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You have done your research, and are ready to take the leap. It is no surprise that many people are adding Bernedoodles to their families. This large breed puppy has a friendly temperament and a fierce loyalty. We personally got a Bernedoodle last year, and she just turned one. I remember the day we brought her home trying to figure out how much to feed a Bernedoodle puppy. As a new puppy parent, the last thing you want to do is over or under feed your new pet, so hopefully this post serves as helpful for you with your new Bernedoodle puppy. This post may contain affiliate links All about Bernedoodles Bernedoodles are adaptable, making them a wonderful choice for novice or veteran owners. They are smart and protective dogs. This makes them great for young ages. If you are just doing your beginning research, the Bernedoodle breed is a combination of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. They inherit their intelligence from the Poodle parent. It is obvious that the goofy traits are those of the Bernese Mountain Dog parent. These parent breeds create a perfect family dog. Their size is determined by the Poodle parent. They are broken down into size categories. Bernedoodles can be toy, mini or standard. One thing that is pretty surprising is that the different sizes do not typically affect their food choices during puppyhood. Bernedoodle puppies are known to love younger children. They are playful and gentle as a lifelong companion. Bernedoodles are smart but are also silly. This trait makes them a good choice for all ages. As a mom of four kids, this was very important to me. If you want to learn more about owning Bernedoodle — I have a whole blog post here with all the details on what is like to truly own a Bernedoodle puppy. How much to Feed a Bernedoodle Puppy As you prepare to become a bernedoodle parent, their growth and development are important to you. You are undoubtedly concerned about health issues or health problems that may arise. Did you know that there is a big difference between puppy food and adult dog food? It may be hard to know where to start, but I will break it down for you! In their full size, they are big dogs. At their full height, they are also very tall. Their looks can be deceiving. Even though they are larger dogs, they may not need more food than a typical dog. You want to be prepared with this knowledge before you decide if this dog is right for you. How do you ensure a healthy lifestyle for your pup? It is important to learn how much food is necessary in their different life stages. The Reasoning Behind the Puppy Food New dog owners have several choices to make when it comes to food. It can be overwhelming, but there are a few simple things to keep in mind for a balanced diet. Your main goal is a healthy, happy dog! Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. Puppy food is specifically designed for growing pups. As they grow, they are burning more calories. This means that they need more calories per pound of body weight to sustain their developing bodies. Bernedoodle puppies need more fatty acids and high protein diets. These puppies complete a majority of their growth within two or three years. In these first few years, they will need higher amounts of protein calories. Veterinarians will say that it is, however, not toxic for your puppy to eat adult dog food. They may suggest that you do your best to stick to these separate kinds of dog food for optimal health. This type of food is typically referred to as adult maintenance for day-to-day living. It should be clearly labeled on the packages. Once they have reached their adult weight, they can maintain the health benefits from their simpler diet. The transition from puppy food to adult dog food should be seamless. Bernedoodle dogs are laid back and not picky! Most of the time, they will eat what is put in front of them. Now that we have covered the difference between the types of dog food, we will get right to specific amounts for Bernedoodle puppies. Our Penny had a very sensitive stomach as a puppy, and we have stuck with this puppy food and been very happy with the choice. She seems to be happy and thriving on it. Specific amounts of Food for Bernedoodle Puppies Young puppies that are two to six months of age typically eat three different times a day. The daily amount of puppy food depends on weeks of age and how much they weigh. It will also depend on how much exercise they receive. I will break that down specifically. But, it is important to keep in mind that their food intake will increase as they grow. At around six months of age, Bernedoodle puppies can eat twice a day. This schedule may continue for adult Bernedoodles. They are growing very quickly. Setting your puppy up with proper nutrients will benefit growth, brain health and a long lifespan. It is helpful to stick to designated eating times for your puppy. Do not forget that It is a good choice to check the directions of the healthy dog food you purchase. On the back of each package, there should be a suggested serving size. As always, contact your veterinarian if you are concerned about how your Bernedoodle is developing. Interestingly enough, adult Bernedoodle dogs tend to only eat one serving a day. They can finish their larger amount of food in one sitting. When they reach an even older age it may be difficult for them to finish this serving in one feeding. It is helpful to spread these servings out for older dogs while it gets harder to finish a meal. At this point you will be in tune to what your Bernedoodle dog needs. Bernedoodles are known for their love of food! It is easy to over-feed your puppy. A general rule is to check their ribs. You should be able to feel the ribs easily but not be able to see them at a glance. This is a great way to check on your Bernedoodle dogs and their weight gain. It can be tempting to feed your pup food from the table. This seems innocent but can create poor eating habits down the road. It can also disrupt their digestive systems. You have worked hard to create a healthy diet and want to keep it that way. If a Bernedoodle puppy is hungry, they will eat from their designated spot and will not need anything extra. Do not forget that although the feeding schedule is important, we cannot forget about giving our dogs plenty of exercise! Long walks will encourage a healthy life for your Bernedoodle and for you. Overall health includes diet and exercise. This is another reason why Bernedoodle puppies are a wonderful family dog. They have plenty of energy to keep up with toddlers. It is also a helpful way to encourage your teens to get outside and away from their technology. Bernedoodle Puppy Food — Dog Food Options With a growing amount of dog food brands, it can be hard to pick the best food. As you browse the isles, it is obvious to note that wet food is more expensive than dry food. However, they are both great options! The standard Bernedoodle loves to eat and they are such large breeds that they can eat a lot. Fortunately for dog owners, many dogs love dry food. Wet or raw dog food has less carbohydrates than dry food and can be more hydrating. Many veterinarians suggest that either kind is a great choice! I would find a brand and type that fits into your grocery budget. Bernedoodles tend to eat what they are given. If only this trait would rub off on the human puppies we have. There is nothing wrong with the dry kibble choice! Each type of dog food has the nutrients it needs to help your dog grow. The biggest difference between dry and wet dog food may be the way it is digested. Keep in mind — that as with kids and yourself there may be adjusting to find what is best for your puppy. Start with a small bag the first time you purchase puppy food, and if you are changing them from what they were on at a breeder or in a shelter mix the new food with the previous food for a slower change on their gut. Now that you have been prepared with nutrition knowledge, you are ready to welcome that pup in to the family. Giving them proper puppy and adult dog food will help create a healthy dog. More than food, your Bernedoodle needs love and affection. This will not be difficult at all. Bernedoodles are easy to create a bond with. I know that you will love your Bernedoodle puppy as much as my family does! If you have any questions feel free to leave them in the comments below, and be sure to pin the photo below to find this post later. Related Posts:. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Mini Bernedoodles planned for, loved on, and prepared for forever families. If you want to give your dog a treat, then get a treat that is meant for your dog and not for you. The best kinds of treats for your dog are freeze dried meat or fish. This is strictly meat, no additives, no coloring. Chews are good for your dog but do not give your dog rawhide because it comes off in big chunks and can choke your dog. Other chews you should avoid are any sort of treats or chews made in China, buy local as much as possible. Go to your local butcher and ask for raw meaty bones, specifically for dogs. Bully sticks, pig ears, chicken feet, and cow hooves are all very good options. If you would like to get your puppy on a good potty schedule you need to offer your puppy food at least three times a day until it is at least 4 months old or over 3 pounds. After it is 4 months old and eating well and weighs over 3 pounds you can offer it food twice a day, in the morning and evening. Put the food in the pen and leave it for approximately 15 to 20 minutes and then take it up again. Pay attention to see if your puppy does it and just take note that they are eating regularly twice a day. Once you dog is potty trained and if it is not a glutton, you may leave food out for longer periods of time if you prefer. Nutrition The idea that canine diets should be grain free may have come about due to some allergy concerns as well as the realization that dogs are carnivores and should be eating a diet with a substantial amount of meat. Of course, many manufacturers were quick to promote this new fad diet and eager to capitalize on sincerely concerned pet owners. The problem is that there have been no significant studies conducted on these grain free diet feeding plans for dogs. In fact, many veterinarians and even the FDA are now realizing that grain free dog food is actually causing more harm than good. The concern is that when grains are taken out of the food, another filler must be added to take the place of these grains. These fillers are usually high in carbohydrates like peas and lentils, which have been linked to Dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , diabetes, and other serious health issues in dogs. When you are looking for dog food be sure that you do your due diligence and check ingredients, do your research. Look for a reputable brand, which is generally one you can't get at the grocery store. Your local feed store is an excellent source of high quality dog food that often comes with some great advice. Keep mixing and giving more and more of the new food, little by little. In this way you can avoid tummy upsets for your dog. Frequency Of Feeding Bernedoodle puppies have different nutritional requirements compared to adult dogs. Puppies need more frequent meals as their stomachs are smaller, and they require regular energy to fuel their growth. Generally, Bernedoodle puppies that are two to six months of age typically eat three times a day. It is essential to maintain a consistent feeding schedule when raising a Bernedoodle puppy. Choosing The Right Type Of Food When it comes to choosing the right type of food for your Bernedoodle puppy, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you will want to make sure that the food you select is appropriate for their size and nutritional needs. Soaking Kibble For Easier Digestion One of the recommended feeding guidelines for Bernedoodle puppies is soaking their kibble in raw milk. Soaking kibble can make it easier for them to digest and absorb nutrients from their food. When puppies eat dry kibble, they tend to swallow large pieces whole, which can lead to digestive issues such as bloating and constipation. For example, by the time Bernedoodles are weeks old, they will be eating one raw meal per day and two kibble meals per day soaked in raw milk. Raw milk contains probiotics that can help promote healthy gut flora and improve overall digestion. It is also high in protein, calcium, vitamin D and other essential vitamins and minerals that support growth development at this stage of life. Factors To Consider When Feeding A Bernedoodle Puppy When feeding a Bernedoodle puppy, age, weight, activity level, and nutritional requirements should all be taken into account to ensure that they are getting the proper amount of food for their growth and development. Age As your Bernedoodle puppy grows and develops, their age plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate feeding regimen. Each stage of growth has specific nutritional requirements to ensure healthy development and weight maintenance. For example, at eight weeks to 12 weeks old, these fluffy pups need about one cup of food three times a day to fuel their rapid growth. Around four months of age, it is important for owners to establish a regular feeding schedule with meals served at consistent times each day. This helps develop good eating habits and prevents potential gastrointestinal issues caused by erratic meal timings. Weight One of the most important factors to consider when determining how much to feed your Bernedoodle puppy is their weight. Activity Level The activity level of a Bernedoodle puppy plays a significant role in determining the appropriate amount and type of food they require. Puppies with higher energy levels will burn more calories throughout the day, thus needing increased caloric intake to support their growth and development. A common rule for puppies is providing 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, times per day; this can help you estimate how much food your pooch needs. Additionally, consulting with your veterinarian about tailoring meal portions can further aid in promoting healthy weight gain and avoiding overfeeding issues. These adorable pups require high-quality, animal-based protein in their diets for optimal growth and development. Additionally, Bernedoodle puppies need higher amounts of calories than adult dogs due to their growth stage. As they grow older, the caloric requirement will decrease gradually before reaching adulthood at around two or three years old. It is recommended to weigh your Bernedoodle at least once a month, preferably more frequently during their growth stage. Moreover, regular weigh-ins can also prevent obesity, which is a common problem among dogs. Overfeeding or underfeeding can lead to various health issues such as joint problems, heart disease, and diabetes. Here are some signs of overfeeding or underfeeding your Bernedoodle puppy: Weight gain or loss: Sudden and drastic weight changes can indicate an imbalance in their diet. Ensure that you keep track of their weight regularly. Low energy levels: Overfeeding can lead to lethargy and low energy levels, while underfeeding can make them restless. Digestive issues: Overfeeding may cause digestive problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, or constipation. Behavioural changes: Overfed puppies may show lack of interest in activities, become irritable or overly aggressive, while underfed puppies tend to become anxious and overly active. Dull coat: Both overfed and underfed puppies may have a dull-looking coat due to poor nutrition. Increased thirst and urination: Overfeeding can lead to excessive water intake resulting in frequent peeing while underfeeding can cause the opposite effect where they drink less water than required. Reduced appetite: Underfed puppies often lose interest in food altogether leading them with a reduced appetite. As a general rule of thumb, the amount of exercise should be limited to 5 minutes per month of age until they reach maturity. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can adversely affect their health and cause other problems down the line. Also, be sure to measure out the exact portion sizes recommended for each meal as free-feeding or guessing can lead to overconsumption. Importance Of High-Quality Ingredients Choosing the right type of food for your Bernedoodle puppy is crucial, and one of the most important factors in ensuring their health and wellbeing is selecting high-quality ingredients. High-quality dog food should provide your pup with a balanced diet that includes all the necessary nutritional requirements, such as protein, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats and carbohydrates. When choosing a dog food brand for Bernedoodles puppies or dogs, look out for products that use real meat such as chicken or lamb rather than by-products. Additionally, avoid foods that contain artificial preservatives and fillers like corn gluten meal or wheat flour. This dog food brand also has wholesome grains like brown rice and barley which are easy to digest sources of complex carbohydrates; it maintains energy levels throughout long playtime sessions spent outdoor exercising while supporting digestive health thanks to fiber content from fruits and vegetables plus probiotic strains supplements found within each kibble bite-sized piece they consume. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of dry, wet, and raw food options to make an informed decision. Type of Food. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. How Much to Feed a Bernedoodle One of the most common questions we get is how much to feed their puppy, teenager and adult bernedoodle. Great question and unfortunately many do not understand the needs and requirements of an F1 standard bernedoodle bernese mountain dog x standard poodle that has Bernese mountain dogs in them. So to expect a bernedoodle to have a waist line like a Great Dane will put your bernedoodle into hunger mode and if young will lead to potential behavioral challenges and this is a time when they need calories due to them being a fast growing mixed breed. We shoot for always having a little bit of food left over and we let them have access to food for about minutes but this can be adjusted based on your schedule. We only do this for the breakfast. We will begin adding about tablespoons of different types of lightly cooked meats can go raw as well and sardines to the above topper along with a little bit of cut up or shredded carrots, blueberries and can add other dog friendly fruits and veggies but make sure you check before using. We would also add dog-based salmon oil according to the instructions about a tsp. Often in the morning we would do sweet potato, yogurt, and a meat and dinner some of the other ingredients. Lunch we keep plain. Be sure you are washing your food and water bowls once per day with hot soapy water. Lastly we recommend starting with TLC adult all life stages dog food for large growing breeds like bernedoodles and even for the puppies. The adult food exceeds AAFCO requirements for puppies and has glucosamine and chondroitin which is important for joint development. Many vets compare bernedoodles to what they consider a typical healthy dog build high thin waist line, etc but that is not the case for F1 standard bernedoodles as they will have a thicker build. Recent Posts. This is important for all dogs but especially for a growing puppy. Protein is what essentially determines the quality of dog food. When you read the label, you will see one or more of the following protein types: Meat protein. As the name implies, this type of protein comes from other animals. It is usually made up of muscle or organ meat and is the closest protein to human quality. It is superior to other types of protein for dogs. Animal by-products. This protein type is made up of the parts of the animal that are not included in meat protein. It can be made of hair, hoofs, lips, and even eyelashes. Vegetable and grain proteins. These are mostly soy- or corn-based. The goal is to provide a diet with more animal protein than veggie protein, which you can do by choosing a food with at least two animal sources of protein listed within the first five ingredients on the bag. Carbohydrates Just like humans, Bernedoodle puppies get energy and dietary fiber from carbs. Many different types of carbs can be found within puppy food. High-quality carbs include rice, barley, and oats, while lower-quality carbs include corn or wheat. Fats and Preservatives Of all the ingredients in puppy food, fats are the most expensive. Because they are harder to extract and more challenging to preserve. The best usable fats for puppies are those from chicken, sunflower, or canola oil. Other fats you might see include fish oil and lactose-free dairy fats. Remember that vitamins are nothing more than organic additives that help give the puppy anything it needs that it is not getting from its food. If the food is of high quality, then there should not be a need for a significant amount of calories coming from vitamins. That said, some vitamins should be included within the food to allow your Bernedoodle puppy to digest it properly. There are two main types of vitamins: Fat-Soluble. Examples include A, D, E, and K, and these types of vitamins are stored in the liver and fatty tissue. Water Soluble. Examples include B and C. You will find plenty of foods with long lists of added vitamins. This might look impressive, but, again, if the food is of high quality, then less is more when it comes to vitamin additives. Consider the Ease of Obtaining Puppy Food Another factor to consider is how easily you can get a food. When it comes to ease of access, you will find three main options: Brands you can find anywhere. These are the most popular brands you have likely heard of, and they can be found at just about any grocery store, big-box store, and even some drug stores. These are also generally the least expensive options. However, they often choose meat from 4-D categories, which means the animals that make up the protein are dead, dying, or diseased. It is also common for the fats used in these brands to be of lower quality and not as easily digestible, which might require your Bernedoodle puppy to eat more to get the nutrients they need. Premium brands. Historically, they were found in specialty pet stores and animal hospitals. They generally use a higher grade of meat and higher quality fats, which means that puppies generally need less of these foods than those that are more commercially available. Holistic foods. These are only found in specialty pet stores or online. These are the cream of the crop and generally have human-grade meats and highly digestible fats. Even the grain carb mix will be made from high-quality foods. You will find many of these to be free from hormones and steroids. Of course, this quality comes with a high price, and they can be harder to find. Once again, the high quality means less food is needed compared to lower-priced options. Balancing Cost and Quality Not everyone can effort to pay for holistic food. The key is to find the best quality you can for the price you can afford. You do not need to spend that much money to keep your puppy in good health. Adult Bernedoodle Nutrition As your Bernedoodle ages, it no longer needs the extra calories for growth. Most dogs will become less active once they leave the puppy stage between 18 months and two years, which further reduces their need for calories. The type of Bernedoodle affects its total expected weight: Standard Bernedoodles get to pounds Miniature Bernedoodles get to pounds Tiny Bernedoodles get to 10 — 24 pounds If you are not sure how much your particular dog is likely to end up weighing, you can talk to your vet. Smaller Bernedoodles might be at their adult weight by six or seven months old, while standard Bernedoodles often grow well beyond 12 months of age. Once again, look at the package for its breakdown of nutrients. The two main options for adult dogs are adult maintenance all-stages. Adult maintenance is generally the better choice for dogs that are overweight or not as active, while all-stage food contains extra nutrients for more active dogs. Senior Bernedoodle Nutrition As your Bernedoodle becomes a senior dog, its nutritional requirements will change. Many senior dogs deal with a wealth of health issues , including obesity, arthritis, and cognitive issues. Meanwhile, they can also suffer from appetite loss. The opposite is actually true. A healthy senior Bernedoodle will need more protein to fuel their muscle. As dogs age, they begin to lose muscle mass — sometimes so much that they cannot move around with assistance. Find the Right Calorie Balance Younger senior Bernedoodles are often overweight, but as they get older, they tend to become underweight. You will need to know the calorie content of the food you are feeding and adjust it accordingly if your dog gains or loses weight when you do not want them to. Because many of the elements that you want a lot of — or none of — vary widely or are not listed at all on regular senior dog food. For example, a dog with heart or kidney disease should have low sodium food, but the amount of sodium on the most popular senior dog food brands ranges from 33 to mg per kcal. Likewise, a dog with kidney disease would need a diet that is low in phosphorous, but no dog food label notes how much phosphorous is in a diet. If your senior Bernedoodle develops a health condition that requires strict control over specific elements of their diet, a prescription diet might be the only place to achieve that goal. You Will Need to Find a Food That Your Dog Likes When it comes to feeding younger Bernedoodles, unless your dog is particularly picky, you can likely feed them whatever is healthiest, and they will be happy to eat it. The same cannot be said for senior dogs, who often do not have a healthy appetite. In addition to loss of appetite, senior Bernedoodles might have dental issues that make it hard to chew their food, or digestive issues that make them uncomfortable after eating certain food types. At this stage, you might choose canned or soft food that they enjoy eating more. You can also help your dog eat more easily by feeding them on a raised platform or while they are lying down so that they do not have to bend down. Bernedoodle Treats When your Bernedoodle is still a puppy, you will need treats for training. You will need to experiment to determine what this is for your puppy. One of the most popular options is freeze-dried liver. Your dog might prefer small pieces of chicken or other proteins. For training, treats should be very small so that your dog can quickly eat them and move on to the next part of the training. If you are training for an extended period and offering a significant number of treats, then you should reduce the amount of kibble you give your puppy to balance the calories they received via treats. As your dog grows, you might still want to treat them from time to time, but you will not be offering them as many treats as you did when they were training. Feeding Schedules for Bernedoodles The amount of food you feed your Bernedoodle will depend on the food you choose for them. Look at the bag to see the recommended number of cups. If you have a puppy, there will be a chart with weeks or months of age along with weight. Find where your puppy fits and feed based on that amount. Note that these are just starting places. Your food might suggest 3 cups of food, but if you find that your puppy is constantly hungry and not gaining weight as quickly as they should, then they might need more. Feeding Frequency Until six months of age, puppies should eat three times per day. After they reach this mark, feeding them twice per day is recommended for the rest of their life. However, if you cannot feed your puppy three times per day, trust that your puppy will adapt. The number of times you feed them is not nearly as important as feeding them the correct amount. If your lifestyle allows for it, feed your puppy or dog at the same time every day. This helps comfort the pup because it will learn that food is coming. It also helps keep their digestion regular and makes it easier for you to notice if your dog is eating more or less than they usually do. If their appetite varies slightly from day to day, there is likely nothing wrong. However, if your Bernedoodle suddenly loses its appetite or changes its diet preferences for several weeks, it is time to call the vet. Post navigation. My Bernedoodle is 18 months old and around 60 lbs. She currently eats 1 cup three times per day and has maintained a healthy weight. Bernedoodles perfectly pair the loyal and laid-back Bernese Mountain dog with the intelligent, low-shedding Poodle. Their gentle but playful nature makes them a popular choice for families with children, but even active seniors and singles can enjoy the company of a Bernedoodle. Also referred to as the Bernese Mountain Poo, Bernedoodles love to eat! Because of this, many new owners have concerns about whether their Bernedoodle is getting enough food. Variations in breed types toy, mini, and full-size , as well as the specific activity levels, age, and health of each dog, can further complicate the feeding time and schedule required for optimal health. Gain more insight on feeding your Bernedoodle in this guide , including the amount, type, and frequency of food. Dogs need a well-balanced diet to support a healthy immune system and proper growth like all living things. As omnivorous animals, dogs need a diet of animal and plant proteins. Malnutrition, or failing to supply any nutrients, can result in serious health complications for a Bernedoodle. Protect your pup with a varied, high-quality diet rich in protein, grains, vitamins, and minerals. Each has its own set of pros and cons. Wet dog food can ease the transition for a weaning puppy, but the prolonged feeding of wet foods particularly canned versions can lead to digestive problems. Dogs who consume a diet primarily of wet foods also tend to have more dental problems, such as plaque buildup and tooth decay. While you can counteract this effect by offering whole bones to your dog, it may not be sufficient in helping them avoid dental issues. Kibble dry dog food is generally the preferred feeding method for dogs, particularly among large dog breed owners. It is often because kibble tends to be less expensive per pound than other dog foods. Kibble also typically lasts longer than raw or cooked food, so there is less potential for waste. The hardness of kibble can also protect a dog from dental issues, as it helps to wear away plaque, the leading cause of tooth decay. If you choose this feeding method for your Bernedoodle, take some time to research and compare the various brands. Pay special attention to major recalls. Opt for a trusted and reputable brand. Consider using dog brand comparison sites for an in-depth look at the ingredients. Avoid by-products and focus, instead, on kibbles that contain mostly whole-food ingredients. Cooked and raw dog food diets have emerged as a trend over the past few years. These diets typically involve the preparation of human foods like liver, eggs, cottage cheese, sweet potatoes, chicken, and beef cuts. However, there are commercial selections available for purchase. The potentially large size of a Bernedoodle can make raw and cooked food diets cost-prohibitive for some owners. Even those that can afford it should talk to their vet. Should it be administered incorrectly, a raw or cooked diet can lead to serious nutrient deficiencies. This can lead to long-term and even life-threatening health problems for your Bernedoodle. Regardless of the age or size of your Bernedoodle, a feeding schedule should be used to prevent overeating and obesity. The only exception is when the pup is weaning during its first three months. Grazing can be permitted during this stage to help them adjust to regular dog food. When Bernedoodle puppies reach four months of age, owners should move to a regular feeding schedule. The pup should be fed at the same time each day, three times daily. At around six months of age, the growth of a Bernedoodle begins to slow, and obesity becomes more of a risk. To minimize it, Bernedoodle puppies should be transitioned to twice-daily feedings once they reach six months of age. Older senior dogs may sometimes need to return to grazing, as they may struggle to eat their entire serving in one sitting. Just be sure to watch your dog for excessive weight gain. Bernedoodles tend to be voracious eaters, so they can quickly become overweight when allowed to graze. Puppies can be especially prone to bone problems if permitted to gain weight too quickly, so watch them closely for any signs of excessive eating. Also, be sure to feed your Bernedoodle the right amount of food. Larger Bernedoodle dogs will need more. However, the amount of dog food should not be determined through charts alone. They are only guidelines. Health, age, exercise and activity levels, and sub-breed can alter the amount of food a Bernedoodle needs — sometimes significantly. Healthy Bernedoodle pups can eat as much as three times the food as an adult dog of the same weight. As such, Bernedoodle owners should start at the minimum amount of food and then monitor the dog for weight loss and weight gain. An observation journal can help you note small changes over time while also allowing you to keep track of how much your Bernedoodle is eating. Dogs getting the appropriate amount of food usually have visible ribs and a tucked tummy. This is when viewed from the side. When viewed from above, they should have a visible waist. If your dog continues to appear underweight, despite increases in food intake. You may need to schedule a trip to the vet to rule out parasites or underlying health conditions. Should you start noticing a rounded stomach, a waist disappears when viewing your dog from the side. Reduce their food amount slightly until their shape returns. You can also take your Bernedoodle out for more exercise to reduce their weight. Bernedoodle Treats — Yes, No, or Sometimes? Treats are often used to train young Bernedoodles. Of course, senior dogs love treats, too! Yet, because Bernedoodles can be prone to overeating, avoiding excessive treat giving with this breed is important. Bernedoodles rarely mind. Give only limited amounts of commercial dog and protein-dense treats to minimize the risk of obesity in your Bernedoodle. Bones with marrow should only be given on occasion. Keeping Your Bernedoodle Healthy Diet is not the only health consideration that Bernedoodles owners need to make, as it is not the only pillar to good health. Depending on their age or specific health needs, your dog may also need additional vitamins or supplements; your vet can advise you further. Such as malnutrition, tooth decay, excessive weight gain, sluggishness, unusual shedding, or other alarming symptoms. Regular check-ups and vaccinations are also important for ensuring good health in your pet. From puppy to senior, you can keep your Bernedoodle happy and healthy. Whereas by feeding them a well-rounded, high-quality diet rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Good health allows them to be a loved member of your family for years to come. Below is a Pinterest friendly photo…. Sharing is caring! They are smart dogs, family-friendly, and very loyal. They can vary in size from 10 pounds to 50 pounds because poodles come in different sizes toy, miniature and standard. Their personalities can vary quite a bit as well, making each Bernedoodle unique! It really depends on which parent breed they take after. They can differ even more the original litter is bred with other Poodles or Bernese Mountain Dogs. Additionally, the Bernedoodle is a newer breed so people are still learning about them with each generation. They usually have curly or at least wavy coats that tend to shed less and cause fewer problems for allergy sufferers. They do not like to be left alone and can develop separation anxiety. Good training can help to prevent this, however, and this quality makes them wonderful canine friends anyway. Feeding Your Bernedoodle Puppy Thorough knowledge of puppy feeding can help deter bad behavior and potential health issues down the road as your puppy blossoms into an adult. Your puppy needs a well-balanced diet just like a human baby. It should contain a combination of proteins from both plant and meat sources, as well as some grains. Also, puppy food and adult dog food are not the same. Puppies require more nutrients and more calories than adult dogs because they are growing so quickly. You can choose between dry food, canned food, cooked food, or raw food. Dry and canned foods are designed to provide all of the nutrients that your puppy needs to grow and be healthy. There are also size-specific food types you can choose from that contain different nutrient amounts or smaller kibble. As puppies transition from nursing to puppy food, it may be easier to feed them a mixture of wet and dry food. This will help them adjust to eating just kibble as they get older. Bernedoodle puppies tend to overeat, so they must be kept on a feeding schedule. Puppies younger than four months can be allowed to graze as needed as they transition from nursing to puppy food. At four months old, Bernedoodle puppies should be fed three times per day, at the same times each day. At six months old, you should transition your Bernedoodle puppy to feedings twice per day instead of three times. Be sure to feed your Bernedoodle puppy early enough in the evening that he has time to digest and go potty or he may have accidents overnight. The amount of food you feed your Bernedoodle puppy can vary greatly based on the size of poodle the Bernese was bred with toy, mini, or standard. Smaller Bernedoodle puppies, those that were bred from toy or miniature poodles, will require much less food than the larger Bernedoodle puppies. Keep an eye on the shape of your puppy. You should be able to see his ribs slightly and his tummy should tuck upward. You should not be able to see his hips, however. Begin feeding your Bernedoodle puppy the smallest amount for their weight, but if he looks underweight, increase that amount gradually. If he looks overweight, decrease his food intake. The first step to determine how much to feed your puppy is to figure out approximately what your puppy will weigh once he is an adult. The following chart show approximately how much to feed your puppy based on weight and age range: Bernedoodle Puppy Feeding Chart 6 weeks to 3 months 4 — 5 months. Totay How much should I feed my puppy? Visit this link to find where you can purchase this food near you: Diamond Naturals Website It is good to let your puppy have free-choice access to his food for the first week of being re-homed. After that, we recommend them being on a schedule of eating four times a day, offering as much as they will eat in the time frame of seven minutes. As your puppy gets older, he can be fed less times per day 3x at 12 weeks old, and then cut it down to twice a day. Please read the article below by Dr. Becker and see condition chart. The article is talking mostly about large breeds growing too fast, but this can happen in the doodles, too. After all, they have large breeds in their genetics. Becker By Dr. Becker Serious Health Problems Often Develop in Puppies Who Grow Too Fast There are several factors that contribute to the skeletal development of puppies, including genetics, exercise, trauma and nutrition. One of the most important factors is nutrition. The good news is that nutrition is something you, as a pet owner, have complete control over. Many large and giant breed dogs are genetically predisposed to grow too fast. Unfortunately, humans continue to help the process along by feeding inappropriate, high-growth pet food formulas to these puppies. Rapid bone growth can result in structural defects of the bones, which makes the skeleton even less able to bear the increasing body weight. Also, big dogs have less bone density than smaller breeds, meaning their bones are more fragile and prone to injury. Overfeeding a puppy during the active, rapid growth period right after weaning leads to skeletal problems. The goal for large and giant breed puppies should be controlled growth — not overgrowth. The size a dog ultimately becomes is primarily dictated by genetics. But the time it takes a dog to reach full adult size can be controlled to a large degree by nutrition. Protein is Not the Culprit — Excess Calories and Minerals Are Researchers have studied the diets of large breed dogs for over 30 years to understand the link between improper nutrition and skeletal problems. Studies have repeatedly concluded dietary protein levels have no effect on the development of skeletal problems in large and giant breed dogs. But still today, many breeders of large dogs, owners and even some veterinarians will tell you protein is the problem, even though there is no evidence to prove it. Protein excess is not the problem. The elements of nutrition that have been scientifically proven to negatively impact skeletal development in puppies are excessive calories and high or unbalanced mineral content, specifically calcium and phosphorus i. Absorption, of course, occurs through the intestines. The higher the calcium and mineral content of the diet, the greater the level of absorption and assimilation into the developing bone structure of the puppy. This can disturb the natural process of bone growth and result in lesions in the skeleton and joints. High mineral concentrations in the diet can quickly cause bone mineral changes that play into skeletal abnormalities in a growing puppy. These include hypertrophic osteodystrophy, also called HOD. This is a severely painful bone disease that affects multiple limbs and causes lameness. Also craniomandibular osteopathy, a disease that affects the bones of the skull, including the lower jaw. A high mineral content diet has also been shown to cause conformation problems and abnormalities in both stature and weight gain. Puppies who get too big, too fast and go on to develop orthopedic issues are typically fed a very tasty, high energy, high mineral content diet. Many of these puppies are free-fed. Others are simply fed too much at each meal. The problematic high energy nutrient in all these diets tends to be too many carbohydrates. A healthy, large or giant breed puppy will thrive on a portion-controlled, balanced, species-appropriate diet. You can feed a spot-on balanced homemade diet or an excellent quality commercially available food. What about those large breed puppy foods? Traditional puppy foods often provide much higher calorie content than large breed puppies require, causing them to gain too much weight too quickly. This is why pet food manufacturers began producing formulas specifically for large breed puppies. These are typically diets lower in calorie density the number of calories per cup or gram of food than a regular puppy diet. These are two very important factors for reducing too-rapid growth in big puppies. Some adult foods may also be low calorically, but often they have high calcium content on an energy basis, which is not what you want for a growing large or giant breed pup. I do not recommend feeding a traditional high growth puppy food to large breed puppies. How Much to Feed Most vets and breeders agree puppies can be moved to adult foods between six and 10 months of age, depending on the breed, size, and current physical development. Several factors will play into the amount of food you feed your puppy. Puppies eat much more for their weight than adult dogs, and young puppies actually eat quite a bit more than older puppies. Very young puppies should be fed three to four times a day, in fact, whereas older puppies often do well with twice-daily feedings. Following feeding guidelines on the back of a dog food bag can give you some guidelines on portions to feed, but remember those are only general guidelines. Raw-fed puppies need a larger volume of food than kibble-fed puppies, because raw food contains less fat and calories per ounce. Another common feeding guideline is to allow your pup to eat at her own pace for about 10 minutes three times a day. Most importantly, I recommend you feed your puppy the amount of food required to keep him lean, which is about a 2 out of 5 or a 4 out of 9 body condition score.

Degenerative Myelopathy Von Willebrand Disease Perhaps the most well-known is hip dysplasia, a condition that causes the hip joint to develop abnormally. This can lead to pain and lameness, and eventually requiring surgery. German Shepherds are also at risk for elbow dysplasia, a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Other common health problems include allergies, intestinal issues, and eye problems. With proper care and diet, however, German Shepherds can live long and healthy lives. Finding a German Shepherd puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. While German Shepherds are often considered to be low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, their coats do require some care and attention. The most important thing to know about German Shepherd coat care is that the breed does not shed uniformly throughout the year. After the shedding period has ended, you can reduce the frequency of brushing to once or twice a week. In addition to regular brushing, German Shepherds also need to be bathed on occasion. How often you need to bathe your German Shepherd will depend on factors such as how often they play outside and whether they have any allergies or skin sensitivities. Generally speaking, however, a once-monthly bath is sufficient for most dogs. German Shepherd Puppies For Sale. Playfulness Watchdog Ability The German Shepherd Dog is a natural protector and so adaptable and intelligent that they have performed about every job known to dogs. If he had opposable thumbs, he would be unstoppable. Intelligent and obedient, purebred German Shepherd puppies are more than devoted pets - they are lifelong companions. Pure-breed black German shepherd puppies have the right temperament to make engaging family pets. Leave them alone or confined. These pups will grow mischievous and become high-strung. As the name implies, they originated in Germany in the late s. As part of the Herding Group, German Shepherds were used for livestock, herding, and guarding sheep. Back then, GSDs were not considered pets or companions but servants of farmers. Although German Shepherds weren't considered household pets, their owners did provide proper food, protection, and shelter. In the early s, a German cavalry officer named Captain Max Von Stephanitz made it his mission to create an ideal German herder. He co-founded the world's first club devoted to German Shepherds. Von spent 35 years promoting and refining the wonderful breed. People finally noticed how strong, smart, and obedient German Shepherds are. So now the military employs them as working dogs. Their intelligence, strength, speed, obedience, agility, and keen sense of smell make them perfect for the job. German Shepherds are also very versatile and make great companions. Their impressive and lovable personalities soon drew the attention of other countries. German Shepherd dog was brought to the United States in the early s, and American breeders began to develop their own lines of the breed. The American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd in , and the species has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States ever since. Today, GSDs are not only considered one of the most favorite household pets. The versatility and outstanding characteristics make German Shepherds beautiful pets, companions, and protectors. Due to the breed's reputation for being loyal, courageous, and easy to train, German Shepherds are used as police or military dogs. Personality Know the personality and temperament of your German Shepherd Dog German Shepherds are well-known for their smartness, confidence, intelligence, loyalty, and courageous personalities. As household pets, German Shepherd dogs get along with their owners and other members of the family. However, they do not get along with strangers easily, but with time, they warm up to anyone who tries to be friendly with them. The German Shepherd dog breed is distinguished for courage, loyalty, and the ability to maintain training. Because German Shepherds have strong guardian instincts, they tend to be loyal and protective of their owners and children. Given their strong guardian instincts, inadequate training and poor socialization can make them aggressive toward strangers. Their over-protective and aggressive behaviors can put any owner at risk. Therefore, GSDs should be carefully socialized with proper training from a very young age. The best thing about GSDs is that they are intelligent. German Shepherd dogs are usually active and like to be occupied with an activity. They do well with people who allow them to stay active. They need an ample amount of exercise daily to retain their activeness. They should be continually exposed to supervision during the training period. Most importantly, your German Shepherd should not be confined to a kennel or backyard alone, as GSDs like to be around their loved ones. Keeping them tied up alone will make them lonely and aggressive. A German Shepherd dog should be purchased from a good and reputed breeder. We do not hand over any puppy or dog without having them vet-checked. Health Health is wealth, even for your German Shepherd dog. As a dog lover, when you welcome a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they become an integral part of your life. Besides training your dog, it is best to focus on your pet's wellness. You must do everything you need to optimize your pet's health and happiness. Most German Shepherds are usually healthy dogs if purchased from a good breeder. A responsible breeder will screen breeding stock to check on health conditions such as elbow dysplasia, canine hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, etc. The German Shepherd Dog has an average lifespan of 9 to 13 years. Male, Adult German Shepherd weighs around lbs. Female, Adult German Shepherd weighs around lbs. They can run 30 mph Maximum Running. Moreover, German Shepherds are prone to experience problems like bloat, skin allergies, gastric torsion, and abdomen swelling. German Shepherds experience these conditions. German Shepherds must be taken to the vet, like most other dogs, for routine health checkups. A regular checkup allows you to track your pet's health condition. Owners should be aware of all the GSDs' health-related symptoms to take care of them by taking their dogs to the vet when any symptom occurs. Besides, if you want to buy a healthy pet, you must contact a good breeder. We do everything a good breeder would do to deliver a healthy puppy to a customer. We also discuss health problems in the genetics of a puppy or dog. Grooming The importance of grooming your German Shepherd dog The adorable appearance of the German Shepherd dog is known to all. They are very adorable and majestic to look at. GSDs usually shed twice a year. Proper grooming helps in controlling shedding and keeps the coat nice. They only need a quick brushing a few times a week. A thorough brush helps to remove loose hairs from their coat and keep the fur nice and shiny. During the shedding time, frequent brushing is required to prevent the mess caused by heavy shedding. Giving the occasional bath should suffice to help them clean and smell nice. Your dog can end up hurting you unintentionally if the nails are too long. Invest in quality dog grooming products to ensure proper and safe grooming. Thus, do not forget to groom your precious German Shepherd dog. Finding How to find the right German Shepherd Breeders? The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U. S and all over the world. GSDs have love and affection towards their owners, whether a puppy, a young dog, or an adult dog. Find and choose a good breeder to find the right German Shepherd puppy. Finding a good breeder is the key if you want a purebred and healthy German Shepherd puppy or dog. You need a good and reputed breeder to find the right puppy or dog for your family. Most importantly, puppies and dogs sold by breeders must be AKC-registered, which means that they follow the rules and regulations established by the AKC. We care more about placing the puppies in the right homes than making big bucks. We are happy to share any information you need about a puppy. We welcome any questions about a puppy with a big smile. The price is determined by several factors, including but not limited to the following: The breeder's location Show Record How many puppies can a German shepherd have? A German shepherd can have six to eight puppies. Larger litter are usually born to dogs that are bred early and often. The mother's milk production is also stimulated by the hormone prolactin, which is secreted in large amounts after mating. When do German shepherd puppies' ears stand up? Some puppies' ears stand up as early as 5 or 6 weeks old, but others don't have completely erect ears until they're a few months old. As long as the puppy's ears start to stand up by about 8 or 9 weeks old, there's no need to worry. If the puppy's ears haven't begun to stand up by then, you should take it to the vet to see if there's a problem. Contact us before the puppies get sold. 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.

Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepherd Pit Bulls are prone to weight gain. They also have high energy levels. About three hours a day of activity is recommended. Agility training, hiking, walking, running, or playing around a yard will keep them happy. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. One of the toughest jobs when caring for a German Shepherd Pit Bull is maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth daily, as many breeds are prone to dental issues. Vets or groomers are good at performing this messy task. You should consult your veterinarian or professional pet nutritionist for advice on what to feed your German Shepherd Pit Bull and the correct portion sizes. Their dietary needs will change as they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years. Stay on top of these nutritional requirements. Their German Shepherd parents grow very rapidly between the ages of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. Overfeeding your German Shepherd Pit Bull and letting them pack on the pounds can cause joint problems, as well as other health conditions. Limit treats, keep them active, and serve them regular meals rather than leaving food available at all times. The main colors of German Shepherd Pit Bulls coats are brown, black, white, grey, tan, and fawn. Almost never solid, their coats are generally a mixture of two or more colors. They usually have short thick coats, and this mixed breed is not recommended for people with allergies. They tend to shed quite a bit and you may need to pick up a RoboVac. These pups will require at least three good brushes per week. Brushing will also help to spread the oils throughout the coat. German Shepherd Pit Bulls may be able to handle some extreme weather conditions for short periods of time. These dogs must live indoors with their families. However their size could put them at a disadvantage around smaller children. They could easily accidentally knock over a toddler. No matter how friendly, no dog should ever be left unsupervised with a small child. German Shepherd Pit Bulls can get along well other dogs, especially if raised with them. Socialization early on is a must for this mixed breed. For a better understanding of this breed read more about their parent breeds, the German Shepherd and American Pit Bull Terrier. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or American Pit Bull Terrier breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Lifespan Sociability In many cases, these dogs are not available from breeders. Some mixed breeds are popular enough to have breeders dedicated to them, but the German Shepherd Terrier is not one of them. Most dogs will come from accidental litters. A German Shepherd will accidentally end up breeding with a terrier, leaving the owner with a bunch of puppies to get rid of. As you might imagine, the puppies will often be extremely inexpensive. You may even be able to get them for free. However, they would not have undergone the genetic testing that breeders put their dogs through. Some backyard breeders produce this mixed breed, and they may be a better option than purchasing a puppy from an accidental litter. However, the quality of these puppies tends to shift a lot. There are few terriers that a German Shepherd can breed with, making accidental litters a bit difficult as well. Jack Russel Terriers are small, energetic dogs bred to hunt small rodents and protect farmland from pests. The American Staffordshire Terrier is a larger dog that was bred to fight other animals. They are largely kept as companion animals today, though they are also one of the few dog breeds that can handle wild boars and similar, dangerous animals. We recommend asking about the specific terrier used to produce the puppy before adopting them. The breed can affect their temperament significantly. In accidental litters, the identity of one parent may not be known. Some terriers are pretty large, which would produce a dog closer to the size of a German Shepherd. They may weigh as little as 20 pounds or as much as 60 pounds. Often, they are at least somewhat protective. Sometimes, they can be extremely protective, while this trait is less pronounced in other instances. Where their protective instincts fall depends on the genetics they inherit from both parents, as well as how they were raised. Dogs that are heavily socialized at a young age can often be friendly or at least not aggressive towards strangers. This canine will likely never be as friendly as a Labrador Retriever. Often, this breed is exceedingly intelligent. This makes them very easy to train. They are often very devoted to their owners and follow commands easily. However, it also means that they need regular mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Otherwise, they can become bored and destructive. With that said, most terriers are not as intelligent or trainable as a German Shepherd. They are still intelligent dogs. They require lots of mental stimulation and exercise. However, as long as you can meet their needs, these dogs are an excellent option for most experienced dog owners. Just be sure you can dedicate the time their temperament calls for before you adopt a puppy. Most are not scared of kids due to their larger size, especially if they have been socialized with children previously. However, sometimes, German Shepherd Terrier mixes can be pretty small. This weight is plenty small enough for some exuberant children to hurt. If a pound child falls on a pound dog, the dog could easily get hurt. Often, these dogs are great with members of their own family, including children. Be sure to keep this in mind if your child regularly has other kids over. The dog might not like them playing together very much, especially if things get a bit rough. In the end, it can be hit-or-miss with this mixed breed and smaller children. However, they are often great for active families with older kids. If you have small children, you may want to look elsewhere for a more appropriate breed. If you adopt these dogs as adults and know that they are on the larger end of the spectrum, they can be good in households with small children. Their protective instincts can be applied to unfamiliar dogs, especially if they come into their home. However, most are completely fine with dogs they have been raised with. However, it takes socialization to make your German Shepherd Terrier mix accept other dogs. We highly recommend puppy classes at an early age. Group classes are great for training and socialization. In fact, we recommend them primarily because they provide a great socialization opportunity that is safe and controlled. They will chase cats and anything else that they interpret as prey animals. Because this is an innate instinct and not fear-driven, socialization will not help you. They will still see it as something to chase. Some people may be surprised when they find out the qualities of these dogs. As a designer dog, this is the offspring of two pure breeds: German Shepherds and Terriers. Combine an active, brilliant dog with daring and interest to get an even more promising result for you in terms of personality traits — which will likely make this a great pet or family member. They have been bred to be both smart and enthusiastic about their work. This designer dog combines judgment with an eagerness for adventure. Plus they are fearless warriors with tons of courage — perfect traits for any pet owner or guardian alike. With such a powerful and sharp personality, the German Shepherd Terrier Mix is a great designer dog for those who love outdoor activities. It requires plenty of training to keep its mental encouragement levels up so it can be sure not only this breed thrive in size but also temperament with you. Mixing the German Shepherd and Terrier is a great way to produce dogs with instinctive protectiveness. These crosses are known for their love of walks, gardens, or yards where they can keep watch over loved ones. The best way to determine if a dog is a perfect match for your lifestyle and family would be by looking at its breed. There are many breeds that have been prevalent throughout history but two of them in particular- terriers and German shepherds, have unique features which make them stand out from other purebreds; such as being protective or having an excellent sense of smell. This affectionate reed requires your undivided attention as it has very high energy levels that make them quite unique among both Designer Dogs rare and have some playtime with its buddies while still remaining attentive towards you. Bull terriers are known for being more aggressive than their German shepherd parent breed and this can be an issue when it comes to socializing with others as well as your own dog! When raising these Bull Terrier GSD Mix properly though we must make sure that all aspects of life including mental stimulation through exercising are given so our dog knows what kind of feelings look like too. He is intelligent and confident, but also good-natured and trustworthy. An Am Staff who is responsibly bred and well-socialized is a loyal friend who is ready to provide you with a lifetime of friendship and love. American Staffordshire terrier german shepherd mix puppies are lovely and easy to train, German shepherd Staffordshire terrier mix can be your dog because he is an active dog with a high energy level, and requires regular exercise. He is intelligent and can be trained to be a good companion, but he also requires a fair amount of work and training. They have been found to be watchful dogs that can also function as guard dogs or companion animals depending on what you need them for! Training this breed early will make it easy because they seem very responsive when trained correctly from an early age. The best part? These dogs are excited by the sound of bells from church steeples—perfect for those who live near nature! How to train a jack Russell terrier mix? German Shepherd Jack Russell Terrier Mix is a high-energy dog with lots of exercise needs who loves to play! She can get along well in an environment with plenty of room for running around. A mix of these dogs that are equally large or small depending on their heritage! With its high energy levels, this dog will have you constantly on your feet! On average-sized yards or fenced backyards though? The Border mixed breed can live comfortably without any problems at all! The dog has a weather-beaten, mottled appearance, with the head of a German Shepherd and the body of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier. These dogs are known for their intelligence, bravery, and loyalty. Height could be considered small due to ancestral involvement in genetic behavior when combining both breeds. Appearance varies and does not have a constant look as it is totally dependent on breeds that are responsible for a generation. He is a highly energetic dog, full of life, and loves being around people. He is a great dog to have around the house, as he enjoys keeping people company and loves to play games with his family. The Spaniard breed is high-energy, which means they will require a lot of exercises. You will want to plan on taking them on a walk and hike in order to keep them active. You can also let them run around in a backyard or a dog park to let off some steam. Being able to run around and stretch their legs is a great way to keep their energy level in check. He is a medium-sized breed, weighing between 35 and 70 pounds as an adult. He has a dense double coat that is either red, fawn, or black in color, with either a Wheaten Terrier coat or a short German Shepherd Dog coat. This breed is known for its long, soft, silky coat that is similar to a wirehaired terrier coat. These are wonderful dogs. They are lively and affectionate, and they get along well with people and other dogs. They are intelligent and easy to train and they make loyal, companionable friends. Many people believe that it is purebred, but he is actually a hybrid breed. Post navigation. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The Bull Terrier is obviously known for being a more aggressive dog. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Bull Terrier German Shepherd Dog Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Bull Terrier German Shepherd Dog Mix puppy. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Bull Terrier History Once upon a time in 19th-century England, a breeder crossed a bulldog with a terrier. The breeder had an eye toward developing a dog breed that had both the speed and skill of the terrier and the relentlessness of the bulldog. Sadly, along the way someone decided the Bull and Terrier would be well-suited to bloodsport and began using the dogs for fighting. Despite this, when she is well socialized, the Bull Terrier makes a wonderful family pet. The pugilistic traits once bred into the dog have died off over the years. Like every animal, the Bull Terrier will behave as she is conditioned. Unfortunately, fighting dogs are still among us, but they exist only because their owners subject them to cruel training techniques designed to make them behave or respond aggressively. Animal advocacy groups have done a good job of shining a light on the dogfighting problem and are working tirelessly to rid the world of it. Hinks sought to breed an all-white dog and correct some of the physical deficiencies he perceived in the original breed. Unfortunately, breeders were uncovering some health problems attributable to breeding only for all-white dogs, so Ted Lyon began introducing color in the early 20th century. From that time on, reputable breeders have bred the Bull to be exclusively a happy if energetic family companion. Von Stephanitz had in his mind what a good working dog should be and a few generations of breeding fulfilled what Hektor envisioned. Horand von Grafrath is known to be the first German Shepherd Dog. Horand von Grafrath was bred to other similar styled dogs that were believed to have the same traits as what Von Stephanitz was looking for. His most successful offspring was Hektor von Schwaben. Von Stephanitz is widely credited for being the founder of this incredible breed. Von Stephanitz had intended for his breed to work as herding dogs, however, as Germany became more and more industrialized he saw the need to make it working dog. He convinced the German government to use the breed. The breed initially became popular in World War 1. Many American and allied servicemen grew attached to the breed during the war and brought them back to the states after the war was over. The Allied troops fell in love with the breed but not with the fact that it had German roots. It became common for police departments and those looking for true working dogs to import their dogs from Germany because the American dogs had such bad health problems.

With their wrinkled faces, stocky bodies, and heartwarming personalities, these puppies have captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts all over the world. Come along as we delve into some fascinating facts about English Bulldog puppies that will leave you even more enchanted by these delightful fur babies. These wrinkles are not just cute; they serve a historical purpose too. These little bundles of joy are notorious for their adorable snoring, thanks to their short snouts and flat faces. Their unique anatomy can sometimes lead to snoring, but it only adds to their charm. They are known for their playful and affectionate nature. These pups often seek attention and cuddles from their human companions. This stubborn side can actually make training sessions quite entertaining. However, these puppies put their own comical spin on physical activity. Due to their sturdy build and short snouts, they might not excel in activities that require intense endurance. Watching an English Bulldog puppy attempt to play fetch or chase a tennis ball can turn into a hilarious spectacle. Their determination will keep you laughing. English Bulldog puppies are incredibly loyal and devoted companions. They form strong bonds with their families and are particularly gentle and patient with children. Their affectionate nature and protective instincts make them excellent family pets , ready to shower their loved ones with endless love and loyalty. English Bulldog puppies will bring a unique blend of charm and quirkiness into your life. From their historical wrinkles to their snoring symphonies, these puppies are more than just pets. Check out shelters and rescues to find the perfect pup for you, and save a life in the process! They are also known by other names like English bulldog or British Bulldog. But whatever you may call them, they are one of the best ever breeds still existing. In ancient times, bulldogs were actually used to drive cattle to the market and used to participate in a game known as bull baiting. But today these bull dogs have became a gentle companion dogs who really love their kids a lot. But remember there are other various amazing information about this breed in the article. Read it full without a miss. Despite its energy or lack thereof , no one can deny that bulldogs have the propensity to have fun! In fact, a bulldog named Otto is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records because of its love for skateboarding. They are very compact in overall shape. They have massive folds all over their body especially on the head. The head is covered with extra skin on both the skull and forehead. The cheeks generally extend to the side of the eyes. The ears are small in appearance and are placed slightly high on the head. The short and flat coat of the bulldog is straight smooth and glossy. They are also found in various coat colors like solid white, red, brindle, fawn, pale yellow and various other combinations. One of the most common problems for English bulldogs is conception. Because of its build and biology, male bulldogs often find it difficult to mate with female bulldogs. As such, most English bulldogs are bred via artificial insemination. The next part of the problem would be giving birth. Combine that with their compact build and huge muscles, and they might quickly sink to the bottom. Therefore, if you have a swimming pool at home or you regularly go to the beach, be sure to keep an eye on your English bulldog. You can get a doggie life vest and build more sea-bound memories with your pup. They can look cute, and they can look fierce. Because of this, the English bulldog is the most popular college mascot of all time. In fact, at least 15 colleges and high schools use the English bulldog as their official mascots. The height of the bulldog is normally inches and the weight is about pounds on an average. Females are slightly of less weight ranging from pounds. Bulldogs are very prone to breathing problems and some are found with small windpipes as well. They have a poor eye sight and can fall into a heart stroke anytime in a house or a car. They are also very prone to weather changes. Skin problems and hip and knee problem are also very common. So it can be said that they are full of diseases from very early age. But if you can keep them in a good care they will obviously survive more. A bulldog is possibly the first-ever dog to ride a car. In , cars were still quite rare. Horatio Nelson Jackson, along with his co-driver Sewall K. With a horsepower car and a pair of goggles for Bud, the three of them proved to the world that cars will pave the way for transportation in the near future. So, maybe you can find a way to use these as motivation for your little one to run and play with you. Bull baiting was banned in the UK in .After that, the English bulldog almost faced extinction. Luckily, many others saw the potential of the breed. Breeders then tried to make them gentler and kinder by mixing them with other breeds that have these characteristics. As a result, they became one of the sweetest and gentlest breeds out there. They are very gentle in nature and they are very affectionate and dependable on their owners. Bulldogs are mainly known for their good courage and guarding abilities. If you are the owner they will need your attention all the time. Even some bulldogs are very dominating in nature. So if you are an owner of strong mentality, you can control them. All of England loves this breed! Since then, it has become one of the most popular breeds in the US, snatching the fourth rank. When bulldogs are young, they are very active and playful but this reduces with time as they grow old. This breed is real family pet and is very suitable for small families. Bulldogs have a habit of drooling which sometimes results in stinky smell. If you can train them in a correct way they will really do everything according to the command. So you can self train them or take them to a dog trainer who can easily train them. Bull dogs are human lovers and they really depend on them. So humans should also be very lovable towards this dig breed. English bulldogs are perhaps the most heavy-eyed dog breed out there. English bulldogs often sleep for 14 hours a day. Maybe they got tired fighting bulls in their early days which is also where they got the name , and they now just want to sit back, relax, and take a nap. English bulldogs are extremely popular among celebrities and important personalities. Some of them have even lived in the White House. Both President William G. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt also took care of a family bulldog called Jaques. David Beckham once received a bulldog named Coco from his wife Victoria as a Christmas present. Even though bulldogs may not like the water or swimming in particular, Michael Phelps has one named Herman. Adam Sandler also has a bulldog named Meatball who served as his best man in his wedding. An English bulldog is best for a small house or an apartment life. Once they grow up they will not be very active in the indoors and bulldog is a real indoor dog. So if you live in a temperate climate, you can bring a puppy today as your pet. You will really get amazed by seeing their loyalty. You have seen some beautiful photos of English bulldog puppies and you can imagine how sweet they are. I'm a blogger who loves to write about pets. I like to try new products, find cute pictures of them and share them with people. Related Posts. Our stock photo collection features an extensive range of images that capture the breed's unique charm and characteristics perfectly. The images are available in JPG, AI, and EPS formats, making them suitable for use in a variety of projects, including branding campaigns, advertisements, websites, and social media posts. Types of English Bulldog Images Our stock photo collection includes different types of English Bulldog images that cater to a diverse range of project requirements. We have images of English Bulldogs in various settings, from posed studio shots to outdoor images capturing the breed's playful nature. We also have images of English Bulldogs in different poses, whether you need a close-up of the breed's expressive face or a full-body shot showing off their stocky build. Our collection also has images of English Bulldog puppies, ideal for pet-related projects, and more. How to Choose the Right English Bulldog Image When selecting an English Bulldog image for your project, consider its intended purpose and the audience you want to target. For example, if your project is for a pet-related business, consider using an image that depicts the breed's friendly and approachable nature. Alternatively, for a project with a more serious tone, consider an image that portrays the breed's strong and commanding presence. Whichever image you choose, ensure that it is appropriate for your project's goal and message. Benefits of Using English Bulldog Images English Bulldog images can help enhance the appeal and effectiveness of your projects in several ways. First, they offer a sense of personality and warmth to your project, making it more relatable and engaging to viewers. Second, incorporating English Bulldog images into your branding campaigns can help differentiate your brand and make it more memorable. Lastly, using these images aligns your project with the desirable qualities associated with the breed, such as loyalty, strength, and uniqueness. Incorporating English Bulldog images into your projects can transform them from mediocre to stunning. Our collection provides a wide range of images to enhance the appeal and effectiveness of your project. Whether you need images for social media posts, websites or any other purpose, our stock photo collection has got you covered.

Exercise Grooming In the 19th century, Shepherds bred all kinds of dogs mainly to herd and guard flocks. Thus, the dogs needed to display a high level of intelligence, extra normal strength, resilience, courage and bravery, a keen sense of smell, and trainability qualities, etc. These mongrel combinations provided dog breeds that could efficiently guard and herd flocks but differed in appearance and ability, from one locality to another. German Shepherd dogs are well known to be highly inquisitive which makes them excellent for rescue mission training. The German Shepherd has a noble character and shows very high levels of loyalty to its owners. The dog is also described as extremely territorial and has displayed characteristics of overprotectiveness in some cases. The German shepherd can survive in all types of environment; their thick furriness makes them better prepared for cold climates. German Shepherds are considered extremely playful and active. These breeds spend half of their daily routine with activities. The German Shepherd is popularly known as an athletic natured dog and requires a good dose of daily exercise to keep up muscle tone, build and development. If improperly exercised the German Shepherd has been known to become frustrated and exhibit undesirable behaviors. The German Shepherd requires an occasional brushing, as this helps with removing loose hair from its fur. The German Shepherd sheds fur once or twice a year and in this time the breed requires a lot of soft brushing. This can be done using a soft to medium bristle brush. The German Shepherd occasionally requires that its nails are trimmed off when they grow too long, however, some breeds instinctually file their nails against any hard surface that can be fine. Excessive nail growth can cause much pain and even lead to structural concerns. In choosing a German Shepherd breed you must ask yourself what it is you want in a dog and what kind of person are you? Our German Shepherd puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. German Shepherd Puppies Pensacola, Fl are available from breeders that specialize in these dogs. Also, a good breeder will be more than happy to show you the pedigree of the dog, as well as a health clearance. Also, a good breeder will ask you for more things before he or she will ship you off with a pup. Besides, they are not in a hurry to send a puppy away. Another thing to consider when looking for a German Shepherd puppy is its personality. Because they need a lot of activity, German Shepherds need a lot of exercises. They also need a lot of attention. They can bite if they feel threatened. This breeder specializes in German Shepherds and imports them from Germany. They also offer training services. They are a great choice for those who want a companion and work in the community. German Shepherds are easy to train, and they do best in a structured environment. Another great reason to choose a German Shepherd puppy is because of its high intelligence and loyalty. While originally bred for herding sheep, German Shepherds now make excellent family pets and security dogs. The breeders of German Shepherds in Florida are specially qualified to offer the best service to your family. They have extensive experience with police dogs and specialized training for these animals. They use these techniques to breed their dogs to be the best in the business. And you can rest assured that your puppy will be healthy and happy thanks to the food the breeder feeds them. Each puppy comes with a warranty. Share this:.

This article contains Amazon Affiliate Links. I will receive a small commission if you choose to purchase an item. The main focus of a puppy supply list is always on safety. After all, when we bring our bulldog puppy home, we want to make sure that he is happy and safe and that starts with making sure we have all the essentials in place before he gets home. Once your done puppy proofing, you can grab the essentials that will keep him safe. Collar With a young puppy, I always recommend a flat collar. They are great to place his identification on and he can learn to walk on the leash. As he gets older, he can learn how to walk with a harness , which is great for most bulldog breeds. One thing I always recommend is to keep him collarless while he is alone in the house. Collars can get caught on things easily and severely injure your bulldog puppy. What I would recommend when picking the leash is that it feels comfortable in your hand and that you choose a leash that is about 6 feet in length. For training, also grab a foot lead. This should only be used for teaching come and long-distance stay, not for walking. Never use a retractable leash as they have been linked to a large number of injuries to both dogs and people and it is very difficult to control your pet on one. Identification Tag The final item in the list when it comes to collars and accessories is an identification tag. Choose one that can be personalized with all of your information. Another option is to choose a GPS tracker identification tag. That way, if your bulldog puppy escapes the yard, you can track his path on your phone. Crate Whether you will be training your bulldog puppy to lounge on the sofa while you are at work or not, you should crate train him. Crate training has a lot of benefits when it comes to house training and it keeps him safe during the day. When you are choosing a crate, you want to take a few things into consideration: Your Dog: Think about the size of your bulldog puppy and how big he will be as an adult. Choose a crate with dividers for the adult size. This is the best way to save money as your crate will grow with your puppy instead of having to purchase a new one every few months. Material: There are three types of crates, for the most part. One is a soft sided kennel made from fabric. I do not recommend these crates since they can be chewed very easily, and most bulldogs are chewers. The second is a plastic crate. These are usually used for travel as they are hard topped. First, they can be very difficult to clean if there is an accident. Second, some dogs find the plastic crates too closed and may panic. Three, I have had bulldogs chew through plastic crates within 20 minutes. Finally, metal crates with bars is the best crate for bulldogs. They may chew the plastic bottom, but that is easy to replace, and your bulldog puppy can look out, which can help him stay calm. Size: Finally, you want to consider size a bit more and look for a crate where a full-grown bulldog can stand, sit and lay down easily. They are all well made but make sure you check user reviews, so you know that your dog will be safe while you are away. Baby Gates I always recommend baby gates for several reasons. First, you can keep your bulldog puppy in a small area when they are young. As they grow more confident with their new home, you can expand it slowly by opening up the gates. Second, they are excellent for safety. You can place him in a bathroom or kitchen with a baby gate in the doorway. Your puppy will be able to see out while on a time out, which will help him feel safe. Surveillance This is not a must have but with web and security cameras out there, it can be nice to have a surveillance system, so you can check in on your bulldog puppy throughout the day. There are many pet cams that also allow you to talk to your puppy or toss them a treat. Have some fun with it and pick one up so that you can bond with your bulldog puppy whether you are home or not. Feeding supplies can be as extravagant or basic as you want. Food and Water Bowls First is the food and water bowls. With a feeding bowl, it really is up to preference. Studies have indicated that raised dishes are better to prevent bloat , however, other studies have said that raised bowls can increase the risk. With bowls, have them grow with your bulldog puppy. You want him to be able to stand comfortably and access the bowl. If he is reaching and choking on the edges, then the bowl is too large for him and you should choose a new one. Also, when you choose a bowl, use stainless steel as they are durable and very easy to keep clean. One thing with bowls that I would recommend is to choose a puzzle feeder if you find your bulldog puppy is a fast eater. This will help keep him from bloating himself Can Bulldogs Get Bloat? Food Mat I recommend this simply because bulldogs have jowls, also known as flews. And boy can these flews really hold in food and water. The food mat will keep the house a bit cleaner after your bulldog puppy takes a drink or chews on his dinner. Dog Treats and Training Treats I separate dog treats and training treats for two reasons. One: dog treats are offered as a treat or a reward. They can be given to break boredom or simply to give him something to eat. Two: training treats are only brought out when your bulldog puppy is working. This means that he will be eager to listen…well…as much as a bulldog puppy will listen when you bring the training treat out. Dog treats can be anything from bone cookies to chicken feet. Training treats should be soft, easy to break into smaller pieces and should smell really good for your bulldog. Fun, Must Have, Toys for Your Bulldog Puppy When we are busy buying things for our bulldog puppies, it is important to not forget the toys for your puppies. Obviously, you will continue to purchase toys as your bulldog puppy grows but I recommend you have 3 to 5 toys waiting for your bulldog puppy when he first arrives home. There are a few different areas that you need to look at for toys, including: Chew Toys Chew toys are durable toys that your bulldog puppy can chew while he is bored. Remember that bulldogs tend to be hard chewers, which means that he will chew through them quickly and you really need to purchase some tough toys. In addition, you will find that your bulldog puppy will chew more while he is chewing so always update his chew toys as he grows. In addition, keep track of their condition. If they start to crack or break apart, throw them away to prevent any choking hazards. Some of the best chew toys for young bulldog puppies are: Nylabone Small Puppy Teethe and Tug Toy : Perfect for teething puppies, this toy soothes painful gums and is great for a game or two with your bulldog puppy. Pelay Toy Ball: Durable, strong and a puzzle ball, this chew toy can have treats thrown in to reward your chewing puppy when he chews the right things. Goughnuts MAXX 50 Ring: This toy is definitely made for hard chewers and your bulldog puppy will love chewing on it for hours. I always buy these for my pups and they love them. They present a problem and your puppy will need to solve it before he can be rewarded with a toy, treat or other reward. It is a soft puzzle toy, so they can be destroyed easily if used for a chew toy. West Paw Tux Stuffable Tough Treat Toy: Easy to clean, durable and it floats, this puzzle treat toy will stand up to hard chewers and will reward your bulldog puppy when he gets the treats out of it. Omega Paw Tricky Treat Ball: This is another durable puzzle ball that is great for chewing and figuring out. You place treats in the ball and your bulldog puppy will have to push, rotate and work out how to get the treat from it. Soft Toys With soft toys, I would limit the number of them and make sure they are stuffed toys made for pets. Many bulldog puppies are hard chewers and they can rip apart soft toys quickly. Uncovering the Reasons Behind Your Pet's Unusual Behavior When you give soft toys, make sure you monitor your bulldog puppy while he is using it, so you can take it away as soon as he breaks it open. Although you may think that it is better to not use soft toys, they can be quite soothing for gums while your bulldog puppy is teething, which is why I recommend keeping a few on hand. Some of the better soft toys for bulldog puppies are: ZippyPaws — Loopy Hedgehog: Looking more like a baby toy than a dog toy, it is a popular toy for most puppies. It feels great on teething gums and has crinkling sounds that can excite your bulldog puppy. Tuffy Mega Boomerang: This is a soft toy that is made with strong fabric. No Stuffing Dog Toys: These dog toys are perfect for your new chewer. While you need to be careful of the squeaker coming loose, they have no stuffing that your bulldog puppy could eat. Fetching Toys Finally, I recommend that you get a few fetching for your bulldog puppy. Instead, only pull these toys out as a reward for him and for those play periods. Some great fetching toys are: KONG Puppy Flyer: A small frisbee, this is a great toy to get a young puppy playing fetch…or chase if he decides not to bring it back. West Paw Tizzi: This toy is great as it is durable and dishwasher safe for cleaning. And it bounces around when you chuck it, so your bulldog puppy will be extra excited playing with it. After all, grooming is very important and will keep your bulldog puppy nice and healthy. Grooming is integral for several reasons, including: Bonding: Grooming your bulldog puppy allows you to bond with him. He learns to accept being touched and that your touch is positive. This builds trust and it can be quite relaxing sitting and simply grooming your puppy. When you are grooming, your bulldog puppy is having his paws, mouth, face, ears and tail being touched. He will become socialized to this handling and will be better off for it. Health: Grooming keeps your bulldog puppy healthy, but it also gives you a chance to check him over and catch health problems quickly. When grooming, always look for unusual bumps, skin rashes or lumps. Please be sure to provide many chew toys to help with this transitional period. Cow hooves can be found at many pet stores and are recommended. Stay away from pig ears and cheap rawhide, and "greenies," as these can cause severe diarrhea, bloat, and are a choking hazard. For instance, keep an eye out for diarrhea if you change your pup's food. If your bulldog develops diarrhea then stop all food for 12 hours. If it persists for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian immediately to prevent dehydration. Puppies can dehydrate very rapidly so you need to take it seriously when diarrhea occurs. Dogs can pick up some unwanted guests: ticks, fleas, mites, lice, and intestinal worms. Your dog can be the perfect host for these pests if regular treatment for these nasty pests is not given. Your veterinarian is the best source of knowledge for the local bugs that bug the local dog population and how to prevent these pests. Heartworm is a widespread disease present spread by mosquitoes throughout most of the United States. There is a treatment for heartworm, but it is expensive and takes a toll physically on the dog and can take months to combat. This is especially important for dogs that spend a lot of time outside, that live on farms, or that hunt, as they are at increased risk of contracting this tick-borne disease. Puppies will generally have a first veterinary visit at the age of six weeks by the person who has the mother dog. The veterinarian will examine the puppies to make sure there are no hernias, heart, lung, or eye or ear problems in any of the pups. At 9 weeks, and then again at 12 weeks, the de-wormer and distemper vaccines will be repeated. Then these can be given once a year or on a schedule determined by you and your veterinarian. Lowell Ackerman. This vaccination is required by many communities. There can sometimes be severe penalties if your dog is not rabies vaccinated especially if the dog bites a person or another pet. As your dog ages, more frequent examinations will need to be given. Twice yearly examination will catch medical issues before they become big problems. Older dogs frequently suffer from arthritis and heart disease just like elderly humans. There are effective and safe treatments that can help your older dog live reasonably pain-free and pleasant golden years. It is important to spay females or neuter male your puppy. In addition to various health benefits for the dog decreased chances of certain tumors and infections , there is a big societal benefit in the decreased number of unwanted dogs. Microchipping is also encouraged in case your dog ever becomes lost. The inner ear part of the ear is normally white or darker colored, usually corresponding to the color of the dog's coat, so look for discoloring. The puppy's ears should also not smell nor have any discharge in the ear or on the flap. The ear should be free of debris, dirt, or parasites, like ticks or mites. Any of the following are abnormal: [9] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Scratching or pawing the ear. Shaking the head excessively. If in doubt, or if you suspect an ear infection, have your veterinarian look in the ear using an otoscope to examine the eardrum. Never stick a q-tip or similar type of product into the ear canal. You will not be able to see the entire ear canal and should not try to put anything down there. Never use human toothpaste on a dog; only use dental toothpaste made for dogs. The fluoride in human toothpaste is poisonous to dogs and can cause serious health problems. Place a little puppy toothpaste on your fingertip and let your puppy lick it off. The next day put it on your finger and rub it along the outer gums. Then try to put a little on a dog toothbrush, let the puppy lick it then run the toothbrush along the outer edges of the teeth and gums. Only the outer part against the cheeks needs to be brushed. Even with regular tooth brushing, dogs may need dental cleanings once in a while. Plaque and bacteria can build up under the gum line causing problems there or in the roots of the teeth. Just like with their human owners, regular mouth examinations by their doggy dentist should be done once a year. The English Bulldog — Quite a Chap! The English Bulldog can be expected to have certain traits: Affectionate, easygoing, and lovable Quiet—not much of a barker Good with kids and other pets An excellent guard dog, courageous and dependable Adaptable to a wide variety of living conditions Outgoing and friendly personality You may also these characteristics in your bully buddy: Can be gassy and drool a lot Makes a lot of snorting, snuffling, and wheezing noises, and she may snore Can become overweight easily if not exercised regularly Can be rambunctious and rowdy, especially as a puppy Sensitive, matures slowly Can be possessive of toys and food, tending to show dominance She is an intelligent and dependable companion that forms close human bonds. With early socialization and consistent leadership , she is a social and cheerful addition to any family. The modern Bulldog, with a heavy, thickset, low body and massive head, originated in England after the elimination of bull-baiting in .The Old English Bulldog was crossed with the Pug to create a more docile and affectionate family pet. The Bulldog retained its protective and fearless nature, but aggressive and ferocious tendencies were removed from the breed. Bulldogs serve as popular mascots, representing strength in the face of adversity for the US Marine Corps and more than 30 US Universities. Bulldogs are famous for their gentle nature, fondness of children, and clownish antics. The Bulldog is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Bulldog. By knowing about health concerns specific to Bulldogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Bulldogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Bulldogs. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your English Bulldog looking and feeling her best. And unfortunately, your Bulldog is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections Bulldogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Bulldogs. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Bulldog is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good time. This is convenient for you and easy for your friend. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Bulldogs Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Bulldogs. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! When Bulldog puppies are allowed to grow too quickly, the cartilage in their joints may not attach to the bone properly. This problem is known as osteochondritis dissecans or OCD. If this occurs, surgery may be required to fix the problem. Feed a large-breed puppy diet rather than an adult or a regular puppy diet. Weigh your puppy every three to four weeks. The cranial cruciate ligament is one of the four tough bands of tissue that hold each knee together. A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common injury in active dogs, which includes your English Bulldog. Usually surgical correction is done to stabilize the knee and help prevent crippling arthritis. Physical therapy and multimodal pain management are necessary to get the best outcome. Keeping him at the right weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and avoiding too much twisting of the knees like playing Frisbee are key in avoiding this painful injury. Spinal Deformities Bulldogs are more likely than other canines to be born with spinal deformities a condition called hemivertebrae , which may lead to spinal cord damage, instability, or disability. Unfortunately, Bulldogs can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside of the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs, and your Bulldog is more likely than other dogs to develop this painful condition. If untreated, these abnormal hairs can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain. Several treatment options are available, and the prognosis is good once the hairs have been permanently removed. Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea surface of the eyeball. This is an extremely irritating and painful condition that can ultimately lead to blindness. It can happen in any dog breed; however, your Bulldog is especially at risk for this heritable disorder. Surgical correction is usually successful if performed early. Dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS, is common in Bulldogs. The tear glands no longer produce enough tears to keep the eye moist, which results in sore, itchy eyes and infections. Symptoms include a thick discharge, squinting, pawing at the eye, or a dull, dry appearance of the eye. This is a painful condition; please call us immediately if you notice any of these signs. Dogs have a third eyelid that contains a gland that produces about one-third of the fluid that bathes the eye. If the gland is sore or swollen, it looks like a red blob in the corner of the eye. This condition is called cherry eye, and it can occur very suddenly in one or both eyes. If this happens to him, we may treat it with ointment first, but surgery is often the best option. Bladder or Kidney Stones There are a few different types of stones that can form in the kidney or in the bladder, and Bulldogs are more likely to develop them than other breeds. Call us immediately! Respiratory Distress Syndrome This disease, also known as brachycephalic syndrome, affects dogs with a short nose, like your Bulldog. As a consequence, the soft palate the soft part at the back of the roof of the mouth , is too long and hangs down into the airway. The nostrils are often too small, and sometimes the trachea, or windpipe, is narrow and undersized. All of these things lead to a narrow and obstructed airway. Many of these dogs can barely breathe! Watch for exercise intolerance, loud breathing, coughing, bluish gums, or fainting. With his short nose, he is also more likely to develop other problems, such as flatulence from excessive air intake, pneumonia from aspirating food, or heat stroke. In severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended. Bleeding Disorders There are several types of inherited bleeding disorders that occur in dogs. They range in severity from very mild to very severe. Many times a pet seems normal until a serious injury occurs or surgery is performed, and then severe bleeding can result. Reproductive Difficulties Breeds with a large head and small pelvis are more prone to difficulties during the birthing process. Her pelvis is just too small to pass puppies and a C-section is often required for her health and that of her puppies. If you are interested in breeding your English Bulldog, speak with us first. We can help you make an informed decision based on body conformation of both sire and dam. Heart Disease Bulldogs are prone to multiple types of heart disease , which can occur both early and later in life. Veterinary dental care and weight control go a long way in preventing heart disease. Multiple Skin Problems Your English Bulldog is susceptible to different kinds of skin infections and diseases. One of them is caused by yeast Malassezia dermatitis. When it infects the ears, it causes itching, redness, and an accumulation of brown waxy discharge. On the skin, it leads to greasy, hairless areas, especially on the neck and throat, with a characteristic odor. Another common skin disease called seborrhea can cause dry, flaky skin or greasy, oily skin. These diseases make your pet itchy and uncomfortable. The earlier you call to have his skin problems checked, the less likely it is that you will end up caring for an itchy, bald, smelly dog. Mange Demodex is a microscopic mite that lives in the hair follicles of dogs. All dogs have them. In mild cases, pet owners may notice a few dry, irritated, hairless lesions. These often occur on the face or feet and may or may not be itchy. Secondary skin infections may occur. Prompt veterinary care is important to keep the disease from getting out of hand. Many pets seem to outgrow the problem, while others require lifelong management. Laryngeal Paralysis Older Bulldogs may develop this disease, in which the vocal cords become paralyzed and hang down into the airway. Watch for noisy breathing, especially when exercising or in hot, humid weather. In severe cases a pet can collapse and have difficulty breathing. Mild cases can be managed with changes at home and possibly medication. Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your English Bulldog will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! Dental Abnormalities Teeth abnormalities are often genetically induced and are relatively common in dogs, especially in purebred dogs like your Bulldog. An overbite or underbite is called a malocclusion, or a bad bite. Oligodontia is a condition where only a few teeth are present. Misaligned teeth can also occur and cause lots of problems, but can usually be corrected with braces or extractions. Yes, dogs can get braces! Taking Care of Your Bulldog at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your English Bulldog live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She has low grooming needs. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. Her deep wrinkles need to be cleaned and dried often to prevent infections. As an adult she can have a tendency to be lazy, so you must ensure she receives adequate exercise by providing a daily walk. She is sensitive to temperature extremes; avoid any prolonged exposure and be very alert to the signs of heat stress. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help, and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Bulldog needs help. They are also a great way to feed aggressive eaters since they can only get a few bites of kibble at a time. As your puppy masters them, move on to harder puzzles. Avoid rawhide products and anything with parts that could break off. Here are a few of our favorites: Natural Antlers Whole or split is fine. They are expensive, but they will last forever. Bulldogs are prone to skin allergies; wash their towels, blankets, bedding, etc. Avoid Tide at all costs, it is the worst for bulldogs and allergies. Plus, we think Persil cleans better anyways. Persil Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent Baby Gates To keep your bulldog from getting into other rooms unsupervised, place baby gates around your home. You can use them to keep your dog away from stairs or dangerous places like basements or laundry rooms. We use these pressure-fitted gates, there is nothing to install, and they are easy to move around to different areas of the home. We then follow up with the FURminator. Regular use of these two brushes together dramatically reduces the shedding. A little goes a long way. Not only does it clean well, but it also soothes and relieves itchy, dry, and inflamed skin. Perfect for Bulldogs! It is an anti-itch cream and, if used daily, will prevent or remove tear stains. Use weekly to keep nails nice and short, this will also help prevent interdigital cysts. We find that the cordless is easier to maneuver and works better for us, but if you already have a corded one, that will work just fine. Be sure to use a grinding wheel attachment made for nails. ID tag, a collar, and leash Even though it is not possible for your bulldog puppy to venture outside until they have taken all the necessary vaccinations, it is important for you to make them familiar with a soft collar and leash for when you can take them outside. There are lots of options on the market for you to choose from and you will certainly get one matching the requirements of your furry friend. Just make sure when finding a leash and collar that they are bulldog friendly. Apart from this, you also need an identification tag for the puppy which will display the name plus the contact address of the pooch in the event that it becomes lost. There are great GPS-tracking ids and collars out there in the market these days. Chew stop We all know that pups bite quite a bit. Especially when they are teething, and they might damage furniture and clothing within your residence in no time at all. Fortunately, an anti-chew spray that comes with an unpleasant smell will prevent the mischievous animal from messing with your items. Combs, brushes, and nail clippers Brushing on a regular basis will allow your pet to remain neat and clean and prevents the buildup of hair that has shed. Toothbrush and toothpaste The dental condition of the pooch will play an essential role in keeping them in sound health. Use a dog-friendly toothbrush plus toothpaste for maintaining the oral health of your bulldog and make sure to brush his teeth at least once every day. Treatment for ticks, fleas, and worms Parasites such as ticks, fleas, and worms can lead to serious health issues to the puppies in the long run. Make use of an effective treatment for these harmful parasites to keep your furry pet free from ailments. Dog bed While bulldog puppies are growing, they tend to sleep for many hours. Make sure to find a comfy bed for the dog to ensure a peaceful sleep. There are many types of dog beds out there, and you will not have a tough time to find one for your adorable bulldog. We in fact have an entire post dedicated to them which can be found here. Crate or kennel A top-quality kennel or crate will be imperative depending on where the pup is going to sleep. Toys When the pup enters your house for the first time, it is natural for him to feel nervous and a little scared of his new surroundings. It is your duty to make him feel safe and at ease while stepping into your abode for the first time. Since it is the natural tendency of the pups to explore the surroundings using their mouth, this might involve lots of undesirable chewing on your items and belongings. Soft chew toys will allow the naughty animals to divert their minds preventing munching on your clothing, electric cords, and shoes. Appropriate play toys are a must if you always want to keep your bulldog in top mental health. Food and water bowls Your new bulldog pup will need to drink plenty of water during the day and he will consume his favorite snacks too. For this, you will need at least two bowls, once for water and one for food. Treats A lot of training teats will be necessary for the bulldog pup given that the initial few weeks are going to involve lots of lessons. You can reward your pooch with these treats when he or she listens to your commands and for good behavior. Vet-approved dog food Vets will recommend providing your pet with food items that will supply them with all the essential minerals and vitamins that they need for their development into a healthy adult canine. They will come in handy when you start toilet training too. There are great biodegradable options out there. Walking harness A well-designed lead and harness will allow the bulldog to run in a smooth and effortless manner. Care services that need to be lined up Owning a bulldog puppy is one of the most joyous experiences on earth. However, it is not an easy job to parent a new puppy. Below, we have provided a guide which will help you to care of your new family member in the best possible way. Find a good vet The first and foremost thing you need to do is to find an experienced vet for your bulldog. If you brought the pup from any shelter, feel free to ask for their advice too. Local dog groomers and walkers can also help you a great deal in this matter. Make the most of the initial visit to the vet Ask your vet for food recommendations, how frequently you should feed, and what portion size to offer your dog. Watch out for any early sign of illness During the initial few months, bulldog pups can suffer from illnesses that can creep up suddenly if not detected early. Below, are some symptoms that if you notice, you should contact your vet right away. Their massive, short-faced head and equally massive body are a stark contrast to their very gentle dispositions. They are also very resolute, calm, and dignified dogs. Their medium and compact size, combined with their large, projected jaws, make them appear powerful and strong. Aside from their wide and flat face, the extra layers of skin on their skull, forehead, and around the mouth are also distinguishing characteristics of bulldogs. They have a short coat, which comes in different shades: white, fawn, red, red brindle, pale yellow, piebald, or a combination of any of these, and they have naturally short and curled tails. Bulldogs make good companion dogs, and as they are known to be excellent with children, forming strong bonds with them, they make excellent family dogs. A bulldog enjoys spending time with its owner and being a part of their daily activities. While a bulldog is not a very demanding breed attention-wise, it should still not be left alone for long periods of time, as it may get restless and become destructive. A bulldog will be content just sitting or sleeping at your feet, as long as it has your company. Bulldogs have a unique intelligence — a bulldog does not simply strive to please its owner by immediately and eagerly obeying their every command. This seeming lack of obedience is often mistaken for a lack of intelligence by many people. However, a bulldog, is actually a very responsible dog with a lot of common sense. You could say that this breed has the tendency to think for itself rather than just blindly following orders. This trait is unique to bulldogs, and is what makes it appealing to some more knowledgeable dog owners. Bulldogs are not yappers, and really only bark when necessary; but on the other hand, because of their flat noses, they tend to snore loudly when they sleep. Make sure that this sort of noise is something you can tolerate before you decide to look for English bulldog puppies for sale! Being separated from its mother will also make the first few days a difficult experience for the puppy. Your puppy will be missing the company of its mother and siblings, and for this reason, will need the comfort of your company; make sure you can provide your puppy with the time and attention it needs during the first few days after you take it home, to help him adjust and settle in. Have a comfortable bed, or a crate with a blanket ready for your bulldog puppy; place an old blanket inside the crate so it will have something soft and warm to snuggle up against, to make it feel comfortable and secure right away. During the first few nights it may help your puppy sleep if you place a hot water-bottle and a ticking clock, securely wrapped in a blanket, in its bed. Kongs are extremely robust, and make great chew toys for bulldogs. Maintain this diet for a few days and then gradually switch to the food that you want to give it. Most commercial pet foods are nutritionally balanced to ensure your puppy gets the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development, and to maintain optimal overall health. Always have fresh water available. If you engage in a lot of physical activities outdoors and prefer having your dog with you, a bulldog may not be the ideal breed for you. Alternatively, you can just leave your pet at home and take it out for a short walk every day. A bulldog is actually happy just staying inside, and it is never a good idea to leave a bulldog alone outside for long periods, as they are prone to overheating due to their short flat noses. However, a bulldog does still require some time outdoors, as like any other dog, it will engage in destructive behavior if it is cooped up indoors for longer than 10 hours at a time. As they should also be socialized with other dogs, a walk to the local dog park will provide both physical and mental stimulation.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. As a dedicated Labrador parent, one of your primary responsibilities is ensuring your pup remains healthy and achieves all growth milestones based on his age. However, some of the most overwhelming factors to crack through are size and weight. So, is your Lab puppy too small for his age? Your Lab puppy might be too small if it weighs less than 12 lbs 5. Lab puppies generally weigh about 2 lbs 1 kg with every week of growth. If your puppy weighs a lot less than that, he may be too small for his age. If you're worried that your pup might be too small for his age, you're in the right place. In this article, I'll outline Lab puppies' size and weight facts to help you understand where your young canine friend stands. Keep reading! In this article How Much a Lab Puppy Should Weigh This is one of the most common concerns and one of the most challenging to address directly. This is because a puppy's weight and size may differ based on his gender, genetic composition, or underlying conditions. However, there's a trick that may help you determine your pup's weight range. In most cases, average puppies add about 2 lbs 1 kg with every week of growth. And just like the weight, Lab puppies have different sizes. You may notice a huge size variance in a litter of Lab puppies. Some may appear too big or too small for their age. Below are 3 factors that can affect a Lab puppy's size and weight. Genetic May Affect Size A canine's size is partially genetic. Therefore, a Lab puppy born of small parents may inherit the genes and appear smaller for his age. However, this isn't always the case because some small-parents puppies sometimes grow into huge dogs. So, it's possible to note a considerable size variance on puppies from the same litter. Diet Greatly Influences Weight A puppy's diet also has a lot to do with his size and weight. Poorly fed puppies may fail to grow properly. Thus they may be low in weight and small in size. When feeding puppies, it isn't always about the amount of food the pup consumes but rather the nutritional value. So, to be on the safe side, it's advisable to consult your vet on the right foods for your pup based on his age. Health Problems Can Inhibit Growth Puppies that have been ill or have underlying conditions may portray slow growth. Their size and weight may be small compared to healthy pups within the same age limit. However, you shouldn't worry about this because such puppies often catch up later after recovery. Note that this chart only gives a weight limit, and it doesn't mean your puppy should weigh precisely that. It's only meant to help you protect your pup's weight and easily point out when he's seriously under or overweight. Labrador Retriever Puppy Growth Chart and Development with Pictures Large breed dogs, like Labs, gain weight and grow rather rapidly in their first year. They also develop certain skills at approximately the same time. Lab puppies at this age are entirely dependent on their mother. They are born without teeth, vision, or hearing. The mother Lab will also stimulate them to eliminate and eat their waste to keep her nesting area clean. Most Lab puppies will have their eyes opened at 2 weeks of age, and their ears will begin to open around this time too. This period can be called the awakening of senses, as they are growing to be more conscious and inquisitive. Try to spend some time with each puppy daily, so they get used to being handled. They should not be removed from their litter for more than 10 minutes at a time as this could cause them to miss out on important life lessons. Mama dogs will teach her pups some discipline and dogs that are taken from their mom before this age often suffers from behavioral issues. You should handle them often and can begin basic training. Treat your puppy gently, with no harsh discipline. Your 8-week-old Lab puppy will be able to start sleeping through the night and have better control over its bowel movements. Potty training can be introduced at this age, but you should avoid bringing them to crowded places. Most puppies get their first vaccination before heading to their new homes. You should keep your new puppy away from other dogs until they complete their vaccinations to prevent them from contracting infectious diseases like distemper or parvovirus. Lab puppies eating their dog food At 2 months, Lab puppies should be fed 4 small meals a day. Knowing how much to feed them is key. Your Lab puppy will begin to test you in order to figure out what their position is in the family. Labrador Retriever puppies at 3 months might ignore commands they are familiar with. Some dogs might start nipping. To combat this, direct them to chew appropriate toys instead. Be patient with them and keep reinforcing positive behavior because they will grow out of it soon enough. They are still establishing their role in the pack and might assert their dominance over little children or pets. You can start incorporating other activities like obedience or agility to divert their attention and help them understand their role in the family better. Some dogs will go through another fearful stage at this age. You can help them through it by desensitizing them and being kind and understanding. They are still puppies at this age, after all. They should not be forced to face their fears in hopes they will get used to it. Appropriate exposure with lots of praise, attention, and treats will do the trick. They will have grown into the dog they are meant to be and will have a consistent personality. They should also have settled into a routine and know their place in the family. Following a UK study, Labs grow into their adult weight by their 1-year-old birthday. Mentally, Labradors will stay a puppy till they are 2 or 3 years old, but some never really do grow up. When Do Labs Stop Growing? Lab puppies generally gain 2 lbs 1 kg a week from birth until they are 6 months old. After that, their weight gain tapers off slowly. Most people think that dogs mature at the same age, but small dogs like a Terrier or a Pomeranian might reach adulthood at 9 months of age whereas a Great Dane might fully mature at 3 years of age. It has been noted that they reach their full height at 1 year of age, and their adult weight at 2 years of age. How to weigh a Labrador dog? Weighing your dog is a good way to keep track of its growth. A less strenuous and stressful way to weigh your dog would be to buy a weighing scale for dogs and weigh them regularly. You can incorporate this into your dog training and reward them every time they stay still on a scale. There are reasonably priced pet scales on Amazon but if you do not have a budget for a dog weighing machine, you can get your dog weighed at the vet. This is because muscle weighs more than fat. A chubby-looking Labrador might have the same weight as a lean and strong Lab. Testing Physical Appearance There is a system called BCS or Body Condition Scoring that allows owners and health providers to assess whether their dog is at a healthy weight from a glance. There are 9 levels, with the 1st level representing extreme emaciation, level 5 being optimally fit, and level 9 being life-threateningly obese. However, if they are outside of that spectrum, you might want to consider seeing a specialist as your dog might have some underlying health issues. It can also cause lots of health problems such as joint problems, respiratory or heart diseases, and even cancer. The bad news is that Labradors are prone to obesity due to their genetics. A large portion of the Labrador population has a malfunctioning POMC gene that stops them from being full. Even without the condition, Labs are notoriously greedy! Look at Midnight eating in her dreams: Hyperthyroidism and Insulinoma are disorders that can cause unexplainable weight gain. How to help your Labrador achieve a healthy weight? If they are suffering from certain disorders, you will need to treat them first. If they are simply being fed too much, remove any excess calories from their diet by cutting down treats including table scraps! You can also encourage them to move more through exercise, play, or work. Being too thin is also unhealthy, especially if your puppy is still growing. Weight loss or not being able to gain weight can be caused by worms, illness, or a lack of calories. Active dogs will need to be fed more than those that lead sedentary lifestyles. What you can do is increase their intake and monitor their growth rate. Another commonly asked question is when to fix their male or female Labradors. The general consensus is that you should fix your dog around 6 months, but there are new studies to suggest that early neutering might create more problems for your dog. Another specialized study suggests pet owners to neuter or spay after 37 weeks. This prevents excessive growth that can aggravate hip or joint problems. Will my Lab still grow after being neutered? Depending on when your dog is neutered. If it is neutered after sexual maturity, it will most likely have already reached its adult size and will not grow any taller. However, most neutered pets gain weight much more easily due to a decrease in sex hormones. This will cause their metabolic rate to slow down so you should adjust their diet accordingly. Differences between variations of Labrador Retrievers English Labs are show dogs that are bred to be more heavyset. Therefore, they can be slightly on the heavy side. As for American or working dogs, they are generally more athletic and lighter. Gender also plays a role in their weight, with females nearing the lighter end of the spectrum and males being on the heavier side. Chocolate Labs and White Labs are usually bred for the show ring. It is entirely possible to have an English Fox Red and vice versa for all other colors. Leading a healthy lifestyle will keep your pup healthy. Further reading: Additional puppy growth chart guides. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. But, any weight gain after 12 months should be negligible generally. Larger Labs may take up to 18 months to fill out their chests. Your Lab is still growing and gaining muscle to attain adult size if they are younger than a year old. It is a typical puppy characteristic. If their paws appear overly large compared to their legs and body, they are still growing. Usually, huge-pawed puppies grow into large canines. Genetics Genetics is the central aspect affecting how big your Labrador will grow. More minor parents will result in more miniature puppies. Additionally, there are various varieties of Labradors. No matter how much or what he eats, all labs tend to grow to their height and length. When do Labradors stop growing? Your puppy should stop growing physically by the time it turns one, yet, this is not always the case. Despite not growing much height in feet between their first and second birthdays, labs continue to gain weight. It is crucial to keep an eye on their eating habits through a food chart to ensure they do not become overweight. But much of this is up to the dog, so make sure he continues to grow his height by age normally. If properly trained, they are mentally past the puppyhood stage of pushing the envelope and disobeying by the end of their first year. Your Lab should be pleasant, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday until they reach adulthood if you have been diligent in your training up to this point. But, if your dog is gaining weight quickly or not gaining enough, there may be more severe problems to consider. The size of your Lab also depends on inheritance. If your Lab has small parents, they would likely be smaller than average. The same may apply to Labs that are heavier than usual; if their parents are enormous, they will probably be as well. Keep in mind that overweight Labs could also result from inconsistent food and exercise routines, overfeeding, or a mix of the two. Remember that each dog is unique, and their size and weight range can vary significantly based on their particular genetics. Related Posts. Labrador puppy weight. It can be hard to know what the right weight is for your specific pup. An American Lab is likely to weigh less than an English Lab in general, but not always! How much do Labs weigh in general? Male Labradors weigh between 60lbs and 80lbs, while females weigh in at between 55lbs and 75lbs. But many healthy Labradors fall outside these averages. As you can see, there is quite a range! Labrador Puppy Weight Lots of our readers want to know how much should my Labrador weigh at this age or that age. Labrador puppies are growing fast, and their weight is constantly changing. We used the data from our forum to create the Lab weight chart below. If you want a rough idea of how much your pup should weigh at different stages of their young life, just compare them to this chart and see how they match up. But remember, average Labrador weight is not totally straight forward… Average Labrador Weight Labradors come in a wide variety of sizes. So average Labrador Retriever weight figures can be misleading. As a very rough guide an adult female Labrador might weigh between 55 and 70lbs. An adult male Lab will weigh 65 — 80lbs. Female Lab weight will on average be lower than male Lab weight, but as you can see there is a considerable cross over. But Labradors also come in a couple of different types, and his type will have an impact upon his ideal Labrador weight. English Labs bred from show lines are likely to be at the upper end of the scale. You can expect English Lab weight to be around 60 — 70 lbs for a female and 70 — 80 lbs for a male. Some of our chunkier, show bred Labs can be a good twenty pounds or more heavier than their field bred cousins, without necessarily being overweight. Whereas the American Lab who is field bred is likely to be at the lower end of average. Volume for volume, muscle weighs more. So it is worth bearing in mind, that a very fit dog will have more muscle and may weigh more than an unfit dog of similar dimensions. Black Lab Weight In theory there should be no difference in weight between Labradors of different colors. Black Labrador weight for an English black Lab will probably be at the higher end of the range, for an American black Lab it will likely be lower. Black Labs are frequently found in both these categories, but some Lab colors differ. For example the chocolates. Chocolate Lab Weight Chocolate Labs are more likely to be show bred than field bred. English Labs weigh more than American Labs in general, and may therefore be at the higher end of average when it comes to weight. This is because yellow Labs are commonly found in both categories. White Labs are more likely to be English Labs, and will therefore probably be at the heavier end of the scale. Fox red Labs are normally American Labs, and will often be thinner in build and therefore lighter in weight. The way to effectively judge whether your Lab is at an ideal weight is not through the scales. It is by feel and appearance. You should not be able to see ribs, but if you press firmly along his sides you should just be able to feel your fingers bumping along them. But in most cases it really is not necessary to weigh your puppy every day, or even every week! Any more than you would weigh your three year old child on a daily or even weekly basis. There are however, some exceptions. Very thin puppies Occasionally we have people post up about puppies that are desperately underweight and clearly failing to thrive. Most of these comments come from people that have purchased puppies that are not ready to leave their mothers, and should not have been sold by the breeder. Some of these puppies are as young as three weeks old. If you have inadvertently been sucked into this horrible trade in underage puppies, do contact a vet for help with feeding your puppy, as a matter of urgency. If you are concerned that your puppy might be seriously underweight, again, your vet is the first port of call. As a very rough guide, many Labrador puppies will weigh around a kilo for every week of their lives. So you would expect a ten week puppy to weigh something in the region of ten kilos or around twenty-two pounds. A twenty percent variation around this would be fairly normal. If your puppy falls outside this variation he may still be perfectly healthy, but if you are inexperienced, a check with the vet is a good way to put your mind at rest. Should I Weigh My Dog? You may need to weigh your dog if he needs medical treatment. Determining the appropriate dose of some drugs requires that we know the exact weight of the patient. But in this case your veterinarian will probably do it for you at their check-ups and assessments. The main reasons to weigh a dog are loss or gain. Trying to put weight on a very thin puppy? You may want to check your progress with regular weigh-ins for a while to make sure they are sufficiently gaining weight. Trying to help your adult Labrador weight decrease? Checking their weight each week will help you to know that you are succeeding, along with visual checks. How to weigh a dog If you need to weigh a puppy, and he is small enough to hold in your arms, you can do this at home. Just weigh yourself on the bathroom scales without him, then weigh yourself again whilst holding the dog, and subtract the first weight from the second. This is accurate enough for most purposes. Larger dogs will need to be weighed on purpose built scales. Most vet surgeries have one in the waiting room, and some pet stores have them too. Really tiny dogs can be weighed accurately on a good sized set of kitchen scales. For once, this is a situation where appearances really do count. Try to get into the habit of looking at your dog objectively and of avoiding comparing with other dogs, many of whom will be overweight. You may find that some other dog owners will tell you your nice slim Labrador is actually too thin. This happens a lot, largely because people are simply getting used to so many dogs being overweight, including some of those receiving the highest accolades in our show rings. Again, if you are worried, check with your vet, but the chances are if someone is telling you this that actually your dog is healthy, and it is really their dog who is overweight. Treats What should a healthy Labrador weigh ideally? A healthy Labrador should have a weight range of 55 to 80 pounds. This is KG in the UK. For example, a young male Labrador will typically weigh more than an adult female. Similarly, a taller dog will usually weigh more than a shorter one. While there is some variation within the breed, Labs that fall outside of the healthy weight range are more susceptible to health problems. For instance, obese Labs are more likely to develop joint problems, while underweight dogs may have difficulty regulating their body temperature. As such, it is important to ensure that your Labrador maintains healthy poundage. Free Labrador weight chart A Labrador body mass chart can be an extremely useful tool for pet owners. It can also help you spot health problems early on, and get your dog to the vet for treatment. There are a number of different weight charts available online like the one below, and they are usually free to download. If you have a Labrador, or are thinking about getting one, then a weight chart is definitely something that you should consider looking at like the one below. Standard Labradors weigh between 55 and 80 pounds in line with the chart above, while miniature Labradors weigh between 30 and 50 pounds. Labrador puppies typically weigh between 2 and 4 pounds at birth and this changes as they age. For the first few weeks of life, Labradors gain weight rapidly, doubling their birth weight by two weeks of age. From there, they continue to gain weight steadily until they reach adulthood. The average Labrador reaches its full adult weight by 18 months of age. However, smaller or larger individuals may take longer to reach their full size. For example, a standard Labrador that weighs 70 pounds at 18 months old may continue to fill out and reach 75 or even 80 pounds as an adult. On the other hand, a miniature Labrador that only weighs 45 pounds at 18 months old is unlikely to gain any more body fat or weight. Labrador weights can vary significantly from one individual to the next, but this breed generally maintains a fairly consistent size throughout its life. You can use the weight chart above as your Lab increases in age. Labrador puppy weight Labrador puppies are born small, but they grow quickly. On average, Labrador puppies will double their birth weight by one week old. They will triple their birth weight by two weeks old. By the time they are six weeks old, Labrador puppies will typically be about half of their adult heaviness. Then you can use the weight chart above to see how well your adult Labrador is in line. After six weeks, their growth rate will begin to slow down, but they will continue to put on weight until they reach adulthood at around one year old. The average adult Labrador weighs anywhere from 55 to 80 pounds, although some Labrador mixes may be larger or smaller. Labrador puppies typically reach their full adult size between 12 and 18 months old. However, they may continue to fill out and fill in until they are two years old. Some Labs may even continue to grow until they are three years old! A 6-month old Labrador should weigh in at around 18 to 23 kg UK , depending on the gender and build of the dog. Generally, male Labs will be on the higher end of that weight range, while females will be on the lower end. If your dog is significantly under or overweight, it may be indicative of a health problem and you should consult with your veterinarian. Labs are known for being active and energetic dogs, so make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and playtime to avoid the buildup of too much fat. An adult Labrador usually weighs between 25 and 30 kg, so your pup still has some growing to do! In conclusion While the average weight of a full-grown labrador retriever is around 55 pounds, there is significant variation among individual dogs. Some labradors will weigh as little as 40 pounds, while others may reach 70 pounds or more. The size of a labrador also depends on factors such as gender and whether the dog is spayed or neutered. In general, male labradors are larger than females, and intact dogs tend to be heavier and have more fat than those that have been spayed or neutered. See how to tell if your dog is fat for more information if you are worried. For example, a labrador that eats a lot of high-calorie food may be overweight, even if it is not particularly large for its breed. Ultimately, the best way to determine whether a labrador is at a healthy weight is to consult with a veterinarian who has special scales for measuring how heavy a dog is. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Unless your vet advises otherwise, you should try and keep your dog in the weight-range typical for his or her breed and gender. By analyzing thousands of data points, we created the real-life Labrador Retriever weight distribution chart. For a typical female, the weight ranges from .That is, .The chart presents the percentage of the population that falls in a specific range. You can see trends and identify any problems. You can set up the normal weight range for your pet and log different measurements over time. Monitor the weight of your pet Download the 11pets: Pet Care app now and start monitoring the weight of your Labrador Retriever. Download the 11pets app now We have included a tutorial that shows every step of the weight tracking process. More information from experts of your Labrador Retriever Care guide for the hygiene of your Labrador Retriever In our blog you can also find a care guide for the hygiene of your Labrador Retriever developed by a group of experts. It explains how often you should bath your dog, trim its nails, clear its ears etc. Thanks to this post you will understand better the origins of the breed, its character and its maintenance needs. Most importantly, you will find tips about its training.

One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. I've photographed many families along with their beloved dog, often a Golden. I've had numerous Golden Retrievers in my training classes over the years, whether they be reds, English Cremes or the beautiful blonde that we so typically think of when we think of a Golden Retriever. Goldens hail from Scotland originally and are known as a hard-working breed, often employed as service animals and therapy dogs. They're also known for their voracious appetites, young-at-heart personalities and their penchant for carrying things in their mouths particularly when excited. Goldens are intelligent, athletic dogs, and are exceptional competitors in dog sports like obedience, agility, dock diving and more. Golden Retrievers gorgeous coats and perennially smiling face make them a dream to photograph, especially during their little butterball puppy stage. When Moana's that's "mow-ah-nah" dog mom contacted me for cute little puppy pics, of course I said "Yes" right after I squealed with delight and we quickly secured a session on the calendar before she got any bigger! The sun was shining, the flowers were in bloom and Moana romped and played and we caught it all. At the viewing and ordering appointment, Brenda had a hard time narrowing down her favorites because Moana's just that cute, but we eventually got there. She decided on ordering two plush blankets one for her and one for Moana's bed along with a digital negative package which is presented in a handmade reclaimed barn wood box with a metal print on the cover and a 5x7 print of each image inside along with a USB drive with all the high resolution digital image files. Doggy Daddy: Tucker I was recently contacted by the Creed family to take their family portraits and they requested that I take a few pet portraits of their very special family member, Tucker. It was only later when Moana's mom shared her Christmas mini session photo of Moana with them see below , that the Creeds asked if those were taken by Penny Whistle Photography. Brenda contacted me afterward to say "You just photographed Moana's daddy". Small world indeed and now I know where Moana gets her good looks! Tracy Allard of Penny Whistle Photography is a Certified Professional Photographer with the organization Professional Photographers of America; a designation held by fewer than 2, photographers nationwide and a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry and professionalism. Tracy offers special services to local Dallas - Fort Worth dog and cat breeders, creating unique images for their websites, social media and marketing purposes. Contact her to find out more about this offering.

Some of these you can help prevent, while others are out of your immediate control. If your GSD carries the genes for ears that lie down, instead of standing erect, then more than likely they will have floppy ears. This means they may have ears that never stand up and are floppy for life. Breeding Some breeders choose to pair parents that both have large, erect ears. And some buyers and owners prefer this larger style of ears for show or aesthetic purposes. But, there is some theory that breeding a German Shepherd with larger and larger ears might contribute to ears that stay flopped over. Always see the parents of the puppy you buy from the breeder on the premises to see their appearance. Physical Damage or Accidents Puppies are active and mischievous and can get into plenty of trouble. This includes physical damage or accidents that have the cartilage or muscles in their ears. If this happens their ears may suffer long-term damage and not stand up naturally on their own. So watch out for a rough play that might lead to ear damage. And, if your pup has been in an accident that hurt their ears, take them immediately to the vets. Improper and Poor Nutrition German Shepherds need balanced nutrition during crucial growing stages, including vitamins and minerals that aid in cartilage and muscle development of their ears. You should ensure your dog gets the right nutrition from the start to avoid any issues. Along with Vitamin D, calcium helps strengthen the cartilage to aid in building a strong foundation for the ears to stand up later. Neglecting Ear Cleaning Puppies still need ear cleaning when dirt and build-up are overly present. Dirty ears that become neglected can inhibit proper growth and cause discomfort for your dog, causing them to excessively scratch their ears which can cause damage. This could cause them more harm! Instead, wipe away the dirt from the skin of the ear with a warm, damp washcloth or use special ear cleaning wipes. A dog with one floppy ear and one ear upright is totally normal. Occasionally, your German Shepherd might have one floppy ear and one ear standing upright. If they are a small puppy then they are most likely growing and the one ear down still needs time to go upright naturally. These are some of the best techniques that will help their ears to stand up. They only need to sit inside the ear enough to support cartilage growth. Make sure you check for any creases or folds in their ears before moving on to the next step. Repeat in the other ear. Make a Popsicle Support Now, take the popsicle sticks and place them at the top of the foam rollers both ears should have foam rollers in them at this point. You might need another pair of hands to help with this, so ask your family or friends to help. Take the self-adhering waterproof tape and place a medium-size piece across and around the two foam rollers and popsicle sticks. This ensures even and symmetrical growth. Make a bridge across their ears instead. If your German Shepherd puppy is 9 months old and their ears still flop over, please see your vet for further assistance. When in doubt, get your vet to show you what to do for their ears. Your puppy might become annoyed with the tape on their ears, so they may need close supervision and even some distraction during the taping process. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a German Shepherd that has floppy ears and putting them at risk to have any unnecessary surgery to get their ears to stand up can cause them pain. Speak to your vet about the side effects and pain associated with ear implants. You can help prevent floppy ears in your dog by taking the appropriate steps to keep them healthy. The top ways to help a GSD with floppy ears include: 1. Feed them a high-quality food Giving your dog the proper nutrition for optimum growth is a necessity, especially when they are puppies and growing rapidly. Choose a puppy food with the correct ratio of nutrients and vitamins to ensure they get the correct building blocks for development. When you choose to give them treats, pick ones from this list of the best healthy dog treats for German Shepherd puppies. Provide them with the proper chew toys Chewing helps to strengthen the muscles that surround the ears. Or worse… Injure them. Learn to play and discipline a German Shepherd puppy the right way to avoid accidental ear injuries or damage. German Shepherds with ears that are floppy are a joy to own, no matter their age! Floppy ears are adorable and give your dog even more character. Go on, and find out what makes your companion the happiest dog on the planet! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. It commonly occurs anywhere from eight weeks to six months. So, any German Shepherd parent would know that these adorable dogs have floppy ears when they are just puppies. However, stronger cartilage will be developed as you give them the proper nutrients. It might mostly occur as a response to your call or noise in the surrounding area. It can be a result of poor nutrition or slow development. Your German Shepherd needs abundant vitamin D, calcium, and protein. Lacking these nutrients in their diet will result in weak cartilage. Switch to better food or visit the vet for a checkup. They are still incredibly cute, anyway! If you want to ensure that you have a pooch with perky ears, make sure to look for parents with standing ears. Do all German Shepherd ears stand up? Even if you have already, you can know whether your pooch will have floppy or perky ears when it grows. It can compromise their health and adversely affect their growth, including strengthening the cartilage. Regular checkups and fecal exams can help prevent or abate that problem. Your vet can give your dog deworming medicines to see that your growing furry friend is free from parasites. Any traumatic injury to the ears can cause permanent damage and prevent the ears from growing strong enough to stand. It can be caused by a child pulling its ears and rough play among its littermates. Regularly monitor your pup and keep anyone from playing with its ears when they are in its developmental stage. But there are things you can do to help it get strong and healthy ears. These steps will also protect the ears from possible damage. Get high-quality food for your puppy to boost their development. Cheap foods usually have more fillers that contain negligible nutrients. Keep the puppy away and safe from other puppies that play bite with their ears. Educate your children and everyone else at home on how to handle the puppy carefully and gently. Giving your puppy chew toys will give their head, jaw, and surrounding muscles some exercise. It can lead to better ear development. Make sure to buy durable ones, as German Shepherd pups are stronger than you think! Clean their ears gently if you notice dirt. Keep your dog happy! A happy dog is a healthy dog. It will have fewer or no health problems if you keep the dog fit. Using the tape too early or during its growing stage can harm its natural development. However, the 7th to 8th month might be a little too late. But that may not be true for all, as some German Shepherds are just built differently. Their looks come second when you experience how good of a companion they can make. But the young ones carry cute floppy ears that eventually stand up. Some take longer. Remember that floppy ears do not affect their health negatively. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Aug 18, Share German Shepherds have a distinctive look that includes alert, erect ears. For most pups, the ear cartilage begins to harden around week 20, or when the pup is finished teething. At that point, it can take up to 20 weeks for the ears to stand up fully. This can vary by the individual, however. Like human ears, dog ears are made of cartilage. As they grow and gain nutrition, German Shepherds develop stronger and stronger cartilage to support those ears. Typically, puppies at weeks will have floppy ears that occasionally stand up but quickly fall back down. Around week 20, or 5 months, your pup is done teething and its ears will begin to harden and stand. Your vet may have some suggestions to help the process along. If your pup reaches 8 months and still has floppy ears, the chance of them standing on their own is slim. Some breeders try to breed for larger ears, leading to ears that are too heavy to stand up. If strong, alert ears are important to you, be sure to look for a pup with parents that have erect ears. If the ears sustain trauma during that time, it can cause permanent damage to the cartilage. If your puppy gets parasites, it can impact healthy development, which includes the hardening of its ear cartilage. Be sure to take your puppy to the vet regularly and have routine fecal exams to check for worms and other parasites. Your vet can recommend an appropriate deworming protocol for your growing puppy and treat parasites if they occur. However, if you want your puppy to have strong, alert ears, you can help the process along in a number of ways. In an effort to move ear development along, some owners will add supplements like calcium. Chew toys are also good for teething and keeping your puppy occupied. German Shepherds are strong, even as pups, so be sure to choose solid, durable chew toys that are safe and appropriate for your puppy. It should only be used as a last resort, however. If you use tape too early, it can hinder natural development. That said, if you wait until the seventh or eighth month, it may be too late to help. Glue the ends of the popsicle stick to the tape on both ears, horizontally. Once a week, remove the popsicle stick, foam, and tape. If the ears stand on their own, leave them. Related Reads:. Bright eyes, strong profiles, and of course, those perky, attentive ears! When you first bring your German Shepherd puppy home, its ears will probably be floppy and droopy — at times, those ears may try to make a stand, only to fall back down again. What gives!? As your German Shepherd grows and gets the right nutrition among other things , the cartilage gets stronger and stronger. And voila — straight, pointy German Shepherd ears! But is it really that simple? Sometimes, yes. Sometimes, no. German Shepherd puppy ears can be unpredictable! The key is to be patient and give those ears time to develop on their own before stepping in. Those ears should perk back up after teething is over. If you want to learn more about the timing of teething and what to look for, check out this article on German Shepherd puppy teething. When went to visit my German Shepherd, Allie pictured above at 7 weeks old , her ears were floppy and undeniably precious. I brought Allie home at 8 weeks, and those ears still had their ups and downs, but by 10 weeks old, her ears were up permanently. So, the key is to catch it in time. This flip-floppy stage is completely normal. Genetics can also come into play when some breeders try to breed specifically for German Shepherds with larger ears. As a result, those big, oversized, heavy ears may be too much to stand up. If pointy, perky ears are important to you, then choose your breeder and puppy carefully. Make sure to check out the parents — how do their ears look? Any significant trauma to the ears during this time can cause permanent damage — which may also cause droopy ears. Try to have everyone keep their hands off those adorable ears as much as possible. Parasites: Yuck. Puppies need chew toys, as it exercises their jaw and their head and neck muscles. Those muscles are important for perky puppy ears. So, let your puppy chew, chew, and chew on the right things of course. If you need some ideas for durable dog toys that can withstand those chomping jaws, then check out this article for my picks of the best tough German Shepherd chew toys. Stick to a high-quality, natural diet instead. Cottage cheese and yogurt both have plenty of calcium without overdoing it , and chicken feet are a natural source of glucosamine, which helps strengthen cartilage. Give those ears time to develop on their own before you resort to taping. At the end of the article are some sources that go over common methods of taping. Note: There are several options that you can use for this — there are even foam dog ear forms. Thin, white surgical tape that tears easily. A 2-inch wide tape works well, and you can also get this at Walmart, CVS, or somewhere similar. Note: Do NOT use duct tape or electrical tape — these will do way more harm than good! An unsharpened pencil or popsicle stick. Adhesive — either skin bond adhesive or eyelash glue are good choices. Give those ears plenty of time to develop and get stronger before taking action. How old was your German Shepherd puppy when its ears finally stood up? Let me know below! I get a lot of emails about taping German Shepherd puppy ears. The majority of these emails come from people who are jumping the gun and worrying too much. By that, I mean their pups are 3 or 4 months old and they are starting to panic because their puppy's ears are not standing. I tell these people that they need patience, they need to wait until their pup has finished teething. I caution these people not to jump the gun and tape the dog's ears too early or in the wrong way. I know people who have screwed their dog's ears up for life by doing this. I have had puppy customers who go ballistic on me and panic. So I issue a word of caution here. With that said, the other side of the spectrum of taping ears is something that many people do not take seriously until it's too late. When ears are taped at 7 and 8 months, there is very little chance of it working. This is an unfortunate fact of life. German Shepherd puppy ears can come up between 8 weeks and 6 months. If they are not up when the dog is through teething this varies from dog to dog but in general between 16 weeks and 20 weeks of age , I tell my puppy customers to get very interested in their ears. While it's not time to panic, it is time to sit up and take notice. The first thing to do is make sure that your puppy is in good health. This means no intestinal parasites. Take a stool sample to your vet to have it analyzed. It's also important to make sure the pup is getting good quality food. We feed and recommend a raw diet but if you do feed a commercial diet, I strongly recommend researching all the options available and feeding the highest-quality food you can afford. View our list of all-natural kibble alternatives. In fact, a lot of times, a pup will have both ears up and all of a sudden, they will come back down when the pup starts to teeth. Many owners panic when this happens. But not to worry, I have never seen a pup whose ears did not go back up when this happens. If a pup does not have his ears up by 5 months, I strongly recommend that you get involved with taping your dog's ears. Use the thin white surgical tape the kind that's paper-thin and tears easily. The 3M Micropore tape, 2" wide, works well. I like to use women's hair rollers. Take the plastic out of them and just use the foam. Wrap the ear around the foam and tape them into a tight roll. In a vertical position. Take a popsicle stick and attach it to the top part of both ears. In a horizontal position. The pup is going to tear the tape or stick off the ears several times. The key is to continue to re-tape the ears. Sooner or later, the pup will forget the tape and ignore it. About once a week, take the tape off and see if the ears will stand on their own. Continue to re-tape until the ears stand. If the ears are not up by 7 or 8 months, they are not going to come up. The ears should look like this once taped. The same dog with ears now up. I have seen ears that did not stand, which in my opinion would have stood had they been taped. So this process is not something to take lightly. I also need to say that many ears will be a little weak right after taping but with time, they will strengthen. So when an ear does not stand perfectly after taping don't panic. Just have patience and see what happens. You will really not have an idea exactly what you have until the pup is 12 months old. When ears do not stand, there are ear implants that can be surgically added. I have no experience with this and do not know anything about them. If you are unlucky enough to have a dog whose ears will not stand, I would point you toward a vet that has some experience in this area. I don't think it's something that normal small animal vets know how to do well. In my opinion, too young to tape. The material to use to tape German Shepherd Ears The pup with its ears taped I prefer taping German Shepherd Dogs ears after the dog has finished teething. This usually means the dog is older than 4 - 6 months. Maybe waiting another month would have been a better idea for this puppy.