how much do german shepherd puppies eat a day
We have answers. What's the most interesting thing about Golden Retriever puppies for sale near Hastings? Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular and beloved dog breeds around the world. Their "people-pleasing" personalities, gentle nature, and intelligence are highly sought after traits. What makes them especially unique is their strong loyalty to their owners and family. Goldens are fiercely devoted, obedient, and loyal, often developing close bonds with their families. In addition, Golden Retrievers are very trainable and eager to learn new tricks and commands, making them the perfect dog for families of all ages. Are Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Hastings non-shedding? No, unfortunately Golden Retrievers are considered a moderate to heavy shedding breed. They inherit this trait because their double-coat provides protection from the elements, and they require regular grooming in order to maintain their coat. However, you can take steps to help control the shedding making sure they get regular exercise, brushing their coat times a week, and a healthy diet can all help reduce shedding. Regular grooming also helps dislodge dead hair and dirt and can be an effective tool in controlling shedding. Do Hastings Golden Retriever puppies for sale have special dietary needs? Yes, Golden Retrievers have some special dietary needs that their owners should be aware of. Owing to their size andactivity level, they need a healthy diet that includes more protein and fat than some other breeds. As they are prone to weight gain, controlling their calorie intake is also important. Additionally, Golden Retrievers need adequate fiber to maintain digestive health. Many veterinarians recommend a combination of dry and wet food for their nutritional needs. How can I become the best puppy parent for Golden Retriever puppies in Hastings? Becoming the best puppy parent while you are waiting for your Golden Retriever is achievable. Start by researching the breed and their needs so you're well prepared for when they arrive. Make sure your home is puppy-proof and that you have all the necessary supplies such as food, toys, and puppy-safe cleaning products. Enroll in a puppy training class so your pup can learn the basics of potty training and other commands. Schedule regular vet visits and make sure your pup is up-to-date on all their shots. What sizes do Golden Retrievers for sale in Hastings come in? Golden Retrievers usually range in size from 55 to 75 lbs on average, but some are slightly larger or smaller. It all depends on the individual dog. As puppies, they can be quite small, but will ultimately reach a full-grown size over the span of their first few years of development. Typically, a fully-grown Golden Retriever will range anywhere between 22 and 24 inches in height. While it is not an exact science, generally speaking, males tend to be larger than their female counterparts, and the breed is known for having an athletic build and a heavy coat of fur. How many minutes per day should I walk Golden Retriever puppies near Hastings? Walking your Golden Retriever for at least 30 minutes per day is an important part of their overall mental and physical health and wellbeing. Depending on the age, size, and energy level of your dog, this can be divided up into several short walks or a single, longer one. You can also offer alternate activities, such as playing fetch, to give your dog some more exercise. Are Golden Retrievers in Hastings good with kids? Yes, Golden Retrievers are well known for their kind and gentle nature, and that makes them great companions for children. They are incredibly loyal, patient and tolerant, making them great playmates to children of all ages. That said, it is important to note that to maintain their friendliness, Golden Retrievers require proper socialization and training since puppyhood. Introducing them to other people and animals early on can help ensure they will be well-mannered in years to come. Is training Hastings Golden Retrievers for sale easy? Training a Golden Retriever can be a rewarding experience, but it may require more effort than you are expecting. Although Golden Retrievers are often eager to please and learn, they can be easily distracted and have stubborn streaks. Proper training requires consistency and patience, especially when teaching basic obedience and mastering complex tasks. The best way to get started is by enrolling in training classes and working with a professional trainer this will provide the structure and guidance needed to ensure successful training outcomes. I'm Amil. As you can see, I'm a tall drink of water with charm to boot. My beautiful eyes along with my pouty look will get me everywhere.I've been told. I'm learning a lot as a foster pup and I love this new life of comfort. Foster pup camp is teaching me to walk on a leash, nap on a dog bed, chew on bones and snarf down treats. I am mastering all of these tricks. If you are looking for a walking buddy and you like to walk for exercise, I'm your guy. If you love to hike a lot, I can do that too with my long legs. Lounging on the sofa or zonked out on the floor work for me too. I am up for anything. Here's the skinny.I am a work in progress. My foster parents think I am the bravest boy ever. They say that I am capable of so much more. Do you have experience with training dogs to be their best? Do you know how to help a dog gain even more confidence? Well, then you're the buddy I am looking for right now. Please apply. I will reward you over and over again. They tell me I'm a sweetheart and of course, you know already that I am a handsome devil. What more could you want? Please apply!
Much of this book is about training the German Shepherd, though it is full of theoretical information as well. This book can completely change how you view dogs and raising a puppy. The authors have managed to pack quite a bit of knowledge into this hardback book. It is about more than just training your dog. Chapters include information on playing with your puppy, crate training, raising dogs in an urban area, and the latest developments in canine health. It includes a chapter that talks about just that! If you have to get just one book on training your dog, we recommend this one. It is truly the best overall book for training your German Shepherd. Pros Practical tips and theoretical information Discusses adopting adults and puppies Includes information particularly for urban dwellers Information on canine health and canine behavioral theory Written by authorities in the canine training Cons Too many specific examples and stories for some readers 2. This book goes over how to raise a puppy into a well-adjusted and happy adult dog. It goes over everything you need to know to raise your puppy. It discusses a wide range of topics, including crate training and potty training. For instance, it discusses in length what to ask a breeder before adopting a puppy and vaccination schedules. Socialization is discussed in-depth, which is vital for any book on German Shepherds. It outlines how to teach basic commands, including sit, stay, and come. Leash training is discussed. There are significant sections on exercising and feeding your German Shepherd. Grooming topics like bathing schedules are covered, and there is a section on when to take your dog to the vet and when not to worry about it. Pros Includes discussions on crate training, leash training, and basic commands Discusses what to do before you adopt your puppy Exercise and nutrition information included Grooming and vet topics included Cons May lack the specific information some readers are after 3. The authors are some of the foremost German Shepherd Dog trainers out there and are also the authors of our number one pick , and much of their information pertains specifically to the breed. However, their tips are written in a way that pertains to all dog breeds. This book will help you train your German Shepherd by building a better relationship with them. It is a refined and unique approach to dog training that many reviewers find to be very effective. You can apply the information in this book to both adults and puppies. Some essential topics are covered on top of the usual training information. They discuss choosing a dog for your needs, as well as where to adopt your dog from. Pros Helps you build a relationship with your canine Versatile for a wide variety of dogs Lots of topics covered May be a bit too theoretical for some readers 4. It is pretty straightforward, making it a good option for those who have never trained dogs before. It includes advice specifically about a wide variety of different training topics, including housetraining, verbal commands, and leash training. Step-by-step pictures and instructions are included with each command and training tip. This inclusion may be a bit overkill for some owners, but it can be constructive for those that have never trained a dog before. Pros Provides basic information on most training topics Step-by-step instructions included. A well-detailed book, complete with full-sized color pictures that deal with the different methodologies of German shepherd training as well as digs deep into the different psychological theories behind the methods. Loaded with very specific information on different theories and throws in some great ideas about positive reinforcement techniques. Furthermore, It has an additional bonus in the form of information on the breeding history of German shepherd dogs to help you know where they come from. This makes him more likely to look up to you and follow instructions. All in all, this book is a brilliant opportunity for novice German shepherd enthusiasts to understand the nuances of the deal. Check price at Amazon 2. Your German shepherd puppy month by month As the name suggests, the book takes into account each and every month of the German shepherd growth period, which dates back to the moment it comes out in the litter. It has more information than you will need to understand the best way to raise and train your dog and it is a highly comprehensive book. Since German shepherd pups grow in leaps and bounds, it will answer all the questions you may have in your mind ranging from whether its height and weight are appropriate to its age bracket as well as what and what not to feed him. The book even discusses the behavioral issues of the GSD pup as it hits adolescence and the best way to handle its tantrums. If there is something you want to know about your pup, the book has it and that too categorized month-wise. Check price at Amazon 3. The book goes through the various developmental stages of the German shepherd growth period and brilliantly guides the users through the various ways to initiate socialization, crate training, and behavioral adaptations in the German shepherd dogs. It also talks about the updated behavioral modification techniques in the breed. This is much needed now that more and more German Shepherds are being raised in urban settings. It is a good buy for both first-time and experienced dog owners, as it covers the basics as well as touches on the advanced themes that are currently circulating in the academic circles regarding the German shepherd training requirements. Check price at Amazon 4. German Shepherds for Dummies An easy-to-read book especially for absolute beginners to help them boost their confidence as they embark on a mission to train their newly adopted German shepherd pups. It is written in plain English and concepts have been simplified to help owners who are looking for a quick yet effective dose of information to help them break out of the initial nervousness of nurturing a newly acquired pup. It explains the basics of German shepherd training steps in a lucid manner with a humorous touch. However, it might not be very useful for trainers having a fair amount of knowledge on training German shepherds already. Check price at Amazon 5. The German shepherd dog Terra Nova The German shepherd dog Terra Nova is a complete guide to a degree view of German shepherds that will be a step-by-step guide for you and your entire family in raising the dog. Equipped with extensive chapters on feeding, grooming, and training the dog into a well-behaved adult canine. It also has a detailed chapter on canine health that is reviewed by experienced veterinarians, which suggests dietary plans for the canines as well as discusses the parameters for ensuring their health. The main emphasis of this book is on behavioral problems and how to correct them. Things like separation anxiety , disobedience, and chewing are addressed in great detail. This one is a little longer than most of the others, and so some people might find it harder to read. The language used is mostly common and non-technical, but it will require your full attention. The best thing about this book is the fact that it provides virtually all the information that a German Shepherd owner needs to know. It may not emphasize all subjects equally, but all the important subjects are covered. The author has no verifiable credentials, and only claims to have about five years of experience with German Shepherds. Still, this book seems to have resonated with a lot of people. That suggests that Mr. Daigneault learned quickly and that much of his information is correct. In some ways, this lack of professional candor makes the book more appealing. Everything is written in simple and common speech, making it feel more like a talk with your neighbor. At the very least, the author has produced a book that covers all the most important information in a way that many people enjoy. FAQ Here are a few of the most common questions that we receive on this subject. The simple answer to this question is no. A single book or even a whole shelf of them will not be helpful unless you learn how to apply their lessons in a practical way. At the same time, books can provide you with a lot of helpful information to aid in your practical learning. Dog-related experience is often not as well-documented as other kinds of experience, so you will have to judge by the content alone. You want to make sure that your chosen book covers all the relevant subjects. If there is a lot of generalized statements without any specific info, that is a red flag. A good dog training book should cover as wide a variety of situations as possible, and that is how you can tell that the author has experience. You should also be on the lookout for statements that you know to be false. Some people prefer to zip through a book like this, coming back later to review its lessons. Some others prefer to take their time and fully absorb the lessons of each chapter before moving to the next. In most cases, this is just a matter of personal preference. The only advice we can offer here is to read and learn at a pace that feels natural to you. Unfortunately, these sorts of books are not always written by qualified experts. For this purpose, we want to give you some general information about German Shepherds. This is meant to serve as a comparison point so that you can tell a well-informed author from a poser. As such, we will be limiting ourselves to those facts upon which most experts agree. We can see that a dog of this kind should stand about inches tall if male and inches if female. Other kennel clubs might have slightly different standards, but an expert should at least be within the ballpark. When it comes to weight, the story is very similar. Males should be between pounds while females range from pounds. It is also worth noting that a purebred German Shepherd must have a black nose. Any other color will be disqualified. All-white coloration, cropped ears, floppy ears, and docked tails are also considered to be non-German Shepherd traits. Behavior This factor is a little bit harder to evaluate because it will vary among individuals quite a bit. Still, all German Shepherds tend to exhibit common behavior patterns , and an expert will surely know these patterns. The most common of these is a mixture of fearlessness and calm. This breed is not normally known for aggression, but they are not the kind of dog to slink away in fear when you yell at them, either. The German Shepherd also tends to be a little bit more aloof. It can take a little longer to create a bond of friendship with a German Shepherd , but the effort is well worth making. That brings us to another essential behavioral quality of the German Shepherd: A firm determination to protect their master and pack. The AKC breed standards that we looked at earlier should be helpful again. On the subject of temperament, this breed is supposed to be outgoing and energetic. Timidity or nervousness are not considered to be typical of the breed, and can even cause disqualification at a dog show. Of course, excessive aggression is also a disqualifier. Breed History According to most sources, the German Shepherd dog has existed in Germany for many centuries. By crossing the different breeds of working dogs that were common in the northern and central parts of the country, Von Stephanitz and his peers may have achieved this goal. Technically, the first German Shepherd was a dog named Horand. Stephanitz found this remarkable animal at a dog show and found him to be the perfect example. Horand, then known as Hektor, had the exact mix of intelligence, loyalty , strength, and tenacity that Stephanitz wanted. As such, he was bred to the finest stock including several wolf mixes and produced the breed that we know today. Grooming Grooming helps to make any dog a little happier. The German Shepherd has a double coat, which means that they have two layers of fur. Thankfully, they are still somewhat easy to brush. About 30 minutes to an hour per week is enough to do the job. These dogs tend to shed a lot, and that will make frequent grooming less necessary. One bath every months is sufficient. One task that is very important is nail trimming. Any expert on the breed should mention this task, as it has to be done often. This breed will tend to grow extremely long nails without regular trimming, and that is very uncomfortable for the dog. Ear cleaning is also more important for this breed due to the fact that their ears stand erect. It is easier for dirt and debris to get into those canals, so give them a gentle swab with a Q-tip at grooming time. Best German Shepherd Dog Training Books: Parting Words We hope that this article has given you a better idea about how you can choose the best book for your needs. Still, a little bit of homework can make the choice an easy one. So, which one of these books is the best? We cannot really say. The needs of every reader are different, and everyone has different levels of reading proficiency. As such, we urge you to look carefully and consider what you need from that book. Apart from that, we hope that you will return soon to read more of our work. Digital Marketing Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you decided to make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. It can even be a bit challenging when it comes to an intelligent and high-energy dog breed like the German Shepherd Dog. This is where good dog books come in handy. There are literally hundreds if not thousands of dog books on the market today, and I want to make this list specific to new owners but not limited to the GSD breed. My goal is to give you the best ideas at your disposal. And hopefully, you can pull out any one book from the list to get the answers you may need along the way as your dog grows. This volume is highly recommended for owners and breeders alike. Many vintage books such as this are increasingly scarce and expensive. Yet you can own this volume in an affordable, modern, high-quality edition complete with a specially commissioned new biography of the author. Written by the father of the German Shepherd Dog himself, almost years ago, this book could arguably be the Holy Bible of German Shepherd. Hands down. This book works as an instruction manual for any GSD owner. It is a must for any first-time or even veteran GSD owners. It does exactly what the title suggests — give you everything you need to know about owning a German Shepherd for the first 12 months of puppyhood. The first 12 months of their lives could be the most critical part of all GSD life. They grow so rapidly and there is so much to care for. As every month is a little different, knowing what to expect will make you a much better GSD owner. From puppy-proofing your home, feeding and nutrition, crate training, leash training, housetraining, socialization, adolescence behavior, to vaccination, this book has got you covered. This book is very easy to follow, and it guides you through every step of the way month by month. The author clearly defines the characteristics and temperament of this breed as well as guides you through the stages of puppyhood. This book is packed full of useful information for every German Shepherd owner. Why do we like this book? This book guides you through the stages of puppyhood feeding, potty training, crate training, socializing, etc. If you are out in the market to look for your perfect GSD, this book will give you some handy tips on how and where to find a reputable breeder. This book could be perfect for the first-time dog owner, or someone raising a puppy for the first time. The Monks are the advocates of creating a happy, well-behaved dog. They put a lot of time into their dogs themselves, and they expect their dogs to integrate into their lives in a way like a family member. From the decision to adopt a puppy through the practical steps of choosing the right breed, preparing your home, caring for your new charge, and practicing basic obedience exercises. This is a must-have guide for raising a puppy. This book covers every aspect of puppyhood and how to be a good pet parent to your puppy. If you are looking for free and effective ways to training your GSD, check out our training guide: 6. This book will guide you towards a loving, satisfying life-long relationship with your best friend. This is a good entry-level book to learn from the master. His insight is very helpful the makes this book enjoyable to read. And before he made himself famous by training dogs from celebrities, he had been training wild animals including big cats, bears, primates, wolves, birds of prey, elephants and many more. Next, McMillan provides solutions to common canine behavior problems, including house training issues, door dashing, chewing, barking, and common mealtime misbehaviors. Throughout the book, McMillan explains the importance of building trust, establishing focus and control, and mastering training techniques. The 7 Common Commands could be the best basic training you could give to your perfect pup. Lucky Dog Lessons includes easy-to-follow steps, illustrative examples, tried-and-true tips and tricks, and photographs to demonstrate each technique. How To Speak Dog: Mastering the Art of Dog-Human Communication By Stanley Coren Drawing on substantial research in animal behavior, evolutionary biology, and years of personal experience, Coren demonstrates that the average house dog can understand our language at about the level of a two-year-old human. While the actual conversation of the sort Lassie seemed capable of in Hollywood myth-making remains forever out of reach, Coren shows us that a great deal of real communication is possible beyond the giving and obeying of commands. German Shepherd is one of the most vocal dogs. And this book will let you better understand the cues from their howling, whining and barking. With easy-to-follow tips on how humans can mimic the language dogs use to talk with one another, you will be amazed that it is not that hard to speak dog at all. Sound fictional? Maybe not. How Stella Learned to Talk is part memoir and part how-to guide. It also reveals the techniques Christina used to teach Stella, broken down into simple stages and actionable steps any dog owner can use to start communicating with their pets. If you want to learn more about training working dogs, this is a good place to start. This book gives you clear step-by-step instructions on not only how to train but also detailed information about why the particular training works so well. It is a must for any serious dog owner or trainer alike. Hopefully, with this list of resources can help you along the way from the puppyhood to the adulthood of your beloved GSD. Bon is a dog lover and a blogger. He loves spending time with dogs more than with humans. You will find him training himself for the next marathon when he is not writing.
You are taking on the responsibility for another living thing. However, part of the process is doing the research to make sure the dog you have in mind is a good fit for your lifestyle. This pup is extremely playful. The Boxspring will throw everything into that game of fetch or tug-of-war. The Springer in your pooch has a keen prey drive and, thus, an equally strong wanderlust potential. On the positive side, neither parent breed is much of a nipper or barker. Of course, early socialization is an excellent way to curb any of these bad behaviors before they become a nuisance. The Boxspring needs a strong leader to keep his intensity in check. He just has too much energy, which will make it challenging for these individuals. The ancestry of the boxer goes back thousands of years. The early ancestors of the modern-day Boxer go back to B. Centuries later, the Germans began selectively breeding the breed, which they called the Bullenbeisser. Four German Boxers are the rootstock of the breed in the United States. All three added championships to their honors. They also sired other award-winning Boxers on the show circuit. The English Springer Spaniel has some friends in high places. The breed counts among his admirers Presidents George H. Bush and George W. He also captured the heart of royalty as a pet to Princess Grace. As a hunting dog, the English Springer Spaniel had to think on his feet—all four of them! This pooch is eager to please and will learn your routine quickly. All of these traits make him a delightful pet for the individual or family that has time to devote to his upbringing. Are These Dogs Good for Families? He may even tire out the kids first. This pooch is affectionate with just about everyone. He prefers companionship. Unfortunately, both parent breeds are prone to separation anxiety. This pup needs his people around him. After all, he often hunted with other gundogs in the field. Then, there is the prey drive. If the family cat runs from him, expect an intense chase. That instinct will likely persist, even if he is raised with another pet in the household. Remember that many pups are the product of years of selective breeding for the characteristics that serve him best in his job. We suggest feeding him a commercial food formulated for medium-sized dogs. Puppies grow quickly. The right food has enough calories and nutrients to support this rapid growth. Both the Boxer and English Springer Spaniel have a moderate tendency to gain weight, despite their high energy level. Therefore, use the ingredient on the label as a guide to how much to feed him. Monitor his size and adjust the amount accordingly. He also craves time with you. A daily walk is an excellent way to accomplish both goals—and keep you healthy, too! A dog with his strength and energy needs an owner who can manage him. Luckily, this pup is intelligent and eager to learn new things. We recommend using positive reinforcement instead of harsh reprimands when he is naughty. Both parent breeds are sensitive in that regard. The Boxspring is capable of other tasks because of his intelligence. His affectionate nature makes him a decent choice for a therapy dog or a competitor on the agility circuit of dog shows. This extra training is a great way to bond with your pet. The Boxer is a breeze. The English Springer Spaniel is another story. His long coat means more attention and professional grooming to make him look his best. The same advice applies to his nails. Handle his paws frequently so that he is accustomed to having his feet touched. You should also check his ears occasionally. The long fur of the Springer makes him susceptible to ear infections and mites. That increases the risk of genetic conditions. Both parent breeds are relatively healthy. However, we suggest that you get a dog that has had an Orthopedic Foundation for Animals OFA evaluation for joint problems. Minor Conditions. The Cocker Spaniel is a loving dog and a true bird dog. It has a cheerful disposition and is happy snuggling on the couch with the kids. The resulting Boxer Cocker Spaniel Mix is a medium-sized dog that is both affectionate and cheerful as it is tough and alert. This mixed breed is prone to the diseases inherited from its parent breeds such as eye problems, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, hypothyroidism, primary seborrhea, boxer cardiomyopathy, or hip dysplasia, so make it a point to buy your Cocker Spanixer only from reputable breeders in order to guarantee that you will get a healthy and high-quality puppy. The Husky Cocker Spaniel Mix is largely an unknown mixed breed. Thus one needs to look more closely into its parent breeds in order to get a clearer picture of them. The Siberian Husky is not just a sled-type of dog but also a dog that can escape easily unless the whole area around is properly fenced by the owner. Although not known to be aggressive and is still basically a committed breed, the husky is difficult to train if the owner is not a tough and firm one, so it needs a tough obedience training from an expert. The Cocker Spaniel is an affectionate dog that came from Spain in the s and was either a toy or companion or a hunting dog and is basically more obedient and loyal even to a beginner master. The Husky Cocker Spaniel Mix is once more a mix between an adventurous, high-energy dog and a docile one, and so this mixed designer breed needs tough and firm training in order to get rid of its possible destructive behavior and tendency to escape. Do not get your Corgi Cocker Spaniel puppies from an irresponsible breeder as small, sensitive puppies of its parent breeds should come only from the most reliable and responsible of breeders. The Corgi Cocker Spaniel puppies are prone to overeating when not yet properly trained so one has to watch their diet, while they can also become extremely active. This mixed breed is recognized by the Dog Registry of America Inc. This hybrid dog is also called the Poockerspaniel, Spoodle, Cockapoodle, or the Cockapoo. The Poodle Cocker Spaniel Mix is generally sociable and energetically happy as it loves to be cuddled just like its parent breeds. The Poodle Cocker Spaniel Mix has a broader head than the purebred Poodle and can come in a wide variety of colors that go well with its tight curls. The Poodle Cocker Spaniel Mix does not shed often just like its Poodle, and the good thing is that it is potentially less allergic compared to its parent breeds. This unique designer dog does not have much information about it, but one source says that it is possible that the puppy looks more like either of the purebred parents. Since , the German Shepherd has been known for its ability to patrol a flock of sheep and to be an expert in terms of detection, search and rescue, and other police and military operations. The German Shepherd Cocker Spaniel Mix is an extremely loyal dog based on the qualities of dedication and devotion from the two parent breeds. There is a good chance though that the German Shepherd Cocker Spaniel Mix will suffer from separation anxiety if not given attention for quite some time, as this is a problem with its German Shepherd parent. This hybrid dog is a sweet, well-mannered dog that takes after the love of its parents for cuddling and playing with their owners. The Beagle Cocker Spaniel Mix needs approximately 1. The Bocker is generally friendly and well-behaved but will definitely require a tough owner to train it while it is young, although their being affectionate makes them excellent companions for singles, couples, and the elderly. The Labrador Retriever is sociable and outgoing while it is obedient to its master, and the Cocker Spaniel is very much similar. Thus the mixed breed has a stable temperament. Just avoid rabbits or squirrels that might annoy it or catch its attention. The Cockerdor is between 20 to 70 pounds in weight owing to the wide range of weight difference between its purebred parents. It is, therefore, a small dog that is extra energetic as it takes after the playful nature of both parent breeds. The Chikerspaniel may stand up to larger aggressive dogs just like its parent Chihuahua breed, and may also need extreme supervision when it is with children. Just like its Chihuahua parent, you should take care not to let it play with children under the age of 8, or an injury may result from it. The Chihuahua Cocker Spaniel Mix needs 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise as well as a strict and tough owner to make the dog obey ground rules. The Chowspaniel is another rare mix breed so you will be able to know more about its temperament and other characteristics by delving more into its parent breeds. The Chow Chow is extremely loyal but it can be very independent and aloof. It can also be unreasonably suspicious of strangers. Take your dog to the vet regularly for an eye checkup and for a total medical checkup. The Chow Chow parent breed may suffer from Entropion, an eyelid disease, and the Cocker Spaniel parent breed may also suffer from various eye diseases. The Chowspaniel may not appreciate children that much no matter how cute and cuddly this hybrid dog may seem, so make sure that it is kid-friendly before you can let your kids go near it. This hybrid dog is bred for the purpose of developing a breed that is tough enough for agility and flyball sports. Thus these dogs are intense, tough, and busy. The Border Collie Cocker Spaniel breed is a guaranteed lover of children, people, and families, but it can be sensitive to anything that moves, which include people, children, cats, squirrels, and cats. One should, therefore, take care not to create that much noise in the house, or this mix breed will continually nip, bark, and nudge. It is recommended to purchase Border Collie Cocker Spaniel Mix from a reputable breeder in order to make sure that the puppies are free from hereditary diseases and have sound behavior. The Australian Shepherd Cocker Spaniel Mix is often called Aussie Cocker or Cotralian by many people, and it is basically 20 to 30 lbs heavy and 13 to 18 inches tall. The Australian Shepherd Cocker Spaniel Mix have eyes and a tail that look like those of a cocker but a strong, lean body like that of an Australian Shepherd. The naturally dominant personality of the Australian Shepherd Cocker Spaniel Mix takes after the tendency of the Australian Shepherd to be rough with children. Train your mix breed for socialization at an early age before you let it play with the kids. The Dachshund Cocker Spaniel Mix is an interesting cross between the even-tempered hunting Dachshund and the lovable darling Cocker Spaniel. The Dachshund Cocker Spaniel Mix is generally a sweet, loving dog as it takes after the Cocker Spaniel but, like its parent Dachshund, it can be a hunter as it digs and chases rabbits and squirrels. The Docker can be very shy around people, so it needs to be trained for socialization. Its hunting behavior as a Dachshund may also make it hostile around people and children if left untrained. Thus these eyes often get injured. Take care not to expose your Cocker Pug to anything that might destroy its eyes. It is, therefore, better to keep them as house dogs and not brought outdoors often. The big problem with the Pug Cocker Spaniel Mix is that it is a cross between two dogs that have a tendency to overeat. Thus you must control the tendency of the Pug Cocker to overeat. The American Bulldog was once a working farm dog and a loving family companion, and the Cocker Spaniel is a very loyal and loving dog to the family. Thus the Cockerbull or American Cocker Spaniel is a dog that symbolizes loyalty. The Cockerbull is a dog that is not that easy to train because its American Bulldog parent could be tough although the Cocker Spaniel parent breed is relatively docile and obedient when it comes to training. The Cocker Spaniel parent breed may be a frequent barker, but the Cockerbull hybrid dog does not bark often. The American Bulldog Cocker Spaniel Mix needs constant physical activity for up to 45 minutes every day because of the laid-back nature of the parent breeds. The Shar Peipaniel is very devoted and protective of its owner and the human family that takes care of it, although it can be a bit stubborn without proper training. Train your Shar Pei Cocker Spaniel well using positive reinforcement training in order to keep your children safe around the dog. This hybrid dog can become very strong-willed even around children. The Akita is powerful and courageous and has been considered as the natural guardian of the Japanese royal family. It is a symbol of long life and good health in Japan. This parent breed makes the Akita Cocker Spaniel Mix dominant and tough among people unless it is properly trained. This is because shredding is a common trait of the Akita breed. Always ask an expert to train your Akita Cocker Spaniel Mix so that it will not injure your kids unintentionally. This makes this hybrid dog require tough exercise in order to stay happy all the time. The Blue Spaniel or the Blue Cocker Spaniel has an average lifespan of up to 14 years, a height of up to 20 inches, and could weigh up to 45 pounds. The Blue Heeler Cocker Spaniel hybrid dog has the appearance of a small cattle dog but with features of a Cocker Spaniel especially the ears and coat. Its thick coat will need regular brushing. These moderate shredders need constant grooming and regular clipping around the ears, tail, and head twice a month. The English Bulldog Cocker Spaniel Mix are fearful of strangers just like its Cocker Spaniel parent and are sensitive to cold weather, heat, and humidity in the same way as its English Bulldog parent. The English Bulldog Cocker Spaniel also has a tendency to overeat just like both of its parent breeds, so you must monitor its food intake closely. Keep your English Cocker Spaniel healthy through constant regular exercise because it has a tendency to be lazy. Although the parent Cocker Spaniel is active, the English Bulldog usually lives a sedentary lifestyle and does not want to go out for a walk. This hybrid dog combines the intelligence and efficiency of the Golden Retriever and the cheerful disposition of the Cocker Spaniel. Golden Retriever Cocker Spaniel Mix puppies usually have the appearance of the Golden Retriever parent as seen in the moderately long golden coat, floppy ears, and a generally smaller structure compared to the parent Golden Retriever. The Golden Retriever Cocker Spaniel Mix is one of the friendliest dogs, but you have to seek expert advice or assistance in training the dog for socialization since its high energy could injure you or the kids. The Bernese Mountain Dog Cocker Spaniel Mix is a rare type of breed, so the Internet does not have a wealth of information on it but taking a closer look at both parents should help. It also has the loyalty of the Cocker Spaniel. The important thing to remember here is to make sure you will purchase a Bernese Mountain Dog Cocker Spaniel puppy from a reputable breeder so that it is free from diseases as much as possible. Take your hybrid dog to the veterinarian often as it might have inherited eye problems, hypothyroidism and allergies from the Cocker Spaniel parent. It might also have hip and elbow dysplasia tendencies just like its Bernese Mountain Dog parent. There is not much information about the Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix, but studying its parent breeds would give you valuable insight. The Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix is a family-oriented dog, but it must have acquired the aggressiveness of the Pitbull breed towards other dogs. You must keep it on a leash when walking the dog in public because the Pit Bull tends to start a fight with any dog and they tend to fight to the end. Thus, this hybrid dog may have more food, contact, and inhalant allergies as its natural problems. Always consult your vet for further information because this hybrid dog might be in for other health challenges. It is loyal as much as it is intelligent, while it is easy to please. However, give it positive training reinforcement so that it will not injure young kids. Make sure to train this hybrid dog, or it will continually bark at strangers. The French Bulldog Cocker Spaniel Mix is loving, brave, reliable, and friendly to the human family that owns it. However, you should return the favor by having it regularly checked by the vet for a propensity to deafness, eye problems, skin problems, hip dysplasia, and many more. Even when trained, the French Bulldog Cocker Spaniel may still injure young children unintentionally, thus be firm when commanding it and always supervise young children who play with it. The Shih Tzu Cocker Spaniel Mix Breed is a hybrid dog that does not often bark despite the fact that both its Cocker Spaniel parent is a frequent barker. The Shih Tzu Cocker Spaniel Mix is also extra friendly with people and other dogs because it comes from two parent breeds that are naturally friendly. The Cock-A-Tzu is basically well behaved but if you have to punish it but minimize punishments since it is a sensitive hybrid dog. This hybrid dog lives up to 15 years of age, but you have to make it do regular exercises because it comes from a rather inactive parent Shih Tzu parent breed. This hybrid dog is recognized by the Dog Registry of America Inc. The Doberman Cocker Spaniel Mix is an interesting cross between the highly energetic smooth-coated Doberman and the fluffy coated Cocked Spaniel. There is not much information about this breed online, so it is essential to look more into its parent breeds. The Doberman needs adequate attention and participation in the activities of its human family. Thus the Doberman Cocker Spaniel Mix is an interesting family guardian just like its two parent breeds. You need to have the Doberman Cocker Spaniel Mix trained or, just like its Doberman parent breed, it will assume the alpha role in your household. It is a rare breed, so there is not much information about this hybrid dog online. One should, therefore, look more closely into its parent breeds. The Newfoundland Cocker Spaniel Mix is a medium- to large-sized dog because of its Newfoundland parent, and it seriously needs regular grooming because of the thick coat that both its parent breeds have. Have a regular eye check-up for your Newfoundland Cocker Spaniel Mix because its Newfoundland parent is prone to Cherry Eye while its Cocker Spaniel parent is prone to many eye problems. Your Newfoundland Cocker Spaniel Mix needs plenty of exercises and mental stimulation because its Newfoundland parent needs the same thing. Cocker Spaniel Mix Food Requirements Petite or grand, you want to make sure your dog stays healthy for as long as possible. In order to do so, knowing the difference between the worst dry dog food and best dry dog food is essential. Consider the age of pooch when choosing the right kibble. If your furry pal is still a baby, consult our list of best puppy food brands and if they have already reached their golden years, best senior dry dog food will be the way to go. Cocker Spaniel crosses can result in dogs of all sizes. Picking the right chow according to their stature is crucial in order to provide them with enough nutrients. Test your luck with best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food and see what your pooch prefers. Cancer Colitis 3. This hybrid dog will try to prove itself as independent, which makes it easy for owners to leave it at home alone. A total of 45 minutes separated into multiple times a day will keep its energy levels down. Both of the parent breeds are easy to groom because of their short coats. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. The Poodle Boxer cross is a hyperactive dog. It loves to run full-speed in an open area. It is essential to tire out this hybrid dog before going home to avoid damages inside the house. The Boxer Poodle mix requires at least 3 cups of dog food a day to give it the strength to perform agility tasks. A high protein diet of fish and chicken is also recommendable. This hybrid dog is an intelligent creature. It can serve as watchdogs for families and is also be useful for therapy. The Poodle Boxer cross is a hypoallergenic dog, which makes it a good choice for allergic owners. It requires minimal grooming because it rarely sheds. It is important to start training a German Shepherd Boxer cross at an early age. This dog loves to run and does not sit around for long periods. It responds well to exercises and needs outdoor time and enrichment toys. Despite being an excellent family pet, the Boxer German Shepherd mix requires supervision around children as it might knock over a kid during playtime due to its muscular size. This hybrid dog will likely have a short and thick coat. Owners will find the German Shepherd Boxer mix easy to groom. Both of its parent breeds are common household pets. The Boxer Beagle mix can pick up commands and behavior naturally when adapting to constant training. Harsh treatment may trigger its aggressive response. Owners must be patient with training this crossbreed. The daily food requirement of a Beagle Boxer cross amounts to 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dog food. This hybrid dog is prone to ear infections. Baths and weekly ear cleaning will be beneficial for the Beagle Boxer mix. The Boxer Beagle mix is an active dog that needs an outlet for its energy. It may grow taller than both of its parent breeds. Its weight ranges between 80 to pounds. The Bull Mastiff Boxer cross is a loyal and protective dog. Children within the family will be safe around this crossbreed. The Boxer Bull Mastiff mix requires brushing every other day because it can shed its coat often. It also needs a monthly bath to get rid of the dog odor. Despite its large build, the Bull Mastiff Boxer cross is a sensitive animal that owners must treat nicely. This hybrid dog does not respond well to harsh methods of training. Because it is a big dog, the Bull Mastiff Boxer mix does not do well in apartment living. Houses with a backyard can be the perfect environment for living with this hybrid dog. It is a loyal and energetic pet that loves to please its owners. The Boxer Labrador mix loves to protect its human pack. Its instincts make for a suitable guardian for kids. Boxer Labrador mixes love to take on challenges. Engage them in mental and physical activities to keep improving their intelligence. The Dog Registry of America, Inc. DRA is the only registry service to recognize this hybrid dog. First-time dog owners will have a wonderful time with the Boxer Chihuahua mix. It is a fun and loving family dog that thrives well with children and other animals. Two or three meals a day is enough to keep the Chihuahua Boxer mix healthy. Owners must pay attention to its weight to help it avoid over-eating. This hybrid dog is prone to bloat, a digestive issue that requires strict supervision. The Boxer Chihuahua mix weighs around 45 to 60 pounds, which is closer to its Boxer parent. It can also live up to 10 to 15 years. It also has a lifespan of about 15 years. The Boxer Chow Chow mix has a short and straight coat, which makes it easy for owners to groom. It can shed at times but brushing at least two to three times a week can keep its coat healthy. The Boxer Chow Chow mix rarely barks. It is a quiet dog that likes being around its owners and loves playtime with children. The Chow Chow Boxer cross needs daily exercise to stay in shape. This hybrid dog loves to take trips to the beach and ball or Frisbee fetching. The Border Collie ranks as the most intelligent dog breed in the world, capable of learning and retaining commands in under 10 seconds. Both of its parent breeds carry messages and supplies, as well as helping find injured soldiers, during both World Wars. The Boxer Border Collie mix can stand between 18 to 25 inches high with a weight of about 45 to 80 pounds. It has a medium-sized and muscular body. This hybrid dog requires daily exercise that includes longs walks, running, hiking, and other competitive sports. It is also recommendable to engage it in mental stimulation to improve its superior intelligence. The average daily dog food consumption of the Australian Shepherd Boxer cross is around 2 and three-quarters of a cup to make up for its large and muscular body. It can be destructive if left alone for long periods. The Australian Shepherd Boxer cross requires extensive physical training to keep its energy level down. Owners that are active in sports will have an excellent companion with this crossbreed. The Boxer stands around 21 to 25 inches while the Dachshund has a size of at least 6 inches at the shoulder. The Boxer Dachshund mix is a powerful and robust hybrid. The Boxer Dachshund mix is a rare breed, which makes information about it hard to find. The history of both parent breeds will be helpful for potential owners. A lot of credible breeders and online sellers are available for potential owners to find and adopt a healthy Boxer Pug mix. The Pug Boxer cross will likely inherit the watchdog abilities of the Boxer but will not bark as much as its parent. It is also friendly and affectionate to its owners. Grooming this hybrid dog is easy. It sheds lesser than the Pug breed. Weekly brushing will be enough to keep its coat healthy. The parent breeds have a lifespan of around 11 to 14 years. It is possible that the offspring will live longer than the given data. Both parent breeds are energetic and good with children. The Boxer Cocker Spaniel mix makes for a wonderful pet for families that are active outdoors. There is not a lot of credible information available for the Cocker Spaniel Boxer cross. Its parent breeds have enough date for potential breeders to research on. Boxer The Saint Bernard Boxer cross is playful, active, and gentle. It loves to play with its owners. The Boxer Saint Bernard mix can weigh between 60 to pounds but usually follows the 90 to pounds range of its Saint Bernard parent. Owners must hold off of high impact exercises until the Saint Bernard Boxer cross is at least a year old. This hybrid dog is prone to wobbler syndrome, which gives it a weaker ankle due to its rapid growth and weight gain. The Boxer Saint Bernard mix is easy to groom. It needs weekly brushing and may take its bath only twice a year if kept clean. An untrained Boxer American Bulldog mix can behave like a puppy and reach maturity at a later age than most dogs. Proper and consistent obedience training with positive reinforcement will help it improve its behavior. Both parent breeds are fighting dogs in their early days. Breeders over the years help turn them into working dogs. The Boxer American Bulldog mix can live up to 9 or 12 years. The American Bulldog Boxer mix will likely be a large and muscular dog due to the physical features of its parents. There is a lot of history available on the parent breeds to help owners with research. The Boxer Cane Corso mix promises to be a fun sports companion because of the playfulness of the Boxer and the athleticism of the Cane Corso. The Cane Corso Boxer cross requires a lot of physical exercises to keep it in peak condition. The Boxer Cane Corso mix has a smooth and dense coat. Shampooing and bathing this crossbreed must be done only when necessary to maintain the shine of its coat. The Boxer Shar-Pei mix requires lots of exercises to keep its energy level down. It enjoys regular walks in the park and running games with its owner. This hybrid dog needs weekly brushing to keep its coat healthy. It the dog leans more to the Shar-Pei side, make sure that it is dried thoroughly after a bath to avoid yeast infections. The Shar-Pei Boxer mix will be fine being left alone for long periods, but it loves being around its family. It is playful around kids and will protect them from strangers and unexpected guests. It responds well to obedience lessons and physical obstacles in training. The Blue Heeler Boxer cross is usually healthy. Eye issues are the only major concern for this hybrid dog. The English Bulldog Boxer cross has a below-average life expectancy but keeping it healthy will assure owners that it can live up to 9 to 14 years. It is fun to watch and play with this hybrid dog. Its sense of humor and caring nature makes it a wonderful family pet. The English Bulldog Boxer cross must have two balanced meals every day. Avoid supplying it with extra food to prevent obesity. A protein-rich diet that is given in 2 to 3 balanced meals a day with plenty of fresh water is enough for this hyperactive dog. Owners must make sure that the food quantity matches the exercise the Boxer Golden Retriever mix gets in a day. If healthy and fit, this hybrid dog can live between 10 to 14 years. The Boxer Great Pyrenees mix is a rare breed. There is minimal information available for owners. It is ideal for them to know the history of the parent breeds to get a better understanding of this hybrid dog. Both of the parent breeds have strong protective instincts, making the Great Pyrenees Boxer cross a good watchdog for the family. The Boxer Great Pyrenees mix is an intelligent and independent crossbreed. It does not require constant supervision. Owners must engage it in activities to keep its loyalty to their family. Sixty minutes of daily walks and exercises will keep this hybrid dog busy and healthy. The Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer mix is a loyal and loving dog that needs its owner to be a consistent pack leader. It will be very protective of its human pack against strangers and other dogs. Seek a reputable breeder that has the history papers of its parent breeds. Health issues with the Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer cross usually come up at an older age, which makes it essential for owners to find a trustworthy seller. This hybrid dog is prone to skin allergies. A mild shampoo will suffice when it takes baths. It requires grooming to keep its silky and medium coat shiny and clean. The Boxer Bernese Mountain Dog mix is an excellent choice for families with children. It is playful but needs constant supervision to avoid knocking over kids with its massive frame. This hybrid dog is an obscure breed. Owners will want to take a look at the history of the parent breeds to get more information on how to take care of the Bernese Mountain Dog Boxer cross. This crossbreed is willing to please and loves to get the attention of its owners. It has a height of 20 to 26 inches and can weigh around 50 to 80 pounds. The Pitbull Boxer cross is prone to many health issues such as: Heart disease Cancer Obesity The calm nature of the Boxer may cancel out the aggression of the Pitbull, making their offspring a human-friendly pet. Owners must take this hybrid dog at least twice a day for an hour-long walk outside the house as its regular exercise. This hybrid dog enjoys a few walks every day but does not require much exercise to stay in shape. The French Bulldog Boxer cross eats at least 2 cups of high-quality dog food a day. The Boxer Catahoula mix loves to bark. It may be a nuisance to neighbors. The Catahoula Boxer cross is a child-friendly and loving dog that is very active. It is suitable for owners that love to do activities because of its high energy level. This hybrid dog can live up to 10 to 14 years. The Boxer Shih Tzu mix is a loves being the center of attention. Owners must attend to its needs to avoid letting it go stubborn. There is little information available regarding the Boxer Shih Tzu mix. The Shih Tzu Boxer cross is playful and may become feisty to other pets. Its bold personality will make it up a fighting spirit against larger dogs. The Boxer Doberman mix can stand up to 21 to 25 inches with a weight of around 50 to 70 pounds. This hybrid dog sheds at a moderate amount. Daily brushing will keep its coat healthy. The Boxer Doberman mix is a trending mixed breed because it can inherit the learning abilities of the Boxer and the loyalty and intelligence of the Doberman. Both of its parent breeds have a hard time following commands. The Boxer Newfoundland mix can live up to 8 to 12 years. This hybrid dog is prone to bloating. Owners must keep an eye on its food diet to avoid it from over-eating. The Newfoundland Boxer mix is a rare breed. Boxer Mix Food Requirements No matter the size or the age of your Boxer mix, keeping them healthy is crucial.
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in St. Louis, MO? We have answers. What should I know about French Bulldog puppies for sale near St. French Bulldogs are an increasingly popular breed of small yet sturdy and energetic dogs. They require ample exercise and love to play, but are also content to curl up in a basket, making them an ideal companion for many. As a breed, they tend to bond closely with their human family and are known for their loyalty and intelligence. French Bulldogs are among the most friendly of breeds and have earned a reputation for being low maintenance. A key health requirement for French Bulldogs is proper cooling, as they do not tolerate warm climates well. Are French Bulldog puppies for sale in St. Louis hypoallergenic? French Bulldogs are not considered hypoallergenic, however they do tend to have less dander and shed less than other breeds, making them a better choice for people with mild allergies. Even though they are less likely to cause an allergic reaction, there is still a chance that even French Bulldogs can produce enough dander and allergens to bother people with severe allergies. It's always important to remember that the only way to know for sure if a particular breed will cause an allergy flareup is to spend time with one and observe how you react. Do St. Louis French Bulldog puppies for sale have special dietary needs? Yes, French Bulldogs have unique dietary needs. Unlike other breeds, they are more prone to suffer from some health issues, such as overheating and digestive problems. Therefore, they might require a special diet that keeps their body temperature down and improves their overall gut health. It's important to provide your Frenchie with high quality food that includes a balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. It's best to avoid foods that are high in fat as these can lead to obesity and various other health problems. Do French Bulldog puppies in St. Louis have any kind of special requirements? Yes, French Bulldogs do have certain needs that should be taken into account. They require daily exercise, proper nutrition, regular visits to the vet, routine brushing, and a combination of mental and physical stimulation. Additionally, due to their short faces and breathing difficulties, French Bulldogs should not participate in strenuous exercise for long periods of time. They are also prone to overheating, so it's important to make sure they are in a cool, comfortable environment. How fast do French Bulldogs for sale in St. Louis grow? It is difficult to predict how big your French Bulldog puppy will be when they reach adulthood as there are many factors that go into determining a pup's adult size, including nutrition and genetics. On average, an adult French Bulldog is inches tall and weighs pounds. However, some may be on the smaller end while others could be above or below these estimates. Generally, males tend to be larger than females, so it may be easier to get a more accurate estimation of your puppy's adult size if you know the gender. How many minutes per day should I walk French Bulldog puppies near St. The amount of exercise you should give your French Bulldog depends on its age, breed, and individual energy levels. A healthy French Bulldog needs around 30 minutes of exercise per day. This could include walking, playtime, or activities like fetch, fetch-and-release, and obstacle courses. Aim to split the exercise into two minute sessions. This ensures that your dog is receiving adequate exercise while also avoiding fatigue. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that the intensity of the exercise should match your dog's energy level. Are French Bulldogs in St. Louis good family dogs? French Bulldogs are ideal family pets, as they are bred to be loving and affectionate companions. They are loyal, gentle, and enjoy playing with children, as well as being protective of their families. French Bulldogs are also suitable for apartment living due to their small size, and they require minimal exercise, making them an ideal breed for city living. They are intelligent and easily trainable, so they make excellent companions for novice owners. Add to this their attractive and unique physical appearance, and it's easy to see why the French Bulldog is so popular for families. How do I train my St. Louis French Bulldogs for sale? Training your French Bulldog can be a rewarding and fun experience when approached with the right mindset. It's important to remember to be consistent, patient, and to always implement positive reinforcement techniques. Begin by teaching your French Bulldog basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down, using treats as a reward for good behavior. Encourage your pet to obey these training sessions by praising them for doing the right thing. As they get used to responding to the basic commands, increase the difficulty of each lesson by adding distractions and increased distances. More French Bulldog Puppies for sale near St. Louis, MO. 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.
For a dog to qualify as a German shepherd labrador mix, its parents must be a purebred Labrador and a purebred German shepherd. Parent Breeds This breed is a crossbreed between German shepherd and Labrador retriever parents. As these parent breeds are both large dogs with similar appearances, the resulting mix displays similar looks and personality traits. German Shepherd The German shepherd, or Alsatian, is a large, black-and-tan-colored dog hailing from Germany in the late s. This large breed is good with children and is best suited to active families. Labrador Retriever The Labrador retriever is a large British dog with cream, tan, or black coloring. This friendly, affectionate dog breed was developed from fishing dogs imported to the UK from Newfoundland in the s. Lifespan The German shepherd Labrador mix lives for 10—12 years. Healthy, active dogs that eat nutritious foods and live stress-free lifestyles are likely to live longer. German Shepherd Lab Mix Appearance German shepherd lab mixes are large dogs with medium-dense, short-to-medium-length fur. The dogs are usually black, brown, tan, or a combination of several colors. Height and Weight German shepherd lab mixes are considered large dogs, with a height at the withers of 20—27 inches, and a weight of 75—95 pounds. The size and weight of the dog depend on which parent the mix takes after most — German shepherds are taller and heavier than Labrador retrievers. Colors German shepherd lab mixes are typically black, brown, or tan. Patches of white are common on the neck and muzzle. Blue and red are uncommon colors for a labrashepherd. Occasionally, labrashepherds are all-black, all-brown, or all-cream, resembling the Labrador retriever. Coat The German shepherd lab mix has a medium-dense, double coat that sheds frequently. The outer layer of the coat is long and wiry, and the inner coat is short, thick, and soft. The coat comes in a variety of colors, and the undercoat is a lighter shade than the outer coat. Personality and Temperament German shepherd lab mixes have the combined temperament of the watchful German shepherd and the easygoing Labrador retriever. According to the American Kennel Club temperament guide , Labradors are eager to please, adaptable, outgoing, and intelligent. Meanwhile, German shepherds are fearless, confident, eager, and alert. German shepherds are known to be aloof with strangers, and Labradors suffer from separation anxiety. These two traits are often passed on to the German shepherd lab mix. The confident, loyal, eager nature of the labrashepherd makes it a loyal family pet. Barking The German shepherd lab mix has a low barking tendency. A properly-trained dog will only bark to alert its owners of a potential threat. Keeping a labrashepherd entertained with daily walks and playtime should prevent the dog from barking out of boredom. German Shepherd Lab Mix Care Caring for a German shepherd lab mix is easy as long as you have the budget and the energy to look after a big dog. Labrashepherds need daily long walks, a nutritious diet, and plenty of mental stimulation to live happy, healthy lives. Food Needs Provide your German shepherd lab mix with a high-protein diet suitable for large, high-energy dogs. On average, German shepherd lab mixes need about 3 cups of kibble per day. Use a slicker brush and brush in the direction of hair growth, applying fine strokes that remove dead hairs and mats. Exercise Needs The German shepherd lab mix is an energetic breed that needs at least one hour of daily exercise, divided into two or more walks. Ideally, give your labrashepherd access to your backyard throughout the day between walks to allow your dog to run around and let out energy. Mental Needs Provide at least 30 minutes of daily mental stimulation to keep your German shepherd lab mix happy and satisfied. The breed is intelligent and enjoys playing hide-and-seek, fetch games, and puzzle games with food release toys. Common Health Concerns German shepherd lab mixes inherit some of the common health issues affecting their parent breeds. Obesity Like Labrador retrievers, labrashepherds are prone to overeating and obesity. Lab results have found that Labradors are missing all or part of the POMC gene, which senses body fat storage and regulates appetite. Give this mix plenty of exercise to prevent weight gain. Skin Allergies German shepherd lab mixes are sensitive to mites, dust, pollen, and chemicals, which cause itchy skin and skin allergies. Redness, rashes, persistent itching, infections especially around the ears , and hair loss are all common signs of skin allergies in dogs. Treatment for skin allergies includes diet changes, avoiding triggers, and medication to reduce itching. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a common hereditary condition in large dog breeds, including the Labrador retriever and the German shepherd. The condition causes the hip ball and socket to deteriorate and lose function. This issue commonly affects overweight or under-exercised dogs. Symptoms of hip dysplasia in dogs include decreased range of motion in the back legs, decreased activity, lameness, and limping. The condition is treated with physical therapy, weight reduction, and surgery. Consistent training is important for this breed, so train your dog for at least 15 minutes every day. Start training your puppy from the age of eight weeks old. To prevent this, train your dog during or after a long walk. While the breed mix is affordable to buy, the expense of feeding a large dog is high. The upfront cost of a German shepherd lab mix depends on whether you buy from a reader or adopt the dog from a shelter. Factors that affect the cost of the dog are age, coloring, and whether the dog is adopted or bought from a breeder. Dogs with rare coat colors are more expensive than dogs with common colors. Additional, optional costs are dog sitting and boarding, professional dog grooming, and dog training classes. The German shepherd lab mix is an affectionate, loyal, energetic dog that makes a great family pet. However, this dog has traits that make it unsuitable for some people and lifestyles. Labrashepherds are high-energy dogs that are ideal for active, outdoorsy households. German shepherd lab mixes are responsive to training if proper boundaries are established, so this mix is best suited to people who have the time to train the dogs from an early age. Check out these other hybrid dog breeds: German Shepherd Mixes. Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. 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. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Sheprador Highlights The German Sheprador is a mixed breed dog. The main colors of German Shepradors are black, white, red, cream, blue, and grey. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. Many German Shepradors absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. German Sheprador History The German Sheprador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing German Shepherds and Labradors in North America, possibly in the s. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create German Shepradors as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the German Sheprador got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up German Sheprador rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Labrador rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. German Sheprador Size As the German Sheprador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Labrador parents, you can expect the German Sheprador to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. German Sheprador Personality German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their German Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Labrador Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. German Shepradors like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reenforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepradors are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour long walk per day with several shorter walks mixed in. Hiking and other adventurous activities are also recommended. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. German Sheprador Feeding An ideal German Sheprador diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors. Like all dogs, however, German Shepradors need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever. German Sheprador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for German Shepradors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. There is no way to find out if your puppy will develop any of these conditions. All you can do is to take care of your dog properly to prevent some of these severe medical conditions. Your growing dog should maintain a healthy weight because extra weight can be an additional weight on its spine. The ideal dog nutrition will also depend on any nutritional needs of your dog. If you are training your dog, never give treats as a reward. This encourages obesity and will only cause more problems for your dog. Here are top dog food brands that your German Shepherd Lab will surely love. Its core ingredients include ground brown rice, lamb meal, white rice, and chicken. It is all natural and contains no preservatives. Even a picky puppy will surely love this dog food. Precise Holistic Complete Large Breed Adult Formula Precise Holistic contains chicken, brown rice, chicken fat, and oatmeal and is considered the best organic dog food for large dogs. This comes with extra calcium and phosphorus needed by dogs to achieve its full, large size. This is a portion of irresistible dog food for large breed dogs such as your Lab German Shepherd mix. Just like any other dog, never give your German Shepherd Lab the following human food. Not all human food is safe for dogs. Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Grapes or raisins Salty foods and junk food Chocolate, coffee, or tea Onions, chives, and garlic If you want your dog to grow strong and healthy, you need to give them the best care in the world. So, start with their nutrition! That means you need to stay away from the worst dry dog food, and try out the best dry dog food instead. Your hairy friend comes from different parents and therefore you can experiment with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Our puppy friends need nutrition that is full of proteins and easy to digest. You can look for some ideas in the best puppy food brands. Senior dogs, in their grandpa style, need food which contains moderate protein levels as in the best senior dry dog food. Because of this, you need to spend ample time in a day to exercise and to walk this dog otherwise; it can develop destructive behavior. Play with your dog regularly to develop a strong bond with your pet. Remember that this dog will love to swim because of its Labrador Retriever lineage. A local dog pool or a pond would work great with your dog. If you have a large yard, an old, large vat will work great just for him to play and cool off. All dogs love to fetch and play Frisbee. Use other kinds of toys like large ropes so you can play pulling games. Use a giant ball for fetches like an old football or a tennis ball. Here are a few ideas 1. This is available in six sizes so you will surely find the best size for your medium to large-sized Lab German Shepherd mix. It is indestructible so your dog will undoubtedly spend hours playing with it. It is made from durable materials that will never break or chip. This is indestructible, and your dog will surely love to play with this over and over again. It is soft but is made to be indestructible. Your pet will surely love to chew on this soft bone. This will be his favorite toy in no time. Lab German Shepherd Mix Training The Lab crossed with a German Shepherd is a brilliant dog, but it may need more than simple traditional training techniques to train this dog. The following tricks will help you make your dog obey you in no time. The Clicker Technique Learn how to train your dog using a clicker. Press this, and you will hear an audible click, a sound that dog loves very much. The clicker may be used in all kinds of tricks, but the most common is for positive reinforcement. Just click the clicker when your dog can follow the trick and then click again if you want to repeat the behavior. Invest in a good clicker which is available in most pet stores online. This can contribute to obesity and other health problems related to being overweight. Reward good behavior by patting your dog, playing with him or giving him a good scratch. Tell your dog what a good dog he is and combines this with a lot of pats as reinforcement. Every dog takes his time so you must be patient. His bed should at the same place where he found it the first time while his food bowls should also be in the same area. Consistency is the key to training dogs important stuff. Also, consider talking to everyone at home regarding your rules and commands to reinforce consistency in training your dog. Train Your Dog In A Familiar Environment Dogs like the Lab are easily distracted; therefore you must train your pup in a quiet and familiar environment first before you take him out for further training. Start inside a quiet room with only you and him. You can train him outdoors once he is less distracted to noise and the presence of other pets and people. You may also opt for professional training for your Lab German Shepherd mix dog if you want your pup to grow up and become a service dog or police dog. German Shepherd Lab Mix and Families Lab German Shepherds can be great family dogs because these dogs love to be with their masters and to please them every way they can. These are patient with children and will never roughhouse or bite. They can even tolerate toddlers and very intense games like dress up and role play games. Lab German Shepherd mix dogs will love to be with other pets and even other dogs. They are not domineering and will never cause a fight. The Lab German Shepherd mix may become anti-social and may become aggressive with people or other dogs when they are not introduced to people and other pets early on. Your dog should be trained first and exposed to other dogs and people to prevent this untoward behavior. German Shepherd Lab mix puppies German Shepherd Lab mix dogs are a combination of energetic friendliness and natural protection. As well trained adults they have the potential to make great herding, hunting, retrieving, therapy, service or pet dogs. German Shepherd Lab mixes are affectionate with their family, but need plenty of exercise, shed heavily, and can be destructive if left alone for long periods. That is, they have one parent of each pedigree. So there is huge variation in how they look, and no standard appearance. Some have the telltale muzzle and tall ears of the German Shepherd, others more resemble a Labrador. The color of their coat will depend on the coloring of their parents. For example, a black Lab German Shepherd mix is likely to have a dark coat, and a German Shepherd yellow Lab mix is likely to have a mid-toned coat. There are even arresting-looking white German Shepherd Lab crosses. An ultra-warm undercoat and a coarse outer coat to protect them from the elements as they work outdoors. This is because the gene for long coats is recessive and very unusual among Labs. Gathering up their lost hair will be a never-ending task! A good vacuum cleaner is essential. This might be reason enough to choose a different crossbreed if you have a busy family or someone with allergies in the home. German Shepherds are large dogs. They stand 22 — 26 inches tall at their shoulder blades, and weigh 49 — 88 pounds. Meanwhile, Labs are a medium sized breed, 22 — 25 inches tall at their shoulders, and 55 — 80 pounds on the scales. A Labrador German shepherd mix could be as petite as their smallest parent or as big as their largest parent. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could weigh anything from 55 pounds to 80 pounds. As usual, the lower end of the range is typically made up of female dogs, and the top end is dominated by the boys. They love to interact with people, show their affection, and get on well with children. Also, the German Shepherd is confident, courageous and smart. They are loyal and full of life. Furthermore, Labradors and German Shepherds are both fast learners and eager to please. German Shepherds in particular need productive ways to channel their intelligence, or they will get into mischief to stave off boredom. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could inherit any combination of the traits of their parents, which is why meeting both parents before committing to bringing home a puppy is so important. Socialization Socialization is the process of making a dog comfortable with other animals, people, places and activities. Even for breeds that are known to be friendly and easy-going, like Labradors, socialization is very important. German Shepherd Lab mixes are likely to inherit a love of people and company from both sides of their family tree. But socializing them properly as puppies will be vital to give them the confidence they need in meeting new people. German Shepherds, despite their great loyalty to their family, can be wary of strangers. So thorough socialization from puppyhood is essential, even for a mix. For instance, Socialization can involve having new people call over to the house regularly so your pup gets used to new faces and voices. It can also involve introducing your puppy to new dogs, cats, children and other animals so that they do not become fearful or territorial. A young dog in good health could require even more. They will also need human company for much of the day, and training to keep those big brains from getting bored. They are working dogs at heart. Highly motivated to learn and impress you with their ability to follow instructions. Like with any dog, training them is an ongoing commitment that lasts a lifetime. But with your ultra smart dog it should be a satisfying and rewarding one. German Shepherd and Labrador Health Magnification of health problems in pedigree dog breeds has become a well-documented problem. Labrador Health One of the biggest health problems facing Labradors today is hip and elbow dysplasia — looseness in the joints that eventually leads to painful arthritis. Another is progressive retinal atrophy, a gradual failure of the retina at the back of their eyes that can ultimately leave them blind. Also, Labs are also notoriously greedy, and prone to obesity if their penchant for snacking is indulged too often. Another less serious but common issue in Labs is ear infections. These are easily treated but may require veterinary care and frequent inspections. In addition, they are more than usually prone to: Gastrointestinal diseases.
Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. Bring some treats, a toy that your German Shepherd loves and a long leash if you have one. Start by rewarding it for sitting or laying down on your command. Wait for a fraction of a second and then reward it for keeping its attention on you. Continue until you can get it to keep its attention on you for at least 5 seconds. Now repeat the process each time going back a little bit further and increasing the duration that you wait before going back to reward it. Start by telling it to stay, squeaking or waving the toy and then rewarding it for not going for the toy. Now do it again but put the toy in front of it and reward it for not going for the toy. Then add distance. Start by staying close to your German Shepherd and then go away further. You can watch the video below to see, clearly, how it is done. Why teach your German Shepherd to stay Teaching your German Shepherd to stay when you tell it to will help you in a number of ways. Below I will mention some of the benefits that it can provide. This will make things much easier for you and your dog will likely make a much better impression on them. This will help the experience to go much more smoothly and will help it to be a less stressful experience for you and the dog. For example, you can get it to stay before giving it food in the mornings. This can help to reduce bad behavior. This will help you to maintain a good relationship with your German Shepherd and it will help you to keep it safe. The method being used here is positive reinforcement training and it works best by rewarding small steps towards the final goal. Start in an easier environment When you first start training your German Shepherd to stay it would be a lot easier to start out in an environment where there are not many distractions. After you can get it to stay in an environment where there are not many distractions then you can start to train it again in tougher environments. An easy way to regularly teach your German Shepherd to stay would be to make it stay before letting it eat food, but be sure to supplement it with some training in different scenarios. Related content How to teach a German Shepherd to come? To teach your German Shepherd to come it will be necessary to have taught it to stay first. How to teach your German Shepherd Down? If you want a happy and obedient German Shepherd, this is one of the best online dog training programs available right now. You can get the first month free using This link.
We can proudly boast that all of our dogs and puppies come from only the very best and proven bloodlines in the world. Each one of our males and females is health tested, titled, and has at least one parent that has earned a VA1 title Excellent Select, 1st place. The competition for VA is fierce and very few dogs attain this momentous achievement. Our Dogs Titles: So, what does all of this mean and why should it matter to a pet buyer? Working titles focus on the structural soundness and ability to demonstrate trainability and reliability in obedience, but more importantly, temperament is evaluated. Show titles provide a valuable tool for ensuring that the breed standard is followed. This is an in-depth evaluation that records the qualities and shortcomings of the dog. The temperament, conformation, courage, and function are reported. Temperament and character, along with physical and mental soundness play an enormous role in selectively choosing which dogs are breeding prospects. The German Shepherd is an athletic, loyal, self-assured, attentive, and intelligent dog. This applies to both competition dogs and family pets. Purchasing a puppy from titled parents ensures that the dogs being bred have passed vigorous testing and several judges along the way oversaw the process. Following this standard eliminates a biased breeder from breeding indiscriminately and encourages the goal to be producing the best puppies possible. At Centennial German Shepherds, meticulous planning and an abundance of thought go into producing every litter of puppies. Striving for excellence gives breeders credibility and provides the potential buyer with absolute assurance that their puppy is a product of deliberate and quality mating. Capo and our beautiful granddaughter, Shannon The meaning of Our New Kennel Name After working, showing, and breeding German Shepherds for over 25 years, we decided it was time to create a new kennel name and logo to signify our presence in Colorado the Centennial State combined with our Italian and Estonian foundation dogs. Centennial GSD chose to use the head of our gorgeous female Gucci and combine the American and Italian flags across her face to signify our team concept. Additionally, we blended the American and Estonian flags across our impressive male import's face to represent the Margman presence at Centennial. Our puppies are raised inside of our home where we can interact with them from birth until the day they leave with their new families. We assess them, take notes, photos, and videos, and create a detailed log about each puppy so that we can explain their individual characteristics and personalities as clearly as possible to anyone who is inquiring. We evaluate each puppy's growth and development, along with littermate interactions and responses to "daily life" situations on a full-time basis. Once the puppies are mobile, they are introduced to toys and small obstacles which are intended to spark curiosity and promote problem-solving and confidence. We understand that visiting the puppies or looking at photos is difficult, as both are only small snapshots of time in the rapidly changing life of a growing puppy. Visitors might experience the litter just before or after a nap, eating, playing, or any other event or activity that may skew the true personality of the puppy, and relying on a few minutes or even hours to make a decision can be overwhelming. For these reasons, frequent communication with prospective families from birth to placement is crucial. By clearly conveying expectations, we are able to assist in the selection process to ensure happiness and success for both the puppy and the individual families welcoming the youngster into their new home. Centennial GSD works hard at producing the finest German Shepherd Dogs through methodically and meticulously scrutinizing compatible bloodlines and pedigrees to ensure each breeding results in producing the best litter of puppies possible. Combining specific lines or avoiding lines that have genetic faults is important as we always have the betterment of the breed in mind. This is done by carefully choosing a mating pair that compliment one another by enhancing positive qualities and making an effort to reduce any faults known in one or both bloodlines. Our foundation dogs and the dogs we use for breeding trace back to the best Italian, Estonian, and German bloodlines. We seek out dogs with a geographically diverse gene pool while also studying line breeding to keep the integrity of the breed intact. By doing this, we reduce the risks associated with more closely related dogs. Our breeding dogs have certified hips and elbows, have been tested for DM, and are titled; ensuring that they are healthy both physically and mentally. None of the dogs in our breeding program and many generations back have joint or known hereditary issues and all of the dogs possess stable and wonderful temperaments. At Centennial quality over quantity always comes first. We stay in touch with our families after the sale of our German Shepherd puppies, whether it be for help with a question or just a friendly email to check-in. I sold several puppies almost two decades ago both out of state and overseas and have been fortunate enough to form beautiful friendships with many of those people that will last a lifetime. We take pride in our Colorado German Shepherds. Our goal is to produce healthy and beautiful German Shepherd puppies that win in the show ring, excel as working dogs, succeed as therapy or service dogs, and most importantly, flourish as loving family companions and guardians. I traveled to Estonia to pick up my female puppy Briatore Nordica, and while I was there I met another puppy her half-brother named Margman Othello. He was a gorgeous and friendly 7 month old sable youngster. Both puppies shared the same father, the magnificent multiple VA Margman Torsten. I was immediately smitten and consequently brought both back with me to Colorado. I also had the honor and pleasure of hosting Torsten, his owner, and his breeder at my home when they traveled to the United States for the first time after a Sieger Show. A few years later I imported another Margman female black and red who was bred to Torsten. Her puppies were wonderful and she enjoyed a nice life in Colorado. By this time Margman had become a household name and known for quality German Shepherds around the world. We had lovely puppies; a mix of sable and black and red, both long and short coats. It was then that I began my great love for the long haired German Shepherd. Rio was phenomenal in the show ring, he earned his SchH3 title, placed V1, and produced puppies that achieved the same and other working titles. He was a gentleman in the house and had a flawless character which he passed down to his puppies time and time again. His puppies excelled as therapy dogs, service dogs, and as healthy and loving family dogs. Rio was intelligent, possessed a solid temperament, and was stunning to look at. My beloved Rio was by far one of the best dogs I have ever had the privilege of owning and set the bar high for our future dogs. Now, many years later, I have once again imported a Margman dog; an impressive male to show, breed, and enjoy as a perfect companion dog. We look forward to combining the lines again and producing the best puppies possible. Expanding the gene pool while still staying true to the standard is our goal with future litters. Margman Dacapo is magnificent; an absolute dream dog. In we imported our first Margman long coat, a deeply pigmented black and red girl. Margit has bettered the breed by thinking outside of the box. Her sable and black dogs are the absolute best and she has also produced top long coats along with her phenomenal black and red dogs. She has combined strong females with the correct stud dogs to produce some of the best puppies in the world. She is devoted to her dogs and the future of the German Shepherd Dog. Her dedication is obvious, and the result has been and remains to be dogs that possess beauty, working ability, and outstanding character. Her vision is clear, her dedication is steadfast, and he loves the dogs so her goals are always set with the future in mind. Puppies are here, they are healthy and beautiful!!!!! Contact us for more info and to reserve your next best friend!! Our German Shepherds are our treasured family pets. If they are truly superb examples of their breed, and pass all their health checks, we will breed them. The puppies are carefully whelped and raised in our home. Our entire emphasis when breeding is temperament and health. Because of the extreme popularity of the German Shepherd breed, there are now several different types being bred, for very specific purposes. We strongly believe that there is a need and a place for all of them! However, in our opinion, there is nothing better than a well-bred, quality, German Shepherd, and nothing worse, or potentially more dangerous, than a poorly bred one, or one placed in the wrong environment for the wrong reason. Please do your homework; diligently research the type of German Shepherd that best suits your needs and lifestyle, before purchasing one. A puppy purchase should be a lifetime commitment! We cannot stress enough, how important temperament is in all dogs, and especially in the German Shepherd. They must be properly socialized and handled with care to insure that they have the best possible chance to be a well-adjusted adult. However, all the training in the world cannot change the genetic makeup of any living thing. Proper breeding is crucial! We breed German Shepherds, both short and long coated, who adhere to the AKC Standards for the breed, and frequently, after careful research, will try to incorporate an outcross to a working dog that has VA rated, Schutzhund trained dogs, in its pedigree. We have personal hands on knowledge of most of the dogs in our pedigrees, and have had many of them living in our homes with us, for the past nine generations. In our opinion, there is no better way to ensure that the puppies you produce have the best possible chance of a loving stable temperament, and good health. If this is what you are looking for, please feel free to give us a call, as we frequently have German Shepherd puppies available. If you are looking for a more specialized type of German Shepherd puppy, call us. We would be happy to assist you in finding your new best friend any way we can! Current Litter. We are a family-owned, professional German shepherd breeder located in beautiful Larkspur, Colorado. Our dogs in our breeding program come with clear-in-the head character, safe nature, and stable nerves. We welcome your visit to our kennels in Douglas County, Colorado. We believe in our German shepherd puppies breeding program, you should too! Our kennels in Larkspur, Colorado, we breed German Shepherd Puppies with world-class parents, top working, show line pedigrees. Confident, self-assured puppies bred for families. We are confident in our purebred German Shepherd puppies; you will be too. Click Here Working line German Shepherds Our working German Shepherds with full working titles are bred with focus and the ability to work, eagerness to learn and accomplish the given role they were originally bred for. Clear in the head, safe nature, and stable nerves to function in any environment with courage, intelligent and stability to exceed your expectations. The most sought after world-class and world champion pedigrees in the world! This is the best puppies you can get, unmatched in every aspect of the top working show line German Shepherds. Click Here Trained German shepherds Our trained puppies include potty and crate training, socialization skills within a family home environment including other animals, cats and dogs. Object orientation in building confident, self-assurd puppies with motivation to perform. Our puppies live with our families, our children, interacting daily in our homes. Click Here German Shepherds Buying an older puppy or a young adult trained German Shepherds can be risky and could end with disastrous results. Protection plus Love!!! We are a small "Mom and Pop", breeder of top quality, working line, German Shepherds. Established in , we are located in the very center of the state of Colorado in the Rocky mountains. Licensed, and AKC inspected and approved facility. Our goal is to breed Dogs who are top quality, and affordable. Beautiful, healthy, dogs that have stable temperaments. All our dogs hips and elbows have been checked, and passed by the OFA. We do genetic testing to insure none of our puppies will develop Degenerative Myelopathy detailed information regarding DM at the bottom of our "Family Comments Gallery" page. The medical documentation paperwork is available for viewing when you come visit to see our dogs or puppies. We breed for black and tan, black and red, sable, black and bi-color puppies. Mostly we have short coat dogs, but do produce limited numbers of long coat pups. Our dogs are predominantly Czech and German working lines. Trained dogs are a positive addition to the lives of their families. These pups can vary in drives and excitability levels but all are working dogs, capable of doing a job suited to their individual drive levels. We try to make it a top priority to match the right puppy to the right family. Our dogs bloodlines are versatile. We breed puppies who could excel in Search and Rescue, Schutzhund, French Ring or Agility, or be great pets and companions. We breed straighter back, working line dogs.
I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Free Bulldog Puppy Starter Kit! The muzzle should be broad with wide-open nostrils moderate in length approximately 2. The lips should be full with red or reddish brown pigmentation; some pink allowed but not preferred. The chin is well defined and should be even to or slightly overlapping the upper lip but not cover it, its length and width should be proportionate to the overall head side. Nose color must be red or reddish brown pigmentation only. Cosmetic Faults: Pink, dudley, or grizzle colors will occur but are considered cosmetic faults. Including; black, grey, blue or albinism. The Red-Tiger Bulldog has a complete set of medium to large white teeth and should not be visible when mouth is closed. A tight undershot reverse scissors preferred. Lips are moderately thick; Red or Reddish Brown pigmentation lining the lips; with some pink allowed. Note: Red-Tiger Bulldogs are a working breed and should not be penalized for broken or missing teeth. Faults: Small teeth. Level or scissor bite. Disqualification: Parrot mouth or closed mouth with visible teeth, Overshot or wry mouth. Red-Tiger Bulldogs eyes should be medium-sized and almond or round-shaped. They should be well set in and moderately to widely set apart. Lighter eye color is a must. The haw should not be visible. When both eyes are blue in the Red-Tiger Bulldog breed this is called candy eyed and is allowable and bery desirable. Serious faults are crossed or non-symmetrical eyes. Color: lighter eye color is a must. The ears should be set high on the head, medium in size and are preferred cropped. This breed must be cropped when in the show ring. None cropped or natural ears are none show-able. With exceptions given in countries where cropping and docking are illegal. Outside the show ring, they may be drop, semi-prick, or rose when natural. Faults in the ears are hound ears and bat ears. The Red-Tiger Bulldog only comes in varying shades of red or reddish brown-brindle, including, red brindle, chocolate brindle, liver brindle and cinnamon-brindle. A very moderate roach is expectable but not encouraged. The shoulder of a RTB, like the pads of a NFL running back leads the dog into and through the fray of opposition with power, while serving as protection against any excessive contact. The shoulder must appear conditioned, and massive, it should display each of the three parts of the triceps muscle during movement and the deltoids should appear as two moderate to prominent cords traveling from the triceps up into the wither and neck region. The chest of a RTB should appear to be carried proudly and give the impression of a gladiators shield or breastplate leading him into battle. The forearm should appear heavily padded with muscle. The forearm although not having massive muscle, should still display moderate depth and separation between the many muscle groups of this area. The forearm should be tight. It should be very firm to the touch do to the padded muscle aside from the hardness of the bone. The forearm should reveal definition when standing, when seated and must exhibit burst of striation during movement. Each member should be very round both inside and out when standing. The hind quarter should appear charged and ready to explode into action. When in motion, the hind quarter should exhibit several points of definition and appear to propel the animal forward with an extreme level of controlled thrust. Temperament The RTB is trustworthy and discerning, with a desire to under-gird his master. The Red-Tiger Bulldog is always loyal to its family but may not be welcoming to un-escorted house guest. They have a strong prey drive. They get along well with familiar dogs and animals. The Red-Tiger Bulldog needs a firm, consistent and confident owner. This Breed is intelligent and eager to please, yet can be stubborn and push for play time during training sessions. A brisk walk or short play break prior to training sessions tends to burn enough energy to curb this issue. Mild corrections and ample amounts of verbal praise tend to produce a positive response. Overly aggressive physical corrections or dominance can do irreversible physiological damage. Red-Tiger Bulldogs have a great memory and retain lessons quickly. It is imperative that the Red-Tiger Bulldog understands that the human pack members are all superior to them in the pack order. The Red-Tiger Bulldog is outgoing and mild mannered, gentle and submissive to children. They can be aloof with unannounced strangers as their watchdog prowess is expressed, but will calm right down with the reassurance of their master. Height, Weight Height: 22 - 26 inches 56 - 66 cm Weight: 75 - pounds 34 - 50 cm Health Problems The Red-Tiger Bulldog requires a consistent puppy diet during the first year of growth, irregular feeding patterns, overfeeding, or lack of puppy nutrition can result in down pasterns and or knuckling over in the forelegs. Living Conditions The Red-Tiger Bulldog will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Exercise The Red-Tiger Bulldog should be taken on a long daily walk. This breed does well in city and rural areas, regular play time as exercise or a moderate walk is a must. They are moderately active dogs and love to have a physical outlet. They are explosive, quick and agile, requiring mental stimulus as well as physical. Life Expectancy. Me The alluring charm of Red French Bulldogs: what makes them popular? French Bulldogs are a beloved breed of dog that have captured the hearts of dog lovers around the world. Among the many color variations of Frenchies, the Red French Bulldog stands out as one of the most unique and alluring. But what makes these pups so popular? The most obvious characteristic that sets Red French Bulldogs apart is their beautiful reddish coat. This unique color variation is the result of a recessive gene that can be carried by both parents. As the name suggests, red French Bulldogs have a light brown coat with a reddish shade. The red coloration can range from deep mahogany to a light, coppery hue, and can be accompanied by white markings on the chest and face. These puppies usually have black markings around their muzzle and eyes called a mask, and they also tend to have a white patch on their chest. Red French Bulldogs have the same lovable personality traits as other Frenchies. They are known for being affectionate, playful, and loyal companions. They thrive on attention and love to be near their owners, making them a great choice for families, couples, and individuals alike. Red French Bulldogs have short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. They are also low-maintenance when it comes to exercise and can be content with short walks and indoor playtime. Two of the most popular color variations are Red and Red Fawn. While these colors may look similar at first glance, there are some key differences to be aware of. Red Frenchies have a solid reddish coat, while Red Fawn Frenchies have a reddish coat with fawn or tan undertones. The fawn coloration can range from a pale cream to a deeper tan or brown color, and can often be seen on the face and ears of the dog. The Red Fawn coloration is the result of a different genetic combination than the Red coloration. They are both known for being affectionate, playful, and loyal companions, and are great with children and other pets. However, prices may be higher or lower depending on the demand for Red Frenchies at the time of purchase. While the price of a Red Frenchie may be steep, the joy and love they bring to your life are priceless. With so many breeders and puppies available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are five tips to help you choose the right Red Frenchie for you: 1. Research breeders The first step in finding the right Red French Bulldog is to research breeders. Look for breeders who have a reputation for producing healthy and well-cared-for puppies, just like we do at Tomkings Kennel. Check their website, read reviews from previous customers, and ask for references. A good breeder will be happy to provide references and answer any questions you have about their breeding program. We are an open book for you. Do you want a puppy who will be active and enjoy long walks, or one who will be content with short play sessions indoors? Do you have children or other pets that the dog will need to get along with? By considering your needs and expectations, you can find a puppy that will fit well into your home and lifestyle. Our Frenchie experts are more than happy to chat with you and help you choose the most suitable puppy for you. Consider the pup's age While many people prefer to adopt a puppy, there are also advantages to adopting an older Red French Bulldog. Older dogs may be more settled and calmer and may require less training than young puppies. We always have available teenage puppies at a reduced price! Ask about health testing Reputable breeders will perform health tests on their breeding dogs to ensure that they are free from genetic diseases or health issues that could be passed down to their puppies. Ask the breeder about the health testing they perform and what steps they take to ensure the health and well-being of their dogs and puppies. Choose a puppy that fits within your budget and that you can afford to care for properly. Feel free to ask our Frenchie experts about different prizes, and they are more than happy to find the right choice for you!
Temperament: Loyal, energetic and confident. Rottweiler Lab Mix Appearance Because this is a mixed breed, their physical appearance will vary depending on which parent breed the puppy takes after more. In general Labradors are thinner than Rottweiler, so Rottweiler Lab mixes will fall somewhere in the middle of these two breeds. Both breeds are broad-shouldered with a slight tuck and a large head. The first thing that you should notice with the Rottweiler Lab mix is how athletic they are. They should look muscular and give off a commanding presence. Their body usually resembles a Rottweiler, but their head and longer muzzle has more resemblance to the Labrador. Size The typical size of one of these dogs is anywhere between inches in height, with a weight of around pounds. Remember those pups with more Labrador will be on the smaller side, whilst those with more Rottweiler are on the heavier side. Coat and Colors These dogs come in a handful of darker colors including brown, black, gray or black and tan. A black and tan coat like that of a Rottweiler is the most common. The short to medium length coat of a Rottweiler Lab mix should be smooth to the touch. Because they have a double coat, these dogs shed quite a bit. To keep up with their shedding you should expect to brush your dog every other day or at the very least, weekly to keep the coat healthy. They are one of the largest hybrid dogs around. Despite the short coat these dogs are not hypoallergenic. This is a very adaptable dog and is suitable for most households. Rottweiler Lab Mix Personality and Temperament Rottweilers and Labradors vary quite a bit in their personalities, so it can be difficult to predict exactly how your mix will behave when fully grown. One thing you can know for sure is they love to be with their family. They will follow you all over the house and are happiest when they can be by your side. Because of this they are often prone to separation anxiety, so please be ready to work through this with your new dog. These dogs tend to be very playful and love nothing more than to play a game of fetch or tug with their owner or other dogs. And like working Labs they have boundless amounts of energy meaning that they will play for hours. Rottweiler and Lab mixes are a protective breed but are not typically aggressive — still caution is needed when letting your dog interact with strangers. Proper socialization when they are young can help to curb this but they will most likely never be very welcoming of strangers. Both Rottweilers and Labradors make great family dogs so expect this mix to be no different. They are more than willing to participate in any antics that their kids get up to. Just remember these mixes are protective by nature and will often view other children as a threat to their own kids. Caring for a Rottweiler Lab Mix The Rottweiler Lab mix is a highly active, very strong breed that needs discipline and a strong owner. They require obedience training from day one to make sure that you can keep control of them when they grow bigger and stronger. Other than that they do great in almost any household. They are a very adaptable dog that do not bark much. The biggest issue with this breed is the huge amount of physical exercise they need. Exercise Requirements Both the Labrador and the Rottweiler are high energy and athletic breeds, so your mix will be the same. These dogs like to go and need a lot of daily exercise. At least one hour walk a day with another hour of playtime is the bare minimum required for these dogs. Hiking or even swimming are great ways to tire out your dog physically. So make sure that you have the time to take them for an extra-hard hike at least once a week. You can also do dog sports with your Rottweiler Labrador mix, such as agility and rally. If these dogs do not receive the proper amount of physical stimulation they can become destructive. Number of Walks Per Day: 2. Grooming and Shedding Because of their short coat these dogs do not require regular trips to the groomers or daily brushing. However they do need to be brushed every other day or so. Regular bathing is also not necessary for these dogs. You can give them a bath just when they smell or look like they need it. Too many baths can dry out their fur and cause skin irritation. To remove dead hair and skin you can also use a wet washcloth and wipe it over their body. Feeding and Diet A high protein food specialized for large breed dogs is best for your mix. You should speak with your vet to establish the protein content your pooch needs it differs depending on how active your dog is. Because the Rottweiler Lab mix is prone to bloat it is best to feed this dog in smaller portions throughout the day. Giving them a cup of food three times a day is best. Never leave food out freely for this breed — they are prone to being overweight. Having pet insurance could save you from the headaches of going to the vets with reimbursement for every vet bill from now on! Rottador Highlights Rottadors are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Rottweiler or Labrador Retriever parents. The main colors of Rottador coats are black, brown, and grey. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. When around children, especially young ones, they should be supervised because they are so big and strong. When Rottadors are raised with other dogs and cats, they generally get along well with them. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reinforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. Rottadors are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour-long walk per day. Rottador History The Rottador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Rottweilers and Labradors in North America, likely in the s. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create Rottadors as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though Rottadors got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up Rottador rescues, or check with breed specific Rottweiler and Labrador rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. However, as a mix between Rottweiler and Labrador parents, you can expect the Rottador to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 70 to pounds and range in height from 24 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Rottador Personality Rottadors make affectionate family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their Rottweiler parents regularly work as police or guard dogs or cattle herding, while their Labrador Retriever parents have jobs as hunting or guide dogs. They make excellent family companions. Just make sure you have a lot of time and attention to devote to them. Rottador Health The Rottador mixed breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Rottweiler and Labrador Retriever also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Fetch and other adventurous activities are also recommended. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth three times a week minimum, or daily is even better. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. Rottador Feeding An ideal Rottador diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They usually have medium-to-short, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are indoor dogs and need to live indoors. Because of their cattle-driving heritage, they have a tendency to lean and push and can accidentally topple a toddler with a nudge. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. They may have issues with strange dogs or adult dogs that are introduced into the home, being intolerant of same-sex dogs. With your training and guidance, however, they should accept new animals peaceably. Keep your Rottador on leash in public to prevent aggression or belligerence toward other dogs. Rottador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Rottadors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Rottweiler or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Rottweiler Lab Mix The 3 most important traits to give your dog are: Exercise: Dogs, like people, need exercise for a balanced state of being. This is especially true for high-energy dog breeds. Training: The time you spend early in training your dog will save much more time and anguish down the road in trying to correct them. Remember the key to effective training—tireless and patient consistency and persistence in insisting upon your dog follow your commands. Socialization — Expose your pooch to different people and environments every opportunity you get. Whether it is taking the trash can out or taking a package to the post office. This last part of the article is split up into five different sections, all of which are very important if you wish to own a Labrador Rottweiler mix. The Training of your Rottweiler Lab Mix The training of your Lab Rottweiler mix puppy is crucial, not because this is their formative years, but because they are part Rottweiler. Rottweilers are an alpha dog breed, and if they sense any weakness from a pack leader. They will push their way into being the leader of the pack, over you and the rest of the family. So train your Lab Rottweiler mix from an early age, the sooner you get the little puppy to realize that you are the pack leader the better life you will have. Bo the Labrottie Image by Jackie Myers Constant training is the key to keeping the Lab Rottweiler mix happy and content in its place throughout its lifespan. In training, always have the puppy complete the instruction no matter how many times it takes. Exercise For The Rottweiler Lab Mix The exercise needs of the Rottweiler Lab are at least 30 to 45 minutes daily, they need regular exercise otherwise, they can become obese and depressed if their exercise needs are not given to them. Other than that they would be happy to join you on the couch until something or someone catches their attention. They do tend to love to play out in the yard with a ball, toy, or rope with you or a family member. If they do not receive their daily needs of exercise they will start to do destructive behavior throughout the house and yard. You will find clothing torn, tables, chairs, trees, shrubs, basically anything they can get their mouths on will be chewed up and pooped out. Until they get the right amount of attention and exercise. Socialization of The Rottweiler Lab Mix All animals, including ourselves, need proper socialization skills to navigate through life, an ill-socialized dog is spelled for disaster. Invite friends and neighbors over to your home regularly to get the puppy used to people coming and going from your home. Take him out with you when you go out for coffee, to the post office, or just anywhere you can bring a dog, such as your local pet store. Socialization teaches your dog that other humans and animals outside of the immediate pack are friendly as well. Zeus the Rottweiler Lab Mix We think and we have good evidence that Zeus and his fellow litter mates suffered abuse because he fears: men plaid shirts Zeus my Labrottie We had several very nice leashes, that I carelessly left lying about, and Zeus discovered them and destroyed them in no time flat. So my dad bought a chain leash, and when it arrived Zeus completely freaked out! Running off and began rolling over when he ran out of space to run away. Another time one cool winter morning I came downstairs wearing a plaid shirt he growled and started barking ferociously at me. Needless to say, it took him a while to calm down. During those few instances, his flight or fight side of the brain took over. But, I consistently reinforced good actions, and he steadily grew accustomed to chains, plaid shirts, and men. Today, in Zeus does not fear men or much of anything actually, and is quite a lovable, very protective, happy go lucky Rottweiler Lab mix. If you wish to read more about Zeus the Rottweiler lab mix , just click the link. Zeus my Labrottie The Health Issues of the Rottweiler Lab Mixed Breed Cold tail — Cold tail happens to sport dogs, they gradually lose the loss of their tail, this is quite painful for it is at the base of the butt. Bloat — Bloat happens when a dog has just eaten and is taken out and is run about for a while. This is a deadly condition if not take to the vet immediately. There the Veterinarians will cut into the stomach and untwist the stomach. Bone cancer — Sadly the Rottie has one of the highest rates of bone cancer. Obesity — The Labrador is prone to overeat and they can become obese. Hip and Elbow dysplasia — Happens to any dog breed that gets overbred without healthy standers. Conclusion of the Lab Rottweilers Mixed Breed. Due to their ability to be a multi-use dog and still be the families friendly pet with proper training at an early age. All in all the Rottweiler Labrador Mix is an awesome dog for anyone experienced with a large dog! All that owner has to do is give the Rottweiler Labrador Mix the proper amount of exercise, socialization, and positive reinforcement training. To make them an outstanding dog! A Labrador Rottweiler mix or any dog without any of these most important qualities, a dog will become unstable and unresponsive to you or anybody else. That any dog should get no matter what is happening, training, socialization, and exercise if you nail down those three qualities in your dog. You most likely will not have any behavior problems because you are keeping your dog mentally balanced, and also actively balanced. But if your dog does start showing a different behavior look back and see if you have slipped up in the three most important things to give your dog over their lifespan! This video is shortly after Zeus the Rottweiler Labrador Retriever arriving at my doorstep, enjoy! For those of you who have or are going to get a new puppy! We have several dog name article just for you. These devoted and docile animals are often seen following their owner and always trying to please their family with a clownish behavior. They might become destructive if you keep them separated for long periods. The Labrotties are not known to welcome strangers or other unfamiliar pets due to their territorial instincts. This makes it necessary to expose them to different people as well as sights and sounds. These pets get along fine with kids if raised with them. Care Exercise Since it has a working heritage, the breed requires a fair amount of regular activity to keep it happy. Even though it remains somewhat inactive indoors, it will appreciate a minute walk or a romp in a fenced yard. It also enjoys one or two sessions of interactive games including retrieving a ball, which it will happily carry in its mouth. Do not over-exercise your pet as its double coat could cause its body to become excessively hot. Grooming When it comes to grooming, your Labrottie needs a weekly brushing using a firm-bristled brush. This will help in not only removing the loose hairs but also distributing the skin oils much more evenly. To keep it looking clean as well as smelling good, you need to bathe your Rottweiler-Labrador mix once or twice every two months. If its nails do not wear down naturally, trim them down once a month. Health Problems Like all big dogs with a deep chest, the Labrotties are susceptible to bloat or torsion. Therefore, do not feed your dog a single large meal, neither encourage it to eat rapidly nor make it exercise vigorously after a meal. Moreover, this breed is sometimes affected by hip and elbow dysplasia, bone cancer, PRA, canine cataracts, and allergies. Training This breed is not suitable for those owners who lack confidence or do not have the time to supervise and train their dogs. Obedience Training: Keep the commands short, one or two words at the most. You may use clicker training that is based on positive reinforcement, consistency, and cooperation to curb its natural aggressive behavior. Socialization: Carefully introduce your Labrottie to other dogs, which will help it to learn to coexist with its new companion. Feeding Apart from feeding your dog on canned food and dry kibble, you could provide it with bones and raw meat. Feed your pet a quality dog food that has at least 30 percent protein, 20 percent crude fat, and less than 4 percent fiber. The appearance of this crossbreed dog will depend on the parent mix, but the Labrottie is likely to inherit a solid and sturdy body like the Rottweiler, a broad head like the Labrador and a short to medium length, shiny double coat. A Rottweiler Lab mix is one of the largest hybrid dogs around. It may look like a fearsome large dog but it can be very friendly, loyal, and loving. The Lab Rottie is a very energetic and muscular dog whose exercise needs should not be underestimated by any potential dog owner. Early behavioral and socialization training will help this Rottweiler mix show its affectionate and positive protective nature. A Labrottie puppy is an adorable crossbreed dog. A brief history of this mixed-breed dog A Rottweiler Lab mix is a cross between a purebred Rottweiler dog and a purebred Labrador Retriever dog. When two different dog breeds are deliberately mixed, the crossbreed is known as a designer dog ; this Rottweiler and Labrador hybrid dog is sometimes nicknamed a Rottador. This breed is very confident and determined and is regarded as the No1 guard dog. Rottweiler dogs were as used to herd and guard cattle for Roman soldiers as they traveled around in their quest to conquer Europe; these cattle were the primary food source. Their alertness, discipline, and endurance made them an ideal guard dog. Fact: The Rottweiler is probably the oldest known herding dog breed with its origins traceable back to Roman times. The Rottweiler dog breed is believed to have descended from Roman drover dogs: a mastiff-like dog. Their intelligence, strength, and energy levels meant that these large dogs were used during the World Wars as guard dogs and for messenger or ambulance duties. They are still used today for this type of support and search and rescue activity. So what color is a Rottweiler dog? Parent 2: History of the Labrador Retriever — a purebred dog The Labrador Retriever is the best-loved and most popular dog breed in the world! It has a solid double coat in one of 3 colors; pure black, chocolate brown, or yellow. Whatever the coat color this is just an attractive and loveable dog breed for any level of dog owner or as an adorable and friendly family dog. The Labrador Retriever dog is from Newfoundland, Canada, and was used by fishermen to retrieve their fish from nets and catch any that escaped back into the sea. They are good swimmers and have a gentle mouth grip that will not further destroy any prey they are ordered to retrieve. The Newfoundland and Labrador Province, in Canada, provided this hunting and retrieving dog with its name — the Labrador Retriever or Lab to its friends! The Newfoundland Labrador Retriever dog breed came to Great Britain around , to be used as gun dogs for retrieving waterfowl from land and water, during the shooting season, in Scotland and England. Ongoing breeding is believed to have continued the pure Newfoundland lab bloodline in our Labrador Retriever breed today. The lab is gentle, fun-loving and loyal with an easy-going temperament. A Labrador Puppy, when trained and socialized it can be trusted and protective around anyone. Meet the offspring: The hybrid offspring of these two purebred dogs is the Rottweiler Labrador mix — the Labrottie puppy. Designer dogs gained popularity in the United States during the s and this increased demand and popularity for cross-breeds such as the Labrador Rottweiler mix. The Labrottie puppy is a hybrid dog breed and is therefore not recognized as a breed in its own right, by the American Kennel Club; nor can it be awarded pedigree papers. Any other colors may be due to a gene mutation and are rare. What are the main characteristics of a Labrottie? Any crossbred dog, like the Labrador Rottweiler mix, could inherit the characteristics and the health problems of either parent or from both; or perhaps they could get the best of both and be stronger and inherit fewer health problems than their parent breeds. It can be heavily weighted towards the characteristics of one parent more than the other. With any mixed breed dog, you just have to wait and see how it turns out. Labrottie puppies tend to have more of the classic appearance and sturdy build of the Rottweiler but with the friendlier facial features and floppy ears of a Labrador. This mix is likely to be courageous, confident and smart and also loving and affectionate. They will show devoted loyalty to their dog owner and family. They will be fairly active and enjoy having lots of company. Reputation: Any Rottweiler mix dog could be thought of as a fierce guard dog. The Rottweiler is a confident breed that looks fiercer than its behavior displays. When a Rottweiler is mixed with a Labrador Retriever, the perception changes, as the Labrador is considered a highly friendly, soft-natured, and docile family pet. When mixed the Labrottie will be loving, loyal, and protective of its loved ones, but wary of strangers, with a big bark. This mix is not recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC as it is not a purebred dog, but this will not affect this attractive dog being in demand. Trainability: Any Rottweiler mix puppy needs to be trained and socialized as early as possible. This Rottweiler Labrador mix puppy will be a powerful and muscular large-dog breed that needs to learn control and discipline early. They are intelligent and determined so training should be fairly easy, but this powerful dog is not recommended for an inexperienced dog owner or anyone who cannot provide it with lots of exercise and long walks. Positive reinforcement and reward-based training are recommended for this large dog breed as is very confident, and strong-willed, so it will need to build trust with its owner. Rottweiler mix puppies should be trained slowly and never negatively punished, challenged directly, hit, or locked up for misbehavior. Always reinforce change gradually and praise good behavior and learning. Clicker training would work well with this puppy. This powerful mixed breed dog is no more likely to bite than any other dog breed however with their muscular build they could be very physical in their attempts to play; therefore they should be supervised at all times around young children and smaller animals. The Labweiler is fairly energetic, so a Labrador Rottweiler puppy will need at least one hour of daily exercise and playtime, building up hours a day in adulthood. Power and intelligence: Labrotties are smart, very powerful with a protective nature. They are fast learners but can be stubborn and aloof, so they will need to be trained and handled properly to be able to socialize in public with other dogs and children. They will love to keep active and play games with their family in a way that keeps them challenged; catch the ball or frisbee, puzzles or interactive toys are popular with this breed. Socialization: Early socialization dog training and discipline are strongly recommended for any Rottweiler mix dog. This type of hybrid dog has two highly active parents and one is a powerful guard dog. This mixed breed dog will need to learn to control its strength and have discipline training early to become well—behaved and trusted with other dogs and children. It will thrive in an outdoor environment. Purpose: A Rottweiler Labrador mix will be observant and have herding and retrieving instincts and want to be kept busy. The Labradors have a soft bite that is delicate and careful when retrieving anything and the Rottweiler is determined and forceful. Over time both have used their skills for good activities such as search and rescue, as both can follow orders and commands. A Labrottie can be a disciplined and protective family pet or a good service dog. Behavior: A Rottweiler Lab mix can be strong-willed, occasionally stubborn, and physically powerful, therefore it needs to be trained early as it can become destructive, bark, or chews things if under-stimulated. Physical Characteristics of the Labrottie Size: The Rottweiler Lab mix is considered a large-sized dog breed that has a solid and muscular build, with the build of a fearsome guard dog but the face of a loveable Lab. Weight: You can expect both male and female to reach between 70lblb kg in adulthood. You can expect a Labrottie to live between years, and to spawn a litter size of between pups on average. Temperament: The Rottweiler Lab mix can be strong-willed and stubborn. This Rottador has a very high energy level and can be destructive and bark if not occupied. With careful training and socialization they can be affectionate, pleasant and kind and protective How should you train a Rottweiler Labrador mix dog? The Rottweiler breed has had a reputation for being aggressive and dangerous if not trained properly. The boundaries need to be set early for this mixed breed dog. Fun and positive reinforcement and reward-based training work best. Never hit or raise your voice to this breed during training as it may challenge this Labweiler to rebel and refuse to cooperate. Types of training required: obedience, discipline, agility, and socialization. So, if you are not going to use a professional dog trainer: 1 Develop basic command words: Stop, Sit, Down, etc. This hybrid dog will try to dominate and this must be controlled early in training. This will eventually become its nest and it will sleep there. Eventually, the puppy with your help will learn where and where not to go. They will eventually become creatures of habit and regulate their need and place to use. Health problems and health issues What health problems can a Rottweiler Lab mix suffer from? Hip Dysplasia and elbow dysplasia — common in many large breeds of dog. Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint, where the ball at the top of the leg does not fit properly into the socket and the ligaments attaching it are weak. This allows excess movement of the fitting which can eventually lead to stiffness and pain for the dog. Early warning signs are visual stiffness then walking, a reluctance to get up when prompted, and a difference in walking style; limp or caution. Bloat — any large dog that eats quickly or drinks a lot before exercising can suffer from bloat. This dangerous excessive gas build-up can cause the stomach to twist and damage other organs. Other health issues include ear infections, bone cancer, heart problems, skin conditions and allergies, epilepsy, and cold tail. How do you care for a Labrottie dog? Exercise needs A Labrottie is outgoing, athletic, and energetic so it will need lots of mixed exercises that blend fun and challenges. They need outdoor space to run around and burn off their excess energy, long walks, and activities that involve exercising around 2 hours a day as an adult. Feeding Feed as a large-sized dog, around 3 cups of Kibble dry formulated food per day. They should be fed twice a day and slowly to prevent bloat. Grooming This mixed breed dog inherits a short to medium length, shiny, dense double coat. Bathing This shortish-haired, water-resistant coated dog does not need regular bathing, only when required. Certain dog formulated shampoos have a double effect of cleaning the coat and protecting it against fleas and insect bites. Cleaning teeth, nails and ears As with all dogs, their teeth need to be cleaned regularly to prevent a build-up of plaque. Chewing breaks down plaque, so use doggie chew-toys, bare-bones and soft toothbrushes, and toothpaste. Nails grow quickly and need trimming regularly, say monthly, and ears need to be checked for debris that could cause infection. Lifestyle This breed is very confident, intelligent, and highly energetic. It will try to be dominant unless controlled and needs to be kept occupied otherwise it can become destructive. They can be stubborn and aggressive until trained. They will chew things if bored or left alone for long periods of time, so keep stimulated and busy. Chew toys can help with boredom. They need your company and outdoor space to run. This breed is a natural watchdog that will act on instinct to be very protective of its family. Positives and Negatives of ownership Positives A Family dog and loyal companion Intelligent and affectionate. A Rottweiler crossed with a Lab is a large dog and will require at least 1, calories a day. The only way to achieve that is to go for recipes developed particularly for giant pups, such as these best large breed dry dog food brands. You may also serve them the overall best dry dog food , but remember to increase the portions. This crossbreed will have an insatiable appetite from their first months, so only give them the absolute best puppy food brands or even the best dry dog food for small dogs. Old goggies will still want to munch a ton, but the food needs to be appropriate for their age. The best senior dry dog food will have adequate ingredients for this age group and it will be softer so they can eat it with ease. This lessens the amount of food they will have per meal and reduces the risk of bloating, something that typically afflicts large breeds. Low-quality meals are also detrimental to their health, so keep your pooch away from the worst dry dog food out there. There are several good dry dog food for large breeds like the Rottweiler Lab cross. It also uses deboned chicken as its primary ingredient and eschews corn, soy or wheat. It reportedly also alleviates allergies and poor digestion. It also has flaxseed, which is abundant in omega-3 fatty acids. Nutra Thrive dog food supplement : Although not food per se, supplements are essential for the necessary intake of vitamins and minerals that your pup may need if they are particularly active or muscular like a Rott Lab mix. It also has glucosamine to improve joint health. You should expect their offspring to inherit that trait as well. A Lab crossed with a Rottweiler needs to be taken on long walks daily, with each trip lasting about 30 to 60 minutes long. The question here is whether you have the energy and stamina to match your dog. Lack of activity and eating too much can cause your dog to put on weight. Being overweight or obese can lead to diabetes and other health problems. A Lab crossed with Rottweiler also needs a lot of attention. It needs company and puzzles and toys that will keep it engaged. Otherwise, it will become bored and develop separation anxiety. These can manifest into some pretty destructive behavior, like incessant barking, chewing, biting, and digging. The right toys can give your dog an outlet for their energy. It also helps sharpen its mind and reflexes. Here are the top toys for a large breed like the Rottodor. This KONG dog toy has been bringing joy to countless dogs for years now. The toy is designed to be filled with treats to keep your pet occupied for hours as it tries to get to the goodies. Nylabone Big Chew: This toy has a distinct shape and is made from extra-strong nylon. A lot of dog owners claim that it takes years for their dog to wear down this toy. Kick Fetch Toy Ball: Another great toy for large and active dogs, the Chuckit allows you to play fetch with your dog. But instead of throwing the ball, you kick it like a soccer ball. The grooves on the ball make it easier for your pet to carry it back to you. Rottweiler Lab Training Training the Rottweiler Lab can be easy, especially if you already have experience with dogs. Having two intelligent parents, Rottador is also smart and quick to learn. Its instinctual need to please its human gives it the motivation to work hard and learn new tricks. Like other breeds, a Rottweiler Lab mix will respond to positive reinforcement better than through punishment or other harsh strategies. However, you should tap the services of an experienced dog trainer to help train your dog. Expose your puppy to other dogs and people by bringing it to a dog park. You might have to keep it on a leash initially until it learns to interact peacefully with others. Even if your Lab Rottweiler mix is socialized, you should not let it play with very young children. Training and socialization will be a lifetime process. Punishment-based training never works. Studies have also shown that using this technique raises less obedient dogs that are more likely to attack strangers and even their owners. Have a lot of visitors over while your dog is still a puppy. Puppies are very confident, so this is the best time to introduce them to new situations. They should not become afraid of other people as fear is what makes dogs attack. Correct nibbling behavior immediately. A quick tap or a spray of a citrusy mix will put a stop to it. Redirect their gnawing tendency towards an appropriate chew toy. This strong dog has an equally strong will and drive. It needs someone who knows how to handle powerful, intelligent canines and who can step up and be firm with it. In short, it needs a no-nonsense Alpha. The Labweiler also needs a family who has an active lifestyle since it needs to be exercised regularly. This dog has boundless energy so it needs a place to romp around. It will not do well in small apartments or with owners that are more inclined towards a sedentary lifestyle. This can lead to very destructive behavior. You could come home to a ruined couch or to complaints of excessive barking. Families with young children should also choose another dog. The Rottweiler Lab mix can be the greatest canine companion for the right person. This lovable giant needs a confident and experienced dog owner who leads an active lifestyle. Do Rottweiler Lab mixes have health concerns? Labrador Retrievers got their start when they were imported from Newfoundland to England in the s. They were hunting and fishing dogs. Rottweilers are of German descent. They have been traditionally used as guarding, herding, and hunting dogs. The Rottweiler Lab mix was perhaps inevitable with two such high demand parents. One of the best things about crossed breeds is the wide range of potential shapes and personalities your dog could grow to have. But this can have its downside as well. In the case of the Labrottie, there are several different possibilities for both appearance and personality. Labradors and Rottweilers are different sizes, and your puppy may fall anywhere between. Rottweilers generally weigh up to pounds, while Labradors are significantly less heavy set at pounds. Rottweiler height can be up to 27 inches at the shoulder, whereas Labs only grow to a maximum of .Both breeds can vary in size within themselves, so it stands to reason that larger Labrador and Rottweiler parents will have a larger Labrottie pup. Most, however, should fall somewhere in the middle. Labrador Rottweiler Mix Coat Rottweilers are well known for their classic black and tan coloring. They have short, low-maintenance coats. Labs come in different colors. Yellow, chocolate, black — they could pass down their coloring to your Labrottie puppy, resulting in a unique coloration. All you can bank on is the range from both parents. Labrador Rottweiler Mix Shedding Labradors have a double coat that protects them from the cold in winter or while swimming in cold water. This is especially true during certain times of the year, as their winter coat starts to come loose. The Labrottie has the benefit of two parent breeds with generally low-maintenance coats. Both Labradors and Rottweilers have short, easily groomed coats. Rottweiler Lab mix pups will definitely have the same length coat. Then they may need a little more. Rottweiler Lab Mix Temperament Labradors have a proud history as faithful retriever dogs, whereas Rottweilers have an equally proud history as guard dogs. Labradors are generally friendly, and are bred specifically for the task of returning hunted game to their owners. A dog bred for this purpose needed to be comfortable around all sorts of people. Rottweilers, in their guarding capacity, have been bred in a way that a fearful and distrusting attitude toward strangers. But how does this combination affect your pup? Labrottie Personality First generation mixes are kind of like rolling a dice. Or you might end up with a protective guard dog that looks exactly like the Labrador. Rottie Lab Mix Aggression As a breed, Rottweilers are responsible for a disproportionate amount of dog attacks. They certainly appear to be among the more aggression-prone breeds. This should be seriously considered by people with kids. Guarding dogs are generally good with their families, but families have friends. Kids bring over other kids, and a family pet needs to be accepting of this. One is by meeting the Rottie parent and making sure they are totally at ease in the presence of you and your family. Socialization is vital for any breed, but especially for a breed like the Rottweiler. Rottweiler Lab Mix Socialization The idea of using traditional training techniques on your Rottweiler mix may be a daunting task for some owners. Fortunately, nowadays we have better and safer methods for training dogs. The first step is always socialization. Introduce your dog to lots of other dogs and people at a very young age to help desensitize them to strangers. You want them to happily accept people coming and going in their home as nothing to be afraid of. Your Rottweiler Lab mix puppy must meet new visitors every day. Make sure a large proportion of them are children. In the wild they would be under the protection of their family, so fear would be unnecessary. Therefore, this is the best time to throw them into all sorts of new situations. Training And Exercising Your Rottweiler Lab Mix Positive training techniques also play a vital role in crafting the obedience and temperament of a dog. For anyone still considering punishment-based training, I would strongly advise against it. Studies have shown that dogs trained in this manner are less obedient, and more likely to attack both their owners and strangers. Rottweiler Lab Puppy Training Like any puppy, your Rottador will require specialized training when they are young, in addition to socialization. Rottweiler Lab Mix Exercise All dogs require a good amount of exercise to keep them in shape. This is especially true with physically capable breeds like the Rottweiler and Lab. Given a good amount of space to run around in, your Labrottie will thrive. Lack of exercise combined with poor diet can unfortunately be deadly. Obesity in dogs, as in humans, leads to diabetes and other complications. Breeding two dogs that are genetically dissimilar results in a phenomena called hybrid vigor, whereby outbreeding undoes a lot of the harm done by inbreeding. These dogs can still carry on genetic diseases from either of their parents given the right circumstances. Labrador Health Both Labradors and Rottweilers suffer regularly from hip dysplasia, meaning their hips are improperly formed. One nasty complication of hip dysplasia is a disease called degenerative joint disorder. One of the more commonly reported concerns in Labradors is exercise induced collapse. This strange condition means that Labradors in the full swing of physical activity may suddenly be unable to hold themselves up. It has actually been linked to a gene, so it is doubtless inherited from dog to dog. Other problems commonly seen in Labradors include elbow dysplasia, PRA, obesity, ear problems, and skin allergies. Hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as PRA, can be tested for. Health testing is an important part of the process of taking care of our pets. Rottweiler Health Elbow dysplasia is also a very common condition in Rottweilers. A study of German Rottweilers found more than half suffered from this ailment. Rottweilers also appear to be susceptible to a few nasty neurological disorders, namely nueroaxonal dystrophy and leukoencephalomalacia. Both of these diseases are degenerative, meaning they gradually get worse and worse. Unfortunately there is no cure or treatment for either, and they sadly can be fatal. For more information on health tests and screens that should be done for Rottweilers, visit the British Veterinary Association and this panel from UC Davis Veterinary Medicine. Although he is potentially less likely to suffer from any of these diseases than a purebred dog, the risk is not removed. Health testing is still a vital part of good breeding practice, even for mixes. Rottweilers have a shorter span of years. Your Rottweiler and Labrador mix could fall anywhere in that range, depending on the health of the dog. What makes a pet good depends on the person, and also the individual pet. Your Lab Rott mix could look like a Labrador, but with the guarding instincts and characteristic wariness of the Rottweiler. Equally, your dog could look much more Rottweiler-ish and have the gentle, easily trainable personality of a Labrador. The likelihood is it will be somewhere in between. Socialization and training go a long way to producing a happy and friendly dog. But genetics play an important role. The Labrador Rottweiler mix is best suited to an active adult home, where the family is around for much of the day and is committed to positive reinforcement training methods. But they will need a lot of work in terms of socialization and training, to make sure you reduce the possibility of bad behavior later on. Both parents should be friendly, healthy and confident. This is by no means a guarantee, but stacks more of the odds in your favor. Please avoid buying from puppy mills or pet stores, as these have no real concern for the health of their animals. Rottweiler Lab puppies are now deliberately bred, but they have existed for quite a while by accident. You need to avoid backyard breeders by only going to someone who has mixed a beloved pet due to their excellent health and wonderful temperament. Good breeders ask lots of questions, and are happy to answer them in return. Both the Lab and Rottie parent of your puppy must have excellent hip and elbow scores. The breeder should provide you proof of this. They must also be clear for PRA and have recent unaffected eye tests from their vet. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. The last thing you want to do is add to the shelter population. Both Labs and Rottweilers are similar in many ways, and the intelligence of a Lab Rottweiler is quite consistent no matter what parent they take after. They are great guard dogs and extremely intelligent. Lab Rottweilers typically get extremely large and are clumsy, which means they can easily injure smaller kids. This is especially a concern because kids tend to rough-house and act in ways that could trigger an aggressive response from a Lab Rottweiler. We broke down the basics for you here. A Lab Rottweiler on the smaller side will still wolf down about 4 cups of food a day! A Lab Rottweiler that weighs in at pounds should eat about 5. When you break it down, a single Lab Rottweiler should go through a pound bag of dog food between every 3 to 4 weeks. Always go with a high-quality dog food that has all the nutrients that they need to thrive. Saving a few bucks on low-quality food now will likely cost you even more in vet bills in the long run. But even if you have a fenced-in yard that your Lab Rottweiler has access to, you still should take them out for a walk every day. Still, the key is persistence, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Keep training sessions relatively short and refrain from any kind of negative reinforcement, like yelling. Lab Rottweilers respond best to love and attention, and they might shut down and shy away from training sessions if they associate them with negative behaviors. They only require brushing once a week, and you can keep baths to a minimum too. Chief among these concerns is hip and elbow dysplasia. Minor Conditions. For now, here are ten 10 of the possible health problems that can plague a Labrador Retriever Mix with Rottweiler: 1. Obesity A Labrador is known to be a voracious eater. While this is good, especially during training sessions when a Labrador performs well to get her much-deserved food treat, too much food will make her at risk for various health problems such as being overweight, diabetes, and arthritis, just to name a few. Elbow Dysplasia Elbow dysplasia is a condition mostly affects medium to large dog breeds. Unfortunately, both the Rottweiler and the Labrador are both at higher risk. Elbow dysplasia occurs when there is an abnormality in the growth of either one or both elbow joints. Hip Dysplasia An orthopedic condition, hip dysplasia can occur when there is an abnormality in the growth of the ball and the socket which are located in the hip joint. Skin Allergies If you notice severe itching and skin lesions, most likely your Rottweiler Lab Mix is suffering from skin allergies. It could be triggered by food proteins such as soy. Or if the skin allergies are seasonal, you can blame it on the environment such as pollen or mildew. Bloat Large dog breeds are the ones more prone to bloat, a life-threatening condition. In most cases, bloat happens after a huge meal or too much water intake. Gas accumulates in the stomach eventually causing twitching of the intestines and blocking normal blood flow. Ear Infections Labrador Retrievers tend to get affected by ear infections because of their floppy ears which are the perfect breeding places for bacteria and fungi to thrive and multiply. Aortic Stenosis This is a congenital heart problem that is caused by the obstruction of blood flow in the left ventricle of the heart. Entropion More prone to this eye problem is the Labrador parent. This is characterized by the inward rolling of the eyelids that causes the eyelashes to rub the eyes which eventually leads to cornea damage. Ectropion This one refers to the rolling of the eyelids outwards but usually gets resolved on its own as the dog gets older. However, this condition makes a dog susceptible to conjunctivitis. Epilepsy A neurological disorder that causes the affected dog to go through epileptic seizures. Though this is not fatal but intermittent seizures may eventually damage the organs. The Lab Rottweiler Mix lifespan is from 10 to 12 years. The life expectancy of a Rottweiler Lab Mix is rather long so be sure you can dedicate a good 10 to 12 years of care for this dog. You can maximize the lifespan of a Rottweiler Lab Mix with the right and proper care. If not, the lifespan of Rottweiler Lab Mix may be shortened if you fail to provide him with the necessary nutrition and veterinary care. Give him everything he needs so that the life expectancy Rottweiler Lab Mix will be long and happy. As a parent, one of your goals is to maximize the Rottweiler Lab Mix life expectancy to the fullest. Rottweiler Lab Mix breeders If you want to own a Rottweiler mixed with Labrador, there are only two 2 places to look. One is from a reputable and ethical breeder who only breeds healthy and DNA-tested dogs together to produce robust puppies. The second is from rescue or adoption centers so you can give the abandoned dogs a forever home and a second chance on love and life. First and foremost, you should only buy a Lab and Rottweiler Mix puppy from a breeder whom you trust. The best thing to do is to come up with a list of breeders of Rottador puppies near you. Or, you can also choose breeders of Labrador Rottweiler Mix puppies from another city or even from another country. If the breeder is not in the US, you can ask them if they can fly the Rottweiler and Lab Mix puppy to you. In case the breeders currently do not have Rottweiler Lab Mix puppies for sale, do inquire if there is an upcoming litter of Lab Rottweiler Mix puppies and if you can make a reservation for a Labrador Rottweiler Mix puppy. Observe the physical traits of the Rottweiler Lab puppies. One of the indications of healthy Rottie Lab puppies is that there are no visible signs of ribs. This indicates that the Labrador Rottweiler pups are healthy, well-fed, and do not have an existing illness. Then, inspect the coat of the Lab and Rottweiler Mix puppies. The Rottweiler Lab puppy should not have bald patches. Look straight into the eyes of the Rottweiler and Lab Mix puppies. They should be clear, bright, and show no signs of eye discharge. The same is true for the ears. Remember when we said early on that Lab Rott Mix puppies are prone to ear infections? What about the behaviors of the Rottweiler Mixed with Lab puppies? Well-socialized Rottweiler and Labrador Mix puppies are not afraid to meet new faces. The Rottie Lab Mix puppies should come to you without any signs of fear and the tails of the Rottweiler Mixed with Labrador puppies should be wagging happily and not tucked between their two hind legs. Rottweiler Retriever Mix puppies should also be actively interacting with their littermates; if not, it is a clear sign of a nervous Lab Mixed with Rottweiler puppy. Take note that an anxious or nervous puppy Rottweiler Lab Mix might have the tendency to nip when threatened which is what you want to avoid, more so if you have small or young kids at home. Lastly, we want to emphasize that regardless of breed, all puppies, including Rottweiler Labrador Mix puppies are curious about their new surroundings. It is not uncommon for a Rottweiler Lab puppy Mix to explore their environment by sniffing and chewing so physical punishment should not be an option when it comes to disciplining a puppy. Puppies should learn to socialize with their mom and littermates until 3 to 4 months of age. This is the time that the puppies learn how to play bite and how to communicate with their kind. Chocolate Lab Rottweiler Mix puppies Labrador and Rottweiler Mix are the offspring of a brown Labrador which is considered to be the rarest color and a Rottweiler. A chocolate Lab Rottweiler could sport a one-color coat of either black or brown or a mixture of both with some rust markings. Go to MidAmerica Rottweiler Rescue adoptarott. Rottweiler Rescue realrottweilerrescue. In this section, we will show you where you may find LabRottie puppies for sale. Visit Lovely Rottweilers lovelyrottweilerpuppiesforsale. All pups for sale are properly socialized and health-tested. You may be able to find one at Lititz Rottweilers lititzrottweilers. Feel free to inquire if they have Rottweiler and Lab Mix puppies for sale. Rottweiler Lab puppies for sale Australia You may want to go to Blackcombe Rottweilers blackcombe-rottweilers. The breeder has produced several champion Rotts in the past years. Check out these breeders to see if they have Lab Rottweiler Mix for sale. Mixed breeds similar to Lab Rottweiler Mix You might also be interested to learn more about the other mixed breeds that are comparable with a Labrador Rottweiler. You can expect a Pitbull Lab Rottweiler Mix to be a medium to large dog with a stocky build. The colors of a Lab Pit Rottweiler Mix could be a mix of yellow, black, rust, and chocolate brown. A Pit Rott Lab Mix is similar to their parents in terms of athleticism, thus, a Lab Rottweiler Pitbull Mix is best suited for a family that loves the outdoors. If the headstrong quality of the Rottweiler or Pitbull parent is more dominant, be prepared because a Lab Pitbull Rottweiler Mix may have a strong alpha personality that may act domineering if not handled well by the owners. Is a Pit Rottweiler Lab Mix an aggressive dog? If the Rottweiler Pitbull Lab Mix puppies are taught how to respect authority, then a Black Lab Rottweiler Pitbull Mix is a good dog that is sweet and affectionate like the Labrador yet very protective like a Lab Rottweiler. Some Labradoodle and Rottweiler Mix may sport short and curly hair while others may inherit the straight hair of a Labrador. One thing is for sure and that is that this is a designer dog that is adorable and bursting with sweetness. Based on the size of these three 3 purebreds, we can safely say that a Shepherd Lab Rottweiler Mix is a large-sized dog that is athletic and zestful. The colors of Rottweiler shepherd Lab Mix puppies vary from black, cream, rusty red, and chocolate brown. Most likely, a Shepherd Rottweiler Lab Mix is double-coated that sheds during springtime. Hence, we cannot say that a Rottweiler Shepherd Lab Mix is hypoallergenic. Is a Lab Rottweiler Shepherd Mix a good family dog? Yes, the Lab Rottweiler Shepherd Mix is a good family dog for as long as you train him early on. If he socialized properly and trained early on, he can be a great and affectionate furry family member. The Rottweiler Labrador German Shepherd is an active and large dog breed that can come in many colors. By the same token, a German Shepherd Lab Rottweiler Mix can also sport a two-tone coat color or even a three-tone coat color. One thing is certain though and that is the high-energy level of the Lab Rottweiler German Shepherd Mix. The German Shepherd Lab and Rottweiler Mix is undoubtedly a very trainable dog who loves to please his owners. You can, but it may not be as easy. Dog owners are encouraged to look into rescue centers where there are a good number of mixed dog breeds for sale. An Australian Shepherd Rottweiler Lab Mix could have a short or medium-length coat that is double-coated. The beautiful coat comes in different shades that can range from black, yellow, blue merle, red merle, or red. The Aussie Rottweiler Lab Mix puppy is an active little creature that requires a huge space to use up his high-energy levels. You can probably find Aussie Rottweiler Lab Mix puppy for sale in rescue or adoption centers near you. This dog may be small to medium in size but he will have a lot of energy. A Lab Husky Rottweiler Mix may not be an easy find but be sure that you have the stamina to keep up with the highly energetic Rottweiler Husky Lab Mix. A Lab Boxer Rottweiler Mix has a short coat that comes in an array of colors. Mastiff Rottweiler Lab Mix A hybrid dog that is large but may not be as athletic. Border Collie Lab Rottweiler Mix A large dog with a strong herding instinct that is good for families with older children. Rottweiler Golden Retriever Lab Mix One of the sweetest and most affectionate hybrid dogs that you can find.
how much do german shepherd puppies eat a day - How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Since puppies have a lot of growing to do, they require plenty of calories. You can reduce the amount of food per pound of body weight until they reach standard adult measurements. The specific amount of food to feed a German Shepherd can vary because different dogs are sized differently and have various needs and levels of athleticism. To learn more about specific foods and ingredients, check out this article on the best diet for German Shepherds. Three to four meals of puppy food a day is ideal for a month-old German Shepherd, as the food will be easily digestible and keep the energy high throughout the day. Feeding a puppy 1—2 large meals might make them feel sick, or they may be unable to finish it all at once. When it comes to how much food to give a 1—4 month-old German Shepherd, the recommended amount is approximately one cup g or a little more, depending on activity levels per meal. Be sure to spread meals evenly throughout the day, and avoid feeding your puppy before bedtime. The West Greenwich Animal Hospital recommends not feeding a dog three hours before bedtime because they may need to go out for a toilet break at night. Since their stomachs and bodies are getting bigger, they can generally handle fewer large meals than more small ones. So, you can reduce the number of puppy food meals to 2 or 3. Since the number of meals is reduced, increase the amount of food per serving to approximately 1. The meals should be spread evenly throughout the day to ensure your German Shepherd has consistent energy levels. My German Shepherd Willow at 4 months old 10 to 12 Months At 10—12 months, a German Shepherd begins to mature as its body continues growing. Split approximately 4—5 cups —1, g of food between two meals. However, this is just a recommendation — as mentioned previously, your dog may require more or less than this depending on their activity levels. Keeping the amount of food at cups , g per day may be sufficient, or it may be best to start feeding your dog more or less than this. For example, many active or working German Shepherds may benefit from 6 cups 1. Again, the specific amount is circumstantial. However, some dog owners make the switch earlier. Honestly, this is the issue with every new pet parent. Below is a German Shepherd feeding chart to help you learn more about giving your pooch the right amount of food at the right time. Remember, the below are simply recommendations, so specific amounts can vary by dog and activity level. Age Amount of food per day Amount of servings per day months 3—4 cups — g spread across multiple servings 3—4 3—4. Always check the packaging of the food you buy for a more detailed analysis. There are endless dog food options, so making the right choice can be challenging and stressful. The main protein source is chicken, and it promotes immune system health and digestive performance. Suitable for puppies up to 15 months, this dog food is the perfect solution for young German Shepherds with lots of growing to do! One of the main benefits of this food is that it comes in different sizes, including a pound 6. This dog food contains all the nutrients a German Shepherd puppy needs to grow and thrive. Blue Buffalo dog food has real chicken, fruits, and vegetables, so your pooch will surely enjoy the delicious taste! It comes in two flavors — a chicken meal with oats and a lamb meal with brown rice. Either contains enough high-quality protein to ensure your pup can grow as healthily as possible. Medium-sized dog breeds can continue eating puppy food until 18 months. Like with puppy food, there are many adult German Shepherd dog food options, so choosing the right one can be challenging. Check out some of my below recommendations to make your search a little easier. Best Breed Dr. Best Breed Dog Food aids digestion as it contains a blend of soluble and insoluble fiber. According to a study, musculoskeletal disorders and the inability to stand are the two most common causes of death in German Shepherds. Since puppies need specific nutrients to grow, their food differs greatly from adult dog food. Puppies especially need protein because it aids with the growth and development of cells. Without adequate protein in the diet , puppies are more susceptible to serious health issues, including: Weight and muscle loss General weakness Chest and abdomen issues German Shepherds can continue eating puppy food for the first year of life and beyond. Usually, 16—18 months is a good time for a dog to start eating adult food. The most important thing to remember is that adult food is never the right choice for a German Shepherd puppy that still has much growing to do. However, there are many other factors to consider when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd, like their general weight and activity levels. Weight and Size The weight of your German Shepherd will determine how much to feed it. The general rule of thumb is that the heavier your dog is, the more food it needs to stay fueled. The average adult German Shepherd is around .Pay attention to the general height and size of your German Shepherd to determine exactly how much food to feed them. For example, an underweight German Shepherd will need extra food to get back to a healthy weight, whereas an overweight one will need less food. As you can imagine, a highly energetic dog will need more food than a German Shepherd that lies around all day. If your German Shepherd is still relatively young, i. Health Health issues can affect the way a dog eats. For example, a dog with stomach issues might avoid food altogether. Other health conditions that affect how much a dog can eat include: Pancreatitis Infections Cancer Consider whether your dog is experiencing health issues when feeding them. For instance, if your dog is shedding too much, you need to change a diet that minimizes shedding. Age The age of a German Shepherd helps determine how much food should be eaten and how often. For example as mentioned earlier , younger dogs must eat smaller meals spread evenly throughout the day, while older dogs can have 2 larger meals. A vet can weigh your German Shepherd, ask questions, and listen to the heartbeat to determine a healthy diet plan. As Willow is now a senior dog, I like to take her for vet checkups every 6 months. In many cases, giving puppies homemade food over long periods can cause health issues down the line. A study by the National Library of Medicine concluded that a homemade diet given by the owner caused a puppy to experience various health issues, including vitamin D deficiency and NSH nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism. You can give a small treat here and there, but human food should never make up the entire diet of a puppy. Below are some tasty examples! Eggs Not only are eggs beneficial for humans, but they can also be good for dogs if given in moderation. German Shepherds puppies and adults will receive plenty of nutrients from eggs, including protein and fats. The best and easiest way to give a German Shepherd an egg is to hard boil it. Avoid feeding a German Shepherd or any dog fried eggs too often due to the excessive oil. Hard-boiled eggs are usually the easiest for dogs to eat, but you can also try poached or scrambled eggs. Examples of dog-friendly fruits include: Bananas. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.
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how much do german shepherd puppies eat a day - When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Well-bred Labradors are relatively low maintenance, fit and healthy dogs. But your Labradors continuing health and well-being does depend entirely on you. A nutritious diet, regular exercise, grooming, preventive measures and regular visits to the vet are the real key to maintaining a high level of wellness and good health. All these actions are your responsibility and solely under your control. Daily routines will be diet control, exercise and physical inspections. Weekly routines will be grooming, ears, eyes, teeth and nail care. Quarterly routines could be shared between visits to the vet, a canine dentist and bathing. And the annual routine will be vaccinations. Just remember that prevention is always better than cure, so doing your best to prevent any illness and catching problems at the earliest possible stage is the goal to aim for. The following are all areas where you only need a little knowledge to effectively take care of your Labrador well. And if you cannot dedicate this time and effort, then in the nicest possible way, you might be better suited to a pet with less demanding care requirements such as goldfish. Making Safe Your Home and Garden Labradors are a lively and inquisitive breed, especially during their first three years so you need to keep dangerous household items out of their reach. Conceal electrical wiring…we all know of their infamous love for chewing. Sharp teeth and electricity do not mix! A Labrador can easily choke on wrappings or trash that may be swallowed along with edible scraps. Labs are smart and opening cupboards and drawers soon becomes easy for them. Be mindful of the toxicity of certain plants — Over plants have been identified as toxic to dogs , so be sure to research any plant before bringing it into your home. Fence of any ponds or pools in your yard. These are just a few points to consider around your home and garden, there are many more. Just try to put yourself in your Labradors shoes and take a good look at his environment as he would see it. Try to see how he could get into trouble and take measures to prevent it. Click here for a more detailed guide on puppy-proofing your home and garden. Brushing also helps to shake loose dirt out of and spread the natural oils throughout their coat for that desirable, healthy glossy look we know and love. Related article: The Best vacuums for removing pet hair from your home. Frequent baths will strip their oils, leaving them prone to wet and cold in winter, causing dry skin and making their coat look dull and not shiny. Keeping Nails Trim Most Labradors will need a nail trim every 2 to 3 months, although some may never need it. Regularly walking your dog on hard ground, especially sidewalks and roads, will have a natural filing effect and keep your dogs claws in order. This can make them sore and bleed. Ear Care What with a Labradors slightly drooping ears and their love of water, the inside of their ears can sometimes retain too much moisture, causing bacteria to build up and infections to form. I shall be writing an article on this very soon. Just some of the problems a Labrador may have with its teeth are gum disease, loose teeth, cracked or broken teeth, root abscesses and a build up of tartar. These can be very uncomfortable for your dog and can lead to further problems if neglected. Therefore, you need to inspect their teeth regularly, take measures to clean their teeth and even visit a professional canine dentist every 6 months or annually for a thorough check up and any necessary treatments. Treat their teeth like you would your own. Dealing with Parasites Controlling fleas, ticks and other parasites is essential for keeping your Labrador healthy. Immediate problems include extreme irritation and skin sores, but extreme infestations can lead to more dangerous problems including Lyme disease and tape worms. If you stick to a regular grooming schedule as you should! Simply brush your hand against the lie of your Labradors fur and watch for any small moving dots and check for any clearly visible ticks. There are many safe and effective over-the-counter flea control products , many of which contain formulations to prevent ticks at the same time. Finally, depending on where you live in the world, you may need to put your Labrador on medication for heartworm. Where mosquitoes are a problem, they can pass on heartworm and this can be fatal. Even the medicine for heartworm makes your dog very ill so prevention is definitely better than cure! Diseases such as distemper, rabies, hepatitis and parvoviros to name just a few. Your puppy will have had his first shots at five or six weeks before you got to take him home, and he will need a few further shots over a period of up to 18 weeks. A rabies shot usually follows at 6 months of age or so. After this, your adult Labrador will need just a single booster each year to stay protected. For many facts on vaccinations and the schedule you should follow when vaccinating your puppy, please click here. Dogs need a balance of vitamins, minerals, fats and proteins different to that of a human and feeding them on human leftovers can lead to malnutrition, as can a diet based on cheap filler packed dog food. You should perform a little research to find and use a recognized healthy brand of dog food that will cater to your Labradors needs. To help with this, please see our articles that list 4 of the best foods for Labrador puppies opens in new window or the best dog foods for adult Labradors opens in new window …yours really will thrive on these handpicked, quality foods! Additionally, the best thing you can do is set up a feeding schedule for your dog, twice per day being the recommended, and be mindful of any extra treats. Your Lab should always be well fed but not over-fed. I shall discuss this more in a later article. An Important Note On Drastic Changes In Eating And Drinking Habits If your dog is off their food, drinks way too much or way too little for a period of time more than 36 hours, you should call your vet as this is almost surely a sign of an underlying problem. They are voracious eaters and will eat just because they can, not because they need it. Excess weight can lead to all sorts of issues including arthritis and heart problems. To prevent this, control their diet and give them plenty of exercise for them to burn off those calories. They really do need very little exercise of just a few short minutes a couple of times per day. Too much exercise for a puppy can cause skeletal formation issues and plays a large part in joint problems. Take it easy until your puppy is at least a year old. Bedding and Shelter A Labrador should always have a soft surface to lay upon. To prevent this you should get your Lab a large sized dog bed or line a crate to offer a soft and comfortable place to rest. If your Lab spends any amount of time outside, you must provide shelter to offer an escape from the sun in summer, and preferably the shelter should have a raised floor so the wet and cold is kept away in winter. If your Lab puppy gets used to sleeping in a bed of yours or your children, it will be a hard habit to break and will more than likely end in separation anxiety and night-time whining. You want your Labrador to be comfortable alone for periods of time and should start forming this habit ASAP. Training The importance of training your Labrador cannot be overstated. A dog is a dog and not a human. You need to teach your dog how to behave and what your instructions are asking them to do. Before a puppy can become a trusted, well-behaved dog they have a lot of learning to do…and you a lot of teaching! To learn from the written word, I am part way through building the ultimate resource in the form of this site. Routines for feeding, exercise, grooming and visits to the vet are all easily managed with a little knowledge and by planning a schedule in advance and sticking to it. Spending quality time with your Lab is also key, especially regular grooming sessions. You should also attempt to learn your dogs normal living habits, how much he eats, drinks and sleeps. Anything To Add? As always, if you have any questions, would like to offer feedback, suggestions or further advice on the subject, please do so in the comments section below. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Non-slip bottom dog dishes Puppies naturally move their dish around as they are eating, especially if the dish has a flat bottom that easily pushes around the floor. We have found that dishes with a non-slip bottom can help so that your puppy is not chasing around his food dish. Make sure that it is large enough. And since dogs grow fast, that means they will likely grow to that size within a year to a year and a half. Almost all dogs we train eat between 4 -6 cups of dog food a day. So, make sure that your dish is large enough to accommodate this many cups. Water dish It is vitally important that your puppy have access to clean water for drinking. With the puppies we raise, we have found that it can be challenging to keep a small water dish full, so we prefer to use these 2-gallon water dishes. They are easy to fill and allow us to only have to fill them a couple times a week instead of several times a day. We suggest that you introduce a lead to your puppy as they start to grow in confidence and walk further from you when outside. There are two great reasons to do this early on. First it teaches your puppy how to handle the pressure of not being able to go wherever they want whenever they want. And it keeps your puppy from developing a habit of running away from you. A Flexi-lead works especially well if you want to give your puppy a little more freedom to go do his potty business but still keep control. Toys Puppies need toys. If you do not give them toys that they CAN chew and play with, they will chew on your sofa leg, or a book or a blanket or anything else they can find. So, purchase some good durable puppy chew toys. But watch your pup carefully. As they get older and stronger, they will be able to rip apart cloth toys and ingest them. Or they will chew rubber toys into small pieces and eat them. When your pup gets strong enough to destroy toys, it is time to take away the puppy toys and give them only dog toys designed for older , larger dogs or quality rawhides that they can chew that will not cause digestive problems. Stay away from rope toys. Many puppies have managed to ingest strings and ropes requiring surgery to remove them. Puppy-sized bumper If your plan is for your Labrador puppy to become a hunting or competition dog, you should have a puppy sized bumper. Learn more about teaching your puppy to fetch in this post. Barriers I recommend that you section off a small portion of your home and not let your puppy have full run of the entire house. Learn more about housebreaking your Lab puppy in this post. To section off a part, it can be helpful to have some child-gates available or an area of your home that you can close doors. This means that you need to show your puppy where the boundaries are and what is and is not allowed. To do this, you will need a few more tools. This is often when we see dogs that are running away from their owners, playing keep-a-way when retrieving and just basically being naughty. A lot of this could be avoided with the use of a check cord. Yes, a check cord can be cumbersome and often a pain to use, but it only takes one or two times of your puppy running away from you to make it worth it. Put a check cord on your puppy and allow them to drag it around with them. This alone is a great lesson for a dog. Dragging the weight is a type of pressure that they will need to learn to deal with. Occasionally, step on the rope and allow your dog to feel the pressure of being stopped and controlled. These sound like such minor things, but you would be surprised how much more well-adjusted your puppy will be just from learning these minor lessons. Chain or prong collar As your puppy gets stronger, it will get more and more difficult to control your puppy with a lead just hooked up to a nylon collar. As you notice that your puppy is getting harder to control, is pulling you around or dragging you down the street, you need to move to a chain or prong collar. Actually, it would be best if you changed to a chain or prong collar long before this becomes an issue. Remember, it is always easier to fix problems when they are small rather than waiting for them to become huge problems. Larger bumpers for retrieving dogs As your dog gets larger, you will want to move away from the puppy bumper and start using regular sized retrieving bumpers. We prefer to use plastic or rubber bumpers since they do not get as dirty or smelly as the canvas ones. They also last a lot longer and can be used for both water and land retrieves. Learn all about the different bumpers used for training hunting dogs here. Orange is a color that is difficult for retrievers to see, so that color should not be used for young dogs that are just learning about retrieving and hunting. Save the orange ones for advanced dogs working on blind retrieves. Final thoughts on What do I need to buy for a Lab puppy? There are many things that you will need for your new puppy both now and in the future. Take some time to prepare before you bring your puppy home so that you will avoid buying things on impulse that you may or may not need. If you are planning on using your puppy as a hunting or competition dog, check out 6 vital tools every gun dog trainer needs. You can email me at ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. What do I need to buy for a Lab puppy? They help you find the information you need right now. You might also want to check out our sections on Labrador Puppy Training. Do let us know what you would like to see added to the site. We are always happy to have your comments and suggestions. When To Collect Your Puppy We highly recommend that puppies are not removed from their breeder until they are 8 weeks old. There are lots of good reasons for this. It helps puppies develop good bite moderation skills before they are adopted into a family, ensures that they are ready to adapt quickly to their new life. And it helps to reduce the sad numbers of puppies bred for a quick profit. Puppies sold under seven weeks old often have health problems and need special care, and extra veterinary attention. Check out the following articles for further information: When can puppies leave their mother Your first puppy Your first puppy is a huge adventure. You have so much fun ahead. Labradors are generally very friendly dogs, but they can also be very distractible. So do start daily training games, using plenty of food. You can get regular training tips from Pippa by email, using the box below. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. Labrador Puppies Labrador puppies are a ball of fun. They are playful, cute, and always enjoy the company of children and adults. Labradors are not demanding dogs. They make ideal pets that are are amazing companion dogs that are always ready to follow their owner everywhere. If you are bringing a labrador puppy home this article is for you. Where do labradors originate from? The labrador breed of dog is originally from Newfoundland. They were later bred in the UK as hunting gun dogs. They are bred for their ability to retrieve, their friendly nature, and their ability to dominate field trials. A fully grown labrador is a large dog that lives for 12 to 13 years. Labradors are heavy dogs and weigh 80 pounds when fully grown. Female labradors weigh about 20 kilos less. Labradors come in three main colors I. Labradors have thick tails that are flat at the base and tapering at the edge. Labradors have a short dense coat. In this article, we will prepare you for when you bring a labrador puppy home. Nutritional needs and how to feed a labrador Labradors have a varying diet depending on the age of the puppy. At 2 to 6 months Labrador puppies are able to eat started dry food. Choose a brand of puppy food that is rich in the nutrition that puppies need. At months your dog will start to eat like an adult. You can also feed your dog thin strips of raw red meat or cooked chicken boneless with veggies. What alternative food can you feed your puppy other than kibble? There are a number of types of healthy dog food that you can feed your dog other than kibble. These foods can be meats, veg, and cooked food. Cooked chicken with the bones removed is healthy and tasty food for dogs. Dogs love the taste of eggs and it makes an ideal puppy food. Feed your dogs scrambled as they are rich in protein and are easy to digest for your puppy. Oatmeal for dogs is rich in fiber and helps your dog have a regular bowel movement. What are the concerns of feeding a puppy raw food? Raw food can be a risky proposition when feeding your dogs. Raw foods may contain bacteria that are a health risk to both humans and your puppy. An unbalanced diet of raw food can affect the health of your dog. It is for this reason that vets recommend kibble or feeding your dog cooked meats like chicken. How to choose the right food for your dog The correct food for your puppy should take up all its nutritional needs and ensure the health of your pet. Look out for good quality food that has the nutritional benefits for your dog printed on it. Such food should also contain proteins and minerals. Feeding your puppy in his crate The crate is the home for your puppy in the first few months of its life. Your puppy plays and grows older in its crate. Feeding your puppy in its crate increases its attachment to its living space. When feeding your puppy in its crate ensure that you have put the food all the way to the back of the crate. Choosing the proper food and water bowls Choose a food and water bowl for your puppy that is heavy and does not move around. Ensure that your puppy has separate bowls for food and water. Plastic bowls are an inexpensive option for your puppy bowl. Stainless steel bowls are also good as they do not break and are easy to rinse. Keeping your puppy at the proper weight Labrador puppies love to eat and for this reason, may become overweight quite easily. Ensure that you feed your puppy only twice a day with nutritious meals that are rich in all the various nutrients. Do not overfeed your puppy. A puppy needs only grams of food per sitting. Do not feed your puppy if it is asking for food between meals. Labrador puppies are known to be voracious eaters. Washing Your Labrador retriever Labrador puppies do not need a bath very often as they may fall sick. It is ideal to wash your puppy only once every 2 months. Use a mild dog shampoo when washing your puppy. So not use human shampoo as this may dry the skin of your puppy. A puppy has natural oils in its coat and this gets washed away when you shampoo your puppy. So, be aware of the specific bathing needs of your puppy. It protects its health and lets it grow up to be a big and strong dog. Taking care of a Labrador so that he is happy Labradors are jolly dogs that often wag their tail and like to be happy. In order to keep your labrador dog happy ensure that it gets a lot of fresh air and exercise. Taking care of Labrador so that he is happy Take your dog out for a walk once a day for at least an hour. You can play fetch with your puppy or have it follow you around. You can also teach your dog how to respond to its name and come when called. Buy your pet fun toys to play with when at home or outside. Labrador puppies love toys that they can play with. Praise your puppy often and give it a lot of love and attention. Take your puppy for walks and carry puppy snacks with you for when your puppy does a good deed. Remember, lots of love creates a happy labrador. Vaccinations It is extremely important to vaccinate your puppy after bringing her home from the pet store. There are a number of illnesses that may affect your dog if you do not vaccinate it on time. The vaccinations that your dog will need to prepare its health are as follows: Canine Parvovirus. Canine Distemper. The ideal weight for a labrador puppy at 3 months is 25 lbs and at 6 months that weight will be 50 Lbs. On average a Labrador puppy will gain two pounds of each week of weight. If your puppy is picking up weight to fast try and cut down its below meals snack and ensure that you are feeding your dog the ideal amount of food. Daily Exercise A puppy that has daily exercise is a happy puppy. Your puppy should exercise at least once a day with a walk that is nearly an hour long. Having not enough exercise may cause your dog health issues like joint problems, weight gain, and other health issues. Exercising your dog not just keeps it healthy but also helps you develop a bond with your pet. Training your labrador puppy Owing to the size of the labrador breed training your dog later in life can be daunting as they are large and excitable dogs. Instead start training your dog at an early age. You can start training your dog from 6 to 12 weeks old. Training sessions should be fun. You can start toilet training your dog at this age. You can also start with simple commands such as getting your dog to follow when you call it and teaching your dogs commands such as sit and fetch. Reward behavior that you want to encourage in your dog. Dealing with parasites No matter how much you take care of your dog it may get parasites like fleas, ticks, and tapeworms. If this is the case you should give your dog a bath using medicated shampoos to care for your dog. You can also give your dog a deworming pill to get rid of any internal parasites. Visit a vet at least once every two months. Take him or her to the vet immediately so that it may get the proper medical care it needs.