poodle and golden retriever mix puppy
The German Shepherd has played many roles over the years including, among others: herding sheep, military field work, search and rescue, guide dog and police dog. This is a life threatening condition where the stomach rotates on its axis, cutting off the passage of food and water, and inhibiting circulation to the stomach and intestines. Bloat generally occurs in large, deep-chested dogs such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, Weimaraners, Saint Bernards, and Newfoundlands but has been seen in small dogs on rare occasions. Patients typically present with non-productive retching, restlessness and abdominal discomfort. The first signs of bloat may include a distended stomach, retching, or dry heaving. If these symptoms are seen, immediate medical attention must be sought! The cause of the GDV is unknown, it is thought to have multiple contributing factors. That is the million-dollar question. No one knows the exact cause of why bloat happens; however large breed, deep chested dogs are more likely to bloat than other breeds. In some cases, eating or drinking large amounts and then being active is thought to cause bloat. There is also thought that eating out of elevated food dishes may increase chances of GDV as dogs may swallow more air when eating. Factors Suspected to Increase the Risk of Bloat Feeding one meal per day Breed of dog Feeding a dry diet Sex of dog: Male dogs seem to be at a higher risk Age: Older dogs, between the ages of years, seem to be at a higher risk Exercising immediately after a meal Factors Suspected to Decrease the Risk of Bloat Feeding canned dog food Feeding two or more meals per day No exercise for several hours after a meal What Does Bloat Look Like? Dogs with bloat can be restless and unable to get comfortable or lay down. They can have very distended abdomens that can be very painful. They may also have very fast heart rates and changes in breathing. In severe cases, they may collapse or be unable to stand. It is very important that if you see any of these signs that you have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian immediately. As veterinarians we understand that each dog can show different variations of these signs; if there is any concern an owner can always call a veterinary clinic and ask their opinion. Why is Bloat an Emergency? Bloat sets off a cascade of damaging events to the body. As the stomach fills with air it expands and starts to cut off blood returning to the heart. The expansion of the stomach then puts pressure on the diaphragm, making it difficult for the dog to breath. The stomach then starts to rotate cutting off the blood supply to the stomach. When the stomach rotates it can entrap the spleen and thus cause damage or cut off blood supply to the spleen and even rupture blood vessels. All of these changes lead to the dog going into shock. Blood pressure drops, arrhythmias and internal bleeding can occur as well as sepsis. Unfortunately, death can occur in a matter of hours if bloat goes undetected and untreated. All of these changes happen very quickly, which is why it is so important for an owner to recognize the signs of bloat and get them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Treatment Emergency veterinary medical attention must be sought for treatment of bloat. Unfortunately, there is nothing that an owner can do at home. Abdominal x-rays are the most reliable way to assess stomach position and diagnose bloat. Stabilization of the patient and diagnostics must be performed immediately. These dogs require pain medication and intravenous fluids. Surgical intervention is a necessary step in the treatment of bloat and should be done as soon as the patient is stable enough to undergo anesthesia and surgery. During a bloat circulation can be compromised and other abdominal organs, such as the spleen or intestines, may be affected, as a result the spleen may also need to be removed in some cases. Bloat, requires a multiple day stay in the hospital for post-operative care and recovery. If not treated by a veterinarian immediately, bloat can be fatal. Most dogs who are diagnosed and treated early in the development of bloat recover from surgery and can lead a normal life. The surgery consists of de-rotating the stomach back to its normal position and then tacking it to the body wall. This is called a gastropexy. If the spleen was involved in the twisting, then it may have to be removed as well. Even after the surgery is performed these dogs are not out of the woods. There are many complications that can still arise after surgery and it is very common for these dogs to be in the hospital for multiple days. Preventing Bloat Recommendations for preventing bloat are feeding several small meals a day, discouraging drinking large amounts of water at one time, allowing some time between eating and activity, and feeding on the floor. Hopefully knowing some of these preventative tips will decrease the chances of your furry family member bloating; however, if you see the signs listed above do not wait! Get your pet to an emergency veterinary hospital immediately. Ideally call ahead so they know you are coming and can plan for your arrival. Time is of the essence. Unfortunately, German Shepherds are prone to stomach issues and are known to have more digestive problems than other breeds. Symptoms include irregular loose stools or diarrhea, vomiting, and gas. Most stomach issues are usually harmless and often settle down by themselves. However, sometimes digestive problems in German Shepherds do not go away and become more than just mild and intermittent. In this case, you should take your dog to see a veterinarian to rule out anything more sinister. A sensitive stomach all centers around digestion. Some German Shepherds can eat almost anything with no adverse effects, and some dogs are more susceptible. My German Shepherd is sensitive to some dairy foods such as cream. The lactose in the cream causes her to have diarrhea. However, she can tolerate and enjoys a small amount of milk. Some dogs may have a food allergy, for example, an allergy to chicken, dairy, wheat, or egg. They include infectious diseases bacterial, viral, or parasitic and non-infectious conditions, such as obstruction, tumors, or bloat. Bloat GDV X-ray of a dog with bloat — the red double bubble pattern indicates stomach torsion. I thought I should list this first as bloat also called gastric dilation volvulus, or GDV is a life-threatening emergency, and you must be aware of it. Bloat has become more common in deep-chested dogs like German Shepherds. Bloat is relatively harmless for humans, but it can be deadly for dogs as they can become critically ill or die within hours if not treated. So what exactly is bloat? Or the other way around—no one is sure whether it bloats then twists, or twists then bloats. Anna Stobnicki, Pet MD The causes are unknown, but symptoms to look for are a swollen stomach, drooling, panting, restlessness, and discomfort. Your German Shepherd may also repeatedly try to vomit, but nothing will come up. Good tips for reducing the risk are to feed two small meals rather than one large meal a day and to avoid feeding your dog before strenuous exercise, leaving at least an hour on either side of feeding. I also recommend a slow-feeder bowl such as the Outward Hound Fun Feeder from Amazon, especially if your dog gulps his food. Ensure your dog eats a nutritious and balanced diet. I feed my German Shepherd cold-pressed dog food instead of regular dry kibble. Canine Parvovirus Canine parvovirus is a viral infection that can cause a sensitive stomach in German Shepherds. It most often affects puppies or unvaccinated adult dogs and can be potentially fatal. German Shepherds are at increased risk of the disease, but any breed can be infected. The virus is transmitted by direct contact with other infected dogs or poop. Signs to look out for include loss of appetite, fever, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and stomach pain. There is a very high chance your dog will survive with appropriate treatment, and most dogs recover within a few days. There is usually some inflammation present; however, the exact cause is unknown. Possible causes could be dietary, parasitic, bacterial overgrowth, or a reaction to a specific drug. Although food allergies are an unlikely cause in most cases, they may contribute to the development of the disease. According to the MSD Veterinary Manual, inflammatory bowel disease can affect all ages and breeds of dogs; however, it has become more common in some breeds, including the German Shepherd. The disease is difficult to diagnose, and the average age for the onset of inflammatory bowel disease is six years, but it may occur in dogs less than two years old. Signs are often present over a long period and may come and go. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medication and additional drugs to suppress the immune system. You may require other changes to try and identify if a specific food is causing the problem, and an elimination diet does this. Vets may also recommend feeding your German Shepherd a hypoallergenic diet which either involves trying a new source of protein that they have never previously eaten, e. A hydrolyzed diet contains a specially made protein that has been chemically split into such tiny pieces that the immune system does not mount an allergic reaction to it. You will need your vet to authorize this special diet for your pet. Turn around! Colitis Colitis is an inflammation of the colon large intestine. Inflammatory bowel disease see 3. Colitis could be causing a sensitive stomach in your German Shepherd. Signs are chronic diarrhea that may also contain mucus and blood. Your dog may experience straining when pooping, causing pain. Weight loss and vomiting can occur but are uncommon as these symptoms are seen more when the small intestine is involved. Most dogs are middle-aged that develop colitis, and German Shepherds are one of the susceptible breeds. However, chronic colitis can take quite a few weeks to improve but can be very well managed with ongoing treatment. This may include feeding a special diet recommended by your vet. Because there is poor absorption of nutrients, weight loss commonly occurs despite a normal or increased appetite. Other signs are chronic diarrhea and occasional vomiting. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is most frequent in young adult German Shepherds and some other breeds. The disease may be present from birth or acquired due to pancreatic infection or injury. The condition is easily diagnosed by simple blood and stool tests. Most German Shepherds with EPI can be successfully treated with pancreatic enzyme replacement medication. They will also require a highly digestible, low-fat diet. Having said that, bowel cancer is more prevalent in some breeds, including the German Shepherd. The average age of dogs with digestive system cancer is 6—9 years old, and the cause is unknown. Signs of a possible tumor depend on the location and extent to which the cancer has developed. The most common symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea sometimes with blood , lack of appetite, weight loss, and lethargy. Constipation and straining to poop are more likely with colon or rectal cancers. Dogs may also have signs of anemia, such as pale gums. The outlook can range from excellent to poor. Gastrointestinal Ulcers Accidental poisoning is one of the leading causes of gastrointestinal ulcers e. Certain drugs can also cause gastrointestinal ulcers stomach ulcers , for example, aspirin, ibuprofen, and corticosteroids. It is also known that gastroduodenal ulcers are common in German Shepherds heavily medicated on ibuprofen. Other causes of stomach ulcers include cancer, infections, and diseases e. Some of the disorders already mentioned here, including stomach obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, and chronic stomach inflammation gastritis , can also contribute. Stress and extreme exercise may also be a factor. I found this interesting recent study evidencing that gastric ulcers and gastritis see .The study states that other working dogs, like retrievers, are also at risk if they perform sufficiently strenuous exercise. Therefore, as some German Shepherds are working dogs, they may also be at an increased risk. For instance, dogs are less likely to show clinical evidence of gastrointestinal bleeding. You will give a bland diet e. Unfortunately, the outlook is poor for those German Shepherds with ulcers associated with kidney or liver disease and some cancers. Lack of appetite, weight loss, and abdominal pain may also occur. Often the cause is unknown; however, these are believed to be some of them: Parasites. Diarrhea Generally speaking, diarrhea is defined as an increase in fecal fluidity, frequency, and volume of defecation. The most common accompanying features of diarrhea include vomiting, lack of appetite, and weight loss. Luckily, the majority of cases of diarrhea in German Shepherds and digestive upset are minor, so home treatment is appropriate in some cases. However, there are instances where a case may be life-threatening and call for prompt veterinary assistance. Constipation Another type of German Shepherd bowel problem is the malfunctioning of their large intestines, which can result in excessively hard stools, known as constipation. As a result, a German Shepherd has to exert increasing amounts of effort in order to defecate. Vomiting There are many potential causes of intermittent vomiting in GSDs. One of the most pressing concerns when your German Shepherd vomits is dehydration. These natural cures typically entail supportive care, such as providing a bland diet, keeping track of hydration, and allowing them time to recover. When symptoms deteriorate or at-home care is ineffective, additional veterinary assistance is needed to prevent further health complications. Food Allergy or Sensitivity In several dog breeds, including the German Shepherd, food allergies are fairly common. While some GSDs may have just a slight food sensitivity, others may have severe stomach issues as a result of a food allergy. Although food allergies or sensitivities can manifest in German Shepherds at any time during their lives, symptoms often appear after 9 months of age. The inability to maintain body weight, weight loss despite eating, and loose stools are the most common symptoms when your dog is sensitive to certain ingredients. There are lots of sensitive and limited-ingredient dog food diets available. You can find the best dog food for German Shepherds with digestive problems listed here. Want even more help? Sometimes a veterinarian may even recommend a hydrolyzed diet to treat gastrointestinal problems in German Shepherds who are allergic to certain proteins, but this is very expensive and requires a prescription to purchase. Parasites When intestinal parasites find their way into the GI tract, they can cause stomach issues in your German Shepherd. As a result, when they have a parasitic infection, our Shepherds may experience severe diarrhea and vomiting, lose weight, and become lethargic. Parvovirus The vile parvovirus, which targets the intestines, can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration in German Shepherds. It spreads by feces particles and is very contagious. Unvaccinated German Shepherd puppies under 6 months old usually experience the most severe parvovirus illness symptoms. A dog with this sickness needs supportive treatment, anti-vomiting medications, antibiotics, and antacids until the parvovirus runs its course. Call your veterinarian as soon as your German Shepherd exhibits parvovirus signs to arrange an urgent visit. Wait outside the clinic with your GSD until you are called in order to prevent spreading parvovirus to the other dogs in the waiting room. As soon as you discover symptoms, take your German Shepherd to the vet. Dogs who get immediate vet attention have a considerably higher chance of surviving the parvovirus. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI is a syndrome caused by insufficient pancreatic secretion and production of digestive enzymes. Although it affects many breeds, German Shepherds are especially vulnerable. In general, the condition primarily affects young adult dogs under the age of 5 years old. Pancreatic enzymes are necessary for the assimilation of all main food components. The necessity for these enzymes can cause digestive issues in dogs with EPI. Overeating, weight loss, and diarrhea are the most often stated signs and symptoms. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in many German Shepherds is treated by incorporating pancreatic enzymes—either powdered or derived from live tissue—into every meal. To ensure a speedy recovery for your German Shepherd with EPI , follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian and stick to their treatment plan. No known cause is believed to exist for inflammatory bowel illness. Food sensitivities and allergies are considered lesser-known causes of IBD; however, they can occasionally play a role. For instance, recurrent allergic reactions to food can create inflammation, which can then contribute to the development of disease. Inflammatory bowel disease appears to affect dogs of all ages, genders, and breeds. But German Shepherds may be more susceptible than other breeds. In addition to frequently lasting for a long time, indications might sometimes arise and disappear. There could be diarrhea, constipation, appetite changes, and weight loss. This means that your Shepherd is more vulnerable than other breeds. The twisting interrupts the blood flow to the stomach and, in certain cases, the spleen. If left untreated, the condition can be lethal in as little as 30 minutes. Take your German Shepherd right away to an emergency vet hospital if you notice any signs that look like bloat. Cancer Dogs of all breeds can get cancers of various forms, but German Shepherds are more likely than other dog breeds to develop hemangiosarcoma. This malignancy is caused by harmful cells that coat small blood vessels. The most common age range for diagnosis in German Shepherds is between 9 and .The spleen and heart are the organs that are most frequently affected by hemangiosarcoma, although this type of cancer can also cause stomach issues like anorexia, vomiting, and weight loss. Another cancer that can cause vomiting, weight loss, and other stomach-related symptoms in German Shepherds is gastric cancer. As this type of cancer is predominantly located in the GI system, stomach problems are more noticeable. To help prevent some stomach problems in German Shepherds, practice the following home care techniques: 1. For delicate digestion, only feed sensitive-stomach dog food. Avoid fatty foods and table scraps at all costs. Other times, you might feel the need to look into giving your German Shepherd supplements for her sensitive stomach. Exercise your German Shepherd frequently, both physically and mentally. German Shepherds are an energetic breed that requires a range of activities. When your dog is feeling better, incorporate a variety of movements into her regular activity. To keep her moving find some new GSD fitness routines and ideas. On the other hand, if your dog is having an upset stomach, avoid any vigorous activities and stick to slow walks with lots of sniffing to avoid further belly problems. Try a few of these fun brain games for German Shepherds. Take notes on what types of food and treats you feed your German Shepherd. Then, write down how your dog acted after they eat the foods and treats. Was she sick to her stomach? Did she have diarrhea? No problems at all? Think of all the foods, even the tiny bits you know you sneak to her when you eat dinner, and write them down. Keeping a detailed food journal can give your German Shepherd better gut health and is a useful tool should you need information for your vet. You can also get more nutrition and diet tips for your German Shepherd here. Regularly brush your German Shepherd and check for skin issues. You can examine the health of her coat and her greatest organ, the skin barrier, by grooming down the fur all the way to the skin. Observe any unusual colorations or lumps and bumps. Keep a regular brushing routine, like this one , and also look for any fleas, ticks, or other parasites. Your veterinarian will perform the appropriate examinations at these appointments and be able to detect or test for illnesses and ailments that are common in German Shepherds, especially those that are related to stomach problems. Join a pet health insurance program. My German Shepherd recently had cancer. The insurance covered overnight stays at a specialized cancer treatment facility, chemotherapy, radiography, and medical exams. I was able to give her a better chance of survival because I had great pet health insurance. By maintaining healthy stomach habits, you have the opportunity to spot any little issues before they become serious ones. There are plenty more tips and advice in this article about German Shepherd Upset Stomach Remedies that you can use to help your dog at home. Routine Action Supervise where she goes. Feed her highly digestible dog foods. Dog foods that are crafted for stomach sensitivities are easy to digest and help with some stomach issues. Keep her diet consistent. Feed her an age-appropriate diet. In order to maintain nutrition levels and avoid malnourishment, feed your German Shepherd food specifically made for her age group puppy, adult, senior, weight maintenance. Schedule her exercises at the right times. Some stomach issues, such as bloat, can be prevented by avoiding exercise for a couple of hours on either side of when your dog eats. Follow a digestive health routine to help prevent stomach issues in German Shepherds. How soon should I take my German Shepherd to the vet for stomach issues? Any strange symptom can be an indication of a dangerous sickness, or it might just be a little issue that will go away on its own. Keep in mind that your veterinarian is qualified to identify frequent gastrointestinal issues in your German Shepherd early on when they are more manageable to treat. Not only will it have the right balance of nutrients, but a tasty level of palatability will also ensure they really enjoy it. Adding unhealthy human food to a nutritionally full and balanced commercial dog food, as tempting as it is, might create digestive difficulties in German Shepherds. Stick to healthy treats made just for dogs instead. Add a stomach-soothing probiotic to their diet to help keep their digestion on track. While not a cure-all, some dogs need a bit of help in the guts to keep their digestion more balanced. To find out even more helpful nutrition advice, check out my guide to feeding your German Shepherd a healthy diet. Home treatments and remedies work effectively for some stomach issues, such as upset stomachs and moderate cases of constipation, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other intestinal problems, however, need immediate medical intervention. Knowing when to take your German Shepherd to the doctor for stomach issues might not only speed up their recovery but also help them avoid some potentially fatal diseases. When in doubt, avoid delaying medical care for your dog. Want more help? Download the PDF—no signup necessary—and then follow the instructions. The hand-selected articles and free stomach care plan were a big help to me when my German Shepherd had digestive issues and gut problems. I hope you find the free guide and food tracker list helpful, too! Allenspach, et al. Michael J. Breed predisposition to canine gastric carcinoma—a study based on the Norwegian canine cancer register. Acta Vet Scand. Tello, L. Fluid and electrolyte therapy during vomiting and diarrhea. Every dog owner will likely experience having to care for a dog with an upset stomach. Unfortunately, however, this situation is much more common in some breeds, including the German Shepherd. Yes, German Shepherds are much more prone to having sensitive stomachs than other breeds. Some GSDs have strong guts that can withstand all the curious things dogs lick and eat. But, the breed is generally known for having digestive disorders and sensitivities. When you have a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach, the signs are hard to miss. They might also vomit bile, which appears as a yellow foamy liquid. Flatulence — Just like humans, dogs accumulate gas when they have trouble digesting. Salivation — German Shepherds are not drool-prone. Among the most common causes of excessive salivation is nausea. Decreased mobility after meals — Most dogs rest after meals. But if yours seems to be much less active after a meal, they may be experiencing some digestive issues. Loss of appetite — Your dog may eat less than they normally do or stop eating altogether. Skipping a meal or two might help relieve their stomachache. However, fasting for too long might lead to lethargy and hypoglycemia. This predisposition most commonly stems from the following: Body Type Breeds with deep but narrow chests like the German Shepherd German Shepherds have deep but narrow chests. This makes them more likely to suffer from a condition called gastric dilatation volvulus GDV. More commonly known as bloat, GDV is a painful and potentially fatal inflammatory condition wherein the stomach may twist and cut off circulation. Lack of Digestive Enzymes The German Shepherd is among the breeds known to be predisposed to pancreatic insufficiency. Without enough pancreatic enzymes, your dog will have difficulty digesting proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. This leads not only to abdominal discomfort but also to malnutrition. Imbalance of Gut Flora The gut microbiome plays a huge role in digestion, nutrition absorption, and strengthening the immune system. Unfortunately, GSDs are more prone to bacterial overgrowth and imbalances compared to other breeds. This leads to chronic digestive issues. Food Sensitivities Insufficient or imbalanced gut flora and lack of digestive enzymes further lead to food sensitivities and allergies. Finding the right food will help prevent inflammation and reduce the frequency of stomachaches. Sometimes, a short fast can be all it takes to relieve them of their discomfort. However, you should take them for emergency care if they skip three meals in a row. Offer Bland Food If your dog is nauseated, they might be put off by the taste and smell of their regular food. They might also find it hard to digest when their stomach is already inflamed. To help them, offer bland and easily digested food like boiled rice and canned pumpkin. Provide probiotics Give your dog some unflavored yogurt to help introduce some good bacteria into their gut. Or, talk to your vet about administering probiotic supplements. Give Them Glucose Refusing food can lead to a drop in glucose levels, which can result in lethargy, further loss of appetite, and even seizures. Giving your dog some sugar will help them regain some energy and boost their appetite. This can be in the form of honey or glucose powder diluted into their drinking water. Among the best things you can do for long-term care include: Choosing An Appropriate Diet When you have a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach, you need to be more mindful of the food you give them. Avoid high-fat kibble and determine what ingredients they might be sensitive to. In many cases, GSDs with digestive problems benefit immensely from a grain-free diet. Switching between diets is one of the most common causes of inflammation in dogs with sensitive stomachs. Whenever you need to switch, make sure you transition slowly. So, avoid feeding them one large meal per day. Instead, divide their daily servings between two or three meals. Also, keep your dog from scarfing down all their food too quickly. Finding the right dog bowl should help slow them down. Always opt for high-quality dog treats with real ingredients. Make sure they get their vaccination and parasite prevention doses on time to avoid illnesses that make taking antibiotics necessary. Maintaining probiotics Talk to your vet about maintaining a probiotic supplement. These come in different forms, including capsules, dog chews, and powders. In some dogs, yogurt and kefir work very well. This is especially critical if your dog has skipped three meals in a row, has stopped taking water, and has become lethargic. Often, a physical examination along with a lab test is the best way to determine the most effective treatment. Final Thoughts It can be very worrying and frustrating when you have a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach. Abdominal pain Lethargy If your German Shepherd is experiencing any of the above symptoms, they may be struggling with an upset stomach. When it comes to gastrointestinal upset in German Shepherds, there are many possible causes behind each stomach grumble. Common factors of an upset stomach can lurk around each corner, making it so important to be aware of the possible risks. So what causes an upset stomach in German Shepherds? Dogs can get into the trash, eat table scraps, eat inedible objects, and any other items that are outside of their normal diet. This is especially true of fattening or greasy food items. Not only can dietary indiscretion cause an upset stomach in German Shepherds, but it can also cause an intestinal obstruction if the item is unable to pass through the digestive tract. Foreign bodies can lead to vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy, and more when they are left untreated. Since our dogs generally eat the same diet each day, their digestive tract gets used to the same ingredients. Due to this, an abrupt change in diet can cause a shock to their digestive system. This sudden shock can result in diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and any other sign of an upset stomach. An ideal diet switch will occur over weeks. Infectious GI disease can cause severe diarrhea and vomiting in dogs, often to the point of needing hospitalization and other aggressive medical care. While there are multiple infections that can cause GI symptoms, the most common disease is Parvo. Bacterial Infections Multiple forms of bacteria live all around us and our canine companions. Not only can bacteria make their way into their food and water, but it also lives in the soil they step in with each trip outside. If your dog has gastrointestinal symptoms and has tested negative for other possible causes, bacteria may be to blame. Intestinal Parasites Intestinal parasites can negatively impact your German Shepherd when they make their way into the intestinal tract. Parasites can settle in the wall of their intestines, replicate at high speed, and cause severe damage to every tissue they come in contact with. Because of this, our Shepherd friends can suffer from severe diarrhea and vomiting when experiencing a parasitic infection. Food Allergies Though this is the most rare cause of an upset stomach on the list, it is certainly possible. When a dog is allergic to a certain ingredient in their daily diet, it can lead to an array of troubling symptoms that impact their daily life. Food allergies can cause loose stool, diarrhea, vomiting, gas, skin irritation, hair loss, and more. By testing for any underlying factors that can cause an upset stomach, you stand a better chance at offering your dog the relief they deserve. Introduce Probiotics If your German Shepherd is experiencing an upset stomach, they may benefit from the addition of probiotics. Whether your pup is finishing up a course of antibiotics or struggling with a bacterial imbalance in their gut, probiotics can help to restore the good bacteria in the GI tract. Probiotics can help to restore healthy gut bacteria, regulate their digestive habits, and even offer immune support as they recover. While their daily diet may be a wonderful option for maintaining their overall health, it may not be ideal when they are experiencing GI distress. Some of the best bland diet options include boiled chicken breast and white rice, ground turkey and white rice, or a prescribed bland diet from your veterinarian. Have you ever seen a dog vomit and run to their water bowl directly after, only to vomit again? This canine response to nausea can lead to more problems for our furry friends, making it important for us to step in. These include Pepto Bismol and Immodium. However, this really depends on your particular dog, so it is very important that you clear it with your veterinarian before you give your German Shepherd any dosage of these medications. Upset Stomach In German Shepherd Puppies If you have a German Shepherd puppy in your life, there are always a few extra factors to consider when they are experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. So what can an upset stomach in German Shepherd puppies mean? While puppies can still experience GI upset from other causes, these factors are serious possibilities in our younger canine friends. If your German Shepherd puppy is not fully vaccinated or has not been fully dewormed, these possibilities are on the table. Your veterinarian can rule out Parvovirus or intestinal parasites with a few simple diagnostics in their clinic laboratory. Once they have an accurate diagnosis in place, they can determine the best method of treatment for your Shepherd friend. Though our canines will be exposed to GI upset at some point throughout their life, there are added safety measures to help keep them safe! Offer them quality food that is approved by your veterinarian Make sure they are always fully vaccinated, especially if they are out in public Never switch their diet abruptly Always transition to a new diet over weeks Keep table scraps or greasy food items away from your dog Make sure your dog is dewormed and on monthly heartworm prevention Keep your trash can in a safe area that your dog cannot access Try not to let them eat too quickly try a slow feeder if they do Promoting Gastrointestinal Health In A Sensitive German Shepherd Some German Shepherds have a sensitive stomach that can be easily aggravated. These pups often require special care when it comes to their diet, and often benefit from extra support from probiotics and other dietary supplements. So how can you promote digestive health in your German Shepherd? Here are a few of our favorite tips! Sensitive Stomach Diets If your GSD has a sensitive stomach, they may require a special diet that is easy on their gut. A sensitive stomach diet is often free of common irritants and inflammatory ingredients, often resulting in easy digestion for our furry friends. Some of our favorite sensitive stomach diets for German Shepherds include:.
Wheat Soy Preservatives, some grains like wheat, barley, corn, and white rice, as well as dyes, excessive salt, and various sugars, are among the common ingredients in dog food that can irritate the stomach. Helps speed up recovery time. To help expedite the recovery process and support a healthy digestive system, consider feeding your pup a specialized formula crafted for stomach problems. These specially formulated foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that aid in smooth digestion 2. Maintains a healthy weight. You can maintain a healthy weight by choosing a complete and balanced dog food formula and feeding it in the recommended amounts. Your German Shepherd can maintain a healthy weight by eating the vitamins, minerals, and calories found in dog foods designed for sensitive tummies and diarrhea. Reduces inflammation. Giving German Shepherd dogs food to treat diarrhea also has the benefit of reducing the inflammatory response that results. Gentle dog foods designed for stomach sensitivities in German Shepherds are less likely to cause stomach inflammation, reducing digestive irritation. Boosts their immune system. Incorporating easily digestible ingredients that are less taxing on the digestive system, sensitive formula dog foods support the immune systems of these animals. Reduces stress. The digestive system can become irritated by anxiety and stress, which can result in diarrhea. However, giving your German Shepherd dog food designed to prevent diarrhea can lessen their stress from stomach aches and give them a sense of relief. There are more benefits than you might have thought! The following is a quick guide to choosing foods that encourage firm stools and lessen stomach upset: High in protein, coming from a limited number of protein sources Look for foods that are high in protein and contain quickly digestible carbohydrates when choosing the best food for a German Shepherd suffering from diarrhea. Consuming excessive amounts of fat can result in runny stools, upset stomachs, and generally poor nutrition. Easily digestible carbohydrates Rice and oats, which are both readily digestible carbohydrates, can give your dog a consistent supply of energy and support a healthy digestive system. For owners who want to feed their pets a diet free of grains, there are still several food options. Addition of probiotics and prebiotics Dog foods with probiotics and prebiotics should be sought out as well. Prebiotics are indigestible fibers that support the growth of the good bacteria already present in the gut, whereas probiotics are helpful bacteria that support the maintenance of a healthy digestive system. In case more is needed, probiotics and prebiotics can be added as a daily supplement. Fatty acids have been shown to improve digestion, lower inflammation, and, in some cases, ease anxiety and stress. What should you look for when selecting dog food for your German Shepherd with runny poop? Wet or dry formulas What kind of food does your German Shepherd prefer—dry or wet? Or perhaps a mix of the two? Dry foods make up the vast majority of sensitive dog food options. Giving your dog dry kibble on a regular basis is simple and requires little effort. However, if you have a German Shepherd who finds it easier to eat softer, wet food, it may be worthwhile to consider such options to keep their bellies in shape. Cost vs. No dog owner is exempt from the costs of specially formulated pet foods. There are food options for German Shepherds experiencing diarrhea at a range of price points to accommodate different budgets. If you choose a more expensive option, you might discover that your dog is healthier, happier, and has fewer stomach sensitivities. Puppy, adult, and senior age groups You must choose the proper German Shepherd dog food for their age and needs. All of the foods on the list may soothe an upset stomach, but you also need to consider what your German Shepherd needs nutritionally based on their age. In general: Puppy food contains more calories and nutrients for healthy growth than adult food. Senior dog food contains fewer calories and fats to help dogs maintain weight. High palatability Does your dog have taste preferences that might sway them toward a certain flavor? Do you know they definitely dislike certain proteins, such as beef or lamb? German Shepherds with diarrhea can suffer from a lack of appetite, so food that smells tasty to them must be found in order for their guts to stay regular. Look for foods that not only have the vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients your dog needs for optimum health but are also tasty and enticing to your dog. Consider also that any other items you feed your dog could cause diarrhea, including treats. See here a list of healthy treat options for German Shepherds to give you some ideas. Instead of giving them the new food all at once, introduce it gradually to prevent stomach issues. Keep an eye on your dog during the transition period to ensure they are tolerating the new food well. Look out for any signs of digestive upset, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite. If your dog experiences any digestive issues, slow down the transition process and wait until they are feeling better before continuing. Once your dog is fully transitioned to the new food, monitor their overall health and well-being. Remember that if your German Shepherd has stomach issues unrelated to their diet, there is no dog food that will magically cure them. Be on the lookout for any indications of a digestive problem, such as nausea and upset stomach , vomiting, or a loss of appetite. Observe changes in their energy levels, coat, and general behavior. Always get them to a vet when in doubt! However, you should not put off taking your dog to the vet if their health is in jeopardy. Dog food for your German Shepherd with diarrhea should be easily digestible and made with gastrointestinal issues in mind. The best options are:. Breed-specific food designed for German Shepherd puppies High-quality chicken is used as the animal protein base A unique complex of antioxidants and Vitamin E for developing a strong immune system Cons Expensive for some dog owners Frequently out of stock Contains potential allergens How to Choose the Best Dog Food for German Shepherds German Shepherd is a large breed that is active and strong, with a muscular physique. Large Breed Dog food is special because it helps to maintain long-term health and quality of life, especially taking into account the common health conditions that plague the breed. It is critical to study the ingredients of the food you are planning to buy carefully, and analyze the key nutrients for your dog. Most ingredient lists will also identify potentially harmful ingredients or allergens. Protein should come from animal sources, such as chicken or beef. It should avoid contamination by animal byproducts, added flavors, and preservatives. Fats: A high amount of fat can cause your GS to be overweight. At the same time, fats are necessary for healthy skin coat, bones and joints and to lubricate internal systems. The best sources of carbs for dogs are rice, barley, sweet potatoes, and oats. Carbs are necessary because GSD are protections dogs and need high amount of energy. Carbs along with proteins are the best energy sources. Vitamins and minerals: These nutrients promote healthy brain activity in dogs and improve the overall health of German Shepherds. These actually constitute a small amount in dog foods. Fiber: The fiber in the diet creates a healthy texture in the stool, which is especially important for German Shepherds who are prone to perianal fistulas. While they are puppies, German Shepherds require nutritious food that will enable them to grow quickly and develop their robust physique. Adult: During their adult life stage, German Shepherds require a balanced diet rich in protein to maintain their physique and active lifestyle. Senior : Older German Shepherds can be quite sensitive to food and develop several health conditions. Food for senior dogs should include plenty of vitamins and minerals that enhance brain activity, as well as probiotics and antioxidants that improve digestive health and immune system. German Shepherd Health Conditions and Special Dietary Needs German Shepherds might be a picture of strength and power, but as a breed, they suffer from many health conditions that can decrease their lifespan and quality of life. Most of these conditions are congenital, and they are out of control of the owners. Do consider getting pet insurance for German Shepherd as medical bills can add up significantly. Bones and Joints: When it comes to bone and joint health, German Shepherds suffer from hip dysplasia, which is common in large dogs. As they age, German Shepherds are also known to develop osteoarthritis. Dog food rich in glucosamine and chondroitin improves joint and bone health and should be high on your priority list. Skin and coat: German Shepherds have a long coat of hair, but their skin is quite sensitive. For the maintenance of a shiny coat and clear skin, avoid dog foods that are rich in allergens, and make sure the food contains essential fatty acids. Digestive system: German Shepherds have sensitive stomachs and are prone to bloating and gas. Dog foods rich in live probiotics helps improve the digestive health of German Shepherds and boosts their immune systems. Allergens: Notorious for food allergies, German Shepherds can develop several serious health conditions if they are fed food that is high in allergens. Your priority should be to avoid dog foods with prominent grain content, particularly corn and wheat, which are well-known allergens. Meat such as chicken and beef can also be the source of allergens, but instead of avoiding it, monitor your dog and make sure that the protein content is from pure chicken or beef. Inactivity: German Shepherds have a healthy appetite matched by their high activity level. As they get older or develop health issues, they tend to dial down their activity and can often develop weight problems. German Shepherd puppies grow quickly and need a lot of food as they grow. At two months old, puppies will consume anywhere from three to four cups of food per day. For each month after that, add half-a-cup of food until they reach six months. At six months, their growth will slow, and you can keep them at that level until they are ten months old. At ten months, gradually decrease the amount of food by half-a-cup every two months until they reach adulthood. The amount of food your adult German Shepherd needs depends on their size and activity level. The bigger and more active the dog, the more food it will consume. Bear in mind that this is dry dog food. In case you are feeding your dog wet or mixed food, lower the amount by a full cup. As large dogs, German Shepherds enjoy longer puppyhood compared to other breeds. In general, at fifteen months old German Shepherds are considered full-grown and adult dogs and should eat food intended for their strength. All dogs are different and develop at their own rate. Still, you should avoid feeding German Shepherd puppies adult dog food during their growing phase because they need more protein and nutrients compared to mature dogs. After twelve months, you can start experimenting with food for adult dogs and try to make the transition smoother for your pet. Becky Roberts One of Becky's favourite things to do every morning is to browse the top pet-related forums, looking for issues and questions that people have. She then shortlists the most common ones, and turns them into blog posts for Fuzzy Rescue. She's the only one on our team that doesn't like coffee, but it seems to us she really doesn't need more energy :. We're very fortunate to have her on board as she does most of the heavy listing for the site, outputting an insane amount of content each month. From how-to guides, tips and tricks, to product comparisons… Our goal is to be the go-to knowledgebase when it comes to pet-related questions and information. Affiliate Disclosure Fuzzyrescue. Additionally, fuzzy-rescue. Reasons to try dog food delivery companies German Shepherd lies down in front of dog bowl Photo: Adobe Stock So you like the idea of feeding fresh meals to your German Shepherd but you want to learn a little more. If your German Shepherd has a sensitive tummy, you want to be confident your GSD is eating balanced and complete meals. In short, yes. Most companies will enquire about the previous food that you gave your GSD as well as any preferences. Even if I found a brand of dry food they liked, after a few weeks, they would get bored. Having said that, I still like to vary the recipes I select to keep them guessing. Most companies will give you the option to choose a variety of meals as part of your subscription. Well these companies have a team of experts from within the veterinary industry who formulate the meals. These dog food delivery companies will usually make their experts available to offer advice — too. In our experience, most companies operate on a month-by-month basis so you can pause or cancel at any time. They use honest guidance and real ingredients to ensure your German Shepherd is eating a high-quality meal. While I prefer to feed dry food to my dogs, I do believe UnKibble is a great option for German Shepherd owners who reckon their pup will prefer dry food to cooked meals. Their sensitive skin and stomach formula is fully researched using food trials and their formulas and backed by veterinary nutritionists. Crafted with real salmon and easy on the tummy oats, this research-backed formula contains no soy, wheat, or artificial colors or flavors that can cause belly upsets or skin flare-ups. Essential Benefits Reinforced, nutritionally complete formula fortified with glucosamine and Omega-3 fatty acids for joint support so your GSD gets a dose of natural pain relief with every meal. Easily digestible salmon and ground oats for gentle nourishment. Boosted with natural prebiotic and probiotic fiber to help healthy gut bacteria thrive and balance out tummy troubles. Its larger kibble size for bigger breed dogs is specially developed to care for dogs prone to tummy trouble. With highly-digestible natural ingredients — along with added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids — your pet can more easily digest and absorb all the nutritious goodness. Included beet pulp, to help soothe the stomach and improve stool quality. Crafted with highly digestible ingredients to enable optimal nutrient absorption. Incorporates vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and a glossy coat. Prepared with natural ingredients for a healthy, wholesome meal that you can feel good about feeding your GSD. Do you want their potty problems to be history? This nutritional combination means your German Shepherd is well on her way to healthy, regular stools in as little as 7 days! And that means a healthier pet and household. Essential Benefits Simple, high-quality salmon is highly digestible and easy on delicate bellies. A combination of hand-selected ingredients aids in developing a healthy gut microbiome for overall digestive well-being. Premium dry dog food helps keep regular and healthy stools to lessen diarrhea. Includes an exclusive blend of prebiotics for soothing sore tummies, along with whole grain oats and pumpkin for tasty nutrition that is packed full of flavor to entice even picky eaters. Using highly digestible protein from fresh chicken, combined with nourishing prebiotic fiber, this grain-free formula helps promote nutrient absorption while helping ease sensitive stomachs. Apples and cranberries, full of vitamins C and E, are rich in antioxidants and promote a healthy immune system. To round out the skin-loving formula, flaxseed provides omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to help give your dog a lustrous coat and supple, smooth, skin. Essential Benefits Created using only highly digestible ingredients to support ideal nutrient absorption for maximum health benefits. Nourishing prebiotic fiber helps keep bowel movements running smoothly. Additional vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids reinforce healthy skin and provide the right balance of nourishment for a lustrous coat. This grain-free recipe contains natural ingredients for wholesome nutrition for German Shepherds with grain sensitivities. Recommended by veterinarians and backed by scientific studies. Essential Benefits Prepared with only 8 simple, real food ingredients for a complete and balanced high-protein meal. Contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives so susceptible tummies are less irritated. Free of grains, soy, and wheat for dogs with sensitive digestion and problem stomachs. This recipe emphasizes a carefully selected short ingredient list, made with just one animal protein and one vegetable to reduce allergies and stomach problems in German Shepherds. Essential Benefits Prepared with easily-digestible protein that provides all the essential amino acids your large-breed dog needs to keep their muscles strong. Natural omega fatty acids and antioxidants encourage healthy skin and coat, plus improved immune health. No artificial colors, preservatives, chicken, beef, fish, potato, sweet potato, chickpeas, corn, soy, wheat, or grains — for dogs with multiple sensitivities and the most delicate of stomachs. Shop Grain-Free Sensitive Food 7. This tasty formula contains a single animal protein source, real salmon, and incorporates pumpkin and easily digested carbohydrates for a simple, yet mouthwatering, meal. Essential Benefits A simple, but delicious, meal crafted with real salmon for digestible protein to help avoid an upset and sour stomach. High-quality ingredients like potatoes, peas, and pumpkin provide easy-to-digest carbohydrates for sensitive tummies. A gentle formula that is free from chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy, and eggs which can upset gut health. Made without poultry by-product meals, preservatives, and artificial flavors to keep the formula as gentle as possible for delicate stomachs. This is especially true when dealing with an aging dog that also frequently has food sensitivities. With whole grain oats and tasty pumpkin, the small-bite kibble is packed with nutrients that support digestive health and are easier to eat for those with dental issues. This means more regular, healthy stools for your German Shepherd and less clean-up for you. Scientifically proven formula reduces poor, runny stools in as short as one week. Closely resembles prescription gastrointestinal GI formulas at a fraction of the price to save you money while not sacrificing quality. Made to reduce odorous gas and improve overall digestion so you can enjoy more time next to your dog without stinky smells. The stress of leaving their littermates and learning a new routine can trigger stomach upset and digestion problems. Using real salmon complemented by rice this easy-to-digest meal provides your growing puppy with all the nutrition they need to fuel their bodies — all while easing their sensitive stomachs. Furthermore, the added sunflower oil and vitamin A promote a shiny coat and supple skin to give your puppy even more reason to cuddle. Essential Benefits Created with oatmeal and fresh salmon to promote gentle and calm digestion in German Shepherd puppies. Contains DHA from fish oil which aids in healthy brain and vision development in maturing puppies. Probiotics support digestive system function and immune health for more stable digestion. Prebiotic fiber encourages specific supportive good gut bacteria in the intestines to lessen irritation to the stomach. We will take a look at these great options and lots more in detail below. But first, the important question…. Products included in this article were carefully and independently selected by the Happy Puppy Site team. If you decide to make a purchase from one of the links marked by an asterisk, we may earn a small commission on that sale. This is at no extra cost to you. German shepherds do have digestive issues, and some of these issues may be caused by specific illnesses. Pancreatic Insufficiency For example, German Shepherds are prone to a genetic condition called exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. This illness is where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes to break down and digest food properly. This disorder is degenerative, so it worsens over time, and you are likely to notice some diarrhea and gas issues. If your pup has this disorder, bacteria develop within the intestinal tract since digestive juices are not abundant enough to keep growth at bay. The growth of these bacteria, as well as the passing of undigested food, account for the majority of the discomfort. Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis Eosinophilic gastroenteritis may be a problem as well, and this illness involves the inflammation of the intestinal tract and the stomach. This ailment is common in dogs like German Shepherds and it has many different causes. Parasites, bacterial infections, flea allergies, viral illnesses, and soft tissue injuries are all linked to the problem. You will typically see chronic diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and poor appetite with this disease. Malnutrition is a common issue with this ailment as well, and so is dehydration due to the watery diarrhea. Eosinophilic gastroenteritis can sometimes be confused with inflammatory bowel syndrome since the symptoms are extremely similar. The good news is that gastroenteritis typically requires more short term treatment than other bowel disorders, but this is not always true. Ulcers German Shepherds are prone to both oral and stomach ulcers. Sometimes the issue pops up on its own, but it is often a problem that develops due the treatment of another disorder. For example, canines that are given enzyme supplements to treat pancreatic diseases will often develop ulcers. Also, pain medications can cause a breakdown in the stomach lining and an ulcer may soon develop. Ulcers can lead to bloody stool, diarrhea, and a poor appetite. Like many other digestive issues that cause diarrhea, dehydration is a concern when it comes to ulcer formation. Food Intolerances in German Shepherds The digestive sensitivity that you notice with your German Shepherd may be caused by a simple case of food intolerance. Food intolerances are common in dogs, and this is especially true of German Shepherds. Allergies cause hives, itching, ear infections, and hair loss. Intolerances are more likely to produce intestinal issues like diarrhea, vomiting, and a generally upset stomach. Basically, an intolerance is similar to when you experience gas, bloating, and diarrhea after eating a spicy meal. There are many ingredients that can cause intolerance issues. Soy, chicken, wheat, eggs, chicken, lamb, fish, beef, and dairy are a few of the common culprits. Since there are so many reasons why your German Shepherd may be experiencing a sensitive stomach or a gastrointestinal issue, it is extremely important to work with your veterinarian to determine the cause of the issue. Oftentimes, it requires a combination of medicine and diet to ensure that your canine remains as healthy, happy, and pain free as possible. The good news is that there are a lot of choices out there. The bad news is that specialized foods are much more expensive than other types of food. Also, while some foods may be marketed as a sensitive stomach formula, they can cause more severe issues if you do not pay close attention to the ingredients. For example, many dog foods made for gastrointestinal issues are formulated with a single type of protein. If your canine happens to be allergic to this specific protein, then this can exacerbate the problem. For this reason, it is wise to work with your animal doctor to discover the cause of a possible intolerance before you start experimenting with different kinds of dog foods. You want to know exactly the best food for German Shepherd with sensitive stomach to look for. Dry German Shepherd Sensitive Stomach Dog Food If you have just started working with your veterinarian to discover the allergy or food intolerance that is bothering your canine, then it may be extremely difficult for you to choose a safe, single protein dog food right away. As you work with the animal expert, malnutrition issues do need to be addressed. This is a major concern if your poor pup has been dealing with diarrhea and vomiting for days or even weeks. Also, if an inflammatory condition is suspected then your dog will need a food that will not contribute to the inflammation. Thankfully, there are some relatively new types of dog foods that are appropriate for a wide variety of gastrointestinal conditions like pancreatic insufficiency, gastroenteritis, and food intolerance, according to some promising research studies. These foods use something called hydrolyzed protein. This food contains protein that is broken down to its molecular bits. This blend is grain free and has limited ingredients. Perfect for dogs with sensitivities to certain popular dog food recipes. A great choice if you are avoiding a common cause of digestive difficulties, and can remove certain proteins too. The main source of protein is bison. The choices are duck, salmon or lamb. A good range for a GSD who needs a more restricted diet to help them digest their dinner. It is made with salmon and potatoes, and is designed to be easily digestible. Worth a try if you are looking for the best dog food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet foods provide a good deal of fluid to the diet and can help your pup combat electrolyte imbalances. However, you should keep in mind that this food is not a hypoallergenic food, so it is best for general gastrointestinal issues or very mild inflammatory conditions. The Science Diet canned food is made with easily digestible and healthy ingredients like salmon, green beans, carrots, apples, and potatoes. It does not contain any grains, since grains often contribute to digestion problems. Artificial flavors, coloring agents, and preservatives are also not included in the food. This is great news for your German Shepherd. The fewer the artificial ingredients, the less likely your canine is to get sick. Wet German Shepherd Sensitive Stomach Dog Food If you love the idea of a canned German Shepherd sensitive stomach dog food, but want a product that has very few ingredients, like many of the hydrolyzed and hypoallergenic options, then there are some choices for you. It also contains no grain or gluten. This is ideal if you are working with your veterinarian to exclude certain ingredients to see which ones your canine can and cannot tolerate. Go with either the easy to digest lamb, rice, and barley recipe or the chicken, rice, and Barley formula. Both of these foods are relatively inexpensive and do not contain common food sensitivity ingredients like beef and corn. Puppy Food For German Shepherd Sensitive Stomach Since some gastrointestinal ailments are considered congenital, it is essential that you start your canine on a good diet plan at a young age. However, the diet needs of your German Shepherd puppy are quite different than those of an adult dog. For this reason, you may need a sensitive stomach puppy food. While this food is not marketed for young dogs with sensitive stomachs, the chicken and lamb formulas contain a good protein source for sensitive dogs. Also, the food contains no artificial flavors, preservatives, or coloring agents, and it is an easily digestible product. However, the food does contain some grains. This helps to add calories, but a grain-free alternative may be needed if you notice gas and diarrhea issues. This way, your growing puppy still gets the carbohydrates he needs. Royal Canin makes their food with the unique digestion challenges of the German Shepherd in mind. Of course, your senior German Shepherd has his special nutritional needs, and you should not be surprised if your canine develops stomach issues later in life. Like humans, dogs can develop illnesses, sensitivities, and allergies as they age. This food is grain-free and contains no filler materials. The product also has a number of ingredients to encourage digestion like enzymes, probiotics, and prebiotics. For dogs without other health problems, this is one of the best dog food for sensitive stomachs in German Shepherds in the twilight years. However, a hypoallergenic food might be required if your dog has a serious ailment. Make sure to work with your veterinarian to choose the best food to make sure that your canine receives the fat, calories, and essential nutrients that every senior dog needs. So, what is the best dog food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs? German Shepherds can develop a wide variety of gastrointestinal ailments, food sensitivities, and allergies that can make nutrition challenging. The good news is that there are so many great sensitive stomach, hypoallergenic, easily digestible, and hydrolyzed foods out there. Do you have a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach, or have you found the best food for GSD with sensitive stomach? Let us know in the comments below. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Oral ulceration and bleeding associated with pancreatic enzyme supplementation in a German shepherd with pancreatic acinar atrophy. Can Vet J. Cave, Nick. Hydrolyzed Protein Diets for Dogs and Cats. The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice. German shepherds are large dogs that usually weigh 60 to 90 pounds. According to the National Research Council of the National Academies, if you have an inactive or older dog, they require between 1, and 1, calories per day. Furthermore, active dogs need between 1, and 2, calories per day. This type of nutrition can only be provided by food specific to this breed. Also, unlike other dog breeds, German Shepherd pups are given a puppy-specific diet for only six months rather than one year. This is done so that rapid growth in the pup is limited as it can cause problems in their bones and joints. Yes, GSDs can eat a wide range of foods that are generic in nature. However, because of their large size and their activity levels, they might require a special diet. Yes, German Shepherds need a diet rich in protein. Here we will review the best dog food for German Shepherds so you can find the right match. We Feed Raw provides complete and balanced nutrition for dogs of all life stages. These patties exceed AAFCO standards and include muscle meat, organ meat, finely ground bone, and a proprietary blend of vitamins and minerals. The recipes at We Feed Raw are formulated by a Ph. Customers not only love these meals but say that the customer service is outstanding. Even the pickiest of eaters gobble their meals right up and have seen great results. Because it is rich in meaty protein, probiotic fiber that supports digestion and allergy prevention, and necessary vitamins and minerals that support general health and balance, this is the best grain-free dog food option for your German Shepherd. The main ingredient, ranch-raised beef, is combined with low-glycemic carbohydrates, and several superfood fruits and vegetables. Then, the ingredients are minimally processed — cold-pressed, roasted, and dehydrated to retain most of the nutrients and natural flavors. The recipe is enriched with live probiotics to ensure healthy digestion. It comes in the form of small, easily chewable, and bite-sized clusters. It also contains high-quality protein and prebiotics to support digestive health. Type: Dry dog food. Wheat Soy Certain ingredients often put in dog food may also cause a sensitive stomach. According to year veterinarian Dr. Marty Goldstein, these are ingredients such as preservatives, fillers like wheat, barley, corn, and white rice, as well as meat meal and meat by-products like undeveloped eggs. How to treat German Shepherd Dogs with a sensitive stomach The first course of action to take when you realize your canine friend has a sensitive stomach is to identify the cause. To do this, observe everything that the dog is taking in. While at it, ensure your dog is not feeding from bins or litter trays. Start by eliminating the usual culprits we already mentioned- meat, fish, chicken, and other sources of proteins. Proteins are the main cause of stomach upsets in German Shepherds. Also, check for high-fat foods and low-quality ingredients; these are also common culprits. Once the main cause is identified, finding remedies and treatment options is easier. If the symptoms are not severe, you can help soothe your dog by: Managing their feeding and switching their food First thing first, fast them for 12 to 24 hours to allow for their digestive system to rest and reset then: Switch to a limited-ingredient diet that contains very few ingredients and a single protein or Introduce bland food to minimize gastrointestinal GI distress. Bland foods are easy to digest and soothing to the stomach. They include boiled lean meat such as chicken breast, hamburger, or ground turkey and starch such as white rice or sweet potato. See this video below where Dr. Administering Medication Under the supervision of your vet: Administering over-the-counter medications like Pepto Bismol and Immodium. Introducing probiotics and prebiotics to their diet to restore beneficial bacteria in their GI tract. If the symptoms are severe or your dog already suffers from other underlying medical conditions, your dog will require professional treatment. A proper diagnosis will help rule out any serious medical concerns and offer your dog much-deserved relief. Best dog food for German Shepherds with a sensitive stomach 1. Best dry dog food for sensitive stomach and skin.
Our 'Puppy Quickstart Program' makes bringing a new puppy into your home easier! Do you want a german shepherd puppy.We offer shipping to select states and countries around the world for these trained puppies. Please note: availability for this year is extremely limited. The answer all depends. .From weeks your puppy is in its first fear stage, which is critical for expose to scenarios they will encounter in their future adult life. During this stage, puppies should be exposed to new people and other healthy dogs, as well as differing terrain and environment. These experiences provide the foundation for the adult dog they will eventually become, but first it's important for them to become a trained puppy. It is vital to keep all activities and real-world exposure extremely positive, safe and monitored as you train your puppy. This time period is critical for their future temperament and personality. If you work a normal job, putting the necessary hours into training your puppy during it's first month at home ages weeks may not be entirely possible. And leaving your young un-crate trained puppy alone in his or her crate for an entire day is sure to have detrimental affects down the road. Training a German Shepherd puppy is hard enough. When you leave the pup in their crate all day, this "ball of energy" becomes even harder to train and house-break. Introducing, the Puppy Quickstart program.The long-requested "trained puppy program" is finally here at Hayes Haus. Here's how it works: From ages weeks of your puppy's life, he or she will remain at Hayes Haus and partake in an extremely regimented training program. During this program, your new puppy will be monitored round-the-clock to ensure proper training and development, which includes but is not limited to socialization with strangers including well-behaved children as well as safe cats and dogs. In order for your puppy to be obey you around other pets, it's important to begin training them at an early age to do so. What goes into a "Trained Puppy Program"? On any particular day at Hayes Haus, your puppy will be going through any number of proven-safe scenarios for puppies. We take short rides in the car to some of our neighborhood parks and trails to use some of the natural obstacles; we teach puppies to pleasantly accept grooming and expose them to bathing; we instill good habits such as keeping your paws on the floor and eliminating on leash; we also use puppy games to teach important life commands. Here's a more in-depth breakdown for you: Training begins at 3 weeks of age, teaching the puppy to make eye contact The puppies are monitored around the clock and follow a very regimented schedule will send exact training schedule to the email address you enter above Socialization exercises are conducted daily All trained german shepherd puppies are available for pickup at 14 weeks of age. At this time, your puppy will know his or her name and be used to the schedule you provide us, which helps with easier integration into your home. When your puppy comes home, they'll be crate-trained, and have the groundwork extensive exposure to training for the following commands: Sit. Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.
Did You Know? How big do GSDs get? The German Shepherd is a large breed of dog. GSD males are ideally 24'' to 26'', weighing between 70 to 90 pounds, and females 22'' to 24'', weighing between 50 to 70 pounds. German Shepherd Coat? GSDs have an inner and an outer coat. Indeed, they shed heavily at times, but quick daily grooming with a coat "rake" helps greatly! GSDs make superior family pets. Great with adults, children, and infants alike. GSDs typically live 12 to 14 years. Guarding Skills GSDs are of the shepherding class of dogs and are thus inclined to protect the home and family. Many of my customers decide on a German Shepherd because of their renowned loyalty. They became familiar with the breed when they were growing up either with one in the home or through a neighbor or friend that had one. The fore legs are parallel and straight, while the rear legs are placed one more forward, and the other further back. This causes the head to be high, and the rump lower, looking at readiness and nobility. The stack pose is used in the show ring to exaggerate the dog's overall structure and is not the normal stance or position of the show line dogs. In short, it is an ordered examination of a dog's abilities in the disciplines of tracking, obedience, and protection, while Kkl is an abbreviated form of the German word "koerklasse. It is the final evaluation of many tests and trials to determine one simple thing about the dog.A dog with a Kkl rating of "passed" is deemed worthy to pass on its traits to the next generation. Call us to learn more about our puppies. Any puppies that qualify as a German Shepherd Mix are a cross between a German Shepherd and another dog breed. In a mixed breed, you can get any mix of characteristics in the parent breeds. German Shepherds tend to be strong-willed, intelligent, playful, and loyal. To get a full idea of what to expect in your puppy, be sure to ask the breeder about the other dog breed in the cross and check out the mother dog in-person to get a general idea about size and temperament. On the German Shepherd side, you have an independent dog with high intelligence and a playful spirit. German Shepherds make great family pets and are born protectors. Because of their protective instinct, they can be suspicious of strangers. Socialization early and often can help curb this suspicion and make them more open to new people and situations. German Shepherds also tend to be loving and have a lively personality. The German Shepherd Mix can have any or all of these characteristics plus any characteristics from the other parent breed in the mix. Before buying a German Shepherd Mix puppy and bringing them home, be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. If the puppies are being family-raised around children, you should be able to get an idea of how they will do in a family setting that includes children. The German Shepherd is a moderately adaptable working dog that was bred to guard, work, and herd. They do not tend to do well in apartments and are best-suited for houses with yards. GSDs prefer to be with their families and do not like to be alone. They also tend to prefer cooler climates as they are sensitive to heat. With a German Shepherd Mix, you could get a moderately adaptable dog that is just like a purebred German Shepherd. You could also end up with a dog that is more like the other parent breed. Talking with the breeder about the other parent breed can give you a good idea of what to expect. German Shepherds can be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. You will need to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an idea of any other health concerns to be aware of in your German Shepherd Mix. Health screenings, clearances, and the genetic history of the parents can help allay concerns about potential health conditions. On the German Shepherd side, training and obedience classes are highly recommended for novice dog owners. Although GSDs are highly intelligent, pick up on things quickly, and train fairly easily, they can be stubborn with an independent streak. Regardless of the other parent breed in the cross, you should be prepared to enroll in obedience and training classes with your German Shepherd Mix. The experience will be beneficial to both you and your puppy and will also offer some opportunities for socialization. You will still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an understanding of what to expect during the training process. Professional grooming a few times a year and the occasional bath is also recommended. Regardless of the coat type, your German Shepherd Mix will need to have their nails trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed regularly. Not every dog will allow you to do this, so try to get a tooth brushing session in at least a few times a week to reduce tartar buildup. This will help prevent dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, it will help cut down on bad breath! German Shepherds tend to have a high activity level. They were bred to run, herd, guard, and protect, so they are used to working and having a job to do. They are definitely not a lazy dog breed! Be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. You will still want to go in prepared for a high energy dog with the understanding that your German Shepherd Mix puppy may have an activity level closer to the other breed in the cross. If both are high energy dogs breeds, expect to end up with a high energy dog. A German Shepherd is a large dog breed that generally weighs between 55 and 90 pounds. They also usually stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulders. The other dog breed in the cross could result in a smaller or larger German Shepherd Mix. A German Shepherd generally lives for years. You should be able to expect a similar range in your German Shepherd Mix, but the other dog breed in the cross could affect this range. Featured German Shepherd Mix Article. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Pennsylvania? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Pennsylvania cost? The cost of online German Shepherd puppies will vary depending on a number of factors. Pedigree German Shepherd mix puppies for sale in PA , breeder experience and coat color black and silver German Shepherd puppies for sale in PA can all influence the price of dogs you find online. But if not, no problem—our partners are professionals when it comes to making travel arrangements for your puppy, and you can meet your friend at your nearest airport, too. How do you vet German Shepherd puppies in PA? A big difference is that tons of pet store dogs are coming directly from backyard breeders and puppy mills, especially for German Shepherd puppies PA. Dogs bred in these conditions often suffer from genetic and behavioral issues, and are more likely to die young. Because we never work with puppy mills, you can be sure that your new best friend was bred and raised with love. Do you have long haired German Shepherd puppies for sale in PA right now? Because Uptown only works with passionate breeders, businesses and dog-lovers, we have a stellar track record of helping families find great puppies all across the United States. How can I guarantee Uptown Puppies is ethical? Unlike pet stores and puppy mills, our main focus is helping connect the right families with the right puppies.
Whatever their diet is, make sure to feed them in moderation, overfeeding a pomeranian golden retriever mix is never a good idea. This means no table scraps and limited snacking and treats. Pomeranians shed less than goldens due to the texture of their fur, their dead hair gets trapped between their fluffy coats so you will have to groom them to get rid of the loose hair but even in the mix the shedding will be heavier when the seasons change. The mix needs to be brushed at least once a week because their coat is fluffy closer to the Pomeranian more than the retriever. So to deal with their coat correctly, you need to brush them with a sufficient frequency to prevent their coat from forming mats or you will struggle with tangles and knots in their coat as well. When you are grooming them, you need to remember to check inside their ear regularly for any signs of infection. The mix needs a bath about once or twice a month, make sure to choose the right shampoo and conditioner for them chemical-free and avoid too frequent bathing to avoid drying out their skin. Exercise Needs The pomeranian golden retriever mix is an energetic breed and they need to burn some energy or they may misbehave and show destructive behavior when they are bored. How much exercise do they need? The Golden Retriever Pomeranian mix needs a minimum of thirty minutes to one hour of good exercise per day, you can take them for a walk, train them to run with you, teach them how to swim, take them hiking, or just play fetch with them and just like that you will drain their energy so they can stay calm indoors. Also, according to the AKC, Pomeranians need less exercise than goldens because retrievers need lots of daily activity, meanwhile, Pomeranians need a minimum of 20 minutes of daily exercise. This means that the Pomtriever will usually fall somewhere in the middle, so it will need more exercise than the average Pomeranian but less than the Golden Retriever. However, your pup could lean to one of the breeds more than the other so if they lean toward the golden side then they need two walks a day and each one of them should last about 30 minutes but if they lean toward the pomeranian side, they will need less than 30 minutes. In short; your mileage may vary, and you will need to keep trying with your dog to find out what the sweet spot of exercise time and intensity is for them. Training Both the golden retriever and the pomeranian are highly intelligent and they are really easy to train, so as you can probably guess, the pomeranian golden retriever mix inherits this trait and you are going to have the easiest time training your pup, especially if you start training them when they are young. The most important tip when you are training your pomeranian golden retriever mix is to keep their training sessions short and on the point, because the Pomeranians can lose patience and attention with extended training sessions and the mix may inherit this trait so break the sessions into shorter daily sessions to make sure that you keep their attention span higher. Praise them when they are doing well because both golden and pom like to please their owners and need to hear that they are making you happy and pleased with them. The more exercise they get the easier they will be to train, also, make sure to socialize them when they are puppies. As Family Dogs The Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix is a perfect family dog for many reasons, and here is a quick explanation why, They are playful, loyal, energetic, and like to spend most of their time with their family members, all of that makes them an ideal choice if you have kids. The pomeranian golden retriever mix is not a toy dog or a large dog, they are considered a midsize breed which makes them the perfect size to be around children as they are less likely to injure the kids by mistake or get injured by kids playing rough with them. Since the breed is really energetic, they like to stay busy and have something to do so if they are not playing with the kids they will find something to do and you can easily train them to do the easiest chores around your home but keep an eye on them. They get along with other dogs and animals in general, so if you are thinking about getting a second dog then the pomeranian golden retriever mix is the ideal dog for you. As Guard Dogs Golden retrievers can be disastrous watchdogs because they love everyone but the Pomeranians are pretty decent when it comes to alarming their owner that something suspicious is going on and the mix inherits that from the pomeranian and both dogs will do anything to protect their loved ones. The pomeranian golden retriever mix is pretty vocal and will bark whenever a stranger is at the door or senses that something wrong is happening and can help protect your family and property. Where to find them? Most breeders will do anything to get the cutest dog ever without considering their health and then will sell them for a ridiculous amount of money, so if you are getting a puppy from a breeder, please, make sure that the puppy is in good health and not suffering from any health issue. You can also ask your local vet about the breed that you want and they may know a trustable breeder or a shelter that may have that breed. Yes, the pomeranian golden retriever mix is a good family dog because both the pomeranian and the golden are extremely friendly, they love meeting new people, the mix breed is an excellent watchdog, they are playful, loyal, and like to spend lots of time with their family. Is the Pomeranian golden retriever mix easy to train? Yes, the pomeranian golden retriever mix is easy to train, since both golden retriever and pomeranian are highly trainable because of their intelligence, which means that you will have the easiest time training your pomeranian golden mix if you start training them when they are puppies. Is the Pomeranian golden retriever mix good with kids? How much is the Pomeranian golden retriever mix? Is the Pomeranian golden retriever mix smart? Yes, the pomeranian golden retriever mix is smart because both golden Retrievers and pomeranian are intelligent breeds, so their mix will be really smart and loyal and will make great family dogs due to their ability to be trained easily. Living with a Retriever: Recommendations and Sources Want the best diet for your dog? Check out the best and healthiest foods for golden retrievers at every age here — Dry, Wet, Homemade Recipes, and Treats! Taking a walk? These are the best leashes, collars, and harnesses for the buck that you can find. Are they easy to train? Pomeranian Golden Retriever Mix history Because this breed is a hybrid dog, it's difficult to pinpoint exactly when it was first bred. It's best to look at the Pomeranian and Golden Retriever history to understand these little dogs a bit more. He wanted a dog that was very loyal, hardworking and that could help him hunt and retrieve. And with good reason! They're a really loyal family pet and have a wonderful temperament. They're caring, highly intelligent, and love to be around humans and other pets when well trained. As well as having a brilliant personality, Golden Retrievers are also very attractive dogs. They can grow to a height of .Of course, they're also a beautiful golden color. They're highly trainable and love to be put to work — whether that's helping you hunt or constantly fetching a ball! Pomeranian — Parent dogs Pomeranians are courageous, tiny, and extremely fluffy dogs. They were first bred in an area called Pomerania which was located in northern Germany and Poland. They're actually a descendent and the smallest of the Arctic Spitz breeds, so they also come from a long line of working dogs. Although their ancestors were hard-working, sled-pulling pups , Pomeranians are better known for being adorable lap dogs. They're energetic, intelligent, and caring around their humans. Just like the Golden Retriever, a Pomeranian has a double coat which helps them to stay cool in summer and warm in winter. Golden orange is the most common coat color, however, these tiny, fluffy pups come in 13 official colors recognized by the American Kennel Club! Temperament and personality of the Golden Retriever Pomeranian mix Even though they're not similar in size, there are a few personality traits that both the Golden Retriever and the Pomeranian have. It's only normal, therefore, that the Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix would have them too! These dogs are friendly, intelligent, playful, and very loyal. They love nothing more than to be with their family, whether that's snoozing on your lap or catching a ball in the garden. They're very sociable dogs. This, however, means they don't like being left alone. They love human attention and to keep busy in between naps and they're prone to developing separation anxiety if left alone for too long. A Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix is the perfect dog for you if you're looking for a pup to be the center of your world! Because they're so small, Pomeranians are not really used as working dogs, but more to look pretty on your lap. And whilst a Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix isn't a working dog either, they do make great guard dogs thanks to how alert their Pomeranian parents are! Appearance of the Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix If you think about the two parent breeds, it's hardly surprising that this mixed breed dog is seriously good-looking. But also, when you think about a Golden Retriever and a Pomeranian, it's hard to imagine how they could possibly breed — they're just so different! The size of your dog can vary quite a lot. Generally speaking, they're a little closer to a Golden Retriever size rather than a Pomeranian. Because a Pomeranian has small ears which stand up, and a Golden Retriever floppy ones, your hybrid pup could have either. Pomeranian Golden Retriever mixes can have facial features more similar to either parent breed. It's important you get your puppy from a reputable breeder as they'll be able to help you understand what your pup may look like and how big they'll be when they grow up. If you get your dog from an F1 or F1b breeder, you'll be getting a puppy that's from two purebred dogs in this case, a Pomeranian mating with a Golden Retriever. It's likely that in this litter the puppies will all look fairly different. If you choose an F2, F2b, or F3 breeder you'll get a dog that's been bred from two mixed-breed parents. The puppies will look more similar and you'll be able to get a realistic understanding of what your pup will look like. Normally although not necessarily , these designer dogs have a golden or golden orange coat. This color is the most common of both parents, so it's only natural they'd also have it. What's more, it's common for a Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix to have fur which is a bit fluffier and more consistent with that of a Pomeranian. They also have very different exercise requirements. Because Pomeranians only have little legs, they're happy with a short walk and a bit of play in the backyard. Golden retrievers, however, need a lot of exercise to keep healthy. They'll need a decent walk a day, plus time playing in the doggie park or enjoying a game of fetch with you. Both the Pomeranian and Golden Retriever need a lot of mental exercise if they're not to become bored and frustrated. How much exercise your Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix needs really depends on how big they are. Larger pups will need more and smaller pups less. Both parent breeds are highly intelligent and excel in training. Golden Retrievers are generally really happy to please their owners and will love training sessions. Pomeranians, on the other hand, will enjoy training as long as it doesn't go on too long. It's important to keep training time fun, with lots of positive reinforcement from you. Again, how your pup responds to training will really depend on which parent breed they take after more. As long as it's fun, they should love it! Grooming a Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix Do they shed? Because these dogs have a double coat you can expect them to shed all year round. Getting yourself a decent brush can help to keep shedding to a minimum. Because this mixed breed has long, fluffy fur, it's important you regularly brush your dog's coat to stop mats from forming. Daily brushing can also help to spread important oils which will keep their coat and skin healthy. Health and life expectancy of Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix Generally speaking, mixed breeds suffer from fewer illnesses and health conditions than their purebred ancestors. There are, however, a few conditions that can be passed down from Golden Retrievers and Pomeranians. Patella Luxation. This is a painful condition in which the kneecap slips in and out of place. Hip and elbow dysplasia. Dysplasia is a common health concern for many dog breeds. It's a condition in which the bone doesn't fit into the joint properly and can be quite serious. Eye issues. Both Pomeranians and Goldens can suffer from an array of eye diseases. An underactive thyroid condition. Heart issues. This breed can suffer from a few different cardiac issues. On the whole, Pomtrievers are pretty healthy pups. If you make sure you feed them well, give them the right amount of exercise, and entertain them enough they should live a very happy and healthy life — roughly 10 to 12 years! Before getting your hybrid puppy, it's important to check that the breeder has done all the necessary tests and checks to make sure your dog is as healthy as possible! It's also worth checking in shelters because you may find one of these adorable dogs there! Do they make good family pets? They're really loving dogs and care a lot about their family members. If trained well, they're also good with children and other animals. They're very intelligent dogs and will pick up new tricks easily. They love to please their owners and be praised. Training should be done regularly and it's important that it's always fun so they don't get bored and lose interest in it! Would you consider getting a Golden Retriever Pomeranian mix? They make great pets! Animals have always been a huge part of my life, so writing about dogs is a total pleasure! Photo from: bad. Even though Pomeranians and Golden Retrievers are nothing alike when it comes to their physical appearance, they both share the same family values. Both of these parent breeds are quite favorable among dog owners and breeders. This is because of their exquisite intelligence, trainability, and a positive attitude. Golden Retrievers are known for their outstanding training performance as they are easily trained and task-oriented. On the other hand, the Pom, which qualifies among the smallest dog breeds in the world, has a huge personality! When combined together, these two dogs make an excellent mixed breed dog that collects the finest traits of both parents. This breed requires thirty to sixty minutes of exercise a day, which is quite reasonable and not so overwhelming. Still, the puppy enjoys being outside, and it will gladly accompany you on walks, hikes, or road trips. The reason why Golden Retrievers may display an aggressive attitude is because they are naturally a watchdog that is eager to protect their family at all times. Furthermore, both of these dogs are AKC recognized. These are well-known dogs to breeders, and they have been a part of the AKC family for a very long time. You will see both of these dogs competing in agility, conformation, and obedience. Golden Retriever This beautiful canine is an interesting, purebred dog. The history behind this breed is quite complex. It was originally designed as a mix between a Yellow Retriever and the long-time extinct Tweed Water Spaniel. However, the original idea of breeders was to design a good working dog. Today, this dog is a pure breed with almost a hundred-year-long tradition of being a member of the American Kennel Club. Even though this is not the healthiest dog breed in the world, Golden Retrievers have a good lifespan. The breed can live up to 16 years, which is pretty amazing. This dog is 23 to 24 inches tall, and its average weight revolves around 65 to 75 pounds, according to the AKC. These are the standard proportions of an adult Golden Retriever. Anything below or above this weight is a cause for alarm. Golden Retrievers are prone to heart diseases and hip dysplasia. Both of these issues can be worsened by extra weight. A golden color with few dark and light variants is their breed standard. This magnificent canine has a double coat of medium length. Grooming can be overwhelming at times as this puppy sheds a lot. These cute puppies are proud members of the smallest dogs club. Pomeranians have a great personality as they get along with owners pretty well, and they are easily adaptable to an indoor life. However, there may be some setbacks on the way. Pomeranians are not exactly recommended for families with small children. This is because this dog is a toy breed, and it has a fragile body physique. However, Pomeranians are prone to obesity. They gain weight easily, especially because this breed is not as active as other, more athletic dogs. You should be pretty aware of the fact that Pom puppies require a well-established feeding chart. Avoid junk food, as well as the worst dog food brands on the market. Also, make sure your puppy gets healthy snacks only. Poms have a pretty long lifespan, too. They live 12 to 16 years on average. This is a good family dog that you can find in black, white, blue and merle, cream, orange, red, sable, and chocolate color variants. However, the idea behind crossbreeding Golden Retrievers with Pomeranians was to design a dog that would preserve excellent family traits, but at the same time, do great with families with small children. This Golden mix is more likely to be up to 20 inches tall, which makes it more suitable for playing with small kids. Its body is not as vulnerable as with Pomeranian puppies. On the other hand, breeders wanted to design a puppy that has better stamina. Golden Retrievers are known for their working-dog nature, which is not the case with Pomeranian puppies. Even though this is not one of the easiest dogs to potty train , the Pomtriever puppy is quite intelligent. Still, they need a lot of mental stimulation and positive reinforcement. The Golden Retriever Pomeranian Mix, though, shows a higher tendency for outdoor training and activities. Basically, the span of activities has expanded by crossbreeding these two dogs. This puppy comes in a double coat of medium length, which sometimes can be overwhelming. This is not a hypoallergenic dog, and grooming has to be done weekly. You may want to subject your puppy to a vet examination first. Some puppies are allergic to certain ingredients, which causes constant scratching, itchiness, or lumps all over the body. Furthermore, the height of this canine generally revolves around 20 inches. However, some puppies can reach from between 22 and 23 inches, which is the credit of the Golden Retriever puppy. The average weight of Pomtrievers is between 50 and 60 pounds. There are, however, some mixes that weigh significantly less, but the overall physique of this dog depends on the bloodline. The Pomtriever size depends on the bloodline. However, as we have already mentioned above, the average weight of this puppy is most likely to reach 50 to 60 pounds. On the other hand, most Pomeranian Golden Retriever Mixes reach up to 20 inches in height, and some of them get even taller. Pomtrievers are not as active as Golden Retrievers, and they may gain weight faster. Before putting your puppy on a raw food diet — consult a vet first. Furthermore, exercise is quite important for the healthy life of a Golden Retriever Pomeranian Mix. It helps puppies stay in shape, and at the same time, it keeps your puppy mentally balanced. Coat Color The Pomtriever has kept the gorgeous Pomeranian colors , which means that you can find this puppy in golden, chocolate, brindle, cream, orange, white, black, or red variants. It is a true blessing to have this dog in your home. It has a wonderful look, and at the same time, it is affectionate, well-behaved, and loyal. However, a future owner could have an overwhelming task as these puppies are not easy to groom. They are moderate shedders, but you can struggle with frequent tangles. Your puppy will get used to one sleeping place, which can save you some time cleaning. The Pomeranian Golden Retriever Mix is not recommended for people who suffer from dog allergies. This is a stable, composed dog. Golden Pomeranians are excellent family dogs, but they have the traits of solid working dogs, too. These traits are related both to Golden Retrievers and Pomeranians. Poms, which are members of a Spitz family, have been sled dogs in the past. On the other hand, Golden Retrievers are known as working dogs and service dogs. The latter is also known for its extraordinary intelligence. Golden Retrievers are known as one of the best family dog breeds in the world. Well, the same goes for the crossbreed — Pomtrievers. The Pomeranian Golden Retriever Mix has a high level of adaptability. Even though this dog is naturally affectionate and attached to its owner, it requires early obedience training as well as early socialization. This way, you will make sure that your puppy has a well-mannered behavior in the future. On the other hand, socialization is needed if you have other pets. Sometimes, the Pomtriever puppy can see smaller pets, such as hamsters, birds, or cats, as prey. Your job is to develop its social skills slowly, patiently, and with lots of positive reinforcement. However, if you are a first-time dog owner, the best thing you can do is take advice from experienced breeders or dog behaviorists. They have been family members for quite some time. However, improper socialization training can lead to undesirable behavior. This is always a good choice, and it will save you from unnecessary stress. Generally, these puppies are socialized by default as both of their parents — the Golden Retriever and the Pomeranian — are quite friendly. They love hanging out in a house, but they also adore spending time outdoors. Furthermore, a good idea would be to mentally stimulate your puppy during socialization training. This is a highly intelligent dog breed that gets bored easily. It is mostly in cases of imminent danger. They feel the need to alarm their owner and to protect their home. The same goes for Pomeranian Golden Retriever Mixes. The dog generally has a calm nature; however, they can be aggressive if provoked. This is not necessarily a bad thing. This way, the puppy shows loyalty and responsibility. However, if you have adopted a Pomtriever dog exclusively for indoor purposes, you may want to consider purchasing dog training collars. These training supplements have proven to be an excellent option in obedience training. As friendly as these dogs naturally are, they still need good leadership and early socialization. They need a firm, but gentle hand of an owner that shows them direction. These puppies are always eager to please their owner, and they will do anything to accomplish that goal. This puppy has a high energy level, but it will be perfectly satisfied with thirty to sixty minutes of training sessions. Its playfulness and energetic behavior can be directed to games for mental stimulation as Pomtrievers love engaging in all sorts of activities. They are natural wanderers, which is why you always need to come up with new, creative ideas for training. Just like German Shepherds and Poodles, they perfect tasks easily. You can create a playground in your back yard designed for agility and obedience training. The puppy will love it! These canines are easily trained. Generally, all Golden mixes have a high tendency of being easily trained. For instance, Goldendoodle potty training is a piece of cake in comparison to some other dog breeds. The two most common health problems for a Pomeranian Golden Retriever Mix are hip dysplasia and heart diseases. Other than that, some puppies can develop eye conditions, patellar luxation, or hypoglycemia. The best Pomtriever breeders will sell you a puppy with at least a one-year health guarantee and vet documentation. Other than that, you will get a puppy with a reliable bloodline, your first pack of food and food supplements, a dog collar and a leash, and a microchip. The first vaccine and deworming are generally included in the overall price with all reputable breeders. Regular vet checkups will save your dog from possible long-term treatment. Hip Dysplasia Hip Dysplasia in dogs sometimes represents a painful condition. This is a hereditary issue that affects puppies during the early stage of life. It represents a joint malfunction and a hip irregularity. Puppies that suffer from this condition are unable to jump or run properly. However, it can be a starting point for some other bone injuries and fractures. If your dog suffers from hip dysplasia, you need to monitor its physical activities all the time. You should not overwhelm your dog with extra activities and high-intensity training. This condition is curable usually by surgery. However, this surgical procedure is not cheap. The first step towards the prevention of hip dysplasia in your dog will be choosing a reputable breeder. This condition is detected at an early age, which means no reputable breeder will sell you a puppy that suffers from this issue. Heart Problems Unfortunately, heart disease in dogs is a pretty common issue that affects Pomtriever puppies. The establishment of a proper feeding chart and a solid daily routine is key. The Pomeranian Golden Retriever Mix requires a proportional representation of protein, fats, and carbohydrates in its food. However, a consultation with a vet is highly recommended as some puppies can be allergic to certain ingredients. The Golden Retriever Pomeranian mix requires at least thirty to sixty minutes of moderate exercise during the day. If, by any chance, you notice lack of energy, couching, fatigue, a swollen stomach, or reduced appetite in your dog — visit a vet as soon as possible. These things might be the symptoms of a progressive heart disease. Excessive weight loss or weight gain can be another symptom. The treatment of heart diseases includes medication or, in some cases, surgery. A puppy that suffers from this type of disease requires regular vet exams. Generally, the lifespan of these puppies is between 12 and 16 years, which is pretty amazing. Even though the breed is not qualified among the healthiest dog breeds in the world, this puppy still has a respectable health and a pretty long lifespan. The biggest reason why these puppies live so long is due to their dog parents — the Golden Retriever and the Pomeranian. Both of these purebred dogs live a long and happy life, and they can reach up to 16 years as well. The first is spaying or neutering. However, veterinarians agree that the best time to do so is at the end of its first year of age. The same goes for a Pomeranian Golden Retriever Mix. Frequently Asked Questions Source: itsyukipom 1. This is an intelligent dog that fits perfectly into a cozy, family life. Both parent breeds have shown exquisite family and social skills over the years. In fact, Golden Retriever breeders will tell you that this puppy is favorable both as a working dog and as a family dog. The same goes for its successor — the Pomtriever. The pros of having both a Golden Retriever and a Pomeranian are the following: — they are outstanding family dogs — both dogs are quite intelligent — they have naturally good social skills — they are adaptable to new environments On the other hand, their cons are: — they sometimes bark way too much — their medium-long coat sheds, especially during a season change — Golden Retrievers may suffer from hip dysplasia and heart diseases However, every dog has its own relative path, and a good part of their behavior depends on the approach. All Golden Retriever mixes, including Mini Golden Retrievers, require early obedience training, and a lot of patience, commitment, and love. This puppy has outstanding social skills and family traits. These are intelligent puppies that require a lot of mental stimulation. They get bored easily, and they need creative ways of entertainment. Conclusively, Pomtrievers get along great with all family members, especially kids. If you provide a good, nurturing home for one of these beautiful canines, you will get a lifetime of happiness! Read more:. Not too big, not too small Easily trained Breed History The idea of crossbreeding a Golden Retriever with a Pomeranian might surprise you. Afterall, one is a medium-sized dog while the other falls into the toy category. This makes them an odd match indeed. Yet when bred responsibly, the Golden Pom is a lovely canine companion. Each breed has its own unique origin story. He used his own yellow retriever—the singular black puppy in a litter of blonde—with a Tweed Water Spaniel. Later, Irish Setters and Bloodhounds were added until, finally, they were officially recognized as a truly independent breed in .In contrast, the Pomeranians come from a much more regal line. Give a curtsy, because they are royal dogs! Northern sled dogs guarded livestock and pulled cargo in the snowy region. After hundreds of years, people bred these dogs smaller and smaller until eventually, a miniature version was born. Queen Victoria then became smitten with Pomeranians during a trip to Italy. She carried a handful home to Britain. From big and burly Arctic sled dog to tiny powderpuff, the Pom has come a long way. Nowadays, it is a popular choice to create hybrids. Facts about the Golden Pom Whenever two dissimilar breeds are crossed, the genetic outcome is a little bit of a gamble. Remember, the Golden Retriever is a tall and long muzzled dog, whereas a Pomeranian is short, stubby, and flatter faced. So, they could theoretically have traits of both parents. Golden Poms have a reputation for being healthy dogs. A well-bred puppy who receives proper care and food can expect to live anywhere between 10 and 12 years. Unique Qualities: Because of their highly alert natures, they make excellent watchdogs. Expect a Golden Pom to bark at intruders and probably the mailman, too. Do they shed: Oh yes! Hypoallergenic: Definitely not. Family Friendly: Yes. Golden Poms love being the center of attention and are also often the life of the party. They will play with children and entertain guests with their silly antics. Health Issues: The biggest concern with this breed has to do with their physical limitations. Classification: Being a hybrid breed , there is no official classification AKC. However, Golden Retrievers are working dogs and Pomeranians are toy dogs, making them an interesting blend of both. One word: furry. A Golden Retriever Pomeranian mix will be a total fluff ball, right from the second they are born. Their appearance will reflect both their mother and father. So, expect to see a coat that ranges from light whitish cream to a sunset gold color. Since a Golden Retriever has floppy ears and a Pom has erect triangle ears either could be expressed genetically. In addition, their legs could be longer or shorter. However, most Golden Poms take after the Retriever side, meaning they will be on the taller end. This is especially true if your dog is F1 first generation Golden Pom puppy. Eyes are typically chocolate brown. Tails are long and feathered, sometimes with a slight curl. But the most striking characteristic? So cute! Is Shedding a Problem? Due to their thick double coats, a Pom Retriever will shed 12 months per year. This makes them cooler during hot summer months. Invest in a good brush and vacuum before adopting a Golden Pom. What Should Pom Retrievers Eat? To maintain those luscious coats, you must feed a Pom Retriever the right diet. Well, because both Golden Retrievers and Pomeranians tend to be overweight. They just love to eat! A kibble or raw food diet should consist of meat for protein, veggies, and fatty acids, like those from fish oils. This will help keep their golden coats shiny, too. That means go easy on the table scraps such as fruits and tamales. How Do You Groom Them? The easiest method of grooming a Golden Retriever Pomeranian is to simply drop them off at the doggy salon. But, as a pet parent, home grooming can save money and allow for bonding time with your pet. Therefore, those who want to DIY must have the right tools and prepare ahead of time. Dog Wish suggests a good brushing 2—3 times each week. Add a pin brush and slicker brush to your routine to prevent matts and tangles. Exercise and Energy Levels Want to go play fetch? Golden Retrievers were originally meant to be working dogs, chasing after partridge and water birds. And they never lost their strong prey drive. Pomeranians are also high energy dogs by nature. So, break out those walking shoes. Your dog will need at least two 30 minutes walks each day, plus playtime and off leash time to stay happy and healthy. Yet there are still a few health concerns to be aware of. They may also suffer from patella luxation when the knee cap comes out of place. Cancer Tracheal collapse Heart disease Tooth decay — Pomeranians are a breed that is one of the most prone to dental problems. Here are some tips on how to provide dental care without brushing their teeth every day. Pay attention to any ailments and see a veterinarian early. How much do these dogs usually cost? The biggest pros of adopting one of these dogs are: friendly and affectionate personalities, gorgeous appearance, high trainability, and convenient size. As far as cons go, it really depends upon the owner. Somebody who hates cleaning up tumbleweeds of fur, finds barking loud and annoying, and cannot commit to at least 1—2 hours of exercise every day should probably steer clear of a Golden Pom. The fun-loving Retriever mixed with the spunky Pomeranian absolutely makes this hybrid breed a winner in our books. Both breeds are often very food motivated and can be trained with patience and treats. You can expect the same from a Pomtriever. It will be a very smart dog that you can easily train with small training sessions with treats as rewards. Both breeds are also known for being diligent watchdogs that are prone to alert their owners to any perceived dangers. You can also expect a Pomtriever to be prone to barking. Luckily, these dogs are very intelligent and can be trained not to bark uncontrollably. Golden Retrievers on the other hand are known for being high energy and requiring lots of exercise and space to run and play. You can expect a Pomtriever to be a high-energy dog that loves to play and run. A Pomtriever is best suited in a home that has a nice yard to run and play in. Do Pomtrievers Get Bored Pomeranians and Golden Retrievers are both highly intelligent dogs that are prone to getting bored. Pomtrievers would have the same mental needs. Separation anxiety can become serious and lead to undesirable behaviors like barking, pacing, urinating in the house, as well as destruction. Not all dogs will experience a high level of anxiety but, it is recommended not to get one of these breeds if they will be left home alone for a long time every day. Since both breeds are prone to separation anxiety you can expect a Pomtriever to be vulnerable to the same condition. Are Pomtrievers Good With Families Pomeranians are not the best fit in a home with very young children due, to their small stature and vulnerability to injury. Golden Retrievers are much larger in size which makes them a better fit for a family. When you mix the two together, you end up with a dog that is not too small for young children but, is playful and friendly. One of the reasons is that they are not a breed that is recognized by the AKC. I often suggest searching the AKC Marketplace for available puppies and breeders. If you are looking for a highly intelligent dog that loves to play a Pomtriever may be a good fit. Pomtrievers are bigger than Pomeranians making them less fragile but, also less mobile. A Pomtriever may also be more difficult to locate compared to Pomeranians and Golden Retrievers. Regardless of whether you choose a Pomeranian, Golden Retriever, or a Pomtriever you are destined to have a friend for life. I currently have three Pomeranians and grew up with a Golden Retriever. They are all wonderful dogs, I can only imagine a Pomtriever would be a wonderful addition to any family. Other Articles You May Enjoy! If you like the lapdog size of the Pomeranian and are a fan of the loving and playful nature of the Golden Retriever, then the Pomtriever mix is a perfect pet for you. The Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix is a tricky dog to breed. It is only possible to achieve the desired result by impregnating a female Golden Retriever with the sperm of a male Pomeranian. Once born, though, these dogs are some of the cuddliest, most loyal, and most fun dogs out there. Their small size and their lovable Golden temperament make them a splendid companion or family dog, especially for those who live in smaller quarters. We are bringing you all you need to know about the Pomtriever mix. So casual enthusiasts and potential pet-owners alike, come one, come all and learn all about this lovable mix. They are as cute as they sound. This mix keeps the coloration of the Golden Retriever, although with a slightly lighter tinge to the fur. Besides the fur and the size, the Pomtriever largely keeps the features of their Golden Retriever parents. Their facial construction and body composition is more reminiscent of a Golden, only slightly scaled down. If you want to talk specifics, the average Pomeranian Golden mix measures twenty-one to twenty-four inches tall at the shoulder and weighs fifty-five to seventy-five pounds 53 to 61 cm and 25 to 34 kg, respectively. Lifespan The Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix enjoys a ten to twelve year lifespan on average. If taken care of well enough, some can live to be even older. The long lifespan of their small-dog ancestors help to boost the number higher than the average Golden Retriever lifespan. Grooming Needs Golden Retrievers are infamous shedders. However, the Pomtriever is still a significant shedder. Their medium- to long-length hair requires weekly, if not daily, brushings to help allay the worst of the shedding and to prevent tangles and knots in their coat. Regular baths, about once or twice a month, with chemical-free pet shampoo are more than enough to keep your pet clean. Temperament The personalities of the Golden and the Pomeranian are well-balanced in the Pomtriever. Golden Retrievers are some of the best family dogs in the world. They are great family dogs and can play with children and adults alike for hours on end. This mix also inherits the keen sense of the Pomeranian to make it an excellent guard dog. Throw in the size of the Golden Retriever, and you have the best of both worlds. As an owner, this means that you need to ensure they get their daily allotment of exercise to help prevent them from getting too rambunctious and destructive in the house. Thirty minutes to hour-long walks are great for giving your dog the exercise it needs and draining its energy so it is calm indoors. Your Pomtriever will also love to play games with you. Fetch, tug-of-war, and any other activity or toy will keep them entertained. Health Risks As with every mixed breed, the Pomeranian Golden mix is bound to have some genetic problems. Before these happen, there are two preventative measure you can take to ensure a happy and healthy pet. Be sure to buy your dog from a reputable breeder that provides a health guarantee. There is nothing sadder or more dangerous than a breeder that engages in unsafe practices to breed dogs. Take your Pomtriever to the vet for regular checkups or if you suspect there is something wrong. Some of the most common health problems seen in Pomeranian mixes are allergies, skin problems, and joint dysplasia. Feeding Feeding any hybrid dog can be a tricky task, as the size and needs can vary from dog to dog. If you put your Pomtriever on a raw food diet or on a diet of dry food specialized for their size and which lacks additives or fillers, your dog should be happy and healthy. The amount to feed them is trickier to specify. As stated before, the size of the Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix differs from dog to dog. If you want to get an accurate recommendation of how much to feed your pet, visit your local vet. They will know best. Both Pomeranians and Golden Retrievers are protective breeds. Golden Retrievers also have a wonderful sense of danger and will stick close to their owner if they pick anything up. The Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix combines these good guard dog qualities into one package. In short, yes, the Pomtriever is an excellent guard dog. Buying a dog is not a purchase you want to skimp on financially, either. If you add the initial purchase cost to the recurring costs that come with owning a pet vet visits, food, toys, etc. When deciding if a breed is right for you, there are many things to consider: the living space you can provide; your financial ability to provide for the pet; the time you can dedicate to playing with it, walking it, and grooming it; and the personality dynamic between you and your potential pet. Last, if you enjoy an energetic, loyal, and clever dog, the Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix is a perfect pet to have. Their medium to long length fur offers some insulation, but not on the level of Huskies and Samoyeds. If you live in a mild climate with a temperature on average between 40 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, then your Pomtriever will be comfortable. If not engaged enough, both physically and mentally, then their behavior can turn destructive. You need at least 30 minutes per day to walk them and drain their physical energy. You should also take time to play and bond with them daily. Playing games, running around outside, or even just petting and cuddling is a great way to strengthen the bond with your pet. It inherits the gentle, family-dog nature of the Golden Retriever and the fun-loving attitude of the Pomeranian to make for a gentle playmate for kids of any age. Compatibility with Other Animals If properly socialized and trained, the Pomeranian Golden Retriever mix can get along great with other pets, cats or dogs. You Might Also Like:.
If you want someone to keep you company or provide warm cuddles, an adorable dog will surely fit the bill. And why not, when owning a dog has undeniable mood-boosting benefits? However, one truth remains: having a dog can also be financially demanding. What to Consider Before Owning a Dog According to the mental health publication HelpGuide, playing with a dog can elevate serotonin and dopamine levels. But taking care of dogs, particularly the younger ones, can also be physically taxing and financially demanding. With that, you need to be emotionally and financially prepared before you take home a pooch. Here are some things you need to consider before getting a dog. Apart from paying the puppy price in the Philippines, can you pay for everything your dog will need, from food to medicine and veterinary care? Remember that these are not just one-time expenses. If you live in a condo or a small apartment, does your landlord allow dogs? Is there a fenced yard where they can play off-leash, or is there enough indoor space for your dog to roam around safely? If you live in a house with stairs or a balcony, or on a busy street with no gate, consider these danger zones. Think about how you can put up safety measures for your dog and make your home as pet-friendly as possible. Moreover, you must also prepare for your personal space to be invaded once you have a dog. No matter how much you clean your house or train your dog, there will always be a mess when there are dogs around. You feed and groom them. You potty-train them, clean after them, take them out for walks and playtime, and bring them to the vet for their check-ups. In short, dogs will take up a lot of your time and energy. You may have to sacrifice your me time or hobbies for cuddles, walks, training, and playtime with your dog. If you live with a roommate, a significant other, or family members, they must also be on board with your plans to be a fur parent. Its distinctive underbite creates its homely appeal. This breed also charms its owners with its affectionate and friendly demeanor. The life expectancy of a Shih Tzu is 10 to 18 years, so you can enjoy many happy years loving and taking care of it. They can be goofy, too. However, remember that these dogs are athletic and require regular exercise. Keep them active and physically preoccupied. Also, make sure that your home has an air-conditioning system. They have thick coats which resemble that of a lion. This pup is ideal for people living alone or with a small family. Training is needed, especially at a young age, to help them manage their territorial tendencies. Golden Retrievers are commonly described as friendly, intelligent, and confident. Aggression is rarely observed in them, and they have a very gentle disposition. Owing to their mild and friendly personality, Golden Retrievers make great emotional support dogs and guides for the blind. The American Kennel Club describes them as kind, active, and outgoing. Back then, these dogs were used for hunting, detection, and tracking. These days, they function as therapy dogs and guides for the disabled. While pleasant and friendly, these dogs bark a lot. They could use some training here. Usually bred for companionship, Bichons are playful yet gentle dogs that get along well with kids and other pets. This makes a Bichon Frise a lovely addition to a family with children. They love cuddles and lots of playtimes since they have an athletic disposition. You can say that Beagles are people pleasers because they love making friends with strangers. Yes, this breed is sociable and natural people pleasers. When you have one, expect that it will demand your undivided attention. However, Poms can be quite willful, dominant, and stubborn. You can curb such dispositions by giving your pet training early on. While it undergoes training, you may witness how intelligent your Pom can be, as it responds well to commands and cues. A Dachshund is your best bet! Dachshunds make excellent watchdogs and loyal companions at home. Well-trained dogs of this breed are also good with kids. The Dachshund is one of the cheapest dog breeds in the Philippines. Chihuahuas prove that. While affectionate, they tend to be very protective of their owners. They may bark at strangers or anyone who comes near their owners. However, their aggression can be dealt with through early training. Note: The prices above are just estimates. Many dogs in shelters and rescue facilities are waiting for their forever homes. Abandoned aspins and other pups also deserve the same kind of love and attention that purebreds receive. Dog Adoption Tips But before you proceed with the adoption, there are a couple of things to keep in mind: 1. Was it a stray dog, or did its previous owners surrender it? Was it abused? Check Its Health This should be easy, as reputable shelters and rescue organizations maintain updated records of their dogs. They also have veterinary partners to ensure the pups are in good shape. Before you leave the shelter, ask if the dog has received obedience training. The cheapest dog is the one you adopt from a friend or neighbor. However, if you adopt from a dog shelter or rescue organization, it may impose some fees for the adoption process. Good thing the fee already covers the following costs of owning a dog:[4] Updated vaccination Treatment for ticks and fleas Spaying or neutering What is the Cost of Owning a Dog in the Philippines? It takes a village to raise a dog. As mentioned, having one under your care is akin to raising a child. You feed them, get them their shots, and shower them with love and attention. To help you with your budget, take note of the following costs. You may be tempted to feed your pup human food such as leftovers. But remember that your food contains ingredients that may be harmful to animals. Your food and treat expenses will depend on your pet's size. For instance, if you have a small dog such as a Pomeranian, a 20kg sack may last up to two months, especially if you properly portion the servings. You can get cheap ropes and squeaky toys online. But do your due diligence first and check if the toy has choking hazards or components potentially dangerous to your pup. You may get your pup a cozy bed. Prices will depend on the size of your dog. Avoid losing your pup by getting it high-quality collars and leashes. The prices of dog hygiene supplies like tear stain wipes, towels, blankets, and pet spray also vary depending on the brand. Dogs also need vitamins and supplements to stay healthy and to keep their coats looking good. You can also buy a Dog GPS Tracker for peace of mind, especially if you have a dog who loves to roam around the neighborhood. If you have a Chow Chow, a poodle, or a Siberian Husky, expect to pay a higher grooming fee. So prepare to add a few hundred pesos for a home grooming session. Other than that, the veterinarian may also recommend some examinations, such as Parvo and heartworm tests. Blood tests, skin scraping, deworming, fecalysis, and a urinalysis may also be required. It can also help reduce undesirable behaviors, like aggressiveness or marking, usually brought on by their heat cycles. Also, the insurance premium is affordable. Some insurance coverage for dogs may also include cash assistance and burial assistance. The 5-in-vaccine protects dogs from canine distemper virus, two types of adenovirus, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. If you want to save money on this vaccine, check with your barangay or local government to see if it offers free pet vaccination services. The cost of medical emergencies varies depending on the procedures and medicines needed. The kibble's shape, size, texture and formula are adapted to the Golden Retriever puppy. Appropriate food plays an important part in maintaining the quality of the skin and coat. Digestive Health Digestive health is essential during the puppy's growth period: the digestive system is not yet fully developed and cannot absorb nutrients in the same way as adult dogs. The Golden Retriever Puppy formula helps support digestive health and helps to maintain a balanced intestinal flora. Natural Defenses During the growth period, the puppy's natural defenses are not yet fully developed. Golden Retriever Puppy contains an exclusive complex of antioxidants vitamins E and C, lutein and taurine to help support the puppy's natural defenses. Ingredients: Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, wheat gluten, corn, brown rice, chicken fat, wheat, powdered cellulose, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, fish oil, sodium silico aluminate, vegetable oil, potassium chloride, psyllium seed husk, calcium carbonate, salt, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, taurine, hydrolyzed yeast, choline chloride, vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , inositol, niacin supplement, L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , D-calcium pantothenate, biotin, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , vitamin A acetate, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement], glucosamine hydrochloride, marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. Guaranteed Analysis:.
We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The source of protein matters when considering a high-quality diet. FATS The rest of the diet should be made up of fats, carbs, and vitamins. Labs need to have a correct protein -to-fat ratio, where protein takes the lead. Dogs tend to convert fat into glucose, so this is an important source of energy. Dogs rely mostly on protein and fats, but carbs are necessary. That said, a low carb diet is best for puppies. However, you still need the right percentage of carbs, since this gives your dog the sensation of being full. These include starches, fibers, and sugars. Try to opt for more complex carbs like starchy grain and veggies because these are easier to digest. Your Lab puppy will thrive when his or her diet includes: Vitamin B12 especially during puppy development , Vitamins A and E, C, Vitamin D, phosphorus, and calcium, Potassium Each of these required vitamins and minerals contributes to a healthy, happy, and energetic puppy. They also help offset issues like obesity. Vitamins A and E are important because they help your dog burn calories and promote eye and skin health. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, on the other hand, are part of a trifecta that works to strengthen teeth and bones. Potassium is a heart health-preserver. Labs with poor genetics are especially prone to orthopedic issues. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are common health problems for this breed. Glucosamine, an amino-sugar, together with chondroitin sulfate, helps replace and support naturally degrading cartilage during old age. Recently,"grain-free" foods are being championed as a preferred and even high-quality form of dog food. That's, not the whole story. An investigation launched by the FDA revealed that there are potential links between a form of canine heart disease and grain-free foods. So far, researchers have provided an update to this researchers have provided an update to this research staring that the issue may not just be grain-free diets. Grain-free may be part of other trends knows as "BEG"- boutique companies. Puppy diets don't' need to be complicated. They also don't need to include ingredients that humans might enjoy. Enjoyment doesn't necessarily bring any nutritional value to your puppy's development. Keep it simple, using the guidelines for fats, proteins, and carbs above and don't shy away from food with grains in them. It's not their presence that's a problem it's often the ratio. There shouldn't be more carbs or grains than protein. Nor does including only legumes, seeds, lentils, or chickpeas as the primary ingredients make the food more superior. It's perfectly healthy to include complex carb sources like starchy rice and other grains. Grain-free isn't and shouldn't be a qualifying factor for your choice in puppy food. Feeding Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is dried, pelleted food that stores well is easy to eat, and is pre-formulated with everything your puppy needs to thrive and grow in his early developmental months. There are plenty of popular brands that don't measure up to the Snowy Pines standard. That's why it's so vital for you to learn how to read puppy food labels. Puppies should stick with "puppy stage" food, while adults should stick to bags marked "adults. Instead, your dog should have regular bowel movements, allowing them to absorb all the nutrients available. You should also keep in mind that caloric intake is calculated a little differently for puppies. Kibble diets are measured by how many calories the proteins, fats, and carbs represent for each gram. For puppies, this should be 3. Sticking to these ratios will help ensure your kibble choice is a healthy one. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. You may have to supplement with dry food, especially if you're trying to keep the calories of carbs, proteins, and fats in the right per-gram ratio. Although I am not a veterinarian myself, I have been a lab owner for 11 years and been in the pet food industry for the last 6 years. However, if this is not the case for your pupper, no need to worry. Be sure not to feed normal cerelac or cow milk as that will result in loose motion as well as stunted growth. At this tender age, you need to feed your lab pup via feeding bottle like you would feed a human baby of age 2 months. Milk is the only food apart from purified water which your dog is gonna need till 1. After this age, till 3 months you have two options. You can either continue with milk or look at starter food options like Royal Canin Maxi starter , Drools starter, Farmina Puppy Starter, Canine Creek Starter , Orijen puppy and plenty of other brands which are available in the market. The kibble for starter food is small and most probably, your puppy will be able to chew it. Certain dry food can be extremely hard to chew, so depending on the toughness of the kibble you might have to break i. Puppies of age 1. You should be following this diet of starter food till 3 months age at least. Also, make sure you are vaccinating as well as deworming your pup at the right intervals. So, a proper nutritious diet is essential to achieve good growth. You can either go for Royal Canin Maxi Junior or Royal Canin Labrador Junior or puppy variants of other brands like drools, canine creek, Orijen Puppy and Junior Recommended , Acana large breed puppy, pedigree not recommended at this age. If you are giving a good diet like Royal Canin, farmina or even home-made food, growth should be good. For those who can extend their budget, you can go for something even more premium like Acana, Orijen, Arden Grange and the likes. No need to add additional supplements. If you are feeding home-made food like boiled chicken which itself is a very good food option, consider adding some fish oils like Beaphar Salmon Oil. However, a good diet is recommended to ensure a good life span above 12 years and muscle development. Homemade food can be a healthy option as well. Feeding guide amount to feed in grams depends on dog weight and varies from brand to brand. You will find the recommended portion for your brand based on the calories it carries on the packet you will buy. At other times, you can give chews or treats but whole meal should be fed not more than twice a day. Do not keep food available in front of the dog except during his eating time. However, you can keep water available in a bowl all the time. Sticking to schedule regularly is recommended. Wait, till now we have been speaking about commercial dry food. Yes, this happens to many dogs. While some dogs like pugs are voracious eaters, labs or goldens can be extremely choosy. They will eat whatever liquid you put in the feeding bottle at this age. However, once puppies mature and learn to eat themselves, they may not like dry food, rarely touch it. In these cases, the best option is to first add a home-made additive with the dry food. You may add many things dog like in small quantities of chicken stalk, chicken pieces boneless for puppies , curd, egg and others to the dry food. Changing or trying out another brand helps as well. I have seen many dogs who hate Drools but like Canine Creek although they are manufactured by same company. Every dog has a mind of his own. Most common diseases of Indian bred dogs like canine hyp dysplasia, ear infections, bent hind legs can happen to any dog. Take your dog to a registered veterinary practitioner in case such situations arise. Lack of appetite is also observed during this age at times. For not-so-severe cases, you may administer Himalaya Liv52 syrup or tabs or other appetite stimulants of various brands twice a day for days. In case, your dog has gastrointestinal disorders, referring to a prescription diet under the guidance of a veterinarian can be immensely helpful. This entry was posted in Pet Blog. Bookmark the permalink.
We understand the importance of getting the most out of the short but crucial window of time we have to shape your puppy. We spend hundreds of hours training and socializing our puppies, starting from the day they are born. The difference it will make over your puppy's life is remarkable! Not only do we do extensive socialization exercises, we also start potty training from 3 weeks old using our own unique, well-proven method. Please explore our site to learn more about our breeding program and what makes an Artisan puppy so special! Please also take a look at all of our Planned litters! Please click the picture above for more info. We are the best Miniature Labradoodle and Goldendoodle breeder in Utah for a reason: We raise every puppy in our home, surrounded by our children and the daily cacophony of family life. Our immersive method ensures that each puppy receives all the extra attention, stimulation, and socialization it needs to become the best companion you will ever have. Please explore our site for more information on our dogs, breeding program, and what you need to do to take one of our Artisan beauties home. What is an "original" Australian Labradoodle? The Australian Labradoodle is different from all other labradoodles. Dogs from this cross typically were bred to each other over future generations, whereby the Australian dogs are also know as "Multi-generational" Labradoodles. The resulting labradoodles subsequently have been bred to each other, continuing the multi-generational tradition. Even when the other types of Labradoodles are bred on for generations, the result is not an Australian Labradoodle, as the attributes of the infused breeds were not included in their ancestry. The Australian Labradoodle Club of America was founded exclusively to foster and protect the original Australian Labradoodles that have come directly from Tegan Park and Rutland Manor breeding stock, or their offspring. Our mission is to maintain and improve the quality and soundness of the Australian Labradoodles, and to carefully monitor the further development of the breed. All member breeders are carefully screened to help ensure the future of the Australian Labradoodle. Our member breeders must breed to the highest standards. We have Breeder Mentors to assist member breeders and to help new breeders get off to a good start. If someone in your family has allergies, a multi-generation Australian Labradoodle from Red Desert Doodles should be your first choice. Each of our breeding dogs is fully health tested before they are eligible for breeding. Our puppies all come with a two year health guarantee. Where in the world are our Red Desert Doodles Families? Follow Us On Instagram. 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 Salt Lake City Utah 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.
Daisy and Brock are a beautiful mother and son pair who love to snuggle together and cuddle. They are both sweet, happy, and friendly. They adore getting attention from anyone they meet during their walks and easily draw people in with their sunny personalities and soft silky coats. They have settled into an easy routine in their foster home and relish their walks every day and visits to the dog park. During their walks Brock clocks roughly twice the mileage of foster mom and Daisy with his side-to-side walking style. Neither is true! These pups love to live it up at the dog park where they show off their speed as Brock sprints and dives after his Kong frisbee, often grabbing it taco style, while Daisy relishes fetching an orange Chuck-It ball before eventually resting to chew on it. Brock is also a master at tug-of-war who has learned to drop it sometimes after repeated requests so it can be thrown again. Brock is extra special because he was born without a tail, which causes him to be incontinent. Inside the house he wears diapers and a belly band, and his incontinence is easily managed. When coming inside from a walk, Brock waits patiently for his diaper to be put on. Daisy and Brock took time to smell the roses and ponder life. While happy to be in a foster home, they would love to find their forever home. Please open your mind and your heart to considering adopting these two gorgeous pups. You will never regret your decision. TSBR is to provide for the welfare, shelter, and adoption of lost, abandoned, neglected, or homeless dogs and puppies, specifically; The American Kennel Club AKC 30 defined sporting group breeds - Retrievers, Setters, Pointers, Spaniels, Vizslas, Weimaraners, and Spinone Italianos; to promote the responsible care of companion animals, to actively promote spaying and neutering as the most humane means of animal control; to support heartworm education and treatment; and to provide training and education to the public related to topics such as animal welfare, responsible dog ownership, and breed information. It was a scary few weeks but we are both safe now and hoping to find someone to love us as much as our dad did. I'm a young Labrador and my favorite place in the whole world is my foster mom's lap. She said I'm too big to be a lap dog, but I think she's mistaken. I like to play with my canine foster brothers, chew on my toys, and have shown no prey drive. At just a year and a half old, this exuberant young fellow is bursting with energy and enthusiasm. With the playful heart of a Labrador and keen intelligence, Kristof is the perfect blend of fun and loy.With his glossy black coat and heart-melting eyes, this young pup is more than just good looks. He's an adventurer at heart, always eager to expl.Oakley was there first and had been raised from puppyhood and thought that her family had just brought her birds to play with as most sporting breeds have an affinit.I just need a home of my own to show off my skills! Round here they call me an Aussie Doodle x. Oh cookies would be awesome too! Just come meet me.We rescue abandoned, homeless and neglected Labradors from all over central California and beyond. We wish to end suffering and promote the welfare of labs and lab mixes through direct action and education. We provide each dog with a stable environment, love, companionship, food and veterinary care until a qualified, loving forever home is found. Labrador Retriever Rescue of Fresno believes that all companion animals should be treated with dignity, compassion and kindness. LRRF is supported entirely by our dog loving community. We fix broken bones and provide all needed medical care for the dogs who come into our rescue. We take in senior and special needs Labs. As a direct result of the number of dogs coming into rescue, our resources are severely strained. Through the generous hearts and hands of people like you, we can ensure that the animals who come into our care will never again be alone, hungry, sick, afraid or in pain. Please consider a one time or monthly donation to help us with caring for these dogs. Your donation is tax deductible and greatly appreciated. Donations can be made via our Paypal button below. Box , Clovis, CA
poodle and golden retriever mix puppy - Ask the breeder to show you the parents and puppies. Ask the breeder for references. Ask about his breeding program, including how many litters he has produced in the past, how long he has been breeding dogs, whether he is a member of any dog clubs or associations, etc. If possible, visit other Golden Retriever breeders in your area before choosing one. Take time to see if they are running their business according to best practices for responsible pet ownership e. They are also excellent for families with children because they are very loyal dogs who bond closely with their owners. These dogs can get along well with other pets, whether with another dog, cat, or bird! Beautiful puppies of golden retrievers in Nova Scotia Short History of the Golden Retriever Breed The Golden Retriever is a dog bred for centuries as a hunting companion and family pet. The dogs were initially bred for their intelligence, loyalty and eagerness to please their human companions. They are friendly, loyal, and eager to please people who train them well. The Golden Retriever was initially used as a retriever of the game from water, such as ducks or other birds in the fields while hunting with its owner but also used as a guard dog protecting property against thieves who would try to steal things from its owner property while they were away at work or school. Conclusion The Golden Retriever is a beautiful and versatile breed that can be trained to do many things. This breed may be perfect if you want a loving, loyal companion. Showing 1 - 38 of 38 resultsPage 1 - 38 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. I will update this ad on Saturday if there is any changes. Thank you!! Ready to go to a new home today!!! Delivery may be arranged Message to discuss Golden.See all Purebred Golden Retriever Puppies Bedford We have 10 purebred golden retriever puppies just arrived and looking for new homes. Born Aug 5th They will be dewormed, having their first shots, and with a veterinary health inspection and ready to.Puppies have been vet health check their first set of vaccinations and dewormed. We have one female available and three males.There are five girls and two boys. Mom is a Golden Retriever and dad a Standard Poodle. .Mom is such a good, gentle, well.They have been dewormed twice, their nails clipped and will have their health check and.Annapolis Valley We have a litter of golden retrievers available. They are 4 weeks old. They will be ready to go October 7th. These puppies have amazing parents with wonderful personalities. Both mom and dad are dark.Puppies have been litter trained which helps with the.Born August .Puppies will be dewormed, vet checked and first vaccines. She is 5 years old and an amazing dog with a beautiful coat and personality. He has had to move for work and unfortunately is unable to take the dog. Only one is left. Enfield Purebred golden retriever puppies born August 25th. Price includes two sets of shots, deowormed multiple times, vet booklet, health guarantee and some food to get.Puppies are 9 weeks old and ready to join there forever home. Puppies are, dewormed, vaccinated. Parents are on site for viewing. Puppies were born july 10 so just about 10 weeks old now. Discounted to and willing to help with shipping. You can look up.One male and one female left. Dogs are well socialized, raised in my home with my children and cats. Mom and dad are my family pets, Sadie is from PC and she is .Puppies will be ready for their forever homes July 21st .Puppies will come vet checked and dewormed. Please Contact 2 beautiful golden retriever pups Sydney 2 beautiful male golden pups looking for their fur ever home non breeding agreement mom and dad on site vet checked, health certificate, deworming been outside loving the grass ready to go Sept 20 it.They will have a written.These puppies are happy , healthy and love people. She is a very active dog and requires a fenced yard. She loves people and children and.She is two and a half months old. Very cute and loving female puppy. She has her shots and papers. They've received all their necessary vaccinations and have been dewormed. They're ready to bring joy to your home! Our puppies are raised in a top environment with 24 hour a day monitoring, love, care and training. We give our puppies an excellent foundation and raise.Golden retriever cross Berwick 9 Beautiful puppies for sale! Two black males, two golden females and five black females The Father is pure Golden retriever. They are booked for their first shots on.Making a trip to Moncton regularly. I offer two Breeds of puppies. Pure Bred Border Collies for anyone who has ever been around a.Mom is a red golden retriever and Dad is lighter in color. Great temperament and first set of needles provided. These pups have been socialized around children and other animals. Our wait list for these puppies is now open. They will be dewormed and have first needle. We own the mother and father. Puppies were bred for service dogs and emotional support animals. A few are available as loyal companions to.Please Contact Approving now, Summer Golden Retrievers raised by top breeder Fall River We are expecting a litter of Golden Retriever puppies this summer and are pre-approving 8 families. If the ad is up, there are still puppies available. We have 1 family left to choose. Raising calm, Mom and Dad both located on site as family pets are full of life and love. They both have great, The dad is a pure bread English cream golden retriever, he is white, mom is white with a touch of gold. Their mother is an English Cream Golden Retriever about 50lbs , and their father is a small Standard Poodle about 45lbs. Westville Pure bred golden retriever puppies Parents from different bloodlines 2 males and 1 female left Flea treated and dewormed Come with vet certificate, some puppy chow, and a blanket with mothers scent.Mom and dad are healthy, friendly dogs. They have had previous litter and all puppies were.Truro We have 3 boys and 2 girls remaining, out of 10, from this non-registered litter of pure Golden Retriever puppies. Born July 30, they will be available to go to their "fur"ever homes, after September.Browse other categories in Pets in Nova Scotia.
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poodle and golden retriever mix puppy - However, husky lab mixes likely existed naturally before this time. The Chukchi people bred this breed to serve as sled dogs and companions. This dog breed is best known for its wolf-like appearance, distinctive markings, and thick, double coat. Huskies are outgoing and energetic. These dogs like to interact and spend time with their owners. Although intelligent, this breed has an independent streak and tends to be stubborn. This personality makes training the dogs challenging for novice owners. Parent Breed: Labrador Retriever The Labrador retriever is a medium-sized retriever gun dog and a member of the sporting group. The breed is originally from Newfoundland, where the dog helped fishermen haul nets and catch fish. Labradors were developed and perfected as a breed in the United Kingdom. Labs have double water-resistant coats and come in three colors — yellow, chocolate, or black. Eager to please, friendly, and affectionate, they make excellent family pets and service dogs. The breed typically serves as search and rescue dogs and bomb detection dogs, among other working roles. Lifespan The husky lab is a generally healthy mixed breed dog with an average lifespan of 11 to 13 years. Although this crossbreed may inherit health issues from either parent breed, many husky lab mixes reach old age without any health problems. Husky Lab Mix Appearance A husky lab mix can take on the appearance of a Labrador retriever, a Siberian husky, or inherit traits from both parent breeds. The dog has an athletic build. Depending on which parent breed it takes after, the dog may have erect or floppy ears, and brown, blue, or different-colored eyes. Height and Weight Husky lab mixes are considered medium-sized dogs with a height of 20 to 25 inches at the withers and a weight of 40 to 60 pounds. Some Labrador huskies weigh more, depending on the size and weight of the Labrador retriever parent. Colors Husky lab mixes are typically white, grey, black, yellow, brown, red, or a mix of colors. Coat Husky lab mixes have a thick double coat. Regardless of the length, the coat is soft and silky. Like its husky parent, this mix prefers cooler temperatures over hot and humid conditions. These dogs are heavy shedders. The soft double coat sheds moderately throughout the year and sheds heavily during the spring and fall. Personality and Temperament The husky lab is loyal, affectionate, craves human companionship, and enjoys being around its family. This intelligent, playful, and energetic dog is always in the mood to play and enjoys being physically and mentally challenged. Barking Husky labs are typically vocal dogs that take after their husky parents by howling to communicate. Use positive reinforcement training to teach a husky lab not to bark or howl as much. Husky Lab Mix Care Husky labs are high-maintenance, requiring a lot of exercise, mental stimulation, and grooming. Food Needs The ideal diet for the husky lab includes kibble formulated for a medium-sized breed with high energy. Choose dog foods that contain high protein levels, moderate fat, easily digestible carbs, and essential vitamins and minerals. Feed the adult husky lab two to three small meals per day, and offer three to four daily meals to puppies. Grooming Needs Brush the husky lab mix three to five times per week during the spring and fall shedding seasons, and twice per week during the off-season. Brushing will remove loose hair, prevent mats from forming, and keep the coat clean. Bathe this breed once every two or three months, or more often if the dog gets dirty or develops a strong smell. Clean the ears as necessary using an ear cleaning solution for dogs. Exercise Needs The highly energetic husky lab needs at least 60 minutes of intense activity every day to stay happy and in good shape. Any type of cardiovascular activity, such as running, swimming, or hiking, will physically challenge this mix and help it release pent-up energy. Besides regular exercise, aim for two to three long walks per day with your dog, plus two minute play sessions to prevent the dog from getting bored. An excited dog can accidentally knock over a small child. Mental Needs Husky lab mixes should be given a lot of mental stimulation, or they quickly become bored and destructive. Owners can also provide stimulation by teaching the dog new commands and tricks. Spend at least 30 minutes per day playing fetch, hide and seek, or tug-of-war with this breed. Common Health Concerns Husky lab mixes are generally healthy dogs, but they are predisposed to the same health issues that affect Labrador retrievers and Siberian huskies. The husky lab can inherit eye conditions that lead to blindness, including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and corneal dystrophy. Husky labs are also prone to hip dysplasia, arthritis, allergies, bloat, and cancer. Take the lab husky mix to the vet for a complete check-up as soon as you bring it home from the breeder or shelter. Training Husky lab mixes are highly trainable dogs, but they can be stubborn. Use reward-based training instead of using punishment and domination to teach the dog commands. This breed loves to please its owners and finds positive reinforcement training motivating. Although friendly by nature, these dogs benefit from early socialization, especially with children. Expose the dog to different smells, sounds, situations, places, and people, including kids, from puppyhood to help the dog grow into an amicable pet. Husky Lab Mix Price Husky lab mixes are affordable, given that most designer dog breeds are more expensive than their purebred parents. Buying a husky lab puppy costs more than adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organization. Buying a husky lab from a reputable breeder is more expensive than adopting a dog from a shelter or a rescue group. Is a Huskador Right for You? The husky lab mix makes an excellent pet for outdoorsy families, as the dog gets along well with kids and enjoys being a part of a busy household. Husky lab mixes are suitable for active people who want a dog to accompany them on adventures. This mix is also a good fit for dynamic families with children who can interact and play with the dog. Spacious homes near the woods, parks, or with fenced yards offer ideal living conditions for husky labs. These social dogs crave human companionship and quickly become bored and destructive when left home alone. Check out these other hybrid dog breeds: Siberian Husky Mixes. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. So, what do you get when you mix them together? An intelligent, social, and playful pooch that can accompany you on all of your adventures. If you are thinking of adopting a Husky Lab Mix into your family, here is everything you need to know. Husky Lab Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 40 to 60 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, straight, color varies Shedding — yes Temperament — Intelligent, sociable, loyal, playful, and eager to please Trainable — Very trainable but can act up when bored Activity — Highly active needs at least one hour of exercise and intermittent daily activity Best For — Families and people with lots of time to spend with them and active lifestyles What is a Husky Lab Mix? They are different from a purebred Labrador Husky, which is a purebred dog native to coastal Labrador. It has the same wolf look as a Husky and, just like a wolf, howls rather than barks. Huskador Appearance Mixed-breed dogs are an unpredictable combination of the two parent breeds, so it is impossible to know exactly what they will look like before they are born. However, one Husky trait that is commonly inherited by Huskadors is heterochromia, which is two different-colored eyes. This is one of the traits that gives both Huskies and Huskadors their unique look. Although their final look is always a lottery, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Husky Lab Mixes. Size As both Huskies and Labradors are medium-sized dogs, their joint offspring will be about the same size. Huskies are the smaller of the two breeds, and the females are much smaller than the males. Male Huskies are between 21 and .Labradors are larger at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. This means for safe breeding, the Labrador will pretty much always be the mother of the Siberian Retriever, as the mother needs to be the larger of the two dogs in order to avoid problems birthing the pups. So expect you Husky Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 40 to 60 pounds. You can get a better idea of just how big the dog will be by looking at the size of the parents. Color Labskies come in a wide range of different colors including black, brown, yellow, white, grey, and copper. They can be one solid color, like Labradors, or they can be an unexpected mix, taking after their Husky parent. It is not uncommon to see white Huskadors with the golden ears of a Labrador, or white pups with the coloring over the ears and nose in black or brown. But any pattern or mix is possible. Coat Siberian Retrievers will usually have the short coat of a Labrador, as this seems to be a dominant gene that shows up in their mixed children. But they are also likely to have the straight hair that we are accustomed to seeing on Huskies. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. Huskies have a particularly thick undercoat that helps keep them warm in icy temperatures, so a Huskador might also find themselves with one. But whether they inherit this winter warmer or not, Siberian Retrievers shed—a lot—especially in fall and spring when they change their coats. Regular brushing is essential for maintenance, as is a vacuum cleaner that is up to the task! Husky Labrador Mix Character The personality you get when you mix a Husky and a Labrador is unpredictable, but both are friendly dogs that love people, so you can be sure you will have a sociable, human-loving pup. Labrador Retrievers were initially hunting dogs bred to retrieve wild game. This means they have been bred to enjoy being around humans and to be pleasers, completing tasks in return for rewards. They are friendly, good with strangers, and easy to train, which means their behavior is controllable. Huskies are working dogs bred to pull sleds and hunt in cold climates. They can also be very vocal and bark a lot. These dogs are escape artists, which means you need to take extra care when building their homes and enclosures. A Husky Lab Mix can inherit any and all of these traits in different measures, but you can be sure the dog will be intelligent and trainable. Both breeds are also playful, friendly, and love people. They make great pets for family homes. Activity Levels Both Labradors and Huskies have a lot of energy, so you can be sure their offspring are also going to be high energy pups. They will need a minimum of one hour of exercise every day. These dogs will love and benefit from a quick game of fetch every few hours, which appeals to their retriever instinct. This regular distraction will also help keep them occupied enough that they are less likely to indulge in unwanted behavior such as chewing your shoes, digging holes, and finding their way under the fence. Yes, sometimes these dogs are just too intelligent for their own good! These dogs are ideal for active owners who want a companion on their adventures. And Husky Labs Mixes can go just about anywhere with you. They are personable enough to get on well in a crowd, they will have no problems with those long jokes, and they even love the water! These dogs tend to be great swimmers. Exercise As we have already said, Siberian Retrievers are very high energy dogs, so they need a lot of exercise. This means a minimum of one hour per day. They need exercise in regular bursts. As we have already suggested, take them out in the yard for a quick game of fetch a couple of times a day and you will have a much happier pooch. It will also help maintain their weight, which is important because carrying extra pounds can exacerbate many of the health problems common in these dogs. Intellectual Stimulation The pups of Huskies and Labradors are highly intelligent, which means they need a lot of intellectual stimulation. If not, they will get into trouble. Labradors tend to be chewers and will make short work of a lot of things in your home. Huskies are diggers and also seem to manage to get in or out of anything. So you may come home to find they are not where you left them. Puzzle toys can help keep your dog stimulated, but be aware that Huskadors will make short work of them. They are heavy chewers with powerful jaws, so you will be replacing that toy regularly. Another option is to look for more durable indestructible dog toys. The KONG Extreme is one of our favorite toys and can be mentally stimulating as well as highly durable. Companionship Huskadors need a lot of love and attention. They are not the type of dog you can leave alone at home for the whole day while you are at work. They will not only get into trouble, but they can develop separation anxiety and depression. This is not the type of dog for people whose houses are empty for most of the day. Grooming Both parent dogs of Siberian Retrievers shed a lot, so you can expect their kids to do the same. For this reason, they need to be brushed at least twice a week, and during their shedding seasons in fall and spring they will need brushing every day. This should not be seen as a chore, but rather as some nice bonding time for the two of you. What may seem like more of a chore is cleaning up all the hair they shed around your home. Commit to the fact that very regular vacuuming is now part of your regime, and get a specialist pet vacuum cleaner that has the power and the attachments needed to pick up all that hair. This means they do not need to be bathed too often. When you do bathe them, be sure to wash out all the shampoo and conditioner. This can easily be held onto by their hair, and if left behind can irritate their skin. But brushing is only the beginning of the grooming regime these pups need, not all of which will be such a pleasant bonding experience. They need their teeth brushed at least three times a week. Thankfully, this can be partially achieved with dental chew toys. They should also have their ears cleaned regularly, especially if they have the floppy ears of a retriever. Bacteria, yeast, and parasites live in the ear canal. Finally, make sure to trim their nails on a regular basis, at least monthly. This is often a job best left to the experts, as it is easy to cut too deep and hurt your pooch, which will only make them less cooperative next time as they will develop a fear of the clippers pretty quickly. If you are confident enough to do it at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. We prefer to use a nail grinder called a Dremmel to trim our dogs nails. However, the Dremmel is something you should slowly introduce to your dog so he is not fearful of the sound and vibration. Diet Huskadors need a diet that is high in healthy proteins. Both Labradors and Huskies are natural carnivores, so they feel better when they have a diet high in meat and without excessive amounts of carbohydrates. Processed carbohydrates should be avoided for all dogs, but especially these. Husky Lab Mixes have a lot of energy, and that protein will help them get through their day. They should also have quite a bit of fat in their diet but not too much. You need to be careful about maintaining the weight of these dogs, as they can have heart and joint issues, and excess weight will just exacerbate these health problems. Husky Lab Mixes can have sensitive stomachs, which means that artificial coloring, rendered fats, and processed grains should all be avoided. Look to vary their diet by introducing novel proteins such as rabbit and venison. Puppies should eat special puppy food until about the age of one. Until they are six months old, feed them four times a day, and after that drop to twice a day. They will probably need to move onto special foods for senior dogs at about the age of 7, which is when they enter the second half of their lives. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day. But while this is a good guide, listen to your vet and watch their weight to find their unique dietary balance. Check out our list of best dog foods for Huskies and best dog foods for Labs for some of our recommendations. Known Health Problems Dogs are just as unique as humans when it comes to the health problems they can develop, but some breeds are more prone to certain conditions than others. Husky Lab Mixes are susceptible to the conditions that are common among both Huskies and Labradors: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — A condition that arises when the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally, which can cause extreme pain and arthritis later in life Eye Conditions — Various eye conditions including cataracts, corneal dystrophy, and progressive retinal atrophy, all of which can all result in blindness Heart Conditions — Usually a decrease in the effectiveness of the heart pumping blood throughout the body, which can lead to complications such as a build-up of fluid in the chest and abdomen Life Expectancy Husky Labrador Mix dogs have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. Check out our list of best dog foods for your senior dog for our recommendation of dog foods for older dogs. How To Train Your Husky Lab Mix Huskadors inherit a lot of intelligence on both sides, so they are smart dogs that are highly trainable, but they can be stubborn. For this reason, domination and punishment should never be used. It can cause these stubborn pups to dig in their heels and refuse to cooperate. The best way to train Husky Labrador Mixes is through positive reinforcement and reward. They are people-pleasers so they find this highly motivational. While these pooches are naturally sociable, it is a good idea to socialize them from a young age, especially with children. This helps them learn the care they need to exercise when dealing with smaller humans. They will also probably need to be trained to control their likely Husky-inherited tendency to bark. They will meet you halfway, but you need to fulfill your side of the bargain. Husky and Labrador mixes make great pets for families, as they will quickly become members of the family and get on well with kids. A family also often means lots of people in and out of the home to spend time with them. But they are perfect for anyone with a highly active lifestyle looking for a dog that can accompany them on all of their adventures. They will have no problems taking on challenging trails, being out and about all day, and even going in the water. So this is the ideal dog for someone who has the time and energy to give them a lot of love and attention. They will thank you with the same in return. This means you can meet the parents, which can help give you an idea of what kind of character the puppy will have. The breeder will also be able to share medical records with you, which can give you advance warning about the types of medical conditions your new pooch is prone to developing. If you are adopting a more mature Huskador, spend some time with them to see what they are like. As Husky Lab Mixes are still a relatively new breed, they are also relatively expensive. History of the Breeds Siberian Husky More closely related to wolves than many modern dog breeds, Huskies have long been sled dogs used in colder regions. They are bred for strength, swiftness, and to withstand cold temperatures. Their unique wolf-like look and friendly nature mean they are also extremely popular as pets. Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers were brought from Newfoundland to England in the 19th century and then trained and bred as hunting dogs. They are highly intelligent and love being around people, working, and pleasing their humans. This is why they are often used as assistance dogs, as they are both hard workers and incredibly loving and loyal. Yes, Husky Lab Mixes are excellent dogs, as they are intelligent, highly trainable, friendly, and loyal, plus they are great with children and strangers. If they are under-stimulated, they can have a tendency to act out, chewing and digging. Huskadors generally grow to between 20 and 25 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 60 pounds. If you would like a dog on the smaller side, choose a female, as they tend to be smaller than their male counterparts. If your Husky Lab Mix is playful and energetic, this is a sign that they are happy. When they start to become lethargic, this is often a sign that there is something wrong. The Verdict When you mix a Siberian Husky and a Labrador Retriever you get a very attractive dog that is also loveable, loyal, and a joy to have around. They are the ideal pet for families and anyone looking for a companion for their active lifestyle. These dogs do need a lot of love and attention and can suffer from separation anxiety. But if you invest in your Huskador, it is impossible to put a price on the unconditional love and companionship they will give you in return. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. A Husky Lab Mix has high energy levels, and she needs to be exercised properly to stay fit. She also enjoys swimming, running in the park, and playing Frisbee, or any other interactive game. These dogs are suitable for active families, where running, jogging, camping trips, or hiking are common activities. I think having a yard where your dog can run freely is essential when dealing with this breed. Make sure you have a strong fence before bringing your future dog home, to prevent her from escaping. A Lab Husky Mix also loves to dig holes, so take all precautions if you have plants. It can be white, black, brown, golden, or any combination of these colors. Some have blue eyes, while others have eyes of different colors. The most common are eye and skin diseases, degenerative myelopathy , arthritis, hip dysplasia, and cancer. Besides potty training , obedience lessons can also help you bond easier with your dog while giving you the chance to remain in charge. This dog is very intelligent and in most cases you can train her yourself, especially if you start at an early age. Always use positive reinforcement and never punish your dog for not following your commands. Outside the shedding season, your dog needs to be brushed twice a week, to keep her coat beautiful and to reduce the amount of lost hair. Keeping your dog alone for too long can cause separation anxiety, sometimes also found in Huskies, but more common when it comes to Labradors. Get her some resistant dog toys to chew, and free access to the yard where she can play, run, and move freely. Make sure she always has a place to go in case of bad weather. If you work all day, ask a friend or a pet walker to take her to the park and make sure you also spend enough time with her when you get home. Conclusion As you can see, a Labrador Husky Mix is a great dog. Do you think you can handle such a dog? Or do you already have one? Let us know what you think about the Husky Lab Mix in a comment below. About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. Very easy to train. I disagree with many of the characteristics listed. Ours is lazy and does not like a lot of activity. The only issue we have is his obsession with children. He loves kids so much that if he can see them but cannot get to them he becomes so laserly focused and cry a very high pitch until they are out of sight. He wants to smell them and lick them on the face and generally hang out with them. Another dog approached and he chased him or her off in an aggressive manner. I had never seen him aggressive like that before. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Labsky Highlights The Labsky is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Labrador Retriever or Siberian Husky parents. Labskies were first bred intentionally in the s. The Labsky is a medium- to large-sized dog with high energy. Labskies tend to love people and human contact. They are usually very friendly. The Labsky has a double coat that requires daily brushing. Their fur can come in white, black, yellow, brown, red and grey, and many times the coat will be a mix of colors. Labskies can have a high prey drive and might be best suited to homes with pets of the same size. The mixed breed dates back to the s, although their original country of origin has not been established. The Siberian Husky has existed for over years, and originated in the cold climes of Alaska and Canada. The Labrador Retriever has a history as a gun dog and was first developed in Newfoundland in the 19th century. These days, the Labrador Retriever has become recognized as one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States and frequently ranks as the most popular dog breed of all, according to the American Kennel Club. Even though the Labsky looks like a fancy, high-end designer dog, many of them end up in shelters so consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you! Most weigh in at 40 to 60 pounds and range in height from inches. Labsky Personality Many Labsky lovers like to describe their dogs as very loyal and exceptionally active. With high energy levels, the Labsky thrives on long walks and will always be interested in physical play sessions. If you have access to lots of outdoor space near to your home, the Labsky will prosper and approach life with much vigor. At home, Labskies are seen as loving and loyal dogs who seek out company and enjoy being around people. A Labsky enjoys mental stimulation, and interactive toys can help keep the dog interested and alert. These dogs very much enjoy being around family and prosper in an environment with a lot of human contact. Labsky Health Labskies are generally farily healthy. The Labsky breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Siberian Husky and Labrador Retriever also face. It is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Some of the more common health problems Labskies suffer from include: Eye conditions. Your Lab Husky should also visit the vet regularly. You can then wean if off that brand slowly and introduce new food while steadily increasing the ratio. To ensure your Lab Husky mix cub gets all they need to grow up big and strong, try one of the best puppy food brands or some of the best dry dog food for small dogs. A Husky crossed with Lab pup should be fed three to four times daily. Once it hits six months, feeding can be dropped to just two times a day. Keep feeding your dog with puppy dog food until it turns a year old. This is because this feed is designed to have more protein, something that a growing puppy needs. Once your pet turns a year old, it should then be fed about 2. That is when you can switch to the best dry dog food that undoubtedly all adult doggos enjoy. It contains ocean fish meal, salmon, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and peas. Give this to your dog if you want it to have a shinier coat. Nutro Max Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food: One of the best makers of dog food today, Nutro Max uses fewer ingredients in its feed to reduce the number of digestive issues a dog might develop. It uses real chicken as its main source of protein. Once your pooch reaches a certain age, their bones and overall health become more frail, and they need food that can give them all the necessary nutrients. We have ample suggestions of the best senior dry dog food brands that you could offer your aged pooch. They will also benefit from additional vitamins and minerals, so we suggest including the Nutra Thrive dog food supplement in their diet as well. Your Lab Husky mix will need regular exercise to stay fit and burn off excess energy. This dog needs a long walk twice a day. It also enjoys running around the park and playing Frisbee. This crossbreed has a natural affinity to water and loves to swim. Its webbed paws make it a natural in this activity. Any interactive game will suit this dog perfectly. Families with an active lifestyle and those who love the outdoors will be good matches for the Husky Lab mix. You can even take it hiking or camping. Labs have a particular gene that has been linked to weight increase. This hybrid dog will thrive in homes with a yard where it can run freely. It also loves digging holes so you might have to rearrange your garden. Keep your dog engaged and entertain with these toys — KONG Extreme: Kong toys never fail, and this extreme version of a beloved toy will keep your Lab Husky mix happy for hours. Fill it up with treats, stand back and watch your dog chew on it for hours. Nina Ottoson Dog Tornado: This interactive toy is a bit pricey but well worth the expense. Trixie Dog Activity Chess: This toy will reward your dog with snacks in exchange for its smarts. Hide treats within the movable pieces to keep your pet busy. Your dog will have a great time knocking the ball around or playing fetch with it. It also squeaks, so the more auditory-inclined canines will be interested. Mammoth Flossy Chews: Your Husky Lab hybrid will love tugging and playing this cotton blend, three-knot toy. It comes in different sizes, including an extra large one for massive and strong dogs. Husky Lab Mix Training Obedience training is a must with a Husky Lab mix, and it should start as soon as you bring your dog home. This training will help you develop a positive relationship with your pet while also enabling you to remain in control. A Husky Lab is a very intelligent canine, and a responsible and patient owner can train their Huskadors themselves. This will go easier if the lessons are done at an early age. Fortunately, this stubborn streak can be tempered with heaps of positive reinforcement and repetition. Socialization training is also crucial for this dog. Make sure you start socializing your puppy as soon as you bring it home. Invite your friends over or take your pet to different places. The idea is to let it interact with various people and animals. To make training easier, consider the following tips: Positive reinforcement is best. This is a better strategy with this breed. Do not punish your dog for not obeying your commands or forgetting its training. Set up regular playdates. Playing with others do is a way to keep them entertained, socialized, and mentally engaged. Invest in puzzle toys. Make sure you have lots of engaging toys and puzzles on hand. Labrador Husky Mix and Families A Lab Husky mix is a great family dog, as long as everyone is on-board with the proper way of handling and training it. Consistency is key to ensure this dog is trained and socialized properly. This dog suits all types of owners, from single households to families with small children. But you have to make sure you have the time and energy for this dog. You should ask yourself if you have the patience and dedication needed to provide it with the best possible life before getting one. This magnificent dog is not the pet for busy employees or those who are away from home for long hours. The Husky Lab mix is a unique dog and a fantastic companion. It needs someone who will love it back; someone who will dedicate the time and effort to ensure its physical and mental requirements are met. Temperament The Labrador Husky is an unknown and often misunderstood breed. It is not a mix between a Labrador and a Husky, but a purebred dog native of coastal Labrador. It is similar in a lot of ways to the wolf. It does not bark, but can howl like a wolf. The objective in training this dog is to achieve pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in its pack. When we humans live with dogs , we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. Because a dog communicates his displeasure with growling and eventually biting, all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. The humans must be the ones making the decisions, not the dogs. That is the only way your relationship with your dog can be a complete success. Height, Weight Weight: 60 - pounds 27 - 45 kg Health Problems -- Living Conditions The Labrador Husky are not usually recommended for apartments, however they can live in apartments if well trained and properly exercised. Exercise This breed needs to be taken on a daily long walk or jog. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. During that time they need to be brushed and combed daily. Origin The Labrador Husky is native to coastal Labrador. The dogs were used as sled dogs to carry heavy loads. Inuits first lived in Alaska - AD. Over the centuries, the Labrador's ancestor had become cut off geographically from the other northern breeds. To maintain the desired qualities of strength, vigor, stamina and intelligence inherent in their dogs, the descendants of the Thule Inuit had allowed the Labrador to breed with the native wolf populations. This practice continued until the invention of the snowmobile, when dogs were no longer needed to pull heavy loads. Finding a healthy Husky Lab mix puppy. Labs are working dogs , born with a job to do. As you might guess, that job typically involves the second word in their breed name — retrieving! These dogs were bred to work closely with hunters to flush out and collect downed prey. Labs are loyal human-focussed dogs. They make for fun-loving, affectionate, and playful pets. Huskies are working dogs too. Historically, they helped out with hunting and gathering food, firewood, supplies, and other necessities. These dogs were bred specifically to cohabitate and collaborate with people. Overall, they make for wonderful, loyal pets and guard dogs. But as he grows up, each day will bring new surprises. Only time will tell which breed-specific traits he has inherited from his Labrador Retriever and Siberian Husky parents, respectively. Your Husky Lab mix full grown may weigh anywhere from 40 to 60 pounds. He is likely to be athletic and powerful. Both parents grow up to about 24 inches in height, so you can expect a medium to large dog. He may have facial and body features that lean more towards the Lab or the Husky. He could have brown eyes, blue eyes, or even one of each! Coats and Colors Labs are well known for their different coats, and mixing a Lab of a certain color with a Husky could lead to a Huskador that has a dark coat. Shedding and Grooming The Labsky dog tends to shed. A lot. The reason for this is simple: the Siberian Husky grows a double-thick coat as protection against the freezing Siberian climate. This means that even a Lab Husky mix who inherits more Lab traits will still shed more than your average Labrador, although likely less than your average Husky. Now, if your dog inherits more Husky traits, you can look forward to a jaw-dropping level of shedding at least twice a year as your pup sheds his thick undercoat and prepares to regrow it. But regardless of which end of the shedding spectrum your pooch tends towards, the best way to control Lab Husky mix shedding is to brush your dog regularly. You can use a tool called an undercoat rake to make the shedding process much more comfortable for your dog and more manageable for you. Take time once or twice per week to groom your dog. This will give you some control over when and where the hairs fall out. Also, it gives you some regular enjoyable bonding time with your pup. Husky Lab Mix Temperament Lab Husky mix temperament is where you will find the most uncertainty, since any puppy can tend more towards the temperament of one parent breed or the other. Your puppy may exhibit a calmer Labrador temperament or a more high-strung Husky temperament. While they are likely to be smart, Husky Lab mix puppies could take after the Lab parent and be a quick, eager learner during training. Or they could be more stubborn and even inconsistent, like the Husky parent. A Huskador puppy could also have a more reserved personality, like a Husky. Alternatively, you could end up with a naturally exuberant Lab-leaning pup that reminds you of the canine star of Marley and Me. Labs tend to bark only as needed. Huskies, on the other hand, tend to bark at anything and everything. Your pup could fall anywhere in between the two. Digging is another issue , as Huskies are big on digging. Labs are known for chewing on anything they can find, which could also be an issue for your Siberian Retriever. He will likely be very loyal and somewhat protective, however. Socialization is an important part of raising a well-behaved member of any breed or mix. From the day you bring him or her home, have plenty of visitors to the home. Take your Huskador to a number of different locations to familiarize him with other environments. Try to get your pup to meet as many different people, vehicles and animals as possible. Socialization is important to the well-being and good behavior of every breed, even ultra-friendly Labs. Huskies, as mentioned, tend to be a bit more reserved, so socialization is vital for this mix. Training and Behavioral Traits For decades, dog training was all about establishing the pack leader. Leading trainers taught that there were only two choices: either your dog was the alpha, or you were the alpha. However, we know differently now. For a dog, there is no such thing as alpha, or dominance, or pack leader, or even anything similar to any of these concepts. As long as you provide your dog with his daily required resources, your interspecies family life is likely to go quite smoothly overall. In fact, the purebred Siberian Husky breed is known to exhibit some of these traits far more frequently than purebred Labrador Retrievers. This can make training more challenging and time-consuming if your Labsky puppy tends more towards the Husky side of his parentage. But whether such behavioral traits show up in your puppy or not, these behaviors are never about winning dominance over you or becoming the pack leader. These traits are either inbuilt breed-specific characteristics, or fear-based responses to perceived scarcity of needed resources. Ultimately, your puppy is dependent on you for every need that he has. Understanding this can eliminate your concern over alpha-type struggles. Huskador Exercise The Husky Lab mix comes from two active, energetic, working dog breed parents. Boredom can be a real problem for these dogs, as they are literally bred to stay active all day, every day. Often, they perform very physically demanding jobs! So you can pretty much count on the need to keep your Siberian Husky Lab mix dog active and busy. Otherwise, she may develop her own itinerary of fun activities to pursue. Lab Husky mix dogs also have webbed paws and a natural love of water. Swimming is a great activity for them. So is any game of fetch that involves retrieving a bobbing toy from the water. They also love to run and will eagerly enjoy long runs off-leash if your situation permits. Lab mixes are at risk of hip dysplasia, so be careful with younger dogs and keep their exercise at appropriate levels. Health and Care A Lab and Husky mix puppy may inherit known health issues from either the Labrador or the Husky gene pool. Therefore, it is critical to conduct health testing when selecting a designer dog puppy. This is the only way to know if breed-specific congenital health issues may be present. Each breed may have health issues that are inherited or acquired along the way. Labrador Retrievers are prone to a few health issues that can be protected against in future generations through health testing. The most prevalent are hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as progressive retinal atrophy. Siberian Husky dogs are known to be prone to a few health problems including cataracts, glaucoma, arthritis and heart problems. Predicting Life Expectancy Generally speaking, the Labrador Retriever has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. The Siberian Husky, in turn, has an average lifespan of 11 to 13 years. These statistics would indicate a Lab and Husky mix might live anywhere from 10 to 13 years, which is generally considered an accurate lifespan range for these designer dogs. We recommend reaching out to these rescue societies to ask about any Huskador dogs in need of adopting. Here are a few to get you started.