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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:. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Once they reach eight weeks, changing to dry kibble food is best. We recommend feeding a Labrador puppy dry kibble for the first months before changing to an adult food type. But to remain healthy, owners should know what to feed them. Dog owners should feed a Labrador puppy dry food kibble , wet food, or fresh human food, depending on their budget and lifestyle. There are many options for food for dogs, and it can become challenging to determine which one is the best option for the dog. We have found the best options and listed them below. They help us with our daily tasks, are always there when we need them, and bring great joy to our lives. But, it is essential to ensure that our dog gets the best nutrition possible. They have a lot of energy and need to be fed accordingly. This includes the number of calories, food type, and the number of meals per day. We will explain all of these factors to help understand what to feed these precious animals. A Labrador puppy needs high-quality protein in their diet, so they should not be fed just any type of food. This is why we recommend three food options: dry food or kibble, fresh food or human food, or wet food. We prefer using dry food or kibble in most cases, but it is beneficial to start with wet food for young puppies and transition to dry food after a few weeks. Feeding a puppy human food is possible, but it can be more expensive and requires extra work to stick to a cleaner diet at this age. We have found it to be a healthier and more convenient option for our pets. It is also a good alternative to wet food which can be difficult to store and prepare. The benefits of dry dog food are that it offers the pup a balanced diet that doesn't need refrigeration. It also offers convenience because we can buy it in bulk and store it in the pantry or freezer until needed. Dry dog food is also less expensive than wet food, which is another benefit for pet owners. Fresh Food Human Food Feeding a Labrador puppy a diet of fresh, real human food is one of the best things to do for their health and well-being. It will not only make them happy and content, but it will also keep them healthy. This eliminates the guessing game; they are only fed real, natural foods with no unknown ingredients. However, it will become expensive and require regular cooking and preparation. Wet Food Wet food is recommended for Labrador puppies when they are first born and for the first weeks while they grow. It can be either raw or cooked. Wet food is a good source of water and minerals, which are important in the early days of their life to help them grow strong bones and teeth. It should be given to a puppy as soon as it comes out of its mother's womb, but it must not be given before it starts eating solid foods because it will cause diarrhea. Once they get more mature, moving to kibbles is best. It is known for its low level of grain and carbohydrate content and high protein content. Once they reach the week mark, there are better options to help the puppy continue to develop and grow. This food also helps with digestion and weight management. It also promotes proper bone growth with antioxidants and necessary nutrients like vitamin E. The kibble is also shaped strategically to help puppies who chew fast while helping with jaw growth. Overall, this is the best food option for a Labrador puppy. It is designed for all life stages, from puppies to seniors, and we love the benefits it provides to younger labs. The product features a blend of highly digestible proteins, omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, taurine, and glucosamine. This ensures the dog gets the nutrition they need while also reducing the risk of digestive tract problems such as bloat or pancreatitis. It also has a low glycemic index and no corn, wheat, or soy in the recipe. Dog owners can also expect an excellent protein ratio when using this food. Both veterinarians and nutritionists have recognized it for its high-quality ingredients for young puppies. The Acana High Protein formula is made with a blend of chicken, turkey, and fish meals, whole eggs, and natural beef or lamb meal. The product has a limited ingredient list with no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. It also has no added sugar and a low glycemic index. This food also contains probiotics and prebiotics to help the pet maintain a healthy immune system. This is the perfect dry dog food for puppies after eight weeks old. This brand is also very affordable for those who want to feed their dog a healthy diet without breaking the bank. It features a patented recipe that helps to promote healthy digestion, strong teeth and gums, healthy skin and shiny coat, a strong immune system, healthy joints and muscles, and a healthy heart. This is a high-protein food option for Labradors too. It promotes lean muscle growth and improved body health with omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics 5. It is made with high-quality ingredients and has a great taste and texture for labs to enjoy. This food is to help with puppy development and is suitable for all Labradors under one-year-old. This wet food provides the perfect balance of healthy proteins to support a dog's growth while providing the energy they need to maintain its fitness levels. This can be fed as a meal or as an occasional snack between meals. It has no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or added sugar. It also contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which are important for healthy skin and the dog's coat. They are large, strong, intelligent dogs that need a lot of attention, exercise, and food. These dogs can be picky eaters and usually need a lot of calories because of their size. This is especially true for puppies so they can grow properly and remain healthy due to their increased risk of health issues. Food Type Labrador puppies' most popular dog foods are kibbles and canned wet food. Kibbles are the best option for a puppy because they are easy to chew and digest. Canned food is a good option for pups who have difficulty chewing or digesting dry food and would benefit from a little moisture in their diet. The food type also depends on the owner. Dry food or kibbles are faster to prepare, while serving human food to a lab puppy requires extensive prep time. Nutritional Value When it comes to nutritional value, we want dog food that has high-quality protein and carbohydrates. This will help the puppy grow strong and healthy. This is why we need to take into account the nutritional value, quality of ingredients, and taste. It should be made with all-natural ingredients that are sourced from human-grade materials such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. A brand should have all the essential nutrients for a pup but still, be low in toxic elements and preservatives too. Dietary Restrictions Lastly, consider the dietary restrictions of the Labrador puppy before choosing a dog food option. This includes any allergies or health concerns for the dog and shopping for something that suits them best. For example, lab puppies must reach a certain carbohydrate and protein number daily. Labradors are also known to have allergies, especially young ones, so planning around this is crucial. A puppy should be fed at least three times a day, with a meal size that is appropriate for its body weight. They should also be given small daily snacks to keep them satisfied and happy, including treats to help with training. We feed our puppies the best that we can. We want to give them all the nutrients and vitamins they need. We also want to make sure that they are getting a balanced diet. The most important thing when feeding a Labrador puppy is that they get enough calories from their food every day. In the first weeks, the puppy should eat four smaller daily meals. Once the lab reaches three months, this can be changed to three meals per day. And after months, we recommend two meals per day. The key is not to change the calories much when the meals change but to simply modify the size of each meal to fit the total daily food amount. Feeding a Labrador puppy is not rocket science, but there are some things everybody should know about what to feed them and when to feed them. We have covered this basis, but changes need to be made as they age. This leads to a common question about changing food to fit the needs of a grown adult Labrador. The dog's age will determine how quickly they grow and how much energy they need. Lab puppies can stick with kibbles for up to 12 months. They are outgoing, active and affectionate companions who have a lot of energy and love making their owner happy. They have strong retrieving instincts as they were bred to be gun dogs, so they love both soft toys and diving into bodies of water. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your Labrador puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks you may wish to introduce a mush of minced protein such as beef, but always consult your vet first before changing your puppy's diet at this stage. Health During this time it is important to monitor your Lab for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach. Behaviour During most of this time your Labrador puppy will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. You will soon notice their attentiveness to you and their intense love of play — many Labs keep this caring and fun attitude for their whole lives if you foster it. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your Labrador's large size and young age. Labs are notoriously greedy and will quickly gobble down food and snatch treats from hands. You should familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid and hide as your puppy will soon find ways to get into forbidden snacks found only in bins. Labradors puppies instinctively like to 'dig' inside their water bowls so much of their water will end up on the ground. Make sure to get your puppy used to touching inside their small ears as they are prone to ear infections and will need regular checkups. Behaviour Due to the changes in their environment, your Labrador puppy will likely be under a significant amount of stress. It's important that you provide lots of attention and positive reinforcement for good behaviour at this time to establish boundaries early. Labradors are eager to love anyone but can be overbearing, so you should introduce them to a number of different people and environments so that they are not overwhelmed with excitement later in life. PUPPY By the time your Labrador Retriever reaches puppyhood their personality will be well developed and you will have established a loving, social friend who wants to maximise time with you and others. Your Labrador puppy will do well socially and behaviourally from puppy training classes as long as treats are involved. Nutrition Your Labrador puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. You may also wish to introduce them to fresh, lean raw meat — however, don't feed your puppy any meat you would not feed to a fellow human being. Bloat is potentially fatal but can be combatted by feeding your dog two smaller meals per day, a habit you should start while they are a puppy. A rough guide is that they should exercise for minutes per day and less after 5 years when many lose their appetite for long marathons of activity. Your pup will need brushing every few days, with more frequent grooming during seasonal changes to combat shedding. Bathing should be infrequent as this can damage the waterproofing of their coats, however, you should wash them after swimming or rolling in muck. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters after that. Studies showed that dogs supplemented with a diet of bovine colostrum had a quicker and stronger immune system response to CDV vaccine as compared to dogs fed a control diet. Colostrum supplemented dogs maintained a higher antibody level even after 40 weeks A diet supplemented with Colostrum helps bridge the immunity gap in puppies that occurs between 3 weeks and 5 months of age. Behaviour Do not be complacent with training your Labrador puppy — almost all are very gentle and well behaved, but this does not mean that training is unnecessary. Labs are very loving and patient with all that they meet, but they often do not know their own size. To combat this, they should be trained in how to act around small dogs and children to avoid intimidation or accidental injury. They will also benefit from obedience training to drop things from their mouths, avoid rushing across busy streets and make sure they come when called. Recommended Articles. Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. The source of protein matters when considering a high-quality diet. FATS The rest of the diet should be made up of fats, carbs, and vitamins. Labs need to have a correct protein -to-fat ratio, where protein takes the lead. Dogs tend to convert fat into glucose, so this is an important source of energy. Dogs rely mostly on protein and fats, but carbs are necessary. That said, a low carb diet is best for puppies. However, you still need the right percentage of carbs, since this gives your dog the sensation of being full. These include starches, fibers, and sugars. Try to opt for more complex carbs like starchy grain and veggies because these are easier to digest. Your Lab puppy will thrive when his or her diet includes: Vitamin B12 especially during puppy development , Vitamins A and E, C, Vitamin D, phosphorus, and calcium, Potassium Each of these required vitamins and minerals contributes to a healthy, happy, and energetic puppy. They also help offset issues like obesity. Vitamins A and E are important because they help your dog burn calories and promote eye and skin health. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, on the other hand, are part of a trifecta that works to strengthen teeth and bones. Potassium is a heart health-preserver. Labs with poor genetics are especially prone to orthopedic issues. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are common health problems for this breed. Glucosamine, an amino-sugar, together with chondroitin sulfate, helps replace and support naturally degrading cartilage during old age. Recently,"grain-free" foods are being championed as a preferred and even high-quality form of dog food. That's, not the whole story. An investigation launched by the FDA revealed that there are potential links between a form of canine heart disease and grain-free foods. So far, researchers have provided an update to this researchers have provided an update to this research staring that the issue may not just be grain-free diets. Grain-free may be part of other trends knows as "BEG"- boutique companies. Puppy diets don't' need to be complicated. They also don't need to include ingredients that humans might enjoy. Enjoyment doesn't necessarily bring any nutritional value to your puppy's development. Keep it simple, using the guidelines for fats, proteins, and carbs above and don't shy away from food with grains in them. It's not their presence that's a problem it's often the ratio. There shouldn't be more carbs or grains than protein. Nor does including only legumes, seeds, lentils, or chickpeas as the primary ingredients make the food more superior. It's perfectly healthy to include complex carb sources like starchy rice and other grains. Grain-free isn't and shouldn't be a qualifying factor for your choice in puppy food. Feeding Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is dried, pelleted food that stores well is easy to eat, and is pre-formulated with everything your puppy needs to thrive and grow in his early developmental months. There are plenty of popular brands that don't measure up to the Snowy Pines standard. That's why it's so vital for you to learn how to read puppy food labels. Puppies should stick with "puppy stage" food, while adults should stick to bags marked "adults. Instead, your dog should have regular bowel movements, allowing them to absorb all the nutrients available. You should also keep in mind that caloric intake is calculated a little differently for puppies. Kibble diets are measured by how many calories the proteins, fats, and carbs represent for each gram. For puppies, this should be 3. Sticking to these ratios will help ensure your kibble choice is a healthy one. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. You may have to supplement with dry food, especially if you're trying to keep the calories of carbs, proteins, and fats in the right per-gram ratio. Lab puppies are energetic little learners eager to run, swim, and fetch. Although active, they also tend to overeat and gulp down their food. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, healthy growth, weight management, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed puppy. Whether you have a Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, or Black Lab, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Labrador Retriever puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. The unique donut-shaped kibble is specially designed to help your fast eater slow down and actually chew. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong. Calcium and phosphorus support healthy bone structure, while a balanced energy content helps them maintain an ideal weight. Once your Lab puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Read more Promoting pet health and wellbeing Creating value for our entire ecosystem Committed to become certified carbon neutral by Cookie Settings. 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. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.
An hour later, the puppy has been running around the house, chugged a bunch of water, pees in the house again, and it starts all over… So how do we stop this cycle from happening? Step 1: Take Them Outside Often Some people recommend taking your puppy outside every 20 minutes, while others recommend every hour. The point is, take your puppy outside often before they need to go. Puppies can hold their bladder for about an hour per their age in months, so a two-month-old puppy can hold it for about two hours, a three-month-old puppy can hold it for about three hours, and so on. But now that playtime is over they suddenly remember they have to pee and this nice carpet looks like the perfect spot! You can use this to your advantage by taking them to the same spot every time. To stop this, you need to clean up accidents with an enzymatic cleaner , not regular soap and water. One issue that many people make we made it, too is praising them too loud and too soon, and interrupting them. Then grab them and bring them outside to their spot and if they finish going, praise them like normal for going outside. So if you do all of the steps above, how long should it take for your puppy to be potty trained? All puppies are different, but it can take two weeks to a few months for your golden retriever puppy to be potty trained. So they eventually pick what they think is an ideal spot and go potty out of necessity. We all know that puppies pee-a LOT! It seems like they have tiny little bladders. But how long can they hold it before they have to go? Usually, puppies can hold it for somewhere around an hour per month of age. So if your puppy is one month old, one hour, two months old, two hours, three months old, three hours, etc. You just take them outside to go potty and praise them when they go outside. You just take your pup outside before it has time to realize they need to potty. Instead, it ensures that your pup goes outside and never gets the idea that going inside is acceptable. Most pup parents screw up by not taking their pups outside frequently enough, so they have accidents in the house. They go on to get mad at the puppy who has no idea why their owner is scolding them. A little while later, after the pup has drank a bunch of water or wolfed down a ton of food and then had a good romp, the puppy goes in the house again and starts the process all over again. Some say every hour, while others say every 20 minutes. This means to potty train your puppy quickly, you should avoid these accidents entirely and keep ahead of them. This is NOT playtime! Puppies have the attention span of goldfish, so even though they went outside with the initial intention of going potty, they can completely forget why they came outside when they start playing and then just not go. Instead, you can walk around in circles around the area or pace. This can be both an advantage and a disadvantage for you. Golden Retrievers were originally bred to be hunting dogs, which means they come equipped with an intensely strong sense of smell. Neither soap and water nor regular household cleaners are going to work, no matter what exaggerated claims they make about their odor-fighting power. The reason enzymatic cleaners work is that they chemically break down the odors and destroy them. Golden Retrievers respond really well to positive reinforcement. In fact, they eat it up. They love making you happy! You should be vigilant about supervising your puppy, and not just for potty training reasons. Crate training your Golden Retriever puppy is a great idea. Remember to praise them for going potty outside! Step 5: Handle and Clean Up Accidents Properly The unfortunate truth of potty training is that there will inevitably be accidents. If you catch them in the middle of going potty in the house, find a kind way to startle them. Say it quickly, clearly, and use a voice a little louder than your usual speaking voice. If your puppy finishes going potty outside, then you should praise them and maybe give them a treat. How long does it take to potty train a Golden Retriever puppy? Every puppy is different, and so is their learning speed. You can expect it to take anywhere from two weeks to a couple of months to potty train your Golden Retriever puppy. This can include things like barking, pawing, biting, or nipping. My Heidi grumbles at me. Sitting by the front door or scratching at it. I once had a dog that would go stand at the door and wag his tail when he had to go. It can be a really frustrating process for everyone involved. There will be mistakes, made by both your puppy and you. Depending on your puppy and your training techniques, it can take somewhere between 2 weeks and a couple of months to potty train a Golden Retriever puppy. Because Golden Retrievers are large breed dogs, they tend to pick up potty training faster than smaller breeds. Your puppy can only hold their bladder for around one hour per each month of age. So, if your puppy is 3 months old, you can expect that they can hold it for around 3 hours. Plan to wake up throughout the night to let your puppy out. Adopt the NOAH potty training strategy. And take your puppy outside before you think they have to go. This means letting them out every 30 minutes. Any time your puppy has an accident inside, clean it up with an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate the odor. If you happen to catch your puppy having an accident in progress, interrupt the action, and take the puppy outside. If your puppy resumes going potty outside, then praise and reward them. Praise and reward your Golden Retriever puppy every time they go potty outside, or where you want them to go. Pay attention to your puppy and learn the warning signs that your puppy needs to go. There will be a learning curve. For instance, some puppies prefer grass over things like dirt and mulch. Once you figure that out, you can take your puppy to a nice grassy place to potty. Crate training goes hand-in-hand with potty training. Use the NOAH strategy and try to avoid accidents in the house at all costs. This will make the process go a lot quicker. And lastly, learn the warning signs that your puppy provides to let you know that they need to go potty. Learn more » Golden Retrievers are intelligent, social dogs that love being around people. Potty training a Golden Retriever puppy can be frustrating and messy, but with some consistency and patience, your dog can be taught how to appropriately handle his business. Just keep in mind that accidents will likely happen. A puppy can typically hold its bladder 1 hour for every month of age, which means a 3-month-old pup can control its bladder for 3 hours. Once you pick a bathroom spot for your Golden, always take him to that spot on a leash. Reward Your Puppy Every Time He Eliminates Outside As soon as your Golden does his business outside in the designated area, reward him with praise or give him a yummy dog treat. Crate Train Your Golden A dog crate can come in very useful when potty training a puppy, as it allows you to watch for signs he needs to go out. Just make sure the crate you use is big enough for your puppy to move around freely but small enough to stop him from using a corner as a pee and poop spot. When done correctly, crate training can teach your dog to enjoy spending time in his crate. Image Credit: Parilov, Shutterstock 5. Clean Up After All Accidents Dogs have the habit of eliminating in the same places over and over again. This is why you should clean up after any previous accidents your Golden pup has had. Use an effective enzymatic cleaner that will do a good job of cleaning up and removing the smell of pee and poop. Image Credit: Olimpik, Shutterstock 7. When food is offered at the same times each day, potty training your Golden Retriever will be easier for you and your pup. Conclusion Potty training a Golden Retriever is not all that difficult to do if you follow these helpful tips and tricks. There is nothing cuter than a puppy… until it makes that first hot, steamy mess on your new Persian rug. Potty-training frustrations have formed more than a few wedges between new pet parents and their fur babies. Fortunately, with a bit of knowledge, consistency and patience, spending time on your knees scrubbing up pet stains can be a thing of the past! Training Methods to the Madness There are four popular house-training methods utilized by owners: Crate training Constant-supervision Umbilical-cord training. Some people stick to one method, while others use a combination of these different approaches to best suit their lifestyle. Crate Training Crate training works on two genetic principles: the safety of a den and the need to keep it clean. When the pups are old enough, they learn to eliminate outside of their den. Your puppy has these same genetic rules in his brain: the den is a safe place and it needs to be kept clean. Crates utilize these instinctual rules. Therefore, if you put your puppy in the crate, he learns to hold his bladder until you take him to the appropriate spot. The crate is a tool to utilize any time you cannot actively watch your puppy. When your puppy is out, you MUST supervise him at all times. Any time he has an accident in the house, this sets your training back. Some people feel that crate training is cruel. Crates are simply tools. Crate training gives you a break. So go take that bubble bath without fear of an accident! Crate training means no indoor messes to clean up, and no indoor potty smells to trigger repeat performances after being attracted by the scent. When puppies get used to sleeping in their own filth, they lose this natural instinct to keep their crates clean. If crate training is only used to confine your puppy for long periods of time, he may associate it with negative things — such as isolation. Make sure you use the crate in positive ways so your pup associates comfort and good things, such as food, with the crate — not just being left alone. Who Should Use Crate Training? Paper Training Paper training teaches a puppy to go to the bathroom on paper or puppy pads. This allows you to control where your puppy piddles. Begin by putting the puppy in a confined area of the house with tile flooring for easy clean up. Puppies like to eliminate on soft places, so putting paper down gives them this solution. Put paper or puppy pads on all hard surfaces. Your puppy will avoid eliminating on his bed and will use the paper, since it covers all other surfaces. Once he gets the idea, you can slowly begin eliminating the paper, starting with material closest to the bed. Leave a small piece of slightly soiled paper where you want your puppy to continue to eliminate. This utilizes the principle that puppies like to eliminate where they smell their previous offerings. The goal is for your puppy to learn to go only on the paper. If you want to eventually have your puppy eliminate outside, you can then slowly move the paper towards the door, and then put some paper outside. When your puppy goes to the paper inside, you can open the door and let them go on the paper outside. You then slowly take away the inside paper until they are going to the door to use only the outside paper. Cons of Paper Training If your goal is to get your puppy to eliminate outside, paper training can lengthen house training because your dog is taught to go inside the house first and you then have to basically re-train them. You also have a lot of stinky messes to clean up. Who Should Use Paper Training? Paper training gives your puppy room to play, while still allowing him to eliminate without the need for owner intervention. Constant-Supervision Training Constant-supervision training means that you never take your eyes off your puppy. You learn how to identify when you puppy needs to go, and at the first signal of circling or sniffing you scoop up your fur kid and take him to his potty spot in the yard. This training method requires a lot of intense observation and is best suited for only the most vigilant of owners. Pros of Constant-Supervision Training Your pup has a lot more freedom, and you are there for his every action. When you turn your back for a second — and you will — your puppy will sneak off and make a mistake in the house. This method can take longer than crate training. You must have the time to completely devote to your puppy during the housebreaking period, or you will be cleaning up a lot of messes on your carpet. Constant-supervision training may be best if you have plenty of time to devote solely to the new addition. You must also be constantly home during the potty-training period. You still watch your puppy during his every waking moment, but you use a six-foot leash to keep him tethered to you. You then watch for the signals that your puppy needs to go and take him outside. Pros of Umbilical-Cord Training You only need a leash to start the training, and you can also train your puppy to walk on the leash at the same time. Your puppy gets the exposure and socialization that comes with going everywhere with you. Cons of Umbilical-Cord Training You must have your puppy tied to you at all times, which can be difficult. This can be dangerous if they get caught up in something. If you like constant-supervision training, but want the added security of not losing track of your pup, umbilical-cord training may be a better option. Again, you must be able to keep your puppy with you wherever you go during the day. Your puppy is not eliminating in the house to be spiteful. Do NOT personalize this process. At 8 weeks, most puppies cannot last past two hours. At 12 weeks, this time extends to three hours. At 16 weeks, puppies can wait up to four hours between potty breaks. Punishing a puppy when you find the mess is not helpful and damages your relationship. If you find a mess, simply clean it up. Puppies operate on schedules. When you adapt to the same schedule, you can anticipate their needs and set them up for success. Puppies potty after a long nap, after a meal and after a good play session. They will also need to go out first thing in the morning and right before bed. Your puppy will give you signals when they need to go , such as moving away from you, circling, sniffing or squatting. Puppies tend to go back to the same place they have soiled before. If you do have an accident in the house, you must eliminate all traces of the odor to avoid a repeat offender. Reward your puppy for going to the bathroom where you want. If you catch them in the act of making a mess in the wrong place, distract them, and then pick them up to take them to the proper location to finish. With consistency, they begin to make the word association. The best way to house train a puppy for you may be sticking to one plan, or utilizing multiple approaches to achieve a perfectly house-trained pet. With a little guidance and a lot of love, you and your puppy will find the right balance of a well-behaved dog and an unsoiled Persian rug! This series contains everything a Golden owner needs to know on the subject and should have your puppy or dog toilet trained in the fastest, most effective and painless way for all involved. We strongly recommend reading through the whole series before you begin, to give yourself the skills and knowledge for the greatest chance at speedy success.
Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. So, while this is not a reason not to get a GSD, it is a reason to look for adequate breeders, to ask for health certificates, to take good care of your dog, and to go to routine vet check-ups. German Shepherds can also be costly to take care of not just to purchase The regular vet visits, the high need for exercise, and the extra-space requirements all make the GSD a relatively expensive dog to take care of in terms of money as well. German Shepherds are very smart but that also makes them easily bored — they require lots of mental stimulation As with all smart dog breeds such as retrievers and other shepherds, the high intelligence of the GSD can be a curse as much as a blessing. So, what can be done to avoid boredom? Toys and time. However, an inexperienced dog owner can find a GSD to be more than a handful. Why is that? Simple — because they are so smart! Yes, their intelligence means that you can train them a lot but it also means they can be temperamental, manipulative, and stubborn! This breed is cute and cuddly at home but socially awkward in public German shepherds are incredibly cute, social, and loving animals. They are loyal to their family and would do anything for those close to them. What does this mean for you? Even if you just get a random GSD and not give it any special training or socialization, the dog may still get along just fine with a cat or a newborn baby. However, in general, the social awkwardness and guard-dog nature of GSDs means that they often need to be socialized well if you want to make other additions to the households down the line. Make sure that you teach your growing GSD to get along with other dog breeds in the dog park or at home. If you have a cat or are thinking of getting a cat, make sure your German Shepherd is accustomed to interacting with cats without any aggression. One of the best and easiest ways to avoid most of the problems above is to just get a second German Shepherd! Yes, we did just say that this breed can be a handful. However, a second dog usually brings much more benefits than negatives: The second dog will join the first in the playtime, meaning that both will exercise with each other very often and minimize the need for your involvement. Having a second GSD also means more mental stimulation for both dogs — again, less work for you and more fun for them. As natural guard dogs, German Shepherds may need to be trained not to bark Unfortunately, GSDs are especially bad for apartment owners not just because they are big but also because they tend to bark at strangers. They are guard dogs after all. This can be avoided, of course, there are ways to train any dog not to bark at strangers or at outside noises. There are several reasons for this: The frequent barking we mentioned above. Yes, you can train that behavior away but your landlord may still forbid you from getting a GSD. Getting a carpet or another type of floor insulation will help here. Giving your dog enough playtime outside will also alleviate this problem. But you may still get in trouble with your neighbors. They are just a large breed and many people, including parents of small children, are afraid of large dogs. Not only are GSDs not hypoallergenic, but they also tend to shed a lot! There are two main reasons for this: The aforementioned health concerns that some German Shepherds have and that get more and more likely as the dog gets older. The simple fact that the GSD is a large dog breed and larger breeds just have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. As you can see, there are lots of factors to consider before getting a GSD. In general, the right GSD owner can be characterized as such: Has a larger-than-average home, a yard, and a nearby dog park. Has enough time to spend with a German Shepherd. Knows how to train and socialize a GSD properly. Has the financial means to support a German Shepherd. Wants a second dog to play with the first one. How to prepare for getting a German Shepherd? Just like soon-to-be-parents before their first baby, there are lots of books and research to comb through if you want to give your future German Shepherd the care, upbringing, socialization, and care it needs. So Make sure your home is ready for a large dog to soon start springing through it. Make sure you have the time and daily schedule to play with a GSD. Consider owning a Cairn Terrier! In this article, we explore who would benefit them as furry friends! Check them here! Read on to discover nine types of people who should consider owning this unique breed. Check this article to learn more about the types of people who are perfect for owning a Poodle dog! Despite how great they are, they take time and commitment. Probably more so than most other breeds. However, even the best dogs come with their own set of challenges. Some traits are very similar, and some vary greatly between dogs, but most share typical traits of the German shepherd breed. Puppies are hard work Despite their irresistible cuteness, German shepherd puppies are hard work. Along with their need for lots of training, they are curious, bold, and into everything that captures their attention. They also love to puppy bite and chew everything that moves, including hands, feet, furniture, personal belongings, and small children. Puppy proofing the house and teaching them what is and is not okay to play bite is not optional when one of these tiny land sharks moves in. They need their people around From young pups to seniors, German shepherds become very bonded with their owners. Adult and senior dogs are happiest when their owners are nearby. If you work, you might consider day care, a dog walker, a dog sitter, or even another dog to keep them company. They are dog athletes and need lots of room to run and play so that they can burn off excess energy. They also have a lot of stamina and require plenty of time to get their exercise needs met. They get bored easily To say German shepherds are smart is an understatement. This breed is very clever and will invent things to keep their mind occupied when not given enough time, training, attention, and exercise. A bored shepherd can easily transform into a mischievous shepherd. They need lots of activities to keep their mind engaged as well as their body. The good news is, when you give them time and attention, they love nothing more than to focus on you. They can be expensive to take care of There is no such thing as a free dog but German shepherds cost more than other dogs to raise. For starters, the larger the dog, the more expensive it is to feed, spay or neuter. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention costs more for larger dogs. They also tend to require premium foods to keep their sensitive skin and stomachs happy. They can be prone to allergies, breed specific health problems, and certain orthopedic issues that can equal expensive vet bills. When getting a new puppy, pet insurance is something to seriously consider. Prepare to invest in lots of toys German shepherds love to play and are also power chewers. Most can quickly destroy even the toughest toys and chews. When you own a shepherd, gone are the days of a toy lasting for years. They shed on everything German shepherds shed all year round and twice a year, massively shed. They are totally worth the work but may not be the breed for people who like things kept spotless. They have a prey drive German shepherds were bred to be herding dogs so they have a strong prey drive. Which means, they love to chase things. This drive is fun because it makes them totally into a game of fetch or Frisbee. It also means they may love to chase things, including small animals like squirrels, rabbits, cats, hamsters, etc. Can some dogs get along with other small pets? Are some dogs, especially those with stronger working lines harder to train and may be unsafe with small pets? Talk to your breeder or test the dog before bringing it home whenever possible. Socialization is not optional These dogs are powerful, naturally protective, and extremely devoted to their family. They can also be leery and standoffish with strangers. Teaching them how to be confident, greet people, and to prevent unwanted guarding behavior is one of the most important things they need to learn from a young age. Playful and lively Despite being fearless, they are also very playful and love nothing more than having fun with their family. They love to play games, learn new things, go for rides in the car, adventure, and spend time hanging out with the people they love. Loyal to the end There is no breed more loyal than a German shepherd. They live to please and protect those they adore. They are happiest when near their family and will spend every day of their life watching over their loved ones. They make the best companions and friends to those lucky enough to own one. Before you bring this dog home, there are a few things to understand about the German Shepherd breed. They are highly intelligent. German Shepherds are animals that catch on quickly to almost everything. Your daily routine, commands, and household expectations are all things that are a breeze for them. With intelligence comes a lot of stubbornness. They require mental stimulation. Long walks are enough to tire out a lot of dog breeds, but with their intelligence, these dogs need more than just physical activity. German Shepherds are working dogs, and they benefit when there is a mental challenge as well as a physical one. If you genuinely want to tire them out, you must incorporate physical exercise with mental exercise. They have a lot of energy. Many German Shepherds benefit from agility courses to give them the appropriate amount of exercise. When you keep them stimulated, they are less likely to act out and cause destruction around the house. Image Credit: Niels Hansen, Pixabay 4. German Shepherds fiercely love their owners. German Shepherds tend to bond more closely to one family member than the rest. Still, they are lovers instead of fighters. They want to spend just as much time cuddling with you at night as they want to be out working during the day. They are great listeners. What else would you expect with those enormous ears perched on top of their heads? Those radar ears are listening to even the most minor sounds, and they are always eager to hear your voice. Image Credit: Capri23auto, Pixabay 6. German Shepherds were bred to be guard dogs. German Shepherds were originally bred to guard the fields of sheep and cattle. Whenever an intruder or predator came onto their land, they immediately alerted their keeper. Without the proper training, this behavior is sometimes territorial and can be aggressive towards other dogs and strangers. However, with the proper training, it makes you feel at ease whenever you go to bed at night. They are clingy. Not every German Shepherd is clingy, but this breed is known for following people everywhere they go. They are known to bark and howl when left alone for long periods. They are better suited for experienced dog owners. German Shepherds are a handful. These dogs require constant training and dedication. Without it, they could be aggressive or destructive. Image Credit: nori jaafer, Pixabay .They do better in pairs. Owning a dog is a better experience when it is mutually beneficial to both of you. Related Reads:. Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Are you at home to devote time and training to their growth? What open space environment is your home? German Shepherds are on the no dog list in apartment buildings. Do you have a family with other pets? Also, a good breeder will ask you why do you want this particular breed? The breeder should be concerned that a German Shepherd puppy is being placed within the best living environment. Here are some insights to help you bring home the perfect German Shepherd puppy: Types of German Shepherd Puppies Pure-bred German Shepherd puppies are available in a variety of colors and built. The typical description is light brown and black. Black: Rare and beautiful. Their coloring is either all black or a deep dark bluish hair tint. Panda: their coloring consists of black, white, and tan. This is their natural coloring, not contributed to being a mixed breed. Sable: A unique coloring of this breed consists of light black, grey, tan, or gold. As puppies, the Sable German Shepherd puppies are fully tan. As they age, fur begins to develop stronger natural colors. White: No, this German Shepherd breed is not due to albino coloring. Though rate, white is their natural coloring. This German Shepherd puppy will be smaller in size, whether male or female. The reason for this question is that German Shepherds are intelligent and engaging breeds. They can be trained to thrive in any situation and climate. Their ability to cope in any situation is amazing. German Shepherds make great companions, protective family pets, and they are hard workers. Knowing how to choose a German Shepherd puppy, you are wondering what things you should look for. In other words, you are looking to see if it has a good temperament. German Shephard puppies demand and exhibit affection rather aggressively. Parental Traits If you are choosing a puppy from a kennel or a breeder, inquire about its parental background. You want to know if both parents were healthy and friendly. Carefully Examine the Puppy You want to look again for a puppy that is active and healthy. To choose the best German Shepherd puppy, you must become an amateur canine detective and examine the puppy closely. Here are things to look for: A German Shepherd puppy should not look thin. Instead, they should look full-bodied. Their eyes should appear bright and clear. Also, you must invade their personal space by examining their butt area to make sure it is clean. Their nose should be clean and not runny. Their teeth and gums look healthy. Their hair coat should not have bald spots and should not be matted. Your German Shepherd puppy should be free from odors. Pick a puppy that has a good gait, and their tail is up and actively wagging. All puppies need their mothers when they are very young. A German Shepherd puppy can be purchased when they are between the ages of eight and twelve weeks old. If you decide on an older puppy, just make sure that it has retained its socialization skills with both people and other animals. Make sure that the puppy has gotten all its vaccinations and deworming medication. However, within 48 hours of purchase, take your German Shepherd puppy to your vet for a complete exam. The Kennel or Breeder Environment Whether you are purchasing your German Shepherd puppy from a kennel or a private seller, look at the conditions of both. How does the kennel look to you? Both kennels and private breeder yards should be clean, and all puppies should have clean water. Please do not buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder where the conditions are unclean. How Instinctive Are You? Many potential dog-owners state that they knew that this was the one when they first saw their puppy. We all have instincts; therefore, you will know what the right buying environment is when you look at the puppies. If you get a feeling that something is not right, leave and find a different breeder. When you purchase your German Shepherd puppy and bring that bundle of joy home, you want to feel confident that you have made the best decision. After all, the relationship with your German Shepherd puppy can last easily for up to thirteen years. Male vs. Female German Shepherd There are many people who only choose a German Shepherd puppy because of their gender or appearance. What is most important in purchasing any puppy is their physical and mental stability. Gender and looks should never be a deciding factor when choosing a dog that will live in your family for the next 12 years or more. Please perform thorough breeder research so that you can choose the right German Shepherd puppy that will fit into your living lifestyle for years to come. Do you want to select a female puppy for future breeding? If not, both your male and female German Shepherd puppy should be spayed and neutered. Female German Shepherds are found to have a sweeter temperament than their male counterparts. Male German Shepherds are more territorial. They also are a little more stubborn and proud. Male German Shepherds are generally larger than their female counterparts. The male can grow to a height range of up to 26 inches. Meanwhile, the female can grow to a height of up to 24 inches tall. Their weight will range from a full-bodied 75 to 95 pounds. When you are trying to decide whether to purchase a male vs. They make excellent watchdogs. Socialize Therefore, if you are going to be around other individuals each day, your German Shepherd puppy must be trained to accept people outside their family unit. Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to strangers so that they will feel comfortable in front of people. By introducing them to strangers, will help them stay calm. They do not like to be left alone for too long. Because they were originally bred for herding, German Shepherds have high energy and thus require physical and mental stimulation. Make sure you have the time and patience to own a German Shepherd puppy. In patiently taking time with their active habits, it will work out to your benefit. They become loyal and loving breeds, especially when raised in a family setting. Remember the TV show Dog Whisperer? The host always referred to a dog requiring a pack leader. German Shepherds must learn that you are the pack leader. If not, they will take the dominant lead, and this is not good. They must be trained and actively exercised to be happy. German Shepherds love to explore and investigate everything. If you live in an area where there are porcupines, lookout. Young German Shepherd puppies will probably come home with quills all over their body. Well, you would be wrong. A German Shepherd puppy will want to correct this wrong and approach another porcupine! Grooming a German Shepherd puppy is simple and easy. Yes, they do shed year-round, so brush them occasionally. But mostly keep their nails trimmed, their teeth and ears cleaned. Dog breeders believe that to help your new German Shepherd puppy adjust from a litter to your new home, they should be crate trained. They need to feel safe and comfortable. Crate training is a learning experience for a German Shepherd puppy, but it eventually helps them get used to a family who perhaps must go off to work every day. Further Reading. This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available. German Shepherds are highly intelligent, loyal and loving. For example, shepherds require consistent mental and physical exercise and prefer not to spend long hours alone. If you travel regularly, a shepherd might not be the best breed for you. Additionally, German shepherd puppies require consistent socialization early on and throughout their lives. This ensures problem behaviors do not have a chance to develop. In other words, buying a German Shepherd requires commitment on the part of the owner. Yet, that commitment pays off in years of loving and loyal companionship. Are you considering adding a German Shepherd to the family? Experienced GS breeders have in-depth knowledge of the breed and are committed to producing top quality pups. Like all purebreds, German shepherds are prone to genetic disorders. Shepherds, for example, are at a high risk for hip dysplasia. Ultimately, choose a breeder that you can trust, that has references and a clean facility, and that has years of experiencing breeding German shepherds. Problems arise when shepherds do not have an outlet for their intelligence. Fortunately, training and regular physical and mental exercise will ensure your GS pup is happy and engaged. Start by having a training plan in place prior to purchasing a German Shepherd puppy. Obedience classes too can be a helpful bonding experience that will keep your puppy engaged and build trust. Additionally, plan to provide regular exercise for your dog. German shepherds love long walks and opportunities to expend pent-up energy. Dog sports and agility classes are one choice for helping your shepherd burn some of that unused energy. Yet, German shepherds do not behave like this. They show loyalty to a particular person but are suspicious or indifferent to strangers. This shyness can develop into aggressive or territorial behaviors if the dog is not properly socialized. Be prepared to introduce your shepherd to different situations, people and other animals as a puppy and continually throughout its life. In fact, some experts recommend introducing your GS puppy to up to new people and 50 different locations within the first 12 weeks of life. A German shepherd that has not been properly socialized may wrongly assume a delivery man or lawn mower is a threat. Yet, that hard work pay offs; shepherd puppies provide years of loving companionship and serve as a loyal and devoted family members. But before you make the leap, make sure you understand the unique needs of the breed. First, choose a reliable German shepherd breeder with a track record of producing top quality dogs. Then, be prepared to provide consistent mental, physical and emotional stimulation throughout its life.
Although spaying or neutering is not compulsory, it is highly advisable to spay your French Bulldog. This will help to decrease its chances of getting certain kinds of cancer. It also prevents the risk of unwanted breeding between your French Bulldog and any nearby dog. Are French Bulldogs Aggressive? French Bulldogs have the potential to be aggressive. However, they are not usually aggressive unless they are trained that way. It is important to note that they may show aggression towards other dogs or smaller animals. Owners should watch out for signs of aggression and nip them in the bud. What is the life expectancy of a French Bulldog? With a proper diet and nutrition, French Bulldogs can live for up to eleven or thirteen years. Can French Bulldogs eat raw meat? French Bulldogs can eat raw meat such as chicken, liver or kidney. They could also eat canned, dry food. What is the difference between a French Bulldog and an English Bulldog? French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are quite similar but different at the same time. English bulldogs are bigger while the French Bulldog is considerably smaller. French Bulldogs also have upright pointy ears whereas the English breed has folded ears. Do I have to worry about fleas with French Bulldogs? Just like all other breeds, French Bulldogs can get fleas. If they do get fleas, this can be solved by getting flea medicine or using a flea comb to get rid of the fleas. How do you deal with separation anxiety in French Bulldogs? French Bulldogs are very prone to separation anxiety. To curb this, owners can crate train their dogs or provide them with chew toys. What is the best way to train your French Bulldog? Crate training is one of the best ways to train your French Bulldog. It helps to create good and positive behavior in your Frenchie and could be a fun place for it to rest. Are French Bulldogs children-friendly? French Bulldogs are not the best option for kids. However, if they grow up surrounded by children, the risk could be lessened. They should not be left unsupervised around kids. How big are French Bulldogs? The French Bulldog is about 11 or 12 inches tall and weighs an average of pounds. Are you interested in purchasing a French Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. We work hard to maintain the highest standards of health and pedigrees to ensure that our puppies grow into healthy and happy adults. That is how we match french bulldog puppies with their families forever. We are dedicated to providing you with the best service and support throughout the entire process, from selecting your frenchton to bringing them home We certainly know how exciting it is to bring a new french bulldog puppie into the family. For this reason we bring to you the most frequently asked doubts: asked by our frenchies lovers before taking a new puppy home. Are french bulldog easy to train? French bulldog puppies are not the easiest to train, but not the most difficult either. It is important to stick to a routine patiently for 6 to 8 months to let your furry understand it. Please take into account that it is a puppy, from month 8 onwards you can do more strong activities such as jumping or running as it will be appropriately grown to do so. Is french bulldog smart? Tenderly called Frenchies, this breed is considered active, well-behaved and intelligent according to the American Kennel Club AKC , their owners and soon you will too! They are considered the most intelligent breed among bulldogs. French bulldogs puppies like to be the center of attention but are also eager to please their family members. Are french bulldog lazy? This is one of the most common myths about french bulldogs. Are they lazy? Having a proper exercise routine is important to control their weight. Playing with other dogs or with their parents is one of their favorite activities as well, They will be just as happy with you in the car or lying on the couch, but it will be up to you to create healthy and active habits for them. We have answers. What should I know about French Bulldog puppies for sale near Pensacola? French Bulldogs are a very popular breed of dog. They are small and stocky, with large, pointy ears, and feature a short, flat coat that comes in various colors. French Bulldogs need plenty of exercise and are loyal and social companions. Like most breeds, they need lots of training and interaction with their owners, and they are quite easy to train. They need daily walks, but are also content to sleep most of the day. French Bulldogs are also known for their affectionate nature, with happy, outgoing personalities. Are French Bulldog puppies for sale in Pensacola non-shedding? French Bulldogs are generally considered low-shedding dogs. However, they still do shed some fur. You should expect to see a light collection of fur on your clothes, furniture, and floors if you own a French Bulldog. French Bulldogs may also need daily brushing to keep their coat looking neat and to minimize excess shedding. Fortunately, if kept groomed properly, the amount of shedding is manageable. It may help to purchase a good vacuum cleaner and pet hair roller to pick up any shed fur when necessary. What should I feed Pensacola French Bulldog puppies for sale? French bulldogs are incredibly intelligent and loyal, and they require a certain degree of care and attention to maintain their health and wellness. While their diet may vary depending on their age, size, and activity level, it is generally recommended to feed them a nutritious, balanced diet with proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. It is best to feed them a high-quality, veterinary-recommended kibble that is specifically tailored to French bulldogs or other small breed dogs. How do I prepare to adopt French Bulldog puppies in Pensacola? Preparing for a French Bulldog can seem overwhelming, but with some research and planning, it can be a straightforward process! Begin by researching the breed and familiarizing yourself with its specific needs including exercise and dietary requirements. Consider a vet visit and determine which vaccinations and health checks need to be done. Ensure you have essential supplies ready, such as food, a bed, and leash. It can be helpful to look into local dog parks and training classes. Find a trusted sitter or dog walker for when you're not available. Are French Bulldogs for sale in Pensacola considered big dogs? French Bulldogs are considered small to medium-sized dogs, not "big" dogs, in comparison to other breeds. While they are larger than companion breeds like Chihuahuas, Malteses, and Yorkshire Terriers, they are still relatively compact. Adult Frenchies typically stand about inches tall and weigh up to 28 pounds, putting them squarely in the "smaller" category among most breeds. Though some French Bulldogs may appear large in stature, it's important to keep in mind that they are still smaller than many other breeds. Are French Bulldog puppies near Pensacola active dogs? French Bulldogs are small dogs with an abundance of personality. While they may have a calmer demeanor than some of their peers, they still require plenty of exercise and stimulation. French Bulldogs are particularly proficient at short bursts of activity, whether that is a game of fetch or interactive playtime. They also demonstrate acrobatic leaps, marvelously synchronized pawing, attentive alertness, and a quirkiness that can be quite endearing. Are French Bulldogs in Pensacola good with kids? Yes, French Bulldogs are great with kids! French Bulldogs are known for their loving natures and their devotion to their humans, which makes them the perfect companion to a child. Their quiet, mellow nature also makes them a great partner for cuddle time. How many minutes per day do I need to train Pensacola French Bulldogs for sale? Training French Bulldogs typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes two to three times a day. It's important to remember that this is a repetitive task, and the routine should be repeated to ensure that your French Bulldog is adequately trained. Consistency is key when it comes to this kind of training, so it's ideal if you can keep the same schedule for each session. French Bulldogs love and respond better to positive reinforcement, so be sure to reward your pup with treats or playtime during and after each session.
Website: appleridgegsd. They have been deeply committed to the breed for over a couple of years, and they are one of the only breeders in the state to have both AKC and SV German Shepherd Dog Club of America breeding permits. They are a small, family-run kennel that breeds German Shepherds for companionship or working purposes. They breed German Shepherd dogs that are versatile, stable, loving, loyal, extremely smart, and trainable from the best West German lines in the world. Their breeding stock is all OFA certified for hips, elbows, heart, and diabetes. Their breeding stock is also VWD-free, so their puppies will not contract the disease. They strive to breed German Shepherds that are healthy, happy and have good temperaments. They also have a small number of retired adults who are looking for loving homes! Please contact them if you are interested in adopting one of these pets. You are guaranteed lifetime support and coaching! Provided at no additional cost. Emial: mechezarreta yahoo. They breed German Shepherds and provide a stud service, drawing on the best genetics acquired from Germany to achieve their success. Their puppies come with a health guarantee, which makes them one of the few breeders who do so. If you decide to purchase a German Shepherd puppy from them, they can assist you with the full process of bringing your new pet into the country in order to make it as seamless as possible for you and your loved ones. A hereditary hip and elbow guarantee, current vaccinations and deworming, a microchip, and AKC registration papers are all included with every puppy purchased from Puppy Heaven. The puppies are available in two sizes: small and medium. According to their owners, a number of championships, including Best In Show, have been won by their Shepherds at both the regional and national levels. If you are looking for a reputable and reliable breeder of German Shepherds in Florida, then these 11 breeders should be at the top of your list. Each of them has a long history of breeding healthy, happy, and beautiful puppies that make excellent family pets or working dogs. We hope this list will help you decide which of these kennels are best for your family and pets. Do any of them sound like a good fit? What other factors do you think should be considered before making this decision? Remember, this is one of the most important decisions that you will make in your life, so take some time to research these breeders before contacting them. The German Shepherd makes a wonderful companion dog, as well as a guard dog if trained properly. The breed has been used in many roles throughout history, including therapy and search-and-rescue. If you have any questions about the breed or their temperament then feel free to contact your local German Shepherd rescue for more information on how this amazing dog can enrich your life. Are there any other Florida German shepherd breeders that should be on this list? Please let us know by leaving a comment below. I've been breeding German Shepherds of sound body and mind for over 30 years and specialize in providing families with loving companion dogs, and dogs for emotional support therapy, for veterans suffering PTSD, and for other special needs. I'm trying to share my extensive knowledge on breeding and training the perfect German Shepherd with the wider community. We offer lifetime guarantees on health and temperament. Our bloodlines started out of the top 2 bloodlines in the world, Vom Arlett and Bad-Boll. As I continue this blog I will help you learn how to assure you are picking a healthy and happy pup for your next family companion. Recent Posts. These puppies have been raised indoors and around other dogs since birth. We expect these puppies to have nice deep pigments, solid nerves, nice bone structure and all in all an excellent quality dog from top pedigrees from Germany, Czech Republic, and Slovakia. Dad is a 95 pound Sable Male with good hips and elbows along with solid nerves and a great disposition. Mom is 84 pounds with an extremely nice blocky build. She too has good hips and elbows. Mom is more of a fun loving free spirited dog. We own a 50 acre kennel in Daytona Beach, Florida. Our goal is to improve the breed through selective, quality breeding. All Imported sires and dams used for breeding have Europes highest hip ratings A Stamp. Importing German Shepherds of this quality is not easy nor is it inexpensive. Unlike most American breed Shepherds, our German Shepherd adults and puppies have great temperaments and strong nerves. Our breeding stock is here on site and impressive to say the least. You may make an appointment to visit our kennel at anytime. If you are interested in purchasing a pup in the near future, keep in mind that many times the pups are sold before the litter arrives so you may have to be on a waiting list. We take great care in the placement of our animals. The ideal home for a German Shepherd will include a yard or kennel run with plenty of daily exercise. Hope you enjoy the pictures on our site! Receive updates on new litters, get PupPact Assistance from Mike, communicate with other Shepherd's Meadow Parents and Staff or share information about your new pup. Merry Christmas!
January 20, Written by Sydney Heupel Poodles are one of the most beloved dog breeds out there, with their adorable curly fur and friendly personalities. But how much does it cost to take home a poodle? From purebred puppies to adult rescue pooches, the price of poodles can vary widely depending on breeders, age and other factors. Read on to find out all you need to know about poodle prices! The cost of a Poodle can vary greatly depending on the size, pedigree and breeder. Average Poodle Cost The average cost of a Poodle will depend on various factors such as the type of Poodle, its age and size. Prices may vary based on geographic location and quality of breeding for each individual pooch. It is important to also factor in additional costs when considering purchasing a poodle puppy. Factors Affecting Poodle Price When considering the price of a poodle, there are several factors that come into play. The most significant factor is the size and type of poodle you choose. Standard and miniature poodles cost more than toy or teacup varieties. The other major factor in setting the cost of a poodle is where it was bred and raised. Cost of Teacup, Toy, and Standard Sized Poodles The cost of poodles can vary greatly depending on their size and type. Teacup or toy poodles are particularly small, often weighing less than 4 pounds, while standard-sized poodles generally weigh between pounds. This difference in size results in a significant price discrepancy between the two types of dogs. It is important to note that aside from the purchase price itself, there will also be ongoing costs associated with owning any kind of pet such as food, veterinarian visits, grooming supplies — these are all things you should consider when budgeting how much it will cost to own an adorable puppy! Adoption vs Buying a Puppy Poodle Adoption vs Buying a Puppy Poodle is an important debate when it comes to choosing the right pet for your family. Adopting a poodle can be less expensive than buying one, but there are pros and cons to both options. Adoption is often the most cost-effective way of getting a poodle as many shelters have fixed fees or even waived adoption fees during special events. On the other hand, purchasing a puppy from a breeder means you will know exactly what type of parentage your pup has and its specific breed characteristics — this can be especially beneficial if you plan on entering your pup into shows or competitions later down the line. Some breeders also provide guarantees regarding the health of their puppies so you can rest assured knowing that if any issues arise within certain timelines then replacements might be available too. Show quality poodles require significant investment in both time and money. In addition to this initial fee, other costs should be taken into consideration including health testing fees for breeding stock such as eye exams and vet checkups prior to making any purchase decisions. Additionally, training classes may also be needed if you plan on showing your dog — often these classes are structured over an extended period of time which can add up quickly in terms of both cost and commitment. Investing in a show quality poodle is not something that should be taken lightly — with proper research and due diligence however it can be incredibly rewarding! After you initially purchase the pup, ongoing expenses are necessary to keep the dog healthy and happy throughout its life. Veterinary care is an essential cost for any pet owner and should not be overlooked when considering owning a poodle. Routine checkups, immunizations, parasite prevention treatments, medications and other veterinary services will need to be purchased from time to time in order to keep your pup safe and healthy. Food is another major expense when it comes to owning a poodle. Quality food should be provided in order for them to have proper nutrition throughout their life. Grooming costs must also be factored into the overall price of ownership as well since regular brushing, bathing and trimming of nails is required for this breed in particular due its long locks of fur which tend to tangle easily if not treated properly on occasion. .Professional grooming services might come with some additional fees but they offer convenience since all tasks are usually completed during one appointment instead of having multiple visits per session like what would happen doing it yourself or hiring someone privately on an hourly basis outside of these shops specialized in caring for these furry pals specifically. Before taking the plunge, one of my main concerns was the cost. So, after doing some research, I came up with several ways that I could save money on the cost of a poodle. The first thing I did was look into adoption centers in my area. Plus, adopting an animal not only helps you save money but also saves lives! Next, I talked to friends and family who already owned poodles or similar breeds. They were able to provide me with valuable advice on things like food type, veterinary care tips and even grooming requirements — all without costing me anything extra! Finally and perhaps most importantly , before making any big purchases for my new pup food bowls or toys… , I shopped around online for discounts or sales. This way, instead of paying full price at the pet store down the street, I saved quite a bit by looking around different stores and websites until finding just what we needed at an unbeatable deal. In conclusion, there are lots of easy ways to save money on the cost of owning a poodle if you know where to look and who to talk too. By following these simple steps myself and researching beforehand ,I found that not only did having one fit within our budget but ultimately enabled us both more quality time together as well! Related posts:. By Chris The striking Poodle needs no introduction. Even people unfamiliar with dog breeds can easily identify one. But aside from their striking good looks, Poodles have many desirable traits, like their loyalty, intelligence, and hypoallergenic coat. The typical cost of a purebred Poodle ranges from USD. Smaller Toy and Mini Poodles typically cost towards the higher range. Papered show Poodles or genetically strong breeding dogs can fetch far higher prices. A Tan Poodle sitting on an outdoor lounge. How Much Are Poodles? First things first: Poodles are expensive dogs. The reason? Poodles cost a lot to breed and maintain. A reputable breeder puts a lot of blood, sweat, and tears—and money—to ensure that their dogs are healthy and well-maintained. Where you get your Poodle also affects how much you pay for it. There are three types, which differ based on size: Standard: the largest of the three types Miniature: a medium-size Poodle Toy: the smallest of the three types A guilty looking two color Poodle Reputable Poodle Breeder Anyone who wants a purebred Poodle should find a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder is someone with a specific breeding business whose job is to produce the best dogs. As I mentioned above, the cost varies depending on the Poodle type you choose. Accidental Breeder An accidental breeder is exactly what it sounds like—someone who is not in the business of breeding but has a pregnant dog. In most cases, people who run puppy mills do not prioritize the health and safety of their pups. They have lots of dogs, usually more than they can take care of, to make the greatest profit possible. Getting a dog from a puppy mill is risky; you may get a dog with long-term health problems, a shorter life span, or genetic issues. So how do you avoid puppy mills? Online forums are an excellent place to look, especially ones specific to your area. Be sure to also check out breeder reviews. Rescue Finally, you have rescue shelters, which are excellent places to obtain a Poodle for cheap. The big downside in going this route is that finding the dog you want is a matter of luck. The main advantage of shelter dogs is the price. Additionally, most of the time, the shelter ensures that the dog already has all its shots before it goes home with you, saving you some of the healthcare costs. However, if knowing that is not important to you, you can find a fantastic dog for cheap. In addition to the initial fee to take the dog home, you should be aware of the other many Poodle costs. Some are one-time, while others are recurring. You already know that you have to feed the dog throughout its life. Choosing between a Cockapoo vs Poodle can be tricky — they are both super cute, hypoallergenic , and can be non-shedding! Vaccinations Vaccinations are essential to keep dogs healthy. Some are free, while others are not. Health Care Just as you would take a child to the pediatrician for regular checkups, you should take your Poodle to the Vet for an six monthly visit. Your vet may also advise certain medications to keep your dog healthy, like deworming meds. A super cute Poodle sitting on its owners lap Training Training is critical to ensure that your dog is well-behaved. You may feel confident training your dog yourself, but most people choose to send their Poodles to puppy school. You can start Poodle training with potty training at home. There are milestones that Poodles should meet at different ages. Grooming All dogs need to be groomed to some degree to keep their fur and skin healthy. Poodles are no exception, but if you compare them to other breeds, their grooming requirements are much higher. Depending on your preferences, your dog should visit the groomer every month or two. While this breed makes a loving and intelligent family dog , the high cost of having a Poodle—both to purchase it and to maintain it—is not for everyone. Adopting a Poodle? My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. If you want to get a show dog from champion bloodlines, expect to spend more. Purchasing the purebred Miniature or Toy type of Poodle is pricier than buying other dog breeds from a backyard dog breeder. The Standard Poodles are typically less expensive than Toy Poodles since they deliver more purebred puppies per litter. The price of a Standard Poodle, as well as Miniature and Toy Poodles, does not often change between male and female dogs, but larger dogs are associated with a higher maintenance cost compared to smaller Poodles. A premium price tag also usually means you have a high-quality Poodle puppy from purebred breeders which could save you a lot of money in the long run. Female Poodle: Which Is Better? Factors Affecting the Cost of a Poodle Puppy Many people find Poodles expensive, but what is it about Poodles that makes them so costly? Well, there are many reasons why these fluffy dogs cost thousands of dollars. The size, age, health, lineage, and AKC registration of a Poodle puppy are essential considerations when determining puppy prices. Here are other factors affecting the price of a purebred Poodle: Age: Younger purebred Poodle puppies are far more costly than older puppies on average. This is due to the high demand for young pups. Meanwhile, purchasing an adult Poodle could save you at the very least a few hundred dollars. Appearance: Purebred Poodles that sport rare Poodles coats color are priced higher than others. Purebred Poodle breeders dedicate years to learning how to breed high-quality puppies. Those that gained recognition for their hard work often put higher price tags on their Poodles than others. Bloodline: Since they are bred for exhibition, champion Poodles will be the priciest. These are the canines that compete in athletics and breed representation. Health Screenings: Purebred Poodles are at risk of health issues, such as seizures. This means Poodle breeders must take measures to ensure the health of their pups. As a result, they will have to invest additional money to nurture proper Poodle health. Registration Papers: Your Poodle must have the required registration papers to be registered with a kennel club. This list contains the significant factors that influence the price of a Poodle. When purchasing a Standard Poodle puppy, keep them in mind and any additional fees that may be associated with it. A purebred backyard breeder might ask you for things like reservation charges, pet delivery, vaccines, and pup accessories that are not included in the Standard Poodle price range. Poodle costs of adoption will vary depending on where you get your dog. If you choose a senior or special needs adult Standard Poodle, the fee is significantly reduced or even free entirely in these cases. Poodle puppies can be found in abundance in local shelters. If you decide to adopt a Poodle, you can be assured that you will get a dog that has been well-cared for, unlike the ones found in a puppy mill. Here is the list of the essential things that people who love Poodles must prepare for: Food and Treats: Poodles can be picky eaters. Hence, it is important to invest in the right kind of high-quality food upfront. Poodles will need a diet high in fats and proteins. Bed: Because the Poodles are active dogs, it will require a nice bed. The size of your Poodle will determine which mattress is appropriate. Crate: A crate is a must-have for required vet visits or crate-training your Poodle properly. This is a must-have item for Poodles that enjoy running and playing. Toys: Teething is unavoidable for young pups, and restlessness can lead to destructive behavior. These toys are a great approach to alleviating these concerns while keeping your dog happy. A slick brush to clear unkempt hair and knots, a metallic greyhound comb to remove tangles and separate hair strands, a blow dryer, grooming clippers, nail clippers, and a toothbrush to maintain proper oral hygiene are all you need. Furthermore, deworming is a crucial step in keeping healthy pups. Initial Vaccine Shots: If you opt to purchase an unvaccinated Poodle puppy, you will be responsible for the expense of their first round of vaccinations. This is also another way of keeping your Poodle healthy. Neutering and Spaying: If you purchase Standard Poodle puppies, most likely, it is still intact. It is suggested that the puppy be spayed or neutered between six and nine months. Microchip: A microchip, about the size of a rice grain, should be implanted on your Poodle. This can be scanned by vets or other canine specialists for your contact info, health records, and health problems. Miscellaneous Supplies: Useful goods such as poop scoopers, cleaning materials, and urine pads could make Poodle care much more manageable. Other sources of entertainment for your dog may include activities, such as agility. You can also purchase items to create brain games for your dog, like puzzles and Kong toys. Different diets, toys, supplies, and groomers all can vary significantly in cost. Additional Costs to Factor In Other costs you should be prepared for include pet sitters, trainers, and emergency expenses. Trainers usually charge by the session, but some offer packages to help limit expense. Setting money aside every month for any emergency or unexpected expenses will help you be prepared if anything comes up. You can also rotate through toys and supplies to keep things interesting and prevent items from wearing out quickly. Even on a budget, you should plan for the monthly expenses associated with food and medical care. These are expenses that cannot be skipped, regardless of budget. Coming up with creative ways to budget and stretch the use of items longer can go a long way in helping you to save money. Image Credit: susanne, Pixabay Saving Money on Poodle Care You can save money on a professional groomer if you take time to brush your dog well every day to ensure they are not getting mats and to monitor their skin health. You can also save money on grooming expenses if you are comfortable shaving or grooming your Poodle yourself. Another great way to save money on the care and maintenance of your Poodle is to watch online and brick-and-mortar shops for sales and coupons. These can be used to save a significant amount on foods, toys, treats, cleaning supplies, grooming supplies, and more. Conclusion: Poodle Price Owning a Poodle can be attainable, regardless of your budget. Poodles of all sizes and types are fantastic dogs with fun personalities. They are not low-maintenance dogs, though. This means you may experience higher costs associated with grooming and basic care than you would with a lower-maintenance dog. Set aside money every month as a backup option in case unexpected expenses arise or you find yourself in an emergency situation. Rescue Generally, adoption fees will always cost less than buying a dog from a breeder. If you prefer not to spend a lot of money upfront, getting a Poodle from a Poodle rescue organization might appeal to you. A small adoption fee means you can put that money towards initial veterinary care. Ready to Adopt Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! Buying a dog from a breeder may help you prepare for potential health issues. Dogs that come from breeders also tend to have a more predictable temperament. The Up-Front Costs of a New Poodle Aside from emergencies, the initial costs of bringing a new poodle into your home will always be the highest. The first expense will be the price of your new puppy or dog. The price of a puppy can vary greatly depending on where you get your new Poodle and what kind of Poodle you get. The typical route of getting a Poodle is to buy a puppy from a reputable breeder. Because of the rich history of Poodles, breeders have taken care to manage bloodlines and ensure that quality animals come from each generation. When you buy from a good breeder, you usually receive certifications and health histories for your animal. Your single Standard Poodle puppy costs less than a Miniature or Toy Poodle partly because they produce more puppies per year. Additionally, larger breeds are in less demand than small and Toy breeds. As a more affordable and convenient breed in the long term, some would rather pay more upfront. The popularity of Miniature Poodles makes for a higher price. Toy Poodles These little cuties come in as the most expensive type of Poodle. Irresistible in appearance and unmatched in temperament, Toy Poodles are the most desired of Poodle breeds. Their small size comes with careful, specific breeding to reduce disease and enhance desirable traits. There are several benefits to having such a tiny dog, from the cost of food to ease of travel. Finally, Toy Poodles have a lower yearly birth rate than their larger Poodle counterparts. Therefore, each puppy is all the more precious for this reason. A brown Poodle actually enjoying a Vet visit Initial Veterinary Costs of Getting a Poodle Veterinary costs will vary depending on the age of your new Poodle and whether you get it from a breeder versus a rescue organization. However, any dog can encounter health issues at any time in its life. Although these veterinary costs are estimates for healthy animals, emergencies can run in the tens of thousands. Is Puppy Care More Expensive? Puppies cost more than an already grown Poodle. Puppies also need vaccinations in their first year that can add up but are a critical part of care. Young Veterinarian doctor listens to the heart beat of a happy gray Poodle Pet Insurance and Preventative Care An additional medical cost to consider is insurance to protect yourself financially. Some pet insurance companies also cover routine veterinary care. Too often have I heard of unprepared people getting slammed with a massive veterinary bill. On top of the stress of an emergency vet visit, a cost can cause even more anxiety. Less - The Standard Poodle is a medium-sized , squarely built dog with a distinctive harsh curly coat that may be presented in any of several traditional Poodle clips or corded. The ears are long, drop, and densely feathered. The tail is normally docked, set high, and carried erect. The length of body sternum to point of buttocks is equal to the height withers to ground. The Standard Poodle carries himself with an air of dignity and pride. Another essential characteristic is proper temperament. The breed is noted for its high intelligence, trainability and sense of humor. Poodles are highly social and require human companionship and regular, close interaction with family members. Because of their great intelligence and the joy they take in human companionship, Poodles excel in performance events of all sorts. They are extremely affectionate with children. In 18th and 19th century Europe, the Poodle served a wide variety of purposes, including duck hunting, guiding, and later circus performing, from whence the modern grooming style likely arose. The Poodle became a popular pet for the French aristocracy, and in time was officially adopted as the national dog. Poodles were imported to America in the 20th century. The origins of the poodles are still discussed with a dispute over whether the poodle descends from the old French Barbet breed or from Germany as a type of water dog.
Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Belgian Malinois Overview The Belgian Malinois is a medium-sized dog that at first glance resembles a German Shepherd. Malinois are short-haired, fawn-colored dogs with black masks. They are one of four types of Belgian herding dogs, and have been shown in the U. Originally developed in Malines, Belgium, Malinois have a great deal of stamina and truly enjoy working. They are intelligent and very active dogs that excel at many tasks. In addition to herding, they also do well with police work, search and rescue, and performance events, such as agility. People who are not familiar with the Malinois often confuse them with the German Shepherds, but there are significant differences in the body structure and temperament of the two breeds. Malinois are smaller dogs with lighter bones. Malinois are fawn-colored, red, or brown, and the tips of their hair are black, while the German Shepherd is usually tan with a black saddle. Additionally, the Malinois has a more refined, chiseled head than the German Shepherd and smaller, more triangular ears. Many think that the Malinois is more alert and quicker to respond than the German Shepherd. Some Malinois are friendly and assertive, but others are reserved and aloof with strangers. They should never have a fearful or aggressive temperament. Because of their energy level and sensitivity, Malinois are recommended only for people who have previously parented dogs and are skilled in dog training. Malinois are very intense dogs who like to be included in all of the family activities. If you have decided that the Malinois is the breed for you, you should expose your dog to many different people, dogs, other animals, and situations as early as possible. Puppy kindergarten classes are recommended for your Malinois puppy, followed by obedience training. Malinois are quick learners and eager to do whatever their people ask of them. They excel are obedience, tracking, agility, flyball, herding, showing, Schutzhund, and other protection sports. But a Malinois parent should never forget that this is a breed developed to protect and herd. Poorly socialized dogs may behave aggressively out of fear or shyness. Additionally, although well-socialized Malinois are good with children, especially if they are raised with them, they may have a tendency to nip at their heels and try to herd them when playing. Belgian Malinois Highlights Belgian Malinois have a great deal of energy and need a lot of exercise. Make sure you have the room and time to provide it. Malinois are very intelligent and alert. They also have strong herding and protection instincts. Early, consistent training is critical! They are very people-oriented and want to be included in family activities. Malinois are constant shedders. They shed heavily twice a year. Belgian Malinois are intense dogs who are play-oriented and sensitive. Training should be fun, consistent, and positive. Because of their intelligence, high energy, and other characteristics, Malinois are not recommended for inexperienced dog parents. The four varieties are the Malinois fawn-mahogany, short coat with black mask , the Tervuren fawn-mahogany, long coat with black mask , the Laekenois fawn, rough coat , and the Groenendael black, long coat. The Club du Chien de Berger Belge Belgian Shepherd Dog Club was formed in September to determine which of the many different types of dogs was representative only of the shepherd dogs developed in Belgium. In November of that same year, breeders and fanciers met on the outskirts of Brussels to examine shepherd dogs from that area. After much deliberation, veterinary professor Adolphe Reul and a panel of judges concluded that the native shepherd dog of that province were square, medium-sized dogs with well-set triangular ears and very dark brown eyes and differed only in the texture, color, and length of hair. Subsequent examinations of dogs in other Belgian provinces resulted in similar findings. In , Professor Reul wrote the first Belgian Shepherd Dog standard, which recognized three varieties: dogs with long coats, dogs with short coats, and dogs with rough coats. By , however, the Belgian Shepherd Dog was finally recognized as a breed. In , he purchased a pale, fawn rough-haired dog called Vos I, or Vos de Laeken from a cattle dealer in northern Belgium. After that mating, Vos I was bred to his daughters, establishing a line of very homogeneous dogs with grey rough hairs and short hairs, and fawn rough hairs and short hairs. Breeders decided to give each of the different varieties of Belgian Shepherd Dogs their own names. The city of Malines had formed a club for the promotion of fawn short-haired Belgian Shepherd dog in .The first dressage trial, held on July 12, , in Malines, was won by M. Belgian Shepherds were also used as guard dogs and draught dogs. They were the first dogs to be used by the Belgian police. Before World War II, international police dog trials became very popular in Europe, and Belgian dogs earned a number of prizes at the trials. When World War I broke out, many Belgian Shepherd Dogs were used by the military for a number of jobs including messenger dogs, Red Cross dogs, ambulance cart dogs, and, according to some, light machine-gun cart dogs. During the s and s, several outstanding Malinois kennels were started in Belgium. During the first decades of the 20th century, Malinois and Groenendael were the most popular varieties of Belgian Shepherd dogs to be exported to other countries. He sold the two Malinois to L. De Winter of Guttenberg, New Jersey. De Winter produced several litters from the Malinois under his Winterview kennel name. He also bred Malinois for a short time under the name of Castlehead Kennel. By the end of the s, the Groenendael and Malinois Belgian Sheepdogs had risen in popularity to rank among the top five breeds. During the s, a few Malinois were registered with the AKC as imports trickled into the country. In that same year, John Cowley imported two Malinois and began his Netherlair kennel. He showed several of his dogs and several people became interested in them. By the s, more people were breeding and showing Malinois. In the last decade, Belgian Malinois dogs have received a lot of attention for their work in the military, drug detection agencies, search and rescue operations, and police forces around the country. As a result, many Malinois have been imported to the U. The mission was a success, and Conan was honored as a hero at The White House after making a full recovery. Belgian Malinois Size Males are 24 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 60 to 80 pounds. Females are 22 to 24 inches tall and weigh 40 to 60 pounds. Belgian Malinois Personality Belgian Malinois puppies are often curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. This is an outstanding working dog who is confident and protective in any situation. The watchdog abilities of the Malinois are excellent. They protect their people and property with only as much force as is required. Shyness and aggression are rare in this breed. Socialization helps ensure that your Malinois puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly and taking your pup to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Hip dysplasia is hereditary, but it can also be triggered by environmental factors, such as rapid growth from a high-calorie diet or injuries incurred from jumping or falling on slick floors. This is a degenerative eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. PRA is detectable years before the dog shows any signs of blindness. Fortunately, dogs can use their other senses to compensate for blindness, and a blind dog can live a full and happy life. Elbow Dysplasia. This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Anesthesia Sensitivity. Belgian Malinois are very sensitive to anesthesia. They have a higher-than-average rate of death when put under anesthesia because of their muscle-to-fat ratio. Be sure your vet understands this sensitivity before allowing your Malinois to have surgery or even have their teeth cleaned. Belgian Malinois Care Belgian Malinois can do well in small quarters if they receive enough exercise. They prefer cool climates but adapt well to warmer environments. They should always be included as part of the family and live indoors. If possible, provide your Malinois with some off-leash exercise in a fenced area in addition to long walks or jogging. If you like to hike or jog, your Belgian Malinois will be happy to be by your side. Consider training your dog to compete in obedience or agility. Puppies have different exercise needs. From 9 weeks to 4 months of age, puppy kindergarten once or twice a week is a great way for them to get exercise, training, and socialization, plus 15 to 20 minutes of playtime in the yard, morning and evening. Throw a ball for them to fetch. From 4 to 6 months of age, weekly obedience classes, daily half-mile walks, and playtime in the yard will meet their needs. From 6 months to 1 year of age, play fetch with a ball or Frisbee for up to 40 minutes during cool mornings or evenings, not in the heat of the day. Continue to limit walks to a half mile. Avoid hard surfaces such as asphalt and concrete. As they continue to mature, you can increase the distance and time you run. These graduated levels of exercise will protect their developing bones and joints. Malinois are sensitive and highly trainable. Be firm, calm, and consistent with them. Anger and physical force are counterproductive. Belgian Malinois Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. The quality of dog food you buy also makes a difference. The better the dog food, the further it will go toward nourishing your dog. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. The hard topcoat and dense undercoat provide weather resistance for a dog who was bred to work outdoors in all conditions. The hair is slightly longer around the neck, forming a sort of mini-mane. The coat is typically fawn- to mahogany-colored with a black mask on the face, black ears, and black tips on the hairs. Fawn-colored Malinois sometimes have a tiny bit of white on the tips of their toes or a small white spot on the chest. The short, smooth coat of the Malinois is easy to groom. Brush it weekly with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. Malinois shed year-round, more heavily in the spring and fall. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Handle their paws frequently dogs are touchy about their feet and look inside their mouth and ears. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Belgian Malinois Children And Other Pets Well-socialized Malinois are good with children, especially if they are raised with them, but because of their herding heritage, they may have a tendency to nip at their heels and try to herd them when playing. You must teach your Malinois that this behavior is unacceptable. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs , and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. If you want your Malinois to get along with other animals you must start early and reward them for appropriate behavior. Belgian Malinois Rescue Groups Belgian Malinois are often adopted without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Malinois in need of adoption and or fostering. Belgian Malinois Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Pros and cons of getting a Belgian Malinois mixed with Lab A Labrador Malinois mix dog weighs 40 — 80lbs, and is likely to be capable of remarkable physical and mental endurance. They need a lot of physical and mental activity before they are ready to settle down at the end of the day. Potential owners need to think carefully about whether this dog is a good fit for them. Purpose: Companionship, some competitive and working roles. Weight: Females 40 — 70lbs, males 60 — 80lbs. Temperament: Smart, tough, hardworking. What to expect from a Labrador Malinois mix Labs and Belgian Malinois are both dogs with impeccable working credentials, but in very different roles. Labradors are, of course, retrievers. In the past they helped duck hunters by collecting the birds which had been shot. The Belgian Malinois meanwhile started out as a shepherding breed. More recently, the same intelligence, stamina, and guarding instincts which made them good at shepherding have also made them popular with police and military dog trainers. A Labrador Belgian Malinois mix is sometimes known as a Belgiador. This mix is not as popular or widely available as some of the Labrador crosses more suitable to being a family pet. Such as the world-famous Labradoodle. This is partly because the different historical purpose of Labs vs Malinois mean they have very different temperaments. Labrador Malinois mix appearance Physically, it is easy to tell a Lab and a Malinois apart. But, they also have enough in common that a Malinois Lab mix is fairly unsurprising to look at compared to, say, a Shih Tzu Lab mix! Both breeds are medium to large. So a female Malinois Lab mix is likely to weigh 40 to 70lbs, and a male is likely to weigh 60 to 80lbs. Their exact size, build and proportions can vary from one individual to the next, depending on: The exact size of their parents. Whether their Labrador parent came from working or show lines. And whether they take after their Lab parent or their Malinois parent more. Both breeds have short smooth coats, which protect them from the cold whilst working in winter. But the Malinois can be registered in four times as many colors as the Lab. Including dilute colors, brindle, and sable patterns. Malinois and black Lab mix puppies could surprise you with a range of coat colors, including sables. Dilute and brindle coats will only be expressed in first generation Malinois Lab mix puppies if the Labrador parent was also carrying the gene for one of these traits. But the temperament they will grow up to have is a different matter! Malinois are a herding breed. They have a strong guarding instinct, which is what makes them well suited to protecting a flock of sheep. Part of the guarding instinct is an innate wariness of new and unfamiliar people. Another part is unhesitating bravery in defending the thing they guard. They are also very clever, and they can pick up complex commands quickly. Labradors meanwhile have a strong urge to fetch things and carry items around in their mouths — the retrieving instinct. They are also very clever, and capable of mastering complex tasks. But, they have little guarding instinct. They often bond happily with lots of people, including people they met for the first time 5 seconds ago. Belgian Malinois Labrador mix puppies are likely to be easy to train, and pick up new commands quickly. They will crave having a job to do, alongside a human handler. This may manifest as unwanted behaviors including digging, chewing, scratching or barking. This mix will not be suited to spending most of the day alone at home. Surprises in Malinois Lab mix personality However, not all aspects of their personality are so predictable. Belgian Malinois tend to be disinterested in interacting with people beyond their immediate human family. When faced with persistent unwanted attention, they might bark or snap to send a clear signal to back off. This is very different to most Labradors, who tend to befriend just about anyone, and are tolerant of being petted by strangers. How sociable and people-friendly a litter of Belgian Malinois Labrador mix puppies will grow up to be can vary a lot, even between siblings. So, if being sociable and comfortable receiving attention from people beyond your immediate family is important to you, this mix is not a reliably good choice. Training and exercising your Labrador Malinois mix Next, back to something you can be sure of — your Labrador Belgian Malinois mix will need training and physical activity in spades. Ongoing training is vital to meet their need for mental stimulation. Besides basic obedience training as a puppy, you can challenge their brains by taking part in Advanced obedience training. They enjoy socializing with other humans and dogs and bonding with their entire family. Their high levels of energy and need for exercise also make them highly energetic. Good-natured and hard-working, labs have a reputation for being loyal and honest. In addition to being hunters, assistance dogs, show dogs, search and rescue dogs, and other types of dog work, they are often used as assistance dogs. Although they love to work and are highly trainable, these dogs also enjoy some fun! Exercising must be intense. Playing fetch, jogging, and other activities can be included in this. Aside from competing in dog sports, they also perform well in agility competitions. Their mental fitness is also maintained through training sessions. A Lab is a sweet-natured dog, making it a perfect companion dog or therapy dog. It is possible to train them to assist people with disabilities since they are intelligent and can be trained. The labrador retriever is a very protective breed, especially when it comes to his family and home. Intense exercise is also needed. Jogging, fetching, and other exercises can be included. Several other dog sports, such as agility, they do well in as well. A lab can be a great companion or therapy dog because of its sweet nature. It is possible to train them to assist disabled people because they are intelligent. Besides being great watchdogs, they also make great companions. There is a strong sense of loyalty and protection in labs when it comes to their family and their homes. Appearance Labradors and Malinois can be distinguished physically from one another. But, they both sit somewhere between medium and large, so a mix of Malinois and Labs would appear more unsurprising than, say, a mix with a smaller breed. A female lab weighs around 55 and 70 pounds, while a male lab weighs between 65 and 80 pounds. An average Malinois Lab mix female weighs 40 to 70 pounds, while an average male weighs 60 to 80 pounds. The coats of both breeds are short and smooth, which keeps them warm during winter. Although the Malinois has four times more colors to choose from than the Labrador. The patterns include dilute colors, brindles, and sables. There is a wide color variety available in black Lab mix and Malinois puppies, including sables. It is only when the parent dog was a Labrador that diluted and brindled coats were expressed in the pups of the first generation of a Labrador Malinois-Labrador mix. Due to the rarity of that situation, they usually emerge only in crosses that are of 2nd and higher generations. Temperament The temperament of a mixed-breed dog cannot be predicted in advance since it can inherit personality traits from either parent. There are a variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and personalities in every breed. Generally speaking, a Boxer and Labrador Retriever mix will display puppy-like behaviors well into her 5th year of life. They are likely to be very energetic and prefer being active over sitting on the couch! Herding is the primary function of Malinois dogs. Additionally, guarding sheep is something they do well because of their strong guarding instinct. The inherent wariness of unfamiliar people is part of the guarding instinct. Additionally, they must not hesitate to defend what they protect without flinching. Their intelligence makes them very capable of learning complicated commands very quickly. The retrieving instinct is extremely strong in Lab Retrievers while retrieving is common in other breeds. Their intelligence and ability to master complex tasks make them very desirable. They do not have much of a guarding instinct, however. There is often a happy bond between the two of them, even if they met each other only just a few seconds ago. Puppies born from mixed Belgian Malinois and Labrador parents usually learn commands quickly, and improve their training over time. With someone by their side, they are more likely to enjoy working. In addition, if you do not give them anything to do, they are likely to lose interest very quickly. There are numerous undesirable behaviors that can manifest during this time, for instance, pawing, biting, scratching, barking, etc. If the dog has to spend all of its time at home by itself, you may want to consider a different breed or hybrid. The personality of these individuals is not predictable in all aspects. The Belgian Malinois is generally uninterested in socializing with other people outside of their immediate family. Their snapping or barking signals clearly that they want to be left alone when they are being bothered by a constant stream of unwanted attention. Unlike Labradors in general, which accept strangers petting them, these dogs tend to befriend everyone. It is possible to find vast differences in social skills and people-friendliness between siblings of Belgian Malinois Labrador mixes. At 8 weeks of age, their behavior is not a good indicator of their future temperament. Consequently, if your social skills and comfort with receiving attention are crucial, then this combination is not for you. The hip dysplasia of both breeds of dogs is a common health problem. The socket of the hip becomes malformed in this painful condition. A number of problems can be caused by it, including gait problems and arthritis. Both breeds may suffer from this genetic problem. Due to the strong hereditary component of dysplasia of the hips and elbows, the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals suggests that dogs who do not test positive be kept as breeding stock. A breeding dog should also undergo testing for eye problems, as well as exercise-induced collapse. Performing hip and elbow dysplasia tests, as well as checking for eye problems, should be required before breeding Malinois dogs. When the stomach turns inside out and is sealed, it is considered a medical emergency. The symptoms of this disease can be found here, and affected dogs can only be saved by surgery When buying a Malinois and Labrador mix dog, make sure the breeder uses healthy parents in their breeding so that you avoid a lifetime of heartache and costly veterinary bills. It will make a difference who they take after when it comes to their health risks. You should be aware of symptoms of ear infections if your dog has floppy ears like a Lab. In addition, you will need to keep them from getting bloated if they have a deep chest like a Malinois. A survey conducted among dog owners found that Belgian Malinois and Labrador Retrievers live, on average, 12 to 13 years, and some even live well into their teens. As a comparison, this is a good size for a dog of this size. Fall and spring are also times when both shed a lot. It is definitely a good idea to brush your mixed fur baby at least once a week, but more frequently during seasons of high shedding. The frequency of his dirty and stinky behavior will determine how often your Malinois Lab requires bathing. The frequency of baths may vary from dog to dog, with some dogs requiring a bath once a week to once a month. As Labradors and Malinois have weather-resistant coats, routine bathing should not be necessary for the Labrador Malinois Mix. When you have a Labrador Malinois Mix puppy, keep in mind that the Malinois has a thicker coat and sheds more than the Labrador. Therefore, you will need to brush and groom your puppy more frequently. Training You should expect your Lab Malinois mix to be extremely energetic since you have crossed two highly energetic breeds. Please remember that each of these breeds was designed to work outdoors all day long. It is possible that some Labrador Belgian Malinois mix dogs are more prone to lazing around than others. It is important that the Labrador parent of the puppies should come from breeding lines, especially if the Labrador was a show dog. Generally, these mixes are suitable only for individuals with at least a few hours per day that they can devote to working with their dogs and making sure it has proper training and the right amount of exercise. To keep your mixed Lab Malinois happy and healthy, they will definitely need training and socialization. Keep in mind that you should always supervise your mixed breed dog around young children and other animals. The Malinois, as well as some Labs, have strong prey instincts. The training and socialization of this mix should be done positively. Your Lab Malinois and you will have a great time doing this! You will be able to tire your dog out every day by doing complex training exercises. However, you will still need to exercise your dog regularly. Outdoor activity is likely to be needed by this mix at least twice a day. In the past three decades, the retriever has become the most popular dog breed in America. Due to their adaptability to different situations and friendly and patient nature, they are well suited to families with adults, children, and dogs who are unfamiliar with them. Unlike Labrador Retrievers, a Belgian Malinois is a breed that specializes in working dogs. They are unmatched in terms of their performance, endurance, and fearlessness when serving in the police and military. Most pet owners cannot provide the engagement, training, and exercise that a companion dog needs most people. Barking or nipping may also be issued to children if they lose patience with them. Those who are new to owning a dog, those with many other responsibilities, and families with children may not be appropriate for this mix. It is recommended that they be owned by very active people, with plenty of time to dedicate to their care, and with experience with similar breeds. A Belgian Malinois Lab mix is an incredibly beautiful and fascinating dog, regardless of how you feel about mixed breeds and whether you consider them mutts or ethical. It must be said that, on balance, designer dogs can be healthier than many purebred dogs, even though there may be some question marks about the topic. It is recommended that prospective owners prepare for adequate socialization and training before getting a Labrador Malinois Mix as a family pet. His best home would be in a family with older children, and he would benefit from the patience and training of an owner. Be prepared to spend a lot of time with your dog making sure it fits into the family well and adjusts properly. The more time you spend with it and the more training and socialization you provide your mix, the more likely it will become a great family pet. In order to reduce the chances of obesity-related health problems, he will need plenty of space and access to the outdoors. Prior to bringing a pet into your home and making it part of your family, you should research that breed and determine its needs and challenges. This will ensure your dog is happy, stays healthy, and fits into your family well. You will also like:. Introducing the Labrador Malinois Mix! The Labrador Malinois mix is the offspring of the purebred Labrador and the purebred Malinois. By all accounts, this crossbreed is a fusion of beauty, brawn, and intelligence! But what exactly is a crossbreed, and why is there controversy surrounding it? While there are many who support crossbreeding and argue that there are many pros to the practice, others disagree. Some experts consider designer dogs and mutts to be the same thing. Others argue that while mutts have a lineage of many different breeds, designer dogs are the offspring of only two purebred parent breeds. Health There are also those who state that crossbreeding can be a way to solve the genetic health issues that have plagued purebred dogs for generations as a result of over-breeding. Others claim that these genetic issues can be equally prevalent in crossbred dogs. Origin of the Labrador Malinois Mix Since crossbreeding is still a rather new practice, the exact origin of the Labrador Malinois Mix is unknown. Still, it is worth looking into the histories of the purebred parents. Both the Labrador and the Malinois have fascinating backstories that should help to give us some insight into their offspring, the Labrador Malinois mix. Today, the Labrador is known to make an excellent service dog for his human counterpart, guiding the blind or offering emotional and physical support to those in need. Officially recognized by the AKC in , the Malinois also excels on search and rescue missions and works with the armed forces. In fact, this breed is even used by the Secret Service to guard the White House! Temperament and Behavior of the Labrador Malinois Mix Because the Labrador Malinois Mix is a crossbreed, determining what temperament he could inherit from his purebred parents is going to be left up to chance. However, by researching the behavioral traits of the purebred Labrador and the purebred Malinois, we can gather an idea of what kind of temperament the Labrador Malinois mix could have. His intelligence and eagerness to please have made him easy to train and therefore pleasant and well-behaved. However, keep in mind that Labs can be inclined to chewing. They need lots of patience and attention, especially in their youth, to keep them from getting bored or anxious. Various toys should be utilized to reduce boredom and subsequent household damages during times when Labradors are left alone. They need consistent exercise to keep them mentally and physically happy and will enjoy fun family activities! Malinois Temperament The Malinois is a true working dog who requires jobs and consistent stimulation to avoid boredom. He is extremely intelligent and enjoys a challenge, but much like his Labrador counterpart, if he is left to his own devices and becomes bored then furniture, shoes, and flooring beware! This means the very thing that makes him an excellent police K9 or military dog could make him a difficult family pet. Although there are countless accounts of the Malinois making a wonderful family companion and doing very well with young children, it is best to supervise this breed around youngsters and other household pets. The Malinois is also known to mature slower than many other breeds and can have puppy-like tendencies all the way up until the age of about five. Potential owners of this breed or a crossbreed with a Malinois parent should prepare to exercise patience, as these dogs require consistent training and attention. Training and Socialization Of course, and as with all dog breeds, we recommend proper training and early socialization and to ensure the health and happiness of both dog and human. Always keep training positive and fun, and keep in mind that training and socializing is an excellent bonding opportunity for you and your Labrador Malinois mix! Defining Characteristics of the Labrador Malinois Mix As with temperament, the outcome in regard to physical characteristics in a crossbreed can be unpredictable. This means their coat, size, and weight will be left up to chance depending on which purebred parent he favors most. Still, by looking at the characteristics of the Labrador and the Malinois we may be able to get an idea of what your Labrador Malinois Cross puppy could look like. Labrador Characteristics The Lab is a medium-sized dog who has three standard coat colors: Black.
Exercise Grooming Looking at the life of a miniature poodle today, the jewelry, the bright-colored coats and the luxury they live in, one may be shocked that these pooches used to accompany hunters many years ago. They were developed in Germany but developed into their own distinct breed in the country of France. They were developed especially for waterfowl hunting. They are believed to be a hybrid of different water dogs from Europe. They are believed to be a result of crosses between Spanish, Russian, Hungarian, Portuguese, French and German water dogs. There are also different theories that link its ancestry to different parts of the world like Africa and Asia. One thing however clear is that the Miniature Poodle is a very old breed. There are illustrations of this breed on Egyptian and Roman artifacts and tombs. Many believe Miniature Poodles came hundreds of years later after the Standard Poodles. They are intelligent, loyal, loving and mischievous. Poodle enthusiasts describe them as having an air of distinction. Miniature Poodles have a daffy streak and love to play. They can however often get leery with strangers. They are shy and if not socialized with new people and animals at an early age, will grow up a little laid back. The Miniature Poodle is very protective of his family and is quick to bark whenever strangers approach your home. They are highly trainable and have high energy. Miniature Poodles require an environment of care and discipline. They can be raised in apartment homes because of their small stature. Early socialization is critical to their development. Without this, they will get scared easily and be aggressive at strangers. Take your Miniature Poodle for walks of about an hour. Play games of fetch with them, they love tasks that challenge them mentally. They were working dogs historically, so it is no wonder that they want something to occupy their bodies and minds. The Miniature Poodle is a safe choice for people with allergies. They are a non-shedding breed and they have been found to give allergic people no reaction at all. Their coat comes in several colors. Their colors include blue, black, white, gray, silver, brown, cream, etc. They are high maintenance dogs. Their beautiful coat can be trimmed, clipped, curled and generally manipulated into different lovely shapes. They require grooming every three to six weeks to keep their coat in good condition. They need to be bathed every three to six weeks. Poodles have weepy eyes and you will need to wipe the hair under their eyes often to get rid of this stain. Make sure you check their ear often to spot any developing infection for quick treatment. Our Miniature Poodle puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Miniature Poodle Puppies For Sale. My name is Seven! Only serious inquiries. She has all her shots, AKC registered, comes with numerous amount of toys, her cage, and carrier. Please contact xxx. Unfortunately we are no longer able to care for him. We bought him at 11 weeks and now he is 15 weeks. Up to date on vaccines. Vet checked x2 since we got him. Potty trained, sleeps in crate at night. Can have all the toys and 2 crates plus extra food and puppy pads. Please text xxx-xxx-xxxx, serious inquiries only. View Detail Buddy is looking for his forever home Buddy is 6 months old. He is affectionate and loves to snuggle on the couch but also very active and loves to play. He is very good with kids. He is very smart and learns quickly. His hair does not shed and hypoallergenic. He loves to play with toys especially balls. Loves to run outside as well. We are looking for a family or someone that has plenty of time to spend with him. She is sweet and is a good companion for people who are single and people with children. She gets along extremely well with children because she is very playful View Detail Miniature Poodle Puppy Looking for a new home for this little guy. The spotted litter will be ready June 27th, the apricot and white litter will be ready on July 10th. I am in Jacksonville, Ga. My name is Hendrixx, and I am 5 months old. I am a fun , loving , playful puppy who loves to cuddle. I am up to date on all my vaccines , just looking for the right home and a pawsome family! I am spending time getting ready to go home to my fur-ever family. I was adopted 2 weeks ago and circumstances cause me to have to look for a new home. I am playing with people here so I will be well-socialized and ready for any type of lifestyle that you may have. I am also getting tons of playtime and exercise. I sure hope you like to play! I have also been to the vet and he checked me from head to tail and has given me my vaccinations, to make sure that I am a happy and healthy puppy. Which can be purchased for longer. I'm a super-smart hypoallergenic and wonderful puppy. I have my bed, crate, food bowl, collard, dog leash, food container, food, toys, blanket, vitamins, skin and coat treatment, shampoo, etc. I hope that you call to bring me home soon because I have already started packing my bags! View Detail Ozzie miniature poodle This hypoallergenic little guy is a perfect addition to any home He will be up to date on all vaccinations and deworming. View Detail Toy Poodle for sale. AKC Registered. We have a 15 month old Toy Poodle that is only 5lbs. Incredible Dog. Where we are building our HOA does not allow pets. He is a Male and his name is Roscoe. Apricot color. Loves kids. Shots are current. Please call us at xxx-xxx-xxxx. Home-raised with our family. Vet checked and vaccinated. Loves children and other dogs. Serious inquires only xxx xxx-xxx4 View Detail Puppy for sale Chase is one year old miniature poodle born on December 10th! He is a very sweet lovable dog who loves to play, eat, and cuddle! Chase has been nothing but fun and a joy to our family and Is waiting to be one to yours as well!! He is 11lbs with white and tan fur. He loves to go on runs, go to the doggy park, fetch and sleep. Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Atlanta GA? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in Atlanta GA. Poodle prices in Atlanta and other cities in Georgia can vary from breeder to breeder. Factors that can affect the price include breeder experience and coat color. By searching through our network, we can match you with puppies that are close to your location and match your budget. Do your breeders arrange travel for Georgia Poodles out of state? Yes, they do! Our partner breeders and businesses are total pros and can arrange out-of-state travel for your new best bud. You can arrange to pick up your new puppy at a major airport near you. However, that may not be even necessary. The Uptown network is wide so the right Poodle for you could be right in your very city! How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Atlanta, Georgia? We receive hundreds of applications from prospective breeders and businesses every week. Vetted breeders take our legally-binding Breeder Pledge which helps uphold high standards for breeding animal care. You can find many Poodle puppies online but you will never be sure where they are born and bred. Puppy mills and backyard breeders take advantage of the internet to sell puppies that are in poor health. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Atlanta, Georgia? Ethical businesses take good care of their dogs and puppies. The opposite is true for puppy mills who churn out as many litters of puppies as they can at the lowest cost possible. The result are puppies that are either sick or have serious behavioral issues that are extremely tough or expensive to treat later on. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies in Atlanta, Georgia for sale now? Search for your new best friend on Uptown Puppies today. In no time, your family will be meeting its newest furry member. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Atlanta, Georgia? All kinds of poodles possess the impressive intelligence that they are well-known for. Because they are very smart, Poodles can be trained to participate in dog sports, entertainment, tracking and herding, and in other support roles. Can I trust you to find me healthy miniature Poodle puppies in Atlanta, Georgia? But we are different from other online marketplaces. Uptown only works with ethical breeders and businesses who truly care about dogs. Check out our Reviews page and meet the families who have found their newest family member through Uptown Puppies.
Peid Black and white Shedding The Victorian Bulldogs have very similar coats to their typical bulldog cousins. Their fur is thick, straight, and short. They shed an average amount during the year, although two times throughout the year they go through a heavy shedding phase. Although nothing can stop it all together, the proper brushing and grooming routine along with an omega fats rich diet can help. Grooming In order to best maintain a Victorian Bulldogs coat and comfort it is recommended that they get brushed twice weekly with a soft bristled brush. Full baths are only required about once a month or after they get dirty. To avoid dry and itchy skin it is important to not bath a Victorian Bulldog more than once a week. If any of these concerns are found make sure to get your Victorian Bulldog checked for ear infections with the vet. Haircuts are not necessary for Victorian bulldogs as their coats are kept short on their own. Although it is highly recommended to be brushing your Victorian Bulldogs teeth a minimum of times a week to maintain dental hygiene and avoid hefty vet bills. Lifespan As long as your Victorian Bulldog is well loved and taken care of you can expect an average of years of life. Thankfully the Victorian Bulldog has far easier care requirements than the English Bulldog. Regular exercise is needed, specifically a 45 minute daily walk is ideal. Although, a small yard or even an apartment will be perfectly fine for their living conditions. It is best to get a Victorian Bulldog when living in a moderate climate. They can overheat in the hot weather with difficulty to cool down again, and cold climates are also not great for these types of furry friends. Health Concerns Thankfully, the several major health concerns associated with English Bulldog have been bred out of the Victorian Bulldog. Although, just like any canine there are a few different common issues to keep an eye out for. Here are some common health issues in Victorian Bulldogs: Eye problems: Victorian bulldogs may start to experience vision loss as they get older. Obesity: Victorian Bulldogs should be fed two to three cups of dry food a day, between two separate meals. Skin Problems: you can stay ahead of any skin problems by staying ahead of grooming and coat care. Although their wrinkly bodies and faces do make them prone to infection. Hip dysplasia: With this breed's bow legs it can lead to hip problems. Hip dysplasia is when the hip detaches from the socket. Watch for any signs of limping, especially in older years. Popularity Bulldogs in general are an extremely popular breed. While they tend to be a dog people have drastic feelings about, either adoring the breed or finding them extremely unattractive. The Victorian Bulldog has been gaining an increasing amount of popularity over recent years leading them to being ranked the fourth most popular breed of purebred dogs in existence. There are a few different factors that will impact the price of a Victorian Bulldog. The reason the price may drastically change is the quality of breeder, the rarity of Victorian Bulldogs in that area geographically, the current health condition of the puppy, the age, and other factors. Again several factors such as popularity by region, age, health, and demand will all impact this. The Bulldog breed dates back to the 17th century, they became a symbol synonymous with the former president of the United States Sir Winston Churchill. While the most common type is the English Bulldog, the Victorian Bulldog is closely related and hard to tell apart at first glance. The Victorian Bulldog is about 2 inches bigger than the English bulldog, and can also reach a weight of 75lbs whereas the English bulldog can only reach a maximum weight of 55lbs. The Victorian Bulldog also has an average expectancy of years and the English Bulldog has a life expectancy of only years. While the health issues of the Victorian Bulldog are far less significant than what the English Bulldog experiences they have similar temperaments and are both easily trained dogs. The Victorian Bulldog tends to be taller and leaner than their English Bulldog cousins. English bulldogs are often known for their big disproportionate heads, Victorian Bulldogs are much more proportaint. For this reason it is important to take extra steps of doing proper research before committing to a specific breeder. By double checking the family lineage with a breeder you should be able to verify that this is a Victorian Bulldog, and not an English Bulldog. Since there is no true standard or certification a breeder can get in the United States acknowledging its practice of breeding purebred Victorian Bulldogs it is important to do your online research beforehand and read previous customer reviews to determine the legitimacy of the breeder. Dan J. Dan is a well respected content researcher who has vast experience working projects in the pets niche. He is a frequent contributor to dogtemperament. Check out our. Solid white, red, brindle, or fawn. Brindle, piebald, solid red, fawn, or white. Want to see the differences for yourself? Check out an English Bulldog and a Victorian Bulldog playing together! How Big will the Victorian Bulldog Get? Males will grow to about 16 — 19 inches 41 — 48 cm tall. Females can get up to 16 — 19 inches 41 — 48 cm tall. Males weigh up to 65 — 75 pounds 32 — 34 kg while females weigh 55 — 65 pounds 25 — 30 kg. They are on the bigger side, however, that means lots of more dogs to play with and love on! Their loyalness, reliable nature, and never-ending courage make them fantastic in the face of danger. Victorian Bulldogs have a very gentle temperament despite tough appearances. Because of their high levels of affections, kids and this breed get along fantastically. They are easy-going, love attention, and great for families of all kinds. If you care well for your Victorian Bulldog, as mentioned above you can expect years of living with your furry family member. The good news is these dogs require much less maintenance than the English Bulldog. While regular exercise is needed, a small yard or even an apartment does just well with them. Moderate climates are best for Victorian Bulldogs, as they are easily chilled and have a difficult time cooling down in hot weather. Make sure to socialize early to encourage getting along with younger kids and other animals. Take them to dog parks to visit with other pups or ask family members and friends who have kids to have a playdate with your dog. These dogs love to please their owners, so look forward to being able to have successful and positive training sessions. Keep Their Coat Shiny and Clean With short and smooth coats, expect only an average amount of shedding. It makes grooming much easier! Bathe only when necessary to avoid damaging oils and skin. Here are additional things you will need to do to keep them comfortable: Wipe face with a damp cloth every day to clean inside the wrinkles to prevent skin infection. Aim to brush teeth every day. This will fight against plaque buildup, bad breath, and gum disease. Like with humans! Check ears weekly for no swelling, order, or large wax build up. If you find this, it might mean an ear infection. They tend to drool a lot, so prepare to clean up after them. However, here are a few common issues: Eye problems. Watch out for any loss of vision, especially as they get older. Aim to feed your pup 2 to 3 cups of dry food a day and split those into two meals. Hip dysplasia. This happens when the hip falls out of line with the socket. It can lead to lameness, so watch out for limping. Skin problems. How Much are Victorian Bulldogs? A part of the reason the price is so high is that responsible breeders take care in working with these animals. Others are trying to jump on the bandwagon of the success of the Victorian Bulldog without taking care of their dogs. Ways to ensure you do so are to speak with them about references, health history, and pedigrees. Visit the house before selecting to ensure their dogs are treated with love and respect. Here are a few to pick from:. Lifespan Sociability Victorian Bulldogs are expensive, especially when comparing their cost to that of adopting an English Bulldog, because of their rarity. They are not a common dog, particularly in the U. When you investigate a breeder, make sure they treat their pups well and follow proper convention and best practices while rearing them. Whether they are at home or in a larger facility, they should always follow the guidelines when breeding dogs. It is essential to hold them to a high standard of treatment and check their considerations for yourself. You should request to get a visit through their breeding facility. They should always be happy to take you throughout each zone where the dogs are permitted. The breeder should likewise be happy to show you their veterinary records so you can know about any potential diseases that can be inherited. The Victorian Bulldog is a result of the resurrection breeding movement. The Victorian Bulldog is a breed that was never strictly named when they were first around in the s. It is thought that the Victorian Bulldog that we have today is what the original dogs that were used for bull-baiting were like. Old English Bulldogs are now extinct but looked incredibly similar to Victorian Bulldogs. As time progressed, the Old English Bulldog was bred to have an even rounder head with shorter, slightly bowed legs, a short muzzle, and a significantly pronounced underbite. All these traits were to accentuate the ones that people already loved in the Bulldogs. However, most of these characteristics led to debilitating illnesses and joint pains. Thus, the Bulldogs began to shift back to a more temperate version of their squatter, disjointed selves. This lineage is where we get the English Bulldogs that we have today, and the old Bulldog breeds that were originally used have been lost to us for decades. In the s, a movement began in Europe and North America that involved breeding modern dogs to reattain breeds lost to us. In , the same goal was undertaken by Kenn Mollett to recreate the older version of the Bulldog. He used elite breeds like the English Bulldog and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and only those exclusively registered with the U. Kennel Club. He accomplished the task, creating a breed genetically and physically similar to the dogs that would have been around in the days of old. Victorian Bulldogs are even sweeter and more affectionate than most other Bull breeds. Even though the original Bulldogs were used as bull baiters and fighting dogs, these aggressive tendencies have been mostly bred out of modern bull breeds. Since Kenn Mollett only used modern breeds with excellent characters and lineages, the new and improved Victorian Bulldog has an incredible personality. They are an incredibly kind and affectionate dog that is known for having a gentle nature. Victorian Bulldogs can make excellent guards and watchdogs. Even though Victorian Bulldogs are gentle pups, they are also extremely loyal. Combining these traits and their capacity to be trained quickly and thoroughly makes them an excellent choice if you need a guard dog or a watchdog. They are relatively docile creatures and are full of the potential for love and slobbery kisses. Getting to know your Bulldog is essential because they have extremely reliable personalities, meaning that they will stick to whatever kind of temperament they have and not change dramatically throughout their lives or during decision-making moments. Are These Dogs Good for Families? These dogs have plenty of patience and love to give and do not require much time for exercise, only for attention and cuddles. They are quite slobbery, so you will need to prepare your home for that. Watch out for puddles, particularly in the area around their food and water bowls. They tend to behave well around other dogs and even other cats. Your dog will often be wary of strangers until they know that they are safe. It is often recommended to teach your dog a command or a sign to show that the new person you are with is safe to be around and that they can relax. They should not eat all their food in one go, but instead, it should be spaced out into at least two meals a day. Dogs with broader chests like that of a Bulldog can struggle with bloating, a serious health condition furthered by indigestion. The way that their mouths are formed can also make eating quite difficult, so find a kibble that is well-suited to their mouth shape. Feed your Victorian Bulldog between 2 and 3 cups of food each day, depending on their age and level of activity. The Victorian Bulldog has a lengthened muzzle and slightly longer legs than an English Bulldog. That makes a difference because the latter often struggles with arduous amounts of activity, whereas a Victorian can handle longer walks or more intense activity. Still, Victorian Bulldogs are low-energy dogs. Try to take them on at least one daily walk or give them about 45 minutes of activity sprinkled throughout the day. Aim to hit 7 miles each week on your walks to ensure that they are getting enough exercise. These characteristics add up to make this dog perform well during obedience training. They can learn new ideas quickly. The only essential factor to keep in mind with the Victorian Bulldog is that they do not respond well to any kind of aggressiveness. Do not play top dog with them or attempt to assert your dominance. Instead, use positive reinforcement and plenty of vocal praise to encourage them to remember and practice tricks. They only need to be brushed a few times a week with a slicker brush to keep them from shedding as much. However, they require more baths than an average dog because they can develop more of a doggy odor. Bathe your Victorian Bulldog about once a month to six weeks, washing and drying them thoroughly around their wrinkles. Use a gentle shampoo and moisturizer because they are quite prone to skin issues. Beyond their coats, keep their nails clipped every month with a nail clipper and brush their teeth daily. They need special attention paid to their dental hygiene because of their jaw formation and how food can get stuck. Since the original dogs were bred with such selective care, they are much less prone to the many joint-related and genetic diseases extremely common to other Bulldogs. Be sensitive to their skin, and take care not to leave them outside in hot or cold weather. Maintain their veterinary appointments, and you should have a healthy dog for many years. Minor Conditions. Using carefully selected bull breeds, like the English Bulldog and Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Mollett used dogs exclusively registered to the UK Kennel Club and was able to recreate a dog that was thought to be gone forever. This bullbreed, despite only being in existence now for 30 years, is a kind and affectionate dog, known for their gentle and devoted nature and is recognized by the American Canine Association. Victorian Bulldog Appearance These pooches, are in most aspects, like the Old English Bulldog being a strongly built, medium sized and muscular dog, with a wide face and snout. The difference between the two Bulldogs is the that the Victorian is larger in size, but lighter in weight, and has a longer face compared to their English cousins are stockier. Size They are a medium sized dog, with males weighing between 65 to 75 lbs and the females weighing from 55 to 65 lbs. Colors These dogs have solid white, red, brindle or fawn coats. There are instances of bi coloured Bulldogs, but, these dogs are much rarer and deviate from the breed standard. They are a kind and loving dog with a have a soft gentle nature. Their affectionate nature means they require lots of attention and will love to cuddle up with you on the couch and have some belly scratches. They are drawn to people and enjoy being the life and soul of your house with their funny nature. Victorian Bulldog puppies are playful and rambunctious, but mellow out quickly into calm, content adults. They are more than content to play with anyone if encouraged, but, they are also more than happy to just be by your side. This dog can be rather lazy, and would love nothing more than to spend his day eating and sleeping. Getting your dog up and going can be a challenge, but once up, they have an incredible zest for life that will make every walk an adventure. With people, Victorian Bulldogs can be very social dogs, and love to meet new people. However, caution should be taken with unfamiliar dogs or other animals, as they have been known to react negatively to unfamiliar pets. With good socialisation from a young age, these dogs can make wonderful family pets. These dogs do very well in family environments, as they are fantastic with young children and will fit right in with your family. Their stocky build is deceptive, they do well in smaller spaces and are also suited for apartment life, and do not need a lot of yard space to run and play in due to their lazy temperament. Although this dog is renowned for its patience, and generally will be more than happy to let children climb all over them, it will still have a breaking point. If you plan to regularly have your pooch around young children, be sure to teach your them boundaries and how to treat the dog with care and respect. How to Train A Victorian Bulldog These dogs are very intelligent animals and because of their temperament respond very well to basic dog training. Being a bull breed, most people think that dominance training is the way forwards with these dogs. However, the exact opposite is true. Due to their loving and loyal temperament, Victorian Bulldogs do not respond well to any form of dominance or force-based training and should only be trained with positive reinforcement. This breed responds very well to clicker training — as a form of positive reinforcement. This may be something you want to try with your pooch. Positive reinforcement will go a long way to training a well-rounded dog. These dogs love to please, therefore training your dog , with a food-based reward, will help to make training more encouraging for them given their sometimes stubborn nature. Caring For A Bulldog Bulldogs are quite intolerant to heat, and although Victorian Bulldogs fair better than their flatter-face cousins, they are still susceptible to overheating. Be sure to be aware of the temperature and try to keep time spent outside and play to a minimum on hotter days. Exercise Requirements As a medium size dog, they require only 40 minutes of exercise daily — not like the minutes required by Husky Lab Mixes! This can be split into two walks a day and spread out over morning and evening. Some sort of exercise is required; be it a walk or yard play, as getting them active every day is extremely beneficial for you and their health and wellbeing. Yard play may also be beneficial for this dog. Old English Bulldogs love to play tug of war and these guys are no different. Any toy that you give a bulldog should be durable, as these dogs love to chew. Try enticing your dog with a tug rope to engage those muscles and encourage a full body workout. Grooming and Shedding These dogs are average shedders, shedding lightly throughout the year and heavily twice a year with the seasons. They will need light grooming with a fine bristle comb. This pooch is not a fan of water and so you may only wish to bathe him when necessary. When bathing, it is important to make sure you run a damp cloth under all their folds of skin and properly dry those areas too. When grooming, it is also beneficial to clean their ears and eyes to prevent infection. You may also want to brush their teeth to account for their doggie breath. Feeding and Diet Like most Bulldogs, this dog does very well on a raw diet too. To feed your dog a raw diet requires a basic understanding of nutrition, and therefore is not suitable for inexperienced owners. It may be an idea to consult a raw feeding company or you veterinarian for advice if you wish to feed your dog this way. If you are reluctant to feed raw to your dog, they this breed will do well on a diet of dry pet food i. If you wish to feed dry food, choose a high-quality grain free dog food is your best option. A good compromise is to feed your dog one raw meal and one of dry food, as this captures all the potential dietary benefits. Whatever you feed your dog, spreading the meal into two portions is a good idea to reduce the risk of bloat. Known Health Problems Due to the careful breeding, these dogs have no genetic diseases associated with them, and therefore most Victorian Bulldogs live long, happy and healthy life. Having pet insurance could save you from the headache of going to the vets with reimbursement for every vet bill from now on! This dog breed is new and rare, yet demands for it keep increasing. Consequently, it is hard to shop or adopt a Victorian Bulldog. Because this breed is rare, finding Victorian Bulldog breeders can be challenging, and you might need to wait for some time before you see an available puppy. It gets even harder if you wish to adopt this breed. The pup should also be well-bred, free from health issues, and kept in a good environment. These and more should be your priority when getting a breed. Feeding Victorian Bulldogs are not picky eaters, so feeding them is not challenging. The recommended amount of calories for this breed each day is 1, calories, but that can vary depending on size. Obesity is a common problem with this breed because of its large appetite, so you should control its meal. Do not let it free feed, or it risks getting overweight. Exercise is geared towards keeping it healthy and maintaining its weight. Left alone, the Victorian Bulldog can become a couch potato. It can be satisfied with a 20 to 30 minutes walk per day, after which you might find it dozing off close to your couch. Hiking is not a good choice for this breed, but there are some other activities it can enjoy, like frisbee toss and swimming with a life jacket for safety. Training The Victorian Bulldog is loyal and easy to train. Good for both new and experienced pet parents, this breed loves to please and has enough intelligence to learn quickly. Obedience training is easy for it, and it should be mentally stimulated to curb boredom. It also needs socialization. Harsh treatment or too much dominance from you will make the Victorian Bulldog get hard-headed and daring. The best way to train this breed is through positive reinforcements. Praises and motivation work wonders. You can also use dog treats but watch the calories. Grooming Grooming a Victorian Bulldog is easy because of its short coat. Taking care of its coat requires minimal effort, and twice a week coat brushing is enough. Bathing with a good shampoo should be done once a month, the exceptions being when the dog gets dirty. The simple brushing will do just fine. You can use our recommended brushes for short hair dogs for a better effect. The wrinkles on its face need to be clean. The ears can also accumulate dirt and wax, leading to an infection. You should properly clean them too. Also, take care of the teeth and face. It also tends to be healthier than the English Bulldog, just as Mollett wanted. However, it has its share of medical complications. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: These are the main Victorian Bulldog health issues, and because they are hereditary, they can be prevented. Both illnesses are joint-related, and they can lead to arthritis or lameness. Symptoms include limping and a reluctance to move or exercise. Skin Allergy: This is often a result of the wrinkles on the skin. Obesity: This can be resolved by a good feeding plan for your dog Sensitivity to Weather Changes: If you live in an environment with extreme weather conditions, it will be an issue. Is the Victorian Bulldog Right for me? To be sure about this, you should know what advantages the breed will bring to your home and the disadvantages as well. Pros Suitable for an apartment and smaller houses. Good first-time dogs. Rare dog breed and hard to find. Active people might prefer a more energetic dog. Not hypoallergenic, making it a poor choice for allergic people. Where to Find Victorian Bulldog Puppies for Sale or Adoption To make the work easy for you, here are some avenues from which you can find a Victorian Bulldog either for sale or adoption. What do I need to know about Victorian Bulldogs? The Victorian Bulldog was developed by a breeder named Ken Mollett and is a medium to large-sized breed. It is both a companion and a guard dog and can be a good family dog. They are low energy breeds and can adapt to any environment. Although a purebred dog, it is not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club or any other major Kennel Clubs. The English Bulldog and the Victorian Bulldog are related, and they are very similar. However, they are not the same; the latter is bigger than the English Bulldog, and it looks stockier. It also tends to be healthier. Wrap Up There are a lot of opportunities for the Victorian Bulldog to become popular, and with the increasing demand, we might be seeing more of it as the years go by. An excellent family companion and household guardian, they are one of the coolest dog breeds to have. Life Span Did You Know? The Victorian Bulldog is a cousin to the English Bulldog. Victorian Bulldogs are slightly larger, tend to be a little bit lighter in the chest, and have a slightly longer snout. Victorian Bulldogs might look a little intimidating, but they are loyal and reliable sweethearts with a gentle nature that make a great family companion. They are very affectionate and thrive on human attention and companionship. They are excellent guard dogs that are known for their courage and protective instincts. They are also great with children and other pets and are naturally gentle with them. They can be suspicious of other dogs if they are not socialized properly. This dog breed may drool a little and snore, but they are a loving and dedicated companion that will love spending time with you. The Victorian Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They do well in larger homes and can also adapt well to apartment living as long as they get enough attention and exercise. They tend to be less active indoors, which makes them a good fit for apartment dwellers. They do best in moderate climates as they get cold easily and do not handle heat very well. Victorian Bulldogs also crave human companionship and attention, so they will not do well with long periods of time alone. This is a hardy dog breed that is relatively healthy. Although they are bred specifically to avoid many of the genetic diseases common to Bulldogs, there are some conditions to be aware of including skin problems, cherry eye, entropion, or hip and elbow dysplasia. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and also to see any health clearances can help allay concerns about potential health issues. The Victorian Bulldog is sensitive, intelligent, and eager to please. They tend to pick up training quickly and relate well to their humans. This makes them a highly trainable dog breed and a good fit for owners of any experience level. They respond best to gentle, positive, and rewards-based training. This dog breed has a moderate grooming level and is an average shedder. Common coat colors are red, brindle, fawn, solid white, or pied. They have a shorthaired coat of fine, smooth fur that requires minimal grooming. Bulldogs are known for their wrinkly faces, which need to be cleaned regularly to avoid irritated skin or infections. Gently cleaning inside the wrinkles each day with a damp cloth will help keep your Victorian Bulldog comfortable and prevent skin problems. In addition to coat and skin care, there are other grooming tasks that every dog needs, like nail trimming, regular ear checks, and dental care. Monthly nail trimming is usually sufficient to keep nails from getting too long. Ears that flop over can trap dirt, debris, and moisture, which can lead to ear infections. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Dental hygiene chews and a dental care diet can help supplement your dental care efforts. Getting them used to regular grooming tasks and keeping it a positive experience makes grooming much easier as your dog grows. It can even become a bonding experience that calms and relaxed both of you! Victorian Bulldogs have a moderate activity level. They can sometimes act like couch potatoes when they are indoors, but they still need some regular exercise every day to stay happy and healthy. A few walks a day with some playtime or time to run around is sufficient for this stocky pup. Although they are more athletic than their English Bulldog cousins, they still have a short snout, so they can get overheated easily. A fully-grown Victorian Bulldog usually stands between inches tall at the shoulders and weighs between pounds. A Victorian Bulldog generally lives years. The Victorian Bulldog was bred to recreate the appearance of the Bulldog breed from the early 19th century, so it looks more like the Bulldogs from years ago than those of today. Currently, we do not have any Victorian Bulldog puppies available, but we can alert you when new Victorian Bulldog puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds. Exercise Grooming The Victorian Bulldog began to spread far and wide after Ken Mollet who loved the bulldogs greatly, decided to create a healthier breed of the dogs. It took awhile for him to achieve the result he wanted and much later he was working on his breed alone. Ken Mollet used breeds recognized by the Kennel Clubs and Healthy dogs developed by prominent dog breeders. He used Bullmastiffs, Staffords and Dogue de Bordeaux in his bid to accomplish this mission and used any source he could obtain the perfect idea of how the bulldogs looked like in Victorian times. In , Ken formed the Victorian Bulldog society. Today, many dog breeds are similar to it. However, its distinct attributes still make it distinguishable. The Victorian Bulldog is a lovable dog. It is important to bring up the dog appropriately through good training. The Victorian Bulldog is a protective dog. It is good to have around children. This breed is quite easy to train, it requires simple and straightforward instructions to build on. Given its high intelligence, the dog is sure to take on more advanced instructions with quality and engaging training sessions. The Victorian Bulldog adapts easily into a moderate climate. It is unable to cope well in extreme regions of either hot or cold weather. It requires a small yard for movement, a large apartment will also suffice. It is not an energetic dog. However, it needs moderate exercise and mental stimulation every day. On average, the dog requires about 3hrs of activities ranging from medium intensity to low-intensity activities and mentally tasking activities. This enables it to grow into a responsible dog. Exercise helps keep your dog balanced a d contributes immensely to a healthy appearance. The Victorian Bulldog shed hair to a reasonable extent and will require brushing its coat a few times every week. Washing often can damage its coat and rinse off the natural oils that make it glow and look healthy. Our Victorian Bulldog puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. The Victorian Bulldog has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. How big is the Victorian Bulldog? This dog breed weighs 55 to 75 pounds. It is as tall as 19 inches Is it safe to neuter my Victorian Bulldog? The general advice which applies to all dog breed is to neuter the dogs when they are mature. Maturity stages can vary for different breeds of dogs. You can also meet your Veterinary Doctor for proper guidance How aggressive is the Victorian Bulldog? The Victorian Bulldog is not aggressive it is rather friendly and social, it can easily relate with other dogs and people around it. I like to keep my dogs lean and healthy, how much food do I need to keep the Victorian Bulldog healthy? Puppies require three moderate portions given to them at evenly spaced times throughout the day. As they grow older, they can have reasonable portions twice a day to keep them feeling satiated. Why is the Victorian Bulldog referred to as Victorian? It is also named after its breeder, Mollet. How well does the Victorian Bulldog cope with water? Yes, the dog is friendly with other animals and people, its attitude towards children is no different. The dog is smart and caring and the children would enjoy its company. Does the Victorian Bulldog drool? The dog is likely to drool heavily, given that it takes the general mouth shape of the bulldogs. Drooling can become excessive during any form of physical activity. It is nothing to worry about. Are Victorian Bulldog hypoallergenic? No, the bulldogs do not shed heavily, therefore they have a lesser tendency of triggering allergies. The Victorian Bulldog has an intimidating stature, but it is full of love and care. Sociable and friendly with people and other animals alike. Are you interested in purchasing a Victorian Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
miniature british bulldog puppies for sale - Conclusion: How many puppies do Goldendoodles have? It is typical for a female Goldendoodle to birth puppies per litter, with up to two litters per year. They can do this for around years, as long as their health is adequate. Several different components influence the size of a Goldendoodles litter. These items can include genetics, health, age, size, and diet. One way to ensure a large litter is to feed your dog a healthy diet consisting of high-quality ingredients and adequate portions. This act will allow her to get all the necessary nutrients needed to sustain herself and her babies during conception and pregnancy. Doing so will also enable a quicker recovery, which will create more extraordinary conditions for future litters. You also want to ensure healthy birth practices with the appropriate veterinary care. Doing this twice a year for multiple years can also take a toll on their bodies, especially without proper care. Just like a human mother, having pregnancies too close together can cause health issues or increase the risk for problems down the road. Calculating Litter Size Two super small brown or chocolate Goldendoodles Being that a Goldendoodle is part Golden Retriever and part Poodle, there are variants when you look at the exact breed of Poodle. With Golden Retrievers, there are different sub-breeds, but they are all quite similar. Even outside of the size variations, their care and temperament also have other characteristics. Whereas a Toy Poodle has a small dog mentality, the Standard Poodle can be more friendly and inviting. And just how does this play into the litter size of a Goldendoodle? The type of Poodle that the Golden Retriever mates with will significantly affect the number of babies conceived. The Golden Retriever breed has eight puppies per litter on average. However, poodles vary based on type. Some Poodle breeds can produce up to five babies in a litter. Others may only birth one of two babies with each pregnancy. Therefore, the parenting genetic combination and the lineage between the two come into play to dictate the litter amount. When you combine this with the many other factors that influence litter sizes health, age, diet, genetics, height , it is truly a guessing game until the birth occurs. The more pregnancies that occur will bring larger litter sizes as long as the dog is in good health and receives appropriate veterinary care. Therefore, do not be disappointed if the first Goldendoodle litter results in a small number of puppies. Future births will likely turn out more babies. When Breeding Can Start Those who make a living out of breeding animals often want to get started as soon as possible. It is worth knowing that Goldendoodles tend to go into heat at around six months of age. This is true for a smaller Toy Goldendoodle and Mini Goldendoodle as well. Going into heat means that their bodies are capable of reproducing, similar to women who start puberty. However, it would be best if you always waited until at least the second heat cycle before attempting to breed. The reasoning is because despite being able to conceive and birth them, the dog is not at an appropriate maturity due to their young age. Without proper care from their mother, the puppies could suffer from poor health or even die. As you learn about animals and the life processes they go through, it is easy to see the connections between animals and humans. Humans are capable of producing at a young age, similar to animals. However, we are discouraged from doing so due to the mental and emotional levels needed to parent a dependent being adequately. This instance is just one situation where there is overlap between species, and it points out how similar things in life can indeed be. This need pertains to both the mother and the father. If you again compare this situation to humans, it is similar to how fertility is higher in younger couples. Our eggs and sperm are of higher quality and mobility in our youth. Therefore, we often find it more simplistic to conceive in our earlier years. This case is the same for dogs. As they age, the quality of their reproductive components goes down, making it more difficult to conceive. In their earlier years, the process of conceiving is much easier. This is true of the female dog and male dog. On the flip side and in similarity to humans, as dogs age, they are likely to give birth to larger litters. This likelihood is based on whether the dog has previously given birth or not. If they have and conceive again in later years, it is of the high probability that they will have a large hybrid dog litter. Correspondingly, if a human gets pregnant later in life, the chances of conceiving multiples go up. There is a higher likelihood of a woman naturally conceiving more than one baby at a time over the age of .For Goldendoodle dogs, this age is five. Issues That Negatively Affect Litter Size There are a lot of factors that go into a successful birth and the size of a litter. There are also several things to stay away from if you want to achieve the best-case scenario. Having a calm and serene environment lays the best foundation for pregnancy, even in canines. Although the idea makes sense, conception is more likely if it is done naturally. In this way, it is more conducive to the actions of the body and the natural process that happens when in heat. As a dog owner this is unacceptable, and not the actions of a reputable breeder. Genetics: We have talked about how breed genetics can influence litter size. However, it does need to be understood that just because the parents of a dog conceived quickly or birthed large litters does not mean that the children of those dogs will have the same fate. As we know, genetic can often skip generations or not show back up at all. These anomalies can happen within dogs as well. Poodles typically have puppies per litter but this can vary. Inbreeding: There is a certain percentage of genetic similarities that are acceptable to breed between. Some people whoa re trying to create the perfect doodle puppy designer dog cut corners and make mistakes. Inbreeding is dangerous because of the medical issues it can cause in dogs that are a product of the situation. In the search for a F1b Goldendoodle or multigen Goldendoodle mny breeders cut corners and run out of unrelated dog. This is unacceptable. A reputable breeder cuts NO corners. Inbreeding can also cause problems for future litters, inbred or not. The reason is because of the abnormalities that trickle down like predispotion to hip dysplasia or poorly formed body parts. Because of this, smaller Goldendoodles litter size can become more prevalent. With Goldendoodles being a highly desired breed with high demand, it is vital to remember the key concepts above. Successful breeding and large litter sizes result from careful practices. Conclusion: Dog breeding is a complex subject, affected by many different elements. It is important to remember that you can only control so much and that having healthy dogs to give to new families is the desired result. Breeding dogs, especially popular breed types, is a form of income for many people. Because of this, larger litter sizes equals higher profits. However, it is essential to remember that dogs are not machines. They are members of the family. Their health and safety are a priority, just like yours. Accounting for their wellbeing will benefit you more in the long run, so it is essential to focus on that. Although the prospect of an eight puppy litter is enticing, so is the health and happiness of our best fur friend. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. View Larger Image How many puppies do Goldendoodles have? Like many Doodle lovers, you might be asking yourself this question. First, a Goldendoodle is the most popular Doodle dog. Its parent breeds are the Golden Retriever and Poodle. A Goldendoodle comes in these sizes: miniature, medium, and standard. Female Goldendoodle puppies go on the heat for the first time in six months. Even so, the best time to mate the dog is during the following one or two heat cycles. If you desire to raise Goldendoodle dogs, read the rest of this article to know about its pregnancies and litters. What are the various Goldendoodle generations? F1 Generations — The best hybrid Goldendoodle litter comes from the first generation, the F1 Goldendoodle. In the F1BB Goldendoodles category, puppies have .The next F2B Goldendoodle litter size is .The F2BB Goldendoodle litter consists of .How many puppies do Goldendoodles have after the first litter? The latter generations get more Poodle genes. Poodle is the dominant parent determining factors like size, intelligence, and coat. As Poodles can be miniature, medium, or standard-sized, they can bring forth puppies of varying heights and weights. How many puppies do Goldendoodles have? Now you understand a few facts about the Goldendoodle generations and backgrounds. Next, we will answer this: how many puppies do Goldendoodles have? On average, a Goldendoodle female gives birth to three to eight puppies. This number is an estimate because several factors affect the litter size. The dog generations matter when estimating the litter size. Arriving at an accurate answer requires first answering these two questions. First, how many puppies do Golden retrievers usually have? Golden retrievers produce eight puppies on average. The next question to consider asking yourself is this: how many puppies do Poodles have? Poodle dogs tend to have more babies as their size increases. Hence, a toy Poodle produces three puppies, while a miniature one produces five. But what number of puppies do standard Poodles have? Standard Poodles are the biggest dogs in the lot. They produce about seven puppies in one litter. A Goldendoodle dog should produce a range of three to eight puppies. Litters can be bigger than eight or smaller than three. Nobody can accurately answer this, how many puppies do Goldendoodles have? It is a matter of chance. When your dog gives birth, you can tell if your estimations are correct. What can increase or reduce the litter size? Goldendoodles are some of the loveliest Doodles. No person can mind having many puppies in a litter. Sadly, you might expect many puppies only to get three or fewer. A secret to having a larger litter size lies in the degree of care you offer the female dog. Although you cannot control some biological factors affecting fertility, you should play your part. Goldendoodle size Generally, the litter size depends on the Goldendoodle size. A poodle is the determinant of size. Earlier, we noted that Poodles have more babies as their sizes increase. Thus, larger Goldendoodles come from mating a standard-sized Poodle and a Golden Retriever. These hybrid dogs will produce more puppies than miniature and medium Goldendoodles. Here is the breakdown: How many puppies does a standard Goldendoodle have? How many dogs does a medium Goldendoodle produce? How many puppies does a mini Goldendoodle have? Goldendoodle generations We already told you how generations could affect the number of puppies a mother can have. The offspring can be big or small depending on the percentage of parent genes in a Goldendoodle. Where the gene ratio is , you might have fewer or many puppies. If a dog inherits more dominant fertility genes from its Golden Retriever parent, it might have a big litter. In most cases, though, puppies have more Poodle genes. How many puppies do Goldendoodles have based on this notion? If Poodle genes are dominant, the litter size will be three to eight puppies. We must also consider this: What number of puppies does a standard Poodle have? Standard Poodles have seven puppies on average. You will be at an advantage if mating Goldendoodles that came from a Standard Poodle parent. The odds are high that the litter will be big. Food A female Goldendoodle needs to eat enough calories each day. It also needs to eat a balanced diet to get fertile many times. Likewise, pregnant dogs require a healthy diet to deliver puppies with higher odds of survival. How many puppies do Goldendoodles have when eating a proper diet? First, a young female dog should always eat a healthy meal to better its chances of going into heat. Provide the best dog food for Goldendoodle during pregnancy time to get healthy puppies. Secondly, the dog should eat a more nutritious minerals and vitamin diet when pregnant and after giving birth. If you follow these easy rules, your Goldendoodle might sire more puppies. Unhealthy mothers deliver smaller litters and weak puppies that may not make it to adulthood. Current health status How many puppies do Goldendoodles have if their health status is good? Healthy Goldendoodles produce more puppies than unhealthy ones. For instance, your Goldendoodle boasts a lot of mental and physical energy. It needs proper physical and mental stimulation to get fit and feel happy. A Goldendoodle requires sixty minutes of exercise daily and some quiet time. Another determinant of good health is the number of medical checkups you offer your dog. Before mating your Goldendoodle, call a professional veterinarian for a thorough medical checkup. After breeding your pet successfully, keep taking it for pregnancy testing and evaluations. A veterinarian can guide you on how to care for a pregnant Goldendoodle pet. The pet does not need regular prenatal checkups like humans. Take the pet to a vet in the beginning and toward the end of a pregnancy. How many puppies do Goldendoodles have at birth? A health checkup done two to three weeks before birth ensures that the mother can deliver all puppies safely. If the mother and litter are healthy, wait for the birth date to deliver the puppies at home. As with humans, puppy deliveries are not always safe. As anything can happen, visit your veterinarian if an emergency crops up. Whether the dog delivers at home or not, it requires a thorough medical checkup about forty-eight hours after. The vet will verify if the mother and puppies are doing fine. How many puppies do Goldendoodles have if the pregnancy ends well? The dog might not have stillbirths, which means all the puppies in the womb will come out. A younger woman has optimal fertility levels, unlike an older woman. Also, an older woman than thirty-five years has higher odds of carrying twins, triplets, or other multiple pregnancies. Hence, how many puppies do Goldendoodles have based on age? Younger Goldendoodles with smaller body sizes reach maturity earlier than their larger counterparts. Also, older Goldendoodles can have more puppies than younger mothers. Nonetheless, an older dog should be super healthy to avoid having weak puppies in one litter. Younger dogs produce fewer but stronger puppies and can come on heat faster than older dogs. Breeding conditions The environment in which you breed your dog can determine the litter size it would produce. If the female dog has stress, it will deliver fewer puppies. It might also deliver weak puppies with limited chances of reaching adulthood. How many puppies do Goldendoodles have in favorable breeding conditions? Your dog can have a bigger litter if it has no stress. Human mothers respond poorly to stress during pregnancy. Some suffer from miscarriages, hypertension, and more. Dog mothers are similar in that they can lose a pregnancy due to stress. To help your Goldendoodle get pregnant and not suffer a miscarriage, provide a nurturing environment. Inbreeding The choice of dogs to mate with is crucial when answering this part: how many puppies do Goldendoodles have? If you keep mating the same related dogs, the chances of having smaller litters are high. Inbreeding leads to genetic defects in dogs and other animals. Additionally, the resulting offspring might inherit health issues from the family lineage. The more health problems the dogs have, the lower their survival chances. Even surviving puppies might later pass bad genes to their offspring. The solution to inbreeding is finding a male from another dog family. Artificial insemination can lead to higher or lower-quality puppies. It may also decrease the litter size. Dogs sire more puppies when they mate naturally. Besides, the professional conducting artificial insemination should use more than one dog to increase the litter size. When should you allow your dog to mate for the first time? A mating cycle can affect the puppies numbers. As we mentioned, a female can reach its first mating cycle at six months. Do not give your female to a male dog at this age. Its body is too young and might not have adequate eggs. Besides, a young dog can develop pregnancy complications and deliver in an emergency. These factors can lower their odds of having many puppies. It is better to have your Goldendoodle reproduce at twenty-four months or after. After the eighth to the tenth year, it is safer to forbid your Goldendoodle to have other litters. It can develop risky health issues and die before its fifteenth year. A Goldendoodle should get pregnant in its second or third cycle. Their gestation period is sixty-one to sixty-four days. As we earlier said, the type of Poodle used to breed your Goldendoodle can affect its future offspring. If the Poodle is of medium size, chances are that the mother would produce five to six puppies. Again, if the mother has stronger reproduction genes from its Golden Retriever parent, her chances of reaching six puppies go up. A Goldendoodle dog will deliver three to eight puppies in their first litter. The more Poodle genes the dogs have, the higher the odds of having a smaller litter. But when considering standard Poodles, the litter gets bigger. Three or eight puppies are not standard figures but estimates. Ever asked this: how many puppies do Labradoodles have? Labradoodles have twelve puppies per litter. They produce a larger litter than Goldendoodles. Miniature Goldendoodles can have three to 4 puppies per litter. They produce the least number of puppies on average. What is the Best Age to Breed a Goldendoodle? The correct age to mate your Goldendoodle dog is 24 months. Six to twelve months is usually the first cycle in most dogs. It is not the best age because the pet is too young to nurture puppies. The second or third cycle is the best time. Related Posts. The demand is huge and if your dog is expecting, some of your friends might be already asking you if they can have a puppy. How big a Goldendoodle litter size is depends on a variety of factors, most of them having to do with genetics. What is a Goldendoodle? A Goldendoodle is the cute child of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Since Golden Retrievers and Poodles are among the most popular dog breeds in the world, it is easy to see how Goldennoodles have become so popular in such a short time. The first known example of a Doodle is the Cockapoo, which first appeared in the s, the result of the happy union between Poodles and Cocker Spaniels. Goldendoodles only appeared in the s and at the moment they seem set to become the number one Doodle dogs. How many different types of Goldendoodle are there? Basically, there are two types of Goldendoodle, and this depends on the size of the Poodle in the mix. If a Golden Retriever mates with a standard Poodle inches tall , their offspring will be a Standard Goldendoodle. However with a miniature Poodle 13 to 15 inches tall or a toy Poodle less than 10 inches tall , the result is a Mini Goldendoodle. On average, Goldendoodles are 20 — 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 50 and 90 lbs. What is the average Goldendoodle litter size? To understand this we must first talk about how the size of a dog affects its litter size. Large dogs tend to have larger litters simply because their body is big enough to carry more puppies at a time. This explains why Chihuahua and Pomeranian females have puppies on average, while a big Bullmastiff averages 5 — 13 puppies per litter. For Golden Retrievers the average litter size is 8 puppies. Since this is the average number, you can expect a Golden Retriever to give birth to as little as four puppies or an impressive 12 puppies at a time. With Poodles, the average litter size depends on the type of Poodle. Standard Poodles have six puppies on average, miniature Poodles have five, while a toy Poodle might have 1 — 3 puppies per litter. Mini Goldendoodles can produce 3 — 8 puppies per litter, which takes us to an average of five. Standard Goldendoodles can have more than five puppies per size, but you must understand this is not an exact science and there are other factors that come into play. While older females tend to produce larger litters, the same cannot be said about the father. An older dog might be affected by sper mobility issues so the litter that comes from such a union might be small. In general, a female dog is fertile the first time she goes into heat, which happens between 6 — 12 months of age. For Golden Retriever it is recommended that they mate for the first time around the age of two, which corresponds to the third heat cycle. The same goes for Poodles of any type. A female that does not mate until the age of five will generally have small litters for the rest of her life. In some cases, it is recommended to mate a female twice in a row and then give her a break for a cycle or two to allow her to regain her strength. These are general recommendations that apply to all dog breeds, including Goldendoodles. A female dog can have puppies throughout her life, but it is not recommended. As far as Golden Retrievers or Poodles are concerned, a female should only be mated until the age of 8 at the most. After the age of , a pregnancy can have complications, putting the life of the mother in danger. What is the difference between first generation and second generation Goldendoodles? To put it simply F1 means first generation Goldendoodle. F2 means second generation Goldendoodle. The main difference between F1 and F2 is that first generation Goldendoodles benefit from the so-called Hybrid Vigor. On the other hand, with F1 Goldendoodles it is more difficult to predict what traits they will inherit from their parents, in terms of appearance or personality. An F1 might have a smooth coat like a Golden Retriever or a curly one, typical of Poodles. Some still shed quite a lot, like their Retriever parent, while others are hypoallergenic and barely shed at all. F2 Goldendoodles are more predictable and they tend to shed less than first generation dogs. At what age should a Goldendoodle puppy be weaned? If you have a litter of brand new Goldendoodles you might be wondering when they are going to grow up a bit and be less dependent on their mother. By 6 weeks a puppy should be completely weaned. At what age will a Goldendoodle puppy be ready to go to their new home? True, in terms of feeding needs puppies are ready to move on at around 6 weeks of age, but they should not be separated from their mother and their siblings quite so early. What you need to keep in mind is that this period is crucial in terms of socializing and a dog starts doing this with his siblings. It is also a period when a puppy learns about getting and sending signals to other dogs, and this is very important for their future training as well as for their ability to interact with other dogs later in life. Typically, these dogs are bred to take the best traits from their parents. Even inside the same litter, puppies can vary widely. Other Similar Posts. We will also talk about some of the factors that can affect this number. The average litter size for Goldendoodles is three to eight puppies. However, this number can range from one to twelve puppies. Litters of ten or more are considered large, while litters of four or less are considered small. There are a few factors that can affect the litter size of Goldendoodles. Some of these include: Stressful Environment: One of the most common reasons for small litter size is stress. If the dam mother is in a high-stress environment during pregnancy, she is more likely to have a smaller litter. This is because the stress hormone cortisol can cause the dam to abort some of her fetuses. Younger dogs tend to have larger litters than older dogs. This is because their bodies are more capable of handling multiple pregnancies. If the dam is not in good health or if she is not getting enough nutrients, she is more likely to have a smaller litter. Additionally, if the dam has had previous litters that were small, she is more likely to have another small litter. This is because her body may not be able to produce enough milk for multiple puppies. Genetics: Genetics plays a huge role in litter size. Some breeds of dogs are more likely to have larger litters than others. For example, Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers tend to have larger litters than toy breeds. Additionally, some individual dogs may be predisposed to having smaller litters due to their genes. Inbreeding: Inbreeding can also impact litter size. If two closely related dogs are bred, they are more likely to have smaller litters. This is because inbreeding can lead to genetic defects that can impact fertility. Additionally, inbred dogs are more likely to have health problems that can make it difficult for them to produce large litters. How The Insemination Took Place: Another factor that can impact litter size is how the insemination took place. If artificial insemination was used, the number of puppies that are born may be smaller than if the dogs were allowed to mate naturally. This is because artificial insemination can cause damage to the eggs or sperm, which can reduce fertility. Additionally, if only one dog was used for artificial insemination, the litter size may be smaller than if two dogs were used. The age of the Goldendoodle can also impact litter size. This is because their bodies are not yet fully developed and they may not be able to produce as many eggs. Additionally, younger dogs are more likely to experience complications during pregnancy and delivery, which can lead to smaller litters. The average age for a Goldendoodle to have its first litter is between 24 months and three years old. However, some Goldendoodles may have their first litter as early as 18 months old, while others may not have their first litter until they are three years old. The average age for a Goldendoodle to have its last litter is between six and eight years old. However, some Goldendoodles may continue to have litters until they are ten years old or older. Beyond this, you can put your Goldendoodle at serious risk of health complications by continuing to breed them. At this age, the puppy will begin to eat solid food and will no longer need to drink milk. Weaning a puppy too early can cause health problems, so it is important to wait until the puppy is at least six weeks old before you begin weaning them. Conclusion: We would like to conclude by saying that the number of puppies a Goldendoodle can have depends on many factors. The health of the mother, the age of the puppy, and the weight of the mother all play a role in how many puppies a Goldendoodle can have. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine if your Goldendoodle is healthy enough to have another litter of puppies. Related posts: The average litter size for a goldendoodle is six puppies. The goldendoodle is a unique and beloved breed of dog that is slowly growing in popularity. Unlike many regular canine breeds, goldendoodles are fairly renowned for their larger-than-usual litter sizes — averaging around six puppies per litter. For goldendoodle owners who want to take the plunge into responsible parenting, this large of a litter can seem pretty daunting! However, with the proper supplies and resources, raising and loving multiple goldendoodle puppies can become an incredibly rewarding experience that all members of the family can be involved in. Standard goldendoodles can have litters of anywhere from two to twelve puppies, but six is the most common number. Goldendoodles, a cross between a goldendoodle and a poodle, are an increasingly popular family pet. Not only are goldendoodles beautiful, but they come with the intelligence of a poodle and the outgoing attitude of a goldendoodle. See also The Secret to Getting AKC Documents for Your Goldendoodle When it comes to goldendoodle litters, there can be quite a range from two to twelve puppies per litter — however six is fairly typical. This is why goldendoodles make such great companions; not too many puppies all at once to manage! Each pup has an individual personality that adds to the charm of having one in your life. Some factors that can affect how many puppies a goldendoodle has include the age and health of the dam, as well as the size of the litter. When it comes to goldendoodle puppies , there are a few factors that can affect how many puppies the pup will have in a litter. Additionally, sometimes goldendoodles may unexpectedly only have one puppy in a litter — even if both parents are healthy and relatively young. This is due to numerous things including genetics and size difference between parents which can make it difficult for goldendoodles to have large litters. However, most goldendoodles have a somewhat average-sized litter ranging from three to six puppies depending on these other factors. If you are thinking about getting a goldendoodle, be prepared for a lot of puppy kisses! Goldendoodles are a unique and loving breed of pup, and getting one promises life full of unconditional puppy love! As the offspring of two majestic breeds—Golden Retrievers and Poodles—Goldendoodles are highly praised for their good temperaments, intelligence, and trainability. Of course, this means that you can also expect an abundance of puppy kisses when you bring a goldendoodle into your home. Get ready to be showered with tail wags and slobbery smooches! Goldendoodles make wonderful companions who will stick around to keep you company for a long time. All in all, goldendoodles are a great breed for many reasons and the litter size is no exception. In conclusion, it is possible for standard Goldendoodles to have anywhere between one and twelve puppies, although the average litter size is usually six to eight. Additionally, it is essential to consult a vet in order to make sure that both mother and puppies stay safe during the birthing process. Related posts:. By Jennifer Nelson When you are looking to get a Goldendoodle, it is likely that you will have a lot of questions about the dog and how they will do within your family. And if you decide to take it to the next level and breed the Goldendoodle yourself, you need to learn as much about this type of dog as possible to be prepared. One of the first questions that you can have in either of these situations is what is the average litter size of a Goldendoodle. What is the Average Litter Size of a Goldendoodle? Goldendoodles usually have between puppies in a litter. Poodles average 6 puppies per litter and Golden Retrievers average 8 per litter, so Standard Goldendoodles usually have bigger litters while minis and smaller have progressively smaller litters. Keep in mind that larger dogs will often have a larger litter because they have the right body size in order to carry more of the puppies at the time. This is why small dogs like the Pomeranian are just going to have an average of 1 to 3 puppies while a big Bullmastiff will be able to have up to 13 puppies. For the Goldendoodle and other crossbreeds , we are going to need to look more at the averages for the parents rather than for the dog. And the exact amount can vary depending on if you are working with a standard Goldendoodle or a mini Goldendoodle. When we take a look at the Golden Retriever, the average litter size for this dog is 8 puppies. Since this is the average, you will find that each litter is going to be a little bit different when it comes to the Golden Retriever. Some will give birth to as few as four puppies while others may give birth to up to 12 puppies in one litter. Then we can take a look at the Poodle parent as well. The Poodle will have different types of litter sizes based on the type of Poodle that you work with. The Standard Poodle is going to have an average of six puppies. Then the miniature Poodle will have five and the toy Poodle will have between one to three puppies for each litter. Mini Goldendoodles are going to be somewhere in between all of this and the exact amount will depend on the size of the Goldendoodle that you are trying to breed. For example, if you are working with the mini Goldendoodle, they will be able to produce between three to eight puppies in each litter, giving us an average of five puppies. Then there are standard Goldendoodles, which are going to be able to have more puppies per litter, many averaging between 6 to 8 in each litter. Keep in mind that this is not an exact science and there are a number of factors that can happen to determine how many puppies will be born in a litter. For example, the first litter for a female is often going to be smaller in size compared to the following litters. While the older females are often going to produce larger litters, the opposite is going to be said with the father. An older dog might be affected by sperm mobility issues so the dogs will be smaller in the process too. Whether you are just starting out with the Goldendoodle and using the Poodle and Golden Retriever to get this done, or you would like to breed your Goldendoodle, you do not want to start the puppies on their first litter too early. To start, the female dog in the grouping is going to be ready to have babies when she first goes into heat. This will happen sometime between 6 to 12 months of age. Most experts agree that you should not breed them right away. The dog is not prepared to be a parent yet and this can be hard on their body. It is best to do it after the second or third fertile cycle at the earliest before you allow the dog time to mate. This will allow their body to become fully grown and makes it more likely that the dog will be able to handle the pregnancy. For the Golden Retriever parent, it is best that they wait until they reach the age of two before they are used for breeding. This will usually happen around the third heat cycle. This is a pretty common rule for all types of Poodles as well. If you wait until the female is five years old or older, they will generally have smaller litters than doing it before this time. Breeding between the ages of 2 and 5 is often best. While it is technically possible for the female to have puppies each time they go into heat, this is not a good idea. You should not force the dogs to go through one pregnancy after another because this can have some negative health effects for the dog. At most, you can mate the female twice in a row and then give them a few cycles to recover and regain their strength and to prevent issues along the way. If you are ever uncertain about whether it is a good idea to start breeding the dog, it may be a good idea to discuss this with the vet ahead of time to keep your dog healthy. The first step to helping breed your Goldendoodle is making sure that you do not start this process too early for your dog. Once you have decided when to start, it is time to figure out when you should stop breeding the dog. Technically, the female dog in the couple is able to breed and have puppies throughout their whole life. However, this is not something that is recommended. While each dog is going to be a little different, when it comes to the Poodle and the Golden Retriever, it is best to not mate the dog much past the age of 8 at most. The health of your dog should be an important factor to consider if you are worried about when to stop breeding. However, most dog clubs try to provide an incentive to stop you from breeding a dog that is too old. For example, most of the common dog clubs that you can choose from will not register a dog if their mother is older than 8 when they are born. This is done to help discourage continuous breeding up until the time the mother dies. In most dogs, once they reach the age of seven to eight, the pregnancy is going to have more complications. This is going to put the life of the mother in danger and is not that healthy for the dog or their puppies at all. Being careful with breeding when the dog starts to get older is not a good option. If you start to notice that the pregnancy is not going well for your dog or they seem to have a number of other health issues that may affect how well they are able to have puppies, then it is time to stop. The health of the mother always needs to be a top priority to make sure that they do not get sick. Taking care of the mother is a top way to keep the puppies in that litter a little safer as well. Breeding Your Goldendoodle Breeding a Goldendoodle, or their parents to make a Goldendoodle, can be a fun adventure that you are sure to love. This can help you to get some cute puppies that you can use for yourself or you can use to give out and sell to others who would like this kind of dog. No matter the reason for breeding your dog, you need to make sure that you are doing it the right way so that you do not cause any harm to the dog and can help them and their puppies to stay as healthy and happy as possible. These are two great dog breeds. These dogs were originally bred to be service dogs. Goldendoodles are very popular because they are beautiful and graceful. These breeds are playful and active. Goldendoodles are an excellent choice for pets because they are gentle and respectful of their owners. Goldendoodles were bred for the first time in the s and are still considered a young breed. Different physical characteristics distinguish Goldendoodles from other breeds. They have a charming appearance due to their wrinkled coats. They are intelligent and have good memories. They can calm anxious children and are excellent therapy dogs. They can also be very loyal and loving, making them a perfect choice for families with children. No better breed offers companionship, fun, and lots of it than the Goldendoodle. These dogs are energetic and can be very demanding. It is a wise idea to socialize your dog as soon as possible. A common question about standard Goldendoodle ownership is how many puppies can Goldendoodles have? A female Goldendoodle can have between 3 to 8 puppies per litter and as many as two litters in one year. As long as their mental and physical health is good, they can usually do this. This means that all puppies are born simultaneously or on the same bed. A litter is a group of puppies born at once. Is Dog size and breed effective? Because the Goldendoodle is a part Golden Retriever and a Poodle, there are a variety of variations when looking at the kind of Poodle. In addition to the differences in size, their temperament and care are also different. While a Miniature Poodle is a small dog, a Standard Poodle can be warm and welcoming. What factors influence the litter size for Goldendoodles? Genetics is the first. Some Goldendoodles reproduce at high rates, while others have very low rates. This is due to their genetic structure. A Golden Retriever has an average litter of eight puppies. For Poodles, however, it is more complicated. Their size is the most important thing. One to three puppies can be born to a toy Poodle. The bigger the dog, the larger its litter size will be. If your Goldendoodle is tiny, you should expect fewer puppies per litter. For a standard Goldendoodle, the average of 5 puppies per litter is reasonable. Also, the first litter of a female canine is usually the smallest. It will go up for the next litter. A female Goldendoodle can have two litters per year. Their fertility can last up to 8 years. It is most recommended for a female dog to mate before two years old. Five months is the average time for a litter of puppies to be born. What is the best time to start breeding? It is best to wait for the second cycle of fertility to pass, then start breeding. A female should have her first litter within the first two years of her life. This will increase her fertility and litter size. You may like: are huskies dangerous Breeding tips. Knowing the average size of a Goldendoodle litter will help you make informed decisions about breeding programs that will work for your dogs. What problems Impact the size of litter? Numerous elements affect the success of birth and the number of babies. There are a few factors to avoid to have the ideal scenario. Stressful environment: Dogs can feel stress. This could impact the fertility of your dog. As a dog owner, this is unacceptable and is not the behavior of a respected breeder. Genetics: Genetics of breeds can affect the size of litters. As we all know, genetics can often skip a Goldendoodle generation or not appear again. Inbreeding: It is dangerous because of the medical issues it can cause in dogs that are a product of the situation. Many breeders cut corners and run out of unrelated dogs searching for an F1b Goldendoodle or multigene Goldendoodle. This is unacceptable. A reputable breeder cuts NO corners. Goldendoodles fall into this category due to their natural tendencies toward hyperactivity and intelligence. They are perfect family pets as they are highly affectionate, energetic, hypoallergenic, and loyal. While they are young bred, they are gaining increasing popularity. This makes them suitable dogs for breeding. By Dr. Merliza Cabriles, D. Breeding Goldendoodles is both a science and an art. It comes with important and crucial responsibilities. Responsible dog breeders always share an underlying purpose—to improve the breed. This is achieved by making sure that the parents have been tested for specific Goldendoodle health issues , including prenatal checks. Breeding Goldendoodles will entail devoting time to acquiring in-depth knowledge about the breed, including genetic testing and the standards established by the Goldendoodle Association of North America GANA. A responsible Goldendoodle breeder is dedicated to learning about Goldendoodle pregnancy, health, breeding, and raising puppies. Goldendoodle breeders also recognize the importance of attending breed-specific events and establish good relationships with reputable Goldendoodle breeders. How Long Are Goldendoodles Pregnant? The average gestation period of Goldendoodles is 63 days, although it could vary from 58 to 68 days. When calculating the number of days of pregnancy, you should bear in mind that conception is often hard to ascertain. This means the act of mating is not a reliable way to start measuring the gestation period. The gestation period refers to the time between when the fetus was conceived and birth. The gestation period of Goldendoodles may vary if the female has been bred several times or if the eggs are fertilized by the sperm a day or two after mating. It is calculated from the first day of ovulation and not during the day of mating. When Can Goldendoodles Get Pregnant? The minimum age for Goldendoodles to get pregnant is years of age. The maximum is 12 years old. The first heat cycle of female Goldendoodles takes place between 6 and 18 months of age. While they are able to get pregnant at this time, this is not the best time to start breeding your Goldendoodle. When Can Male Goldendoodles Breed? The minimum age that male Goldendoodles can breed is 2 years old. The maximum is 10 to 12 years of age. Once male Goldendoodles become sexually mature, they will be able to mate every day throughout their entire lifetime. The viability and vitality of the sperm can be affected by the aging process, illness, or exposure to toxins. What is the Best Age to Breed a Goldendoodle? Female Goldendoodles can get pregnant throughout their lives. A Goldendoodle can be bred every 6 to 8 months. However, experts recommend letting one heat cycle pass in between each litter to avoid over-breeding your Goldendoodle. The earliest sign of heat in Goldendoodles is swelling or engorgement of the vulva. However, there are female dogs in which the swelling is not as obvious. For some female dogs that are in heat, the vaginal discharge will become apparent several days after heat has begun. The amount of vaginal discharge during heat varies from dog to dog. As the cycle progresses, the color and appearance of the vaginal discharge change. The bloody discharge during the early part of the cycle eventually becomes thin, watery, and light red in color as days pass. How Long is a Goldendoodle in Heat? The estrus cycle of Goldendoodles can vary from weeks with an average of 3 weeks. Morning sickness such as nausea and vomiting is rare but may occur in some dogs around days 21 to 25 as a result of hormonal changes. Signs of pregnancy in Goldendoodles are typically exhibited during the second trimester or during the third week of pregnancy. Have a question for a vet? Click here to live chat instantly with a verified veterinarian! Two to nine days before whelping, milk may be present. Drop in Body Temperature — This usually occurs 24 hours before labor. The normal temperature of Goldendoodles is between .Signs and Stages of True Labor As labor becomes more imminent, the frequency and intensity of the contractions will increase. The dog may not have much of an appetite and her abdomen hardens like a bag of rocks. Nesting may continue and the dog may keep on rearranging the bedding in her whelping box before a puppy is born. What is the Average Whelping Time of a Goldendoodle? So, for a litter of 5, the whelping time normally takes about 5 hours total. What is the Average Goldendoodle Litter Size? The average Goldendoodle litter size is puppies. To learn about responsible Goldendoodle breeding, you should consider becoming a member of the Goldendoodle Association of America , which is the first and only breed club for the Goldendoodle. There are also a large number of Facebook groups where you can connect with and learn from other breeders in your area and across the world. Read More…. This is a subject close to my heart as a breeder of Doodles and a former breeder of Labrador Retrievers. The gestation period is counted from the first day of ovulation rather than the first day of mating as these two dates can differ somewhat. While it used to be believed that a bitch would only mate on the days she was ovulating we now know, thanks to the help of the tools available to us today, that this is not always the case. This means that they ovulate earlier during their heat period than some other breeds and also give birth slightly earlier. Most breeds usually ovulate and are ready to be mated from approximately the fourteenth day of being in heat the first day of the heat period is counted as the first day you see bleeding but I have found with my Goldendoodle girls that they ovulate as early as day .With that in mind, in the early days of my breeding career, before progesterone testing was readily available, if I had used the fourteen-day rule of thumb I may actually have missed my girls ovulating. This means that mating slightly too late does not necessarily mean she will not become pregnant but that she may have a smaller than optimum sized litter. For this reason, we do not allow our bitches to be mated only once — it is important to repeat the mating again 48 hours later meaning a minimum of two matings. If you are taking your girl out to stud, rather than using your own in-house stud, it is particularly important to know when she is ovulating to avoid a wasted journey or wasted mating. Some bitches will stand to be mated slightly before and after ovulating, so allowing the dog to mate her is not indicative of ovulation on its own. I have found this to be especially true of my Goldendoodle girls who always seem keen to mate early in their heat periods. In addition to ovulating early in their cycle, I have also found that my girls give birth earlier than other breeds, generally giving birth on day 61 of their pregnancy rather than day 63 or 64 when my bitches of other breeds delivered their litters. I have found this to be true not only of my own Goldendoodle bitches but also of the bitches that have been brought in to be mated by my stud dogs. There are several ways we can confirm pregnancy in our Goldendoodle bitch starting from day 21 after ovulation. Many breeders also report a clear mucous discharge from the vulva at around this time. From day 28 you can have an ultrasound examination to confirm pregnancy however this is not a reliable way to ascertain litter size and bitches can also reabsorb fetuses even after this point. From roughly the fifth week after mating, however, you should be able to tell just by looking that your girl is indeed pregnant. I always notice that her rib cage looks wider when viewed from above at this stage. You will often find that her appetite increases around this time too. During the last two weeks of gestation, your vet can carry out an x-ray to check the number of pups that your bitch is expecting. This is more accurate at this point as calcification will have occurred and a good radiographer and often an experienced breeder can count the number of skulls and spines seen. Before even considering breeding from your Goldendoodle bitch there are a number of checks that should be carried out. No vet is needed for genetic testing as this is done via cheek swabs which are sent away to a laboratory; however, this takes several weeks. Assuming all these checks are OK before actually mating you must ensure that your girl is up to date with vaccinations, worming, and flea treatment and have her checked over by a vet to confirm that she is in perfect health and fit for breeding. Once she is actually pregnant apart from the confirmation of pregnancy, she should need no further pre-natal checks. Average Litter Size of a Goldendoodle Like most large breeds, Goldendoodles do tend to have large litters. The average litter size is 8 to 11 puppies. In my own personal experience, this has proved to be true with my smallest litter being ten pups and my largest thirteen. Goldendoodles are generally great mums and my girls have raised their litters beautifully and I have not had to assist with feeding, even with my largest litter. Can There Be Any Outside Impacts on Gestation Period Generally, if a bitch is having a smaller litter of four or fewer pups, she is more likely to give birth later than expected compared with a bitch having a larger litter. However, usually not by more than a day or two. Pups born seven days or more before their due date have a very low chance of survival, but this is thankfully a rare occurrence. If a bitch experiences trauma or contracts an infection during her pregnancy this can also cause early onset of labor or even abortion, so it is important to protect the pregnancy by ensuring the bitch is in optimum health and kept in suitably clean conditions. It is wise to avoid any unnecessary veterinary drugs or exposure to chemicals during her pregnancy. Your bitch will need to be wormed during pregnancy but make sure to use products specifically for use during pregnancy to avoid damage to the unborn pups. What is the Average Whelping Time? However, I have found that for a normal-sized litter 8 to 11 pups it usually takes on average around 8 — 10 hours for all pups to be born. Usually, once pushing starts the first few pups are born in relatively quick succession, but this slows down somewhat towards the end of delivery. This is caused by several things. There is no need to panic so long as the bitch is not distressed or actively pushing for over an hour without delivering a pup. The normal temperature is to .Once you observe this temperature drop it is vital to stay by her side. As labor progresses the bitch will pant and become restless often becoming stressed if you leave her even to pop to the toilet. She will start to dig, especially out in the yard so make sure you accompany her on toilet breaks. She may also have diarrhea or vomit. This is the time to encourage her to move to her whelping box. Tips on Caring for Your Goldendoodle During the Gestation Period During the gestation period, it is important that your Goldendoodle is kept in the very best of health. Make sure she has plenty of high-quality food, puppy food, or a complete raw diet are best and let her eat as much as she likes. Exercise is also important as a fit bitch will have an easier delivery. My own girls usually continue their daily walks right up until the day before delivery. Start worming the bitch on day 40 of her pregnancy with a pregnancy-safe product at the correct dose for her weight and continue this until two days post whelp.
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miniature british bulldog puppies for sale - Written by Sydney Heupel A poodle feeding chart is the perfect tool to help you keep your furry friend healthy and happy! Knowing how much food to give them, what kind of food to feed them, and when they should eat it can be a tough job. As always, discuss the best diet regimen with your vet before making any major changes. Poodle Feeding Requirements Poodle feeding requirements vary based on the size and age of the dog. Smaller Poodles, such as toy or miniature varieties, should be fed smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. Larger Poodles may need larger portions spread out over two or three feedings per day. The same is true for puppies versus adult dogs; puppy portion sizes should be adjusted accordingly. In addition to this, high-quality proteins are essential in order to provide your pup with all the necessary amino acids they need to grow healthy and strong! Omega fatty acids found in fish oils help keep their coat looking shiny and healthy too! Feeding time should always be supervised by an adult so that only designated food items are eaten by your poodle — no human snacks allowed here! How Much to Feed a Poodle Poodles are highly active dogs that require ample amounts of nutrition to stay healthy and happy. Feeding a poodle the correct amount is essential for maintaining their wellbeing. When determining how much to feed your poodle, it is important to consider their age, size, activity level and health condition. Generally speaking puppies should be fed three times per day while adult poodles should have two meals per day. Additionally, if your dog is overweight you may need to reduce their portions slightly. Lastly, always make sure freshwater is readily available for optimal hydration levels! Best Dog Food for Poodles When it comes to selecting the best food for Poodles, there are several important factors to consider. It should provide balanced nutrition with plenty of protein from animal sources and the right amount of healthy fats plus complex carbohydrates. Avoid processed foods with too much sugar or preservatives as these can be unhealthy for your pup. You also need to factor in any existing health conditions like allergies or sensitivities which may require alternative ingredients such as sweet potato or oatmeal instead of grain-based fillers. When preparing homemade meals for your poodle it is important to remember that dogs require certain nutrients in order for them to stay healthy. Animal proteins such as poultry or fish should be included in each meal along with complex carbohydrates like brown rice or barley. Additionally some health experts recommend adding omega fatty acids from sources like salmon oil or flaxseed oil for optimal health benefits. It is equally important to remember that there are items which should never be fed to a poodle including onions, garlic, chocolate and grapes which could cause serious illness if ingested by your pet. Be sure when formulating the recipe you take into account any allergies or dietary restrictions your pup may have before giving them the meal so that you do not unknowingly put their health at risk! Benefits of Proper Nutrition for Poodles Poodles require specific nutrition to reach their maximum potential and stay healthy. Proper nutrition for poodles is essential in order to ensure they have a long and happy life. Proper nutrition also supports cognitive development and keeps their energy levels up throughout the day. Calcium from dairy products or supplements helps maintain joint health while other nutrients like phosphorus support cellular growth in bone tissue. Weight control: Feeding your poodle the right amounts of good quality food will help them maintain a healthy weight which reduces stress on their skeleton due to excess body fat accumulation — especially important for toy breeds such as Poodles who are prone to obesity if not monitored closely! Longer lifespan: Quality dog foods contain ingredients specifically designed to promote longevity by providing all the nourishment needed for a well functioning body systems over time with minimal supplementation required. This means less visits and costs at the vet later down the track! Creating a Balanced Diet Plan for Your Poodle Creating a balanced diet plan for your Poodle is an essential part of keeping them healthy and happy. The best way to achieve this is by understanding the nutritional needs of your pet, as well as the different foods available. Generally speaking though, most poodles should eat two or three meals per day consisting primarily of high quality proteins such as poultry, fish or lean meat along with carbohydrates such as rice or pasta and fresh vegetables. Fruits are also nutritious additions that can be included occasionally in moderation but should never replace any other food groups from their diet. Providing balanced nutrition will give them energy throughout the day while helping them stay fit and active throughout their lifetime! Sample Weekly Meal Plans for Adult and Puppy Poodles Poodles are a highly intelligent and active breed that require plenty of food to stay healthy. Including several meals throughout the day will ensure your adult and puppy poodle is getting enough nutrients for their individual needs. For adult poodles, our recommended weekly meal plan includes two full meals per day, followed by snacks in between if desired. A high-quality protein source should be the main focus of each meal such as chicken or fish. For additional nutrition, consider adding vegetables like kale or carrots along with complex carbohydrates like brown rice or oats. Supplementing with probiotics can also help promote better digestion over time while providing beneficial vitamins and minerals to keep your poodle feeling energetic all week long! As puppies grow quickly into adulthood, they need more frequent feedings than adults do… typically three times a day including breakfast lunch and dinner until they reach twelve months old when they may downsize to twice daily feedings instead. Puppies may also benefit from supplements specifically formulated for growing dogs, but always consult your veterinarian before starting any supplementation regimen with your pup! At the end of the day, proper nutrition is key when it comes to keeping both adult and puppy Poodles healthy, so creating weekly meal plans that include variety helps ensure their nutritional needs are met every single week! Related posts:. Some final words There is a little bit of leeway in their feeding schedule as all standard poodles are not the same. Each individual dog will require different amounts of food at different times of the day. The following information is a guideline as there is no set rule on when or how much to feed your pet each day. Before they are 6 months of age, you can feed your little pet up to 4 to 5 times. After they reach the age of 6 months, you can lower that total to 3 times every day. Just because you serve them multiple times throughout the day, it does not mean their serving size is huge. You are looking at feeding your puppy about 2 cups of dog food each day. This serving size can be equally measured out so that your little feller or gal gets enough food at each meal. It will take a little research to find the perfect food for your pet. If you are in doubt, you can always ask your vet what is the best type of dog food to use. The key to feeding your dog its food is that you cannot change it from week to week or day to day. You must pick one and stick with that brand. Changing the food often and without mixing it with their old dog food will upset their stomachs and cause accidents to happen. If you are worried about the number of calories your puppy is eating, those are listed on the side of the package under the heading kcal. Just look at the number next to that box to get the actual number of calories your dog is receiving. Also, the amount of food you feed your pet depends on how active they are. If they are not very active you can cut their portions down a little bit. This will help avoid your pet from becoming overweight. If he or she is very active, then you should feed them a little bit more food than the recommended amount. Puppy Food Tips There are some guidelines to help you find the right pet food for your puppy. Here are a few of those guidelines to direct your search: 1. Try to Avoid Fillers and Additives- Look for those options that contain more meat and vegetables 2. Grains are Good- Unless your vet recommends against it. Grains help your pet have more energy. Be Heavy on Glucosamine and Chondroitin- These ingredients will help your pet if it has a family history of dysplasia or joint problems. Make Sure the First Ingredient is Meat- The first ingredient tells you that it is the dominant ingredient and the more meat the better for your puppy. Look for Vegetables as Well- These ingredients provide needed nutrients your puppy needs to grow healthy. Provide a Mix- A little wet food on the dry dog food will help your picky eater build their teeth and get needed nutrients. Wet food alone will not do this but it does help with dry dog food consumption. What Foods Not to Feed Your Poodle There are some ingredients you should avoid so that your puppy gets the healthiest meal possible. MSG- It is not good for humans, and it is not good for pets. In fact, not only can it give you a UTI, it can do the same for your dog. Artificial Colors and Preservatives- These are hard to avoid but try if you can. Foods with Animal By-Products- The reason to avoid this ingredient is that you do not know where those by-products came from. Some final words Be careful when you feed your pet. There is always the danger of over-feeding them. If they act like they are always hungry, give them something else to do. They could have just arrived in your home, have a toothache, upset stomach , or they do not like the taste of the food. When you give your pet a bone, there is always a chance that bacteria may be on it. So be careful when raw feeding your pet any food item. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Eagle Pack Holistic These standard poodle dog foods contain ingredients that are not of questionable origin. These dog foods are not likely to cause allergies in your standard poodle. They also contain all the nutrients that your standard poodle needs to properly grow. Particularly, I feed my Standard poodle the Taste of the Wild. This is the best food for Standard Poodle based on my experience and my research. Taste of the Wild does not trigger allergies in my standard poodle. Also, I have had no problems feeding my poodle the Taste of the Wild. Also, her coat has always been smooth and shiny, and her poop does not get watery. She has always been in good health. Check out the price of Taste of the Wild here on Amazon. But you should feed your standard poodle the oldest food bag in your stock. This is because sometimes accidents happen, and dog food gets recalled if the food is found to be harmful. By having an extra bag of old dog food in stock, you will always be a step ahead of a dog food recall. How Many Times to Feed a Standard Poodle in a Day Standard poodles should be fed two times a day at scheduled times rather than having food available to them all the time. This is because standard poodles can sometimes be picky eaters. If a picky eater knows that food is always available, the picky eater will even be pickier. However, if your standard poodle knows that his or her food is available at particular times of the day, then your standard poodle will be motivated to eat his or her food on a schedule. Another reason to feed a standard poodle twice a day is that most breeders are of the opinion that feeding a standard poodle twice a day on a schedule helps reduce the chances of your standard poodle developing a fatal illness called bloat Gastro Dilation Volvulus. Bloat occurs when the stomach of a standard poodle accidentally twists. Bloat, when it occurs, escalates really fast and it can kill a standard poodle in less than one hour. Another way to prevent your standard poodle from developing bloat is not to feed them immediately after they exercise rigorously. Wait for an hour after your poodle exercises before giving your poodle food. Also, do not let your standard poodle drink too much water before or after food. To learn how much water a standard poodle needs, check out our article on how much water poodles need. When we humans eat a balanced diet, we get the nutrition our bodies require from a variety of nutritionally packed foods. Our pets also have those needs; however, those needs are much simpler and do not include our human foods. Pets require a specific amount of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and minerals as well as vitamins to keep them healthy and happy — just like we do — but their diets must be very different from ours. When it comes to our furry friends, we have no need to prepare special recipes or worrying about bioavailability. Conclusion I hope you have learned enough to help you decide on what to feed a standard poodle, how much and many times to feed a standard poodle in a day. I hope our standard poodle feeding chart and feeding calculator will help you properly feed your standard poodle. As your Toy Poodle puppy is maturing and growing, it is crucial to provide it with the proper diet and our Toy Poodle feeding chart will help you. This comprehensive manual is packed with advice that will assist you in providing appropriate portions. Provide a healthy and well-balanced diet tailored to the specific requirements of your Toy Poodle puppy. Until they are six months old, Toy Poodle puppies should eat three or four small meals a day. The six-month mark marks the time when you should begin reducing their daily intake to two meals. Toy Poodle Feeding Chart RER is the amount of energy a Toy Poodle puppy needs at rest to keep their vital organs working, including their respiratory system, digestive system, and cardiovascular system. Hence, your Toy Poodle puppy would require about calories per day in order to keep its body running normally while at rest. You should talk to your vet about how much food and how many calories your Toy Poodle puppy needs. Begin feeding your dog wet puppy chow and other solid foods around week 5. Have patience as your dog undergoes the transition to a new diet. Provide quarter cup of food at each of three to four meals a day. Maintain a regular feeding schedule, and transition your puppy to a dry kibble diet. Keep an eye out for signs of diarrhea and make sure they have plenty of water. Provide plenty water and keep an eye out for symptoms of food intolerance or gastrointestinal distress. It may be beneficial to eat only twice or three times a day instead of six or seven times a day. Maintain a steady supply of fresh water and watch for signs of diarrhea or weight gain. Toy Poodle puppies require a high-quality meal that has been developed just for them. Keep an eye out for symptoms of bloating, gas, or constipation. You should start transitioning your Toy Poodle to an adult diet as soon as possible. Keep an eye out for any signs of bloating, gas, or an allergy. Never stop providing a healthy, age-appropriate diet and plenty of fresh water. Maintain a healthy, age-appropriate diet while keeping an eye out for tummy troubles, allergies, or excess weight gain. Toy Poodles are prone to being overweight, so take care not to overfeed or underfeed them. You should feed them twice a day, each time with about a half cup to three quarters of a cup of food. Adjust feeding amounts based on indicators of gastrointestinal distress, food allergies, or weight gain. High-quality protein, vital fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals are all components of a healthy diet. A 4-pound Toy Poodle puppy would need roughly calories per day, or calories per pound of body weight. Their calorie requirements will rise as they get taller. Try to eat meat, fish, and eggs as protein sources. Puppies need DHA and other essential fatty acids for proper brain and eye development. Before they reach about six months of age, Toy Poodle puppies should be fed three to four small meals every day. Take into account their age, and degree of activity when determining the appropriate portion size for their meals. To find out how much food your puppy should be eating, talk to your vet. You should also provide your puppy access to clean water at all times and steer clear of feeding it any human food or table scraps to prevent them from becoming overweight or nutritionally deficient. Kibble vs Wet Food For Toy Poodle Puppies Puppy kibble and wet food are both good options for feeding your toy poodle, but they are not identical. Kibble is practical since it can be stored easily and it helps maintain dental health by stimulating jaw movement and cleaning teeth. Nevertheless, puppies of the toy poodle breed may have trouble chewing and digesting this food if they have dental problems or a sensitive stomach. Conversely, wet food may be more appealing to fussy eaters because of its quicker digestion and higher moisture content. More moisture is provided, which is great for toy poodles because they often become dehydrated. It can get pricey and go bad rapidly if left out for too long. Toy poodle puppies can do well on either dry kibble or wet food, or a mix of the two, but the best option will ultimately depend on your dog and his or her preferences and dietary needs. The changeover is expected to take around a week. As the puppy becomes older, they can transition to adult food by eating a combination of the two, with the amount of adult food increasing as the puppy food decreases. You should also be sure to provide your toy poodle with high-quality adult dog food. There are a number of potential causes if your Toy Poodle puppy is not eating. Puppies often lose their appetite at times of rapid development, teething, or stress. But, if your puppy refuses to eat for more than a day, you should take him to the vet to rule out any serious health problems. If your dog is picky eater, consider breaking up their meals into several smaller servings and giving them more often. You may also try moistening their kibble with warm water or chicken broth. You should also make sure your puppy gets lots of activity and drinks plenty of water. Toy poodle puppies, should not be freefed, or let to graze on food left out all day. Puppies have special dietary demands that must be met in order to guarantee they grow and develop normally. Overeating, obesity, and behavioral issues including food guarding and hostility are all possible outcomes of a freefeeding regime. Providing your toy poodle puppy with measured meals at set times throughout the day is advised. This will control their eating habits and make sure they have enough to eat to be healthy. This dry dog food is made for developing puppies who like smaller kibble. DHA from fish oil promotes brain, vision, and learning health. An antioxidant and vitamin E and C mix also boosts immunity. Pros DHA from fish oil for brain and eyes Healthy immune system form antioxidant and vitamin E and C No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives Comprehensive and Balanced Nutrition 2. For If you have a small-breed puppy like the Toy Poodle, this is the perfect supper for them. This dry dog food is designed for your growing small-breed pup. The first ingredient, farm-raised chicken, delivers quality protein to help your little companion grow strong muscles. It contains 22 essential nutrients, including omega-3 DHA, which improves cognition and makes your pup smarter and more trainable. However, you should keep the intervals between meals similar. Best Dog Foods for Poodles To keep your dog healthy and happy, choose the right food. A feeding guide should include the best food to feed your dog, whether raising a puppy or caring for an older companion. Poodle owners have several choices when it comes to feeding their pets. They can buy commercial dog food, prepare a homemade diet of raw food or raw meat, or opt for a combination of the two as the best food for their pup. Poodle Homemade Food: A homemade diet can provide your dog with all the nutrients it needs, as long as you know what to include in a balanced meal. You can consider giving ingredients like grain-free foods for those with a sensitive stomach. You may also feed a Poodle puppy sweet potato or add cooked meats to their diet. Biologically Appropriate Raw Food Diet BARF : BARF , also known as raw diet or raw feeding, is a type of diet that mainly consists of raw meats, eggs, crushed bones, fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and other natural ingredients. If feeding raw food is done correctly, it can be very healthy for your puppies and adult dogs since it is free from preservatives. Consulting an experienced vet is strongly recommended when looking for the best diet for your Poodle. Sometimes, they get curious too. If you love coffee, keep it out of reach of your Poodle. It contains caffeine , which may cause high blood pressure, stomach upset, and heart problems. Another human food that should not be a part of your puppy food is chocolate. Theobromine , found in chocolate, can cause abnormal heartbeats, seizures , and even death in your puppy or adult dog if consumed. Toy, Mini, and Standard Poodles can also be harmed by gum, peanut butter, and candy containing xylitol. This can cause disorientation , hypoglycemia , seizures, and collapse. Most kinds of toothpaste also contain xylitol, so make sure not to drop any on the floor when you brush your teeth. A small amount can be fatal to your Poodle. Moreover, it is not advised to feed your Poodle avocado or cherries. The pits, skins, and leaves of avocados contain a toxin called persin. It is essential to always check the food label on any treats or ingredients to avoid giving toxic foods to your pets. Additionally, do not feed your puppy too fast and too much as it can result in bloating. You should also consult a vet if you have questions about safe human and puppy foods to ensure they live a long life. Start by adding more of the new food and eliminating some old food at each meal until your pet eats only the new food. This also applies when you switch from puppy to adult food. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. They may also learn how to walk for the first time so be sure to place their food or drink bowl within short distances. However, not all puppies are the same and it depends on various factors. As with all puppies, your Standard Poodle pup should be dewormed and vaccinated during this period. After the weaning process has finished, they can be separated from their mother and sent off to a new home. Socialization is, therefore, crucial in this period to avoid behavioral problems. They might need obedience training and they also need a proper schedule for feeding to avoid obesity and begging behaviors. Keep in mind, though, that this might also result in the puppy eating much more than they did before. Ready some stock food! They might not play around as much when compared to their puppy days. Recommended Food Are you having trouble with choosing the right food for your Spoo pup? Choose puppy food without additives or fillers A Standard Poodle puppy will benefit more from a puppy food that has no fillers or additives. We recommend getting organic puppy food instead of commercial brands because they have more meat and veggie content rather than just fillers. Foods rich in glucosamine and chondroitin You will find these in fishes like animal bones and seafood. First-ingredient meat Among the most common meat choices for puppies include chicken, beef, turkey, and even salmon and whitefish. Look for these as the first ingredient of your Standard Poodle puppy food. In the wild, after all, they tend to eat a bit of grass. They get tasty food and strong teeth as a result. Here are the foods to avoid for them: 1. Fortunately, there are many alternatives to wheat that can be a source of carbohydrates, such as quinoa and oatmeal mentioned above. We will try our best to answer the most common ones below: Help! My Standard Poodle is still hungry! What should I do? Begging behaviors are sometimes caused by infrequent feeding or too much free time on their hands. Perhaps you can try to increase the feedings per day? A Standard Poodle puppy is very likely to get obese compared to other breeds so always restrict their diet in the right way. Obesity in Poodles also comes with all sorts of health issues, such as joint dysplasia, heart problems, sore backs, and tummy aches. You can try using a slow feeder discussed below or a puzzle feeder to help your Standard Poodle puppy slow down in terms of feeding. Likewise, you can also ask your veterinarian for an expert opinion. They might give your Standard Poodle puppy a recommended diet plan to avoid overeating and excessive begging habits. Any puppy not eating for a while is usually okay as it might just be stressed or full. But there are also times when not eating for a long time will make you panic. Here are the most common reasons why your Standard Poodle puppy loses appetite: 1. They just moved in Anxiety can cause any puppy to not feel well, which will result in loss of appetite. If you think about it, bad breakups and troubles with friends, family, and finances also make you not want to eat sometimes, right? They have a toothache Dental issues are also a factor that could make your Standard Poodle puppy lose their appetite. Get your puppy to a vet if you suspect that they have abnormally bad breath as that could be a sign of teeth problems. They have a bad stomach Perhaps your Standard Poodle puppy ate something bad? Talk to your vet right away if you suspect that your pup has some sort of digestive issue, which can usually be examined through their stools. To avoid your puppy getting a bad stomachache, you should be careful when feeding them new food. They might not like the food A Standard Poodle puppy can be a picky eater, much like all other Poodle types. Most pet owners like to mix part dry and part wet food, as well as some home-cooked meals and raw meats in the dish. This might attract your puppy to eat. However, keep in mind that raw feeding should be done properly to avoid bacterial contamination in meat. Most pet owners who start out feeding raw only tend to focus on the meat side, leaving behind certain vegetables and whatnot. Always make sure that your Standard Poodle pup gets balanced nutrition and research first on raw feeding before you begin. Slow-feeding a Standard Poodle puppy As mentioned above, a Standard Poodle puppy has a high risk for obesity due to quickly eating. In this case, a slow feeder can work well. Slow feeder bowls are available in the market and your local pet store — their job is to make your puppy work harder to get their food rather than gobbling it all at once. Aside from that, a puzzle feeder for your Standard Poodle pup works similarly but also adds a fun factor to their food. This will be easier for them to chew and swallow than large pieces of kibble. Weight ranges can vary quite considerably, so some puppies will naturally need a lot more food than others. One way you can adjust your meal sizes is by working with your veterinarian. If you struggle to feel any definition, your puppy could benefit from smaller meal sizes. But, if their ribs are very prominent, they could benefit from slightly larger meal sizes. You should always work with your vet when adjusting meal sizes to ensure that everything is done in a safe and healthy way. But, since Poodles have so much curly fur, seeing them can be hard even if they are overly prominent! As they get a little older, this can decrease to 3 meals. And, when your puppy is at their adult size, this can decrease to two meals per day. How to Choose the Best Puppy Food? There are a lot of commercial options to choose from when searching for the best Poodle puppy food. You will find dry options, wet food, grain free varieties, limited ingredient recipes, and more. Some owners even choose to make homemade meals for their dogs, or raw diets. However, homemade diets are more likely to be nutritionally imbalanced, which can lead to health problems. Commercial food brands offer a lot of choice. There are pros and cons to every food type, so it can also help to speak to your veterinarian. For instance, wet food is often the most palatable, but it can be hard to use in training and has a shorter expiry date than other types. Grain free food is associated with some health-related concerns, but studies have determined the need for more research into a link, and this food type can be better for puppies with allergies. And, kibble food is easy to store and use during training, but can contain unwanted ingredients, like unnecessary fillers. Slowly substitute in your new food over the course of a week, until the old food is completely removed. Doing this too quickly can result in stomach upset and digestive issues. You will also need to transition to an adult food variety when your puppy has stopped growing. Toy Poodles will often finish growing somewhere between 6 and 8 months. Miniature Poodles can take between 8 and 12 months. And Standard Poodles can take up to 18 months. The transition to an adult food should also be gradual, taking space over the course of a week. Is My Poodle a Healthy Weight? However, all Poodles are different. They will grow at different rates and will have different healthy adult weights. They will be able to help you make any suitable adjustments if your puppy needs to increase or decrease their weight to remain healthy. Obesity and excess weight can cause and worsen some serious health problems in our pet dogs. They can help to adjust meal sizes where necessary. And, they can look for any underlying causes to high appetite levels in your Poodle. This often happens when people first bring their puppy home, leading to panic and stress! However, puppies can also feel stress and fear when moving to their new homes. And, this can cause a loss of appetite. Or, if they think something better might be on offer. For instance, if you tend to feed them table scraps, they might leave their food to try and get more tasty treats. Doing so will prevent obesity and weight gain. Completing all of your training in the morning will pose the same problems as feeding your puppy a very large meal first thing in the morning. Another benefit of this is that your puppy will be extra hungry and motivated to work for their food if training is before each mealtime. How Much to Feed a Poodle Puppy — A Summary All Poodles are different from one another, so the amount of food they need each day and at individual meal times will vary. But, they usually need some adjusting. Have you got any tips for raising a healthy Poodle puppy? Let us know in the comments! Readers Also Liked. Category : Puppies When you take your puppy home usually around weeks of age they will need to eat 3 or 4 times a day. At 8 weeks old we feed small meals 4 times a day at 7 am, 11 am, 2 pm and then at 5 pm. We allow them free access to water until 7 pm in the evening. An alternative is to feed 3 times a day at 7 am, 12 noon and at 5 pm. If your puppy is hungry split the meals to 4 times a day. By the time they are 10 weeks old they can go to 3 meals a day. If your puppy feels thin you can feel all the ribs and backbone easily increase the amount of food. If your puppy feels fat you should be able to feel some of the ribs reduce the amount of food. Some puppies are very active and burn up every calorie they eat, some are prone to being a little rounder and their food intake needs to be carefully monitored. Research has shown that dogs that are not overfeed have a much lower risk of developing hip dysplasia. Keep your puppy thin and healthy. We do not recommend free feeding of puppies as this makes it more difficult to housebreak your poodle and regulate their diet. Better to move to free feeding after housebreaking if you choose to. It is harder to monitor how much food they eat when free feeding and a glutunous puppy may quickly become fat. Remember a thin puppy is less likely to develop hip dysplasia. We strongly encourage you to keep your puppy on the same food we provide for the first month. Both coccidia and giardia may live in the gut of a healthy poodle and they never have an outbreak. When their bodies are stressed they are more likely to develop an unhealthy balance and the result may be a sick puppy. Moving to a new home, leaving their Mother and siblings and diet changes are all stressful. We encourage you to make as few changes as possible to your puppies diet the first month. Changing to a different dog food — go slowly. It may take a month or longer to switch foods. If at any point your puppy develops an upset stomach go back to the level of food mix that they were doing well on. Should your puppy develop bloody diarrhea take them to the veterinarian, they have most likely developed gastroenteritis and may need some medication or possibly fluids. Go slowly, new protein sources require time for the stomach to adjust. This is true not only in puppies but also adults. We continue to feed our puppies 3 meals a day until they are 6 months old. Our belief is that in keeping food moving through the puppy it allows for better consistent growth and health. At 6 months of age we start to feed 2 times a day with snacks throughout the day. We continue to feed our dogs 2 times a day throughout their life. We feed snacks several times a day to both puppies and adults which may be carrots, green beans, eggs or chicken or pieces of their kibble. We feed our poodles both kibble and home cooked food. Bully sticks are given occasionally for chewing. No Comments.