 months on his own crated nearly 23 hours a day, by himself without a toy in his crate. Since that time he has been the most loveable, affectionate dog anyone could ask for. He loves to play with other dogs, especially his new 3-month-old sister. He even tries to play with our 3-year-old cat. A true Johnson bully, he loves to be out doors running and training. His favorite things to do are play with his football, play tug, dig holes and eat freshly fallen snow. My husband has watched the Dog Whisperer gaining a lot of tips on how to get Carson to "calm" down. She loves people and thinks that everyone must love her. After using some of the techniques on the show, she has really changed into a calmer dog. Rose was a rather destructive puppy, but only when left alone. I had to crate her during periods when my wife and I would both be away to keep her from destroying our home or ingesting foreign objects. I thought we had taken on more than we could handle, but she learned commands and tricks faster than any dog I'd ever had. We began educate ourselves, and the first step was to walk her 2 miles a day, play fetch and Frisbee for marathon sessions, built her a "spring pole" of sorts, and even take long bike rides with her on leash. Her excitability at newcomers decreased right away, and her furniture-chewing habit ceased. Currently at almost 4 years old, she's the best dog I could ever hope for. I shudder to think that we considered giving her up for adoption, and now people ask us how we have such a well-trained dog! And Rose required being handled a bit more sternly than the Labs, Rottie, and mostly mixed breeds I'd owned previously. Only one harsh correction was usually needed; two thousand light vocal reprimands meant nothing. Today if we are playing fetch and the ball goes over the fence, she looks at me almost trembling and I can either tell her "get it" allowing her to hop the fence, retrieve, and hop back or give her a stay command. At 18 months of age, I never believed this dog could restrain herself from any impulse. I only have one dog of this breed to draw on, but I'd venture to say that the American Bulldog needs stimulation, love, play, but most of all exercise and an occasional heavy hand early on, so we could establish her place in our pack. She has made my wife and me far more physically active than we had been, and even that is life enhancing. They are incredibly powerful; playing tug with her has to be experienced to be believed. At only 78 pounds, Rose can jump, pull and bite like nothing else. She once jumped up and bit a tree limb and just hung and shook after I took her rope toy down from the limb. Their enthusiasm is a big part of their charm, but I would not recommend this breed to a busy person who can't devote the time. She is great around kids, cats, other dogs, and even just barks or whimpers when she encounters a snake or turtle while we're camping. But Rose was on the fast track to being given up, when we realized she simply needed more exercise and for us to be more firm with her. He requires a lot of exercise or he can get himself into trouble he is very strong. The most important thing in raising him was being firm and consistent on everything. He is very smart and learns things quickly, even bad habits. He is somewhat protective of females and children around strangers, but if introduced loves everyone. Benelli is excellent with our 2 young children, ages 2 and 3. She's so calm and gentle that my 3-year-old can hold the leash while we go for walks. She absolutely loves our cats and she gets along very well with our other dog. This is our first American Bulldog and we couldn't ask for a better dog!! Her name is Wanda. I have learned so much about her from your website; it is very interesting and useful. I taught her how to sit and how to walk beside me , not in front of me by your instructions. We live in El Salvador in Central America. He's my first AB and I am impressed with the breed. His father is a Johnson type doggy and his mom a Scott type. Porky the American Bulldog puppy at 10 weeks, weighing 21 pounds Belle the American Bulldog at 3 years old—"We rescued Bella a year ago from a pen in a neighbor's garden. She weighed 34 pounds 17 kilos and had ten pups inside her. She was a very scared and seemed to be an aggressive dog. I broke through the fence when no one had been to her cage for 4 days. After a lot of shouting and abuse from my neighbor she eventually let me have her. She had 10 pups in my summerhouse and slowly each day she came to trust me a little more. She still growled and was scared of everyone else. We brought her into our house and had a cage for her. Cesar Millan was and is my hero. He gave me the belief in myself that I could cope with such a big scared dog. We have now had her for a year. She is like a different dog. She sleeps with the cats that she once so wanted to attack. She no longer needs the hated cage and loves visitors that used to scare her. I have never had a dog before and to be honest never really wanted one, but my Bella has filled a gap I never knew was there. So for anyone out there thinking about owning a rescued American Bulldog all you need is lots of patience, a strong will and a touch of Cesar Millan. Articles White American Bulldogs look powerful and intimidating, but they can be extremely loving and affectionate to their owners. These hyperactive fur babies are sure to make your life much more joyous and energetic. So what is a White American Bulldog? A White American Bulldog is a large, white bulldog breed belonging to the Mastiff group and a descendant of the English Bulldog. It is initially bred to be a working farm dog rather than be housepets. However, in recent times, this breed has evolved into loving family dogs. As an adult, they grow between 20 and 28 inches tall and weigh between 60 and lbs, although the exact size varies. In terms of physical appearance, White American Bulldogs often have a muscular frame, making them look fierce and powerful. The head is large and square, while the tail is short. The tail is thick at the base and gets thinner towards the tip. These doggies have round eyes, usually brown but sometimes hazel or blue. They are either all white or have patches in black, brown, or tan colors. Regarding their fur length, it does not grow longer than an inch and is quite stiff. The short fur makes bathing and grooming easier. Solid white and white combinations are common, while lilac combinations, doggies with diluted black or gray coats, are rare. The most common colors are combinations of white base coats with black, brown, or tan patches. However, they may live up to a maximum of 16 years. However, these doggies are prone to overheating, so they cannot be exposed to sunlight for long periods. Your fur baby should not be allowed to play outside too long on a hot summer day. They should have easy access to water and shade as well. Common Health Issues Though White American Bulldogs are considered to be one of the healthier breeds, they are prone to some common health issues. Regular vet visits , along with proper exercise, can prevent a lot of these illnesses. It can get red and swollen, giving the appearance of a cherry. Your vet will give adequate treatment if this happens. Dysplasia When hip or elbow sockets wear out as your furry friend gets older, they affect movement and lead to a condition called dysplasia. If your doggy puts on more weight, it could exert additional pressure on joints. American Bulldogs are extremely prone to bone cancer compared to other breeds. It is extremely important to check for swelling symptoms on a regular basis and if you notice any abnormalities, take your doggy to the vet. Not every White American Bulldog is deaf. There is a chance, however, that they will be deaf since breeds that are predominantly white, or those that have large white patches, can suffer from deafness right from birth. Caring for White American Bulldogs is relatively easy once you establish a routine. Creating a routine and sticking to it will help both you and your furry friend. It puts your mind at ease and keeps your dog happy. Set aside time every day to play with your doggy. It is a great opportunity to help them move around and also bond with them. Regular vet visits are important to keep common health issues at bay. Exercise Routine Along with food and playtime, a proper exercise routine is also important for your dog. Since American Bulldogs are large and energetic compared to other breeds, it is essential that they get at least two hours of exercise on a daily basis. Establish a routine and stick to it so they remain happy. Puppies up to 6 months old will need three cups of food fed as four parts throughout the day. After six months, they will need 2 cups of food fed as two meals a day. You might have noticed that puppies need more food than adults with this breed. Multivitamin Supplementation Your furry friend needs a high-quality diet with lots of protein and some carbs to keep them going. They also need omega-3 fatty acids, along with vitamin A, to boost their immunity and keep their fur shiny. Supplementing food with multivitamins is also essential to make sure your doggy receives all the required nutrients in the right amounts. Take a look here! Picking The Right Brand There are hundreds of dog food brands available in the market claiming to contain the best ingredients to help your doggy. Many food items and additives are not good for them, so look at the contents before feeding your dog. It is best to understand foods that are harmful to your White American Bulldog well in advance so you can make the right choices. Pet Plate is a meal subscription plan that helps you customize perfect meals for your furry friend in just a few easy steps. Simply add details about your doggy, like their habits and characteristics, and you will get a crafted meal plan that suits them. The food is also delivered to your home at your preferred time. Dental Water Additives For Healthier Teeth Establishing a good dental routine is just as important as exercise and food. Dental water additives not only prevent bad breath but also help protect teeth and gums, keeping bacteria buildup at bay. Are White American Bulldogs Aggressive? Temperaments Of White American Bulldogs White American Bulldogs were initially bred for work, and some of their titles included personal protection dogs and hunting dogs. They still carry these traits and become aggressive when provoked. Regarding temperament, some common characteristics include: Alert And Protective White American Bulldogs make perfect watchdogs because they are hyperalert. They bark at the first sign of intruders. They are also protective of their owners and would do anything to defend their families. Image from Instagram: chiptheamericanbulldog Friendly White American Bulldogs are extremely sociable and enjoy the company of humans. They are happy doggies who enjoy playing around and making their humans laugh. Intelligent You would be happy to train White American Bulldogs because they are fast learners. You can easily train them how to behave around family, make them do tricks, or teach them to be good hunters. Do White American Bulldogs Bite? White American Bulldogs, just like any other kind of dog, bite if they are provoked or if their human is in danger. Proper socializing and training from when they are pups will go a long way in helping them develop good habits. White American Bulldogs are renowned for their fondness for children, mostly because they act like children themselves. They do have the habit of jumping on people when they get excited, so keep an eye on them when they associate with children. If they show signs of aggression, keep them leashed. White American Bulldogs are goofy, happy dogs who love spending time with their human friends. This makes them great family dogs. They are not aggressive toward people they know and trust. They are also exceptionally good watchdogs, so you can count on them for protection any time of the day. White American Bulldogs are happiest when they are with their humans. They prefer to always be with them. They do want attention from their owners, so it is not advisable to leave them alone for long periods of time. Do White American Bulldogs Shed? Grooming Tips For White American Bulldogs White American Bulldogs shed moderately, but this does not prove to be troublesome because their fur is not too long. Regular brushing helps remove excess fur and keeps their white coat shiny. Here are some ways to keep your doggy nice and groomed: Brushing Your White American Bulldog Your fur baby needs to be brushed a few times a week with a brush with firm bristles. This especially needs to be done when there is excess shedding, typically during the spring and autumn seasons. White American Bulldogs are not hypoallergenic dogs for that very reason: they shed moderately in varying patterns throughout the year. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. American Bulldogs only need baths when they get dirty. But it is best not to let them go for long periods without a shower, because they will develop bad odors and allergies. Do not use shampoos made for humans to bathe your furry friend because certain chemicals and pH levels in human shampoos are technically not suitable for dogs. Pet shampoos are made especially to keep fur babies clean and fresh. Professionally formulated mild yet effective soap-free formula is ideal for.Many pets right after a bath they try to find a.If you are willing to pay this much, you will get a puppy that is thoroughly checked for health and behavior issues. White American Bulldogs are brachycephalic, which means they have a relatively short snout. This is one of the reasons why they drool a lot. These doggies also find it a little difficult to eat and drink. Can White American Bulldogs Swim? White American Bulldogs can swim but not well enough to swim continuously for a prolonged period or against a current. Their short snouts require that they raise their heads further above the water, hindering their ability to float. American Bulldog Dogs Pete Decker. Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. She has very rare hazel eyes and an amazing demeanor. Dixie lives with her Guardian Family in Key West! She comes from amazing show dog lines and will be continuing those genetics to her puppies! Pearl will be getting her CGC very soon! Pearl lives with her Guardian Family in Jacksonville! She has the same parents as one of our foundation girls, Kaya! Tahoe is a dark rich red color and throws that color into her puppies as well! Sansa and Tahoe come from the same litter with the same parents as Kaya! She is the sweetest girl, always wanting to be by your side getting love. She loves fetch and lives with her Guardian Family here in Cocoa Beach! She comes from amazing lines and we can't wait to see how she grows! She is a sweetheart and lives with her Guardian Family here in Jacksonville! She is a gorgeous girl with a big blocky head. She is such a great representation of the breed. She is like a nanny to her Guardian Kids and doesn't have a mean bone in her body. She lets the kids climb all over her. She is also a through and through water dog! She is truly bonded to her family and is such a loyal dog. She loves a good adventure but can also curl up on the couch all day. She has an amazing temperament and loves to explore with her family! She lives with her Guardian Family in Tampa! She is such a cuddle bug and is obsessed with going to the dog park with her friends! She lives with her Guardian Family in Jacksonville! One of the most gorgeous dogs I have ever made! She is the sweetest girl and the best friend of her two human sisters! Maggie lives with her Guardian Family in Jacksonville! Whether your work is based on text, images, videos or a different medium, providing a brief summary will help visitors understand the context and background. Then use the media section to showcase your project! She goes to work with kids everyday with her Guardian Mom and is truly an amazing girl! We can't wait to see what she produces this year! She is a female with a blocky head which is my goal to produce here at Salty Goldens! She is a sweetheart and loves to swim! Follow our Weaver Dairy Goldens Facebook group for updates on this and upcoming litters. These dogs are eager to please, and can adapt to many different environments. Goldens have a very pleasant personality. The Golden Retriever's coat ranges in color from light to dark gold, with varying shades of red. Their easy-going temperament makes them one of the most popular breeds in America. Our breeder obtained Goldens from these lines and has been breeding the lines since .Pups from this bloodline have been known to live up to 18 years we sold a pup in April to a family whose male pup from these lines lived to be 18, and several others to families whose pups from these lines lived to be years. We moved to Bessemer City, North Carolina in .As a profession, Ken is a truck driver and I am a Legal Nurse working from home. We have owned dogs and cats for as long as we have been together. She looked like a black Golden Retriever, and had the best personality and temperament ever. He is our pride and joy. School and his fiancee', Hannah, keep him very busy. They have the perfect little family. Mags and Baley are even more spoiled with the kids than when they lived with us, which I never guessed would be possible. After researching both breeds, we chose the Golden because they are a little less energetic, but still have a great personality and are eager to please. Our first Golden, Zoe, was on the higher end of the energy spectrum for a Golden. We didn't realize how laid back the breed could be until we got our next Goldens, Baley and Maggie Mae litter mates. Then Baxter, who came from the same breeder but a different bloodline, showed us just how chill these wonderful dogs can be. The fact that this is the best breed ever has been confirmed with each Golden we have had the pleasure of owning over the years. We will likely never own another breed. Hobbies: Our Goldens are our main hobby and our passion. We are constantly learning better ways to take care of them. We love have puppies once or twice a year.We also enjoy spending time together as a couple and with friends, riding our Harley Davidson motorcycle in the mountains. It is a great stress reliever. Our Location. What is a Red Golden Retriever? While Red Golden Retrievers can grow as big as a normal golden retriever, they are often smaller than most normal golden retrievers. Red Golden Retrievers are very similar to Golden Retrievers in many ways. The main difference besides their coat color is their energy levels. Red Retrievers were bred to aid in hunting birds and are known to be more athletic than standard Goldens. They need to be exercised more often to get all of their energy out. We stand by our pups, which is why we work alongside licensed veterinarians to ensure that our puppies are healthy and always up to date on their deworming and vaccination protocols. We also offer a 2-year genetic health guarantee on all of our puppies. That way, you can rest easy knowing your puppy is healthy and free from genetic defects and congenital diseases. Our mission is dedicated to connecting healthy, beautiful puppies with their forever families. Because their temperament is friendly, energetic, and patient. These pups are known for being loyal, intelligent, and devoted. Due to their higher energy levels they were bred to hunt after all , they do best with active families where they can get a lot of attention and are great with children. Luckily Red Retrievers and Goldens alike are known for their soft mouths since they were bred to hunt birds. The original Goldens came to be as a result of cross-breeding between various different breeds including: Water Spaniels, Yellow Retrievers, Irish Settlers, and Bloodhounds over several generations. In other words, all Golden Retriever subtypes including the English Cream Golden Retriever subtype , are members of the same family, or breed. Oftentimes, cheaper golden retriever puppies can ultimately cost you a LOT more money in the long run because they are more likely to have health issues. Are Red Goldens more expensive? Because of their elegant red coats and rarity, Red Goldens can be more expensive than certain other subtypes of Golden Retriever. Both are very similar in temperament, friendliness, socialness, health, and looks. They differ most in coat color, size, and energy. They are typically the smallest puppies of the litter and are more athletic meaning more energy to burn! How big is a full-grown Red Golden Retriever? The weight range for these sweet pups can be from pounds for full-grown males, and pounds for full-grown females. Additionally, these babies tend to stand at about inches tall, with males being on the taller end of the spectrum. Do Red Goldens shed? Yes, all types and variations of Golden Retrievers shed, and this is entirely normal for the breed. However, it is worth noting that because the Red Goldens often have a coat that is slightly shorter than typical Goldens, some owners claim they shed less overall. Problem solved! Are Red Golden Retrievers aggressive? The good news is— no, Red Golden Retrievers are not aggressive dogs by nature even with their higher energy levels. They still have the same sweet, calm, and lovable disposition which makes them a fantastic addition to any family to give plenty of attention to everyone including yours. Are Red Goldens more calm? Usually not, when compared to other subtypes of Golden Retrievers. While Red Golden Retrievers are much alike to Golden Retrievers with their high patience levels, they are known to have more energy. Are Red Golden Retrievers Rare? The gene manifests relatively rarely compared to other colors. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Contact Us Welcome to the Katian Kennel! This site was developed to share our love of Goldens. I hope you enjoy your visit, and come back often. For those of you who don't know: "Katian" pronounced "Kay-shun" is a play on Katie and Cajun my late husband's background - he used to say I'm leader of the Katian Nation - Yes, I know.We purchased almost 30 acres and are transforming our new golden retriever paradise. More about us.I recently lost my husband and am very thankful to have so many goldens who love me and occupy my time. When I do work on non-dog tasks, I work mostly from home so I can maximize my time with my canine crew. As the old adage goes, a tired dog is a happy dog.We purchased 30 beautiful acres…. Our new place is just outside of Lexington, Texas less than an hour east of Austin and just a few miles from Giddings, TX. I am truly blessed in that many of my puppies come back to me for training.I love seeing them grow and learn and am so grateful that my extended puppy family trusts us with the next stage in their puppy's life! Our dogs socialize with each other, mind their manners in the house most of the time , have free play in the fenced backyard and supervised free play throughout the rest of our property. They spend their time checking on the ducks in our aviary, the goats in our pasture and trailing all of the deer, rabbits, squirrels and other wildlife who call our property home. The golden crew confidently ride in our vehicles cars, trucks, 4wheelers, boats, kayaks, and our RV. In addition to being well-adjusted family companions, our dogs are duck hunters and competitive athletes. They compete in hunt tests, field trials, obedience and agility - needless to say, we are an active and busy family! My daughter, Katelyn, with one of the pups wooded front yard Angleton We are located on about 30 acres - golden paradise with rolling hills, woods and a beautiful pond! We do not raise our dogs in kennel runs. We have cameras set up so that we can keep a constant eye on our crew when we are tied up with non-dog duties. Security and safety of our furry family is of the utmost importance to us. Katelyn is my life-saver and helps out with the dogs whenever I need her. Between judging assignments and handling my own dogs at competitions most weekends, it is good to know that I have reliable help at home to take care of everything so I can enjoy the dogs off-property. In our pre-Harvey Angleton home, we had a perfect set-up. We are working on developing the perfect set-up at our new place in Lexington.The puppy nursery is almost done and in my home so that I can keep a constant eye on the pups.In Angleton, we had a small swim-by pond as well as a wooded green-tree reservoir for plenty of water training opportunities.Django, Grip, Nacho and Willow are our "launchers" and Gaga, Pebbles and Cica like to swiftly glide into the water - but all of them can't get enough of that wet stuff! Grip, Willow and Django will do laps together for hours if I let them! Whoever says golden retrievers don't like water, needs to stop by and visit! Availability of puppies and conditions of sale are at the sole discretion of the individual breeder. You are not obligated to purchase a puppy from the breeders whose names you obtain from GRCA puppy referral.

All carry the fluffy gene! All AKC Registered! All are up to date on shots. Contact me today! Puppies are now ready to go home! She is amazing with kids and very energetic. My family cant have a pet any longer due to some allergies my wife developed. I would like for her to go to an amazing family that will love her. She is not fixed. I do have papers for her. She is great with other dogs as well. View Detail Male French bulldogs for sale 3 males available starting at Get a hold of me for more pictures and information View Detail AKC reg French Bulldogs now these puppies are well trained ,Akc reg ,vet checked, dewormed ,dna tested and proven heathy. Vet checked and up to date. We have worked really hard to get these guys off on the right start. We are a small hobby breeder in Dayton OH. Our puppies are raised in home with other dogs cats and kids. View Detail Gorgeous x french Bulldogs now these puppies are well trained ,come with papers ,get along with ither pets ,lovely around kids and good temperament. View Detail Akc reg French bulldogs ready now these puppies are well trained ,good with kids,get along with other pets ,adorable ,come with all papers. AKC registered from healthy lines. Raised in home with kids, cats, other dogs. We work VERY hard on socialization and potty training so our puppies leave us ahead of the game! Spruce Creek Kennels has been producing outstanding boxers for over 10 years and we are excited to announcement our first French Bulldog litter. Please follow us on Facebook for updates and swift communication! View Detail tapping French Bulldogs rehoming We have just a male and a female left ,very friendly,come with papers and accessories,have had all their checks and dewormed. Please contact contact petzlover. Although spaying or neutering is not compulsory, it is highly advisable to spay your French Bulldog. This will help to decrease its chances of getting certain kinds of cancer. It also prevents the risk of unwanted breeding between your French Bulldog and any nearby dog. Are French Bulldogs Aggressive? French Bulldogs have the potential to be aggressive. However, they are not usually aggressive unless they are trained that way. It is important to note that they may show aggression towards other dogs or smaller animals. Owners should watch out for signs of aggression and nip them in the bud. What is the life expectancy of a French Bulldog? With a proper diet and nutrition, French Bulldogs can live for up to eleven or thirteen years. Can French Bulldogs eat raw meat? French Bulldogs can eat raw meat such as chicken, liver or kidney. They could also eat canned, dry food. What is the difference between a French Bulldog and an English Bulldog? French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are quite similar but different at the same time. English bulldogs are bigger while the French Bulldog is considerably smaller. French Bulldogs also have upright pointy ears whereas the English breed has folded ears. Do I have to worry about fleas with French Bulldogs? Just like all other breeds, French Bulldogs can get fleas. If they do get fleas, this can be solved by getting flea medicine or using a flea comb to get rid of the fleas. How do you deal with separation anxiety in French Bulldogs? French Bulldogs are very prone to separation anxiety. To curb this, owners can crate train their dogs or provide them with chew toys. What is the best way to train your French Bulldog? Crate training is one of the best ways to train your French Bulldog. It helps to create good and positive behavior in your Frenchie and could be a fun place for it to rest. Are French Bulldogs children-friendly? French Bulldogs are not the best option for kids. However, if they grow up surrounded by children, the risk could be lessened. They should not be left unsupervised around kids. How big are French Bulldogs? The French Bulldog is about 11 or 12 inches tall and weighs an average of pounds. Are you interested in purchasing a French Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

The only thing he knew was his name. We were new parents and all we knew was that we liked to hunt, and Rusty was a heckuva duck dog. Long story short, we purchased a mate for him from Torch Flinn in , Tigathoes Morning Mist, as we couldn't bear the thought of life without a big red golden. Over the years thoughtful outcrosses with exceptional Canadian field studs enabled genetically safe line breedings with emphasis on the strengths and talents of the dogs we knew intimately. Not just names on a pedigree, we know health and accomplishment statistics on siblings, offspring, and offspring of siblings. Adirondac Goldens excel in so many venues because the traits a Master Hunter needs are the same that every competitor must have - - - work ethic, courage, perseverance, athleticism, and problem solving skills. The puppies just need to go home with the right owner, and we like to think that "pick of the litter" goes home with every buyer. A dog craves purpose. Dogs want to expend energy, solve problems, engage with others and embark on interesting adventures. Dogs are eager to comfort or protect; to herd or to hunt. A dog's purpose is it's passion. Preference is given to working homes. We have answers. Give me some fun facts about Golden Retriever puppies for sale near Plattsburgh! Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular and beloved breeds of dog. They often have an outgoing and friendly personality, plus they have a strong work ethic and loyalty. They were historically used to retrieve game bird and upland game for their owners. In addition to being a friendly and loyal pet, Golden Retrievers are also highly intelligent and active dogs. They are one of the most popular breeds of assistance dogs, which demonstrate the intelligence and loyalty of this breed. Are Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Plattsburgh hypoallergenic? Golden Retrievers are not considered hypoallergenic, meaning that they are not a breed of dog that is specifically designed for people with allergies. While their fur will cause fewer allergies than other breeds of dogs, they still shed and produce dander which can cause an allergic reaction. Many people with mild allergies find that their allergic reactions to Golden Retrievers are moderate or minimal, allowing them to enjoy the company of a Golden Retriever even with allergies. However, individuals with severe allergies should always consult their allergist before considering getting a Golden Retriever. How do I know what not to feed Plattsburgh Golden Retriever puppies for sale? Golden Retrievers are a very popular breed with a wide range of dietary needs. To ensure your Golden Retriever's health and wellbeing, you should ensure that he or she is not fed any foods that are potentially hazardous. You can find this information in any reputable breeder's guide and it is also advisable to speak to your vet for professional guidance. Foods to avoid feeding your Golden Retriever include garlic, onions and chives, as well as anything containing alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, macadamia nuts, raisins, grapes or salt. Am I ready to adopt Golden Retriever puppies in Plattsburgh? To best prepare your home for your new Golden Retriever, you should first ensure that your home is free from any items small enough for your dog to chew on, such as toys, small shoes, and other loose items. Next, puppy-proof your home by securing any potential hazards, such as electric cords and poisonous plants. You should also evaluate which areas of your house your dog will be allowed to enter, and block off any areas they are not supposed to access. Are Golden Retrievers for sale in Plattsburgh considered big dogs? Golden Retrievers are considered to be medium-sized dogs according to most established breed standards, but they can be considered "big" when compared to other small breeds. Males typically range from lbs and inches at the shoulder when fully grown, while females range from lbs and inches. Despite this larger size, Golden Retrievers are known to be gentle giants and often make excellent family pets. They require significant physical and mental exercise and are generally active and playful. How much exercise do Golden Retriever puppies near Plattsburgh need? Golden Retrievers need a considerable amount of exercise in order to stay physically and mentally healthy. Regular physical activities, such as running, walking, and swimming, are essential for Golden Retrievers, as well as sufficient opportunities for mental stimulation. How much exercise your Golden Retriever needs will depend on its age, size, health, and activity level. Puppies should be taken for several shorter walks per day, as well as playtime. Do Golden Retrievers in Plattsburgh make good family dogs? Golden Retrievers are highly regarded around the world for their friendliness, intelligence, and loyal nature. Growing up surrounded by their family, their focus and love will be unconditional. Golden Retrievers are incredibly affectionate and deeply devoted companions. They bond quickly with family member, making them an ideal pet for all ages. Plus, they're great with kids and other animals due to their kind and gentle disposition. In addition, these furry friends usually love outdoor activities like long walks, hikes, and even swims, and they make great jogging partners. Are Plattsburgh Golden Retrievers for sale considered smart dogs? Yes, Golden Retrievers are considered highly intelligent dogs. They rank fourth in Stanley Coren's The Intelligence of Dogs, which is a commonly used indicator of canine intelligence. Their eagerness to please and trainability make them one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Furthermore, they are curious, have excellent memories, and have a great capacity to understand commands. Golden Retrievers are known for their loyalty, eagerness to learn, and eagerness to serve, which makes them incredibly smart dogs.

Source: Pexels With a loveable pudgy body and a cute cartoonish face, the French Bulldog has been popular since it was first introduced. A clear celebrity favourite, the affectionately named 'Frenchie' is fast on its way to becoming the most popular breed in the UK. These pups thrive on human contact, love to play with anyone and everything, and are incredibly easy-going — it's no wonder they've stolen so many hearts! To keep your dog happy and healthy, it's important that you feed them a well-balanced diet suited to their needs. As French Bulldogs are unfortunately prone to numerous health complications later in life, this is a priority for this breed. To make things a little easier, we've gathered everything you need to know into one simple, user-friendly guide. Bred to be toy-sized bulldogs that could be carried easily, they accompanied their owners to France during the Industrial Revolution. These adorable pups caused quite the stir in Paris due to their unusual appearance, and quickly became a national favourite. Source: Wikimedia Commons By the late nineteenth century, many wealthy French households had acquired a French Bulldog. Visitors from the US were also fascinated by the breed and many took home puppies of their own. After an acclaimed dog show in , in which the French Bulldog was presented as the most stylish pooch of the season, the breed went on to dominate the high society market and became a staple show-dog by .French Bulldog Size and Life Expectancy These personable pups grow to around 30cm tall and should weigh 8 to 13kg. They are small or medium-sized dogs with short, smooth coats and a solid, muscular body that looks particularly compact. French Bulldogs have an average lifespan on 10 to 12 years, though they can live longer — this is dependent on the debilitating health issues that the breed is likely to develop later in life. Source: Unsplash Celebrity French Bulldogs This breed's playful personality and adorable appearance has made it particularly popular with celebrities, making it a firm favourite with fans. Experts have forecasted that this rising star may be next year's favourite dog. Instagram and other social media sites have been flooded over the last couple of years with photographs featuring loveable French Bulldogs. A French Bulldog Diet Source: Wikimedia Commons Preferred Food for French Bulldogs Feeding your French Bulldog doesn't differ too much from feeding your other dogs — your Frenchie needs a high quality, hypoallergenic diet that's filled with lots of vitamins and nutrients. We recommend trying a grain-free diet first as wheat and grain may cause excessive flatulence in this breed. Make sure to include lots of complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes rather than single grains, as these can be a problem for already health-problematical pups. Most importantly, be sure to feed your dog a well-balanced diet from a brand that you can trust. Preferred Food for French Bulldog Seniors While you can continue to feed French Bulldogs the same diet for most of their lives, there are some small changes that you can make for your senior dog. In later life stages, French Bulldogs need high quality food that is easy to digest; wet food will keep them well-fed and hydrated. We recommend that you purchase specialised senior dog food , as this will contain fewer calories to match their low energy, and be richer in essential vitamins and nutrients. This will keep their teeth and coat in excellent shape. Preferred Food for French Bulldog Puppies Source: Wikimedia Commons It can be difficult to know what to feed your new French Bulldog puppy, as the food you choose will have long-term ramifications over your Frenchie's health. Puppy food is specially curated to support your playful and energetic pup, with bonus nutrients to aid in teeth and bone growth. As puppies tend to grow in small bursts, it's important that you feed them frequently. Puppies need three high-quality, well-balanced, measured meals a day. These should be made from natural ingredients, and low in processed foods and sugars. Help your puppy adjust to its new home by following the same routine as its previous owner and purchasing the same brand of dog food, slowly introducing your preferred pick. If you feed your puppy high-quality food at the same time every day, your pooch will grow up happy and healthy. French Bulldog Feeding Guide Depending on their size and level of activity, how much your French Bulldog should be fed changes. This chart will help you to figure out how much you should be feeding your dog to maintain a healthy weight. To avoid this, if your pup walks on the lead or is likely only to be active for up to one hour per day, start at the lowest activity level and adjust from there. French Bulldog Feeding Guide Source: Pexels With a loveable pudgy body and a cute cartoonish face, the French Bulldog has been popular since it was first introduced. Celebrity French Bulldogs This breed's playful personality and adorable appearance has made it particularly popular with celebrities, making it a firm favourite with fans. A French Bulldog Diet Preferred Food for French Bulldogs Feeding your French Bulldog doesn't differ too much from feeding your other dogs — your Frenchie needs a high quality, hypoallergenic diet that's filled with lots of vitamins and nutrients. Here is the link to the US metrics feeding chart for your four-legged friends across the pond: US French Bulldog Feeding Guide Most dog food packaging will have a specialised feeding chart similar to this one — always read the branded guide on the back for optimal calculations. If your dog is overweight or underweight, use their ideal weight as your guide. We recommend that you break this advised portion into two feedings, every morning and evening. Try not to feed your Frenchie too late in the day though, in order to make room for a walk before bedtime. Make sure to feed your puppy three to four smaller meals a day so as not to overwhelm their tiny tummies. Their last meal should be around two or three hours before their last walk, to give them enough time to digest their food and avoid any house-training mishaps. Some dogs develop faster than others and may need to move onto adult dog food more quickly, but this is something you should discuss with your vet when the time comes. French Bulldog Allergies Just like their owners, dogs are equally susceptible to allergies. These can unfortunately be particularly difficult to diagnose, being both dietary and environmental. Symptoms include itching or watery eyes, sore patches on the skin, and incidents of diarrhoea or vomiting. To prevent allergic reactions, make sure to use only pet-friendly cleaning products in your home and be prepared to alter your dog's diet. Hypoallergenic dog foods are perfect for your French Bulldog as they've been specially formulated to counter dietary allergies. Also, try not to give your Frenchie too many table scraps — even some vegetables do more harm than good. French Bulldog Obesity French Bulldogs are not a highly-active breed, though they'll certainly eat like one if given the chance. It's your job to make sure that they stay adorably pump and don't gain too much weight. Your French Bulldog should have a solid structure supported by an athletic build. You should be able to feel its ribs, and your dog shouldn't have any breathing issues on a short walk unless it's a hot day in which case, take them inside. Overweight pups are more likely to develop severe heart problems and other health disorders, so it's important to keep your Frenchie on the right track. Following these suggestions to give your pup a high-quality, hypoallergenic diet will make certain to provide all the essential nutrients and vitamins. No matter what dog food you choose, be sure to introduce small amounts into their regular food a little at a time. We hope that this guide has helped you to make informed choices about how to feed your pup — remember, you can always contact us with any questions too! Happy feeding! We recommend talking to your vet for more information on puppy weight so that they can advise on food and nutrition. They should be in a safe place with little to no disturbance, especially during nursing time, to help keep them calm while getting their nourishment. By 3 weeks of age, your puppy should have at least twice the weight they had at birth. Also, during their third week, if your vet recommends it already, have your puppy dewormed to avoid onsets of digestive problems, sickness, and the like. One common mistake of most beginner breeders and pet owners is forgetting to deworm their little ones, but this is crucial since puppies can be prone to sickness. A French bulldog puppy that is 4 weeks of age can begin the solid food introduction. This makes them far earlier in terms of weaning as compared to other breeds. Try offering your puppy kibble portioned with water to make it easier to digest for them. You can also feed them with bits of raw food, as long as your vet agrees to it and if you prepared the raw food properly. However, kibble is the most standard way of feeding your French bulldog puppy, especially if you are on a limited budget and if you have a plethora of puppies to take care of. Just make sure to take your time into offering them, as weaning is not an instant process that happens overnight. Remove any uneaten food immediately after 20 minutes of not being touched to avoid spoilage or give to the other puppies. During the sixth week of your French bulldog puppy, they should somehow already eat solid food, even in little amounts, because it will help with their overall physical development. Consider serving high-quality food that is not made with too many filler ingredients. Look for French bulldog puppy food that is filled with a lot of protein to help them gain muscle mass and energy throughout the day. This is especially the case for puppies that are often active. Likewise, the 6th week is also the time when your puppy has their first milk teeth so they need comfort food. Ask your vet about whether your French bulldog puppy is ready to get vaccinations and other supplements by this time. You can choose the time of day that you want to feed them, but keep them spaced just fine to avoid bouts of hunger and overeating. Full raw feeding is also okay by this stage if your French bulldog puppy is fully weaned. Make sure that you calculate your raw food nutrients and calories carefully to avoid a lack of nutrition, or simply ask your vet or breeder about it. Puppies that are 8 weeks old will also need to be socialized more often. By doing this, you are training their body clock to eat at certain times. Some breeders already slowly transition from puppy to adult food during this time. Get advice from your vet as to when your pup should switch to adult formulas since it might disrupt their tummy and overall health. If you must feed them with treats due to training, make sure to include it in their list of calories consumed the entire day, and talk to your vet about it. Your vet could even offer treats that are low in calories but are healthy and tasty for your pup as an alternative. Recommended Food French bulldogs are known to be prone to diarrhea, skin problems, cherry eye, and hip dysplasia. Therefore, they will need a good amount of nutrients for their food during puppyhood. Glucosamine foods Glucosamine is a type of nutrient found in most chicken, fish, and seafood. You can also talk to your vet about glucosamine supplements although they might only recommend it when needed, such as due to genetic history of joint problems. Omega fatty acids Omega fatty acids come from fish oil, which can help improve their coat appearance and resist skin allergies. Generally, French bulldogs are known to be very sensitive when it comes to getting skin diseases so having omega fatty acids in their diet is a must. Your veterinarian might also recommend supplements to help improve their coat appearance. However, of course, a healthy coat and skin still largely depend on proper grooming habits, such as bathing, brushing, and clipping as needed. Quality meat sources Typical protein sources, such as fish, chicken, lamb, and beef, are a staple for most puppies — French bulldogs included. The trick is to look for a brand that has a certain animal as their first ingredient and not merely a random mixture of meat that you might find suspicious. Carrots Vitamin A is found in carrots, which can help lessen the likelihood of cherry eye and similar eye problems in your French bulldog when they get older. They mostly contain poisonous ingredients that are not suitable for French bulldogs and all canines, anyway. Keep in mind to stay away from these veggies and fruits as they are only for human consumption. Choking hazards Foods that are considered choking hazards for a French bulldog puppy include asparagus, avocadoes, and cherries. Asparagus is usually okay for French bulldogs, but if you need to feed it to them, make sure to cut them into very small pieces. Cooked bones are also quite tricky and usually not recommended for French bulldogs due to their threat of being a choking hazard. When the bones split after being cracked and chewed, they could injure your puppy — even when they turn into adults later on. Fillers like corn and wheat We did mention that French bulldog puppies have sensitive tummies, right? Look for high-quality content in your puppy food, such as little to no corn or wheat, and more of healthier carbohydrate sources, such as sweet potatoes, and meats like chicken, fish, beef, and turkey. FAQs on Feeding a French Bulldog Puppy If you want to know more about how to feed a French bulldog properly, here are some additional information on their feeding habits and other tips: How many calories are suitable for my French Bulldog puppy? The average calories for a French bulldog puppy should be around 12 calories per pound and you can increase that up to 30 if they are highly active. However, more factors will come into play, such as the type of food and their genetics. When should I switch my French bulldog puppy to adult food? We recommend waiting for your puppy to grow at least 1 year old for them to switch properly to adult food. A French bulldog should be switched from puppy to adult food gradually. Next, wait for a couple of meals and transition every few days by giving them more of the new food than the old formula. Eventually, after about a few weeks or so, your puppy should already eat only the new food. What this slow food adjustment does is eliminate the likelihood of stomach upsets. As we mentioned above, French bulldog puppies are prone to digestive issues, which is why you need to be mindful of what they eat. First, if your French bulldog puppy just moved in from an old breeder, they might feel uneasy and might not eat well. Be sure to make the change slowly to avoid ruining their digestive system. Feeding your puppy is all about trial and error because every pup has a different taste preference, after all, just like humans. It could be an underlying health problem that needs to be addressed. Raw feeding a French Bulldog puppy Raw feeding a French bulldog puppy is possible, as long as you get proper advice from your vet. It is quite a complicated process since it involves calculating the amount of protein and nutrients from organ meat, vegetables, fruits, supplements, and others. On the flip side, it is quite a daunting task to prepare raw food for them to ensure that everything is balanced in terms of nutrients. If food sanitation is a problem in your area and you live in highly-humid coastal areas, it will be more difficult for you to handle raw meat. Conclusion As a whole, French bulldogs are sensitive as puppies and adults. This is why feeding them properly is a must. French bulldogs, like other breeds, need specific nutrients and also a strict schedule to maintain their weight properly. We hope that this guide on feeding a French bulldog puppy helped you out in raising your companion to be a healthy and happy dog! Excellent nutrition is important in order to have a healthy and happy dog. There are many varieties of food out there; wet, dry, freeze dried, raw, or cooked. Regardless of what food you decide on, they do need to be on a high-quality and nutritionally balanced dog food. What are the signs of high-quality dog food? The food should contain lean meat-based protein sources such as chicken , turkey , pork and beef. Feeding Your French Bulldog at Different Life Stages Once your puppy is fully grown, generally, between months of age they will progress on adult dog food. As young puppies, they have a huge requirement for calories and high-quality ingredients to promote puppy growth. Puppies grow rapidly during the first six months of their life and they continue growing more after this period. Without proper nutrition, they might be stunted and underweight. Check out our other article to learn how to switch puppy to two meals per day! Once your puppy is fully grown, generally, between months of age they will progress to adult dog food. This food will provide the nutrients and calories required to maintain an adult weight. Very active dogs will need more calories while sedentary dogs will need less. Dogs that have been neutered will have slightly different nutritional requirements than other adult dogs. They generally need fewer calories to prevent weight gain which can happen in the months after neutering surgery. This can be achieved by feeding a diet with relatively low carbohydrates and high-quality lean protein. Senior dogs require highly digestible foods and a good source of omega fatty acids for potentially stiff joints. They might require varying levels of protein depending on their kidney function and body condition. Good quality nutrition will keep your dog at optimal body condition and health. Feeding stage-of-life specific recipes allows your dog to have the optimal nutrients for the life stage they are in. However, regardless of small differences, most dogs will loosely follow the growth chart below. Age of French Bulldog. Pin64 71 Shares When we first brought Claude home, we had no idea on how much food we should be giving him. We spoke to our vet, and this is what he told us about how much you should feed a French bulldog puppy. A French bulldog puppy should be fed 3 times a day whilst there are still 2 to 6 months old. Once the French bulldog puppy reaches 6 months, you can reduce the feeding schedule down to 2 meals a day. But now having been a French bulldog owner for 3 years, I can now look back and give you some more detail on exactly what our French bulldog puppy feeding schedule was like and how it worked for us and him. French bulldog puppy feeding chart Below you can see a French bulldog puppy feeding guide I put together. It contains some rough guidance on how you should schedule and plan his feeds, and what other factors you might need to take into account. Please do print it out and put on your fridge. How many cups of food should I feed my French Bulldog? Before you look at the French Bulldog feeding chart below, you might want the quick answer to how many cups of food to feed your French Bulldog. As a general rule of thumb, you should feed a French Bulldog puppy aged 8 to 12 weeks around 1 and a half cups of food a day, in 3 separate meals. As your Frenchie gets older, the number of cups of food you should feed them will change. You can see the cup amounts and frequencies in the French Bulldog feeding chart graphic below. This French bulldog puppy feeding chart tells you how much you should feed them Source: Canin The French bulldog puppy feeding chart shown above is taken from the Royal Canin dog food range. This is exactly what we fed Claude as he was growing up. They range a specific French bulldog puppy food, and on the packaging you will see a version of the chart above, including how best to feed your own puppy. Handy Hint: To stop your Frenchie from bloating and possibly choking you should use a suitable feeding bowl. Here are the best French Bulldog food bowls that vets recommend. When you take your puppy to his new home, he should already be used to eating puppy food. As I mentioned earlier, you should be feeding your French bulldog puppy 3 times a day. They need that regularity as they are growing and burning a lot of calories. You know how energetic they are! How much you feed them at each mealtime will typically be half a cup of their dry puppy food. Across the day, that will equate 1. However, their weight and health will then determine how much you feed them as they get older. Calories matter, but are hard to count As French bulldogs get older, you should try to feed them according to their weight. For every pound, they should be fed between 25 and 30 calories. However, for the rest of this French bulldog puppy feeding guide, I am just going to talk in cups. Puppy weight How can weigh your puppy at the vets or, and this is can be a more interesting and fun way if your puppy already knows how to sit, have them sit on a scale at home. It will not be as accurate as a scale at the vet, but it could be a cheap and fun experience for you and your pet. Because of this, your puppy may be a little stubborn about eating dry and wet food if they were only just recently weaned. Here is where the math gets a little more detailed, but not too complicated. When they are between 8 to 12 weeks old, the puppy should be fed about 1. This food should be high in calories since they need extra nutrients that they are no longer getting from their mother. This kind of follows the main rule when it comes to spreading out the meals to 3 times a day. But for younger pups, many owners will split the 1. Because feeding them 0. Once they are between 6 and 9 months old, they should be used to their eating routine. That is when the main rule is applied because by then, the pup will be maturing into its adult size and should weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. What about older dogs? Also, if you are wondering how much they should be fed once they start hitting their senior years, they should be fed a little less as long only if they are not as active. Make sure you still stretch out the meals to 3 to 4 times like when they were puppies because it is not uncommon for their stomachs to weaken with old age. Overweight or underweight? French bulldog puppies usually weight between 8. Once they reach 6 to 9 months, they are just at or are closer to reaching their adult weight, .If the puppy is underweight, then add very small increments to each meal every day until they are no longer underweight. It is important to not add too much food because of the possibility of them getting a twisted stomach. If the puppy is overweight, you can either slightly reduce the size of their meal until they lose weight, or you can give them more exercise. Many people prefer the later since it helps the pup to get stronger and adds more bonding time. The same methods apply to grown French bulldogs as well. Handy Hint: Read this guide which explains how to check if you have a fat French Bulldog who needs to lose weight, with tips on how to get the pounds down. If the dog does not appear to be gaining weight when they are underweight or vice versa if they are overweight, you might want to take them to the vet since it could be a sign that something is affecting their health. Health conditions Since not every animal is the same, ask your vet the next time your pup has a check-up what a French bulldog of their size and age should weigh. Health factors like diabetes yes, dogs can have diabetes , can make your pup need a more strict diet or feeding routine. Here are some different diets and feeding routines. Raw food vs. Many dog lovers say that there are too many preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and protein in dry and wet food. While the raw food diet can be more natural, especially if it is organic, you also have to make sure your pup would be getting more foods with vitamins and minerals mixed in with the raw food that your pup would need. Raw food diets can be more expensive, require more storage room for the meats and veggies, and take longer to prepare. However, you would be personally ensuring that your little French bulldog pup is getting their full daily nutrition without harmful by-products and additives. Is there a good dry food diet? Possibly the biggest questions out of all of them: is there any good dry dog food out there and how do I find them? The answer is yes, there can be some healthy dry dog food products, but it takes some time to look for. The key is to look for dog food that does not contain any preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and too much protein. Fillers basically do not provide any nutritional value and can even harm your dog since most of the ingredients they use as fillers are common allergies for dogs that can cause skin conditions, bowel issues, and more. Wheat and corn are included since they are also a popular allergen for dogs. Too much protein is even more dangerous for them since it can put more pressure on the organs, throw off nutritional balance, increase the likelihood of diabetes, and can harm dogs that already have diabetes. To see the safe and dangerous fruits list, click here. Another two meat choices would be duck and turkey, but these are a little less common to find, especially if you are looking for a French bulldog specific dog food. Your dog eats his food too quickly Another common problem is how do you control how fast your French bulldog puppy eats. French bulldogs love to eat their food and eat it fast, which is one of the primary causes of GDV. Frenchies will stop eating for a number of reasons, some more serious that others. Conclusion So there you have it, your guide to how much you should feed your French bulldog puppy. Everything in this feeding schedule and the French bulldog feeding chart you see is based on personal experience. Once in the morning, and once in the early evening. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Frenchies will stay as healthy as ours has! We do not claim to be veterinarians. French Bulldogs can easily become overweight or underweight , especially the lazy ones. Some french bulldogs are hyperactive while others are couch potatoes. It is also critical that you maintain a consistent feeding schedule and never slack off on feeding your French Bulldog. Even more important than that is feeding your Frenchie the proper amount of food daily. Young Frenchies have high caloric and nutrient needs. French Bulldogs aged anywhere from weeks of age need a total of 1. Spreading out the meals minimizes the peaks of energy your French Bulldog will experience due to dramatic rises and decreases in blood sugar levels between meals. Feeding only twice daily can sometimes lead to gastric dilatation volvulus. By this stage, your French Bulldog is ready to get into an eating routine that they will continue on for the rest of their happy, little chubby lives, barring no serious medical ailments later on in life. From around 6 months to 1 year of age, you can start feeding your French Bulldog a very high quality adult doggy food. It is important to maintain a strict routine for your French Bulldog. You can always supplement a few treats in between. Wink wink. A half a cup at a time will make sure your Frenchie is pleasantly tubby and happy. Some days, it seems like a French Bulldog can never get enough food. This seemingly natural hunger is relative to the breed and you should be weary of overfeeding your French Bulldog. Monitor your Frenchie as she eats and make sure she only eats her own food, especially if you feed your French Bulldog near other pets. Note that non-neutered males may grow into the low 30lb range. Always consult a vet. Ideally, 2. This sort of consult is always quick and cheap sometimes free and you owe it to your companion to get the opinion of an expert veterinarian. Overweight Frenchies can suffer from some very severe health problems, including heart disease just like humans , labored breathing, and lack of physical exercise. Never take a French Bulldog out to play in sweltering heat, they can die. Generally, older French Bulldogs will require slightly less food than their young counterparts. However, do not restrict food from your French Bulldog if they appear to be underweight or hungry. A reader pointed out in the comments below that these calculations would put french bulldogs in the 40lbs range somewhere around calories per day. This is obviously an outlier situation and no french bulldog needs that many calories. This means feeding your french bulldog less food as they age. If they look thinner than usual, you can move up by 5 calories per pound of weight until you find a magic number. No french bulldog is identical and our suggestions are based on average weights computed to a mean average calorie intake suggestion. Read: I use this calculator and a pad of paper. See this guide in order to determine the appropriate weight for your Frenchie. Subject: How much should I feed my French Bulldog? Getting a new dog entails a great deal of responsibility. Primarily, you must correctly feed them. French Bulldogs are delicate canines who can develop health problems if they are not properly fed. Indeed, what they eat as puppies has an impact on their health later in life. You must provide three balanced meals every day to your French Bulldog in order for it to be a healthy dog. He requires high-quality puppy chow that is high in protein and vitamins. Consult your veterinarian or an experienced dog breeder if you are unsure about which food to purchase. Please keep in mind that the weaning process usually takes two to three weeks. The puppy should be acclimated to eating puppy food before you take him to his new home. As previously stated, feeding your French Bulldog puppy three times a day is crucial. Remember to feed them on a frequent basis when they are growing and burning a lot of calories. This demonstrates how active they are during their formative years. At each mealtime, how much should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? It will be the equivalent of 1. This should be followed as a general rule until they are around six months old. Then, as they become older, their weight and health will dictate how much you should feed your French Bulldog puppy. A French Bulldog puppy between the ages of 8 and 12 weeks should eat about 1 and a half cups of food each day, divided into three meals. The amount of food your dog need will alter as he grows older. The weight of a puppy, the amount of food a typical dog should eat, and the adjusted amount for a very active dog are all listed on the French Bulldog feeding chart. For example, a 9-kilogram dog should receive 1. A 2- to a 3-week-old puppy is starting to respond to sounds and his eyes are fully open. By now, your puppy should have grown to be twice the size he was when he was born. Every 4—6 hours, he still needs to be nursed. He has become more active and is able to urinate and defecate on his own. A puppy this young, however, should not be weaned and separated from his mother. Raw beef mixed with a particular formula is given by some owners, while kibble is given by others. For disease prevention, some dog breeders prefer raw feeding. Little puppies get more playful at this age and go out of their sleeping place. This is an excellent opportunity to expose him to a different place where he can do his business. They are enthralled by other animals. House training has begun in earnest. Puppies are now consuming solid food, which is often ground raw food with a high protein and vitamin content. This is also the time when puppies receive their first vaccinations. After the initial shots, booster vaccines are administered every few weeks. This is a distressing situation for a puppy, just as it is for human babies. By the time they are 8 to 12 weeks old, puppies should be eating 1. This diet should be high in calories, protein, and other nutrients necessary for them to grow. You can offer your puppy raw food during this time. Your lovely puppy is developing a fear of the unknown, which includes people and other dogs. Puppy social skills develop as they receive care and instruction, and they learn their place in the pack. Your French Bulldogs will be the most comfortable and happy if you feed them at the same time every day. This is also a good time to begin gradually introducing adult dog food to your puppy. If you have a little dog, you might want to wait until he or she is a year old. Puppies should be fed 1. French Bulldog Puppy, 12 Weeks Your dog will still require 1. Follow this routine and resist the impulse to give your dog more food. French Bulldogs have a tendency to gain weight and, as a result, suffer health problems. Activity level, health, age, and weight are all factors that influence the amount of food your French Bulldog requires. The number of calories your French Bulldog puppy consumes should increase in proportion to their weight as they grow older. Feeding your puppy 12 to 30 calories per pound of bodyweight is recommended. Allowing your French Bulldog puppy to have consistent access to food throughout the day is known as free feeding. Because they lack the self-control to stop eating when they are full, free-feeding your French Bulldog can lead to obesity. Free feeding makes it tough to train your puppy and keep track of how much food they consume. Wet foods are easy to chew, especially for pups, and they include a lot of moisture, which keeps your French Bulldog hydrated. Wet food has more moisture, which minimizes the risk of urinary infections and other problems. Some people feed their puppies a combination of wet and dry food. If you decide to use this procedure, consult your veterinarian beforehand to avoid causing health issues in your dog. Is it possible to feed raw food to a French Bulldog puppy? Raw foods are safe for your French Bulldog. As part of the raw food diet, give your puppy grains, fruits, and vitamins. Raw meats, on the other hand, can induce bacterial infections if they are not handled or cooked. Bones in raw foods can cause your puppy to choke or shatter his teeth. Food is required three to four times per day for French Bulldog puppies, and twice per day for adult Bulldogs. Your French Bulldog puppy can consume a variety of human foods. Apples, broccoli, bananas, mango, and blueberries, among other fruits and vegetables, are safe for your puppy. Cheese, chicken, turkey, salmon, tuna, sweet potatoes, rice, and pumpkin are all safe human foods for your puppy. All of these diets provide your puppy with the nutrition he or she requires to grow strong and healthy. Because they contain components that are poisonous to your French Bulldog, certain human foods may not be safe for your puppy. Chocolate is the most deadly food for your dog because it includes theobromine, which can induce seizures, tremors, irregular heartbeats, and even death in some cases. Garlic, onions, chives, leeks, candies, baked goods, fruit drinks, and cereals are among the foods that a French Bulldog puppy should avoid. The major disadvantage is that there are several low-quality kibble products on the market. Some people are only in it for the money, just like in any other industry. These drawbacks, however, can be mitigated by selecting a high-quality brand. L Look for formulae designed exclusively for French Bulldogs. To assist them, specialized recipes are carefully crafted. Wet food, on the other hand, has fewer calories due to the water content. Wet food is more expensive than dry food since your dog will need to eat more of it. Wet food is also messier than dry food, which is especially true if your dog is a sloppy eater. Some experts believe it is the finest option! To avoid this, conduct your homework and know exactly what your dog needs so that they do not go without essential nutrients. It takes time to make because you must buy the ingredients separately and cook the meals. Raw food also takes longer to clean up than any other cuisine. To prevent you and your family from being ill, make sure to sterilize the place where you made the food. Many of the benefits and drawbacks of feeding a puppy a prepared food are the same as when feeding raw. A raw diet is more dangerous than eating homemade cuisine with properly cooked meats. It will, however, be costly and time-consuming. A French Bulldog is a little dog with a short growth rate. By three months, these canines are only 5 — 6 inches tall on average. All puppies had grown another 2 inches three months later, at the age of six months. They grow another inch in the eleventh month. When your puppy is a year old, you can do this. When French Bulldog puppies reach the age of one year, they are considered adults. It is not a good idea to make a complete switch all at once. You should gradually introduce his new food to your dog. This can be accomplished by substituting a portion of the old food for the new food and mixing it in with the new food. Start by feeding your dog 14 percent new food and 34 percent old food for a few days. Then, for a few days, give the dog half and half, and then, for another few days, give him 34 new food and 14 old food. If your dog appears to be content, switch to only the new food. When it comes to selecting adult food, a good rule of thumb is to select an adult meal that contains similar ingredients to the puppy food your dog is accustomed to. When anxious, French Bulldog puppies may refuse to eat. There are a variety of reasons why your dog may be stressed, including recent relocation, the addition of a new infant, or the removal of your puppy from his pack to live with you. This is completely normal and anticipated. Ensure that you serve him the same food that he is accustomed to. He might be interested in the change. If none of these methods work, you should take him to the veterinarian for an examination. For maximum health, French Bulldogs require a well-balanced diet that includes a wide variety of nutrients. The food should be made mostly of high-quality protein sourced from chicken, eggs, lamb, duck, and venison. This guarantees that your muscles expand in a healthy way. Calcium and phosphorus should be incorporated in the diet for strong bones and teeth. Essential vitamins, chelated minerals, and antioxidants are also required for a healthy immune system in dogs. To ensure healthy skin and a lustrous coat, the mix should also include vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids. To encourage healthy digestion, the formula should include both prebiotic fiber and probiotics. Read the dog food labels carefully before purchasing a reliable brand. If your dog shows signs of being undernourished, such as being restless and lacking energy, it may be time to explore supplementation. Many dogs require supplements as they age because they may acquire an increased need for nutrients that they may not be getting enough of from their food. If you have any doubts, it is preferable to see your veterinarian. Most dogs, especially puppies, drink the recommended quantity of water on their own. Your dog will drink enough water if you have drinking water in a clean bowl available. Young puppies, on average, require one-half cup of water every two hours. They need between a half ounce and one ounce of water per pound of body weight every day as they become older. So, if your dog is 16 pounds, he will need between 8 and 16 ounces of water every day. This equates to one to two cups of water every day. If you give your dog dry food, make sure he drinks plenty of water afterward. The French Bulldog is an energetic breed that enjoys being active. Every day, they require at least an hour of exercise. This might be as simple as taking a quick walk around the neighborhood or a lengthier walk in the park. Of course, a beloved toy can also be used to entertain your dog. Remember that brachycephalic short-nosed dog breeds often have breathing problems and should not be overworked, especially in hot weather. The head is large and square, with prominent wrinkles wrapping around the extremely short nose. Underneath the sleek, glittering coat, the body is compact and muscular. The lovely Frenchie is cheerful and outgoing. How many cups of food should I feed my French bulldog? How much water should a French bulldog puppy drink? How much water should a French Bulldog puppy be given? Puppies drink more than adult dogs and can consume half a cup of water every few hours. What should I feed my 8-week-old French Bulldog? This food should be high in calories, protein, and other nutrients that they require in order to thrive. During this period, you can feed your puppy uncooked food. Can you overfeed a French bulldog? Due to the high-calorie content of puppy chow, be careful not to overfeed your French bulldog. How many times a day should a Frenchie be fed? You Might Like:.

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:. 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. They are almost square in appearance, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The maximum height for a male is 24 inches, which puts them in the medium-size dog category, but their sturdy build can make them seem much larger. Weights range from 85 pounds for a large male to 55 pounds for a smaller female. Field line bred dogs are often taller and somewhat thinner in build. Labrador retrievers are easily recognized by their broad head, drop ears and large, expressive eyes. Two trademarks of the Lab are the thick but fairly short double coat, which is very water repellent, and the well known "otter tail. The feet are described as "webbed," with longer skin between the toes to aid in swimming. The Labrador retriever is a moderately fast maturing breed, reaching adult height from six to 12 months, but possibly still filling out up to 2 years of age. Many Labs reach 12 to 14 years of age. Personality: In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. Labs are usually good with other dogs, other pets, and children as long as training has toned down their natural exuberance. They are strong dogs and need some obedience training at an early age or they can be seen dragging their owners down the street at will. Owing to their energetic nature, Labradors who are left alone or not well exercised can become destructive — chewing, digging and barking to excess. The field line dogs are especially high-energy dogs, while some of the show line dogs become perfect couch potatoes at an early age. Chewing can be a problem because the strong retrieve urge gives them an oral fixation. Sturdy chew toys, exercise and training all help with this. Living With: Obviously, Labradors have a number of endearing traits or they would not be so popular. They are intelligent and fairly easy to train, partly from their desire to work with people. They are "easy keepers" and can become overweight if they are not exercised and food portions adjusted as needed. Labs are excellent family dogs because they do want to be with people and many do not do well as kennel dogs. Labradors do tend to be protective of their families and homes but are usually happy to greet company, too. With the strong retrieving instinct, they can develop into destructive chewers if not given appropriate toys and guidance. Labs may tend to "mouth" people and the solution is often simply to give them a toy to carry around, so their mouths are already full! These are very strong dogs and early training is necessary to have a dog that walks nicely on lead. The wonderful double coat that keeps the Labrador warm while retrieving in icy water also gives this breed top billing as shedders. Normally, their coats do fine with a quick weekly grooming, but at shedding time daily grooming is needed. The amount of exercise they need varies with the different lines: field line dogs can run all day, whereas show line dogs only need moderate exercise. History: Early in the s, some of the multipurpose dogs used in North America mostly Canada by hunters were shipped back to England. Many of these "water dogs" were of the Newfoundland type, but the smaller ones were often designated "St John's" dogs. In England, the breed was developed and refined probably with some flat-coated retriever input into the breed we recognize today. As is evidenced by their name, Labrador retrievers were bred and selected for their outstanding retrieving abilities, particularly in water. They have worked as partners with duck hunters in all kinds of weather and conditions. Their intelligence and desire to work as a partner with man has led to many other jobs, and to their current status as popular pets. Today, Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, family pets, scenting dogs for the military, customs and arson task force dogs, search and rescue dogs as well as hunting companions and performance dogs. The breed's good nature has propelled it to the number one ranking in popularity in America, a position it intends to keep. Despite their fame as indoor pets, they are even more at home outdoors. It should always be remembered that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and from early on, puppies show a strong desire to carry things around with them and a strong attraction to water, even puddles! Related Pet Care Articles. Dog domestic dog The Labrador Retriever, or simply Labrador, is a British breed of retriever gun dog. It was developed in the United Kingdom from fishing dogs imported from the colony of Newfoundland now a province of Canada , and was named after the Labrador region of that colony. It is among the most commonly kept dogs in several countries, particularly in the European world. The Labrador is friendly, energetic, and playful. It may also be trained as a guide or assistance dog , or for rescue or therapy work. Another early advocate of these Newfoundland fishing dogs was the 2nd Earl of Malmesbury , who bred them for their expertise in waterfowling. The dogs Buccleuch Avon and Buccleuch Ned, given by Malmesbury to Buccleuch, were mated with bitches carrying blood from those originally imported by the 5th Duke and the 10th Earl of Home. The offspring are the ancestors of all modern Labradors. John's water dogs bred by European settlers in Newfoundland were first introduced to Britain from ships trading between Canada and Poole in Dorset. These were then bred with British hunting dogs to create what became known as the Labrador Retriever. Early writers have confused the Labrador with the much larger Newfoundland and the Lesser Newfoundland , with Charles St. John even referring to the Lesser Newfoundland as the Newfoundland. Colonel Peter Hawker describes the first Labrador as being not larger than an English Pointer , more often black than other colours, long in its head and nose with a deep chest, fine legs, and short and smooth coat, and did not carry its tail as highly as the Newfoundland. John's breed of these dogs [6] [7] in the fifth edition of his book Introductions to Young Sportsman, published in .Black Chocolate There is a great deal of variety among Labradors. The following characteristics are typical of the conformation show bred bench-bred lines of this breed in the United States and are based on the American Kennel Club standard. Size: Labradors are a medium-large breed. They should be as long from the withers to the base of the tail as they are from the floor to the withers. The AKC standard includes an ideal weight for dogs of 25—36 kg 55—80 lb and for bitches as 25—32 kg 55—70 lb. The coat is water-resistant, so the dog does not get cold when taking to the water in the winter. That means that the dog naturally has a slightly dry, oily coat. Acceptable colours are black, yellow, and chocolate. The eyes should be kind and expressive. Appropriate eye colours are brown and hazel. The lining around the eyes should be black. The ears should hang close to the head and be set slightly above the eyes. Jaws: The jaws should be strong and powerful. The muzzle should be of medium length and should not be too tapered. The jaws should hang slightly and curve gracefully back. Body: The body should have a powerful and muscular build. The tail and coat are designated "distinctive [or distinguishing] features" of the Labrador by both the Kennel Club and AKC. If a dog carried wild type alleles at all three loci, the dog will have a yellow coat. If a dog has a loss-of-function mutation at MC1R, it will also have a yellow coat, regardless of their genotype at the other two loci. Within the breed, this trait is not visible. Show and field lines[ edit ] Head and muzzle appearance: field left , and show right , showing the shorter muzzle length, more solid appearance head, and "pronounced" stop of the latter As a result of specialised breeding, there are significant differences between field and trial-bred and show-bred lines of Labradors. In the United States, the former are sometimes mistakenly referred to as "American" and the latter as "English", in fact, both field and show types are bred in both countries and all Labrador Retrievers are descended from British lines. In this experiment, German Shepherds had the highest chance of not completing it. However, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers had a higher success rate after going through longer training than the training required for Labrador Retrievers. For retrieving the Labrador Retriever has a soft mouth , a trait that allows it to carry game and waterfowl without damaging it. It continues in that role today, along with the Leonberger , Newfoundland and Golden Retriever dogs; they are used at the Italian School of Canine Lifeguard. During the Vietnam War they were used as scout dogs to track down dead or wounded soldiers or enemy positions. Notable issues related to health and well-being include inherited disorders and obesity most are missing all or parts of the appetite-regulating POMC gene. As of , it was widely considered the most popular breed in the world. 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.

Any signs of distress - pacing, restlessness, panicked behavior High fever - anything above .Allergies can cause additional symptoms, such as dry flaky skin, and hot spots. A few Boxers have had issues with chicken, beef, fish or eggs. In addition, certain spices can trigger an allergy, as well as soy, wheat, or other grains. Intestinal parasites: Here's something we never want, but it happens. Giardia or Coccidia can cause diarrhea. Giardia is a small parasite; kin to an ameba and this protozoan is not friendly. It's typically transmitted through water, in a puddle or other contaminated water. Even river or lake water on a hiking trip, and on rare occasions tap water can carry this parasite. This parasite causes gas and lots of diarrhea. Because the parasite runs in a cycle; it can seem to go away, and then come back, over and over again with almost IBS Irritable Bowel Syndrome type symptoms. It has a treatment available by the veterinarian if your dog has contracted it. Coccidia, which also causes diarrhea in dogs, is a different parasite and has a different treatment than giardia. Canines can contract this parasite via contact with infected feces, or sometimes from their mother. That doesn't mean the breeder or shelter wasn't clean, just that coccidia is a sneaky and resilient parasite. Coccidia is often carried by birds and passes in their droppings onto lawns, parking lots, and other areas of the flyover. It's highly recommended to watch what your Boxer is doing. Don't let them eat feces, sniff or lick at it. Protect them from puddles and melting ice. A few other parasites that can cause diarrhea in puppies, or in some cases adult canines, are roundworms, whipworms, hookworms, and threadworms. Ingesting something they are sensitive to: A canine's palate isn't the same as ours. Some dogs think that garbage, trash, decaying leaves, dead mice or birds, plants, and grasses are all things meant to be eaten. And, these can all upset the digestive system or be mildly to severely toxic. Infection and diseases: A lot of acute cases of diarrhea with dogs are caused by a minor bacterial infection that runs its course over a couple of days and then resolves. However, there are other more serious issues that can be at play. This includes: Campylobacteria, seen most often with young pups up to 6 months old. About half of all dogs carry this can be carriers that are healthy, but can pass this on. It's most often picked up when a dog eats the feces of another dog. While the top sign is diarrhea, there can also be straining during bowel movements, fever, vomiting, and enlarged lymph nodes. Inflammatory bowel disease which is catch-all term that is given if a dog has ongoing, chronic diarrhea linked to one of several conditions including allergies, parasites, lowered immune system, and some diseases including colitis. Diagnosing this includes blood testing, urinalysis, stool testing, and other tests. Antibiotics, corticosteroids, and medications to protect the lining of the intestines may be given. In many cases, a change to a different food which includes a switch in both protein and carb sources can help. Other less common but possible reasons for diarrhea include kidney disease, liver disease, cancer , lymphangiectasia, pancreatitis, and hemorrhagic gastroenteritis. Elements to Help Decipher Diarrhea Issues Color, smell, and consistency are all clues: Tarry, sticky black stools can point to upper GI bleeding and warrants an immediate vet visit. Red or red spotting in stools often points to bleeding in the lower GI tract. In those cases, the blood can be coming from small tears or rips in the anus. Yellow or green loose stools. With a puppy, yellow can point to coccidia. Otherwise, yellow or green indicates that food is passing through too quickly to digest completely. Gray can point to a liver-related issue. Foam seen in the diarrhea tends to point to a bacterial infection. Greasy diarrhea can mean the pancreas is having a problem. Give the stomach a break. If diarrhea is moderate to severe, you can withhold food for 24 hours. Do give supplements ; see below. Keep your Boxer hydrated. A lot of water is lost even with one episode of diarrhea. When the ability to drink fluids fast enough to compensate for the water loss is insufficient, dehydration can result. This is of particular concern for Boxer puppies and senior Boxer dogs, but is applicable to dogs of all ages. Try some organic chicken broth. After 12 to 24 hours, start your Boxer on a bland diet. This is typically just 1 protein and 1 starch. One of the most tolerated combinations is plain, white, skinless chicken breast diced small and plain white rice or plain oatmeal. However, lean beef and sweet potato are other good options. If you offer chicken, the broth from boiling the chicken is good for your Boxer to drink after it cools to a warm temperature. After 3 days, start to transition back to a regular diet or a new, better food if that was decided. By then, the body should be well-rested. Extra Tips What about Pepto Bismol? This is safe to give to most dogs. However, check with your vet. Some recommend not giving this, in order to allow the body to expel stools as it needs to. But, in some cases, if a dog, especially a puppy, is overwhelmingly stressed, and this can help control diarrhea to some degree. Do not give this to a Boxer that is pregnant or to any dog that is allergic to silicates. The typical dosing is 1 teaspoon for each 20 pounds. You can use this every 6 hours for up to 48 hours. Your vet may suggest a slightly stronger dose. Altering sleeping or living arrangements. When you have to go, you have to go, and your Boxer can't always get there in time. If that is happening to your Boxer puppy, pee pads placed over the floor of a pen or gated off area are a blessing. During this time avoid additional stress for your Boxer. At this time, Boxers don't need playtime with small children; it burns energy, and their reserves are low when dealing with diarrhea. Sore Rear-ends. Puppies and dogs can have red, irritated behinds from the change in acidity from diarrhea. They may lick their behind due to the irritation which only exacerbates the problem. This product is healing, disinfecting and completely safe to use. It doesn't hurt or sting. After cleaning the area with this product, organic coconut oil can be applied. It melts quickly and is a natural antibiotic, and it is very soothing. If you put it on first, then you can't use the Vetericyn afterward as the coconut oil also acts as a bit of a seal. Alternatively, you can cut open a Vitamin E gel tabs. The contents are liquid and slightly sticky. Apply the vitamin liquid to the irritated skin. If you don't see some improvement in 24 hours, broken skin around the anus may have developed an infection. The good news is that if you used Vetericyn, that risk is somewhat mitigated. Otherwise, you may need your vet to prescribe an antibacterial gel, sometimes an antibiotic shot, and occasionally a cone if you have a persistent licker. Continued below Things to do now.Become a Member - Receive reminders when we add new pages of information and submit photos of your Boxer for us to add to this site. Browse Boxer Dog Supplies - A round-up of our recommended products for optimal care. Check out our book - Simply the most comprehensive, helpful Boxer dog book that exists. Have you read this latest Topic of the Month? Each month we place a new Boxer dog blog topic to bring you new info. Always something fresh, always something to help keep your Boxer happy and healthy. Unlike mature dogs, with their bodily reserves of fat and water, puppies can quickly succumb to dehydration. Here are a few of the likely suspects. Internal Parasites Young dogs are frequent hosts for intestinal parasites like hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms. A parasitic infection is also likely to be accompanied by: Vomiting Weight loss A pot-bellied appearance A veterinarian can determine the specific type of parasite your dog is harboring and prescribe an effective deworming medication. Viruses and Bacteria Puppies rely on a clean environment to avoid becoming infected with harmful germs. Contaminated food or drinking water can harbor bacteria like E. Eating Table Scraps or Garbage An older dog who rifles through an overturned trash can may experience an upset stomach, but this is even more true for puppies. Foods that are unfamiliar, excessively rich, or expired can trigger a bout of diarrhea. Fortunately, watery stools brought on by off-limits food should resolve within a few hours. Routine is very important for a growing pup, so keeping their day as predictable as possible should reduce stress and improve digestion. Keep a close eye out, however, and visit your vet if diarrhea persists for more than a day or two. If the watery stools have an obvious cause for example, pizza left on the coffee table watch your puppy closely to ensure that diarrhea resolves once the irritant has passed through their system. They were bred from a German hunting dog that was crossbred with English bulldogs. Boxers are well-loved, high-energy family dogs that are sweet with children and vigilant guards of the family home. Some of the conditions that afflict Boxers have a genetic basis, and are more likely to happen to Boxers than to dogs of other breeds. Responsible breeders screen for these conditions, and when possible, avoid breeding dogs with those traits. But these conditions can still happen. Boxers are more likely to develop health problems such as heart problems, degenerative myelopathy, bloat, and ulcerative colitis than other dogs. Boxer Cardiomyopathy Boxers are more likely to develop a specific heart condition than other dogs. The condition, Boxer cardiomyopathy , is actually named after the breed, though other dogs can develop it. The most common sign a dog has Boxer cardiomyopathy is if it has trouble breathing. Your dog might cough or wheeze frequently. Your dog might start panting during walks or playtime. If you think your dog might have Boxer cardiomyopathy, you should avoid exercise until the dog can be examined by its veterinarian. Eventually the weakness will be more apparent, with loss of bowel and urinary control. The dog might struggle to get up because the disease also causes muscle atrophy. Boxers with degenerative myelopathy can become paralyzed by the disease. There is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. But if your Boxer has the disease, there are a few things you can do to help them suffer less. Kinesiology tape has been used successfully to help dogs with degenerative myelopathy. A dog that spends lots of time lying down is at risk of bedsores. Boxers that become partially paralyzed by degenerative myelopathy are candidates for wheelchairs. Dog wheelchairs can help to slow down the progression of degenerative myelopathy by removing stress on the joints and allowing more mobility and exercise. Both stress and lack of exercise can contribute greatly to the progression of the disease. Boxers with Bloat Bloat, or gastric dilation , is another health risk that boxers are more likely to suffer from than other dogs. Bloat is a potentially fatal stomach condition that is common in large dogs with deep chests, like boxers and shepherds. Bloat is caused by unhealthy eating habits: if a Boxer eats one large meal a day, or eats too quickly, they run the risk of bloat. If you notice your dog likes to scarf its food, you can give it smaller meals throughout the day. Also, make sure your Boxer does not run around or get over-excited within an hour or two of meals. Panting can cause a dog to swallow air, further expanding the stomach and contributing to bloat. Bloat can sometimes result in Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus. In GDV, the over-filled stomach twists around, cinching the ends closed. This is a true emergency, requiring immediate surgery. Nothing can escape from the twisted stomach, and the blood supply to the stomach and spleen is compromised. In a few hours, the dog can die from loss of blood supply to the stomach as well as physiologic shock. Ulcerative Colitis in Boxers Many Boxers also develop ulcerative colitis. In fact, non-Boxer dogs rarely develop the condition, which may have a genetic basis. Ulcerative colitis is another digestive system problem; dogs with the disease develop ulcers in their intestines. Boxers with the disease will have trouble absorbing water and have diarrhea or loose stool , and might lose weight as a result. Puppies one year old or younger most often develop the disease. Your vet will treat your Boxer by prescribing anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics. In some cases, your vet may recommend a change in diet. And remember—if your dog has any of these health problems, they should be treated by a veterinarian. The reasons below account for nearly all instances of diarrhea. Boxers can get diarrhea from eating foul or rotten foods, a change of kibble, stress and anxiety, bacterial infections, parasites, heatstroke, medications, or underlying health issues. Digestive upset Digestive upset accounts for most bouts of diarrhea. Anything from eating rotten or foul food, toxic ingredients, or receiving table scraps can cause your Boxer to experience diarrhea. Anything you boxer eats outside of their regular diet can potentially cause diarrhea even regular dog treats. Switch of diet, kibbles, or treats If diarrhea shortly proceeds a change of diet, kibble, or treats, then you likely have your answer already. Any kind of transition must be done very slowly, otherwise, diarrhea is the likely result. By making a slow transition you reduce the chances of diarrhea happening unless it really is going to happen anyway. General stress can be caused by a wide range of things including a lack of exercise, mental stimulation, being left alone too long, or simply not receiving enough of your attention… Ultimately, any level of stress or anxiety can lead to a myriad of health issues, and believe it or not, diarrhea is one of them. This may help you pinpoint a potential cause of new stress 4. Parasites Intestinal parasites are another well-known cause of diarrhea, granted, this is much rarer than the causes given above. Intestinal parasites can happen if your boxer ingests an infected flea, or the eggs in contaminated soil or feces. If your boxer does in fact have parasites, you might notice visible worms or blood in the diarrhea. Additional symptoms include vomiting, a lack of appetite and energy, weight loss, abdominal pain, and discomfort. Bacterial infections Bacterial infections can happen relatively easily but are another less common cause of diarrhea overall. On a day-to-day basis, our boxers interact with many surfaces and items that are covered in bacteria. Everything from their own food bowls to toys, their own bed, and a plethora of unknown items while out on walks. Sometimes bacteria can develop and actually make your boxer sick if he interacts or ingest it. This usually results in obvious symptoms including diarrhea, vomiting, appetite changes, and abdominal pain. Dehydration typically happens way before heatstroke, but both can happen quickly and unexpectedly. The problem with dehydration is that it can be both the cause and the result of diarrhea, which creates a nasty cycle. Because of this, dehydration must be avoided at all costs. We must also acknowledge the fact that diarrhea is a common symptom of a wide range of health issues. Popular read: What temperature is too cold for a boxer? If diarrhea is accompanied by additional symptoms, or your boxer is a puppy or senior, then you should consult with your veterinarian right away. In most cases, these will be the exact same steps your veterinarian will suggest. Short fast 24 hours Most vets will recommend withholding food for 24 hours to allow the stomach and digestive system to rest and recover. Please note that this is only suitable for healthy adults years. Puppies, seniors, or those with underlying health issues should not fast. Fasting allows the system to recover quickly and effectively. This is the ideal step before moving on to a bland food diet. Bland food diet Fasting should be done first by all those that qualify. If your boxer cannot fast, then the first step will be to follow a bland food diet. The bland food diet consists of plain boiled chicken breast with plain boiled white rice. This kind of diet works well as it continues to provide essential nutrients without stressing the digestive system. The usual plan of action is to provide 3 small meals of this per day. Most vets will recommend continuing with this diet until diarrhea stops. After, slowly reintroduce their old diet. Probiotics can be given alongside bland food diets and will help restore balance and strength in the stomach. As diarrhea is mostly gut-related, probiotics usually help a lot. Always check which kind of probiotics you are buying and if in doubt, ask your veterinarian for a recommended brand. Medication Antidiarrheal medication will likely be prescribed if your boxer is struggling to overcome diarrhea with the methods above. In some cases, depending on the health of your boxer, a veterinarian might resort to antidiarrheal medication right away. Pro-Pectalin is an antidiarrheal medication that you can often buy over the counter. Thank you for reading!

The long adolescent period that ends the puppy years is highly individual, but most dogs mature somewhere before 3 years of age. The Neonatal Stage This is the very earliest stage your German shepherd will pass through. Simply put, this is the helpless baby stage when your puppy's eyes will still be closed and he is completely dependent upon his mother. She will feed him, wash him and clean up after his accidents for the first two or three weeks. His eyes will open at around 10 days. At this time, your puppy is little more than an eating machine -- filling his belly to help his tiny body grow and develop. The Transitional Stage Though it is short and indistinct, the transitional stage from the neonatal to the socialization stage is important to your pup's development nevertheless. This brief phase -- lasting only about a week after his eyes open -- marks the period when your German shepherd begins to notice his environment. He will start to look at things curiously and be aware of sounds around him. Prior to this he has been in his own little world with no sights or sounds beyond his own body and that of his mother. When his eyes open, the immediate environment -- with other living beings -- is suddenly a part of life that he must face. The Socialization Stage At around 3 weeks, your puppy begins to learn how to interact with others -- both animals and the humans around him. He has already had some practice with dogs through the daily contact with his mother and litter mates, but now he begins to expand his circle of acquaintance to other dogs or cats in the household and to the family of humans around him. This is the most critically important phase in your German shepherd's development and helps decide his later suitability for work in rescue, service or as a family dog. At this time, he should have opportunities to meet as many new animals and faces under differing circumstances as possible, so he becomes comfortable with meeting people and other animals in a variety of situations when he grows up. This stage lasts to about 3 months of age and is the period when puppies are at their most impressionable and playful. The Juvenile Stage From 3 to 6 months old, your puppy will begin to look beyond the biological world of dogs, cats and people to the larger world around him. He will want to explore new places more than new faces at this point -- which may often get him into trouble. This is an active and trying age for puppy parents. Your puppy looks like a mostly grown-up dog but behaves entirely like a pup. His attention span is about as long as that of the average teenager, so this is not a particularly easy time for obedience classes. Your shepherd will have other things on his mind, but pet parents should continue to persevere because this is the best stage to resolve any obvious aggression or anxiety issues your pup may display. If those issues are not addressed early, they could become larger problems later on. To make things a tad more difficult, at around 5 months of age, your German shepherd starts to mature sexually. The Adolescent Stage The teenage angst that human children go through is roughly equivalent to what pet parents can expect from their adolescent German shepherd. Beginning with the onset of sexual maturity and lasting through the first two years of his life, your puppy's hormones will rage uncontrollably unless he is neutered early. This stage is usually marked by mounting -- anything and everything -- marking his territory and even fighting with other male dogs. Females will enter their first estrus period at this time and may try to escape the yard or otherwise pose problems. The pup's body has become adult, and his brain is fully alert and capable, but his emotions are still in the turbulent transitional phase from teenager to full adult. If he were human, this would be the stage at which you would hide the car keys. As an adult, your German shepherd is finally the calm, dignified, courageous and respectful dog you always knew he would grow up to be. If you were patient and dedicated through those early, sometimes difficult, years, you now have a well-trained and disciplined companion for life. More Articles. German Shepherd puppies available in Colorado German Shepherd puppies available in ColoradoGerman Shepherd puppies available in Colorado Puppy development - Understanding the Stages Puppy Development - The Stages Explained Understanding the puppy development stages will help you build the personality and character you want in your pup, which starts with training at each stage of development. To have a wonderfully social dog, that isn't fearful or aggressive, you need to ensure his needs are met during each phase of development. Probably one of the most important things you can do to achieve this is to get the right training at the right time. And that's not just for your pup; puppy parents need training too! You need to know how to integrate your puppy into the family and establish yourself as the pack leader. You'll see many behavioral changes during the life stages of your pup, some of which will no doubt test you, particularly when they reach the final stage - adolescence! Overview of Stages The puppy development process covers five distinct stages: 1. Neonatal Period at Weeks 2. Transitional Period at Weeks 3. Socialization Period at Weeks 4. Ranking Period at Months 5. Adolescence at Months Stage 1: Neonatal Period at Weeks The first stage of puppy development is when they are born. Most of us won't have our puppies at this stage but, if you are getting your puppy from a breeder, you may get the occasional picture from the breeder. At this age, puppies only have a sense of taste and touch and rely totally on their mother. Stage 2: Transitional Period at Weeks You're still not likely to see your puppy at this age but the breeder will start to notice some more senses developing, such as their hearing and sense of smell. They'll also start to have their puppy teeth coming through and their eyes will begin to open. This is also the age when they start to develop their little personalities. They will interact with their littermates, wag their tails, stand, walk a little, and are able to bark. Stage 3: Socialization Period at Weeks This is the most important stage of a puppy's development. It's also the stage where the most critical changes occur, and guess what, you're probably going to bring your puppy home during this period! Most puppies go home to their new parents at the age of 7 - 9 weeks so understanding this stage is vital. During this period, changes start to occur rapidly, so let's break down this puppy development phase. This is also where you can separate the good breeders from the puppy-mill-type breeders. Note: At Centennial GSD, our puppies are born and raised in our home where their interaction with humans and other animals begins at birth and accelerates at 21 days old; the most critical time in early puppy development. Unfortunately, puppies that are from puppy mills usually sold in pet shops don't get the opportunity to develop a relationship with humans until you bring them home. This sets them back with socialization from the start and additional work is needed to enable them to become fully sociable dogs. Puppies that are born in kennels or outside are also unfamiliar with the day-to-day noises of a regular household such as TV, vacuum cleaner, dishwasher, washing machine, phones, talking, laughing, people dropping things, you name it! You'd be surprised by how much noise we make on a daily basis and how frightening that can be to a puppy that has been raised outside. Once the puppies are at least 5 or 6 weeks old you should, if possible, ask the breeder if you can schedule a visit to see the puppies. Most good breeders recognize that the socialization period has already begun and will gladly welcome future pet parents visiting the puppies. What you're looking for in the photos is evidence that the puppies are comfortable around humans and ideally that they are indoors, preferably in a household. If all you see are photos of the puppies in a kennel, or outside, then you may start off with problems with socializing your puppy when you get them home. If you can't visit, then question your breeder on what plans they have in place for the puppies to be indoors and meet new people between the ages of weeks. If they have no plans in place then I would seriously reconsider using this breeder as they are hindering the socialization period of these puppies. These puppies could easily become shy or fearful around people and noises , which could lead to a fear aggression problem. If you do visit the puppies at 5 weeks old you're likely to see some fun stuff. At this age, puppies are just learning to interact with each other and begin to play. They are also learning their doggie social skills as well as beginning to explore their ranking status within their pack. Their curiosity is now starting to develop so they will be interested in you and may well nip at you as their biting skills are developing too. Seek out ways to handle puppy biting appropriately. Therefore, it is vital that you introduce your puppy to as many new dogs, people, objects, and surroundings as you can. BUT, make sure you do so in a controlled manner. If you have another dog at home you should make sure you introduce your puppy to your existing dog on neutral territory. When bringing a new puppy home it is also important that you puppy-proof your home for the sake of your puppy and your possessions! It is also a good time to start a program to get your puppy used to being left alone to avoid separation anxiety from developing. From the age of 7 weeks, puppies are more than capable of being able to be house-trained so make sure you start them off right. At this phase of puppy development, the little guys are developing their reactions to things a lot more. They are also likely to focus more on different types of people and, as long as your breeder and you did a good job initially, should be friendly and approachable to strangers. During this time they are also going to practice their biting skills a whole lot more! Previously they would play and bite with their littermates. Puppies will yelp when another pup bites too hard which provides feedback to that pup to bite softer. You now have to try and mimic this behavior to teach your puppy not to bite. This is called bite inhibition and is quite easy to learn and teach your pups. You'll also notice that they may start to wander off a bit as they are more curious and will probably look to explore their environment a lot more. Be prepared for this at this age. That cute little puppy that you could take out for a potty break without a leash now needs to be on a leash! Generally, puppies at around 8 - 9 weeks old will not wander off but once they reach the age of around 12 weeks of age curiosity begins to take over and they will venture out or even chase a rabbit rather than stay close. Stage 4: Ranking Period at Months If you have another dog in your household you may start to see more ranking behavior from your puppy towards other dogs. You'll likely see him practicing his dominance and submission skills, which he may well practice on you too. If you haven't done so already, make sure you start a training program with your pup. At this age, your puppy is going to go through teething so watch out, as chewing is a big factor at this time. You may also notice that there is blood on his toys and chews or in his mouth during the teething phase. Sometimes a puppy's tooth doesn't fall out and the adult tooth will come in next to it. If you notice this in your pup, take him to the vet as it will need to be removed by the vet to prevent it from interfering with the alignment of his teeth and can also cause root infections. Your puppy is usually done teething by the age of 6 months but you can tell when your puppy is finished teething once you see the upper fangs canines come in as they are last. Stage 5: Adolescence at Months Adolescence in German Shepherd Dogs will begin around nine or ten months old and likely continue until they are two or three years old. Consistency is key at this point so is routine. Puppy Development and Fear Periods During puppy development, puppies go through fear periods, in fact, on average they go through 4 fear periods. These are approximately at the following ages: 1. Between Weeks 2. Between 4 - 6 Months 3. About 9 Months 4. Between 14 - 18 Months This is a very important part of puppy development, as if you handle this incorrectly, you could end up with an aggression problem for life. As your puppy enters a fear period, he will suddenly become frightened of something that he used to be OK with or used to ignore. His reaction could be hunched down, shaking, backing away, hiding, running away, or submissively urinating. Or, your puppy could display more pronounced behaviors such as growling, barking, hackles up, or showing teeth. Either way, once you recognize one of these behaviors at the age range mentioned above, you would be wise to stop taking your puppy to new places and introducing them to new things for about a week. And if you can, don't schedule any vet appointments during a fear period. Your new puppy can grow up to be everything you want if you recognize these critical puppy development phases so you can prepare and react accordingly. Puppy Development Wrap Up By understanding what each stage involves with your puppy's development, you can get a good idea of what to expect, both developmentally and behaviorally. You'll also be better equipped to provide your puppy with the right care throughout each phase. Finally, providing a stable routine, consistency, positive training, and plenty of socialization and exercise you are more likely to produce a well-balanced and emotionally stable dog. After all, it is these periods of a puppy's life that will shape his personality and character. Quite simply, puppy development affects behavior, and behavior, molds character. Content courtesy of Sharon Dianora. Are male and female German shepherds different? The Neonatal Period. Birth-2 Weeks. In the first two weeks of their life your puppy is mostly helpless and fully dependant on their mother. Their mother will be responsible for feeding, eliminating waste and keeping them warm. The puppies will be able to taste, touch and feel warmth but their eyes and ears are sealed shut. You should see the following milestones hit in the first two weeks. What you should expect to see: Puppies Starting to Crawl Eyes and ears starting to open Teeth starting to appear By the end of the first two weeks your puppies should be able to stand up, albeit a little shakily and have their eyes and ears fully open. The Transitional Period. They will start to be able to control their body and temperature much better. They will start to interact with their litter mates but will still be largely dependent on their mother. What you should expect to see: Puppies Walking Well Puppies Interacting with you and their littermates Puppy teeth almost complete. The Socialisation Period 4weeks — 3 months The puppies will now have complete control of their body and will start exploring the world around them. The latter half of this period is the ideal time to rehome the puppies as this is when they are most susceptible to learning new things and they can start to be taught basic commands. Between weeks your puppy may start to display signs of some fearfulness. This is perfectly normal and will need to be nurtured Not encouraged by you. What you should expect to see: Start showing adult behaviours Wagging tails, sniffing bums Start to be able to be taught basic commands Ears begin to sit upright. The Juvenile Period 3months-6months Your German Shepherd puppy will become much more independent during this period. They will start to understand dominance and will explore their home to understand where their position is in the household. What you should expect to see: Female puppies begin heat cycles Ears now fully upright Males reach sexual maturity The Adolescence Period 6monthsmonths Most of your puppies social understanding and behaviours will have developed by this point but a reinforcement of these is still important. Your puppy will be at their most energetic and will require a structured training routine to help them to continue to develop. Males are considered fully grown at 36months whereas females reach this mark around 24months. You will know have an excellent, loyal family pet and companion to spend many years together with. German Shepherds are a medium-large breed. Females will grow to around inches and weigh lbs whereas the males will grow to around inches and weigh lbs. How many puppies is there in the average German Shepherd litter? German Shepherd litters Usually consist of between 5 and 10 puppies. How long do German shepherds live? The average life span for a German Shepherd is somewhere between 9 and 14 years. Other than the size difference already discussed females tend to be more affectionate than males where is male dogs are usually more protective of their surroundings and their families. Related Posts. Though they typically only average nine to thirteen years, those years can be very memorable and special to dog and owner. Along the way, there are several German Shepherd growth stages that they will encounter including several fun and exciting breakthroughs. They will go through many different levels of development stacking up in inches and packing on the pounds. German Shepherd Growth Stages: This article will cover in detail, all of the month-to-month growth stages including their size from 1 month old to 3-year-old. It will also include important milestones along the way. This is the puppy portion of the German Shepherd growth stages and these cute little fur balls are beginning their journey into the new world. They are independent, spry and ready to explore! They are starting to grow but stand no taller than half a foot. Cuteness Factor: Through the roof! Height: Male: 4 — 6 in 11 — 16 cm Female: 3 — 6 in 8 — 14 cm Weight: Male: 5. They stand up for the first time. They start exploring independently and playing. Bowel movements are partially controlled. Light barking and growling begin. Puppy teeth should be filling in. This is a good time to introduce them to some kibble. They may or may not be interested. Month 2: Socialization Growth Stage Once the fuzz balls reach month 2, they start socializing more with other animals and people. This is also the time that their little chompers should be complete. They have grown up a little but still remain under a foot tall. Cuteness Factor: Just look at my ears! Height: Male: 7 — 9 in 17 — 22 cm Female: 6 — 9 in 14 — 22 cm Weight: Male: 16 — 20 lbs 6 — 9 kg Female: 11 — 17 lbs 5 — 7. They start to bond with animals and people. Their mental development starts to speed up. Fear reaction begins. They are typically ready to find their forever home. Food: Weaning should be wrapping up at this age. They should transition to a diet of puppy kibble. One and a half cups total three times a day is recommended but stick to a solid schedule. Vaccines: Puppy should have distemper and parvovirus by this time. Teething will be in full force at month 3 and their adult canines and incisors will start to push through. Those cute little fluffy ears may start to go up and down. They will start to lose their puppy coat and you may notice a racing stripe on the spine where the adult hair is starting to grow in. At this point they have almost made it to the height of a standard ruler. Cuteness Factor: Equal to fluffy pillows! Height: Male: 9 — 11 in 23 — 27 cm Female: 8 — 10 in 20 — 25 cm Weight: Male: 22 — 30 lbs 10 — 14 kg Female: 17 — 26 lbs 8 — 12 kg Milestones: Ears begin to stand up. Teething stage begins and continues for several months. Lots of biting and chewing ensures. Potty training and socialization should be consistent. Puppy fuzz begins to be replaced with adult double coat of fur. Food: Two cups of puppy kibble total three times a day is recommended. Vaccines: DHPP which includes distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus are recommended. Month 4: At this point GSDs will be very playful and getting into some trouble. They have left puppy hood and become adolescents. Multiple skills will be developing as they learn, socialize and train. Height: Male: 11 — 14 in 29 — 35 cm Female: 10 — 12 in 26 — 31 cm Weight: Male: 35 — 40 lbs 16 — 18 kg Female: 31 — 35 lbs 14 — 16 kg Milestones: Ears continue to perk up. Teething continues as adult teeth come in. They continue to play and explore everything around them. Training continues as they constantly learn. Food: Puppy should continue to eat two cups of kibble total three times per day. Vaccines: DHPP and rabies are recommended. Month 5: At 5 months of age, they are still growing fast and should have gained close to 10 pounds. They are still in the juvenile stage and have plenty of energy to go around. They are looking much more like an adult but still have that puppy spirit. Ears may have perked up at this point. Cuteness Factor: Cute as pumpkin pie! Height: Male: 14 — 16 in 35 — 40 cm Female: 12 — 14 in 31 — 36 cm Weight: Male: 40 — 49 lbs 18 — 22 kg Female: 35 — 44 lbs 16 — 20 kg Milestones: Ears may be standing up. Adult features are filling out. They are at least half of their adult size. They are still teething. Sexual maturity begins to emerge. Food: Juvenile should still be eating around two cups total three times a day. Month 6: Adolescent Growth Stage At 6 months old, they are making their way into the adolescent part of the German Shepherd growth stages. They will be starting to get into their sexual maturity stage which will last until they are around two years old. Hormones will kick in and males will begin to mark their territory and look for females to mate with. Females may go into heat for the first time. Their adult coat should be completely grown in but it could take a bit longer. Cuteness Factor: Equivalent to a teddy bear! Height: Male: 16 — 18 in 41 — 46 cm Female: 15 — 17 in 37 — 42 cm Weight: Male: 49 — 57 lbs 22 — 26 kg Female: 44 — 49 lbs 20 — 22 kg Milestones: Ears should be standing up. Adult features are more filled out. They are sexually active and will begin marking their territory and roaming for mates. Teething should be close to finished and all 42 of their adult teeth should be almost grown. Full adult double coat of fur should be present. Food: Adolescent should be eating around two to three cups total two times a day. Month 7: At 7 months old , a German Shepherd should be well developed cognitively. Their sexual maturity continues, and your leg may just become their next mate. Some aggression may be present as their hormones go up and down. Their weight gain begins to slow down for the first time only adding around 5 pounds from the previous month. They are looking much more like an adult dog. Aggression and sexual maturity continue. Teething should be close to finished. Food: Adolescent should be eating two to three cups total two times a day. They are still maturing and could still be aggressive and bark or lunge at other dogs, kids or people. This behavior must be reined in with the proper training. Teaching them new tricks is a great way to curb their aggression. Cuteness Factor: Still able to melt your heart! Height: Male: 20 — 22 in 51 — 56 cm Female: 18 — 20 in 45 — 50 cm Weight: Male: 62 — 66 lbs 28 — 30 kg Female: 53 — 57 lbs 24 — 26 kg Milestones: Ears should be well formed and perky. They continue to transition into adulthood. They are still maturing, and aggressive behavior may be present. Teething should be finished, and all of their adult teeth should be grown. Month 9: At 9 months old, German Shepherds have reached most of their milestones. They should be sporting a full set of 42 adult chompers and some nice big perky ears. They are still maturing sexually and could be exhibiting aggressive behaviors, but training should be in full force. Cuteness Factor: Not puppy cute but still irresistible! Height: Male: 21 — 23 in 54 — 59 cm Female: 19 — 21 in 48 — 53 cm Weight: Male: 64 — 71 lbs 29 — 32 kg Female: 55 — 60 lbs 25 — 27 kg Milestones: They are still growing but only gaining a few pounds a month now. Month By 10 months of age, GSDs are still trucking along in the adolescent stage. They will still be acting like teenagers and may be getting into some trouble. Although clever and smart they will sometimes act clumsy and goofy. They are still learning and should be in training. Cuteness Factor: Cute and nutty like peanut butter! Height: Male: 22 — 24 in 55 — 60 cm Female: 19 — 21 in 48 — 53 cm Weight: Male: 66 — 73 lbs 30 — 33 kg Female: 57 — 62 lbs 26 — 28 kg Milestones: They are still growing but slowly. Month Moving into month 11, German Shepherds are becoming more and more adult but may be stubborn. They may start to challenge their owner with respect to leadership. They need to know that you are in charge and that they must respect your commands. Training and reinforcement is crucial during this time period. Cuteness Factor: Cute enough to get out of trouble! Height: Male: 22 — 24 in 57 — 62 cm Female: 20 — 22 in 51 — 56 cm Weight: Male: 66 — 75 lbs 30 — 34 kg Female: 60 — 64 lbs 27 — 29 kg Milestones: They are still growing slowly. Month 1 year old German Shepherds are moving out of the puppy phase of the German Shepherd growth stages and into adulthood. By now they have most likely formed a strong bond with their owner. They may still misbehave occasionally but proper training should be paying off. Food: Adolescent should transition to adult food and be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Vaccines: DHPP, rabies are recommended. Year 1. They are getting closer to sexual maturity. Cuteness Factor: Furry and plushness overload! Height: Male: 23 — 25 in 59 — 64 cm Female: 21 — 22 in 53 — 55 cm Weight: Male: 71 — 79 lbs 32 — 36 kg Female: 60 — 66 lbs 27 — 30 kg Milestones: They are still growing but slowly. Food: Adolescent should be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Year 2: At 2 years old, they should be well along in their journey to adulthood. With the proper training and socialization, they should be transforming into the alert, confident, courageous, loving and loyal German Shepherd companion that makes them so popular among dog owners. They are pretty much full grown at this point with only a few more pounds to pack onto their athletic frame. Cuteness Factor: Perfectly precious! Height: Male: 23 — 25 in 59 — 64 cm Female: 21 — 22 in 53 — 57 cm Weight: Male: 71 — 84 lbs 32 — 38 kg Female: 62 — 66 lbs 28 — 30 kg Milestones: They are still growing but almost full grown. Vaccines: DHPP is recommended. Year 3: Adult Growth Stage Your German Shepherd is finally an adult with all of the beautiful characteristics and traits that people admire. They have reached physical and sexual maturity and are ready to brave the new world. Consistent training should have payed off. They should be calm and well disciplined. Height: Male: 24 — 26 in 60 — 65 cm Female: 22 — 24 in 55 — 60 cm Weight: Male: 79 — 88 lbs 36 — 40 kg Female: 66 — 70 lbs 28 — 32 kg Milestones: They are done growing. They have matured physically and sexually. Food: Full grown adult should be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Vaccines: Rabies is recommended and can be required by law depending on your state. A full grown adult German Shepherd will stand approximately 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 70 and 88 pounds on average. However, some German Shepherds will get bigger even getting over a pounds. Hopefully your GSD is in the correct range. Keep an eye out for any deficiencies during their growth. These German Shepherd growth stages should help you determine all of the proper measurements to make sure they are right on track in their development. Each stage in their maturation is important. Remember to give them a high-quality healthy diet, plenty of exercise and sufficient training and socialization. These will all help lead to a stable and well-adjusted German Shepherd. Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think! Do you have any experience with a growing German Shepherd? Let us know! We would love to hear about your personal story! Share this:. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. German Shepherd Development: From Puppies To Adults Posted on Last updated: Categories German Shepherds From early puppyhood to adulthood, German Shepherds undergo significant development that shapes their temperament, behavior, and physical abilities. As a dog owner, understanding the developmental stages of your German Shepherd is crucial to providing the right care and training. German Shepherd development consists of several stages. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. Contents Final Thoughts German Shepherd Development and Growth Stages German Shepherd development refers to the physical, cognitive, and social changes that occur in German Shepherd puppies as they grow and mature into adulthood. These changes include the physical development of their muscles, bones, and organs, as well as their ability to learn and process information. Social development involves their ability to interact with other dogs and humans and to understand and follow social rules and norms. As a dog owner, it is important to understand the growth stages of your German Shepherd. Knowing what to expect during each stage can help you provide the best care for your furry friend. In the latter case, you need to know that the German Shepherd puppy depends on his mother for everything in these initial weeks. This includes food, warmth, and physical security. Here, your only responsibility is to make sure the dam is equipped with what she needs to fulfill her duties. As long as you feed the adult GSD right, she will be able to feed her babies and give them the warmth and company they need. You might notice that the puppies may seem asocial. Do not measure how the puppy interacts with other dogs for at least three to four weeks, which brings us to what you can expect within the next two weeks. This is where the puppy can wean off and not need a diet made up of milk exclusively. The puppy can consume solid food but is not too fond of it, especially if it is strange in texture. Your priority at this stage should be to get him to accept solid food without regressing to a diet of milk. There will be a social incentive in weaning off as the puppy will observe the litter he belongs to and notice a simultaneous change in feeding preferences. This brings us to a very important change: social interaction. I mentioned above that you should not worry about social disinterest up until the third week. However, by the fourth week, you should look for some interaction. If the puppy fails to acknowledge others in the litter or is getting shunned collectively, consulting an expert trainer or a vet can be helpful. Otherwise, the journey from being 4 weeks old to being adoption-ready is a long one, and it starts by accepting a human guardian. From weeks 4 to 5, the puppy is learning to accept a human usually the breeder as his guardian. Both dominant guardian and guiding guardian archetypes work in establishing yourself as the leader, but the dominant frame might box you into less palatable training tactics. German Shepherd puppies are quite intelligent, but a bulk of this cognitive ability is unlocked in two stages. The first is around the five-week mark. This could be the fourth or sixth week, depending on the individual puppy, but it is noticeable when the dog starts getting excited about other dogs. Of course, you need to be on schedule with socialization and carry-walks to notice this. Again, this explains why breeders usually keep the GSD puppies at this stage. Aggression issues can stem from excitement signaling menace. The opposite is true as well. Fortunately, professional breeders expose the dog to other dogs his age at this stage, and he learns to adjust how he shows and perceives excitement, making your life as a new German Shepherd parent much easier. But socializing your German Shepherd happens in stages as well. And of different ages. The wider the variety of people he gets to see and interact with at this stage, the more receptive he will be to people growing up. If your German Shepherd has seen only young people all his life, he might react differently to older ones and vice versa. This also applies to experiences. Exposing your puppy to experiences like car rides and ringing doorbells ensures that he will be calm in normal situations as he grows up. And in addition to getting your German Shepherd acquainted with normal stimuli like bells and travel, you must get him crate trained at this stage. Introducing the crate as a refuge and a secure spot as opposed to jail is a great way to get your GSD puppy to accept the crate. The more you delay this, the harder it becomes to crate-train a German Shepherd. If you want to check how his growth compares to the guidelines, head over to this article, When Do German Shepherds Stop Growing? This also includes a handy growth chart. This is a critical stage because if unchecked, your German Shepherd might end up hurting other dogs or be hurt by them. The watchful dog-parent in you that you were holding back has his chance to shine here. Make sure you keep a close eye on your German Shepherd and how he interacts with any other dogs in the house. The status-measuring step is one even adult dogs take when first interacting with each other. But at this age, dogs engage in prolonged status-measuring inquiry and either establish dominance or accept their subservient spot. You cannot force your German Shepherd to be the alpha in a relationship with another dog. GSDs are very physical, which is fine when two dogs play within the same breed. But if one of your doggos belongs to a relatively fragile lineage, you might want to consider some separation. If you are worried your German Shepherd playing too rough , click the link for some cool tips on how to limit rough play. The easier to walk your GSD is, the more enjoyable it will be for you both. This is better elaborated in my dedicated post on the fun exercises you can do with your German Shepherd puppy. At the same time, his physical energy levels are rising every day, which can be counterproductive as your German Shepherd can get uber-excited about physical activity. Make sure you have him on a no-pull harness instead of a collar-and-leash, so you can get him properly under control without hurting him. You can also see my other recommendations here. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Almost Home Campaign Puppy Developmental Stages and Behaviour To have a well-adjusted and social dog, you need to ensure his needs are met during each phase of development. Building the foundation for a great dog starts with appropriate training at each stage of development and establishing appropriate guidelines so that that your puppy is properly integrated into the family. You will see many behaviour changes during the life stages of your pup. Knowing how to handle your pup through each developmental stage will help to shape your puppy into a lifelong family member. Puppy Developmental Stages The puppy development process covers five distinct stages. However, puppies grow through these stages at their own pace and these timelines can vary. Stage 1: Neonatal Period 0 — 2 weeks This is the first stage of puppy development and begins at birth. At this age, puppies only have the sense of taste and touch and rely totally on their mother. Stage 2: Transitional Period 2 — 4 weeks Sensory development continues with hearing and sense of smell. Puppy teeth start coming through and their eyes will begin to open. Puppies will interact with their litter mates, wag their tails, stand, walk a little and bark. It is vital to understand this stage as most puppies go home to their new parents between 7 — 12 weeks. During this period, changes start to occur rapidly. Between 3- 5 weeks puppies start to become aware of their surroundings and have the ability to develop a relationship with people This is the period where puppies get familiar with the day-to-day noises of a regular household such as TVs, vacuum cleaners, telephones, etc. At this age puppies are just learning to interact with each other and beginning to play. They are also learning their doggie social skills and exploring their ranking status within their pack. Their curiosity is developing, as are their biting skills. Nipping behaviours begin as they practice biting behaviour with their mother and litter mates. At the weeks stage, they will have full use of all their senses and will be ready to go home to their new owners. Bringing your pup home usually between weeks is right in the middle of his socialization period. Therefore, it is vital that you introduce your puppy to as many new dogs, people, objects and surroundings as you can. BUT, make sure you do so in a controlled manner and never put your puppy in a dangerous situation where they can be injured, scared or contract disease. This is a great period to begin crate training, for a variety of reasons. Puppies are old enough to start getting used to being left alone to avoid separation anxiety from developing and are capable of being house-trained. Even though your home is likely puppy proofed, it also saves your possessions. During this phase of development, puppies are developing their reactions to things much more consistently. They are also likely to focus more on different types of people and should be friendly and approachable to strangers. During this time they are also going to continue to practice their biting skills a whole lot more! It is important to learn how to manage this behaviour early on. You may also notice that they are more curious and will probably look to explore their environment more. Be prepared for this and keep your puppy close to you and leashed. Stage 4: Testing Period 3 — 6 months This is the time your puppy starts to test their boundaries within their world. They will test the limits with their owners and other animals. At this age many adult dogs will start to enforce manners. Problematic behaviours can begin to arise in this period. At this age your puppy is going to go through teething and chewing is a common side effect. Make sure he has plenty of chew sticks and toys. Use commercial sprays or gels that dissuade your puppy from chewing your belongings. Try soaking a cloth toy in chicken stock and freezing it if your puppy is experiencing pain while teething. Once frozen, this can be given to your puppy as a chew toy and will help to relieve sore gums. Puppies are usually finished teething by the age of 6 months when the upper fangs canines come in. Your cute little puppy is becoming a teenager and will start producing hormones which may result in changes in behaviour. Dogs go through adolescence much earlier than people; for small breeds, is can be as early as six months old while larger dogs starting at nine or 10 months of age. Adolescence in larger breed dogs continues until they are two or three years old with smaller dogs reaching maturity at about 18 months. Typically the larger the dog, the slower the development. Signs of Puberty in Canines Here are the typical signs to watch out for to tell you that your own puppy has hit puberty: Males.