owning a goldendoodle puppy

Welcome to our website! A photo of Rocky, the best Boxer ever, and the one who started it all! We are a family owned operation that breeds champion bloodline AKC Boxer puppies. Our objective is to produce the highest quality puppies, for family pets and companions. We do not offer nor do we guarantee our puppies for show or breeding, instead we would rather they be considered by the people that adopt them as family members, preferably as children! Our love for Boxers came about after we welcomed our first Boxer Rocky into our home. He is an amazing dog, and has been the backbone of our program, providing many of the adult Boxers that we have today. Although he is no longer used for breeding, his amazing personality seems to be what everyone we encounter is looking for in a Boxer. It's no accident that we chose to keep his puppies, they have the same laid-back and relaxed personalities as Rocky. We are vigilant to assure that our puppies are the finest available, we use the best technology to closely monitor the mother and her babies for the first eight weeks. We work with and handle the puppies daily, pampering them helps to create superior emotional health. Three days after birth dew claws are removed and tails are docked by a licensed veterinarian. Vaccinations and deworming is completed utilizing a strict program, all documentation is provided. Pre-crate training begins at six weeks of age. Puppies are socialized with adult dogs and other animals, such as cats at an early age. All trademarks and copyrights on this page are owned by their respective owners. All else Copyright Riverhillboxers. All Rights Reserved. White Boxer Dogs Overview Regrettably, some people still believe that white Boxer dogs or puppies are the least favorable of the breed. Some will argue that those dogs born white are more prone to illness or more aggressive than the other more traditionally colored dogs of the breed. Some think that they have a different set of personality traits and will show different behavior than more traditionally colored dogs. For those of us who are lucky enough to love a white Boxer puppy.This simply could not be further from the truth. There is a lot of false information that can easily be found.So, let's clear this up by looking at the facts. While each dog is an individual and has his or her own personalty quirks, in general, white Boxer dogs will behave exactly like most other more traditionally colored pups and dogs. There is no set change in disposition, aggressiveness or any other trait. Most, if not all Boxers are comical, fun loving and expressive animals with a strong craving to please their owners. They are excellent companions, family pets and enjoy the company of their humans. A white Boxer dog is not automatically ill or blind or has eye issues.In some cases, color can go back as far as 5 generations. Both of the parents must carry the genetic code white. In every way the puppy is the same as all of its siblings…with all the liveliness, traits, and spirit that make them Boxers. A white Boxer is not an albino. Albinos entirely lack pigment. Any dog breed will infrequently have an albino…although it is very rare. When a dog is an albino there is no colored pigmentation anywhere on the dog…They have pink eyes, and a complete lack of color anywhere on the body. Most white Boxer dogs have some spots on their skin which can be seen due to their short coats and have some markings around their nose and mouth. Some have colored markings in their coat such as brown spots around an eye or on the back, etc. They will have pigment in their eyes, this alone rules out albinism as the cause of their whiteness. Approximately one in four puppies are white either all white or majorly white. Therefore, this is not a rare color. Because of this limitation, white Boxer dogs do not meet the breed standard for show conformation. Many breeders and handlers hope that this changes. White Boxers, as beautiful as they are, may someday be accepted for conformation in AKC show events. There are breeders and people in the general public who feel that white Boxer dogs are inferior to fawn or brindled colored Boxers and have more health problems. .Recently, there has been more studies to either substantiate or dissuade the claims that white Boxers are more prone to problems than standard colors. The only claims that seem to have merit are: They are more likely to sunburn And the white Boxer like many other breeds with similar loss of pigment are more prone to deafness in one or both ears. They are not rare -Approximately 25 percent of all boxers born are white. They are not albinos — They have colored eyes, colored touch, inside of the ears, belly and bottom of the paws. They can sunburn easy — an owner should use human sunscreen on their dog if they are to be outside for more than 30 minutes — And remember that the UV sun rays CAN penetrate through clouds, so it is better to be safe than sorry. They can be deaf and this is one of the biggest reasons why most breeders do not purposefully breed for the white color. Blindness is a bit more common with the white Boxer. Some people believe that white Boxers develop cancer more easily than the more standard colored dogs ; however this is still up for debate and has not been proven. The AKC will deny registration for any puppies born to a registered white Boxer. They have the same temperament and personality as other Boxers. .They are happy, loyal, social, friendly dogs when raised in a loving, appropriate home. The white Boxer may have pigmented patches around the eyes and ears and other limited points on the body, but the Check has much more pigment and could be called piebald .A flashy Boxer is one who carries one dose of the gene. An albino Boxer dog would have no color on the skin as well; the eye rims, nose, bottom of the paw pads , and lips would be pink. In addition, most albino dogs have very light eyes. White Boxers, on the other hand, will have some skin pigmentation. Typically, the nose is black, as are the lips. Eye rims and paw pads can be black. Please note that very young Boxer puppies often have pink noses. So, if you have an all white Boxer newborn puppy and the nose is pink, this is not an indication of abinism. Over the of the next few weeks, nose color should come in. Final nose coloring may be fully black or spotted. Many wonder if a Boxer puppy is born deaf or becomes deaf. With all puppies, the ear canal stays closed and will open between days 10 and .A white Boxer - if he is to be deaf - will progressively lose his hearing. The cause of the deafness connected with the white color is the absence of pigment cells in the inner ear resulting in a loss of sensory hair cells at about 6 - 8 weeks of age. For this reason, potential puppy buyers may want to wait until the 10 week old mark, at which time it should be clear as to whether or not the Boxer has his hearing. The shortage or absence of pigment cells is also the cause of the white coat and un-pigmented third eyelids called the haw. In general the more pigment in the coat the lower will be the risk of deafness, but all predominantly white dogs are at risk of being deaf, not just the Boxer breed. Please note however that not all white dogs are white because of a lack of pigment cells. Some breeds such as the West Highlands and Poodles just have extremely diluted pigmentation; they have a full complement of pigment cells, so are not at risk of being deaf. There are of course many other causes of deafness in dogs. Not all are attributable to the absence of pigment cells. And deafness can be caused by external factors too. Tia and Dyson, both 8 years old Photo courtesy of Birgitta Woolmer. Further information: Bullenbeisser Friedrich Robert and his boxer, The Boxer is a hunting mastiff developed in Germany in the late 19th century from the now extinct Bullenbeisser , a dog of English Mastiff descent, and Bulldogs brought in from Great Britain. Its task was to seize the prey and hold it until the hunters arrived. In later years, faster dogs were favored and a smaller Bullenbeisser was bred in Brabant , in northern Belgium. The Brabanter Bullenbeisser is generally accepted as being a direct ancestor of today's Boxer. The club went on to publish the first Boxer breed standard in , a detailed document that has not been changed much since. During World War I , the Boxer was co-opted for military work, acting as a valuable messenger dog, pack carrier, attack dog , and guard dog. Taken home by returning soldiers, the dog was introduced to a wider audience and soon became a favorite as a companion, a show dog, and a guard dog. Boxer early genealogy chart Flocki, the first Boxer German citizen George Alt, a Munich resident, mated a brindle-colored female dog imported from France named Flora with a local dog of unknown ancestry, known simply as "Boxer", resulting in a fawn-and-white male, named Lechner's Box after its owner. This dog was mated with his own dam, Flora, and one of his offspring was a female called Alt's Schecken. George Alt mated Schecken with a Bulldog named Dr. Flocki was the first Boxer to enter the German Stud Book after winning the aforementioned show for St. Bernards in Munich , which was the first event to have a class specific for Boxers. Blanka von Angertor, Flocki's sister, was even more influential when mated with Piccolo von Angertor Lechner's Box grandson to produce the predominantly white particolored female dog Meta von der Passage, which, even bearing little resemblance with the modern Boxer standard early photographs depict her as too long, weak-backed, and down-faced , is considered the mother of the breed. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white particolor, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing female, few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day pedigrees. Combined with Wotan and Mirzl children, they made the Boxer. Breed name[ edit ] The name "Boxer" is supposedly derived from the breed's tendency to play by standing on its hind legs and " boxing " with its front paws. Brace's Pet Owner's Guide to the Boxer, this theory is the least plausible explanation. At that time, the spelling "baxer" equalled "boxer". Both the verb boxen [English "to box, to punch, to jab"] and the noun Boxer were common German words as early as the late 18th century. The term Boxl, also written Buxn or Buchsen in the Bavarian dialect, means "short leather trousers" or "underwear". The very similar-sounding term Boxerl, also from the Bavarian dialect, is an endearing term for Boxer. These dogs were the result from mixes of Bullenbeisser and other similar breeds. Bier beer probably refers to the Biergarten, the typical Munich beer garden, an open-air restaurant where people used to take their dogs along. The nickname "Deutscher Boxer" was derived from Bierboxer and Boxer could also be a corruption of the former or a contraction of the latter. This seems improbable. Any such action would likely result in a badly bitten if not broken leg. On the other hand, a German breeder of 40 years' experience states positively that the Boxer does not use his feet, except to try to extinguish a small flame such as a burning match. But a Boxer does box with his head. He will hit not bite a cat with his muzzle hard enough to knock it out and he will box a ball with his nose. Or perhaps, since the German dictionary translates Boxer as "prize-fighter", the name was bestowed in appreciation of the fighting qualities of the breed rather than its technique. Boxer is also the name of a dog owned by John Peerybingle, the main character in the best-selling book The Cricket on the Hearth by Charles Dickens , which is evidence that "Boxer" was commonly used as a dog name by the early 19th century, before the establishment of the breed by the end of that same century. A brindle Boxer with two white socks Brindle, fawn, and white Boxer puppies See also: Dog health A healthy Boxer puppy Leading health issues to which Boxers are prone include cancers , heart conditions such as aortic stenosis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy the so-called " Boxer cardiomyopathy " , [35] hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy; other conditions that may be seen are gastric dilatation volvulus also known as bloat , intestinal problems, and allergies although these may be more related to diet than breed. An emerging health concern among boxers is Boxer Juvenile Kidney Disease JKD , where the kidneys do not develop normally during gestation and leads to chronic renal failure. There is strong evidence to suggest JKD is an inherited condition in boxers with research being undertaken by the University of Ohio to determine the gene mutation, as well as other work separately by the UK Boxer Breeder Council. Mortality due to infection increases significantly with increases in inbreeding. The breed is particularly predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. Because of their brachycephalic heads, they do not do well with high heat or humidity, and common sense should prevail when exercising a Boxer in these conditions. See also: Dog food Boxers need plenty of exercise, which means their diet should be high in quality calories. The main source of these calories should be lean animal protein, which include lean chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish. They sometimes appear at dog agility or dog obedience trials and flyball events. These strong and intelligent animals have also been used as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, police dogs in K9 units, and occasionally herding cattle or sheep. The versatility of Boxers was recognized early on by the military, which has used them as valuable messenger dogs, pack carriers, and attack and guard dogs in times of war. Notable Boxers[ edit ] Punch and Judy were awarded the Dickin Medal for conspicuous gallantry or devotion to duty while serving in a military conflict.

Bernedoodles are a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. They blend some of the best traits of each breed in an adorable, allergy-friendly package. To my knowledge, I was the first breeder to begin deliberately crossing the Bernese with the Poodle. That was in .I can say with confidence that all SwissRidge Bernedoodles are carefully and conscientiously bred, well-socialized, fun-loving family dogs. I can also say that each and every SwissRidge Bernedoodle is unique. As hybrids, they vary in size, color and coat type, and personality. Your SwissRidge Bernedoodle will truly be one-of-a-kind! I love the fact that no two Bernedoodles are exactly the same. But the range of possibilities does mean that you need a breeder you can trust to find the right Bernedoodle for you. I have been personally matching puppies to owners for more than a decade. The many testimonials here will attest to my success in doing so. For even more information, please check out my book, Bernedoodles: A Head to Tail Guide, and visit the SwissRidge Facebook group, where well over 2, members share photos, advice, testimonials and more. With so much experience under my belt, I can probably answer nearly every question you throw at me. The SwissRidge community has become so much more than I ever imagined. When you adopt one of my dogs, you get support not just from me but from hundreds of other owners. I believe that the success of SwissRidge Kennels is based on two key factors: an innovative and highly conscientious breeding program; and engaged, caring clients, who give amazing homes to my dogs, offer creative ideas, and support me and other owners. I want SwissRidge to be the very best kennel in North America, and I want this website to be everything you need it to be. I truly welcome ideas and feedback. Keep in touch! The First and Only Book on Bernedoodles! Bernedoodles: A Head to Tail Guide covers everything you need to know about this amazing hybrid and its creation at SwissRidge Kennels. This fun, easy-to-read book shares information that will help any prospective puppy owner raise a happy, healthy well-trained dog. With two decades of experience in breeding dogs, we pride ourselves on selecting only the best dogs for our breeding program, which in turn ensures that we are producing the best puppies imaginable. We perform a series of strict health tests, including hip and elbow testing; eyes, heart, skin, and patella testing; and a series of genetic tests, on all of our breeding dogs. Please feel free to contact us with any questions. We look forward to matching you with your next best friend! We wrote the first book on Bernedoodles buy now This comprehensive, easy-to-read and entertaining book covers everything you need to know about this amazing hybrid. Since Bernedoodles can vary significantly in size, build, coloring, and even personality, prospective owners need advice from someone who knows the breed inside out. Who better than the breeder who created them? Often people will want one of my dogs because they are irresistibly adorable. Please take the time to consider if this breed is the right choice for you and your family. Click the link above to answer some questions to help you see if our doodles are the best match for you. Welcome to New England Bernedoodles we are a family-owned breeder of exceptional Bernedoodles. We breed for temperament, trainability, and affectionate, lovable companions for any family. We started with this breed after having Australian Labradoodles for many years. However, the shedding and the largeness of the breed were off putting. We decided to put our understanding of genetics to work and combine quality, loving, gentle Bernese Mountain dogs with smart, affectionate poodles to produce Bernedoodles here at New England Bernedoodles. We are also producing the Australian Bernedoodle. Yes, they really are low to non-shedding. We here at New England Bernedoodles breed specifically for temperament so we know that our bernedoodles will excel in gentleness, trainability, love and sweet demeanor. Our bernedoodles have exceptional beautiful coats. There is nothing like snuggling up close to your New England Bernedoodle. New England Bernedoodles strive for excellence and we produce puppies that are extremely intelligent, abundantly affectionate and forever your best friend. I met Alicia through a friend, and she really helped me narrow down our decision, answering all my questions, with all things puppy new doggie Mom here We are so happy with Harlow, she is a micro Bernedoodle that loves to snuggle: I never knew how deeply we would fall in love, and so over the moon, to give our 3 children, the chance to experience this kind of unconditional, furry love! Thank you so much Alicia, Lexi, and Emme, and the Marshall family, for our sweet blessing. I came across Highfalutin Furry Babies, I found that no other breeder could compare to the level of love Alicia and Lexi put into their program!! She is constantly Giving Back, with all these amazing donations I think i cry almost every time I see a puppy donated, it absolutely warms my heart. I am more than honored to be able to support Alicia and Lexi!! It was so worth the wait just like everyone of the Highfalutin members told me it would be. I trusted them and put my faith into the program! One year later from the time I committed to a Highfalutin furry baby my puppy was hand delivered to me personally by Alicia. She spent two hours with us going over all kinds of information and details! Just what I was looking for, a very thorough breeder! It is now one week of having the puppy Home. He is an absolute joy! So smart! He knows a few commands already and he is just a few days shy of 10 weeks. He loves to snuggle with his Momma. Alicia we love you and your family and what you stand for. There are no words to express how grateful we are for you making sure our Christmas miracle came true!! Love The Potrzuski Family! He has surpassed even my wildest expectations. This is not because I enjoy talking about myself, but because it will show you how even the most clueless and inexperienced person in the world with dogs who defies all expectations about a dog owner fall in love with a HFFB baby. I'm 38 years old, single, never been married, no kids. Live in Los Angeles and work in the entertainment industry. The epitome of a bachelor. I've never had a dog before ever as a child. Instantly, I fell in love, but I knew having a dog that large would be tough. When a close family friend recommended Alicia and a bernedoodle, I did my research and realized my dream could become a reality. And then it happened. My Oscar moved to LA June 26th. He received additional training and after only two weeks, he is sleeping through the night, following commands including sit, wait, fetch, heel, etc and he is so excited to see me that he acts like he won Powerball. No one except my mother when I was an infant has ever felt this way about me haha! Oscar loves his crate, takes treats from neighbors and friends and smiles, eats regularly, enjoys his toys and being petted, and every single person in my social circle either loves him after meeting him or is dying to meet him. If I can do this as someone with ZERO dog experience, it will be a walk in the park for you and your family. Now to Alicia. Wow where do I even start: Alicia is one of the most caring and loving people I have ever met. She truly adores animals and treats them like her own children. They live in the home with her. Her passion jumps off the page and it makes a huge difference in the temperament of Oscar. Everything Alicia does is top-notch. From the amazing private support group on Facebook to the instructive breeding information to the recommendations of food, toys, and all equipment, she makes it so you absolutely cannot fail as a dog parent. Most of the dogs have their own Instagram pages and we all follow and support each other. In a time of divisiveness in our country, Alicia and her community provides a rare dose of positive energy that brings people so much happiness. In addition, I have made friends in Los Angeles with the parents of Oscar's siblings and Oscar's cousin and we have had play dates already! I message the mom of Oscar's brother Glover who lives in Boston a few times a week. We all compare notes and try to do better everyday and become better dog parents. Every single opportunity is given to the furry baby or the child to succeed. Alicia is like the principal of the school who makes the magic happen. But there are also guardians like Kamal and Natalie who are equally amazing who volunteer their time to make this community possible. Everything is buttoned up. There's nothing like it. Thanks for reading this long review, but I can't say enough about Alicia and Highfalutin. If you are just looking for a dog, HFFB might not be the right fit. But, if you want the best for your puppy and you feel like your puppy is part of the family and you are a responsible and loving person ready for an amazing and life changing experience, Highfalutin Furry Babies is the place for you. I guarantee it! Alicia does an amazing job of understanding the personalities of the puppies, matching them with owners and their lifestyles, as well as providing support to prospective and new owners. She always takes time to answer questions and support new owners. I am beyond thrilled with her caring nature and amazing knowledge of the breed. We were so lucky to find her!! She has created a supportive community of owners who answer questions and share experiences. What a wonderful breeder!! I cannot say enough amazing things about Highfalutin Furry Babies!!! Another awesome perk is that being a member of the HFFB family means we are all connected on social media as a community. We have a go to spot to ask questions, share advice, and make friends with fellow HFFB pawrents. We are so happy we went with Highfalutin Furry Babies! Alicia breeds the cutest furry babies and takes great care to ensure their health and positive traits. He was easy to train and is so smart. Our Brody was definitely worth the wait! I was a bit apprehensive when I started looking as we already have another dog at home that is perfect. How could another dog compare? Would we be disappointed? Well, she has completely stolen our hearts and I, like every high falutin furry baby parent, believe she is the best dog in the world. It was such a fun experience picking her up from the airport. No question was left unanswered and we felt totally prepared heading home. She is the happiest and most social dog I have ever encountered, and everyone that meets her, loves her. Our real life stuffed animal, adored by all! She is so smart and so very, very special. We feel incredibly blessed to call her ours. We are forever grateful to Alicia and her family for bringing these incredible dogs into the world. Trust the process. Initially wanting a boy, especially after losing our Winston, we were surprised and delighted when Alicia mentioned a girl. Piper was worth the wait! She is always happy, gentle, sweet natured, funny and just blends in with our family perfectly. Thank you Marshall family for an amazing dog! We spent years researching doodle breeds and breeders, and I never felt more confident throughout our research as I did once I found Highfalutin Furry Babies. As soon as we put our deposit down and joined the waiting list, we felt like a part of the family. Alicia, Lexie and Emme have built a wonderful community of families who are ready and able to support whenever and however needed. We waited a year for our Stevie Ray and, boy, was he worth the wait. Stevie slept through the night after just two nights at home, was near potty trained at only three months and is the star student in his puppy class. We are so in love with Stevie Ray, and we have Alicia to thank for bringing him into our lives. We cannot thank the Marshall family enough. Best decision of our lives! We had been on the waitlist and waited for the perfect baby! Alicia asked me a battery of questions as to what size, gender, coloring I wanted. Lucy was the exact match. I was concerned how my new puppy would get to my home. Alicia and her wonderful daughters flew in from Florida and hand delivered my precious new baby! Alicia stayed with us for a few days and made sure we were all compatible. Lucy is perfect! I am so impressed with her and give Alicia credit for her breeding ability and care. Not only is Lucy perfectly marked for a tricolored Bernedoodle, her temperament is also wonderful.He is truly perfect in every way. Alicia was so helpful during the whole process. Giving us updates and sharing health information on his growth. When Alicia brought him, she came ready with so much helpful information and lots of great tips, all wrapped up in his very own binder. My fiance and I cannot say enough amazing things about Highfalutin and Alicia. We feel absolutely blessed to be counted among her families and even more special to get to care for and love Ernie every day. It has been the best two months of my life. Brooklyn Poppy is sweet, smart, funny, and beautiful! She was almost potty trained after two short weeks, she knew basic commands at three months old, and loves all people and dogs to a fault. Even after bringing home our puppy, Alicia and the Highfalutin family still offer plenty of support for newbies like me. They have spoiled me with giving me the greatest puppy ever. Highfalutin Furry Babies is the only place I will be going for future dogs. We're so happy to be a part of their family with our puppy Indie, a standard bernedoodle. She is the sweetest thing, and was well worth the wait. Don't be discouraged by the waiting list, it just gives you time to learn more, fall in love, and really understand what it is you want from your pup. We learned about bernedoodles while researching Berners and other sennenhund breeds and fell in love. Then, as luck would have it another dog from that same litter Daisy lives in the town next to us, so we got to meet her and her family, and were just head over heels. After meeting two of Alicia's dogs and the wonderful families they come from we were all-in, especially considering the worry-free nature of the hand delivery Just wait, it's a day you'll never forget, and as a bonus you get to hang out with Alicia for a few hours! Alicia is great at understanding your situation, and pairing you up with the right puppy for you and your life. After submitting the deposit back in early summer of , we waited in anxious anticipation as we climbed the list. A lot changes in a year, and that's why the wait is awesome. But in the year we waited note: we were offered several puppies well before then, but the timing wasn't right , we bought a house and with more room, we came around to the idea of a smaller standard F1 bernedoodle like Indie. We really wanted a pup that had Willow the bernese as a mom, as her other puppies seemed perfect for our lifestyle and this was our chance to get her, and we're so glad we did. The people and families who belong to HFFB are wonderful, and having them as a group is an amazing resource. The support you get from Alicia and her team is beyond expectation. She's been there for us at every turn. Even getting us a little help and consult with potty training stuff which helped immediately. She's so sweet and genuine, and you can tell how much she loves these dogs and the people who make their forever-homes. We're surrounded by dogs here, and I don't know where any of them came from because that's not a thing people seem to talk about. But, everyone here knows that Indie is from HFFB; it's a thing that matters because Alicia and Lexie make it matter by caring and doing the things they do. It's a point of pride to be part of it and know that the dogs and families are all out there sharing their experiences with each other. Alicia not only went out of her way to travel to Tampa to introduce us to our baby, Jude, a Tri-Color Bernedoodle, while I was travelling for work, but she also flew to New Orleans to hand deliver Jude and came to our home with a very thorough packet with any and all information we will need as we raise our baby. We thoroughly enjoyed our time working with Alicia, and I know her and her family as truly loving and trustworthy. Beyond that, she somehow balances an impressive deluge of incoming messages and she is a problem solver who is always able to address complex issues with strategy and confidence. Her knowledge and expertise in breeding and raising Bernedoodles is obviously the hugest advantage of the Highfalutin experience. Jude came with all his shots, he was chipped, and he was trained! Her dogs are clearly doused with love as they grow to be old enough to come home…. Along with her undeniably perfect dogs, Alicia was an absolute joy to work with. Without a doubt, I confidently recommend Highfalutin Furry Babies as the best brand to find a Bernedoodle to join your household. Alicia and her family are so dedicated and knowledgeable — not to mention they are just all-around great people. Although we wanted the process to go quicker, Alicia was always in touch with us and made sure we were matched with the right puppy for our family. Since we welcomed Tito home, the continued support of Alicia and the HFFB family has been amazing for sharing suggestions and experiences. The last two months with Tito have been absolutely awesome. You could tell he had been loved from birth and was exactly the type of puppy we discussed with Alicia…smart, full of energy with a great temperament always wanting to be around people. I cannot tell you how many compliments we get and how often we get stopped to talk about him. Lastly, one cannot underestimate the power of the HFFB network. Alicia worked tirelessly to find a safe home for Geddy B and I am happy to say he is living the life with my aunt and uncle and their big family getting all the attention he deserves. We are lucky to be part of this network and to have a connection with someone who cares as much as Alicia and her family. She instantly bonded with our family and has become an inseparable playmate for our 16 month old Bernedoodle. We highly recommend Highfalutin Furry Babies and will not consider any other breeder for our next Bernedoodle. Sven For a long time, I imagined what my dream dog would be like-beautiful coloring, smart, filled with love for the whole family. He has been a sweetheart since the day he came home and quickly became comfortable with his whole family. He cried for maybe five minutes his first night, and that was it. He was 12 weeks old when Alicia and her two lovely daughters, Emme and Lexie, brought him in their arms all the way from Florida. When we got the call we we're next in line for a puppy I was extatic! Looking at pics from previous litters was enough to make our head spin and hearts pound in anticipation of getting our own dog. Rocket is a Tri-Color Bernedoodle who's so spectacular that not a single person has ever been able to pass without some adoring puppy comment, or kneeling for a quick pet and closer look. His good looks are only dwarfed by his sweet demeanor and curious puppy personality. My four and six year old girls are head over heals for him, almost as much as he is for them. Rocket is fantastic with kids and instantly fit in with our family! HFB is so much more than a breeder, they are purveyors of some of the finest examples of this unique mix you'll find anywhere. Alicia's knowledge of bloodlines, breed genetics, and behavioral characteristics, coupled with her years of experience allow here offer only the best of the best. If you met Rocket, you'd agree. I wish my daughters were delivered with as detailed of an instruction manual as Rocket came with! Our, "Dog Bible" came with so much helpful information that raising our dog to have a long healthy life will be easy. All the previous health check-ups we listed, all prior shots were listed along with serum batch numbers. As if that wasn't enough, Alicia is always available to answer questions. If you're looking for a Bernedoodle, this is the place. Ian Ziering. Available Bernedoodles Everyone wants the perfect puppy. You are looking for the puppy you can love, and the one who will love you back with unconditional puppy love. We understand and will help you find the puppy that is just right for you and your family! Our family raises adorable Tiny, Mini, and Standard Bernedoodle puppies. We provide our puppies with loving care from day 1 and ensure the puppies stay healthy, allowing us to present you with a happy, active puppy dog pal. We are best at producing Tri-colored Mini and Standard Bernedoodles and our puppies make great companions and playmates. Browse our website to see photos of Bernedoodle puppies for sale. We also picture many of the puppies who have found their forever homes. Learn about our family, our puppies and their parents, and how you can become the proud owner of a new puppy! Our puppies go to their forever home with the following: Prepaid ICA Registration Health certificate from our vet Up to date on vaccinations Up to date on dewormers Micro chipped 2 year genetic health guarantee Dew claws removed.

I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Puppies currently available to approved homes! I am a small hobby breeder of English Bulldogs, breeding for conformation, health, and temperament. My family began our journey with our first bulldog, Spartacus, in .He introduced us to this amazing breed and opened our eyes to how truly fun and versatile this breed is! He inspired me to showcase his charming and charismatic nature, and though he never became a part of my breeding program, his legacy is represented in our logo and in the fun opportunities our dogs get to pursue thanks to the love of training he inspired and how he opened our eyes to the joy and bonding we experience with our dogs because of him. I breed to produce my next show hopeful following the AKC breed standard as our guide, and to provide other families the opportunity to experiencew the wonderful, full life a well-bred Bulldog can enjoy. I believe bulldogs can have it all- beauty, health, AND brains! I am an active member of several groups dedicated to advanced mother and puppy care, attend seminars yearly to further my knowledge and education, and have completed and am enrolled in several other online curriculums designed to produce healthy, happy puppies and support their mothers. Everbull puppies are raised following the Puppy Culture protocols for development so we can be sure our puppies will be sound, confident, and intelligent members of your family! It starts at the very beginning as I plan for our litters, influences prenatal care, and continues through the critical weeks they are here with us. Finally, it guides us in the steps we follow as your puppy transitions to your home. We provide you with tools to support your growing puppy. Puppy Culture is a group of protocols supported by science and top experts in their field. It includes ENS Early Neurological Stimulation which is used from the very beginning, to give our puppies the very best start at life. It further incorporates steps to address important developmental periods, fear stages, potty training, crate training, communicating with you manding , problem solving and leash walking so that by the time your new puppy is ready to go home it is well on its way to being a good citizen and member of your household! Our puppies are empowered to learn how to think, not just follow commands, making them easier to train and communicate with you throughout their lifetime! All Rights Reserved. Welcome to Wrinkle Ridge Bulldogs. We are premier bulldog breeders in Minnesota and Wisconsin. We specialize in breeding registered English Bulldogs and are located in west central Wisconsin about 60 miles east of Minneapolis, Minnesota. The puppies are all home raised no kennel or backyard operation. We have over 23 years of experience and knowledge in raising and caring for this very special breed. Contact us about shipping nation wide or if you are seeking a bulldog in Minneapolis or English bulldogs in Wisconsin. At Wrinkle Ridge we have three goals in mind: 1 Do the breed justice: We strive to create healthy, up to standard puppies with the "look" and design of a true English Bulldog. Quality is a top priority and we strive for perfection! Only the best will do for our wrinkled friends! Nothing makes us happier than the thought of all the smiles these pups will be responsible for causing. We love hearing back from customers telling how much they love their new friend! A word of warning.We are committed to finding the perfect owner for each of our top quality puppies. A word to the wise,English Bulldog puppies are expensive and a lot of work to raise. They require artificial insemination,a c-section at birth and supervised hands on feeding of the puppies otherwise the mother will squash or smother them accidentally. Feeding is done around the clock night hours included every hours for weeks. Scammers will steal pictures from breeders and can also hack into websites and act like they represent someone's breeding program!!! Please heed this warning!! Get references,ask questions,do your homework. If it sounds too good to be true it is!!!

All Goldendoodles can smell, regardless of coat type. There are seven common causes of Goldendoodles smelling — find out more here. There are three types of Goldendoodle fur coats Wavy Curly Straight The three Goldendoodle coats have differing degrees of curliness. Different genes inherited from the parent dogs will determine the coat type. They are also referred to as fleece coats. Wavy coat Goldendoodles are typically low shedding. A wavy coat does require grooming to prevent deep knots from forming. A wavy coat will grow to around cm 4 to 7 inches in left untrimmed The hair will typically be shorter around the face Wavy coats are low shedding Wavy or fleece coats are less dense than a curly coat Wavy coat Goldendoodles are low allergy Wavy coat Goldendoodles need brushing at least once per week. The coat will stay healthy and clean with little effort. If left to develop, sometimes the knots need shaving, which can cause discomfort. Brush well before shampooing your Goldendoodle with the best breed appropriate shampoo Curly Coat Goldendoodles Curly Goldendoodle coats feature the densest curls of any Groodle coat type. The curly coat is also most like that of the purebred Poodle. If the coat is curly, you can look for a few early signs to help tell the coat type of your Goldendoodle. Curly coats will eventually stop growing if left. The hair will typically be shorter around the face — but not always. Curly coat Goldendoodles are very allergy friendly. They are typically non-shedding. The curly coat is similar but not identical to a Poodle coat. Many owners and breeders report little to no Goldendoodle smell with this coat. Some owners only cut their Curly Coat Goldendoodles fur two or three times a year. They will need to brush once or twice a week to avoid knotting and give the best appearance. Straight Coat Goldendoodles Sometimes the straight coat Goldendoodle is called a hair coat or loose coat. These Goldendoodles share the most coat characteristics with a Golden Retriever. Straight coat Goldendoodles can resemble a Golden Retriever. They are the easiest to groom but do shed a little. Use the best-reviewed Goldendoodle shampoo to keep the coat soft. The straight coat can be extremely low maintenance These dogs are shedders This type of Goldendoodle is the most likely to cause trouble for allergy sufferers. Test individually as many allergy sufferers cope well with lots of different types of Poodle Mix breeds. Even though this coat is typically the least amount of maintenance — you may still need to brush. And more often than you think. If there is a dense undercoat it will be necessary to brush at least once per week to avoid knotting. Regardless of coat type, all Goldendoodles can end up with ear wax build-up or infections. Our guide on how to clean Labradoodle ears can be applied to Goldendoodles as well. If your dog wears a collar or harness frequently you will need to brush these areas irrespective of which coat type is present. The change from puppy coat can be sudden. It can also be gradual and take months to switch to an adult coat. Toy and teacup Goldendoodles will experience a puppy coat change too. Several breeders say that it is common for Goldendoodle puppy owners not to notice the coat change. The breeders said this is because either The coat change was gradual from 6 months of age with no sudden change Or some adult coats for Godlendoodles are super soft and indistinguishable from the puppy coat How To Tell What Coat Your Goldendoodle Will Have Genetics will determine the variables of the coat. Cross-breeding dogs can give unpredictable results. Goldendoodle puppies can be more like one parent than the other, Breeders and owners have noted some tricks and tips to help determine the future coat of a Goldendoodle puppy. The usual reminder that a Groodle is the same thing as a Goldendoodle. So if you are looking to find out how to tell what type of coat a Groodle will have — you are in the right place. From early puppyhood through to one year of age, the Goldendoodle coat is in a constant state of development. Knowing exactly the type of coat that a puppy will have as an adult is not possible. There are however some early signs that give you an indication of what the adult coat will be. We asked owners and breeders how to tell what coat your Goldendoodle will have. How to tell what coat your Goldendoodle puppy will have: Check the snout. By comparing the coats of the parent dogs you will get a generally good idea of the range of possibilities. If both parents are Goldendoodle with fleece, a wavy coat is most likely. If both have loose straight hair — be prepared for shedding. Nature and genetics will have the final say. These coat prediction methods give best indication of future coat type. There can always be surprises. Naming inspiration from a galaxy far, far away. The hypoallergenic, non-shedding Poodle coat is a highly desired feature. This significantly increases the likelihood of a Curly coat or Wavy coat. F1b Goldendoodles are less likely to have a significant coat change from puppyhood to adulthood. It is common for the fur density and coarseness to increase. These Goldendoodles do not have teddy bear features. English Goldendoodles are more likely than American Goldendoodles to have a boxy teddy bear appearance. Both types can look very teddy-bear-like with the correct furnishings. We call the Goldendoodle teddy bear face features furnishings. Dogs with any of the three coat types can also be missing furnishings. As a result, they can look much more like a Poodle or a Golden Retriever. Bernedoodles experience something similar with their tri-colour coats. F1 Goldendoodles are the most likely to be missing furnishings. A puppy without furnishings is unlikely to develop them when the coat changes to the adult Goldendoodle coat. Is this the Goldendoodle puppy coat transition? Where are all these dog mats coming from? The surprising transition from puppy coat to adult coat can sneak up on any unsuspecting dog mom. But the subject of the Goldendoodle coat transition deserves just as much attention as all the other Goldendoodle pros and cons. However, one thing is true for all Goldendoodle puppies. At some point, the Goldendoodle puppy coat will change and the adult coat will come in. Matting can take over quickly Kind of like the month of March, the coat transition may enter like a lion! You may be surprised how quickly the mats coming roaring onto the scene. When my Goldendoodle sidekick Chloe was a pup, her puppy coat was soft and silky and there was not a mat to be found, even in the crevices like the armpits! Meet Chloe. Her puppy coat was silky soft. First under the ears. Then the armpits. Brushing became our thing. Brushing removes dead hair that would otherwise cause mats. Like hair on our human heads, dog hair has to go somewhere. Since Doodles tend to shed less, Goldendoodle grooming is part of keeping the hair from tangling and matting. There will always be hair to manage with any dog, whether low-shedding or high-shedding. With a low-shedding dog, there is a greater amount of grooming. With a high-shedding dog, there is a greater amount of time spent cleaning hair off floors. Either way, you have the joy of being a dog parent! For more about shedding, read my article: Do Goldendoodles Shed? It may make you feel overly confident. When the Goldendoodle puppy coat starts transitioning, be ready. When do Goldendoodle puppies shed their coat? However, as a rule of thumb, Goldendoodle parents say anywhere between four to eight months and may even be up to two years. What happens during a Goldendoodle puppy coat transition? When the Goldendoodle adult coat begins to grow in, the puppy coat begins to shed. This creates tangles. If not groomed early, the tangles turn into mats. Since there are so many Goldendoodle coat types, there is not one set example. Some parents will hardly notice the change while other Goldendoodle parents will find what feels like an explosion of mats. What areas are the biggest matting culprits? Standard Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Personality The place where the Goldendoodle puppy really excels is its personality. Its breed is known for being simultaneously intelligent and adoring. A Goldendoodle puppy is very sociable, which makes them perfect animals for households with children and other animals or pets, even cats. Just like the Labradoodle, this breed requires correct socialization to ensure they get used to different sights, sounds and smells during puppyhood. This means taking your Goldendoodle to plenty of doggy-friendly parks so they can meet canine friends and introducing them to other people. Our Goldendoodle puppies for sale are fully trained Doodles, so you can focus on the fun bits, like bonding, eating food and playing. These dogs prefer to live in a house with a gated backyard where they can get regular exercise breaks. Do They Like to Play? Goldendoodle Puppy Training These clever dogs are perfect for first-time dog owners because Goldendoodles love to please and take great pride in learning new skills. Are Goldendoodles Intelligent? Both of its poodle and golden retriever parent breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability, and Goldendoodles have inherited this breed trait. This means the person training a Goldendoodle needs to be strong-willed, firm and consistent — but never harsh or aggressive. Much like a poodle, Doodles are sensitive dogs, and positive reinforcement is a must to bring out the best in them. How Obedient Are They? Goldendoodle pups adore human company, and making their pet parents happy brings them genuine satisfaction. As such, correct puppy training produces a highly obedient and loyal adult Goldendoodle. Older adults, people with disabilities and individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders can benefit significantly from the warmth and sweetness of these adorable Goldendoodle pups. Are They Easy to Train? Doodle puppies can be mischievous and cheeky, but aggression is practically unheard of. So as long as you treat them with the same gentle respect they offer, a Goldendoodle is one of the easiest dog breeds to train. Goldendoodles have loads of energy and require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and calm temperament. A Goldendoodle need a moderately high level of outdoor activity — usually a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally one hour, of moderate to vigorous exercise per day will keep Goldendoodle puppies at their best. Unlike puppy mills, all good puppy and dog breeders provide a certificate that shows health clearances. At Pride and Prejudoodles, our tests cover common health conditions. As such, you have peace of mind when purchasing your new puppy from us. How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? Goldendoodles live for between 10 and 15 years. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Goldendoodle puppies for adoption. Coat Comparisons Post updated I have had many inquires from families wondering what coat type the puppies will have as they mature. When dealing with a Hybrid it is very difficult to predict with certainty what their Adult coat will eventuality end up like. Puppies go through multiple coat changes before their adult coat finally comes in. All newborn goldendoodle puppies look like Golden Retrievers. It is not until around 6 — 7 weeks when we can determine if it will be a Flat Coat goldendoodle — no facial furnishings. We have produced flat coats with both straight hair and with some curls. Below are some of our previous puppies. There are three pictures of each puppy. Notice the progression of the puppy: the first picture is newborn, the next picture is puppy at eight weeks old and the last picture the puppy as an adult. My puppies are lucky to have joined such wonderful, loving families. It makes my day when I get an email from one of our previous puppy families giving me an update and sharing pics of their dog. Thank you! They are fluffy all over including the face. They come in three types — Straight, Wavy, and Curly. Grooming requirements are brushing daily to prevent matting and a trip to the groomers every eight weeks or so.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. This post may contain links to products that I may receive compensation for at no additional cost to you. View my affiliate disclosure here. You being here means you are having the same problem. In this article, we will not only help with the best food for German Shepherd puppy, but we will also discuss some essential factors that might help you to ensure proper physical and mental growth of your little companion. You will have to feed your puppy three to four small meals every day until your pet becomes six months old. Once the puppy reaches this age, you will have to split the food into two big meals. Be sure to follow the instructions on the manufacturers packaging. A German Shepherd puppy needs more food than an adult as they will be in a growing phase. Puppies always remain busy and spend most of their time playing and exploring the environment. Their diet needs to be rich in protein to ensure muscular development and healthy mental and physical growth. In brief, you can say that you should consider a diet that adds protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Minerals and vitamins are required for growth. However, be mindful not to go overboard on minerals and vitamins. Dry food and wet food are both considered suitable for German Shepherd puppies. You can combine them both. But you need to start with wet food once the German Shepherd puppy is weaned from its mother. The digestive system is used to milk. So, dry food can cause digestive issues initially. Start with wet foods, and then you can gradually move to dry food. You can start offering dry food when your puppy becomes 12 weeks old, which is about the age a puppy is when you bring it home. Once you introduce dry food, you can make it the prime source of food since dry food ensures better energy and strength. Is Organic Worth the Extra Money? Yes, organic is worth it, and you can consider organic if your budget allows it. Organic food can ensure the overall well being of your German Shepherd puppy. With organic food, you can expect shiny and luscious coats. They can thrive and live longer if you always provide them organic food. Non-organic foods come with trace amounts of pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, and unhealthy fillers. These are toxic and can be harmful to your pet. Organic food is the best food for German Shepherd puppies. Best Food for German Shepherd Puppy 1. Therefore, you can expect this high quality food to avoid any kind of complications in the early weeks of your puppy's life. You can continue with this food until your puppy becomes twelve months old. It is an excellent source of calcium to ensure proper bone health. The food can be effective in preventing many health complications, including dysplasia as well. In addition to the calcium, it has chondroitin and natural glucosamine. These ingredients will make your puppy's muscles and joints healthy and strong. Your German Shepherd puppy will get the required amount of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. All these are going to boost the immunity of your puppy. Also, it will not contain flavorings, colors, and preservatives. The key ingredients are whole grain millet, blood meal, chicken fat, yeast culture, and chicken meal. It is free from gluten and can be the best for puppies since it gives the required energy to be active throughout the day. The food is appreciated for high-quality nutrition, and that makes it an excellent choice for young puppies. In addition to the protein, it is rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fatty acids. If you are looking for the best dog food to boost immunity and improve your puppy's digestive system, this may be the way to go. It offers exceptional health support to your puppy. The food will be gentle on the digestive system and can be the best choice for puppies in their early weeks. The core ingredients are ground brown rice, lamb meal, and chicken meal. All of them are natural and will not harm your puppy in any manner. Also, it adds omega 3 fatty acids that will ensure a healthy coat and skin. There are probiotics, taurine, glucosamine, and antioxidants to ensure the overall growth of your puppy. The key ingredients are pea protein, tapioca, dried egg, peas, and bison meal. All these are natural ingredients and can be perfect for their immature and delicate digestive system. The great balance of nutrients will help with proper growth and energy. The flavor is also excellent. The above ingredients contain L-carnitine, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, antioxidants, and nutrients rich fruits and vegetables. All these will help your puppy to thrive. These ingredients can boost immunity, as well. The key ingredients make it an outstanding food choice for German Shepherd Puppies. It contains novel proteins such as the roasted bison, roasted venison, nutrient-rich legumes, K9 strain probiotic blend, and natural antioxidants to improve the digestive system of your puppy. Also, it adds boar, lamb, and fiber. The best thing about this dry puppy food is that it does not contain corn, grain, wheat, artificial flavors preservatives, wheat, and color. Your puppy will need a balanced and rich diet to get the required energy and strength to be active throughout the day. It contains chicken meal, duck, egg products, Turkey meal, and peas to boost your pet's immunity. It is a grain-free formula and can support optimal growth. In addition to the above, there are omega-3 acids, probiotics, and antioxidants. As it is a natural food, there are no preservatives, flavors, and artificial colors. Best Grain-Free Choice - Merrick Grain-free Puppy Food If you are looking for a great combination of peas, chicken meal, deboned chicken, potatoes, and sweet potatoes, you should not look beyond Merrick Grain-free Puppy Food. Almost all of the large breed puppies, including the German Shepherd, need a grain-free and high-protein diet to really thrive. Merrick combines nutrients, protein, fibers, minerals, and natural ingredients to become an ideal food for your puppy. With Merrick Grain-free Puppy Food , you can expect a complete balanced diet. Gary's Holistic German Puppy Food may be the best food for German Shepherd puppies since it is specifically crafted for this breed. The key ingredients are brown rice, oatmeal, chicken meal, chicken fat, and beet pulp. Most of these ingredients are highly digestible and can ensure maximum nutrition absorption. Your German Shepherd is going to love the delicious blend. In addition to the above ingredients, it contains chicken, eggs, and fish to promote muscle development and overall well being. The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids will make the coat shiny and luscious. There are also quality fibers to improve the functioning of their digestive system. Its grain-free and high-protein ingredients will maintain the muscle mass and motivate your little friend to enjoy all the activities. It contains chicken meal, peas, menhaden fish meal, and pea protein as well. This specific food can be a great choice both for puppies and adult German Shepherds. Antioxidants and healthy crabs will make your puppy physically and mentally active. You can expect the ultimate development with regular consumption. Blackwood Dry Puppy Food may be the best food for a German Shepherd puppy if you are looking for a regular balanced diet without hurting your budget. It contains lamb meal, millet, oats, chicken meal, and brown rice. Blackwood can help to improve digestion and keep your puppy active throughout the day. Wrapping Up These are the best food choices for your German Shepherd puppy. You can add them to your puppy's diet slowly to avoid any digestion issues. Whatever you choose, make sure that it comes as a great blend of protein, fat, fibers, carbohydrates, and nutrients. Welcome to the Pack! If you haven't purchased a harness for your new German Shepherd Puppy, take a look at our article on 5 of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. The main downside is that while Royal Canin is the most expensive kibble on our list, it also contains several grains and byproduct ingredients. We were hoping that the price meant higher quality ingredients, but Royal Canin seems to have abandoned whole foods for vitamin and mineral additives. Pros Designed specifically for German Shepherd puppies Smaller-sized kibbles for puppy teeth Protein blend to support digestion Balanced minerals for healthy bone growth Vitamin and antioxidant blend to support young immune systems Cons Some grains and byproduct ingredients 5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Food Check Price on Amazon Blue Buffalo is a well-respected brand of dog food, and their reputation for quality is due in large part to their commitment to whole food ingredients. We love how much of the vitamins and minerals provided by this kibble come from whole foods like chicken, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Blue Buffalo does not go the quick and easy route of adding these nutrients later in the process, unlike other brands, and the finished product speaks for itself. However, German Shepherd puppies have notoriously finicky digestive systems. While being grain-free is helpful in that respect, this blend does not contain any other special formulations to support a healthy GI tract. It is extremely healthy, but also on the expensive side — so you may gamble and lose if your puppy has trouble digesting this kibble. Pros Designed for large breed puppies The first ingredient is deboned chicken Grain-free, no byproduct ingredients Vitamins and minerals are mainly provided by whole foods and complete proteins Support for bone growth, immune system, joints, and cognitive functioning Cons No modification to support a sensitive digestion 6. This chicken and brown rice puppy blend contains no byproduct ingredients, multiple lean animal proteins, and only the highest quality grains. However, this food is moderately expensive and does not specifically cater to dogs with sensitive digestive systems. Better to try a grain-free brand first and keep this option as a backup. The ingredients are all high quality, but the variety of foods in this blend leaves something to be desired. Considering that it is made almost entirely from protein, grains, and beans this brand is rather expensive. There are no whole vegetables or fruits, so many of the vitamins and minerals are provided by additives. Added vitamins are not only harder to absorb than those from whole foods, but cheaper. What gives? Most importantly, the beans may be hard for a German Shepherd puppy to digest and lead to a variety of gastrointestinal upset. While the lamb could be a nice change for your pup, we recommend testing this kibble out in small amounts to gauge suitability for your dog. Pros Designed for large breed puppies The first ingredient is deboned lamb, second is chicken meal Only high-quality, whole grains Whole foods supply joint support Cons Few whole fruits and vegetables Contains beans and peas which may upset digestion 8. But upon closer consideration, you will see why this food is not a great choice for German Shepherd puppies. Though it has good proteins, this is another brand that gets almost none of its nutrients from whole fruits or vegetables. Pros Designed for large breed puppies First ingredient is chicken meal No artificial colors or preservatives Balanced minerals to support bone growth Cons The second, third, and fourth ingredients are all grain Very few whole fruits and vegetables 9. Eukanuba Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food Check Price on Amazon The Eukanuba Large Breed puppy food is another excellent example of a food that, while technically complete and balanced, does not have the healthful ingredients to make all those nutrients available to your dog. Besides a few good foods like chicken, fish oil, and chicken meal, this kibble is chock full of cheap grains and byproducts. It contains no whole fruits or vegetables, and most of the vitamins and minerals are additives. German Shepherd puppy bellies are particularly sensitive to poor quality ingredients and additives. And though they advertise a special, easy-to-digest prebiotic blend on the package, there is no evidence anywhere else to substantiate this claim. Why do German Shepherd puppies need the best dog food? German Shepherd puppies need dog food designed for large breed puppies to ensure controlled joint and bone growth. This is because large-breed puppies are prone to certain health risks like hip dysplasia and other Orthopedic conditions. The best dog food for German Shepherds will ensure your puppy grows healthy, strong, energetic, and with lovely skin and coats. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds puppies German Shepherd puppies require a balanced diet that contains four types of nutrients below. These ingredients will ensure that your pup grows and develops optimally for a longer quality of life. Proteins Proteins help the puppies in building up their body tissues. Proteins can be found in chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, eggs, and dairy. Fats Fats are important for healthy skin, fur, brain, and vision. The recommended fat level per dry matter basis is 8. Fats can be found in fish oil, chicken fat, and beef fat. Digestible carbohydrates Because puppies are incredibly energetic, they need digestible carbs to provide them with energy. Digestible carbohydrates can be found in rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and whole oats. Micronutrients In addition to these key nutrients, German Shepherd puppies also need micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, DHA, and omega-3, and vitamin A. They also need fiber to promote digestion and bowel movement and clean water to help with bodily functions. For large dog breed only: Foods specially formulated for German Shepherd puppies: Veterinarian and pet advisor Dr. Choose a dog food that is specially formulated for German Shepherds puppies or large breed puppies can ensure your pups are getting the nutritional requirements at every stage of their growth. The opposite side is giving your pup the wrong food that may lead to serious growth and digestive problems. Things to consider before choosing dog food for German Shepherds puppies 1. Their growth Puppies may need different nutrients at different stages depending on their growth rate. For instance, a puppy in the weaning stage between three to four weeks will need more antioxidants which are found in foods containing Vitamin C and E. In contrast, a teething puppy will need wet dog food which is easily digestible food on its tummy to minimize intestinal upset. For instance, a younger puppy may have difficulty eating larger food pieces than an older puppy. Teething If your dog is teething, which starts at around three weeks, you may want to consider food that contains calcium like dairy and bone broth for strong and healthy teeth. On the other hand, if the dog has teething problems, wet food may be a better option than dry food until they recover. Alternatively, you add wet canned food to their kibble to make it soft and palatable. The body weight An underweight puppy has different dietary requirements from an overweight puppy. You do not want to underfeed or overfeed your puppy. Activity Level Puppies that are extremely active require foods high in carbohydrates to keep up their energy levels. If your dog is not as active, you want to keep the carbs down to avoid obesity. With all the many dry foods out on the market, it can be hard to choose the healthiest for your pups. Step 1. The Association of American Feed Control Officials developed nutrient profiles to establish minimum and some maximum nutrient concentrations for dogs and cats. These profiles are updated when new findings from research in pet nutrition become available. They provide practical guidance for pet food manufacturers. Adult Maintenance: Dog foods formulated for adult maintenance have the nutrients adult dogs need. Dogs over the age of one are considered adults, except for some large and giant breeds who do not fully mature until age two. You may see variations of these nutrient profiles on dog food packaging. Step 2. Read the food label The label is the most important thing you should check when deciding which puppy food to pick. Here are the 3 things you would like to read on the packaging: a. List of ingredients The list of ingredients should have the main ingredient as the first ingredient then followed by the rest according to their percentage. For instance, in the label below the first five ingredients, are chicken as the main ingredient, ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, corn gluten meal and dried plain beet pulp. Feeding guidelines This will show you how much food and how many times you should feed your puppy. Watch this video if you want to better understand the wording on a dog food packaging means: Step 3. Are there any claims of pups reacting to the food? Do the users recommend or warn against the food? Of course, you want to go with what the majority of the reviewers say. You can also check dogadvisor. Step 4. The vet is in a better place to advise on what type of food to go for or what ingredients to avoid. Best dry foods for German Shepherds Puppies There are hundreds of dog foods out there with fancy names and ingredients, which make it so hard for dog owners to find the right food for their pups. To help you narrow down your search, we asked a couple of vets to suggest the best dog food for German Shepherds puppies. Purina Pro Plan — For sensitive skin and allergies Why do we like it? This dog food is ideal for all large breed puppies weighing over 50 pounds, GSD included. It is specially formulated for puppies with sensitive skin and stomachs. It is made with real chicken, among other high-quality ingredients. This dry food has optimal calcium levels to promote proper joint and bone growth. It helps prevent forms of hip dysplasia. Ideal for German Shepherd puppies of all ages. Delicious dry food for large breed puppies like GSD. It is specially formulated for superior vision and healthy brain development. This is an all-natural dog food specially made for large-breed puppies of all ages. It is made with real, wholesome ingredients. Making the right food choice will ensure that your puppy grows healthier, stronger, and more energetic. Weaning for a GSD puppy should start at around 6 to 8 weeks while still maintaining nursing. Complete weaning should be from 8 weeks when the puppy is fed on puppy food only. How is puppy food different from adult dog food? Puppy food contains more protein and fats, and certain minerals than adult dog food to support their growing brain, vision, nervous system, immune system, bones, and joints. When should German Shepherd puppies transition to adult dog food? German Shepherd puppies should transition to adult dog food from 12 to 24 months. The transition should be gradual, and the puppy should be constantly monitored. More posts on feeding your German Shepherds Must read:. It also tends to be high in protein. Food that is high in protein and calories will provide your puppy with the energy that they need and help them gain the right amount of weight as they grow up. Most puppy food also includes vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium and phosphorus, for healthy and strong bones and teeth. You should speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right food and are feeding your puppy the proper amount. We hope that these reviews have helped you decide on the right food for your German Shepherd puppy. Remember to stick with large-breed food because it usually has the correct ratio of vitamins and minerals to give your GSD puppy all the suitable nutrition that they need so they can grow up strong, healthy, and happy. Featured Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Written by Kathryn Copeland Author Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement. This is a question that many German Shepherd owners ask, as they want to make sure their beloved furry friend is getting all the nutrients they need. The good news is that there are plenty of healthy dog food options out there for German Shepherds. You should eat foods that include high-quality animal-based protein sources like lamb, beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes. In addition, the meal should be plentiful in fats, vitamins, and minerals. Are eggs good for German Shepherds? Yes, eggs are a great source of protein for German Shepherds. In fact, they are one of the healthiest foods you can feed your dog. Eggs are packed with nutrients that are essential for a German Shepherd's diet, including vitamins A, D, and E. They also contain omega-three fatty acids, which are important for a dog's coat and skin health. What is the best food for German Shepherds with allergies? If your German Shepherd has allergies, it's important to find a hypoallergenic best dog food for German Shepherds that will not trigger their symptoms. There are many brands of hypoallergenic dog food on the market that use alternative protein sources, such as duck or venison. These foods are often grain-free as well, which is ideal for German Shepherds with allergies. What is the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs? If your German Shepherd has a sensitive stomach, you'll want to find a dog food that is easy on their digestive system. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These foods often have limited ingredient lists and use easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or potato. What is the best food for German Shepherds with joint problems? If your German Shepherd has joint problems, you'll want to find a dog food that is rich in omega-three fatty acids. These essential nutrients help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with joint problems. These foods often contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to help relieve joint pain. Now let's chat in more detail about the best dog foods for your furry friend. It is made with all natural ingredients and has no fillers or preservatives. The kibble is also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for dogs' skin and coat health. The addition of zinc proteinate and other chelated minerals to the formula is a plus, as it leads to better absorption and nutrition. We also note the inclusion of various probiotics for better digestion and salmon oil, which is beneficial to both skin and coat. Highly suggested! All of their recipes are made with whole ingredients and cooked in small batches. The meals are portioned according to your dog's weight and activity level. Wilderness is a grain-free and protein-rich product with over a dozen options and recipes, which makes it ideal for people who want to rotate their diets. It's reasonably priced, and it gets high marks from consumers. Probiotics, high-quality fiber, and digestive enzymes are included in this formula to aid your dog's digestive health. These components create mouth-watering, healthy food that will sustain your canine companion throughout the day. The foods in this recipe include multiple probiotics for improved digestion, chelated minerals for maximized absorption, and nutrient-dense food. It's inexpensive to buy as well as simple to suggest. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food Image courtesy Eagle Pack The majority of the animal protein in Adult takes the form of fresh chicken and pork meal, as confirmed by the nutritional label. The all-time classic, fully grain-inclusive design that is free of legume concentrates. Antioxidant preservatives are used in a safe and natural manner. There's no BHT or ethoxyquin. It has high animal protein levels, as well as vitamins and minerals that have been boosted through the use of freeze-dried raw pieces. It's designed to unleash your dog's potential to thrive and put the advantages of raw nutrition into every bowl, using cage-free duck as the first ingredient for powerful, lean muscles. It also contains a probiotic boost for digestive health, greater amounts of omegas for healthy skin and coat, and more antioxidants for immune health—all from the highest-quality ingredients from all over the world. This high-protein, low-carb diet is designed for sporting dogs and plush animals with rigorous exercise requirements. It's also perfect for growing pups and pregnant or nursing females. This formula has DHA to support cognitive development, as well as calcium for strong bones and teeth. Iams ProActive Health also has 22 essential vitamins and minerals to keep your puppy healthy and strong. It's nice to discover a Southwest Canyon recipe that includes natural preservatives, which implies the food does not contain any BHA, BHT, or other harmful chemicals. A major brand and a healthy all-age option for any German Shepherd. Champion Petfoods, the well-known maker of Orijen, has long promoted a meat-based "biologically appropriate" diet. This is a tried and true design that makes this particular dish an excellent choice for developing Shepherd pups. This natural dry food is developed to give complete-body nutritional support for puppies of all sizes. It's made with high-quality proteins and whole grains, all of which are complemented by omega fatty acids—such as DHA—necessary vitamins, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics. This balanced, nutritious dry dog food is intended to promote teeth and bone strength, healthy brain growth, general health, energy and vitality, optimal nutrient absorption, and healthy muscle development. It's free of GMOs, by-products from processing animals into pet food ingredients meat meal , fillers, or artificial preservatives to ensure that your dog gets the healthiest food possible. This is a tried-and-true approach that has been developed and studied for decades. It includes controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios, making it ideal for German Shepherd puppies. This large-breed dry food is made with high-quality proteins and whole grains. It's free of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives. This recipe is designed to support the health of large breed puppies with an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. It also includes DHA from fish oil for healthy brain development. This recipe includes DHA for brain development, calcium and phosphorus for bone growth, and antioxidants to support the immune system. It's also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. You can feed your dog either dry or wet food, and he may sample two distinct flavor profiles: rice and oatmeal for salmon. Because it contains no allergens like wheat, corn, or soy, there's less of a chance that your dog will suffer an upset stomach. It also includes omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which help to promote skin, coat, and joint health. Image courtesy Blue Buffalo If you're searching for high-quality, all-natural wet dog food, Blue Buffalo Wilderness is a wonderful alternative. This dog food is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for an entourage diet. It's made with real beef and chicken, can be served as a delicious treat, or blended into your dog's regular dry food. The Blue Buffalo puppy food contains no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives; making it a healthy choice for your dog. All dishes are prepared in collaboration with veterinarians and come in a variety of delicious flavors, including beef, lamb, and turkey. All of the meats are imported from the United States, although only lamb comes from Australia. It's also gluten-free, so if you're allergic to grains, you'll be safe. There is a large selection of carbohydrates, which are mostly in the form of potatoes, and there are numerous healthy vegetables and superfoods including lentils, peas, salmon oil, and flaxseed. It's made with real meat, vegetables, and fruit. This recipe is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's also high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It's made with real beef, vegetables, and fruit. It also contains sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, and flaxseed. This formula provides your German Shepherd puppy with the high protein diet they need for proper development and growth. Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular brands among dog food reviewers. It's included as our last on this list but has ranked high among some of the best dog foods for German Shepherds because it's high in protein and free of grains. What foods are German Shepherds allergic to? German Shepherds are known to be allergic to a variety of things, including wheat, corn, soy, and even some meats. If you're not sure what your German Shepherd is allergic to, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to recommend the best food for your dog based on their specific allergies. If your German Shepherd is having any sort of adverse reaction to their food, such as scratching, biting, or licking themselves excessively, then they may be allergic to something in their food. Consult with your veterinarian if you're not sure what's causing the reaction. What is the best dog food for German Shephard puppies? Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so it's important to find a food that's specifically designed for puppies. Look for a food that has high levels of protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Puppies also need more calories than adult dogs, so make sure the food you choose has a high calorie content. As your puppy grows, they will need less calories and protein, so you'll need to switch to a food that's designed for adult dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your German Shepherd puppy. What is the best food for an adult German Shepherd? The best food for an adult German Shepherd is a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed of dog is known for its high energy levels and need for exercise, so a food that can help them maintain their energy levels is important. A diet that is too low in calories can cause your German Shepherd to become overweight or obese, which can lead to health problems. When choosing a food for your German Shepherd, it is important to read the label carefully and choose a food that is right for their age, weight, and activity level. Can a German Shepherd drink milk? Yes, German Shepherds can drink milk. Milk is a good source of calcium and other nutrients that are important for this breed of dog. However, it is important to choose a low-fat or skim milk to avoid adding unnecessary calories to their diet. What is the best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy? The best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy is to start them on a diet that is high in protein and fat. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, so it is important to choose a food that will give them the nutrition they need without making them overweight. As your German Shepherd puppy grows, you can slowly transition them to an adult dog food. It is important to make sure that they are getting the right amount of calories and nutrients for their age, weight, and activity level. What are some common health problems German Shepherds face? Some common health problems German Shepherds face include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. This breed of dog is also susceptible to obesity, so it is important to choose a food that will help them maintain a healthy weight. German Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, so a food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is important for this breed of dog. What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd? The life expectancy of a German Shepherd is between nine and thirteen years. This breed of dog is known for being a healthy and hardy breed, but there are some health problems that can shorten their lifespan. It is important to feed your German Shepherd a diet that will help them maintain their health and keep them at a healthy weight to help ensure a long and happy life. Is it OK to put a raw egg in dog food? The answer is complicated. While some experts believe that raw eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, others believe that they can be dangerous. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. If you decide to feed your dog raw eggs, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the eggs are fresh. Second, only feed your dog eggs that have been properly refrigerated. Finally, don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs. If you're still not sure whether or not to feed your dog raw eggs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you make the best decision for your pet. What are the benefits of raw eggs for dogs? There are a few potential benefits of feeding raw eggs to dogs. Some people believe that raw eggs can help increase a dog's energy levels, improve their coat, and even help with joint pain. While there is some anecdotal evidence to support these claims, there is no scientific evidence that raw eggs offer any health benefits for dogs. Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Dog Food Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet's health and well-being. With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your furry friend. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision, we have established a set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and the specific nutritional needs of dogs. Ingredients Quality: High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish, to support your dog's muscle development and overall health. Whole Grains and Vegetables: Whole grains and vegetables should be included to provide essential carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Absence of Fillers and Artificial Additives: No Fillers: The best dog food should not contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which offer limited nutritional value and may cause allergies. No Artificial Additives: It should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can harm your dog's health over time. Meat Meal vs. Whole Meat: Preference for Whole Meat: Whole meat sources are preferred over meat meals or by-products, as they are less processed and retain more nutritional value. Digestibility and Allergen Consideration: Hypoallergenic Options: For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens like poultry or grains should be available. High Digestibility: The dog food should be highly digestible to ensure your pet absorbs the maximum nutrients from each meal. Life Stage Appropriateness: Age and Size-Specific Formulations: The best dog food should offer formulations tailored to your dog's life stage puppy, adult, senior and size small, medium, large. Transparency and Sourcing: Transparent Labeling: Brands should provide transparent information about ingredient sourcing and processing methods. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: A commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients reflects a brand's responsibility toward animal welfare and the environment. Health Benefits and Special Considerations: Support for Special Health Needs: The best dog food may offer formulations to address specific health concerns, such as joint health, dental care, or weight management. Customer Feedback and Reviews: Positive User Experiences: Customer feedback and reviews are valuable indicators of a product's performance, safety, and palatability. Price and Value: Affordability: The cost of the dog food should be reasonable and commensurate with its quality and ingredients, offering good value for pet owners. Recall History and Safety: Safety Record: Brands with a history of recalls or safety issues should be viewed with caution, as the safety of your pet is paramount. But with our list of the 25 best dog foods for German Shepherds in , you can rest assured that you're giving your furry friend the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. When choosing dog food, consider factors such as your dog's age, size, activity level, any allergies or sensitivities, and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. What is the difference between dry and wet dog food? Dry dog food kibble is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Wet dog food contains more moisture and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Some owners choose to feed a combination for variety. Is homemade dog food a good option? Homemade dog food can be an option but requires careful research and balance to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. How can I tell if a dog food is of high quality? Look for high-quality protein sources, whole grains and vegetables, minimal fillers and additives, and adherence to AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Checking customer reviews and consulting experts can also help. Should I choose a dog food based on my dog's breed? While some breed-specific formulas exist, it's more important to consider your dog's individual needs, age, and size when selecting dog food. What should I do if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities? If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consult your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods. Is grain-free dog food a better choice? Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily better. While some dogs may benefit from grain-free options, it's essential to ensure the food still provides balanced nutrition, as some grain-free diets have been associated with certain health issues. How often should I feed my dog, and in what portion sizes? Feeding frequency and portion sizes depend on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent meals. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust based on your dog's needs. Can I mix different brands or types of dog food? Mixing different brands or types of dog food can be done, but it should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best way to transition your dog to a new diet. Should I be concerned about recalls when choosing dog food? Yes, it's important to stay informed about recalls. Check the FDA and manufacturer websites regularly for recall information. Brands with a history of recalls may be worth avoiding. What is the role of my veterinarian in selecting dog food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food based on your pet's specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. How can I ensure my dog stays hydrated when feeding dry dog food? Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Wetting the dry food or incorporating wet food into the diet can also increase moisture intake. Can I give my dog human food as part of their diet? While some human foods are safe for dogs, it's essential to know which ones are and to avoid potentially toxic foods. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding human food to your dog's diet. Remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and open communication about your dog's diet are key to ensuring their health and well-being. Related Content.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppy diet: newborn For a German Shepherd puppy to develop and grow properly, it is imperative that they first nurse on their mother's milk. The first milk they receive is a protein and antibody-rich type of milk known as colostrum. This gives the puppy's immune and central nervous systems a boost. They then progress on to regular breast milk. Puppies will nurse for at least 6 to 8 weeks, gradually being weaned on to solid food at about 4 weeks. If, for any reason, the puppy cannot suckle its mother, don't give them cow or goat milk. These milks are very poor quality in comparison to a puppy's mother's milk. If your German shepherd puppy has to be prematurely weaned, a veterinarian will be able to prescribe specific infant formula and establish the appropriate dosage for your puppy. For example, a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd should not be fed the same food. This is because hese breeds have different nutritional needs. Take a look here to find out more about the diet for a prematurely weaned puppy. German Shepherd puppy diet: 1 month old From 3 to 4 weeks old, when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd puppy, we should start by letting them taste new foods and flavors. At this stage, the German Shepherd puppy's diet plan requires them to eat a special wet food for puppies. At around 6 to 8 weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy should be given a little dry dog food with water, or unseasoned chicken stock between nursing sessions. From their eighth week onward, a German Shepherd should be weaned and start feeding on solid food with a special puppy feed. The best dog food for a German Shepherd puppy is breed specific, but this may not be available everywhere. In these cases, your veterinarian can create a proper food plan for your German Shepherd puppy. At this stage, milk must be removed from the puppy's diet as it could cause diarrhea. If by any chance your dog or puppy is suffering from a bad stomach, we recommend taking a look at our article on what to do if yourt dog has diarrhea. In addition, it is vital that puppies have constant access to clean fresh water. German Shepherd puppy diet: 2 months old At two months of age, you can start to slowly decrease the moistening of your German Shepherd's dry food. Eventually, the puppy will be used to eating the food completely dry. Following the German Shepherd puppy food chart, from 2 until 4 months old, a puppy will eat 4 or 5 times a day. This has to be carried out with one very important addition: discipline. A puppy needs to learn that it will not be fed constantly throughout the day, but at specific times. We start of by placing a bowl of food down for 10 minutes, this should give the puppy enough time to finish its meal. After 10 minutes, we suggest taking the bowl of food away, even if your puppy hasn't finished eating. A puppy's food bowl must only be available to the dog for 10 minutes. This 10 minutes should be enough time for the puppy to eat all of its provided food. As already mentioned, after 10 minutes, you should take the food bowl away, even if the puppy hasn't finished eating. This pattern will introduce the puppy's food schedule and allow it an opportunity to become accustomed to particular feeding times. Accepting and adapting to a diet plan is very important for a puppy's intellectual development. It also facilitates more complex and demanding training sessions. Food for German shepherd puppies should be higher in calories, fats, proteins and calcium than adult German Shepherd dog food. This is because puppies are still growing and developing and therefore need better nutrition. German Shepherd puppy diet: food plan after 4 months Between 4 and 6 months of age, the number of meals which we have detailed in our German Shepherd puppy food chart should be reduced to 3 a day. The food quantity should be increased and an extra margin of 2 minutes to eat should be provided. The packaging of quality commercial dog food will detail the appropriate suggested amount of food for the puppy, depending on its age and weight. If you have any doubts, consult your veterinarian. You should eventually start mixing fresh food, such as meat, fish or vegetables, with the commercial dry feed. Beware of forbidden foods for dogs. Some people ask about a raw diet for a German shepherd puppy, but we recommend these such foods should always be cooked and never given to a dog raw. Meanwhile, treats for dogs should only be used as positive reinforcement during their training and learning period, never as a food supplement. Under no circumstances should you give your German Shepherd, or any dog, human food leftovers. Human food contains salt, sugar and seasoning contents which are very harmful to a dog's health. In addition, if you do offer your dog your food, it will pester you during meals [1]. For more, take a look at some of the harmful effects of treating a dog like a human. German Shepherd puppy diet: after 6 months When your German Shepherd puppy reaches 6 months of age, its daily food intake should be reduced to twice a day. When we do this we can increase the food portions and eating time accordingly. Our German Shepherd diet chart below should be taken into account depending on the age, lifestyle and size of your German Shepherd puppy. After 6 months, you should give your German Shepherd puppy shatterproof bones, such as beef, to gnaw on. For more, take a look here for more about; Bones For Puppies. German shepherd puppy: Dog food and water bowl hygiene Your puppy's food and drink containers should always be clean. Hygiene is very important in order to prevent the appearance of insects. If you notice that your puppy has not eaten for three consecutive meals, consult your veterinarian immediately. This lack of appetite in a puppy could be caused by bowel obstruction and stomach pain; due to the ingestion of toxic food etc. Don't forget that puppies are very sensitive and fragile and if you ignoring any symptoms of disease, it can result in severe issues or even puppy fatality. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppies should be socialized and trained to live with you from day one. These dogs are incredibly capable and have the ability, if trained properly, to learn tricks and perform activities [2]. In addition to the diet of a German Shepherd, don't forget the importance of preventative medicines, following the appropriate vaccination schedules and general German Shepherd dog care. For more information about your German shepherd, take a look at.So, how many times a day should you feed your German Shepherd? German Shepherds should be fed at least twice a day. Vets recommend two smaller meals instead of one large meal for healthy digestion and energy. For puppies, feed 4 meals a day up to three months old, then 3 meals a day up to six months old, before finally reducing to 2 meals a day. It is essential to stick to food schedules that are consistent for the long-term health of your German Shepherd, especially as the breed is prone to the life-threatening condition, Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus GDV , commonly known as bloat. This article will cover how often to feed a German Shepherd whether puppy or adult and how much to give your dog to keep him healthy and happy. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. My German Shepherd Willow eating her meal Hey! As a working breed raised to herd and protect sheep, they are typically energetic, enjoy physical activity, and love having a job to do. Due to their dynamic character, they demand a high-energy diet. However, as large, deep-chested dogs, they are one of the breeds prone to bloat GDV , and vets advise against feeding one large meal a day. Twice per day is the standard, with a good few hours in between, as it allows your GSD to eat and digest his food properly. German Shepherds, like most dogs, work well when fed on a schedule. I absolutely agree with this, especially as the German Shepherd is susceptible to a sensitive stomach and is known to have more digestive problems than other breeds. However, if you have any concerns, you should speak to your vet. If you have a high-energy or working German Shepherd, such as a guard dog, assistance dog, or Police or Military dog that gets a lot of exercise, you may consider feeding little and often to prevent hunger. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Schedule German Shepherd puppies will require more frequent feedings as they expend far more energy and have smaller stomachs to hold their food. You should feed a German Shepherd puppy four meals a day between 6 and 12 weeks old. Puppies aged between 12 and 24 weeks should have three meals a day, and from 24 weeks onwards, German Shepherd puppies should be fed twice per day. Age of Puppy. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

Location: Mount Airy, Maryland 4. They prioritize personality and breed health and strive to create well-adjusted hypoallergenic Labradoodles. Brown Australian Labradoodle puppy with blue eyes looks to his side. Their puppies are raised in-home and receive a thorough socialization experience from a young age. The breeders have over 20 years of breeding experience, and one has worked as a registered veterinary nurse. Dogs not raised on the property enjoy a guardianship program. The intention is always to give these dogs as much space as possible to live a well-rounded and happy dog life. Additionally, all the Autumn Lane dogs undergo rigorous testing before breeding. They take special care to eliminate breed-specific problems like hip dysplasia from their bloodlines. The adoption process is transparent, and all their paperwork is viewable through the website. At six weeks, Autumn Lane desexes, microchips, and deworms their puppies. They also administer the first round of vaccines. The puppies can then be rehomed at eight weeks old. To make your life easier, Autumn Lane begins potty training and crate training their puppies before they leave the breeder. However, they recognize that puppies can be challenging, especially for new dog owners. Consequently, their website offers extensive resources to help you through the early days. Contact Details:. The Labradoodle has these qualities too. This makes them the perfect family pet. Unfortunately, not all breeders care about producing healthy canines or matching their dogs with suitable owners. Here are five signs to look for when searching for a breeder. Look for a breeder that breeds only one specific kind of mix—like the Labradoodle. Choose a breeder who is unwilling to meet or speak with you about their dogs. They should be eager to answer your questions over the phone and via email. Check out each dog yourself before leaving with a pup. Avoid breeders who keep their dogs in cages or kennels. Dogs kept in these conditions can become neurotic and destructive. Beware of breeders who offer puppies at a very low price. This could signify that the breeder is not breeding for quality but profit. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Bel Air Maryland and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. We only breed Australian Labradoodles. We are intentionally small, exclusive, and family-owned. It is our focus to protect the health and future of this breed. Our carefully planned breeding program is dedicated to quality, not quantity. We have a limited number of litters a year and take great pride in breeding these outstanding family companions, for a therapy dog temperament and a teddy bear personality. They are intelligent, intuitive, allergy and asthma friendly, with non-shedding coats. They are affectionate, lovable and make devoted family members. Our puppies are born in our home, in a warm and loving environment with many hands to help. Puppies have started potty-training and crate training before they go to their new families to help with a smooth transition. Puppies are well socialized with children and other dogs, playing, romping and exposed to many different stimuli, so they are emotionally well adjusted. All puppies are vet checked, dewormed, vaccinated and microchipped. Puppies are placed with temperament testing to ensure the best match with each family. Our dogs live in our home or with our trusted guardian families, living their best lives. In addition, they also have their DNA profiles run for positive identification. All our dogs live in our home or with our trusted guardian families. They all achieve the Canine Good Citizen award by 18 months of age. They are our constant companions, well loved and living their best life as we think they should. These admirable qualities among many others make them perfect family pets. They are active, smart and desire to be engaged with the humans they love and live with. They are very eager to please, making them well suited as spoilt family members, therapy dogs and assistance dogs. They are very loving, smart and the make best friends ever. Their eagerness to please and soulful nature makes them ideal as a family pet or for therapy work. They are full of cuddles, fun and faithful. They display a keen intuition about the emotional state of family members. They are non-shedding and allergy-friendly. Coats can be wavy, straight or curly. Our Guardian Program Our breeding dogs are the heart and soul of what we do, and to ensure we are doing the best for them, we want all our dogs to live in wonderful happy homes as treasured members of the family. Our guardian program is a partnership between us and chosen families which allows our dogs to live freely in loving homes with their forever people. Sonali took the time to get to know our situation and make suggestions that ultimately turned out to be right on target. Our family received very personal attention so that our dream puppy could become a reality. We love that big fur ball so much! He has been really easy to train, listens well, and has adapted to our family very nicely. Our experience with Cornerstone was flawless. Olive is such an incredible puppy and we are so blessed to have her. The puppy preparation info and class were very helpful.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. Abstract Background Weight at birth is an important predictor of neonatal mortality and morbidity in dogs. In addition, the birthweight of the puppies in a litter influences the decision to perform a cesarean section. The goal of the present study was to estimate heritabilities for the puppy birth weight in Labrador retrievers. Results Of the Labrador retriever litters whelped at the Guiding Eye for the Blind between September and February , were included in the analyses after data editing. Puppy weight at birth was the target trait, measured on a continuous scale in pounds, and converted to grams. Linear mixed models were used to identify factors influencing puppy weight at birth. The analyses showed that the sex of the puppy, litter size, length of gestation, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficient of the puppies and dams contributed to the variance of the puppy birth weight. Dam and litter effects were included as random effects. A multiple trait derivative free restricted maximum likelihood approach was used to estimate variance components and genetic parameters with two animal models, one without covariates Model 1 and one with covariates Model 2. Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects. Estimates for Model 1 and Model 2 were 0. Conclusions In order to estimate reliable breeding values for puppy weight at birth, sex of puppy, litter size, length of gestation and the adult weight of the dam should be included. Estimates could benefit from weighing the dams prior to each mating. Background The size or weight of puppies at birth is an important parameter, which influences neonatal mortality and morbidity and is a predictor of puppy survival [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. After a physiological weight loss within the first three days post-partum the growth curve reverses and birth weight is doubled after two weeks [ 4 ]. Breeders should weigh the puppies daily for at least the first three weeks [ 5 ] and provide each puppy with an individual feeder bowl. In this way, problem puppies are recognized early and the breeder may seek advice from a veterinarian. A recent publication proposes health monitoring for newborn puppies by assessing blood and other parameters to reduce neonatal losses [ 6 ]. Factors with an influence on the birthweight have been reviewed for domestic animals [ 7 ]. Among them are year and season of birth, sex, age and diet of the dam and fetal environment. Possible influences on gestation length in dogs including breed, litter size, parental age and size or parity have been investigated in different breeds [ 2 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 ], but were not conclusive. A recent genome-wide association study revealed six canine SNPs associated with gestation length [ 14 ], which may lead to the identification of genetic variants influencing this trait. Birth weight is not only determined by the genetic makeup of the offspring and its environment, but also by the maternal genetic composition and environment provided by the dam [ 15 ]. Estimates for genetic parameters for the birth weight in dogs are scarce. Nielen and coworkers [ 16 ] estimated the direct heritability for birth weight in Boxers to be 0. Helmink and coworkers estimated direct heritabilities for German shepherds GS and Labrador retrievers LR to be in the range of 0. In the same study the maternal additive genetic heritabilities were estimated to be in the range of 0. Estimation of maternal effects may improve breeding value estimation. Guiding Eyes for the Blind is a non-for profit organization that breeds and trains mostly LR and a few GS to provide guide dogs to people who are blind or have visual impairment. The breeding strategy and detailed procedures of Guiding Eyes for the Blind have been described [ 18 ]. The aim of the present study was to identify factors that influence puppy weight at birth which can provide insights for improvement in the Guiding Eyes for the Blind breeding program. Results To reliably estimate parameters levels of covariates with less than 30 litters were not included in the analyses. As a result of this restriction, 91 litters with a litter size smaller than four puppies or larger than eleven puppies, 15 litters with a gestation length shorter than 56 days or longer than 63 days and 19 litters with parities larger than six were dropped, leaving litters with puppies in the study. The average puppy weight was g, and males were heavier g than females g. The fixed effects of season of birth of the litter, inbreeding coefficient of the sire, as well as adult weight of the sire did not have a significant effect on PWB in LR. Table 1 Effects influencing the individual birth weight of puppies. Comparison of the variance components of a model without covariates Model 1 and a model with covariates 2. The direct-maternal covariance was held at zero Full size table Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects Table 1. Estimates of variance components Table 1 and genetic parameters Table 2 for PWB are shown for models 1 and 2. To make the individual effects of the covariates model 2 more tangible, detailed information about their magnitude are given in Additional file 1. Table 2 Proportions of variance components influencing the individual birth weight of puppies. Comparison of the variance components of a model without covariates 1 and a model with covariates 2. The aim was to measure the genetic correlation between the two traits Additional file 2. The genetic correlations of the direct effects as well as the one of the maternal effects reached almost unity. These results indicate that the architecture of the direct as well as the maternal additive genetic effects of PWB should be very similar in both sexes. These findings allowed for jointly analyzing the PWB of both sexes and to run a univariate mixed animal model with sex as covariate. Discussion Birth weight is a complex trait and influenced by many factors. PWB and post-natal weight gain are important parameters to recognize problem neonates and puppies deviating from normal development, respectively. Variation in size is desirable for Guiding Eyes for the Blind client placements. Dogs provided to people who are blind or visually impaired and also have difficulties with balance require a larger dog to aid in stability. In contrast, many guide dog users prefer a smaller more compact dog to easily fit in smaller spaces available when using commercial means of transportation. However, too heavy or too large guide dogs may be a hazard for the user [ 17 ]. Avoiding the birth of puppies with extreme birth weights is desirable in dog breeding and enhances welfare of the animals in general. In dogs, season of birth was associated with risk for cardiovascular disease risk [ 21 ] and fertility in bitches kept in tropic countries [ 22 ], however, the authors are not aware of any work reporting a seasonal effect on PBW. This is in contrast to findings in humans where the season of birth was strongly associated with birthweight and adult weight, as well as health outcomes in later life [ 23 ]. Seasonal effects on birth weight were found in horse or sheep [ 24 , 25 ]. Sex of the individual affected birth weight in LR. On average, female puppies were 24 g lighter than male puppies. This effect of the sex of an individual confirms the results of earlier studies in the dog [ 3 , 16 , 26 ] and may reflect physiological differences between the sexes. In our data a genetical sex dimorphism could not be detected. As in full sib families dominance effects could affect the estimation of additive genetic effects [ 27 , 28 ] we also investigated possible dominance effects in our data using WOMBAT together with the R-package NADIV [ 27 ]. With the same approach we also assessed possible sex chromosomal influences usually not considered in variance component analyses. Our data revealed neither substantial dominance effects nor sex-linked effects Additional file 3. The antagonistic relation between litter size and PWB is well known for domestic animals [ 7 ]. In LR, an increase of the litter size by one puppy resulted in a moderate decrease of PBW of 11 g in average confirming results of earlier studies in the dog [ 3 , 16 , 29 , 30 ]. However, the effect was small with an increase of about 6 g for an additional day in the length of gestation. Whereas the adult weight of the sire did not influence PWB in LR, offspring of heavier dams showed a slightly higher PWB, on average by 5 g per kg adult weight, which confirms a previous report [ 3 ]. In a study of Great Danes with a rather restricted data set, the maternal and paternal adult weight had a positive effect on the PBW. Furthermore, higher adult weight of the sire increased neonatal weight gain in this breed [ 29 ]. In LR, up to about parity two to three the PWB in LR increased about 4 g in a linear fashion whereas from about parity two to three to parity six the PWB decreased about 4 g in a non-linear fashion. A similar observation was made in humans [ 31 ]. Although the PWB was fluctuating over the years there was a very small increase of 2 g per year from to .It is well known, that the year of birth may lead to variation of the birth weight by differences in the climate, management and selection of breeding animals in domestic species [ 7 ]. The reason for this very small increase of PWB in LR remains unclear but may be related to the selection of breeding animals. Inbreeding may affect many traits including birth weight [ 32 ] and litter size [ 33 ] in domestic animal species. In the present study, PBW was only marginally influenced by the inbreeding coefficient. Inbreeding of the puppies and the dam had very small but opposite effects. The residual variances are not different but the environmental variance of the litter in model 2 is less than half of that in model 1 and the direct genetic variance in model 2 is close to half of that in model 1. The differences of the maternal genetic variance and the environmental variance of the dam are much less pronounced between the two models. These observations are reflected in the estimates of heritabilities and proportions Table 2. The maternal heritability 0. The residual is larger in model 2 due to the smaller total variance. In Boxers, estimates for heritability of birthweight corrected for litter effects and sex were much higher 0. This discrepancy may be explained by the fact that for our study maternal effects were included in the models. Helmink and coworkers estimated heritabilities for birthweight in German shepherd dogs and LR [ 17 ] by using the following bivariate models: birth weight — 42 days weight and birth weight - mature weight accounting for the litter. For birthweight in LR they found similar direct genetic heritabilities 0. Our results suggest that the inclusion of covariates may lead to better estimates although standard errors of heritabilities and proportions are only marginally smaller in model 2 than in model 1. However, the knowledge benefits anyone especially the working dog community who wants to investigate birth weight in a specific population, canine or not, or improve the situation with respect to birth weight in specific populations. Results suggest that the inclusion of covariates in the model improves the estimates of variance components. The magnitude of the heritabilities indicates that estimation of breeding values could improve breeding program with respect to PWB. Whether our findings help to improve the situation with respect to the stabilization of PWB in guide dogs depends heavily on how they can be implemented in a breeding strategy that is focused on the guiding abilities of the dogs. To evaluate the impact of our results on the general LR population, reliable data on PWB need to be collected. Most of the covariates included in model 2 could also be recorded in the field. The target trait, individual puppy weight at birth PWB was measured in pounds and converted to grams. The final data set comprised puppies in litters by dams and sires, born from September to February Additional file 4. Potential predictors were chosen based on literature [ 4 , 11 , 26 , 29 , 36 , 37 ]. Breed, a well-known factor influencing PBW [ 6 ] was not relevant for the present study because all animals were LR. The diet of the dam during pregnancy can influence the birth weight of puppies [ 26 ], but was not included in the analyses, because keepers of pregnant dams adhere to the feeding regime recommended by the Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Descriptive statistics for PWB and variables in the analyses are given in Additional file 5. Prior to the estimation of variance components, the significance of factors was evaluated and correlations between explanatory variables estimated Additional file 6. Litter size ranged from 4 to .Litters with less than four puppies and litters with twelve or more puppies were excluded from the analyses. Parity ranging from 1 to 6 and parity squared, as well as length of gestation were included. Litters with gestation lengths shorter than 56 days or longer than 63 days were excluded. Litters after cesarean sections were included in the analyses, because the gestation time was known. Year of birth was a possible predictor and encompassed the years to .Further possible predictors were the inbreeding coefficients of the puppies and their parents, as well as the sex of the puppies. Finally, adult weight of the dam was measured in pounds then converted to kg. Model 1 contained no covariates, because covariates are not always easily recorded in the field, and Model 2 included the covariates identified to influence PWB Additional file 7. The covariance between direct and maternal genetic effects fluctuated around zero and was never different from zero. Therefore, it was fixed at zero for both models. For both models the following variance components were estimated: direct genetic variance, maternal genetic variance, maternal environmental variance, environmental variance by the litter and residual variance. Can you tell how big a puppy will get? Your puppy will be growing very fast when you first bring them home. But that growth rate slows down quite quickly. So when do dogs stop growing for good? And how will you know when your puppy has reached their adult size? Labrador Puppy Growth Chart We have a fascinating and long running thread on our forum, where members enter the weights of their puppies at different ages. The Labrador growth chart below shows the data we have collected, in a Labrador weight chart by age. Labrador dog weight chart by age and breed Each dot represents a snapshot in time of an individual puppy. You can find his or her age in weeks along the bottom of the chart and his weight in pounds up the left hand side. You can see how all the dots taken together follow a pattern, but there is still a considerable range of puppy weights at each age. When Do Dogs Stop Growing? But what about a two year old Lab, or a one year old? Well, in broad terms, dogs stop growing sometime between one and two years old. But it varies between breeds. Most dogs are fully grown by their first birthday. In general small breeds reach their adult height several months before large breeds do. Yet dog size varies greatly among individuals, even within the same breed. Larger dogs are often slower to mature than little dogs, and carry on growing for longer. Small dogs are sometimes fully grown by the time they are 9 months old. Whereas giant breeds can take up to three years to reach full size. Adult size, temperament, and coat type are all likely to affect energy requirements, and affect the rate a puppy grows. In fact even breeds which end up similar in size can grow at very different rates. There is very little scientific research — but a lot of anecdotal evidence — about when Lab puppies stop growing. In , a UK study following 37 Lab puppies through to adulthood revealed that all of them had reached their adult weight by their first birthday. But more recently, a much larger lifestyle study of over 4, UK Labradors found that their weight continued to increase between one and four years old. When Do Labs Stop Growing? The Labrador puppy growth chart finishes when the dog reaches adulthood. General wisdom from breeders, vets, and experiences Labrador owners is that Labs stop growing during their second year. In fact, he will be quite close to his final adult Labrador height at around nine months of age. Does color change the Labrador puppy growth chart? When is a chocolate Lab full grown? Is it the same time that a full grown black Labrador or yellow Lab? So your average chocolate Lab will be adult sizes at the same time as the average yellow or black Lab. How Quickly Do Labradors Grow? Our Labrador puppy growth chart shows that all Labrador puppies follow the same breed specific pattern of growth spurts and slower growth, even though the actual numbers on the scale will vary from individual to individual. The most rapid period of growth will take place in the first month or so after you bring him home. In , a study of Labrador puppies in Norway found that Labrador weight gain is most rapid at 89 days old in females, and 95 days old in males. So around the week mark. And Labradors usually reach half of their adult weight by the time they are 18 or 19 weeks old. How much do Labs grow after 6 months? Another trend you can see in our Labrador puppy growth chart is that Lab puppies gain weight much less rapidly after their 6 month birthday. Once your Lab has hit this milestone you can expect them to gain a little height, and probably continue to fill out for up to a year or so. In other words, the point when you Lab stops getting any taller. It is estimated that in the UK the average height at the shoulders of a male Lab is cm taller than the breed standard. Will my dog still grow after being neutered? Whether or not dogs should be routinely spayed or neutered is a subject which divides opinion. Labrador owners deciding whether and when to neuter usually end up with a lot of questions, few of which have straightforward answers. Many veterinary care providers and shelters advocate neutering at a young age, or even make it a requirement of the adoption contract. A study found that neutering before 37 weeks old is linked to very slightly more rapid growth, and neutering after 37 weeks leads to very slightly slower growth. How big do Labrador Retrievers get? As we all know, very few dogs fit the mathematical average — they are much more likely to occupy a range of normal sizes. But most of us like a more precise answer than that before we commit to sharing our home with a puppy. So, how big do Labs get? Labradors are remarkably variable in height and weight. The biggest male Labs can be almost twice the size of the smallest female ones. But you want me to give you some numbers, so here are some averages. Many adult female Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches high at the shoulder. This will be the same whether they are a female chocolate Lab or a female black Labrador. Many adult male Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches at the shoulder. But remember, your dog is probably not an average dog! Can you always predict size with a Labrador puppy growth chart? These Labrador height and weight numbers are very broad guidelines, and they may give you a rough idea of how big a pup will grow. How big your Labrador will get depends partly on his parents. Assuming that your puppy had healthy not overweight parents, their own weights will give you an idea of how big your Lab is likely to grow. But there are always surprises in any group or family of dogs! Has your puppy stalled on the Labrador puppy growth chart? It is possible that your puppy will weigh less than the average examples. Labrador puppy weight and size can vary widely depending on a number of different factors, many of which are normal and harmless. American Labrador puppy growth Labrador puppies from working stock are often less heavy than those bred for the show ring or pet homes. Dogs bred for hunting and field trials tend to be faster and lighter in build because they are expected to be agile and quick when working in the field. Small parents Size is also partly genetic. In other words, if your puppy had small parents he might well be on the small size for his age, throughout his life. Again, this is only a general guide. Even puppies from the same litter can vary quite considerably in size when plotted on a Labrador puppy growth chart. How much should my Labrador puppy weigh? But this kind of rule of thumb is of limited use, and there are problems with judging whether or not a puppy is thriving by his weight alone. Because it is so difficult to know exactly what size your puppy will be as an adult, no-one can really say what he should weigh today, or any other day. It may however give you an indication if your puppy is seriously under or overweight. It is rare for puppies to have any kind of growth disorder. Or for their families to starve them by mistake! But it is also normal to worry a little if your puppy seems on the small side. Is my puppy is too fat or too thin? The very best guide to whether a puppy is the right weight for him, is how he looks and feels. Not where he falls on an average Labrador puppy growth chart. Physically examining and observing your puppy will help you decide if they are doing ok in this respect. Just like older Labradors, puppies should not be too heavy. Most experts nowadays like to see a waist on even quite young puppies. Does it matter if my puppy is a bit plump? We all used to think that puppy fat was a good thing. When I was a child fat puppies were the norm. Perhaps this extra layer of fat was helpful in sustaining the puppy during illness before vaccinations were widely available for dogs? Nowadays, the thinking is that puppies should be slim. With a defined waist, just like an older dog. It causes their bones to grow too rapidly as well. And this may result in painful skeletal abnormalities in later life. Chubby Lab puppies might be plotted higher than average on the Labrador puppy growth chart, but if they are a shorter stature they could be following the line. You need to assess your pup by how they look and feel. Weighing your puppy If your puppy has been ill and is very thin, or if he has become rather overweight , you might consider weighing him in order to monitor his progress on a Labrador puppy growth chart of your own. If you can see his ribs, or feel them very easily just beneath his skin, your Labrador puppy is too thin. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian. You can show them your Labrador puppy growth chart too, so they have a good idea of how they are progressing. My dog weighs 35lbs at six months old. Is that OK? I mentioned above that an average Labrador might weigh around 50lbs at six months old. But there is huge variation around this figure. To illustrate how much very healthy puppies may vary, there are 6 month old Labs on our forum weighing 30lbs, and others weighing 60lbs! These are very different points on the same Labrador puppy growth chart, but could both be healthy animals. And the truth is, no-one can tell you exactly what your six month old pup should weigh, or indeed your Labrador of any age. What age does a puppy turn into a dog? When does a puppy no longer belong on a Labrador puppy growth chart but instead have reached their adult size? And when will your puppy be a fully grown up dog? There are three aspects to changing from puppy to dog: physical maturity and mental maturity. Sexual maturity in puppies People are often surprised to discover that puppies become sexually mature before they are full grown. These sexually mature pups still belong on the Labrador puppy growth chart, and will gain weight and height. Most Labradors are physically capable of breeding while still puppies. Though of course they should not be allowed to do so. Many female Labradors come into season for the first time between at between six and nine months old. Though some will be over a year old. And most male Labradors are ready and willing to mate well before their first birthday! Mental maturity in puppies Not only is your Labrador physically still a puppy when he or she reaches sexual maturity. He is also very much a puppy mentally and emotionally. In fact, many experts do not consider a Labrador to be fully grown up and mature until they are around two years old. In practice, there is no exact age at which you can definitely say your puppy is a grown up. Some puppies mature mentally and physically quicker than others. As a broad guide, you will often hear people use 18 months as the divide between Labrador puppy and adult dog. When do dogs stop growing? Most Labradors will have completed much of their growth by their first birthday and will stop growing completely before their second. Beyond this point there is no need to plot their weight on a Labrador puppy growth chart, but instead they should just be monitored physically. Weights vary greatly among individuals of this breed and puppy weight unless very extreme, is not a great guide to health. Enjoy your puppy for what he is, large Labrador or small. Just remember to check with your vet if you think he is unwell or not growing as he should. Is your Labrador puppy still growing? Do you think the runt of the litter is going to surprise you by reaching the upper end of the scale? Were your predictions at X months completely confounded? Share your anecdotes in the comments box down below! When weighing your puppies try to be as consistent as possible. Weigh your puppies the same time every day. Weigh your puppies right after feedings. We prefer doing it this way because puppies are usually more docile and easier to weigh. Be consistent with your weighings and it will be much easier to analyze your puppy weight chart. When we have a litter of newborn puppies we weigh each puppy every day for the first 8 weeks as you can see in the above puppy weight chart. So, just look at the above chart and you can see how much each puppy gained each day. Somedays I weighed the pups before feeding and some days after. If a puppy does not gain or loses weight one day then monitor him very closely and make sure he gains weight the next day. Yes, yes we did. First, you have to join our email list to get access to our Resource Library. Conclusion Okay guys and gals, does that answer your questions? However, you might take the information with a grain of salt. Be consistent when weighing your puppies. Thus you see days of huge weight gains and the following day very little gains. If a puppy is not gaining or losing weight then monitor him closely and consider taking him to the vet if he continues to lose weight. Have you ever cared for newborn puppies? Do you keep a puppy weight chart when raising a litter of puppies? Do you have any tips for weighing and tracking your puppies? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. This information is for entertainment purposes only. If you have questions about your dogs or puppies please consult with your veterinarian. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining. Possible Common Thus, a black or yellow Labrador can belong to either breed. It is more likely for chocolate or white Labrador to belong to the English Labrador breed, and it is more likely for a fox red Labrador to belong to the American breed. Singe English Labradors frequently weigh more than American Labradors; these colors may give insight into heritage lines and reasons for differentiating weights. Physical Condition Even though these figures are universal amongst Labradors, it can be challenging to decide whether your Labrador is healthy solely based on weight. Fitness and physical capacities will have a considerable influence on whether or not their weight is healthy. Many Labradors may be over or under the healthy weight range, but they may be fit and active. This means they may weigh less due to being lean and toned without much body fat, or they may weigh more due to increased muscle mass. To assess the health of your Labrador , their weight will need to be compared with their fitness levels as well. Labrador Gender Weight Differences Generally speaking, male Labradors weigh more than female Labradors since males grow faster and typically grow larger than females would. While Labrador puppies may have similar figures on the scale at very young ages, their average weight may begin to diverge as they draw closer to the cusp of adulthood. Average Labrador Puppy Weight Irrespective of the breed and gender, ensuring a healthy weight as your Lab ages will rely on observation and care from a very young age. Weight is typically very similar during this time irrespective of differentiation, affecting their average healthy weight ranges into adulthood. They should be gaining approximately 2lbs per week up until they are 6 months old. Once Labrador puppies reach adolescence, inherent differentiations will begin to affect their average weight, after which owners will need to assess their weight maintenance according to their breed and gender. However, gender plays a prominent role in determining healthy weight in maturing Labrador puppies, and males typically weigh more and grow faster than females. Owners will need to ensure that their weight is maintained through exercise and adequate dietary compositions. Nutrition, physical activity, and a balanced diet will all play a role in supporting a healthy weight as they grow into full adult Labradors. How much should a Purebred Lab weigh? Purebred Labradors still experience a diverse range concerning their weight. However, numerous purebred Labrador owners have come together and created an average healthy weight range from adolescence to adulthood, based on experience with their fit and healthy purebred Labradors whether male or female. Labrador Age months.

Check Price It is no hidden fact that Victorian Bulldogs have wrinkly faces that require frequent cleaning to avoid any infections or irritations. To thoroughly clean your dog, you need to bathe him once or twice a week. Use a damp cloth, cotton balls, or baby wipes to clean the area. Baby wipes with aloe are a good option because aloe soothes and moisturizes the skin, or you can mix water and dog shampoo. If you use a shampoo , mix a tiny drop in a cup of warm water, and apply with a brush. Use a cotton ball to dab the solution onto the wrinkles. When you are done with the cleaning, make sure to thoroughly clean the skin to avoid any irritation. Check Price Nail Trimming Victorian Bulldogs do not require frequent nail trimming—as they wear them off naturally. However, be careful while doing so as inserting the swab too deep could damage the ear and lead to other complications. Repeat the steps once or twice a week. Additionally, Brush their teeth and gums with enzyme toothpaste every day to prevent dental diseases. This aids in the prevention of tartar buildup, which causes gum disease and tooth decay. Exercise The victorian Bulldogs are non-working dogs which means they require moderate activity levels. They are a low-energy breed that enjoys playing but does not require a lot of exercises. You will only need to walk these puppies once or twice a day for 20 to 30 minutes. They are an ideal choice for those who live in smaller homes with small yards. As Victorian Bulldogs are extremely intelligent, they enjoy playing games, especially with the younger members of the household. Keeping the dogs mentally stimulated will keep them from becoming bored. They would enjoy playing frisbee, chasing a ball, or even participating in brain games. However, there are certain health conditions these dogs are susceptible to, including: Skin Problems The Victorian Bulldogs are susceptible to skin infections and irritations such as eczema, dermatitis, swelling, and hot spots caused by bug bites and other skin irritants. Using medicated shampoo when washing their skin on a regular basis is the best way to prevent skin problems. Obesity These dogs are also prone to obesity as they usually overeat or are lazy to exercise. However, obesity can lead to several other health complications like hip and elbow dysplasia and breathing difficulties. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia The Victorian Bulldogs have the robust build of an English Bulldog, which increases their risk of joint and bone problems. Obesity also plays a role in this condition. Dysplasia occurs when the bones in the hip and elbow do not fit snugly into their respective joints. It causes pain and intolerance to exercise. Cherry Eye Vision problems such as the Cherry eye are common among aging dogs which appears as a bulging red bump at the eye corner. It is caused by an enlarged and prolapsing gland at the third eyelid. Even though, you can not totally stop this from affecting your Victorian Bulldog, having frequent checkups with a vet can prevent it from happening too soon. Overheating Just like the English Bulldog, Victorian Bulldogs are brachycephalic—skull bones are shorter giving the face and nose a pushed-in appearance. Due to this, the dog may have difficulty panting effectively while working out. This is why you must ensure that your Victorian Bulldog is not living in an environment too hot and that he is not over-exercising. You would also eventually figure out if your dog is allergic to certain food items. There are certain ingredients and factors you must keep in mind before opting for food packets for your pooch. Animal-based Protein In the first five listed ingredients of your dog food, there should be an animal-based protein source e. One of those proteins should ideally be in the first position, as this position usually indicates the main ingredient. Dogs will eat almost anything, but because they are primarily carnivores, you must ensure that they are fed meat as the main ingredient. Preservatives Before opting for the perfect food for your dog, it is important to understand the preservatives included in them. Preservatives are used to prevent food from spoiling. There are two types of preservatives—natural and chemical. They would break down when exposed to light or air. Filler When buying dog food, another factor to consider is the filler—use to bulk up the food. Not only should the food be mostly meat rather than filler, but some dogs are allergic to certain fillers because they often contain additives that are not healthy for dogs to eat. Corn is a cheap filler that is commonly used in dog foods Wheat and soy grains are also popular, but they can cause allergic reactions Rice is a popular option as it causes fewer allergic reactions What Can I Buy? 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. 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. Although most people get confused with the Olde Victorian Bulldogge, these two are a completely different breed. This dog is an apartment dog and does well indoors with moderate exercise regularly. It does well in a moderate climate as they cannot tolerate either hot or too cold climate. The Victorian Bulldog is slightly taller than the English Bulldog with a broad head, wide muzzle and short nose that has pushed in appearance. The eyes are round, set apart and dark in color. The chest is deep and their body is muscular and strong. It was bred by a man named Ken Mollett, who was an enthusiast of Bulldogs. The original purpose of breeding Victorian Bulldog was to keep it as a companion dog for families. An old picture of Early 19th-century Victorian Bulldogs. Is Victorian Bulldog Child-friendly? The Victorian Bulldog is a friendly dog that gets along with children very well. They like kids and loves to play with them and with unfamiliar children too. Victorian Bulldog with two small boys. They are friendly with all human being and are not at all aggressive. It will alert its owner of any unusual activities in the area and warn them by barking. Therefore, they make a great watchdog. Behavior: The Victorian Bulldog thrives for the company of their family and seeks their attention. If you leave them alone without any human interaction, they will show their destructive nature. They start to chew on stuff and start barking. Therefore, it is best not to leave your Victorian Bulldog alone for a long time. Personality: The Victorian Bulldog, though seems like an aggressive dog, they have a very docile and calm personality. They do not get aggressive easily and are friendly with people. However, they do not do well with other pets as they tend to have dominant nature over them. Training them together with other pets and early socialization can help them get along well. Trainability Training Victorian Bulldog is not for an inexperienced dog owner who is not familiar with dogs temperament and behavior. They are of dominant nature, so the owner should establish a firm and consistent leadership upon them. They should be treated with kindness and gentleness. Do not use force hand on them as it may lead to their aggression. Reward them with delicious treats and vocal praises as to motivate them. Facts The Victorian Bulldog comes in the list of the popular breeds. It has a high tendency to get overheat. They cannot perform any activity for a long time and get overheated soon. Health Issues. 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 grants dog fanciers a chance to have a larger, healthier, more athletic, and more muscular version of an English Bulldog. It is a fantastic family dog, sweet, playful, and great for older and young families. Although Victorian Bulldogs were designed to impose a fierce expression, they are a happy, hearty, loyal breed that serves lots of sloppy kisses. Plus, it is low maintenance! You might want to keep reading. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Victorian Bulldogs are loving, and rare dogs that are generally healthy, and great with families with children or for individuals with yards in their homes. These dogs look stoic and grumpy, which is true. However, they are kind, loving, with a touch of kindness. Their playful nature, robust builds, and patience around kids make them excellent playmates. Victorian Bulldogs are also affectionate and would love it if you reciprocate. You should see how much they love cuddles and belly scratches! Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are affectionate, reliable sweethearts that thrive on human attention and companionship. Your dog will be at its best if it snuggles with you on a couch all day. Another thing about Victorian Bulldogs is that they are courageous and have protective instincts, which means you and your family will always be safe. This dog is also patient and naturally gentle with children and will be happy if they climb all over it. However, they still have a breaking point, so you need to teach your kids about boundaries. The Victorian Bulldog is slobbery, snores, and drools a little bit. However, they are loving and loyal companions that will love sharing moments with you. These pets thrive in multi-pet households and can tolerate other dogs, making them complete family dogs. However, before you bring it home, there are things about it you need to know. However, try not to offer it too much meat-only diet because the bones, intestines, and stomach components mimic too much of their primitive dietary habits. It would also be best to remember that Bull breeds cannot tolerate excess proteins in their diet as it might cause hot spots. However, feeding a raw diet to your Bulldog requires you to have a basic understanding of nutrition. So, if you are an inexperienced owner, it would be best to consult a veterinarian for help. Or, you can just stick to nutritious commercial dry dog food. They prefer to be couch potatoes when they are indoors. However, you still need to offer them regular exercise every day if you want them to be happy, healthy, and thrive. This dog can adapt to an apartment lifestyle. You should also take it out for moderate walks a day and provide it off-leash time in a safe park a few times a week. These breeds have a short snout, so they get overheated quickly. Unfortunately, most owners subject them to dominance training because they are a Bull breed when the exact opposite is true. These dogs do not respond to any form of force-based training or dominance. Instead, Victorian Bulldogs are responsive to reward-based training, especially with a clicker. Clicker training can help when teaching your dog basic commands and still make the session enjoyable. They can be a little stubborn sometimes, though. You can use food-based rewards to help make the training much more encouraging. Due to their intelligence, the dog will benefit from boredom blockbusters and puzzle games, and toys. Victorian Bulldogs have short-haired coats with fine, smooth fur that requires you only to brush weekly or a few times a week if you want. Bulldog breeds are known for their wrinkly faces that require regular cleaning to avoid skin irritation and infection. For this reason, you need to bathe your pup a few times a week. Gently clean inside the wrinkles with a damp cloth every day if you want to help keep your pup comfortable, without skin problems. Besides the coat, ensure you perform regular dog maintenance tasks, like nail trimming. Also, brush their teeth and gums to prevent dental disease using enzyme toothpaste every day. This helps prevent tartar buildup that causes gum disease and tooth decay. Its initial breeder insisted on avoiding many of the genetic issues common to Bulldogs. However, there are some health conditions you should expect or be aware of, at least. They include: Cherry Eye Aging Bulldogs are prone to vision problems like the Cherry Eye , which often looks like a bulging red bump at the eye corner. It is caused by an enlarged and resultant prolapsing gland at the third eyelid. Skin Problems These dogs are prone to skin infections and irritations, including eczema, dermatitis, swelling, and hot spots caused by bug bites and other skin irritants. The best way to prevent skin issues is to use medicated shampoo when washing it regularly. Also, try supplements with the help of your family vet. Obesity These dogs are prone to obesity due to overfeeding or lack of exercise. It causes them several other health conditions, including hip and elbow dysplasia and breathing difficulties. Obesity also contributes to this condition. It causes pain, lameness, and exercise intolerance. Overheating Victorian Bulldogs, just like the English Bulldog, are brachycephalic. It is another name for a smooshed face with a pushed-in nose, short muzzle, and undersized breathing passages. For this reason, it has trouble panting effectively when working out, yet panting is what helps regulate its body heat. Minor Conditions. It is broad-muzzled and short-faced, but not so excessive as to interfere with breathing. The hindquarters are somewhat higher and not as heavy as its foreparts, but not so as to destroy the symmetry of a muscular athlete. The head should be large but not exaggerated out of proportion to the body. The cheeks are rounded and extend sideways beyond the eyes. The face is measured from the front of the cheekbone to the tip of the nose, long enough for unhindered breathing. The muzzle is broad and turning up, undershot but not to excess. The nostrils are large and wide. The flews are broad and hang over the lower jaw at the sides. The canine teeth are large and wide apart. The eyes from the front are set low and wide apart. The ears are either rose or button. The neck is thick, strong and arched, with loose skin forming dewlaps on each side. The shoulders are broad and deep. The chest is wide, narrowing toward the loins. The forelegs are muscular, straight and wide apart. The hind legs are strong and muscular. The hocks are slightly bent. The feet are round and compact and either straight, turning down or screwed. The coat is smooth and short. Colors include all brindles, solid white or pied, solid red, fawn or fallow. Temperament The Victorian Bulldog is loyal and reliable with a typical bulldog personality. Although its appearance can be somewhat intimidating, it is among the gentlest of dogs. Just the same it will see off any intruder. It is described as a very affectionate and dependable animal, gentle with children, but known for its courage and its excellent guarding abilities. Human attention is required for the breed's happiness. They are nice to all people. This breed is good with family pets, but they can be scrappy with strange dogs without enough leadership from the owner. Some snore very loudly, and some have drool and slobber tendencies. It is inactive indoors and should at least have a small yard. This breed is an indoor dog. Victorian Bulldogs do best in temperate climates, as the breed can chill easily in cold weather and have trouble cooling off in very hot weather. Exercise The Victorian Bulldog needs to be taken on a daily walk. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. Wipe the face with a damp cloth every day to clean inside the wrinkles. This breed is an average shedder. The exact origin of this type of Victorian Bulldogs is unknown, but it is showing up for sale inside the USA. Breeders of this mid-sized dog developed him to have a healthier disposition compared to other Bulldog breeds. They are affectionate and devoted family pets. They are great with children as well as other pets. This low-shedding dog breed is low-maintenance. His exercise needs are low as well. The average lifespan of the Victorian Bulldog is 10—13 years. History What is a Victorian Bulldog? The Victorian Bulldog was created in an attempt to resurrect a Bulldog breed that existed during the Victorian era. He is made through crossing 4 modern Bulldog breeds. These include Bullmastiffs. The person behind the Victorian Bulldog breed's existence is a man named Ken Mollett. He was a breeder who has a great fondness for Bulldogs. In , he started a breeding programme in London together with Derek Mollett, his brother, and Graham Woods. They were aiming to create a healthier Bulldog breed that can reproduce naturally and has fewer breathing problems. These breeders also wanted to make him taller, leaner, and more athletic. This is to keep the breeding lines fairly pure. Unfortunately, Mollett's partnership with the other two breeders didn't last. It is thought that it may be due to a conflict of interest. Despite these circumstances, Mollett continued to work on recreating the Victorian Bulldog breed. He was able to distinguish the characteristics of the original Victorian Bulldog by looking at the breed's old photographs, paintings, engravings, writings, and artworks. His relentless efforts turned out to be successful. The Victorian Bulldog was also named Mollett Victorian Bulldog to make a distinction from other Bully breeds being developed. Mollett created a breeding standard for other breeders to adhere to. They were able to have around 50 members and held yearly dog shows of the breed. Mollett died in , and his wife handled the responsibilities of running the club. It was in an effort to get the breed officially recognised by major kennel clubs. As of now, the Victorian Bulldog breed is acknowledged by two minor registries. Appearance and Grooming The Victorian Bulldog breed is a medium-sized dog that is slightly larger and taller than English Bulldogs. Male Victorian Bulldogs measure around 41 to 48 centimetres 16 to 19 inches in height and weigh around 32 to 34 kilos 65 to 75 pounds. Female Victorian Bulldogs stand about 38 to 48 centimetres tall and weigh approximately 27 to 29 kilos 60 to 65 pounds. The male Victorian Bulldog is larger than his female counterpart. The female Victorian Bulldog, on the other hand, has a shorter build than the male. Litter sizes of this dog breed average between 3 and 6 puppies. A Victorian Bulldog puppy reaches his full size once he is around 1 to 2 years of age. Victorian Bulldogs have a muscular and athletic build with thick bones. They have either button- or rose-shaped ears. Their eyes are low-set and spaced wide apart. They have a wide and well-defined chest. Their large, wide nostrils have loose skin. Although they possess the short face and broad muzzle of a Bulldog, it isn't short enough to cause breathing difficulties. The Victorian Bulldogs' thick necks have dewlaps on either side because of their loose skin. They have broadly spaced shoulders and strong, straight legs. Their feet are round and compact. Their tails can be corkscrew-shaped, straight, or dangle downwards. However, it should not be carried over the back. The Victorian Bulldog breed is single-coated. His fur is dense, short, and straight. His fur colouration greatly varies, but the most common are solid red and white. There are also brindle, pied, and fawn coloured coats. Any coat that comes in solid black or a combination of black and other colours is considered undesirable. Victorian Bulldogs shed moderately throughout the year. However, it becomes heavier during shedding seasons, which occurs twice a year. This dog breed is not hypoallergenic and may not be the right fit for dog owners with allergies. Grooming the Victorian Bulldog is not as time-consuming as other breeds as he is low-maintenance. Brush your dog at least 2 or 3 times a week using a firm bristled brush. As the Victorian Bulldog has loose skin on his face and neck, make sure to wipe it every day. Use a damp cloth to clean the folds. Check the creases regularly and dry these areas when they become too moist. Bathe your Victorian Bulldog occasionally to keep his coat from drying out and keep skin problems at bay. Once a month or when necessary. The Victorian Bulldog breed needs his ears checked and cleaned every week. Look out for any signs of infection such as swelling, foul odour, redness, and unusual discharge. Inform the vet if your dog shows these symptoms. Trim his nails weekly and brush his teeth every day. As a smushed-face breed with loose jowls, the Victorian Bulldog is prone to drooling. Always keep a clean towel with you to wipe off his slobber. Other ways to prevent his drool from dropping on the floor or various furniture is by tying a handkerchief around his neck. What is the difference between a Victorian Bulldog and an English bulldog? Victorian Bulldogs are leaner and larger than English Bulldogs. They have smaller heads that are more proportional to their bodies. Their noses are also longer, allowing them to breathe more easily. English Bulldogs sport bigger, wider heads and stockier bodies compared to their Victorian cousins. These breed's differences in physique largely affect their health. Victorian Bulldogs are considered healthier than English Bulldogs. They are less prone to breathing problems and other health issues that are common in English Bulldogs. These include genetic diseases and cardiovascular disorders. Birthing is easier for the female Victorian Bulldog, as she has lower chances of delivering by caesarean section. Temperament and Intelligence The Victorian Bulldog breed has an imposing appearance, which makes him look intimidating and unapproachable. However, his disposition is far from ferocious or aggressive. He is a very affectionate and loving family dog. This light-hearted dog loves to play as well as relax on the couch. The Victorian Bulldog breed is generally quiet and rarely barks. But as a protective and loyal companion dog, he may bark to warn his owner if there is a threatening presence around their home. For this reason, they are very suitable as guard dogs. Whilst they are often quiet dogs, they may snore as they sleep. The Victorian Bulldog is patient around children, so he is a great companion dog for them. In any case, educate your children to handle their furry friend gently. Much like any dog, rough treatment can hurt or terrify him. He may respond by aggressively protecting himself. Thus, there should be no ear tugging, tail pulling, or hitting during dog-children playtime. Always monitor their interactions as it allows you to correct them and prevent untoward accidents. The Victorian Bulldog breed is a wonderful companion for other pets. Early proper socialisation and training will help your dog become welcoming and friendly to other animals. Never skip any of these processes, as it can affect how he views the world around him. Lack of socialisation can turn him into a dog that gets easily spooked at anything. The Victorian Bulldog is easy to train if you use the right approach. As he is a gentle dog, use gentle training methods such as clicker training for positive reinforcement. Training sessions should be short to keep him focused and motivated. Whilst gentleness is crucial in training the Victorian Bulldog, be firm and consistent too. If you are too lenient and indecisive with your commands, it will confuse your dog and cause barriers in his learning. That said, never physically hurt or shout at him. It can damage his trust in you and lead him to exhibit behavioural problems. Are Victorian Bulldogs aggressive? Bulldog breeds, including Victorian Bulldogs, are commonly painted as aggressive and vicious. However, mind that these dogs are naturally protective of their homes and loved ones. Thus, they are only likely to attack if they are provoked, or their family members are in danger. A Victorian Bulldog should be completely socialised at a young age. Exposing him to different situations and people will improve his confidence. He will be able to distinguish those who mean no harm to his family members from the ones with bad intentions. Mind that dogs that came from abusive homes are more likely to become aggressive. Always treat your canine companion with kindness and patience. In return, he will also shower you with love and undying loyalty. Nutrition and Feeding Get high-quality dog food for the Victorian Bulldog breed. It should be specifically made for his size and age. Raw feeding is an option as well, as it is a part of their primitive diet. Make sure to monitor his protein intake, though. Excessive amounts of proteins can cause hot spots. Your dog's raw diet should not only be composed of bones and meat. Incorporate raw eggs, fruits, yoghurt, and half-cooked vegetables as well. Before implementing this diet, consult the vet and ensure that it is appropriate for your dog. As a brachycephalic dog, the Victorian Bulldog breed is prone to heatstroke. Always keep his water bowl full of fresh water, especially during hot weather. Health and Exercise How long do Victorian Bulldogs live? With proper care, the Victorian Bulldog breed can live between 10 and 13 years. Careful selective breeding safeguards him from the common health conditions affecting typical Bulldog breeds. However, he is still prone to a few health problems, including: Obesity Victorian Bulldogs are indoor family dogs. They would rather relax on the couch than explore the outdoors. Although they are not very active, never let them skip exercise. Or else they will gain too much weight and suffer from obesity. A balanced and healthy diet should also be paired with exercise to effectively manage their weight. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a common orthopaedic problem in the Victorian Bulldog breed. The malformation of the hip's ball and joint socket causes this disease. It is passed on to the breed through genetics. Treating it will require medication, physical therapy, or surgery. Skin Problems Victorian Bulldogs have sensitive skin and are prone to various allergies. Their allergic reactions can be brought on by various factors. These include food allergens, fleas or ticks , dust, and pollen. This laid-back dog has lower energy levels than other breeds. He only needs 20 to 40 minutes of daily exercise. Taking him out for 2 walks a day is sufficient enough to meet his exercise requirement. If you have a small yard, take time to play mentally stimulating games and activities with him. This dog breed is adaptable and can thrive in either a city or a rural area. Always have fresh water during and after exercise to help your dog's body to cool off. Cost of Ownership How much are Victorian Bulldogs? Just be warned that several shady breeders have created their own version of the breed without following the breed standard. They produce low-quality and sickly litters. Other breeders may even claim that their litters are of Victorian Bulldogs, although they are not. So be sure to buy your Victorian Bulldog puppy from a reputable breeder. Victorian Bulldog Breed Highlights The Victorian Bulldog breed is sweet and loving despite his tough-looking appearance. He is a moderate shedder and a low-maintenance dog. He is easy to train through the use of gentle training techniques. He has low energy levels and only requires minimal exercise. Are you sure the Victorian Bulldog is the best breed for you? Take the Pet Breed Selector Quiz to find your perfect breed match. Dog Breed Selector Quiz Disclaimer: The information, including measurements, prices and other estimates, on this page is provided for general reference purposes only.