how to train a french bulldog puppy

We have answers. French Bulldogs come in all shapes and sizes, each with their own unique coat and color combination. From the traditional brindle to the more rare cream or white, there is a French Bulldog out there for everyone. And with different coat markings such as black masks, ticked coloring, piebald spots, white markings and brindle patches, you're sure to find one that catches your eye. So come on down and meet your new best friend today! Are French Bulldog puppies Bakersfield working dogs? Today, Frenchies are known for being gentle, loving companions. However, they are also known for being stubborn and lazy! But that's all part of their charm. If you're looking for a low-maintenance dog who will still shower you with affection, a French Bulldog for sale Bakersfield is the perfect pup for you. How much exercise does a French Bulldog Bakersfield need? Dogs need regular exercise, even lazy dogs like a French Bulldog for sale in Bakersfield. How long you should walk your French Bulldog depends on the dog's energy level. A lack of exercise is one of the top causes of destructive and negative behavior in dogs. So, walk your dog regularly to keep them happy and healthy. When I get a Bakersfield French Bulldog for sale, will he or she snore? French Bulldogs may be small, but they sure can pack a snore. Their cute little faces may deceive you, but don't let that fool you - their snoring can be quite powerful. Although some Frenchies snore less than others, chances are your Frenchie will snore often and loudly. So if you're looking for a silent sleep partner, a French Bulldog may not be the best choice. Do Bakersfield French Bulldogs for sale shed? Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, but if you're looking for a pup that won't leave your furniture and clothing covered in hair, Bakersfield French Bulldog puppies for sale are a great choice. These dogs have short, fine hair that sheds minimally, so you won't have to spend hours lint rolling your couch or vacuuming your floors. Are French Bulldogs for sale Bakersfield tails docked? If you're concerned about French Bulldog puppies for sale Bakersfield CA getting their tails docked, don't worry — these dogs are born with naturally stubby tails. There's no need to have their tails modified in any way. Embrace your pup's unique look, and get your French Bulldog puppies for sale in Bakersfield CA right here! Do French Bulldogs have a lot of health issues? While French Bulldogs may have shorter snouts than other dog breeds, this does not mean they are any less charming. In fact, many people believe that the shortened snout is part of the Frenchie's appeal. However, shorter snouts can be riskier than longer ones — especially if the pup's breeder is not experienced or reputable. Good breeders always work to minimize health risks for their dogs. Can Frenchies handle hot weather? As the weather heats up, it's important to remember that our furry friends rely on panting to cool off—unlike humans. However, due to their shortened airways, Frenchies are inefficient at this cooling method and require extra care on the hottest days of summer. Make sure your pup has access to air conditioning to help them stay comfortable and safe. Are Frenchies popular? Looking for a pup that will make all the other dog owners jealous? Look no further than the French Bulldog. These pups are not only adorable and full of personality, but they are also one of the most popular breeds in the world. What is a fluffy French Bulldog? The French Bulldog is a popular breed of dog that is known for its short, fine hair. However, there are some Frenchies that have a recessive gene that gives them long, fluffy hair. These dogs are becoming more popular with breeders, but they are still quite rare. If you are looking for a fluffy Frenchie, be prepared to search high and low. Why are French Bulldogs so awesome? Well, have you seen one recently? French Bulldogs have got to be some of the most unique looking dogs on the planet. Are Frenchies good travel companions? Sounds like the perfect travel companion to us! Call Now! French Bulldogs are an incredibly popular breed in the United States and are known to be one of the most loyal breeds to their owners. If you're looking for a companion with a squishy face, look no further! Our Mission at Beautifully Made Frenchies is to create and provide nurtured, healthy, and happy French Bulldog puppies. Ethical, responsible breeding and selling is our core value. Our pups are raised in an open home and slowly socialized so we know that they are ready to enter their new world. We also believe in ensuring that your new puppy is safe and prepared to be re-homed, that is why your puppy will be vaccinated and de-wormed before you take over as Mom or Dad. Our Frenchies are raised at home and receive the utmost care, affection, freedom, and exercise every day. Needless to say, our Frenchies are pampered. Our pups are fed top-quality puppy food that provides all of the necessary nutrients a growing puppy needs. As America's most popular dog breed, French Bulldog puppies can be a great addition to your family. We consider our Frenchies our babies, and we know you will too. Contact Us Today to get on our Waitlist for your new furry friend! Excercise Our French Bulldogs love to get outside! We walk our Frenchies daily to keep them strong, healthy, and happy. We provide all pet vaccination documents for your records. Nutrition Our Frenchies and pups only eat the highest quality dog food, packed with the right vitamins and minerals to support a healthy lifestyle. Mini is our beloved one-year-old French Bulldog who is, and will always be, the star of the show! Born in Salinas, California, Mini has recently been adopted into our home in Bakersfield. Mini has expressed her joy in going on daily walks and taking baths! She is playful, active, intelligent, obedient, and a professional cuddler. Mini is polite and makes it known when she needs attention, and there's nothing like a belly scratch or a few rounds of fetch that won't satisfy her. Mike is born and raised in Bakersfield, California. Like Mini, Mike has a strong passion for going on walks, interacting with other dogs, and deep-tissue massages. Mike is an adventurous and curious dog that loves engaging with people and all animals. Mike loves his treats and his freedom to express his personality! Why Choose A Frenchie? A French Bulldog has the ability to catch any dog lover's eye! French Bulldogs are known to be incredibly cuddly, loving, and need plenty of attention. They make the perfect companion to anyone who is ready for great responsibility. French Bulldogs thrive in the presence of humans and crave the security of being warm and snuggled. French Bulldogs are gentle, loving, affectionate, playful and make the perfect addition to any family household. Besides our French Bulldogs and puppies being stylish, they are acknowledged as appealing lapdogs. They love spending time on their owner's lap. French Bulldogs show closeness and desire for their owners, granting the ultimate friendship for you and your family, friends, or spouse. If you're ready to accept the tenderness French Bulldog puppies offer, you've come to the right place! Our puppies are bred in Bakersfield and will be ready for the life that awaits with you.

This non-profit organization has rescued over dogs throughout the years with the help of over 30 volunteers. As a non-profit organization, every donation you make goes straight into supporting the rescue dogs to get a better life. Secondhand Mutts — Social Dogs Pick My favorite thing about Secondhand Mutts is that they ensure their dogs can socialize in a daycare environment without cages. Their adoptable dogs are fostered in real homes, so your adopted dog will already be familiar with living in a home and household items. On top of that, to prevent overpopulation, their dogs are spayed or neutered. Additionally, their dogs are fully vaccinated, groomed, and temperature-tested before adoption. Much like Dogs Unlimited Rescue, Secondhand Mutts tries to match the right dog to the most suitable house based on their personalities, needs, and more. Also, they keep the dogs socializing with each other without cages. Before going to the first place that claims to have Labradoodles up for adoption, there are a few factors that you have to consider. Adoption Fees Some adoption fees can be as low as a few dollars, and others can cost thousands. So, before settling on a resume shelter, check their website or call them and ask about the adoption fees or any additional fees you might have to pay. Serving Policy Some organizations operate in a first-come, first-served policy, while others try to match the perfect dog to the owner based on their personalities and needs. The Ohio Valley Labradoodles specializes in saving Labradoodles and finding them forever homes. In addition, they provide the dogs with utmost care and medical attention whenever needed. Heritage Manor is another organization that focuses on Australian Labradoodles. Lastly, The Sanctuary specializes in senior dogs because potential adopters often overlook them. So, if you want to give some love to a senior dog that needs a forever home, this is the place to go. Sharing is caring! A Labradoodle breed has been prevalent. They have this teddy-bear-like feature that makes everybody want to get their hands on it. Adopting a Labradoodle is more enriching than buying. You can also save money if you choose to adopt and rehome a Labradoodle than buy one. This is just one reason why it is better to adopt a dog than to buy one. Choosing A Good Labradoodle Rescue If you are planning to adopt a Labradoodle from Labradoodle rescue, there are some things that you might need to know in picking a good Labradoodle rescue. There are so many Labradoodle rescues globally, but not all of them are reputable and have quality. In finding good and quality rescue, here are some things that you can look for in a rescue. Of course, their main objective is to take care of the animals and make sure that they are healthy until they have been found in a new home. These criteria can be reflected through the status of their animals. You can look if the animals are well taken care of and if they are adequately groomed. If the organization is good, they will attend adoption events and even conduct their own. This is to allow awareness of the people. If the rescue cannot allow any more animals in their facility, they will not do it. A good rescue cares for the animals and not for the money. You can check if the staff are friendly and are accommodating by talking to them. They will be happy to assist you and answer your questions. Some people felt overwhelmed entering a dog rescue because they all want to adopt each dog in the facility. This guide is what you should look for when picking a Labradoodle rescue for you and your family. You can look for well-groomed dogs, good and healthy-looking hair, and a dog with so much energy. Pick a dog that is not aggressive. You want to pick a dog that is friendly and open with its possible new owner. Pick a friendly Labradoodle A friendly Labradoodle is easy to take care of. A shy dog will cost you more time and attention because they will not respond to you. You will have to coax them to be comfortable with you. Summary Choosing Labradoodle puppies in Labradoodle shelters is quite hard. You need to find a trusting Labradoodle rescue to find the perfect Labradoodle. The list will help you with your problem. The guide was provided on picking the excellent Labradoodle rescue and Labradoodle for you and your family. Other States. Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.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? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat. ALL our dogs reside in foster homes in TX. Please fill out an adoption application found at haydudeequine. Ravena ia a rare name first used in Australia. There is a great strength of character in the name Ravena. The name is also known to be associated with generosity, being kindhearted and well as having wisdom and compassion. That's a big name to live up to, but I'm ready to try my hardest! At around 4 months of age, I'm your typical full of life puppy that is ready to play, eat, play, sit for a moment while I contemplate what to explore next , take a nap and then play some more. I will need that daily exercise and playtime but with that in I should do fine in town with a yard, out in the country or anywhere in between. I get along marvelously with my siblings and the other foster pups here and would just love a home with a playful sibling. What better way to spend the day then tormenting, ooops did I say that out loud, I meant playing with them, chasing each other around the yard, playing tug with the toys. That's what dreams are made of!! I will be a nice medium size when I get fully growed up. Perfect for those outdoor adventures like strolls in the neighborhood or to the local coffee shop, hiking and camping trips, trips to the doggie park, river excursions or what ever you think up, I'm game to give it a try! And we'll have a blast doing it.But I'll also be that perfect size to cuddle on the couch. At my age I'm at that sponge stage, soaking up.I'd be a pawsome candidate for obedience classes and might even really enjoy some agility classes or learning to play some games with you like hike and seek. With my gorgeous good looks and happy loving life to the fullest attitude, I'll make a great family addition, I just need YOU! These siblings include Ravena, River, Renata and Rocco. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Cincinnati Ohio and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted.

We are located in New Durham, New Hampshire. We have been in business for 11 years. Because of our love for American Bulldogs, we want to breed great companions and provide them a forever home. However, most are a hybrid mix between the two bloodlines. We do this in order to bring out the best in both. We also enjoy the many different shapes, sizes and colors this breed comes in. We have established a fourth generation Morrison's American Bulldog bloodline, with no future plans to retire. This is a family business and our children regularly express their desire to help grow us in their future. So we hope you enjoy watching us continue to grow and place our efforts towards producing a more happier, healthier lovable dog! Our dogs are raised around other animals and are well-socialized. They are protectors of our family while also trustworthy around our small children. We actually did not consider ourselves "dog people" until after we met her. After we brought Madison home we quickly fell in love with her sweet, smart and loving personality. She was always gentle around our young children and protected them. After we had her for a few years we knew that her bloodline had to be continued to share her love and joy to other families. When we decided to breed her we loved every moment of her pregnancy and delivery. After we announced her litter we met the amazing American Bulldog community and never looked back. Sharing the joy that Madison brought to our family is something we desire to share with other families. We used to not be "dog people" but now we could not picture our lives without them. Being able to breed, meet new people, see the puppies grow and bring joy to families is what keeps us going. Welcome to Morrison's American Bulldogs. You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting an English Bulldog, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to English Bulldogs". It's written in an easy-to-understand way but still has the expert knowledge to help any new owner successfully raise their Bulldog from puppy to old-age. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon, or you can download the audiobook version here. If you can't find the perfect Bulldog puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many English Bulldogs young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos! Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in New Hampshire? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in New Hampshire work? Sadly, many of the top listed sites put more effort into marketing than actually upholding respectable standards of animal ethics. We do things differently, prioritizing ethics and professionalism above all else. We only ever work with proven, professional breeders, and businesses. What's the problem with puppy mills? If you want to find healthy French Bulldog puppies in New Hampshire and support ethical businesses, you should probably stay away from puppy mills. They're like dog factories, putting profits first and sacrificing the health of their animals in the process. Many pups purchased from mills have serious health issues and shorter life expectancies. Are French Bulldogs a good fit for small homes? If you live in an apartment or little home, a New Hampshire French Bulldog for sale could be just right for you. Many big dogs don't get on too well in small homes, but little Frenchies are the perfect size for apartment life. Just make sure that you are able to provide enough exercise and stimulation to your dog so that it won't get bored. What sort of dog is a French Bulldog? New Hampshire French Bulldogs for sale are instantly recognizable with their distinctive flat faces and stubby bodies, but they have pretty big characters on the inside! The average French Bulldog New Hampshire is a lively, fun-loving pup that enjoys playing games, learning new things, and snuggling up beside its friends. Why are French Bulldogs so pricey? If you want to find a New Hampshire French Bulldog puppy for sale, one of the most important things to know about this breed is that Frenchies can be quite expensive. This is because New Hampshire French Bulldog breeders have to spend more money breeding them in the first place due to their unique skeleton structure, and the costs add up over time, leading to higher price tags for the pups in the end. Are Frenchies intelligent dogs? French Bulldog puppies for sale New Hampshire will indeed surprise you with their intelligence! They can be a little bit goofy from time to time, but they also have a serious side and usually behave very obediently during the training process. This means that a French Bulldog for sale in New Hampshire can be strongly recommended to a first-time dog owner. Do French Bulldogs make good family pets? In fact, French Bulldogs for sale New Hampshire are one of the best choices out there for the average family. They're small and portable, making them well-suited for outdoor adventures and car journeys, and they have gentle, affectionate, kid-loving qualities that are just right for family life too. What are some common health issues associated with Frenchies? Sadly, as with other breeds, French Bulldogs for sale in New Hampshire can develop certain health issues throughout their lives. Due to their flat faces, French Bulldogs may suffer with snoring, snorting, and wheezing, and their little, stocky bodies can give them some spinal issues and joint problems later in life too. Buying your Frenchie from a trusted seller is the best way to find a healthy pup that should live for years on average. Can I only search with local Frenchie breeders? We usually recommend searching with local sellers to begin, as this simply makes it easier to meet the breeder and collect your French Bulldog for sale New Hampshire. However, the Uptown network stretches all across the US and you can buy from any of our featured Frenchie breeders. If your pup is too far to collect in person, the breeder will fly it over to an airport near you. How do you screen businesses selling French Bulldog? There are some amazing French Bulldog breeders New Hampshire, but there are also a shocking number of scammers and unethical breeders out there too. To help tell them apart, we make use of our super strict screening process. This way, users of the Uptown network can enjoy total peace of mind as they search for French Bulldog puppies New Hampshire from ethical, professional sellers.

Crating Philosophy When considering the natural habitation of a canine, often its home is a den, cave, or similar close-quartered shelter. They used this space as their home, to sleep, escape from danger, and raise their young. Obviously, your bulldog would not appreciate roughing it out in the wild. However, they still find comfort resting in a similar space. On some days, it feels like our bulldogs have decided to claim the entire house as their den. But, we know they find comfort and in their crate as an escape from the clamor of a busy house. Certainly, the crate can be a great tool and outlet for your bulldog IF used properly. As useful as crates can be they are often one of the most abused resources an adopter. There is much, unneeded controversy on using them that has stemmed from irresponsible dog owners abusing their purpose. As concerned bulldog breeders, we make sure to take the time to explain to our adopters the proper and improper uses of a crate. What a crate is to be used for… 1. For a further in-depth explanation of this process please read this previous article we wrote on the matter. We like to use the 4-hour rule at our house for an adult bulldog and the 2 hour limit for our puppies. Any time past these limits, we would seriously consider arranging someone dropping by the house to let them out and move around. Transporting your bully in the car A crate provides a safe place for your bully to travel with you in the car especially long trips. We have found they love to snooze in their crate when road-tripping with us. Sleeping Once your bully is completely potty trained it is ok to sleep outside the crate, but we have found they often prefer their crate as a place of comfort as they grow older. Escaping from too much commotion The crate should be a place that your bulldog voluntarily goes into; they should feel that the crate is their home! Crates are an escape haven for your bulldog when the house is busy and there is just too much commotion. They are amazing breeders, and the puppies are so beautiful and healthy. Chubba Chubba Choo is almost a 1. Jason and Michelle run a successful business with healthy pups that are loved from day one. I highly recommend them!!! His puppies are gorgeous and I promise your heart will tug at you to bring more than one home. The mama dogs were so happy, sweet, pretty and just wanted your attention. The puppies were adorable, healthy and competing for you to play with them. Not one of those dogs ignored you and didn't want to be the center of attention. You could tell they all had great personalities and were very social. Puppychase is Bulldog Heaven! I was very satisfied with the purchase of our puppy. The environment is clean, cool and does not smell. That's hard to accomplish with so many dogs. The Bulldogs are well cared for and the property shows they are a top priority. I can't imagine not being pleased with any dog from Puppychase. The only regrets I have are not being able to take more puppies and I wish I could have seen the male Bulldog in person. I didn't even think to ask. Maybe next time! I have had 3 Bulldogs from PuppyChase. Chester 13 yrs old, Henry 8, and Gus 15 wks. Chester died 2 wks ago. Jason is so knowledgeable and loves his Bulldogs. The health and personalities of his dogs are perfect! The hardest part is picking which one. He uses a flight nanny to ensure the safety of these little guys which allows families from all over U. S A to have a dog from PuppyChase. What a beautiful home and kennel he has in Georgia. Thank you Jason and Michelle! Keep up the great work with breeding English Bulldogs and giving families and experience of a lifetime of owning and loving these beautiful dogs!!! I would highly recommend. Jason and Michelle are dedicated to ensuring their pups and litters are taken care of! Their pups have the best disposition!! Exceptional customer service and will go above and beyond to accommodate your needs. New to the breed? Will definitely make our way back to PuppyChaseKennels. Preparing for an incoming Bulldog is no exception. In fact, it can be essential to dog training early on for your Bulldog. Not only do veterinarians agree, but there are also many proven benefits to crate training your Bulldog. Benefits of Using Dog Crates When used properly, dog crates are not only humane, but also teaches a puppy how to control their bladder and bowel. In addition, it could keep your teething pup in check. In the wild, dogs will look for small enclosed space for protection. The dog crate is a space they can feel safe and relaxed in. These are just some of the many benefits of crate training. Size of a Bulldog Hailing from the non-sporting dog group, Bulldogs are generally classified as medium-sized dogs. With that said, both female and male bulldogs can range between 12 and 16 inches tall. However, this number can be more or less depending on the parents. In regards to weight, there is more variation between gender. A female Bulldog can be anywhere from 40 to 50 pounds. On the other hand, a male Bulldog will likely range between 50 to 55 pounds — just slightly higher because of their thicker frame. Crate Size for Bulldogs Given the modest size of a Bulldog, the recommended dog crate size for them is 42 inches length by 30 inches width. This number can vary depending on how big your Bulldog is. I understand that most people buying dog crates are buying for a puppy. Like other dog breeds, Bulldogs grow fairly quick. In fact, Bulldogs reach their full adult size in just 10 months. Just let them grow into it. Top Dog Crates for Bulldogs Despite the Bulldog ranking on the list of top 10 most aggressive dog breeds , they are generally very calm dogs. It easily takes the number one spot and are great options for all dog breeds with a calm demeanor, such as the Bulldog. Best Features What I like best about the iCrate is their attention to dog-safety. Bulldogs are not weak dogs by any means. So, the iCrate comes with secured slide-bolt latches for extra security measures. This divider allows you to adjust the living space of the crate. Like with most crates, the iCrate has plastic removable plans that easily slides out from underneath the crate. Such a small feature will save you a ton of cleaning time! If you have limited space in the house, not to worry. The iCrate can be folded up in a matter of seconds. It makes it easy for transportation or storage. But if we had to nitpick, it would be the durability of the frame. However, unless you have an overly aggressive escape artist, this should be fine for most dogs. Check the price and see more reviews about the iCrate. English Bulldog. He has plenty of room to move around and get comfy. Very easy set up, it comes folded in a big box. All u gotta do is prop it up and you are ready to go. More Information Introduction The Bulldog, also known as the English or British Bulldog, is a medium-sized breed that has a distinctive wrinkled face and pushed in nose. As of , it is the fourth most popular breed in the United States. The Bulldog is known as courageous, friendly and calm. It got its name from being used in the 'sport' of bull baiting. This blood sport involved tethering a bull to an iron stake with approximately a foot lead radius. It was the job of the Bulldog to immobilize the bull by the nose and eventually pinning it. Thankfully, such barbaric practices are no longer required of today's Bulldog. Although owners and breeders still defend against the unfair perception that bulldogs are aggressive and vicious animals. Generally, Bulldogs get along well with children, other pets and dogs. It goes well with their patient nature. Bulldogs are medium-sized and medium energy companions. The Bulldog is known as expressive, yet dignified. Appearance The Bulldog has a smooth coat with a low-centered body, wide shoulders and a sturdy frame. Generally, it will have thick folds of skin, wide-set eyes, a flat nose, drooping lips and are known to come in up to 10 colors with 4 distinct markings Black mask, brindle markings, piebald, and white markings. Nutrition It is recommended to provide feed formulated to medium-sized breeds. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available. Grooming Bulldogs benefit from regular cleaning of their face and ears. This can be conveniently done with pet wipes at the ready. In order to avoid overgrowth, splitting or cracking, regular trimming or grinding is recommended. Exercise Bulldogs enjoy walks and require regular moderate exercise to stay healthy. This paired with a careful diet ensures that bulldogs have the best chance of living a full and happy life. Due to their short snout and difficulty breathing extreme humidity and heat should be spent in front of an air-conditioner rather than vigorously exercising. More Information Dimensions English Bulldogs weigh between forty to fifty pounds. Male English Bulldogs are heavier and will generally weigh an average of forty pounds whereas females will weigh about forty pounds. Bulldogs used for show purposes are likely to be as much as ten pounds heavier. The shoulder height of Bulldogs lies between twelve to fifteen inches and they are generally short animals. Persona This dog makes for a great watchdog because of its courageous nature. They do not bark and their appearance is enough to scare away any intruders. Sweet and lovable, Bulldogs have a dignified personality as opposed to a lively one and they are known to be stubborn at times. They get along easily with others and you can enhance this trait by exposing your English bulldog to different types of dogs and people. Though they are slow learners and take some time to train, once they have learned something it will stick and you will seldom find yourself teaching them something that you did a while ago. Their temperament will be influenced by a number of factors such as their heredity, socialization, and training. Thus, it is best for you to get a puppy which has been well bred. You can carry on the good work by giving it proper training and enrolling it in a puppy kindergarten. You can evaluate the temperament of your puppy by visiting its parents and siblings and you can choose a puppy with the temperaments that you prefer. Choosing a puppy in the middle ground, that is one that does not bully others or shy away, will help you shape your puppy into a well-rounded dog. Their inactive nature makes them suitable for various types of homes such as apartments as well as houses with yards. Health It is not always easy to tell what conditions that your bulldog might suffer from until it has reached two years. To be safe, get your dog from a reputable breeder to lessen the chances of getting a dog that is at a greater risk of contracting diseases such as entropion, cherry eye, hip dysplasia, and tail problems. Regular check-ups will go a long way in preventing most of the diseases that your dog is prone to. English Bulldog Protection It is imperative that you follow the right guidelines in the care of your dog to ensure that it lives a long, happy healthy life. Activity To prevent your Bulldog from gaining too much weight which can be problematic to its bone structure, ensure that it gets about fifteen minutes of exercise a day. Due to their inactive nature, they get tired easily and after those fifteen minutes, they will be ready to take a nap. Do not engage them in too much exercise though. A stroll up and down the street will serve your dog just fine. Weather Bulldogs have faces that are pushed in and as such, they do not do well in extreme temperatures. When they are exposed to high temperatures, they breathe very heavily as they are not able to dissipate heat efficiently. This makes them prone to suffering from heatstroke. If it is hot, ensure that your bulldog is in an environment with adequate air conditioning because if it spends as little as half an hour in high temperatures of about eighty-five degrees, it can die. Ensure that they have a lot of water by them in such hot temperatures to help them stay hydrated. Training Bulldogs are quite slow learners and for you to train them effectively, make the training sessions fun and fill them with positive reinforcement in the form of treats and a lot of praise. Once your Bulldog learns a command, it will remember it for a very long time. Safety Bulldogs are not natural swimmers as their heads are very heavy and tend to drag them down into the water which can lead to drowning. If you have a pool or a pond in your yard, keep an eye on your dog to prevent it from falling in. Feeding The amount and type of food that you give your bulldog will depend on its size, metabolism, age, build and its activity levels. Consult a professional trainer or a vet to help you in coming up with the right diet for your dog. Leaving food out at all times encourages your Bulldog to eat massive amounts of food and due to their inactive nature; this can easily lead to obesity. To prevent this, limit eating times to twice a day. Hygiene Getting your dog accustomed to hygiene practices while it is still young prevents the occurrence of many diseases. You can use baby wipes to wipe the insides of wrinkles and ensure that the insides are completely dry to avoid the risk of bacterial and fungal infections. Introduce your Bulldog to nail clipping at an early age as this will make the experience much more pleasant for the two of you. Give your dog a weekly exam as you bathe it so that you can look out for warning signs of diseases. Crating English Bulldogs The size of the crate you choose will depend on the size of your dog. If it is still young, get a crate with a dividing panel to allow for expansion. Given their social nature, English Bulldogs get along with most people and children and you can trust them to play nice with kids. Instead of getting angry when tormented, they prefer to walk away. Seeing how amazing these dogs are, they definitely deserve a crate that is befitting of their lovable nature. Get a crate that allows them to have adequate space to sleep in as they really love to take naps.

More VaGolden Retrievers Hello, I hope you enjoyed my website, and have taken the time to review all my pages , from text,photos and videos. You can find answers to most of your questions on my site. Placing you and one of my puppies together is something I take very seriously. Knowing you are happy and that one of my puppies has made that happen, means a lot to me. I do hope each family takes the time to get to know me and the line of adult Golden's I have. This is my line. A strong line of Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers make perfect family pets. They always enjoy being part of the family's company and show love and devotion to all members of the family. They crave love and affection. Companionship is their top priority and they are totally devoted to their human family. Puppies For Sale If you're interested in my coming litter,, please call I have litters arriving thought out the year. Once they arrive, I will have videos of the puppies on this website. It's always best to plan taking a puppy home and contacting me in advance is always best. He has been the most amazing dog and are so blessed to have him in our life. He is going to turn 10 months old and looks so much like his Mom and Dad. Thank you Grayland for such an amazing dog! We named him Hook because we are a Disney family and he is the Captain of our new home. We will definitely recommend you to future Golden owners. Hello, it's been 3 weeks since our Penny came home. I just wanted to thank you for this precious pup. We love her very much and she's become an integral part of the family. She's doing great with house training and is even using door bells to let us know when she needs to go out. She can sit, lay down, and shake. Penny has an awesome personality and loves everyone even our cat! She just had her 10 week check up and our veterinarian said "she's perfect in every way. She's exactly what a golden should be. So thank you so very much. We are so thankful to have our little Piper. She is quite a gem that has added that extra spunk to our Golden family. We now have 4 and plan on adding to our brood with just one more from VA Golden Retrievers. We have had such a positive experience. You can definitely see that Mr. Nelson loves his Goldens. They are friendly, energetic and well bred. Thank you for sharing a part of your family with us. We purchased our golden back in April and we named him Theodore. We are so happy with him! Theo has the sweetest disposition and learns quickly. He does well on the leash, sits, stays sometimes! Our girls absolutely love him I just wanted to let you know what a blessing our puppy has been to us! Hello Mr. We meet before back in .Bailey is such a blessing to our family. First off he is the most loving and sweetest dog in the whole world! We could Not imagine life without him he has truly given our family so much happiness! I just wanted to thank you so much for our sweet boy! We brought Beamer home in December and he has been such a blessing to our little family. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Virginia Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Virginia? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Virginia? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved.

At what age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? As larger dogs, Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to reach their full weight. Most Golden Retrievers will be close to their adult height and weight around a year of age but may need one more year to fill out their chest fully. A six-month-old male Golden Retriever will weigh between 35 to 45 pounds, while their female counterpart will weigh around 30 to 35 pounds at the same age. As for their height, most Golden Retrievers will still need another three to six months to reach their adult height. At this age, they will likely be a few inches away from their adult height, which ranges from .Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on bonding with your pet, puppy-proofing your home, training, microchips, and more! How much bigger will my Golden Retriever get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much bigger your Golden Retriever will get. If they are less than a year old, they still need more time to reach their full adult size. Many Golden Retrievers can take up to two years to completely fill out, though their weight at one year old is usually close to their full adult weight. A puppy is rarely larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you a general idea of their maximum weight. If their paws still look large or oversized next to their body and legs, they are probably still filling out and have some growing left to do, as this is a classic sign of adolescence in canines. What is the size of a full-grown Golden Retriever? As adults, Golden Retrievers will appear overall symmetrical and have a powerful body hidden beneath beautiful, golden fur. Golden Retrievers are stunning, sunny dogs that easily steal our hearts. Unfortunately, as a purebred dog breed, they are more susceptible to genetic diseases, which can compromise their lifespan and quality of life. However, many genetic disorders can be treated or prevented with regular veterinary care. Remember that prevention is almost always easier and less expensive than treatment. Your veterinarian may recommend a large-breed growth food to your Golden Retriever puppy to support their growth rate which can help prevent or decrease the severity of hip dysplasia in adulthood. According to the Veterinary Centers of America , Golden Retrievers are also more prone to gaining excess weight. Golden Retrievers are also susceptible to various genetic health disorders, such as oral tumors and aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis is most commonly found in large, purebred dogs, including Golden Retrievers, and occurs when the aortic valves to the heart narrow. Aortic stenosis causes the body to struggle to pump blood through the valve, creating additional stress on the body. If untreated, aortic stenosis can lead to muscle failure and even fatality. However, veterinarians can treat many genetic diseases like aortic stenosis and oral tumors through surgery and medication. Even with proper prevention and wellness care, necessary veterinary visits can be expensive, with many treatments costing thousands of dollars. Out of over 20, pet parents surveyed , only .The last thing you should be focused on when the worst happens is how to finance a needed surgery or treatment for your beloved pet. This is where pet insurance comes in. Just like people, dogs are living longer lives and will need additional veterinary care to maintain a happy quality of life. Let pet insurance help you with these costs should the worst happen to your dog. Wellness plans are also available as an add-on to help with the ongoing costs of regular veterinary care , like x-rays and exams. Act now and give yourself peace of mind knowing that your Golden Retriever is covered should anything happen. Compare top Golden Retriever pet insurance plans side-by-side with Pawlicy Advisor today! Key Takeaways On average, male Golden Retrievers weigh pounds and females weigh pounds. At full height, Goldens stand between .Although puppies groww extremely fast, the Golden Retriever breed can take as long as 2 years to reach full maturity. Owners should keep an eye on their Golden Retriever's diet because they are very prone to obesity. Pet insurance helps cover the cost of care necessary to give your Goldie a happy, healthy life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! The first vaccination for your Golden takes place between 6 to 8 weeks. Since everything is new to your pup, he might be timid and get easily scared. Golden puppies just left their source of security and are away from their littermates and mother for the first time. Bring your pup out to relieve him after every meal. Divide it into four small meals throughout the day. This is also the recommended age to start training. Housebreaking is especially important to avoid bad habits from developing. If you want him to be friendly to all, socialization at this age is also essential. This will help him grow familiar with strange sights, smells, and sounds. For the diet, stick to feeding him four small meals a day with the same amount mentioned for 7-week Goldens. After the vaccines, keep your Golden pup away from other pets for at least two weeks. Golden Retriever at 3 months This allows them to have full immunity, especially against the fatal parvovirus. They are becoming more curious, and you might have a problem with biting. Stay calm and teach him gently but firmly that he is not allowed to chew on you or anything else, except his chew toy. You can also acclimate him to grooming. Get him used to being combed and his paws handled. Introduce him to the blowdryer and praise him when he stays calm. You can start to be more serious about training. Spread 2 cups of kibble over the day, and cut one meal out by the end of the week. He should also be picking up basic commands. If your pup is quick to learn, kick it up a notch by teaching him a few tricks. Golden Retriever at 5 months Offer some chew toys that you can cool in the fridge to alleviate him discomfort. You may also start exercising him for 20 minutes a day, as this is the stage where he should show excitement for the outdoors. Swimming, fetch, and walking are great to start things off. Some Goldens are potty-trained around the 4-month mark, although accidents might still occur. He will have the body of an adult, but the legs and tail of a puppy. Golden Retriever at 6 months Also, his nose and ears will grow faster, so you end up with a goofy-looking pup. You need to be careful with him for the next six months because this is when they are most vulnerable to developing hip dysplasia. Avoid long walks, going down the stairs, and stopping suddenly while running. The pressure from those activities might cause joints to deform. Your Golden may also start to display signs of sexual maturity in the next few months, if not neutered or spayed. Some of them never grow out of it and will stay young at heart into their old age. To be sure he is free from hip dysplasia, have him checked by the vet when he is two years old. When do Golden Retrievers stop growing? Golden Retrievers grow the fastest between 3 to 6 months of age. Around the six-month mark, their growth starts to taper off. This will prevent him from reaching his full potential. If left untreated, it can cause lasting damage to their bones, muscles, immune system, skin, and digestive system. Being ill for an extended period might also affect his development. Your puppy may be stunted due to malnutrition. Dangers of stunted or accelerated growth Some people prefer bigger Goldens, but some like them small, like Mini Golden Retrievers. This might lead to under or over-feeding, neither of which is ideal. Accelerated growth can cause hip or elbow dysplasia. It can also be responsible for bone disease and arthritis. Stunted Golden puppies, whether by illness or under-feeding, are generally weaker, and make them susceptible to falling sick. What is the best age to spay or neuter your pup? You can spay Golden Retriever puppies as early as 8 weeks old, but any time before they reach sexual maturity is preferred, which is around one year old. This will prevent undesirable behaviors such as marking, territorial behavior, or a fixation with toys. All of which are hard to correct when they manifest. For breeds that are predisposed to hip dysplasia, vets recommend spaying around the 6-month mark. Will neutering or spaying your Golden pup affect his or her growth? Yes, fixing a Golden before they reach sexual maturity generally causes your dog to grow bigger. This is because sex hormones suppress growth hormones. Without growth inhibition, your Golden will continue to grow. Aside from joint problems, there are also a few issues connected to spaying or neutering. They can become more prone to some forms of cancer. Some dogs also experience a change in behavior after the operation. The lack of estrogen can make female dogs more aggressive. Male dogs may also experience an increase in fearfulness. Sexual maturity usually occurs in Golden around 8 to 12 months. This gives you ample time to decide whether to sterilize or not. How heavy is a newborn Golden Retriever puppy? But, puppies as small as 10 oz at birth have been recorded. They usually leave their mom at 10 lbs. Also, bigger litters generally have smaller puppies, but they should all catch up by their 8th week. How to identify an overweight Golden Retriever? Use your eyes and hands to assess if your Golden is overweight or not. A survey in showed that .While it might look cute or funny, overweight dogs actually have shorter lifespans. Being excessively chubby shaves off two years and causes health issues. Do Golden Retriever types have different growth rates? Show dogs are often heavier than working dogs. Aside from other factors we mentioned, a nutritious diet and an active lifestyle will help keep your Golden healthy and happy. Remember, their final size will vary from one another, depending on variation and pedigree. When is a Golden Retriever Full Grown? Goldens are a large breed, and like other such breeds, Golden Retrievers grow until they reach their full height and weight. This process typically occurs between the ages of one to two years old, or 18 to 24 months; however, there is some variation in how fast each dog grows during this period due to both genetic factors and environmental ones, like diet or exercise level. Use our weight chart to help keep an eye on how your Golden puppy develops as she grows. Is Your Golden Retriever Healthy? Golden Retrievers are beautiful, friendly dogs that will steal your heart with their cute antics. That said, many disorders that adult Golden Retrievers have are treatable or preventable through regular vet care. Preventative care, along with a pet insurance policy, is an ideal combination to give your Golden a long, happy life. Some of the most common medical conditions that Golden Retrievers are susceptible to developing are: Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia Golden Retrievers are prone to develop hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which are common orthopedic issues seen in many other large dog breeds. The canine hip and elbow rotate smoothly within its socket joint, which holds them together with powerful ligaments. When these areas degrade due to wear and tear caused by poor alignment or injury, excessive stress and uneven bone wear are placed on the attached ligaments, leading to lameness, stiffness, arthritis, and pain. When your dog suffers from dysplasia, simple tasks like jumping into the car or climbing stairs can be difficult. A vet can assess the severity with imaging technology and prescribe relief for any present symptoms, allowing the dog to return to activities as usual. Skin allergies and conditions Golden Retrievers are at risk for various skin problems, including allergic reactions and parasites. They also require more care than other breeds to keep their coats clean due to the deep undercoat that insulates against cold weather. Keep an eye out for any allergies your pup might have towards certain items in their environment, as well as molds and dust, which could trigger reactions on contact-sensitive areas like ears or paws. This breed is also prone to various skin conditions, including granulomas a type of non-cancerous tumor , sebaceous cysts, and lipomas. Cancer The cancer rate among Golden Retrievers is sadly all too common. Golden Retrievers are also often diagnosed with other cancers, including lymphosarcoma, osteosarcoma, and mastocytoma. Heart disease and respiratory issues Golden Retrievers are at risk for various conditions that affect the heart, lungs, and circulation. This disease has severe effects, including death if not treated immediately. If you notice any signs like lethargy or weakness along with difficulty breathing, then see a veterinarian right away as your dog might be suffering from issues caused by SAS. Protect your Golden retriever puppy with pet insurance. You might not be able to control the genes passed down to your Golden Retriever puppy from generation to generation. What if your dog develops cancer or heart issues? The veterinary costs can add up pretty quickly without proper pet insurance coverage. A quality policy will cover a significant portion of all emergency procedures and medication costs. Get Quotes for Your Cat Charitable Giving With every pet insurance policy we generate, we do our bit to help less fortunate animals across Canada and the U. Popular Articles. At this stage, nipping bad behaviors in the bud is more important than imprinting positive ones. Instead, just redirect them to positive behavior and reward them accordingly. By this point, your puppy should have already been given their distemper and parvovirus vaccinations. By this point, they should be fully housetrained or close to it. Your dog will be likely to gnaw and bite on anything they can get their chompers on—including you. Stay calm and redirect their attention to appropriate objects like chew toys. Your Golden should be fully accustomed to their new kibble at this point, and you should feed them three to four times per day. A 3-month-old dog should also get a DHHP booster, which protects them from parvo, distemper, parainfluenza, and adenovirus. You can play with your pup as much as you like, but take care not to put too much stress on their joints. Avoid a bunch of running and jumping, especially on hard surfaces. Your dog can transition from four meals per day down to three at this point, but the meals should probably be larger. This can cause digestive issues until your dog gets accustomed to it, so be prepared to clean up a few messes. Training should continue, although your primary focus will likely be convincing your pup to chew on something besides your shoes. Your dog will need another DHPP booster at this point, as well as a rabies vaccination. Other optional vaccines include Bordetella, Lyme disease, coronavirus, and leptospirosis. This could cause a brief burst of intense biting and chewing, so power through it. Make sure your pup has plenty of chew toys available to them. Stairs in particular should be avoided. Your pup is likely to start asserting itself at this stage and may start to mature sexually if not spayed or neutered. There are no vaccinations required at this point. Everyone knows how much fun it is to raise teenagers, right? This can lead to undesirable behaviors like aggressiveness, increased tendency to roam, and destructiveness. As a result, you may think that your dog is too skinny, but resist the urge to increase their rations. While most breeds have a puppy coat that they eventually grow out of, Goldens do not. Instead, their puppy coat becomes their undercoat, so you may notice your dog becoming increasingly fuzzy. The teenage rebelliousness should be wearing off by this point, and your dog is ready to begin training in earnest. You should still be feeding them twice daily, and they should stay on puppy kibble for at least another 6 months. Goldens reach their full height between 9 and 12 months old. Females tend to get there faster, but males will be taller in the end. You may also need to cut back on the amount that you feed them. It depends on the individual dog, but females generally reach maturity first. Spaying or neutering your dog has its pros and cons. The pros are fairly obvious: less marking, reduced misbehavior, and zero chance of getting an unexpected litter of puppies. Spaying and neutering can also protect against certain cancers. You may want to wait until your dog is at least 12 months old before getting them fixed. This also leaves the window open longer in which they can suffer skeletal damage, though, so be careful about how active you allow them to be. However, stunted growth and growing too quickly can cause serious health problems, so you should check with your vet to make sure your dog is growing on schedule. Stunted growth is usually caused by malnourishment or a medical problem. You should have your pup tested for parasites like hookworm or ringworm, and consider switching them to a higher-quality, calorie-dense food. If left untreated, malnourishment can lead to weak bones, muscles, and immune system. As you might expect, growing too quickly is often caused by feeding your dog too much. American and British Goldens are similar. However, American Goldens tend to be less stocky and muscular, instead having a leaner appearance. They may weigh a bit less as well. They tend to be taller as well, often standing an inch or two higher than their counterparts. Conclusion Golden Retrievers make excellent pets, and we understand how hard it is to resist the temptation to bring a puppy home. If you do, though, you should understand what to expect from your new dog. Steady growth is what you want to see, without too many peaks or valleys. This sets your dog up for a long, healthy lifespan. Every dog develops at their own pace, so as long as you feed your pup an appropriate amount of high-quality puppy kibble and get them vaccinated regularly, you should be fine. See also:. Final thoughts Golden retriever puppies grow rapidly in their first months, and they continue to grow up to 2 years. The golden retrievers should stay at least eight weeks with their mother. If your puppy is smaller than 10 inches, you should consult with a vet. Sometimes, overgrowing is also normal for them. Puppies need extra care, and attention as their mental and physical growth occurs at the first stage of their life. Always keep an eye on their growth and behavior. Proper training is also essential for those. We will discuss training your GR puppy in the later section of this article. Here is a size chart of golden retriever puppies of 4 months. While male GR of the same age can weigh 25 lbs to 55 lbs, the average weight is 33 lbs. You also must know the ideal weight range for your puppy so that you can adjust his food and exercise. Golden retriever puppies can easily become overweight, making them prone to bone, joint and other diseases. However, by maintaining a feeding chart, you will be able to keep your puppies weight within range. If your golden retriever and the rib are easily noticeable, your puppy is probably underweight. What to feed a 4 month old golden retriever? Feeding quality puppy food is essential for your golden retriever. There are 3 types of dog food in the market. The starter food, puppy food and adult food. The starter food is fed for months of the puppy. Those foods are high in protein and fat. For a 4 months old golden retriever, puppy food is suitable. After months, you can start feeding your golden retriever adult food. How much should a 4 month old golden retriever eat? A 4 month old golden retriever should eat 2 cups of standard puppy food. Split the daily required food into three parts and feed him 3 times a day. If your puppy always looks hungry or refuses to eat, consult with a vet. Check out their natural behaviors. Barking: 4 month old golden retrievers will start to sound like adult ones. Biting: A 4 month old golden retriever puppy should not bite as much as in previous months. If he does, you should take steps to address the behavior quickly. Aggressiveness: A 4 months old golden retriever puppy should not be aggressive to the family members if loved and cared for. How much sleep does a 4 month old golden retriever need? But in earlier months, the puppies need hours of sleep for proper growth and brain development. How much exercise for a 4 month old golden retriever? A four-month-old golden retriever should exercise for minutes twice daily. Multiply their age in months by 5, and the result is their required exercise time. Keep in mind that walking is also considered an exercise, and 15 min of walking is enough for them. What does a 4 month old golden retriever look like? A female 4 months old puppy will look more mature than a 4 month old male puppy. The female golden retrievers will be inches and lbs. A 4 month old golden retriever will weigh 25 to 55 lbs, and the regular size should be inches. The fur and appearance will look like adults, but they still act like typical puppies. How to train a 4 month old golden retriever? Golden retrievers are pretty easy to train. Even a little boy can train the dog by knowing some basics of training a dog. Golden retrievers are obedient, curious and always eager to impress their owner. Those qualities and excellent intelligence make them easy to train. Reward the dog with food, praise or playtime if he does something right. The puppy will start doing that more. Here is a list of essential training you should start giving your 4 month old golden retriever. Potty train: Potty training a puppy is easy, but it can take some time and patience for some puppies. You should start potty training your puppy once you bring the puppy home. The easiest way to potty train a golden retriever is to take him outside frequently where you want him to take care of his business. Take him there every 2 hours, especially after eating, drinking and waking up. Once the puppy does the job at the right place, give him a special treat immediately after finishing his job. Appreciate him with good words and affection. After repeating the process a few times, the puppy should know what to do when nature calls him. Being alone: If you love your golden retriever, he will be ready to love you three times more. The only thing golden retrievers do not like is being alone. Never leave your puppy alone for more than hours, as he can be highly depressed if you do that. Ask your friends and family to take care of your puppy if you need to go out for a longer time. Socializing: Social skills are vital for a golden retriever, and You must give this training at puppyhood. How do you make your puppy social? Just take him around lots of people and dogs. Visit parks with him and let him play with other dogs. General commands: To have complete control over your dog, you should teach general commands like sit, come, wait, stop barking, clam down etc. There are many useful commands you can teach your 4 month old golden retriever puppy. Make him do something you want him to do, and if he does it right, give him a lot of rewording. Final thoughts The 4th month is a crucial period for golden retriever puppies as they grow up both physically and mentally very rapidly at this time. A 4 month old golden retriever male should be within inches and lbs, and a female puppy should be within inches and lbs range. By Tom Massey Mar 02, Adopting a golden retriever is one of the best decisions you can make. These loving dogs are constantly praised for their gentle and calm, yet playful nature, making them perfect dogs for all walks of life and types of families. So when you do finally bring your Golden Retriever puppy home, you want to do everything you can to give them a long and healthy life for years to come. This is a wide range, so keep in mind that the weight of your Retriever will vary depending on genetic factors and sex. For example, female Golden Retrievers will weigh closer to 55 pounds while Golden Retriever males are heavier and will weigh closer to 75 pounds. Females also typically reach their full size by their first birthday, while males may continue growing through their second year. You can usually tell the size males and females will be based on what their parents look like, which is why Snowy Pines encourages meeting the parents or browsing through their photos and biographies online. Then, calculate 1. What to Expect: This age is crucial for mother-puppy bonding since he will depend on his mother for food, cleaning, and socialization. Image Source Weeks months Golden Retriever Male Weight: Between 8 to 12 weeks, your male puppy will average between 10 to 22 pounds. Golden Retriever Female Weight: Although females will grow to be smaller than males, they are typically around the same weight at this age group. The puppies become very playful, curious, and discover their voices little by little. Introductory training like house training is essential. Socialization is also important, which is why Snowy Pines ensures that all puppies stay with their littermates until adoption. For female puppies, 6 months is a little over the halfway point to their full-size, and males are essentially smaller versions of their adult bodies. Remember, at this age, you can multiply by two to determine their adult weight! What to Expect: Socialization is still crucial at this age, and more intense training can also begin. The puppy should also be kept in happy and safe environments, as any exposure to something fearful at this age may impact him long-term. This is entirely normal: Think of your puppy as a teenager who is going through adolescence and waiting for the rest of his body to catch up. They may get territorial and challenge you and other pets for dominance. Most Golden Retrievers will be fully grown by 24 months old, although this varies. Golden Retriever Female Weight: In most cases, females are finished growing before 16 to 24 months. Whatever their nature is like at the to month mark is likely what it will be throughout their adult life. They are loyal, friendly, and calm, making them the perfect companion for small and large families alike. However, Goldens are susceptible to certain illnesses and diseases that are common in bigger breeds that are typically caused by overfeeding, stunted or accelerated growth, and genetic issues. One of the most common diseases that goldens experience is Osteochondritis dissecans OCD. OCD is a developmental disease that affects large-breed dogs because of the accelerated growth they experience. It is an inflammatory condition that causes abnormal cartilage development on the end of a bone in the joint. This can lead to joint problems like arthritis and hip dysplasia which commonly appears in the elbow, hip, and knee. Image Source The good news is that, although larger breeds like golden retrievers are prone to joint issues like this, you may be able to help prevent it through proper practice. OCD is a specific disease that is more common in dogs that receive too much energy and calcium in their diets. Other common factors are genetics, rapid growth, and hormonal factors. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, and all that extra weight can leave your puppy with skeletal abnormalities that put too much weight on joints. Another way to avoid accidentally stunted or accelerated growth is to ensure your golden retriever puppy is getting fed appropriately and receiving the right amount of calories. Image Source Months Between 2 and 4 months old, your puppy should eat 4 times per day with 2 ounces per meal. This will add up to 7 to 9 ounces per day, depending on how much he willingly eats. Keep him on puppy food through his first year before switching to young adult food. They must receive regular exercise every day. However, this depends on their age. As previously covered, the more your puppy grows, the more susceptible to common diseases like joint problems. Breeders with years of experience, like the team at Snowy Pines, work hard to keep pure bloodlines so that all of the parents and their litters are as healthy as they can be, which helps guarantee a lifetime full of happiness without any issue. Share on. Not all goldens will grow to the same size and at the same rate. The size of the parents is always a good indicator of whether your dog will be above or below average in size. However, while natural variation is nothing to worry about, stunted growth or accelerated growth is. If a golden retriever puppy is malnourished or suffering from an unidentified medical condition usually hookworm or ringworm , their natural growth can be compromised. This can lead to serious medical issues in later life, as it can leave them with weak bones, weak muscles, and a weak immune system, as well as a tendency to develop both skin and digestive issues. Growing too quickly, largely as a result of overfeeding, can also pose a major health risk. As well as leading to obesity, carrying too much weight at the development stage can leave your golden retriever with skeletal abnormalities, hip dysplasia, and osteochondrosis , a condition that affects the joints. With these tips, you will help fight off those genetic health disorders as well. Appropriate Diet Start off by speaking to your vet for guidance on foods to use for the different life stages. At the very least, you will need a nutritionally complete and balanced diet made for large breeds. Good food will help your pup gain the right amount of weight, look healthy, and have enough energy. Proper exercise will build their muscle and bone strength, prevent obesity, increase their agility, stop destructive behavior, and help them release pent-up energy. Vaccines will help to prevent infectious diseases such as hepatitis, parvovirus, rabies, and distemper, all of which could affect the growth and overall health of your puppy. This will be a plus for her overall health. It would also be great to have your vet do routine health checks on your puppy. This way, no issue will go unnoticed, and treatment can be administered early for better outcomes. A shiny coat and bright eyes are a plus. Alternatively, if you notice rapid weight gain or loss, unusual bumps and lumps on their skin, digestive issues, changes in behavior, and visual or hearing complications, take your dog to the vet right away. Compared to other breeds, Golden Retrievers, especially females, grow pretty quickly. Males could take up to 18 months to achieve the same milestone. However, both will still need an additional year to fill out the chest fully. Adult height, on the other hand, will be reached between 9 and 12 months. As always, females will get there a bit faster than males. You can get a rough idea of how big your golden retriever will grow by first studying the parents. Take note of the size that both of the parents and previous litters have had. Rarely will a puppy grow larger than its parents, so the measurements you gather will give you a better idea of how tall and heavy your golden retriever will get. Full-grown, healthy, male golden retrievers have a height of between 22 and 24 inches while the females are 20 to 22 inches tall. In terms of height and body structure, the Canadian golden retriever has no rival. Spaying and neutering specifically affect the development of bones and also ligament and tendon strength. In fact, some studies report higher incidences of cranial cruciate ligament tears and hip dysplasia among golden retrievers that went through this procedure. Therefore, consult your vet when deciding if and when to spay or neuter your dog. The weight of your golden retriever is a good indication of their healthy development. While male and female Goldens will have different weights and show goldens tend to be heavier than working goldens, overall, they should be hitting the weights listed in the growth and weight chart above. If your dog is not hitting these milestones, consult your vet about malnutrition, possibly caused by worms, and excessive golden retriever growth, which is often the result of overfeeding. If you feel like your pooch is missing any of them, again, it is time to consult your vet. In general, good nutrition and a loving home is a recipe for a happy and healthy golden retriever. If you want to know more about your golden retriever, you can do a DNA test, too. You can choose one of the tests below:.

Experience the Joys of Owning a Dog Experience the Joys of Owning a Dog Experience the Joys of Owning a Dog If you've been considering dog ownership, why not find out what it's really like with us before making that big commitment. That's why we entrust them to resolve your fear of dogs within our specially controlled environment. Or know someone who has? Many people who are bereaving find it very therapeutic coming to The GRE because they are reminded of the joys of having had their pet and receive the healing love and attention they've been missing. We're based in the quiet countryside of Exmoor National Park, surrounded by rolling hills with a 10 minute walk to the beach. Makes a perfect Wedding Gift and we do Gift Certificates. You can book out our grounds dogs included of course for up to 6 hours of dog-filled fun. Enquire below. Additional Expertise and Accessibility Learning, Social and Behavioural Difficulties Additional Expertise and Accessibility We have experience working with the blind, elderly patients and children and adults with Down syndrome. The GRE is fully wheelchair accessible and we have ample parking for minibuses and coaches. We'd love to see all of you at The GRE but we don't accept walk-ins because we have a limited capacity, all bookings must be made in advance via the 'book now' button on our website. If you want to book, please press the 'book now' button on the bottom of your screen. Otherwise, fill out this form and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Please note that we are not offering 3-hour sessions for Summer but please get in touch if you still have a 3-hour gift certificate to use. Donate to help local dogs looking for loving homes Dogs will always walk by our side, no matter what life brings. Help us to always be here for them. Donate Today Temporary visitor closure - Birmingham Following veterinary advice, unfortunately our Birmingham rescue centre will be closed for general visiting for seven days from Tuesday 13th September, following some positive cases of parvovirus in dogs that have been brought into us in the last few days. If you have booked an appointment to visit our centre this week, please look out for updates on social media for re-opening dates. If you are currently in the process of adopting a dog from us, our customer care team will be in touch to progress your application. Our kennels are currently full, therefore should you find a stray dog or wish to discuss relinquishing a pet, please contact your local dog warden. If you would like to speak with one of our team, please call T. The health of all the dogs in our care is our top priority and every dog is receiving regular vet checks and treatment if there is any cause for concern. Thank you for your patience and ongoing support and we look forward to seeing you again so Meet your new best friend Macey.

Connect with us! Welcome to Moss Creek Goldendoodles! We are one of the first to ever breed English Goldendoodles. We love what we do and have lots of experience to share. We are committed to the research, development and improvement of the English Goldendoodle dog breed. We specialize and strive to produce healthy Companion, Therapy and Service Dogs with wonderful temperaments. We breed well-adjusted, properly-socialized, sweet, loving Goldendoodle puppies with low to non-shedding, allergy-friendly coats. We breed Goldendoodles in small, medium and large standard sizes. We are an original member of the Goldendoodles. Here at Moss Creek Goldendoodles, we have very carefully selected our Puppy Parents from the highest quality champion lines with years of good health history behind them. Our puppy parents are the best of the best. Moss Creek Goldendoodle puppy parents are health tested and certified clear before they are bred. We offer a full Two-Year Health Guarantee on all of our puppies and a lifetime of support and re-home if needed. Our puppies are checked by our Veterinarian several times, vaccinated, microchipped and come with a signed Health Certificate and shot record. All of our puppies are loved and socialized from the minute they are born. We expose the puppies to new sounds, smells, surfaces to walk on, people of all sizes, dogs, etc. .We start introducing our puppies to the crate at 3 weeks. By 8 weeks they are all sleeping in individual crates at night. This early head start to Crate Training makes the transition to your home less stressful for the puppy and you! Because your new Goldendoodle Puppy will be a family member for life, our goal is to match you with the right puppy. Our puppies are temperament- tested using the Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test. This, along with your puppy application, phone interview, emails, pictures and our first hand experience since , helps us match the perfect puppy to your family and lifestyle. Boot Camp for Puppies! For families interested in obtaining a fully-trained Goldendoodle puppy, we offer a one-of-a-kind puppy training program called McDoodles Boot Camp for Puppies. This program was the first of its kind and is specifically tailored for 8-week old Moss Creek Goldendoodle puppies. Depending on the length of stay, Moss Creek Goldendoodles go home from Boot Camp potty trained ringing their bells to be let out to potty. They know all their basic commands and follow them proudly. They are socialized and exposed to kids, cats, adults, car rides, dogs, birds and anything else the trainer feels would help. They are loving, taught manners, and not to nip and jump - to walk on leash by kids and adults. Weather permitting - the puppies are taught to swim and how to find their way out of a pool. Read references and testimonials from families who sent their puppy to McDoodles Boot Camp for Puppies. Sweet Mr. Murphy 1 month shy of his 9th birthday! Thanks again Moss Creek! Mama has leaky eyes cause she says that this past year that me and Abby are the best medicine EVER for her.That's ME teehee! Happy Birthday to Madison, Brady, Darcy and their other eight brothers and sisters. You're simply amazing. Sending doodle hugs to all. Wanted to recreate the pic one year later but it is a rainy day here so the sofa is the best I could do. Winnie was feeling a bit slighted and decided to photobomb the pic. Thanks so much Lauren Nichols and Kelli R. Bailey for our beautiful, lovable girl! He's down here in South Florida, and he has already brought such joy to our family. Some of you probably saw me post that we lost our eight-year-old McPoodle unexpectedly last week - in just a matter of hours when a tumor in his spleen ruptured. One of the worst weeks of our life, and to bring this little guy home today to the girls was absolutely the best medicine ever. Cheerio will be forever missed, but Junior is definitely cheering everyone up and already a member of the family, with everyone fawning over him. I hope to see updates on his siblings soon! Thank you, Lauren and everyone at McDoodles, for another amazing puppy. Luna made it through her first night with me. I think I put her to bed a wrong times during her day. She wanted to stay up late. We did have lots of fun. She wants to sleep with us. My mom had her hand in the crate and Luna slept with her head on it. I put my hand on her back. She loves her bedroom just sleeping on my lap for her little naps. My cats are going up to her. Thank you Miss Kelli for making a beautiful and sweet baby for me to love. Charanun,Miss Heather, Miss Crystal and the rest of you for your help too. I love you all. I will never let her out of my arms. Cean V. We are so thankful we found you! You did an amazing job with our Riley and we will continue what we started. I can't thank you enough for picking him for us. He's perfect. We are all family and would do anything for our doodles. You have picked by far, in my book, the best breeder in the world who loves her animals, and is very careful in placing them in there forever home. She will make sure to find the right fit for you, and your family. I have two from her Shiloh who is a year old and Logan who is 7 months old. I love them to death they are such wonderful dogs to have. They are from the same parents just different litters. The dogs are raised in a beautiful home on 10 acres that is spotless clean every time I've been there. You cannot go wrong with a puppy from Moss Creek. I kept searching for breeders and I found Moss Creek to be the one I liked the best. When I put my name on a list for a doodle I didn't know much about waiting lists or F1 or F1b's. I just wanted a Goldendoodle! When I came from my 2 month vacation in Spain I went to Kelli's to pick up my baby. OMG he was so beautiful!! She picked the perfect dog for me! We are all crazy about him. He is so much fun and so intelligent. He's well behaved and handsome. He is everything I expected and a lot more. A few months later after we heard our friends on the forum saying double doodle was the best, we decided to give Nadal a brother. This time we wanted a red baby from Aden since my husband and I saw his picture and it was love at first sight. Iker came to us 3 months ago. He's 5 mo. He's so well behaved too! I take them everywhere I can. Nadal went to tennis class with me yesterday. He waited tied up, sitting with his bowl of water under a tree next to the court, most of the time being petted and spoiled by my friends. Then to the ice cream shop for his weekly ice-cream and to pet smart to get some treats and a new toy just like a kid. They are never sick. Their skin is very healthy so is their weight. No allergies to anything. After a year, I still check the forum twice at least, daily. And then there is Kelli, she is such an amazing person and she's always there for you. The only problem you'll find with Moss Creek is that is so hard to choose the parents, they are all great! Our puppy Bettis, is everything and more than we expected. He has been a wonderful addition to our family. We can see the comparisons to both breeds. He does some things that remind us so much of our dearly departed Poodle, Wynston. It is amazing. When he gets rowdy, I joke with my wife and tell her that is the Retriever in him, my Poodle would never act that way. Anyway, it has been great. Considering another in a couple of months. Not a peep from the second we got on the plane until we were in the car driving home. He is quite a joy to the entire family. He's eating, sleeping well, doing great with potty training, and becoming very adventuresome in the back yard. The vet and her assistant loved him how could they not! We do hope your nephew isn't missing him too much - we now understand how Levi captured hearts, including ours! He is just too sweet for words. Here are a few pictures of the handsome guy. Haven't attempted to post to the forum yet but will get to it soon. I'm already planning for another one in a few years!! We are going away on vacation for a week and I have been in tears not wanting to leave him: Thank you so much!!! You chose the perfect dog for our family!!! He settled in to our family very quickly and is a real joy to us all. He just finished puppy school and I have attached his graduation photo as well as a few others and a short video of Tyler feeding him. As you can see Blue is the spitting image of Ariel. Thanks to you for a great family pet. She is from Sunny and Simon. Thanks so much Kelli R. Bailey -we could not have chosen a more wonderful dog! She is the sweetest spitfire in the world and has brought nothing but pure happiness to our family!! Magnus has been following me around the house every where since day 1. He has brought me a huge amount of happiness and laughter. We go for walks and he does great on his leash. Training him has been a very simple process and I really think that is due to his incredible intelligence. After only a week of working with him he was able to: sit, lay down and shake. Now he is able to not only shake, but "other", raise his other paw, along with "speak. He received his finally puppy shots so I'm really excited to start taking him to the dog parks around here. I've introduced him to a couple friends' dogs and he did great! He is really playful and loved the other dogs. Everyone that meets him absolutely loves him. The vet I take him to can't get enough of him. I can't thank you enough. I've attached some recent pics. He's about lbs now! I'll try to send more once he starts to get to his adult size. Thanks again! Cart The McDifference At Moss Creek Goldendoodles we understand the excitement and stress of bringing a new puppy into your home and family. We try to relieve some of that burden by providing additional services you won't find elsewhere. The following are examples of the value associated with purchasing a Moss Creek Goldendoodle puppy. Watch our video of a family taking home their new puppy and see the McDifference in action! Our first Goldendoodle who is now 9 was from the very first litter of English F1 Goldendoodles ever bred. Since , Goldendoodles have been our passion. At least once a week someone tells me they can pick a Moss Creek Goldendoodle out in a sea of Goldendoodles or they stop traffic to ask a family where they got their dog. Our Goldendoodles have a very distinct look to them and they have amazing temperaments. This comes from years of hands on experience and having a close relationship with a Veterinarian, Trainer and Animal Behaviorist. Healthy Parents Here at Moss Creek Goldendoodles, we have very carefully selected our puppy Parents from the highest quality lines with years of good health history behind them. Many of our Goldendoodles are from English Golden Retrievers. We love the English Golden Retriever because of the extremely laid-back temperament, blocky heads and short stocky bodies they bring to our Goldendoodles. You can tell how fabulous they are by our English Goldendoodle puppies. Our parent dogs are also tested for von Willebrand's disease, elbows, heart and eye problems. We offer a full two-year health guarantee on all of our puppies and a lifetime of support and re-home if needed. We practice the Early Neurological Stimulation daily on all our puppies. The U. Military in their canine program developed a method that still serves as a guide to what works. In an effort to improve the performance of dogs used for military purposes, a program called "Bio Sensor" was developed. Later, it became known to the public as the "Super Dog" Program. Based on years of research, the military learned that early neurological stimulation exercises could have important and lasting effects. Their studies confirmed that there are specific time periods early in life when neurological stimulation has optimum results. We have put together a unique program for our Moss Creek puppies that is like no other. Our focus is to to produce healthy therapy, service and companion dog temperaments that are well adjusted, properly socialized, sweet, loving Goldendoodle puppies with low-non shedding - allergy-friendly coats. Guardian Homes Not all the dogs in our breeding program live here at Moss Creek. We retain full ownership. The Dogs live with the Guardian Families as their pets. After the dog passes all the genetic testing - the dogs come to Moss Creek to be bred and then again 2 weeks before the puppies are due. The Mom's stay here at Moss Creek through the delivery and until the puppies go home. We feel this is a win win situation for us, the dogs, the Guardian Families and our puppies. The dogs are in a home environment and not a kennel. They are also in their forever home. We breed them 4 times over the next 4 years and then they are spayed. Personalized Customer Service We understand that bringing a new puppy into your family is a huge decision. We look forward to working with you to find just the right doodle. Any questions you may have will be answered via email or phone call promptly. Read what our puppy owners have to say about their Moss Creek puppy on our testimonials page. When I started it I didn't know if anyone would want to participate. Little did I know it would turn into what it is today. It has grown into a wonderful community of Goldendoodle lovers. It is here you can ask for training tips, organize doodle romps in your area, and share pictures and stories with other Goldendoodle lovers. Many of our puppies get to romp with their littermates on a regular basis. The forum has also been an amazing resource of information on our puppies after they go home. Having the feedback - since - from our puppy owners has helped our breeding strategies in so many ways. When you purchase a Moss Creek puppy, it's not over after you pick up your puppy. We hope you stay in touch and become a part of the McDoodles community. You're guaranteed to make some wonderful friends and have a lot of fun along the way. Weekly pictures We take hundreds of pictures of each litter. We take pictures of our puppies at birth and every week until they go home. We put collars on our puppies at birth - they all wear different color collars so you can watch them grow from week to week. Our puppies are temperament tested at 6 weeks old using the Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test. This along with your puppy application, phone interview, emails and pictures, helps us match the perfect puppy with your family and lifestyle. Just like in humans, puppies have different personalities. It is crucial to have this testing and observation of the puppies from the minute they are born helping you pick your next family member. One thing you will hear over and over again from our puppy owners is we picked the perfect puppy for their family. Crate Training Teaching a puppy to sleep in the crate and not soil it, is an intensive and exhaustive task. We do more than just introduce your puppy to a crate. We actually train your puppy to sleep in its own crate through the night. The early days of this process are the most difficult. We have implemented a system that slowly teaches your puppy to enjoy being in the crate without soiling it. This makes for many sleepless nights on our part. We feel this early head start to crate training makes the transition to your home less stressful for the puppy and you! Most of our puppies go home able to sleep comfortably in their crates at night, for a period of six hours without accidents. The AKC Microchip service works 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year to facilitate the recovery of lost pets. New puppy owners can enroll their pet's AKC microchip identification number with the Recovery Service online or by mailing back the enrollment form included in your puppy kit - Your pet's ticket home! The puppy goes home with the pre-paid Microchip Application for the owners to register. Vaccinations Our puppies are vaccinated at 6 and 8 weeks old by our Veterinarian. At 8 weeks they also receive their first Kennel Cough Vaccine. The puppies are wormed - as a preventative at 3, 6 and 8 weeks. Our puppies are checked by our Veterinarian several times and go home with a signed Health Certificate and shot record stating they are in excellent health and free of parasites. Puppy kit All Moss Creek Puppies go home with a nice collar, leash, Purina Pro Plan Puppy Shredded Blend Chicken and Rice food, NuVet vitamins, toys, blanket that smells like Mom, signed copy of our 2-year Health Guarantee and Contract, Health Certificate signed by our Vet, shot record, detailed instructions to continue what we've started with crate training and feeding schedules. Most importantly, lifetime support and re-home if needed. We are always available to assist you long after your puppy leaves our home. After the Puppy Goes Home We offer many avenues for you to utilize in the training of your new puppy. Our forum is a great place to meet other Moss Creek Goldendoodle owners and ask questions as they arise. Our puppy trainers will potty-train your puppy, socialize it and teach basic commands - sit, down, wait, come, no bite, leave it, and off. McDoodles Boot Camp will get your puppy accustomed to a daily crating routine that matches your schedule and teach basic manners such as waiting patiently for meals, sitting for attention and learning not to jump or bark rudely. If you would like to reserve space for your puppy in our program, please indicate this on the puppy application form or during your phone interview. Learn more about our Boot Camp Training Program! Moss Creek Goldendoodles. Cart Immediately Available Puppies Check this page often to see any available puppies - they go fast! Check the Puppy Adoption page to learn about our adoption process, then fill out our Puppy Application and get on the list! Watch our Puppy Video to see some of our puppies in action with their Moms. Every puppy receives an individual puppy video to assist you with the selection process. Amy is the kind of pup who greets each day with a sunny disposition and a smile that can brighten the cloudiest of days. She's eager to learn new tricks and is always up for a game of "fetch the fun" or "chase your dreams. We can't wait to meet her forever family! Ezra Ezra This F1B English Standard Goldendoodle baby boy isn't just about cruising; he's all about keeping the strawberry Frappuccino safe from spillage and making sure those toddler giggles reach a record high. He's got patience that would make a saint jealous and a knack for adventure that rivals Indiana Jones. So, if you're on the lookout for a ride-or-die and sippin'-and-snackin' companion, this copilot is ready to hit the open road with you. Let's make memories, share smiles, and enjoy the journey — one hilarious pit stop at a time! She's not just looking for a forever home; she's looking to sprinkle love and joy into someone's life. This little snugglebug is as sweet as a scoop of your favorite ice cream on a sunny day. She's an eager learner, a loyal companion, and a natural-born hug therapist. Hope's got a tail that wags like there's no tomorrow, spreading happiness wherever she goes. He is well on his way to being house trained and he knows his basic commands. He's crate trained, walking on a loose leash, and ready to take on the world with his new people. He's the sweetest most beautiful boy to Boot! I can't wait to meet his new family. Moss Creek Goldendoodles. Moss Creek Doodles are known for their distinct look and amazing temperaments, both of which come from years of hands on experience and having a close relationship with a A Trainer, a Veterinarian, and an Animal Behaviorist. Many reviewers have noted that they can spot a Moss Creek Goldendoodle in a sea of Goldendoodles due to their distinct look. Additionally, people often stop Moss Creek Goldendoodle owners to ask where they got their pup from. Behind The Scenes: Parents At Moss Creek, the parents are carefully selected and tested for health, temperament, and conformation. All parents are OFA certified for hips and elbows. They also have genetic testing done to ensure that the pup will not be affected by genetic diseases common in the breed. They import their parent dogs from the top kennels in various countries, like Romania, the Netherlands and Canada. Early Neurological Stimulation Moss Creek also practices Early Neurological Stimulation ENS , which is a series of exercises designed to stimulate the neurological development in puppies. This helps the puppy become more resilient and have the ability to better handle stress throughout its life. This helps them to produce puppies with a strong temperament, making them well rounded and able to be therapy, companion, and service dogs. Guardian Homes Many of goldendoodles from Moss Creek are raised in guardian homes. This means that the dog is placed in a home with an experienced family and they help to raise him or her until it is time for them to join their new families. They understand that getting a new dog is an emotional experience and they seek to provide guidance and support throughout the process. Any questions you have will be answered promptly and they will always provide the best advice to ensure that you get the right pup for your home. The puppies come in three sizes: Mini, Medium, and Standard. The generations they offer include: F1 English Goldendoodles.

Are you starting to wonder if it's time to switch the teenage pooch to an adult food? While typically a pup should switch to adult dog food between 12 and 18 months of age, there are some things to consider. Growth and Size Puppies eat puppy food. Almost everyone knows that. The real question, though, is "why. Large-breed puppies in particular, such as your Labrador, have different nutritional needs than smaller breeds. Large-breed puppies require specific balances of minerals to ensure that their joints develop properly and in the right time frame. As such, the decision to switch your Labrador to an adult food is not one to be taken lightly. Speak with your vet concerning your Labrador's growth and keep your big, goofy, teenage Lab on a large-breed puppy food until the vet says his growth plates are beginning to close. These foods often contain bone- and joint-fortifying supplements like MSM or glucosamine. Since Labradors are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, the extra joint support in large-breed foods can help keep your growing dog on the right track, developmentwise. Labradors are prone to excess weight gain; many large-breed dog foods have fewer calories, which allows your seemingly bottomless stomach of a dog can be satisfied at the end of a meal instead of endlessly seeking more to eat. What Brand? Labradors, with their double coats, are heavy shedders. Keeping a close eye on the brand of food you feed, and on the food's ingredients list, can help keep your Labrador's coat healthy, shiny and shedding less. Look for a food, preferably grain-free, with meat listed as the first ingredient. Make sure it's not a meat byproduct or a meal. For example, the first few ingredients in a top-of-the-line food may read, "Turkey, chicken, eggs, quinoa. Start to wean your Lab off the puppy food and onto the adult food bit by bit, no more than half a cup at a time. On the first day of the switch, you might feed a cup and a half of puppy food and a half-cup of adult food. On day seven, you might feed 1-and-a-half cups of adult food and half a cup of puppy food. If your puppy starts to have digestive difficulties, such as loose stool, take the switch a little slower. More Articles. The ideal time to switch from puppy food to dog food is at the adolescence stage. In Labrador puppies, that stage is often around 12 months old. Sometimes your Lab puppy may need to switch to adult dog food a little earlier. Puppies and dogs eat different foods because puppies need more nutrition in their meals, which puppy food provides. Most living organisms' newborns often grow fast until they reach a certain age. To maintain that growth, those newborns require a more nutrition-dense diet. That diet should be rich in carbohydrates to meet the growing needs of rapidly growing babies. Your labrador puppy is no exception to that rule. On the other hand, once your Lab puppy becomes an adolescent, you need food that has less carbohydrate density to prevent giving your dog a heavy meal. The same goes for the other way around. Additionally, your puppy may experience some stomach upset and may not gain as much weight as he needs to. But you run the risk of overfeeding your dog. Your dog will be heavier, less active, and less healthy. His online resource contains Hundreds of Excellent Dog Training Videos that will take you step-by-step through the process of developing a healthy, happy well-behaved dog. This is precisely what happens to your puppy. So, the food bowl he used to devour a couple of months ago is now just an excessive amount of food. When someone eats a large meal, the blood flow to the small intestine increases. That reduces the amount of blood that goes to your brain, which makes you feel sleepy. As your puppy grows, his need for that large amount of carbohydrates reduces. So the previously regular meal is now a large meal that will make your dog feel sleepy and lazy most of the time. Additionally, this may lead to accidents happening a lot more. It should be no different for your dog. But you need to help him. The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health is the answer. This handy guide will help you recognize the symptoms of the health problems above. Get the knowledge to stay ahead of these terrible issues that can rob your lovely dog from vigor and life. When your dog is an adult and you decide to switch food brands, you should do so gradually. The same rule applies when your dog is still a puppy. Additionally, since every brand makes the food differently, you should do your best to switch to adult food of the same brand as puppy food. Your Lab puppy may not like the new food and may not eat it the first few times. Just keep introducing adult food mixed with puppy food for three days. By day three, your puppy should finish most of his meal. Step 2: Days 4—5 Step 2 is a little easier than step 1. This is when some stomach upsets may happen. Step 4: Days 8—10 In those last couple of days, your puppy should quickly eat an all-adult meal without problems. Keep in mind that those numbers are mainly for guidance. For instance, your Lap puppy may resist eating the adult dog food or have more stomach upset than he should. When that happens, contact your vet. He may recommend a more extended transitional period or a new food brand. Paul S. Paul has been creating content for the dog niche for many years. The information he shares comes his first hand experience growing up in dog lovers household and then owning multiple dog breeds of his own as an adult. Paul enjoys doing the hard research to collect, analyze and present our dogtemperament. Once he has reached maturity, you can switch to adult dog food. Not all breeds reach maturity at the same age, however, so this can make it harder to know when to switch. How Long to Feed Puppy Food Puppies need a complete and balanced puppy food until they reach maturity. For dogs, adulthood depends more on breed size than their age. Because large and giant breeds take longer to mature, they need to eat puppy food longer than small- or medium-sized breeds. Medium Dog Breeds: Medium-sized dogs weigh between 21 and 50 pounds at maturity. They tend to reach maturity around 12 months of age. They need to eat puppy food longer than small- and medium-sized breeds. They can tell you when to switch to an adult dog food and help make it a successful transition. Leftovers in a bowl could signal that your puppy is getting full and needs less calories throughout the day. Continuing to feed puppy food past the point of maturity could cause him to become overweight, which can lead to other health problems. Choose a complete and balanced adult dog food formula once your puppy reaches maturity to help him maintain his ideal body condition. When to Switch Puppy to Adult Food Once you know when your puppy will reach maturity, you can decide when to switch to adult food. If your puppy will be full grown at 12 months, you can start transitioning him to an adult formula around his first birthday. How to Transition Puppy to an Adult Dog Food When you stop feeding puppy food, you must change more than just the food he eats. The number of meals and portion sizes will shift, too. Most puppies eat three meals a day , but adult dogs can eat just two meals per day. A gradual transition helps prevent stomach upset. Days 3 to 4: Serve half puppy food and half adult dog food. Days 8 to Serve only adult dog food. If your dog resists eating the adult food or experiences an upset stomach, extend the transition time as needed. Consult with your veterinarian for more help if needed. For more information and tips on puppy and dog nutrition from our experts , visit our Pet Expertise page. Related articles. Just a few months ago, your little ball of fluff was tumbling around, getting into mischief. This article will help you determine when to switch your puppy to adult dog food, how puppy and adult dog foods differ , how to select the best adult dog food, and how to transition foods smoothly to ensure that your pup is set up for a life of good health. According to AAFCO, puppy foods should be higher in protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorous than adult dog foods. These macronutrients and minerals help support lean muscle and bone growth. They also provide enough caloric density to enable the puppy to grow and perform basic bodily functions such as breathing, digestion, and movement. Many puppy food manufacturers also include higher amounts of compounds like omega-3 fatty acids to support proper brain and eye development as your puppy ages. Large-breed puppies need specially formulated puppy foods that contain less fat , calcium, and phosphorous to moderate their rate of growth. This helps prevent skeletal diseases such as elbow and hip dysplasia that can result from growing too quickly. You need to ensure that your puppy has the extra protein, fat, and minerals they need to support their growth and development and prevent various bone, joint, brain, and eye disorders. But aside from breed size, you also need to consider whether they are spayed or neutered or if they are a highly active dog that needs more calories. Breed Size Because of their faster growth rate, smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas , Yorkshire Terriers , and Pugs reach adult size sooner than larger breeds such as Golden Retrievers , German Shepherds, and Dalmatians. The guidelines below will help you to determine when to start feeding adult dog food: Small breeds under 25 pounds when fully grown reach adult size at months of age. These breeds will be ready for adult dog food at months of age. Medium-sized breeds such as English Springer Spaniels , Australian Shepherds , and Border Collies are pounds when fully grown, and they reach adult size at months of age. With growth rates between those of small breeds and large breeds, medium-sized dogs will be ready for adult dog food around months of age. Large breeds are over 50 pounds when fully grown. There are many large breed dogs, from the Boxer to the Great Dane , so the point at which these breeds reach mature size and weight can vary between 15 and 24 months of age. With the wide range of breeds under this category and a generally slower rate of growth, these dogs will need to stay on puppy food until they are months old to ensure they have enough protein and other nutrients during this stage. They also need to get those nutrients in the proper ratio to support the growth and proper development of their larger skeletons. Activity Level Athletic dogs may benefit from staying on puppy formulas longer, as the extra protein supports lean muscle growth and function, and the extra fat and higher caloric density can allow energy for high-intensity activities. Spaying or Neutering Breed size is not the only factor when determining when to transition your puppy to adult dog food. Because puppy foods contain a higher calorie density, feeding the correct amount during the remaining months of puppyhood is very important to prevent obesity as the puppy matures into an adult. Spaying or neutering does not usually slow the growth rate of your puppy, but it may affect the growth plates in the bones of large breed puppies, setting them up for joint problems later in life. In addition, unspayed female dogs who will be bred early in life may need to stay on puppy food longer to support gestation and lactation following whelping. Switching Too Early or Too Late Because the timing of switching your puppy to adult dog food is so important, there can be negative consequences from both switching too late and switching too early. Dogs that are taken off puppy food too late may be more predisposed to obesity and associated health problems later in life, given the fact that puppy formulas have more fat and calories per cup than adult dog formulas. The extra protein and calories in puppy foods can also increase the rate of growth in certain dog breeds if they are not fed a breed-specific puppy food formula. If these breeds are left on puppy formulas too long, they can be more predisposed to developing joint problems in the future. Similarly, if your puppy is taken off a puppy formula too early, they may suffer from nutritional deficiencies and growth abnormalities, failing to reach adult size around the expected time and increasing their risk of future bone, joint, brain, and eye issues. How to Pick the Right Adult Dog Food When it is time for your puppy to transition to adult dog food, how should you go about selecting the best adult formula for them as they become young adults? The young adult stage is typically considered years of age, as middle age starts by year in many dog breeds. While most dogs are generally quite healthy during this stage in their lives, feeding them appropriately during their young adult years can help lower the risk of obesity, arthritis , and dental disease as they age. Choosing a Brand The many adult dog food companies are not all equal in terms of quality. Dry Food vs. Wet Food The next step is to decide whether you would like to feed your dog dry food, wet food, or a mixture of the two. Both types of food have positive and negative aspects, and the choice to use one, the other, or both depends on the specific needs of your dog. For example, wet food: Has a higher moisture content than dry food and may be better for dogs that do not drink much water. Has a lower calorie density per volume than dry dog food, allowing dogs to feel fuller on fewer calories, which helps control their weight throughout their lives. Is often more palatable and appetizing than dry food, so it may be a great option for picky eaters or for stimulating the appetite of dogs that are less interested in food. Can be beneficial for dogs with oral abnormalities or dental disease, as it is easier for them to chew. By contrast, dry food: Can be a more economical option than wet food. Is a great option for easier portion control and for dogs that tend to graze throughout the day rather than consume a full meal in one sitting, as dry food will not spoil as rapidly if left out for long periods of time. Is beneficial for dental health, as the crunchy pieces act as an abrasive against the teeth during chewing and help prevent tartar buildup and thus tooth and gum disease. Can be easily used as a tool in puzzle toys for enrichment and mental stimulation. Is be used in slow feeders for reducing the rate at which dogs are able to consume their meals. When your pup eats more slowly, the risk is lower of them swallowing too much air and developing bloat, a potentially dangerous condition. Nutritional Requirements The final step in selecting the best adult dog food diet is to examine the Guaranteed Analysis panel on the bag or can of food and ensure that the formula meets a few major nutritional requirements. Other formulas have glucosamine for joint health or probiotics for gut health. Some dogs are sensitive to chicken and do better on beef- or salmon-based formulas. If you are unsure of the additional needs for your dog outside of the key ingredients and nutrients listed above, consult with your veterinarian. This will help ensure gut regularity with less physical activity. Remember that dog treats and other sources of calories in the diet need to be included when determining the appropriate amount of food for your young adult dog. How to Switch Your Puppy to Adult Dog Food Once you have selected the best adult dog food for your puppy, you are ready to transition them slowly onto their new diet. Because rapid diet changes can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs, such as vomiting and diarrhea , it is recommended to introduce the new food slowly over a period of five days or so. Continue to feed your puppy as many times per day as they are used to throughout this process. If your puppy develops vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite, stop feeding the adult dog food and see your veterinarian. How Often to Feed Your Dog For large-breed puppies, it may be best for them to continue to eat three times per day. For medium-breed puppies, they should continue to be fed twice daily when they have been transitioned to adult dog food. For small-breed puppies, you may consider transitioning them to eating twice daily instead of three times per day after they are fully on adult dog food. This may involve providing more attention and playtime for your dog as they become accustomed to fewer feedings per day. Consider extra walks, extra playtime, or brushing to distract them from feelings of hunger. Some dogs may benefit from high-fiber adult dog food to increase feelings of fullness between meals. Your dog may also enjoy cleaned, raw fruits and vegetables such as sliced carrots, cucumbers, or apples without the core or seeds. If you have any questions about transitioning your puppy to adult dog food, contact your veterinarian. In addition, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist can be a great resource for any issues that come up, and they can help develop the best diet and feeding schedule for your new family member. Featured image: iStock. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. When do you switch from puppy food to adult food? Are you a first-time, inexperienced puppy owner? Are you confused about what to feed your Labrador puppy? Do you wish to provide your beloved puppy with the best diet but are confused as to what that is? We have compiled this article for you to help you figure out the best options for your puppy. What to feed your puppy? What are the different types of food available? There is no one food type that everyone agrees to be the best and most effective for your Labrador puppies. Even experts disagree on what type of food is the absolute best for your beloved puppy. There are 4 main types of food for dogs. Each one of them has its fair share of pros and cons. Kibble or dry food Many people regard kibble as the best food for puppies. Dry food is by far the most popular feeding method due to its convenience and price. But is it any good? If you go for high-quality kibble food brands, you can be sure that the food is providing your dog with all the necessary nutrients it requires. However, if you choose to go for cheaper brands of kibble, you will not only be unsure of the quality of the food, but they will also lack the necessary nutrients that your dog requires. It is convenient, cost-effective in the long run, and comes in a wide range of flavors. However, dogs can become bored of kibble, and they will never be as excited to eat dry food as to eat actual meat. Despite criticism, this type of dog food has some benefits. This makes cleaning after your dog much easier for you. It also reduces the risk of bloat, which can be a potentially fatal condition. Dogs fed on kibble are more at risk of bloat. It makes them clean, glowing, and shiny. It reduces the risk of obesity, and your dog enjoys a slim but healthy figure. Dogs enjoy eating meat more than they enjoy eating dry food. However, there are some cons to a completely raw diet. When dogs bite down on a bone, they swallow small fragments that could form a blockage in the intestine. This blockage, in the best-case scenario, causes constipation, and in the worst-case scenario requires immediate veterinary surgery. Wet food cans and pouches A puppy might prefer wet food over kibble as it looks and tastes way more appetizing. However, as in the case of dry food, if you choose a cheap brand, it will not have the essential nutrients your puppy needs. So choose high-quality brands that will ensure the nutrition that your puppy needs. An advantage of wet food, compared to dry food, is that it contains a higher percentage of liquid, which helps hydrate the dog and make it feel fuller. Home-cooked puppy food If you are reluctant to buy mass-produced puppy food from the market, you can always prepare a homemade meal for your dog. You have to make sure that the meal consists of all the necessary nutrients required by your dog. How much should you feed your puppy? Like human babies or any baby animals, puppies also need more meals than adult dogs. A puppy will need about 3 or 4 meals a day. If you are feeding your puppy 3 meals a day, and your pup has loose stools, then take the amount of food for 3 meals, and divide it into 4 meals in a day. How do you recognize quality puppy food? There are a lot of choices to choose from when you go to buy puppy food. So how do you choose the one with the best quality? If you go for one of the well-known, popular, and widely consumed brands, the chances are that the puppy food of these brands is of high quality; hence, their popularity. So, do not be reluctant to spend some bucks, and get your beloved puppy the food it deserves. What is to be done if your puppy is not eating? Not all puppies are greedy for more and more food. It is a proven fact that puppies tend to eat more when they are eating in a group, and generally eat less when they are eating less. Hence, for the first few days that your puppy spends without its brothers and sisters, it may not eat as much and have a reduced appetite. Usually, a reduced appetite is not something to worry about, but it is best to mention it to your vet in the next checkup or if the problem continues to persist. Click here to find the best dog food for your Labrador Puppy When do you switch from puppy food to adult food? A small dog like a Chihuahua might become an adult when it is around 9 months of age. However, a larger dog breed like a Labrador will need another 4 to 6 months to become an adult. You also have to reduce the amount of food you give to your dog as it will not need as much food as an adult as it is needed as a puppy. You may also change dog food brands if you feel like it. Now that you are aware of different alternatives of puppy food that are available for you, and of some main questions regarding dogs and their food, it is time for you to decide what type of food will suit your dog the best and what brand you are going to purchase your dog food from if you are not making a homemade meal. If you want to find the best pet insurance for your labrador, click here. Does it matter if the puppy is spayed or neutered? A labrador puppy can start eating adult dog food once they reach the age of months, certain factors need to be considered. Have you ever wondered why puppies and adults eat different food? Puppy food is specially designed to be nutrient-dense to meet their nutritional needs. On the other hand, adult dog food contains nutrients that suited to animals that have passed their growth phase. As they grow, what they need to eat changes. Also, their age at which they transform to adult dog food may vary. For these reasons, your best contact regarding the changes should be your veterinarian. Many owners of lab retrievers report that energetic dogs snack for a longer period of time compared to calm dogs. The lifespan of large dogs tends to be shorter than that of small dogs. If your pooch falls into this category, his diet must contain more calories compared to what he expended. It is only possible to feed him puppy food for a few days until he reaches adulthood. Some of the maturity signs include the following: Your pooch becomes less interested in eating puppy food. The pooch starts sleeping more than usual and shows signs of exhaustion. Your pooch frequently poos right after eating his special puppy food. There are specific mineral balances needed for puppies of large breeds so that they develop their joints optimally and on schedule. Large Breed-Specific Foods Large breed-specific foods exclusively developed for canines such as labrador retrievers. Due to the tendency of labrador retrievers to suffer from hip dysplasia, large-breed foods provide additional joint support thereby keeping them on their toes, as they grow. A Labrador can become obese very easily, but large breeds have lower calorie intake, so that the apparently insatiable appetite of a dog satisfied when the meal is over and it does not feel the need to eat endlessly. Choices can be quite overwhelming since there are so many options available. A great tip for choosing a dog food is to take the individual needs of the dog into account. Such as the age and other health related issues. And then choose the best one according to your needs. Due to their double coat, Labrador retrievers shed excessively. It is therefore necessary to choose a diet that allows them to shed less and maintain a shiny coat. When it comes to allergies in dogs, there are low-ingredient foods that might be suitable. Similarly, if your dog has joint problems, you should feed them a high-quality food that supports their joints. Pick Food Brand Wisely By feeding your labrador the most appropriate food, you can help your labrador enjoy a happy healthy life. But do not fret. Learning how to switch labrador puppy food to senior food, actually is not as difficult as it sounds. One thing to keep in mind is that the process is multi-step, making it a time-consuming process. Your dog will feel just as uncomfortable as you do. Thus, change gradually over a period of one week. The following steps explain how to switch lab puppy to adult dog food. Rather, you should substitute the old food for the new to achieve a balance between them. Ideally, you should give your dog about 75 percent old food and 25 percent new dog food. For now, you should feed him the same amount of new and old food. FAQs At what age should labrador puppies be switched to adult dog food? The majority of manufacturers recommend feeding your labrador puppy food up to 12 months of age and then switching to adult food. What are some signs that my puppy is ready to be fed adult food? According to general guidelines, young dogs should be weaned to adult food around the 75th to 85th percentile of their adult size, around the time when naturally their growth rate slows down. At what age do labradors become adults? Labradors mature at a rather fast pace, achieving full adult height between 6 and 12 months, although they may still grow until age two. How do puppy foods differ from adult dog foods? Puppy food and adult dog food differ greatly in their nutritional composition. Puppy food targets both growth and reproduction while adult dog foods target their maintenance nutritional needs. Most commonly, the energy level of your pooch will drop right after surgery. Post navigation. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies.