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Feeding Your Golden Feeding Your Golden With the wide array of foods available today, it can be hard to make a good choice of what to feed your golden. Goldens are particularly sensitive to dietary concerns, and feeding them a high quality diet can help boost their health and immune system. Feeding a high quality food is not necessarily more expensive. Price is misleading: cheaper foods require more volume to be fed, up to several cups at each meal. With the wide array of better foods available today, you can make a smart choice of what to feed your golden. A golden will normally eat about two cups of premium food per day. It can be adjusted a little more or less based on activity level and metabolism. Goldens are prone to skin problems, and a poor quality diet will cause skin problems which translates into costly veterinarian bills. You will need to go to the pet store to purchase your food. Grocery store brands do not offer the nutrition goldens need for good health. Do not be persuaded by fancy advertising. Many commonly hyped foods are not high quality and maybe lacking the necessary nutritional value for your dog. For example, Grain Free foods may play a major part in taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers and other large breed dogs. This deficiency can cause serious heart problems for your dog see Taurine and Grain Free information on this web page. Here are some guidelines: Look for food free of chemical preservatives. Some of these additives are suspected of causing cancer. Look for food preserved with Tocopherols Vitamins C and E as well as rosemary and other herbs. Make sure you have several months before this date. Frequent stores where there is a good turnover of food so you get a fresh bag. Always store dog food in a tight airtight container in a cool, dry place. If you only have one dog, consider buying pound bags instead of pounds bags so the food is fresher. Look for a food that has some form of meat as the first ingredient — such as lamb, chicken, or turkey. Avoid foods that have grain as the first ingredient. Also look for multiple meat proteins in the first seven ingredients. Protein from multiple sources is generally viewed as being beneficial such as lamb, chicken and fish , unless your dog is allergic to certain proteins. Dog food companies sometimes list several types of grains in the first seven ingredients. Beware of this — your dog needs animal protein in his diet! These are the intestines of the animal including what is in the intestines!! Most by-products are not desirable. By-products normally contain beaks, feet, feathers, heads and other slaughterhouse wastes — not the most nutritious part of the animal. Avoid foods that have sugars or artificial colors or flavors or a lot of added salt. Semi-moist dog foods are the worst — they usually are loaded with artificial colors and sugars. Added vitamins and minerals are beneficial only when applied after the baking process, because heat destroys vitamins. The best foods are made up of ingredients that would be suitable for human consumption. Most dog foods contain meat products that are not fit for human consumption. They can include meat from diseased livestock, condemned material from slaughterhouses such as tumors cut away from meat , and as horrible as it sounds, some pet foods include euthanized pets sold to rendering plants and even road kill. Is it any wonder why so many dogs die from cancer when they are being fed meat from these sources? Grains — many dog foods will contain some grains, for example, brown rice, barley, corn, wheat, etc. We have found that some goldens in our rescue program generally do poorly on a food that contains corn or soy. Many goldens are allergic to corn or wheat. So if your golden starts getting a lot of hot spots or skin problems — check his food. There is a big difference in quality of grain products. Look for whole rice or brown rice in the ingredients; white rice and ground brewers rice are much lower in nutrients than whole or brown rice. Often pet food companies take the sweepings off the mill floor and put it in pet food. Look for whole grains instead such as oatmeal, brown rice, barley, or whole oats. Grain Free foods. Grain Free foods have become increasingly available as food companies try to offer foods that are easier to digest with lower levels of complex carbohydrates and grains. One misconception is that grain free dog food is also low-carb, however, vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, green peas and tapioca often replace the grains in grain-free dog foods, especially in kibble foods, making them as high or higher in carbohydrates than grain-based dog foods. Studies have shown peas, beans, pea starch, legumes, potatoes and sweet potatoes that have replaced the grains in dog foods block the function of taurine. Taurine, a sulfuric acid, is essential for healthy cardiovascular function in Golden Retrievers. If left untreated, taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers can cause dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , congestive heart failure and possibly death. Read all the ingredients in the food which should include taurine and check with your veterinarian before selecting or feeding any grain free food to your dog. Detailed information on dog food ingredients and taurine can be found on this web page under Taurine and Grain Free information and at: Diet Associated Heart Disease Treats — beware of many dog treats out there. They are filled with sugars, preservatives and artificial colors. Try buying biscuits at your local dog bakery or making some yourself. The dog food companies listed below have high quality treats available for your dog. Is your dog overweight? Beware of some diet dog foods, they can be loaded with fillers that provide no added nutrition. At least green beans are healthy. You can also use canned pumpkin. Typically goldens love it! DO NOT free feed your golden; instead feed a measured amount of food twice a day. Most adult goldens will eat 1 cup of premium dog food twice a day. Is your dog too fat? You should be able to feel its ribs and your dog should have a waist. We have found that we have a different view of what constitutes a fat dog than many veterinarians. They will typically allow dogs to carry more weight than is optimal. This perhaps is because they do not want to insult their clients and risk losing business. Letting your golden get too fat is like chopping years off of its life. We also see lots of hip problems with goldens, and keeping weight in check will give your dog better mobility. Fat goldens are an epidemic from our experience. We routinely get goldens into our rescue program that have to lose 30 — 40 pounds!!! Therefore we have a lot of experience at taking the weight off! It is very discouraging and upsetting when an adoptive home will let some weight creep back on. You may think you are loving your dog by giving it too much to eat, but if you really love it you will keep it at a normal weight. Remember — Ribs and Waists! Can you feel and see them on your dog? If not, break open the cans of green beans! The bottom line is read the ingredients, consult your veterinarian and research reliable resources. Making sure your dog has the best nutritional food will help to insure he has a long and healthy life. Here, from Whole Dog Journal, are some additional links for selecting best dry dog food and the best canned dog reviews. Goldens Rescued Since .Learn more » Congratulations on your new golden retriever puppy! You now have a beautiful, smart, and loyal dog who will love you for life. To make sure they grow into a healthy and happy companion, you need to feed them the right amount of food. At months old, which is usually when they are ready to leave their mother, a golden retriever puppy should be eating 3 cups of dog food divided into three meals per day. This is based on a typical large-breed puppy food. Different brands will give a feeding guide on their packaging. However, how much and how often to feed your golden retriever will keep changing during this time of rapid growth. Golden Retriever Puppy Feeding Timeline Image Credit: PxHere All puppies are different as are the foods, but some general guidelines for feeding your golden retriever during their first year are: 0—6 weeks: A golden retriever puppy can start eating solid food when they are 3—4 weeks old. Give them a total of 3 cups of dog food per day by their third month, 3 to 4 cups by the time they are 6 months old. The AKC recommends waiting until large breed puppies are at least 12 months old before switching them over to adult dog food and more likely 18 months. The amount will depend on their weight and activity level, but a rough guide is 1—2 cups per meal. Image Credit: Kinek00, Shutterstock Large breed puppies like golden retrievers should eat three to four small meals a day for the first 3—6 months of their lives. Smaller portions spread throughout the day are easier on their tummies and help prevent bloat, a serious condition that can be deadly for dogs. It also helps them maintain their energy level throughout the day. Puppy food has more calories and fat to support their growth, as well as extra vitamins and minerals for their developing immune and nervous systems and bones. The protein source matters, too. Puppies need animal-based proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb for their growing muscles. Choose a Large Breed Formula: Large breed puppies grow quickly, which means they need extra support for their bones and joints. Formulations for large breeds contain the correct calcium and phosphorus ratio for strong bones and glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints. They can help you choose the right food for your puppy based on their age, weight, and activity level. But puppies need to be fed on a schedule to prevent them from overeating and becoming overweight. How do you know if your puppy is getting enough to eat? After that, their growth will start to slow down. He Has a Healthy Appetite: A healthy puppy is interested in food and eager to eat. He Has Plenty of Energy: A well-fed puppy is full of energy and ready to play. Make the most of mealtime with these tips: 1. It also helps other aspects of puppy training, such as potty training and crate training. Image Credit: Alena Marchuk, Shutterstock This means leaving food out all day for them to graze on whenever they want. Leave food down for 10 minutes and then pick up what is not eaten. If they have not eaten anything, offer it again in an hour. Slow them down by scattering their kibble around the bowl, using a puzzle feeder or snuffle mat. This will help them learn to eat slowly and enjoy their food more. If your puppy is not drinking enough water for your liking, try adding a bit of broth to their bowl to make it more appealing and help them stay hydrated. Resist the Urge to Sneak Them Table Scraps Puppies are experts at giving those big, soulful eyes that make it hard to say no. But resist the temptation to give them table scraps or human food. Aside from teaching them bad manners, it can also lead to health problems, like obesity. A lot of human foods are not safe or healthy for dogs. For instance, garlic and onions are toxic to dogs. Oily food can upset their stomach, and carbs add a lot of calories. This helps them learn that mealtime is a specific time and place and not something that happens all over the house. Let Your Puppy Eat in Peace. This includes other pets in the house and small children who might want to bother them or try to steal their food. Otherwise, meals can become a stressful experience for your puppy instead of a happy one. Conclusion Feeding your golden retriever puppy the right amount of quality dog food will establish a strong foundation for their health and happiness. In addition, make mealtimes more meaningful by turning them into lessons and bonding moments between you and your dog. The puppy phase is over before you know it, so enjoy it while it lasts! Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months. There is also info on how to keep your puppy and your adult at his or her optimum weight. Scroll down to find growth charts to make sure your puppy is growing at the proper rate and is within the right weight range for his age. If you are looking for information on what to feed, go to How to Choose a Dog Food. Unlike with human children, a puppy that is overfed will grow too fast before they grow too fat. A good example is where a smaller puppy at 10 weeks was overfed and his growth was compared to a puppy that was correctly fed. The growth of your puppy needs to be controlled. General Guidelines for Puppies Below are some general guidelines on how much to feed puppies. Most dog food bags suggest feeding too much. Increase to about 3 cups a day by 5 months for boys and by 6 months for girls. Golden Retrievers at this age are supposed to look lanky and all Golden Retrievers act like they are starving when fed the correct amount. If left to eat as much as they want, they will all grow too fast. In the wild, dogs do not have unlimited access to eat as much as they want. They work for their food. Caloric Needs Greatly Decrease at About a Year When puppies reach about months, their caloric needs begin to decrease. Some males might need 4 cups if active and are fed a less expensive food. Make sure you take into consideration the number of extra calories being fed as treats. You should be able to feel their ribs, but not see them even when the dog is wet. If you can see the ribs, increase their food. Decrease the food if you cannot feel them. I always tell people that it is better to underfeed than to overfeed, especially when feeding puppies. Weight Range Charts Following are charts of how puppies should generally grow in weight. Keep in mind that very few puppies need to be at the top of these ranges and if you cannot feel ribs, your dog is overweight even if she is in this weight range. If your dog is still a puppy and she is over these weight ranges, you are feeding her too much. Female Golden Retriever Weight Chart Here is a chart of how girls should generally grow in weight: 2 Months — pounds.

Royal Canin makes dry food tailored explicitly to particular breeds. Its Golden food variation uses chicken and brown rice ingredients to support digestive health, strong bones, and a healthy coat. Gorgeous coats, healthy body conditions, great activity levels- perfect puppies! With a combination of healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables, and more, this dry dog food will encourage healthy muscle development in your Golden Retriever as well as strong teeth, a healthy heart, and improved skin and coat texture. Looking at the ingredients makes me feel that I have purchased a quality product for my guy. With ingredients like real protein, fruits, and vegetables, this dry food increases energy, strengthens bones, improves immune strength, and neutralizes free radicals. Her coat is healthier and shiny. She even trimmed down a little as her old dog food was making her fat. They produce high-quality dog food for your Golden Retriever at an affordable price. Veterinarians recommend IAMS Proactive Health because it uses ingredients like animal protein and antioxidant-rich veggies to nourish your dog and meet their complete health needs. Highly recommend it. Good for maintaining a decent weight too. Gobbles it down! With fish as the main protein, this kibble promotes a gorgeous coat and healthy skin and improves digestive issues. He eats it enthusiastically, and it has really helped him thrive! He is energetic, has a gorgeous coat, and devours his meals! She is a much happier dog. The Save Shredded Puppy Blend includes probiotics to help ease the digestion in growing Golden Retriever puppies with sensitive stomachs. I mix it with wet food, and he loves it. He loves the chunks of shredded chicken! I highly recommend it. This large-breed dry food can help your Golden Retriever maintain a healthy coat and great skin as well as smooth digestion. All of them love this food! Their coats are shiny and soft, and their poops are small! The exclusive formula also increases energy levels! We tried another brand, and it caused all kinds of allergic reactions. We went back to Eagle Pack, and all is right again. Great product! That may be because they have a senior Golden Retriever who is struggling with dental issues or feel that dehydrated food options are healthier. This particular food contains real protein and essential nutrients that can benefit dogs of all ages. Once we got this, she became a food-crazed puppy! This food includes a combination of freeze-dried raw-coated kibble with real pieces of freeze-dried raw meat! This variety has lots of meat sources plus several strains of probiotics. In general, your dog will benefit from puppy food from about 8 weeks of age until they are six months to a year old. Check with your vet to determine the right time to switch from a puppy food to one for adult dogs, as recommendations vary based on the size of your dog. A few days later, you can begin making it a half-and-half blend. Make sure to watch for loose stool from your pup as you transition — if you notice that your Golden is struggling with the new diet, wait for a few days before increasing the blend. When in doubt, check with your vet! Most dog foods come with specific volumes listed on the side. Overfeeding your pet can lead to a variety of health concerns. To determine what food will suit your dog the best, check out 17 of the top dog foods on the market for Golden Retrievers, no matter their age. Check with your vet to determine whether your Golden will need any special dietary considerations. Foods considered toxic to Golden Retrievers are macadamia nuts, chocolate, onions, garlic cloves, grapes, raisins, walnuts, alcohol, and any foods sweetened with xylitol. Try to avoid feeding your Golden food containing any of these ingredients. Grain is an essential component to the diet of Golden Retrievers. The absence of grain has been known to lead to a deficiency in taurine, which can potentially cause heart problems for your golden. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. They are growing quickly, so while they eat smaller quantities of food than adult dogs, they need to extract far more nutrients like protein, minerals, and vitamins, to sustain their growth and development. Different Dogs, Different Diets Nutritional needs vary from breed to breed. One only needs to look at golden retrievers to know they require a different diet than a Chihuahua! For example, joint and bone problems are much more common in big dogs than in little ones, but choosing the right puppy food can reduce the risk. Large-breed puppy food has reduced amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which helps control the rate of skeletal growth. Also, you may find puppy foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. By consuming too much food, your puppy will have elevated levels of the very nutrients that should be limited. Additionally, overweight puppies may develop other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Good eating habits developed during puppyhood will lead to a healthy mature dog in the years to come. Nutrition For The Outside One of the most visible components of your dog is its fur. Nutrition plays a vital role in this area. A large percentage of the protein your puppy takes in goes towards maintaining its coat. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for healthy skin and fur. Which Food Do I Choose? There will always be those who buy the cheapest brand on the market. Some will opt for the most expensive, while others will simply go with a brand name they recognize. The key is to find the right food for your particular puppy. One thing you cannot afford to ignore is the nutritional content. Because they are still growing, puppies need more protein than adults. Proteins foster muscle growth and development in puppies and lean muscle maintenance in adults, so the more of it there is in a diet, the better it is for your growing retriever. Fats, too, are important for golden puppies because they provide the energy required for everyday activities. You should be careful, however, not to feed your golden excess calories because this will result in excess weight or obesity. Eventually, your dog will end up battling joint problems. For instance, less expensive dog foods typically have lower-quality ingredients. The contents are often inexpensive, low-grade animal protein sources, like by-products and fillers. Fillers are frequently things like cornmeal, rice flour, or seed hulls. In general, thoroughly review the nutritional content of your chosen diet. Are the ingredients wholesome and natural? Does the diet have controlled calcium and phosphorous levels? Is the calorie and fat content limited to manage growth? Does the label state that the diet is complete and balanced? This can lead to obesity and will certainly cause increased defecation. The latter of these two issues will make house training more difficult than it already is. By contrast, costlier dog foods usually have higher-quality ingredients. The scales will be tipped heavily in favor of high-grade animal protein sources and fillers will be few and far between. Price is not, however, a guarantee of quality. The best dog foods for a golden retriever puppy are made with high-quality natural ingredients and have high levels of protein. Make sure the food is complete and balanced for daily feeding and formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. At this point, golden retriever puppies have likely already been switched to dry puppy food and you should continue feeding your pup the same type of food the breeder used. From the day you bring them home until they are six months old, you should feed your golden retriever puppy three times a day. Ideally, your pup should have breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. A grain-free diet is the default meal for golden retrievers that are sensitive to grains, but if your dog is healthy, feeding her such a meal boils down to choice. A lot has been said about grain-free diets. Reports and studies have been carried out in recent years trying to establish any connection between it and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM. That all starts with choosing the best puppy food for golden retrievers. Avoid low-cost foods that are more filler than substance, and look for better foods that are packed with nutrients to help your puppy grow. In particular, consider trying a large breed formula to meet the specific needs of your golden retriever puppy. Good nutrition is an essential part of any health regimen, and providing high-quality puppy food will lay the foundation for a long, and enjoyable life. You May Also Like. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. But there are so many choices. The pet food industry has exploded in recent years. Remember though that, if you intend to switch your dog to a new diet, do so over the course of seven to 10 days to help avoid intestinal upsets or diarrhea. Types of Foods The main types of commercial foods are dry, moist, dehydrated, and fresh. As a large-breed dog, it would take a lot of moist food to properly feed a golden. Why Do the Ingredients of a Food Matter? Of course, your golden is a highly intelligent and sociable dog. Unfortunately, goldens have a higher-than-average incidence of cancer. But AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles consist only of minimum values for all the nutrients required by dogs and maximum values for just a few nutrients that can be toxic if consumed in excessive amounts. But, even with such regulation, not all foods are created equal. Feeding a food with low-quality ingredients may contribute to chronic inflammation and obesity. And chronic inflammation can contribute to arthritis, diabetes, cancer, and infection. Foods should be made from wholesome, natural ingredients with no fillers, by-products, or artificial additives. They should be rich in high-quality animal sources such as poultry, meat, and fish. Our beloved goldens are one of the breeds most likely to become obese. If your dog becomes obese, you can even ask your vet about prescription weight-loss diets. There are certain requirements foods should meet. The Merck Veterinary Manual states that adult dogs require a minimum of 18 percent of protein in their diets, whereas puppies require at least 22 percent protein. A good food should contain healthy meats and fats. They should also contain fruits and vegetables. And, of course, the proper mix of vitamins and minerals for optimal health. Natural preservatives such as tocopherols vitamin E , vitamin C, or rosemary extract should be used rather than artificial ones. Large breed dogs and puppies have different nutritional requirements than small breeds do. They grow more quickly than breeds who are small or medium-sized as adults. Golden retriever puppies have a greater risk of developing a crippling form of hip disease if fed a diet that contains too much calcium. Adult goldens can be fed any high-quality kibble or a kibble specifically for large breed dogs. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association AVMA , large-breed dogs have shorter lifespans than their smaller counterparts and can be considered seniors when five or six years old. The veterinary community has also been compiling and analyzing data on diet-related DCM in dogs. DCM is a disease in which the heart muscle weakens, leading to the loss of the ability to contract normally and pump blood through the body. Symptoms of DCM can include weakness, lethargy, shortness of breath, fainting, and the inability of exercise. It can become life-threatening. The link between grain-free foods and DCM is still being investigated, as there are many variables to be considered. Note that some dogs are allergic to certain grains and may need to avoid them. But this is best decided by a veterinarian, especially a board-certified nutritionist. Diseases which impact goldens, such as inflammatory bowel disease or atopic skin diseases and allergies, have a strong link to the foods they ingest. And, in determining how much to feed, the manufacturers of pet foods provide guidelines on their labels. But remember that the guidelines are just that. You can always adjust the amount of food he eats depending on his weight and health. In addition to doing your own research, you can consult your vet or a veterinary nutritionist to determine which food and amount would be best for your golden. But remember: there is no one perfect food for any dog. And choosing a high-quality food may also reduce his risk of health problems. What Do the Terms on the Label Mean? The labels on pet foods can be confusing. Learning what the terms mean can help you decipher which one is a higher-quality product. The terms on a label are listed in descending amounts of ingredients. So the first few listed are found in larger amounts than those at the bottom of the items listed on the label. Meat Meat is the skeletal muscle of animals as well as tissue from the heart. This may be beef, chicken, pork, lamb, or salmon. This is the animal flesh without any water extracted. Meat Meal It can include only actual meat, skin, and bone, which can be nutritious. But it can legally contain animals who were dying, diseased, deformed, or had died before slaughtering. Meat meals are the product after the excess moisture has been removed from the meat. These include lungs, kidneys, brains, bone, blood, heads, spleens, stomachs, beaks, feet, feathers, and intestines. Unfortunately, like meat meal, it can contain animals who were very sick or dead before slaughtering which need not be disclosed to the consumer. Whole Meats versus Named Protein Meals These are named proteins such as chicken, salmon, beef, and lamb. They can contain up to 70 percent moisture prior to cooking. Named protein meals, such as lamb meal, have that excess moisture removed being processed into kibble. So meals actually have more protein by weight than whole meats do. Fish Meal Fish meal is the clean ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish or fish cuttings, with or without the oil extracted. Ground Corn Ground corn is the entire corn kernel ground or chopped. Corn Gluten Meal Corn gluten meal is the by-product after the manufacture of corn syrup or starch, and is the dried residue after the removal of the bran, germ, and starch. Brewers Rice Brewers rice is the small fragments of rice kernels that have been separated from larger kernels of milled rice. Brown Rice Brown rice is the unpolished rice left over after the kernels have been removed. Soybean Meal Soybean meal is a by-product of the production of soybean oil. Holistic or Natural These are terms that some companies use. But they have no meaning according to the FDA. So beware that such foods may not be what we think of as being holistic or natural. Organic This means that the food is free from antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, and preservatives. Of course, higher-quality ingredients cost more. Also avoid foods that have been overly processed or contain hormones or steroids. Meat by-products and poultry by-products are one of the lower-quality ingredients. Try to avoid them. It can also be restaurant grease. Corn and soy are generally regarded to be inferior ingredients and fillers. Remember that if you feed a high-quality food to your dog without fillers, you often can feed less. And I also considered various foods before making my selection. My dogs are doing well on this food. Goldens love their food and eat a lot because of their size. The Dog Food Advisor is a public service website designed to help you make a more informed decision when buying dog food. The write-ups are taken from those found on the Dog Food Advisor website. The links will also lead to information regarding additional high-rated foods. The formula contains a minimum of 34 percent of named proteins. Its high-protein content helps form strong muscles. The formula includes increased amounts of glucosamine and chondroitin to support bone and joint health in larger-sized dogs. This recipe contains the preferred amount of fat and calories to help maintain a healthy weight for a dog the size of a golden. It has no meat by-products or fillers. And no corn, wheat, or soy. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Large-Breed Chicken Formula The top five ingredients are deboned salmon, chicken meal, pea protein, peas, and tapioca starch, with a minimum of 32 percent protein. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed Chicken is a great option for those looking for higher protein and an optimal blend of calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitamins to help keep bones strong. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids found in fish meal and flaxseed ensure a healthy coat. An ideal blend of protein, fat and carbohydrates are also included to assist your large breed dog in keeping a healthy weight. It also has antioxidants to boost immune health and no poultry by-products. Glucosamine and chondroitin are added for healthy joints. It contains a minimum of 27 percent with named proteins. Now Fresh Large Breed Adult contains balanced proteins and fats from turkey, salmon, and duck. The formula also has antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables such as spinach, cranberries, pumpkin, blackberries, and carrots. These are great for building a strong immune system to help fight disease. This recipe is recommended for dogs over 50 pounds and between 15 months and five years of age. It contains extra nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin for hip and joint care for larger-breed dogs. There are no by-products or artificial preservatives. The formula contains probiotics to support digestion. There is no gluten, wheat, corn, or soy Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Large-Breed Adult Formula The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, sweet potatoes, and potatoes. The food contains a minimum of 38 percent protein. The Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Large Breed recipe contains added glucosamine and chondroitin to help support healthy hip and joint function, essential for large-breed dogs. Omega fatty acids from salmon oil help ensure a healthy skin and coat. A unique raw-infused kibble recipe is loaded with protein. The recipe has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and is gluten free. Purina Pro Plan Adult Dog Food The top five ingredients in this formula are chicken, rice, whole grain wheat, poultry by-product meal, and soybean meal. It has a minimum protein of 26 protein percent. The formula also has live probiotics to support healthy digestion. Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend combines a hard kibble with tender, pieces of real, shredded chicken for enhanced flavor and texture. It has live probiotics to support healthy digestion as well as omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. It contains no artificial colors or flavors. Although this formula is highly-ranked and has been a favorite with consumers, please note that it contains poultry by-product and soybean meal, both of which are often considered to be inferior ingredients. But apparently many consumers have found that their dogs are doing well on this food. Some Suggested Foods for Your Golden Retriever Puppy Of course puppies require a higher amount of protein and fat than adults generally do. But note that adult goldens who are very active, such as dogs who do agility, generally need more protein and fat than other goldens do. But they may not need as much as puppies do. Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy Food The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas, ground brown rice, and salmon meal. The recipe contains a minimum of 32 percent protein. It has 14 percent fat, and 45 percent estimated carbs and has a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44percent. It also has a safe, balanced amount of calcium. Origen Puppy Large Breed Formula The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, deboned turkey, yellowtail flounder, whole eggs, and whole atlantic mackerel. This recipe contains a minimum of 43 percent protein, 18 percent fat and 30percent estimated carbs, creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 41percent. This high-quality food is more expensive than many five-star rated foods. Diamond Naturals Large-Breed Puppy Formula The top five ingredients are lamb, lamb meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, and ground white rice. This budget-friendly food has a dry matter label analysis of 30 percent protein, 17 percent fat, and 45 percent estimated carbs. It has a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56 percent. The dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29 percent protein, 17 percent fat and 46 percent estimated carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58 percent. This is a top-rated food that is budget conscious. Purina Pro Plan Large-Breed Puppy Formula The top five ingredients are chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, and poultry by-product meal. The dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32 percent protein. It also contains 15 percent fat and 45 percent estimated carbs. This yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47 percent. This formula is highly-ranked and has been a favorite with consumers. Purina Pro Plan is what we are currently feeding our guide dog puppies. But, as is true of the adult Pro Plan food listed above, please note that it contains poultry by-product and soybean meal, both of which are often considered to be inferior ingredients. Final Thoughts There are so many choices when selecting a food for your beloved golden retriever. It can really be challenging to find the right food. But remember because there are so many choices, there is no one right food for your pup. Dog food ratings can help make a choice. So can knowing the basics regarding what the terms on a food label mean. Are you thinking of switching foods? Please leave your comments in the section below. Related Article:. Best Starter Foods for Golden Retriever Newborn month old : After your Golden Retriever puppy completes 1 month, they should be introduced to a good starter dog food which is an ideal transition from maternal milk to solid foods. These foods meet both the energy and dietary needs of the pups during their weaning phase. The starter foods can also be served to lactating mothers, fulfilling their high energy demands during the nursing period. Here are a few starter food options: 1 Royal Canin Maxi Starter Imperial Royal Canin Maxi Starter is healthfully complete starter nourishment meant exclusively for a large breed dog like Golden Retriever. It has all the significant components for keeping great wellbeing in both the lactating bitch and her little puppies. The benefits of Royal Canin Maxi Starter: The kibble rehydrates rapidly into porridge-like consistency, making it very delicious. Supports excellent digestive health. Strengthens the natural defence of both the mother and pups. Contains essential vitamins and minerals which improve cellular health and immunity. Prebiotics and probiotics in the diet assist gentle and healthy digestion. Contains lean proteins to build strong muscle mass. Consists of natural ingredients that support a higher nutrient absorption and a healthy bowel activity. Consequently, they should be fed at least three times each day. A typical Golden Retriever Puppy consumes around calories a day. Nutritional Requirements of Golden Retriever Puppy 1. Having a good measure of fats in their diet gives them a consolidated energy source for keeping up a functioning way of life. The unsaturated fats too help to brace their skin health. Omega Fatty Acids: Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids are vital elements in their diet for keeping strong bones and joints. It also offers good anti-inflammatory effect, that reduces pain and swelling in the joints. The kibble size and shape perfectly adapts to the jaws of a puppy Golden Retriever. Consists of natural fibres to promote excellent digestion in pups. Anti-oxidants build a strong defence mechanism in the pups. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large Breed: Biologically appropriate food that maintains supreme health and wellbeing in pups. Infusions of freeze-dried chicken and turkey liver make the food highly palatable. Natural sources of Glucosamine and Chondroitin keep strong muscles and joints. Clinically proven anti-oxidants maintain a strong immunity in puppies. Unlike puppies, most grown up Golden Retrievers are satisfied with 2 meals per day. Taurine keeps good cardiac function and also healthy eyesight in the dogs. Contains dietary fibres that keep healthy gut and excellent digestive functioning. Extensive protein content to enhance muscle mass and strength. High quality meat and rice offering greater taste and nutritional value. The low glycemic index of the food eliminates obesity and diabetes in the dogs. Pumpkin as an ingredient regulates intestinal motility. They become less active and therefore a little vulnerable to obesity. It is critical to nourish them with low-calorie sustenance as it keeps an ideal body weight and consequently puts less pressure on the joints. Also owing to their low exercise requirements, they only consume around Calories daily. Low Carbohydrate Content: A diet that has low carbs keeps a healthy blood sugar level in the dog, thus eliminating diabetes and obesity. High Fibre Content: Nature Fibres are essential for Senior Golden Retrievers for keeping an ideal body weight and excellent digestive health. Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Having traces of Glucosamine and Chondrotin in the diet of a senior Golden Retriever, alleviate pain produced in bones and joints. Best Foods For Senior Golden Retrievers 1 Orijen Senior Food In case you are searching for organically proper sustenance that has a low glycemic record that keeps diabetes and obesity at bay in your senior Golden Retrievers, you can have Orijen Senior Food which is effectively the best eating regimen for senior Golden Retrievers. A low carb content keeps an ideal weight and a healthy blood sugar level. Highly delicious meal having fresh Free Run Chicken and Turkey tempts the fussiest of eaters. It comprises of edible protein supporting pure osmosis of supplements and furthermore has L-Carnitine which consumes the abundance of fat stores in the body. The ideal ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 controls blood clotting and maintains the health and sheen of the coat. Essential vitamins and minerals keep a robust immune system. Below are some of the foods that should not be given to a Golden Retriever: 1. Raw Eggs.

Through the acquisition of breeding stock with the highest level of standards and a Champion Pedigree our goal has always been to produce dogs that not only show the standard appearance but have the emotional and physical quality that make the French Bulldog the second most popular dog in America. Health being number one our dogs are raised in a family environment with plenty of space to run and be a normal happy dog. Through selective breeding and staying with the approved AKC color models we have produced multiple Champions and will continue to strive to improve the quality of our breed. The health of our pups is the most important aspect of our breeding program. We maintain health records from day one. Find out more A Furever Friend Finding the perfect fit for you and your next Frenchie can be time consuming and challenging. Our website is intended to help you make the right choice with informative facts and information. This link to AKC will show you the best breeders in your area and give you choices that can help you with the process. Open the link, choose find a puppy, French Bulldog breed, give your zip coded search. We post our litters with AKC as well as our website. A French Bull dog will change your life in so many ways. Thank you for looking and feel free to contact us for any information we can help you with. What is a Bulldog? A Bulldog is of course nothing other than a Bulldog, but if you have not seen a Bulldog or a picture of one you may be surprised. People often confuse Bulldogs with other «Bull» breeds, particularly boxers, pit-bulls or bull terriers. The Bulldog is very distinct canine with a rich heritage that surpasses most other known breeds of dog. The Bulldog is a squat, thickset dog, with a large blocky head, short foreface and turned up jaw. If you have decided to get a small sleek-haired dog, strong and brawny, with self-respect and kindness in relation to people and especially to children, intellectual so, that it does not demand special training you will not be mistaken if will choose the French bulldog. If the English bulldog is a symbol of calmness and confidence of, the American bulldog is the furious security guard the French bulldog is a dog companion, cheerful, tender and surprisingly clever! The small, amusing, devoted friend, thus the brawny robust fellow in whom blood fighter ancestors and during the moment of fight or protection of the owner flows, quite often proves brightly enough. On the Native land of the French bulldog in France almost in all families live the French bulldogs. Solid addition and extraordinary appearance involves people of different age and each person wishes to have the reliable cheerful friend to the French bulldog. Emblem of last largest exhibition in France — Paris in became certainly the French bulldog! Our dogs all over in our house and grow with full of love! All of my family has raised french Bulldogs and still does. Many Familes all over the World have one or two of our pups,and are very happy. Our dogs the award many medals and diplomas. The line of blood of champions guarantees high quality of my puppies and long life a life more than years. All of our puppies have a vaccinations of 2 -3 Parvos distemper 1 Leptospirois 1 -2 hepatitis and also 2 vaccinations for skin problem before they reach their new owners. The puppies are dewormed 21 days after birth, and than dewormed again before first and second vaccination. If you will buy the puppy from us kennel that to you it will not be necessary to spend cent for the veterinary doctor, because all my puppies healthy, have strong and health heart, sharp mind, kind appeasable character. Our frenchie very well get on with cats, dogs of any breeds and small children. All our puppies come with AKC registration papers , microchip , shot record vaccinations and 3 times dewormed , health quarantee for one year for any genetic problem, list of recommendations, sample of the food and crate for free! Pictures of each puppy we post on web. California hot state, we do not have winter here, lots of viruses. If you looking to buy healthy puppy — call us. If you want to buy 8 weeks old puppy and take a chance — call somebody else! The earliest we let our puppies go to the new home weeks old 6 weeks old first shot 8 weeks old second shot 12 weeks old third shot 16 weeks old forth shot Puppy Vaccination Schedule Thank you for your understanding! Discover the art of nurturing your French Bulldog, whether a puppy or an adult, through our expert guidance. With an impressive 32 years of experience as French Bulldog specialists, we are uniquely positioned to provide invaluable insights. Our primary goal is to extend our assistance to you, irrespective of your decision to acquire a puppy from an alternative source. As accomplished veterinarians specializing in French and English Bulldogs, our knowledge spans three decades. We focus exclusively on these breeds, surpassing even the knowledge of general veterinarians. This specialization is vital as traditional veterinarians often cater to a diverse array of animals, which may hinder their ability to provide tailored guidance for a single breed. Numerous individuals remain unaware of optimal feeding practices for their Frenchies or English Bulldogs, both before and after the six-month mark. The intricacies of vitamin supplementation, appropriate shampoos, bathing techniques, and proper walking routines are often overlooked.

After all, puppies and human newborns have a lot in common. Your French Bulldog puppy will require companionship, exercise, and a high level of engagement from your first night forward. They will also cry and cause mishaps as they learn how to navigate the world. When you initially bring your new French Bulldog puppy home, expect that they will whimper at night. After all, when a young puppy is removed from its pack for the first time, its natural instinct is to make as much noise as possible. For the first couple of nights after you bring your French Bulldog puppy home, they will most likely cry , yelp, and whine. Since your puppy is anxious to sleep so far away from home, the behaviour is, unfortunately, likely to persist for the next several days or weeks. Similar to the experience of bringing a newborn baby home, you may expect numerous restless nights spent consoling the new, essentially baby dog at this time. Expect the first night in your home to be the most fearful period for the young puppy and the most difficult time for a new dog owner. The bladders of young puppies are tiny. In any case, you should wake your Frenchie puppy up at night to go potty. Unfortunately, this will have to occur every night for a few months. However, by the time a French Bulldog puppy reaches the age of months, it should have a full-sized bladder and will, therefore, be able to retain pee for more extended periods of time. After all, crate training your Frenchie puppy will most likely be necessary at some stage. So, when you bring your new pup home, why not start allowing them to get used to this safe space on the first night? Arranging Their Bed During the first few nights at home, your French Bulldog puppy will moan and cry. This is understandable because it is their first time away from the mother dog. Be prepared for this circumstance when you obtain a French Bulldog puppy and recognize that it will pass. For the first few nights, cover their crate with a warm blanket and place it near your bed or in another nearby room. Settling Your Frenchie Before Bed While the first night may be difficult, establishing a pattern can help your puppy understand what to anticipate when the rest of the family goes to bed. Make sure your dog has enough mental and physical stimulation during the evening and before bedtime. Before going to bed, owners should spend 10—20 minutes playing with their French Bulldog pups. This will not only exhaust them, but it will also provide them with the crucial stimulation they need to keep them asleep. Spending Time with Your French Bulldog Your French Bulldog puppy was originally attached to its mother, siblings, and breeder, but now you and your puppy are attempting to form a relationship. If you want to bond with your puppy, spend as much quality time with them as possible, especially when you first bring them home. For example, if you work long hours, attempt to pick up your puppy during the holiday weekend or take a few days off when you bring a new puppy home. The key goal is to spend as much time as possible with the puppy so that you can get to know one other and form a bond. When your new French Bulldog puppy bonds with you, it can make bedtime routines easier and lessen whimpers overnight. Ignoring your whiny Frenchie is the most effective approach to get it to stop crying overnight. However, you should first check to see whether your French Bulldog puppy is attempting to communicate with you for any other reason. As a result, if you know your new puppy has been fed, watered, and eliminated before night, they are begging for your attention. Eventually, your pup will realize they are safe, quiet down and fall asleep. Puppies have a small bladder and will, therefore, need to excrete regularly during the day and night, so anticipate on taking your puppy out to the yard on a regular basis. Remember that a puppy may roam around and eliminate multiple times before being finished, so make sure their tank is empty before bringing them back into your home. If this occurs, do not reprimand your Frenchie puppy, since this will just make the puppy more fearful. Simply catch the dog in the act and lead them outside to their allocated yard spot. Make sure to take your French Bulldog puppy out to do their business before settling in for the night to avoid accidents. As previously said, pups have tiny bladders, so expect to be awakened at least once throughout the night to take the puppy out to pee or poop. For example, if your Frenchie puppy was previously calm and has suddenly begun making noise, it will most likely have to go to the toilet. Final Thoughts The first 24 hours with your new French Bulldog puppy will be challenging. Puppies and human babies, after all, have a lot in common. As your Frenchie puppy learns to navigate the world, expect them to cry and cause accidents. However, if you and your French Bulldog puppy make it through the first day, you and your dog will ultimately form a routine. Call Vic Kasser or Email! Puppies usually go to new homes between the age of eight and sixteen weeks, depending on their size and when they have had their first vaccinations. Until this age have had the company of brothers and sisters to snuggle up to for company and warmth. The first day in the new home the puppy is cuddled, played with, and made the center of attention. Life is wonderful. At some point during the evening the family will put the pup to bed. The house becomes quiet. The puppy feels alone and there is no warm body of a brother or sister next to it. It is a natural reaction for the puppy to cry and whine to register a protest and the usual result is that one of the human family will stagger out of bed to console it for a few minutes and go back to bed. The pup will continue to cry, often louder, and again someone will get out of bed to console the pup or even to chastise it. The pup has learnt its first lesson- cry and you are rewarded with company, if only momentarily. Dogs learn fastest by rewarding them for certain actions and continuing to go to the crying puppy will reinforce the lesson that crying brings company. Hearts must be hardened for pups first night home. The decision must be made as to where the pup is going to sleep and the area made ready for it. The area must not be too large, remember that the pup is used to having other bodies close to it. The area must be warm and cozy in the cooler climates and bedding must be provided. Supper should be given and the pup taken outside to relieve itself and then it should be put to bed with a kind word. The crying will commence softly at first but may build up to a crescendo as the pup calls louder. With a bit of luck it may cease after a short time but some pups will continue for the first night. Remember that if at any time you go to the pup you have rewarded the behavior and you will have to start all over again. Naturally you must be sure that the puppy is not crying because it is stuck or hurt but you will recognize the difference in the crying. It is natural that the pup will wake early in the morning and you should be ready to be greeted with exuberance and to respond with love and cuddles. Put the pup out to relieve itself, lavish it with praise for "performing" and then serve puppy breakfast after which, outside for toilet opportunities again, and then you are ready to spend the second day with your best friend. Pin2 2 Shares Once the excitement of bringing your French Bulldog puppy home for the first time is over, the reality will soon start to bite as will the puppy. I remember my wife and I wondering what we had let ourselves in for on that first night of crying and howling! Bringing our French Bulldog puppy home to meet our son for the first time was an amazing experience. Bringing your French bulldog puppy home am: Paid via online bank transfer It was the morning of the pick-up! I transferred the money via online banking, then called the breeder who confirmed receipt you can see how much it costs to buy a Frenchie here — it was now time to go pick up our Frenchie puppy! Injections and vaccinations are super important, and I explain more about it in the questions you should ask a breeder before you buy a Frenchie. We were now the proud owners of a French Bulldog and were ready to bring him home! Ideally any dog should be properly restrained in your car when driving, and now Claude is older we use his own car booster seat. Claude the puppy was fine with the drive, but in some cases Frenchies can get car sick. This meant my wife and I had until 3pm to get Claude settled into our house so he was ready for his first day home. The things that I remember very clearly are how he wanted to run around the house sniffing at everything and getting used to his new surroundings. And then, we had to introduce him to our cat! Claude was a lot smaller than her, but being a puppy, he just wanted to run up to her and find out what she was all about. As you would expect, he wolfed it all down in super quick time! For guidance on how much to feed a Frenchie puppy, take a look at this feeding chart. I went to pick our 3-year-old up from nursery — he had no idea we had bought a dog! In the video below you can see the moment when my son met Claude for the first time! This is all because of their vaccinations, with public walks only advisable 2 weeks after their final set of injections which is around the week point. You can read more about how this work in this guide to when your puppy can go outside. He also had his third and final feed of the day at around .He was quite happy to snuggle up to us Frenchies are very cuddly , but we did make sure to take him downstairs every hour to try to get him used to peeing in the same place. You should try to get your puppy into a routine as soon as possible. Bringing our French Bulldog puppy home for the first time had proven to be an exhausting experience. It was now time for us to go to sleep, and we were hoping Claude would too! And, oh, how mistaken we were. What we did was place his crate in the corner of our bedroom. We put him in the crate, shut the door, and switched our lights off. Within 10 seconds he started crying and howling. It was heart-wrenching. We let him cry in his crate for a few minutes before we could take it no more. Handy Hint: Read my guide about French Bulldog crying and how you can start to stop them whining in their crate at night. We got him out and let him come back onto our bed for another 45 minutes then tried again. Frenchies really do suffer quite badly with separation anxiety , and at this age need you so much. We let him come back onto bed for another cuddle and gave him lots of reassurance. He had a comfy blanket in there and lots of cuddly toys here are the toys we used and this time fell to sleep… success! But it does get better… over time he will forget about his mother and siblings and start to view you as his family. The crying will stop over time, and a regular sleeping pattern will develop. In the graphic below you can see what to expect as your Frenchie gets older and how many hours they will sleep a day. The following days… Over the following days we tried to get Claude to sleep in his crate downstairs. It was impossible to do without lots of crying. In the end we gave up and kept him in his crate in our room for about 8 weeks. After two months we decided it was time for his crate to go in the kitchen. We had to be quite tough at first, as he cried the first couple of nights, but soon developed into his routine — him and our cat actually now share a bed! Claude would constantly be attacking our feet, chasing our shoelaces, chewing things like tables, door mats, shoes, and we would have to hide everything away out of his sight! Prepare to puppy-proof your home Firstly, prepare your home. You almost need to chew-proof everything. Also make sure that any potential escape routes and sealed off! We got a 42 inch one knowing that it would be ok for him as he got bigger and older. Inside his crate we placed some soft bedding and a few toys, plus laid down a puppy pad view on Amazon in the corner for him to pee on in the night. Get some toys and things to play with Frenchies love to play. We bought Claude a couple of stuffed toys, a Kong for teething on , and a few balls. You can see all the toys he still loves to play with here. It contains all the nutrition growing puppies need, plus… and this is a biggie… is said to reduce their terrible farts! You can buy Royal Canin Frenchie puppy food on Amazon. Be prepared to give him your undivided attention and be prepared for lots of crying at night. The sooner you can get this behavior ingrained into them, the quicker they will learn. Expect your puppy to cry for the first few nights. Plan where your puppy will be sleeping, ideally somewhere close to your own bedroom for the first few nights. Use a puppy crate. A crate is a safe, comfortable area that also makes housetraining easier in the long run. Ask your breeder for a blanket that smells like their mother. Your puppy may have accidents during the night. Puppies between weeks can only hold their bladder for a few hours at a time. Resist letting your puppy sleep in the bed. Always put the safety of your pup first and avoid any potential accidents. Your puppy will not likely be potty trained either. Check your puppy is safe but avoid attention-seeking behavior. Try to avoid teaching your puppy that if they cry you will come. Make sure the area is warm, dry, and in a quiet spot, such as in a spare room. After taking your puppy to use the bathroom, take them back to bed straight away with minimal fuss to help them understand that nighttime is for sleeping, not playing. Letting your puppy sleep in your bed can put your puppy in danger of falling out or being smothered. How long until a puppy can sleep through the night? As a rule, puppies can hold their bladder for 1 hour for every month of age. So, for example, an 8-week-old puppy can go around 2 hours without needing to potty Where should your puppy sleep? Puppy crate The best place for a puppy to sleep is inside a dog crate. Not only does a crate make housetraining your puppy considerably easier, but it also provides your pup with a secluded space they can unwind. When your puppy is stressed or anxious, they will naturally gravitate toward their crate. Fill it with blankets or a dog bed, as well as some toys and treats. Place a blanket over the exterior of the crate to make it feel more den-like and secure. Encouraging a positive association with the object is key as, otherwise, your puppy will be naturally fearful and wary of it. This can be done by praising and rewarding your pup for simply investigating the crate. Once your puppy is comfortable being around the crate, they might be brave enough to go inside it, especially if there are some exciting toys or treats that await them. Start closing the door on the crate while your puppy is inside for a short period, making sure to reward them afterward. You can gradually increase the duration until your puppy is happy being in the crate for at least 10 minutes with the door closed. Now you can begin leaving the room while your puppy is inside the crate alone. Only leave for a minute or two, then slowly increase the time you are away until your puppy is fine being by themselves for at least an hour. Create a nighttime puppy schedule Alongside crate training your puppy, creating a nighttime schedule is another great way you can help them sleep at night. Dogs thrive on routine as it lets them know what to expect each day. Keep noise to a minimum — no yelling, playing loud music, blasting the TV on the highest volume, etc. If possible, dim the lights to help your puppy chill out. Try not to overstimulate your pup just before bedtime. Spend some quiet time with them, then take them out to use the bathroom before popping them in bed. Doing so could make them more likely to cry at night. The first night The first night is usually the most challenging for puppy owners. Being in an unfamiliar place without their mother and siblings is bound to be stressful for your new pup. Fill their crate with blankets, toys, and some puppy pads in case of any accidents. The heat will be reminiscent of the warmth of their mother. Your presence will help them feel a bit more reassured. Doing so will only encourage them to make more noise. Make sure you only go over to your pup when they are quiet. Set some alarms as your puppy will need to relieve themselves during the night. Even at 8 weeks old, puppies can only hold their bladder for around 2 hours. This will help them get used to the nighttime routine. Calming pre-bedtime puppy activities As mentioned earlier, bedtime for your puppy should be as calm as possible, so make sure their last meal is at least an hour before they go to bed. You can also play relaxing music or keep the TV at the lowest volume. Instead, cuddle up with your pooch or massage them to help them unwind. However, with time and patience, your companion should be able to sleep without the need to cry or bark! Crate training your puppy will make things considerably easier, as will wearing out your puppy each day with exercise and fun activities. For at least the first few nights your puppy is with you, consider letting them sleep in the same with you and put the crate close to your bed. Once your puppy has had time to settle in, you can then move their crate to a separate room. Should I leave my puppy to cry at night? Hearing your puppy cry at night can be concerning, and your natural instinct will probably be to check on them! This is actually the correct thing to do. Besides, ignoring your puppy will only shake their confidence and may make the behavior worse. Take your puppy outside as they may need the toilet, then calmly put them back inside the crate. You can reassure your puppy, but try to keep attention to a minimum. This will make them likely to associate crying or barking as a way to receive attention. How long should puppies sleep? Puppies, especially those younger than 6 months of age, sleep for a considerable amount each day. Young dogs need lots of rest so they can grow up big and strong! Most puppies will happily sleep for between 18 to 20 hours a day. Once a puppy reaches their half birthday, they will typically sleep for around 16 hours a day. Adult dogs, on the other hand, nap anywhere from 8 to .Do you want your Frenchie to sleep with you in the bed or not? Where will he or she sleep? Where can he or she pee? The best is to agree on these rules with the family and make the kids follow them too. You can tell them that they help your puppy by giving clear instructions. Your Frenchie needs to have clear rules and boundaries to become a healthy and happy French Bulldog. They are still very young to understand it from instructions. Remove carpets from the house as puppies pee on it and later it will be very hard to re-train him or her. The final aim is to get them to pee outside. Finally a few tips on how to be effective with training your Frenchie: Start it as soon as your pup arrives. Tell your pup right away when he or she did something bad, never punish later as the puppy will be confused. The tone of your voice matters more than what you say. Use body language to express who is the leader of the pack: stand tall and use your hands to show the instructions. Give plenty of praise when he or she does something good. You can also give them treats based on how satisfied you are with what they did. Please find here more details on training a Frenchie. The article was written based on the experience of the TomKings Puppies Team. TomKings Puppies have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and show a puppy from their breed. Check their available puppies here , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. New born puppies are very helpless. They are born blind and deaf and unable to regulate their body temperatures, so we have to use an external heat source when the puppies are not in direct contact with mom. During this time period, their mothers have to stimulate them in order for them to urinate and have bowel movements. This is a very busy time for us and we are usually very sleep deprived because we assist the mothers every 3 hours around the clock to make sure that all puppies are latching on well, growing, and being stimulated to urinate and defecate. It is a critical time in which the puppies are so small that an unaware Frenchie mother could accidentally smother one or more of her pups, so we monitor them very closely. Lacey takes a video of each litter at 3 weeks of age and posts them on our website under New Puppies so that our clients near the top of the list, as well as other clients and prospective clients, can get a early look at them. They continue to gain weight rapidly over the next several months of their lives. At two weeks age their ears open and they are able to hear, and another big part of their new world opens up. Prior to this event, about all they do is grunt or mew, but afterward their vocabulary includes yelps, whines, and even little barks. At three weeks of age the more advanced puppies start taking their first shaky steps; prior to this their basic mode of transportation is basic army crawling. They are now able to urinate and defecate on their own and will move away from their sleeping area to do so. Up to this point it is strictly the mothers and us Donna, Lacey, and Bick who have handled the pups with lots of hand sanitizing before and after and they have been kept in their kennel. Even though it is hard on the kids, we do not let them or their friends handle them until 4 weeks of age. At four weeks we start introducing them to solid food initially crushed and moistened. By the end of the 4th week they are eating their crushed puppy food, with no water added, three times a day. Because they are not nursing as long or as often, we provide fresh water for them at all times. The kids are allowed to hold them now closely monitored and with clean hands and we allow the puppies to run around and explore our large main room in the house. At 5 weeks of age they are starting to run around all over the place when they are let out to play, and, when they are in their kennels, they play sometimes rather roughly with litter mates. It is during this time when some of their adult personalities will start coming out. By the end of this week their puppy teeth are all in, and they love to chew on things, including fingers if you let them. However, even at this age, they will spend most of their time sleeping, probably close to 20 hours per day, with only short times between naps when they are alert and active. By the end of the 6th week they are completely weaned from their moms and eating solid food well. We frequently take them out of their kennels to scamper around. They are full of energy and love to play with their litter-mates and the kids. This is the time that we really focus on socializing them and we even start their paper training. By 7 weeks they have already passed through most of their puppy milestones and are continuing to grow rapidly; they are generally in the 4 to 6 pound range. This is when their personalities really start coming out! It is so fun to watch them play with the kids and their litter-mates and observe their new fascination with toys. They have become somewhat accustomed to going potty on pee pads so that when they are out running around the room they often recognize them on the floor and will go potty on them. Though they are fast, active, playful little puppies at this point in their lives, they still are like babies and require lots of sleep probably over 18 hours per day and are still quite fragile. This video will show the color and conformation of each puppy, in addition to its personality. Their their third DAPP and 2nd Bordetella vaccinations are given at 12 weeks and then a yearly booster thereafter. The rabies shot can also be given at 12 weeks no later than 16 weeks. They are also regularly de-wormed and given a medication for the prevention of coccidia and giardia. Occasionally we hold onto puppies a little longer if we do not feel they are quite ready to go to their new homes. Our clients are encouraged to come to our home to meet their fur babies if this is feasible. When this is not possible, we arrange for one of our responsible puppy chaperones to hand deliver our puppies to meet their new owners at their nearest major airport. In fact, even as adults they will sleep at least half of the day in a series of long naps, and probably closer to 14 hours per day. Have More Questions?

The first step helps you determine why your GSD is barking and then address the underlying issue rather than reprimand the behavior. Top reasons your dog might bark at unknown people might include: Trying to greet the person but having poor greeting manners. Showing territorial behaviors, like protecting their home or yard. Seeing strangers as potential threats. So, they often bark when they notice strangers near their home or yard to protect and alert. They warn their families to threats by barking at people, even when they are not near their home or close to their yard — yet your dog hears them. Your dog will still remain watchful and aware of dangers, even if you discourage excessive barking. The goal is to help them understand the difference between non-threatening objects and threatening objects. If you think your GSD is becoming aggressive, then read up on deterring aggressiveness in your German Shepherd. Harsh punishment—such as hitting, kicking, or using shock—increases aggressiveness in some situations. Other times, owners may use a shock anti-bark collar as a method of punishment for barking. Using painful anti-bark collars and muzzles should be a last resort. Try more positive methods first before adding in negative punishment. Put the treat right up to their nose and let them smell it. Praise him and give him the treat. Repeat this procedure regularly over a period of several days until your dog starts understanding what the command means. Gradually extend the waiting period to five seconds, then 10 seconds, then 20 seconds and then 30 seconds and longer. Finally, work up to the minute mark for the waiting time until the reward. If your German Shepherd barks at strangers when he is outside the house, for example, during walks, then begin a desensitization program. This is a way to find their threshold when they start barking and to work on decreasing the distance to the stimulus the stranger they bark at. Use treats that are soft, like cheese, tiny pieces of fresh-cooked chicken, or even homemade dog training fudge. Reserve these treats only for outside training times, which makes them more high value to your GSD. Be on the lookout for: a stiff body hair standing erect on the back and shoulders attentive staring at the stranger or nuisance object When you see your dog showing these signs, move away from the stimulus stranger. Hold the treat in front of their nose so they can smell and see the treat. As he looks at the treat and walks past or away from the stranger, give him the treat before he has time to bark. You are looking to get their attention away from the distraction. Check out the following for the best German Shepherd training commands for the ultimate in behavior modification. Remember that learning a new behavior takes time, especially a self-rewarding behavior like barking. This means your dog may take weeks and weeks of training to curb its desire to bark at strangers. Keep rewarding them with pea-size pieces of soft treats when outdoors and when they look at you and sit or performs a command you ask , instead of barking. Territorial and alarm barking arise when your dog sees or hears something that excites them. This is why your German Shepherd barks at the living room window or along the fence as strangers walk by. The fastest method to stop barking at the window or in the yard is to control their environment. In your yard, install privacy fencing or place reed fencing to fill in the gaps in the fence and cut off views to adjoining yards or activity in the street. Indoors, leave the curtains or blinds closed. Keep your dog away from the areas where strangers walk past, like your front door and rooms near the street or sidewalk. If your dog barks at strange noises, then install a white noise machine to help blur the background sounds that cause them to bark. Use this guide to exercise your German Shepherd and meet their physical needs to reduce unwanted behavior. Changing a self-rewarding behavior like barking at strangers can take weeks or months of diligent practice. Many forward-thinking German Shepherd owners, like yourself, who want to teach their dogs to listen to them and avoid unwanted behaviors with positive training did so by joining an online training program that uses scientifically-backed protocols found in the online Brain Training for Dogs program. Imagine learning how to control your German Shepherd with kindness, compassion, and science. The step-by-step obedience videos help teach your dog to listen to you and, with time and training, to listen to your quiet command and stop them from barking at strangers. Take a moment to look over the online training program and learn how to use brain training for better behavior. You and your dog deserve a break from their barking to have some fun! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Okay, some breeds don't, but only a few sticklers will argue against the statement "Dogs bark. Some of us know more than others just how bad it can be, especially if you live in a neighborhood with close neighbors, or an apartment. So, what can you do about it? First off, dogs bark for a plethora of reasons. To fix the behavior, you have to start with the problem, and the problem is "Why. The average dog sleeps around 11 hours a day. A tired dog is less likely to bark when you're away at work, so make sure your dog has an adequate amount of physical and mental exercise before you leave. Another big reason is a lack of socialization. A dog that has had positive experiences with people during the socialization process and is taught to ignore them as background noise won't bark at everyone as they simply make their way down the street. Sometimes, something as simple as meeting the mail carrier in a positive way is enough to get a dog to stop barking at them. Use this method to include all different types of people of varying ages and any contraptions that they may be associated with, like bicycles and skateboards, etc. Don't respond to demands from your dog. If your dog barks or whines in the crate, the door doesn't open until they're quiet. If they bark at you to get a treat, you don't give them a treat until they're quiet. A lot of people train their dog to bark at the door to go out, only to realize their dog likes to come in and go outside nonstop. They end up barking all day long. So be careful to not only not respond to their demands when they bark, but not to create your own barking Frankenstein's Monster! This may seem counterproductive considering what I just said about being careful not to create your own Frankenstein's Monster of barking, but.Hear me out before you judge! Teaching a dog to bark on command isn't teaching your dog to bark for no reason or a reason that they choose when to use. You use your command for them to bark when you want them to, they bark, you reward. If you're diligent in your work of training your dog, your dog surely knows what "no" means. Instead of saying "bark," when they bark without you asking them to, say "no bark. Using a "quiet" command is similar to a "no bark" command but a little different. The first entails teaching to control a dog's barking in a roundabout way. Teaching a "quiet" command is a bit more negative, but nothing extreme at all. It simply involves waiting for them to bark and saying in a firm voice "quiet. When they do that, reward. If they start barking again, repeat the process. If that sounds too easy, or you think you know it won't work on your dog, you might be right. But no worries, you just have to find a way to break their concentration from barking to giving their attention back to you having your dog's attention is called "engagement". If a firm, yet normal voiced "quiet" doesn't work in getting them to turn their head to look at you, say it a bit louder and sharp. If that doesn't work, whistle. That'll be your "quiet" command, then reward when they look to you. If that doesn't work, put a long leash and collar on them, when they bark, correct them while saying "quiet. We already went over boredom and anxiety, but what if the exercise doesn't work? No worries, there's a solution for that! T oys and puzzle games. Fill a Kong with treats mixed with peanut butter and freeze it overnight. You instantly have a toy a dog can play with for hours before getting all of the goodies out of it. Sodapup licking mats also do well in this category. You can also use treat dispensing toys of your dog's choice and leave them around as well. As for anxiety, close the windows and blinds, and leave on the radio or TV. Make it feel and sound like you're home and limit outside stimuli. So do as much as possible to minimize the very presence of such stimuli. Get help. There's a lot of help out there for you. If your dog is good for half the day because you go on a morning run, but starts barking halfway through the day? It may suit you and your dog better to hire a dog walker. If you're out of your depth training wise, that's okay too. You can always hire a trainer or look into doggy daycares. If you find a tip or trick or technique or toy or idea that works for you, that isn't found here in the span of this article, that's great! Share it in the comments! Share this article while you're at it. If you love dogs, and dog training, and you don't learn something new every day, make that a new goal. There's always something else to try, or one more thing you can do to fix an issue, or lessen the symptoms of it at the very least. Don't give up! Thank you for reading, and please leave a like and share. German Shepherd Barking: Curse or Blessing? Is your German Shepherd barking too much? And yet…do you secretly like that he is keeping the burglars away? Following, I want to share with you tips and techniques that can help you have peace and quiet as well as protection from your German Shepherd dog. The secret, and I will spill it out now, is to use positive training methods. These are efficient, fun and can be used to raise a dependable and friendly dog that will bark on command if needed. I have met several German Shepherd dog owners that tell me they want their dog to be friendly with kids, family and friends -but not with strangers. This is a hard concept to understand, specially if you are a dog. Besides, you do NOT want a dog capable of hurting people near kids, family and friends. I think this is a pretty neat compromise that is also fairly easy to train. Stop nuisance German Shepherd barking If you found this page, it is entirely possible that your hound already has a barking problem you would like to fix before moving on to teaching him to bark on command. This is an important step because, although many barking problems are mild, some do require special attention. For example, German Shepherd barking due to anxiety is something that needs to be properly addressed to help the animal relax and be friendly around anyone, specially friends and family. If, after reading this section, you realize your dog has a true aggression problem and barking is just the tip of the iceberg, I highly recommend you find a professional and positive dog trainer in your area to help you one-one-one - Search the APDT for one near you. Step 1: Why is my German Shepherd barking? You must become a detective and figure out why is your dog barking. Below you will find some of the most common reasons and links to step-by-step tutorials to solve barking in your GSD. Observe your pet carefully, make notes, ask neighbors and family members what they have seen. Pay attention to what is happening in the environment that triggers barking: what is the body language of your German Shepherd telling you? This will help you get an accurate diagnosis and choose the right training program. Step 2: Use the appropriate training program to stop German Shepherd barking! The following barking problems should be addressed before formally teaching your dog to bark on command and sometimes this is not recommended at all. Fearful German Shepherd barking German Shepherd anxiety may first appear as a barking problem. These are dogs that are truly afraid of something and pushing them to face their fears will only make matters worse. The best techniques involve slowly teaching your dog to change the emotion state of fear to one of joy in the presence of the fear trigger. Most fearful dogs will never become completely relaxed, so you will always need to be on the alert and manage the environment to prevent aggression from arising. I highly recommend you do not train a fearful dog to attack or bark on command. Resource guarding in German Shepherd dogs Also known as food aggression, resource guarding is a type of fear, in this case it is the fear of loosing something. Common things dogs will guard are toys, furniture, and even the owner. Follow this link for more information on this issue. Stress and anxiety barking in German Shepherd dogs Dogs can become stressed just like we do and high stress levels can trigger excessive barking. This link talks about common stressors and how to get rid of them. The barking problems mentioned below can be addressed at the same time as you teach your dog to bark on command. In fact, you will be using your hounds natural barking to start training it. So, find the category your dog falls into, read the corresponding article and then come back and read the step-by-step guide to teach your dog to bark on command Step 3. This is important because you will most likely be doing steps 2 and 3 at the same time. I am so joyful about life I need to bark! These are dogs that may bark at the doorbell, out of excitement when you are trying to put the leash on, or they bark at other dogs to make social contact rude, but social nonetheless. A good dose of impulse control exercises and providing a different source for energy outlet can go a long way! German Shepherd barking to alert of a possible intruder! I left this one for last because although it can become nuisance barking, this is the kind of barking most owners want in their German Shepherd dog. This article explains how to tone it down if it is upsetting you or the neighbors too much! German Shepherd barking for attention! Most dogs like attention, some clever dogs can even train their owners to get it on demand! Take away the attention while the dog is barking or teach an incompatible obedience command to solve this problem! Bored German Shepherd barking You must understand that German Shepherd dogs were bred to work in the fields all day long every day of the year! Start entertaining your bored pet with these ideas! Step 3: Train your German Shepherd to bark on command! Now that you have solved any problematic and excessive German Shepherd barking problem, it is time to teach your dog to do it only when asked to. Practice, patience and consistency will ensure your hound responds reliably. By now, you must have figured out what makes your dog bark and you will use this to make him speak! The example below is for doorbell barking dogs, but you can adapt the protocol as needed and use the barking trigger that makes your dog talk. You will need: 1 helper, barking trigger available, treats. Your dog will most likely bark at the sound of the doorbell! It is time to reward your dog! Say your marker word and maybe rub your pooch under his chin, but avoid the use of food treats we will need them for the quiet part! Barking is usually fun on itself for dogs, that is why praise is usually enough. As soon as he is quiet use your marker word for praise and then give him the treat. You are using the training method capturing for both commands. Repetition is what helps your dog understand what you are asking of him. Repeat the above steps times for a few days. It's kind of like training "stay" , but with shush instead. To test it, ask your helper to ring the bell with a few seconds of delay to give the dog time to process and respond to your voice command instead. Your GSD understands the command when he barks after you say it but before the doorbell sound or whatever trigger appears. For a command to be reliable , you must also practice it without the trigger and in many different situations: different times of the day, different places, with different people approaching, different background noises, etc. The idea is to help him understand under which circumstances it is OK to bark and when it is not. Be consistent: always ask him to bark when someone walks through the lawn, and always ask him to quiet if someone simply walks on the sidewalk. German Shepherds can be protective over their house and their family, so they want us to know when there is someone nearby that is a stranger. Barking because the doorbell rang Another common reason why dogs go crazy barking is because the doorbell rang. Dogs have learnt to associate the doorbell sound with someone sometimes a stranger being at the door. Thus, when the doorbell rings they immediately start barking to let us know someone is at our place. Funny story about my German Shepherd and the doorbell. One time we were taking a road trip to visit my mother, and there was a commercial on the radio that had a doorbell ringing. Allie immediately went to barking! Barking in excitement Another common reason dogs bark is because they are excited. This is why when their favorite person or doggy friend comes over, they go to barking like crazy because they know playtime is coming. Barking due to boredom German Shepherds can also bark because they are bored. That could include barking at everything they see outside or just barking to try and get you to notice them. A tired dog is a quiet dog! Barking to gain your attention Another reason German Shepherds bark is to gain our owners attention. Barking because they sense a threat GSDs will also bark if they sense something or someone that is threating. Dogs also have a good sense of judgment for bad situations and people with bad intentions, so sometimes they bark at times when you may not sure why because they sensed a threat from someone or something. Barking to get you to play or go outside German Shepherds are playful dogs. How to stop your German Shepherd from barking too much? One of the best ways to teach your dog how to control their barking is actually to train them how to speak on command. Once they have learned how to speak on command, you can also teach them the quiet command which will get them to stop barking on command. Check out my article on teaching your dog to speak and quiet to learn more. How to tell if your German Shepherd is barking aggressively? You can usually tell if your German Shepherd is barking aggressively, by the tone of their bark, their body language and the situation. The tone of an aggressive bark will typically be lower in key and your GSD will be more intently focused on the target they are barking at. Additionally, their body language will be stiff, the hair may stand up on their back scruff and they may even growl or show their teeth. Sometimes you can also tell if your GSD is a barking aggressively by the situation. Check out my article discussing whether German Shepherds are aggressive , you may be surprised to learn that aggression is often misinterpreted. Final Thoughts German Shepherds being a vocal breed can definitely bark more than other less vocal dog breeds. However, it is important to remember that barking, like whining , growling , and howling is just one of the ways German Shepherds communicate with the outside world. Depending on your living situation having a chatty dog breed is definitely one of the things you should consider before getting a German Shepherd. Also, remember that good training is the best way to quell barking that becomes too excessive. Does your German Shepherd bark a lot? Let me know in the comments!

These sizes reflect the weight and height, from the smallest to the biggest. Speaking of temperament, we need to look at the following question before we go any further… Are Pitbulls Aggressive? Yes, and no! To answer the question fully, we need to look to the past. The Pitbull breeds were originally created for fighting, so aggression was encouraged. However, these dogs were also bred to be loyal and affectionate towards their owners. All Pitbull breeds are descended from the Old English Bulldog, which is now extinct. Bulldogs were created for the bloodsport of bull-baiting, where bulls were placed in a ring while dogs attacked them. Some were forced to fight against each other. Some were placed in pits where they had to catch and kill as many rats as possible. The pit that was used for fighting is where the Pit Bull name came from, as new breeds based on the Bulldog were created for these bloodthirsty pastimes. These were Pit Bull Dogs, shortened to Pitbull over the years. Why is all this relevant? Because these dogs had to be aggressive if they wanted to survive, and large amounts of money were at stake. They possessed a trait known as gameness, which gave them the instinct to fight to win or to die in the attempt. Eventually, dogfighting was also outlawed in most places, but continued illegally as it does today, unfortunately. However, as these dogs began to be bred as companions rather than for fighting, their gentler nature emerged. The vast majority of Pitbulls today have, thankfully, never seen a fighting pit and never will. They have been used as working dogs on farms, especially across the U. Are they aggressive? Well, they have the potential to be aggressive, as do most dogs. Any dog that is fearful, in pain, feels threatened, or has been abused may show aggression at some point. Pitbulls from fighting lines, that is, one or both parents were bred for fighting, will certainly be more predisposed towards aggression. However, Pitbull pups from an ethical, responsible, and reputable breeder will be far less likely to be. A well-adjusted, properly trained, and socialized Pitbull is a joy to behold and a pleasure to be around. So, are Pitbulls aggressive? In the past, they definitely were. Some still are today, but these are unfortunate creatures that were either bred for fighting or mistreated and in pain. This has a bearing on our Pitbull Poodle mix, as many of you will understandably be keen to know whether this unique designer dog might also be aggressive. Photo from: wild. Some people call it the Pit Boodle, or simply the Boodle. Others use the name Pitbull Poo, or the Pitdoodle. Which one is your favorite? Can you think of another? Pit Boodle seems to be the most popular at present, though whether this remains the case is yet to be seen. In the future, it may be that some of these breeds become established and accepted as purebred dogs. Photo from: rubythundr Without a doubt, the Pit Boodle makes an amazing family companion. She has the strength, loyalty, and affection of the Pittie, and the intelligence and humor of the Poodle. Will she be aggressive? This depends on how you treat her! Dog aggression towards humans is almost always a result of bad treatment. True dog lovers rarely have a problem with aggressive dogs. She might sneak off to find a quiet place on the 4th of July or any other occasion when fireworks are being set off. Looking for a kid-friendly dog? Then, the Pitbull Poodle mix might be the one for you, as they adore being around young children. Her lively, energetic nature, and her ability to form strong bonds with family members very quickly make her an ideal family dog, even for first-time dog owners. You should always use positive reinforcement when training, as this brings the best results. This breed will not respond well to harsh words and shouts. The curly Poodle coat tends to be a looser curl, making it easier to brush out the loose hair. A good family pet? Pitbull Poodle Mix Breeders Photo from: mylittlefurfamily One of the most important aspects of getting a puppy is the place where you buy it. You must be certain that the parent dogs have been cared for and kept in good conditions. Look for a small-scale, local breeder if possible. Visit them and ask if you can take a look around the kennels. Ask lots of questions, and check whether they have health screening and a health guarantee. Be prepared to answer any question about your home and lifestyle, as a good breeder will want to know where their precious pups are going! Avoid buying online at all costs. This is a major outlet for puppy mills, where dogs are produced simply to make money. Pet stores and backyard breeders are also best avoided for the same reasons. You should steer clear of anyone who plays on the fact that a dog is rare, as they are using this to justify charging more. Check out reviews for breeders online to see what ordinary people have to say about them. Take your time about it, and never be rushed into making a decision! Pitbull Poodle Mix Adoption One way to avoid breeders and potential puppy mills altogether is to head down to your local rescue center or dog shelter. Fees are usually higher if they include things like spaying and neutering, vaccinations, etc. This is because selective breeding in purebred dogs, sometimes over hundreds of years, has narrowed the gene pool, resulting in a range of genetic defects. Mixing two breeds sometimes avoids this by injecting fresh genes into the hybrid pups, making them much healthier than their purebred cousins. Even so, there is still a possibility that your Pitbull Poodle mix might suffer from some of the following conditions: Hip dysplasia — A malformed hip joint that makes it painful for the dog to walk. Ear infections — These are common in most dog breeds, especially those with floppy ears. Ear wax can build up and dirt gets stuck inside the ear canal. This provides a warm, moist environment for bacteria to thrive in, leading to infections. Heart disease — This one is always a cause for concern! There are several different types of heart disease, but Toy Poodles and Miniature Poodles are particularly prone to dilated cardiomyopathy the heart becomes enlarged, thin, and weak, and is unable to pump the blood properly. In Pitties, the main heart problem is aortic stenosis. Dogs with this condition have a narrow aorta, meaning that the heart has to work harder. It is treatable, but can lead to heart failure. Obesity — Extra weight puts strain on the heart and joints. It can also lead to diabetes and cancer. Obesity often happens in old age, when dogs are less active but still eating the same amount of food as they did when they were younger and fitter. It is always best to feed your dog the appropriate amount of food according to its age and activity level. The Pitbull Poodle mix has a lifespan of between 9 and 15 years. Why is there such a big difference? Small dogs generally live longer than big dogs, so the hybrids that use the Miniature and Toy Poodles will probably live longer. The larger Pitbulls, such as the American Pitbull Terrier and the American Bully, account for the lower end of the scale, as they can be pretty big dogs. These two breeds have a lifespan of between 8 and 12 years. So, how can you make sure that your Pit Boodle sticks around for at least 15 years? First, find a good breeder! As we mentioned above in the section about breeders and several times elsewhere! Second, you need to feed your pup good-quality dog food , only give it healthy treats, and make sure that it has plenty of exercise. You should also take it for regular check-ups at the vet, as this will help to identify any potential problems early. Nevertheless, you need to remember the general rule that the bigger the dog, the shorter its lifespan. Pitbull Poodle Mix Price Photo from: mylittlefurfamily This is a rare crossbreed, which may affect the price. All of these factors will affect the final price! This means that any price we suggest here will be a rough estimate based on the limited information available. This proves the point that many factors influence the price of puppies, but you should never be tempted to go for the cheapest option without thoroughly checking out the breeder. A pup that is sold at a bargain price may not be healthy, which is why the seller wants a quick sale. However, someone could try to sell you a puppy at a premium price to trick you into believing that it is of the best quality. Sadly, there are too many unscrupulous people out there. Shop around, do your homework, and keep your wits about you. Some people say it is, others disagree! To be fair, both may be right. It all depends on which particular breeds are involved and which genes are dominant in the offspring. In many cases, a Pit Boodle has a curly coat like the Poodle parent, which is famous for its hypoallergenic qualities. Then again, the pup may favor the Pitbull side, with its short, smooth coat type — although this is quite rare. We also need to keep in mind that hypoallergenic simply means that the dog is less likely to cause an allergic reaction than some other breeds. In Summary Photo from: dogsoffleashes Who would have thought that you could mix the Poodle and the Pitbull? But, is this the doggy friend of your dreams? Its appearance will vary depending on which size of Poodle and which Pitbull breed was used. It could be as small as 15 inches or as tall as 24 inches. It could weigh as little as 30 pounds or as much as 70 or even 80 pounds. This dog will need at least 45 minutes of exercise each day, as well as some quality playtime. It is great with kids, especially after being properly socialized. Your Pit Boodle will probably have a dense, smooth coat that could be black, blue, gray, fawn, silver, cream, brown, cafe-au-lait, or brindle. If you do find that it becomes too much for you, try using a professional groomer. This is a good idea once in a while anyway, as it keeps your dog looking in top condition. It sounds like an unlikely combination, but the Pitbull Poodle mix is already making waves, and it looks like it might become popular. Fans of traditional breeds are fearful that hybrids will make purebred dogs extinct. It has to be said that this is a real possibility in some cases, as trends and fashions change. The main issue here is that whatever breeds are available, they are healthy, loved, and cared for. Related Links:. Brush their teeth regularly even if chewable treats are given and take them to the vet from time to time to ensure that your health habits are checked and okay for your pitbull poodle mix. If you give your dog table food, chances are, it will develop illnesses brought about by human food. Opt to stick to dog food pellets, soft meat, etc. Bloating: this is a common thing among different breeds. Bloating leads to gastric dilatation-volvulus if not addressed immediately and may lead to death. Hip dysplasia: Poodles are prone to have joint dysplasia most commonly in the hip and pelvic area. This occurrence happens when joints pop out of the socket, causing immense pain for the hybrid. Pitbull Crossed With Poodle Food Requirements Make it a point to ensure and prioritize the type of food you allow your dog to eat because this will significantly affect its longevity of life and health status. Take note of the size and needs of each breed it came from so you may plan a specific diet for your hybrid. Treats are good for training as well but refrain from making it a daily habit to lessen weight gain. Make sure you choose snacks that have low caloric content. Take note of the nutrients needed to ensure a proper diet. Always choose foods that are rich in protein, as they are high energy dogs. Make sure to avoid typical dog allergens such as wheat, corn, and potatoes. Your dog might be prone to skin diseases as well, and its best to strictly follow feeding instructions. If you look hard enough, the market offers a lot of high-quality foods you can give your pitbull poodle mix. Instinct takes pride in improving the coat of any dog that stays on their dog food for a while. High-energy dogs will surely benefit from all the protein this brand gives. It also contains oat fiber for proper digestion, and dried cranberries, blueberries, and spinach as antioxidants. It includes chicken, fish, and whitefish meal. Antioxidants such as Vitamin E, beta carotene, fruits, and vegetables are incorporated to boost the immune system. Oatmeal, barley, brown rice, and rye are included to promote digestion and L-carnitine for fat burning. Their product has natural microorganisms to help aid digestion in line with the incorporation of lentils as a fiber source. Considering that your gorgeous mixed breed is a medium-size dog, you can offer them either the best dry dog food for small dogs or the best large breed dry dog food — it may surprise you to find out which parent they take their taste for food after! Whichever brand you settle on, make sure that it is only the best dry dog food kind as going for the worst dry dog food may have dire consequences on the overall health of your pooch. Pitbull Poodles Exercise Requirements Your boodle is a product of two very different breeds: one is highly active, and the other focuses more on the intellectual aspect so it would be best to choose equipment or toys that can exercise them physically, as well as train their minds and awaken their sensitivity. Make sure you schedule play time with your dogs, whether its walking or running or playing in the park to ensure that they have a healthy lifestyle. You can also incorporate exercise in your home. Try playing hide and seek or fetch in your backyard, anything to keep your dog going and panting. Physical and mental exercises are essential to avoid putting your boodle in an idle state, which can lead to depression, boredom, and destruction. Try your best to plan any form of activity that will keep your pups active physically and mentally. To improve your exercise regimen, here are some toys you can purchase: Canine Hardware Chuckit! Classic Launchers: This is perfect for the non-athletic, stay at home type of owners. This product is also ideal for the energetic side of your hybrid, without giving you the sore arm from repeatedly throwing the ball. FluffyPal Chew Toys For Puppies Small Dogs And Medium Dogs: This product is an all-in-one type because it can be a teething toy which can remove tartar, a potential favorite toy, and it also has a vanilla scent to counter any dog drool smell. Not only does it exercise your hybrid, but it also teaches it about rewards and positive outcomes when they follow a command. Hear Doggy! With the balanced need for exercise, you can choose to specify activities that will enhance their physical and mental abilities. Make sure you have enough space for them to run around and play. So this can be a bit of a challenge because you need to exercise both aspects. Pit bulls tend to exercise wanting the alpha position, which needs training that involves firmness, confidence, and a strong will. A poodle is an intelligent type and will be a bit challenging to train, so they need more patience and understanding. Always start training once you establish what you want and need for your pup. Train your puppies before reaching a year old, starting from simple commands until more difficult ones. Here are tips to make training easier for your boodle: Plan What You Want To Teach: To avoid confusion for your dog, make sure you have a plan as to what commands you want your dog to learn. Schedule Shorter Sessions: The reason for this is to have a higher attention span. If you think long sessions bore your hybrid, cut them down to at least 30 minutes to an hour to ensure, you have their full attention. Practice Positive Reinforcement: a poodle is an intelligent breed, and they remember when you praise them for doing something right. They tend to be shy and aggressive towards new people, which might be the case for your boodle. You can visit the vet and ask for tips, or you can bring them to the park until they familiarize themselves with different people and dogs as well. Potty Training: This is an essential type of training for almost all dogs. It saves you effort and money, and it also lessens the stress of accidentally stepping on unwanted stuff. Throughout history, pit bulls are known and recognized as dangerous and aggressive. On the other hand, poodles require mental stimulation and constant socialization. A mix of the two breeds will still require socialization training. Your pitbull poodle mix can be stubborn at times, but they are also easy to train. Make it a habit to remind family members that your dog needs to exercise, so that you can take turns as to who will take the dog out for a walk. Having a big space is ideal for the energetic side of your dog. Goldendoodles are a mix between Golden Retrievers and Poodles. All mixed breeds are unique, but the Goldendoodle and Pit Bull mix is genuinely one of a kind. Its parent breeds are vastly different in appearance, temperament, and size. The Pit Bull is stocky with thick muscles and a square, flat face. It has a short, bristly coat. The Goldendoodle is tall, long, and lean. It has a long, curly coat often defined by its shimmering gold or deep red color. Not only are both parent breeds different in size and appearance, but they also come from very different backgrounds. This is quite common for mixed breeds, especially Doodle breeds. Fortunately, the parent breeds of the Golden Pit Boodle have a rich history that stretches back hundreds of years. We can learn a lot about this new, unique mixed breed by learning about its ancestors. The breed originated in England in the s. As an intentional cross between a Terrier and a Bulldog, the Pit Bull was bred to be a fighter. Violent sports such as bull baiting and bear baiting were common amongst the poorer English communities. The country eventually banned the baiting of animals. Ratting was a sport in which rats were placed in a pit, and people would bet on how many rats a dog would be able to hunt and kill. The cross between a Terrier and Bulldog created a nimble, athletic, and ferocious dog. Pit Bulls helped hunt game and herd livestock in their early years in America. Pit Bulls were eventually introduced to the United States. Their skill and aggression made them the perfect fit for dog fighting. Pit Bulls had other roles in America as well. They helped hunters, farmers, and families. Their checkered past has lived on with them over the decades. Even though dog fighting is illegal in all 50 states, Pit Bulls still carry the reputation for fighting. Despite their reputation, Pit Bulls are friendly towards their family and children. If raised correctly, this strong-willed dog can be an excellent addition to any household. The American Kennel Club does not recognize Pit Bulls due to their historical affiliation with dog fighting. The breed was developed to be aggressive, but it has been proven that they can be pretty sweet given the proper training and environment. These bans affect living communities such as apartments and condos, but they can also affect cities, states, and countries. All this is to say that the Pit Bull comes with some baggage. I have met Pit Bulls and Pit-mixes that are gentle and sweet. My own Bernedoodle has played with these dogs plenty of times. Their aggressive nature can be overcome and is by no means a dominant trait for every dog of this breed. Goldendoodle It is believed that Goldendoodles were first bred by Monica Dickens, the great-granddaughter of the English author: Charles Dickens, in .The recognition of the Goldendoodle came about because of the success of the Labradoodle hybrid breed. Breeders started mixing Golden Retrievers and Poodles intentionally to create a similarly successful hybrid breed [1] rover. Goldendoodles have surged in popularity due to their sweet temperament and adorable looks. They inherit great qualities from both parent breeds: the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. At the time, hunting was becoming a trendy sport in Scotland and England. This particular mix was bred with the intent to aid hunters in the retrieval of waterfowl and upland hunting. Upland hunting refers to the hunting of upland game, which are non-waterfowl birds such as pheasants, quail, grouse, etc [2] orvis. Golden Retrievers are still used in hunting but have become one of the most popular household pets in the United States and the world. Their sweet-temperament intelligence makes them a great choice to be used as a service dog, guide dog, or therapy dog. Poodle Poodle originated in Germany in the s. They were bred to be waterfowl hunters. The iconic Poodle cut was developed to give the breed versatility while keeping warm in the frigid European rivers and lakes. Often mistaken as French natives, these water dogs gained popularity across Europe for their athleticism and intelligence. The standard Poodle was eventually bred down in size to create the Miniature Poodle. The Mini Poodle was used as a circus dog in some parts of Europe. Once the Poodle was introduced to America, it was bred down further to create the Toy Poodle. The Toy Poodle was ideal for city dwellers since they were small and easy to carry around. As one of the most intelligent dog breeds, the Poodle, of all sizes, has enjoyed popularity worldwide. Appearance The appearance of the Goldendoodle-Pit Bull mix varies on a few different factors. The most significant factor will be the parents of the litter. The parents will be the best way to determine the size and appearance of the puppies. A male Goldendoodle could be used as the stud, or a male Pit Bull could be used as the stud. The same is true for the mother of the litter, or dam. The generation of Goldendoodle that is used for breeding will affect both size and appearance. For example, an F2 Goldendoodle might produce a litter that has more wavy or curly hair. Goldendoodles also come in different sizes based on the size of the Poodle parent. Without going further, you can see that the parents will determine the size of a Golden Pit Boodle. For this section, I will assume the appearance and size of a standard Golden Pit Boodle. Most often, Doodle dogs will have inherited curly or wavy hair from the Poodle. In this case, the Golden Pit Boodle coat is medium-length with curls or waves. The Goldendoodle has a long, curly coat. The Pit Bull has a short, glossy coat. On rare occasions the Pit Bull can have a long coat — which is called a fluffy Pit Bull. The mix of the two creates a medium coat that is wavy or curly. Coat Colors.

What Is A Merle Pug? The merle Pug is just as much Pug as any other specimen of this breed. Merle puppies are still Pugs with the same body and temperament characteristics as fawn or black Pugs. The issue with the merle coat is that it does not occur naturally with this dog breed. The merle coat is a result of gene manipulation either by accident or on purpose. Those patches are often blue or gray, and appear a bit washed-up. You may recognize them as blue merle Pugs. The base coat is not a solid color. Although merle is simply a stunning coat pattern, it brings along many potential problems, and a wide list of hereditary genetic conditions. Now, I want to discuss the origin of merle Pugs. When did they first appear? Do we know who the first merle pug was? Pugs are an ancient breed. These days, planned breeding is what breeders use in order to achieve the desired coat. Merle Pugs are all the rage. And, let me tell you something — this business is booming! About The Merle Color The merle color is a result of specific genes. Canine experts call those genes M genes. Remember when I told you that the merle coat pattern can occur naturally with some dog breeds, like Collies? So, how does the merle gene occur with the Pug dog breed? Are those Pugs really purebred dogs? The merle gene has to be introduced from another dog breed. Dogs that are carriers of the merle gene were probably used in the breeding process some time in the past, which has resulted in merle Pug puppies. This is a long process, and it does not guarantee success every time. Also, merle Pugs can be crossed with other Pugs to achieve a spotted coat. Transferring The Merle Gene Photo from: patternedpugz When it comes to the merle gene, we can tell apart two different merles: the big M and the little m. The entire merle coat depends on the combination of these merle genes. The m gene from the other parent does not have to be present. Also, two M genes are of a certain merle coat — sadly, a double merle. You can avoid the merle coat if your puppy inherits two sets of the m gene and no M genes at all. How Healthy Are Merle Pugs? Pugs are small dogs with thin legs, and yet, a sturdy body. The first thing that many dog owners notice about Pugs is their smushy face. This condition stands for Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome , and it affects the upper airways. But, this is something that all Pugs experience. Are there conditions specifically linked to merle Pugs only? One of the biggest potential health issues for merle Pugs is deafness. Hearing problems can affect one or both ears. They can vary in intensity from partial deafness to complete loss of hearing. Hand in hand with deafness comes blindness. The same rules apply to blindness: one or both eyes, and partial or complete blindness. These are conditions that your merle Pug can live with. Pugs are known for having many skin hot spots. Their coat is super short and sleek, wrinkly, and prone to infections. Because of the lack of melanin in the spotted areas, merle Pugs are highly prone to hypersensitivity to sunlight. Merle Pugs can easily get sunburns, which can, unfortunately, lead to skin cancer. Applying sunscreen on your merle Pug is not ridiculous. I encourage you to do so every time you go out in the sun, when the UV index is super high. When we talked about breeding merle Pugs to non-merle Pugs or standard Pugs earlier, we mentioned that those dogs may or may not turn merle. When breeding two Pugs that are merle, you increase the chance that the puppies will be merle, too. Breeding of two merles results in puppies that are known as double merles. Double merle Pugs are almost always ill. Rarely does any double merle puppy end up being happy and healthy. Double merles are born with severe vision impairment, some are even missing their eyes altogether! I would never recommend getting a double merle Pug puppy. How Rare Are Merle Pugs? Of all the Pug colors including apricot, black, silver, and fawn, the non-recognized color is the rarest. As I mentioned earlier, it takes a lot of effort, time, and dedication to get a merle dog. And, for what? For having a Pug that may or may not be severely ill? No, thank you! PupVine promotes health over physical appearance any time. Good luck finding a merle Pug whose owner is ready to breed him or her. Are Merle Pugs Expensive? Well, this is a surprise! Merle Pugs are usually more pricey than other Pug colors. I find it hard to believe why someone would price potentially ill puppies higher than perfectly sound dogs of standard colors. The only reason I can see such an approach is profit, and profit only. Adding the adjective exotic always plumps up the price of the puppy, and makes people want it more. In fact, such people are very proud of having merle Pugs because they believe all the other dog owners envy them. Being proud of the merle coat is a bit ridiculous. Every dog owner wants a healthy puppy to spend lots of happy years with. So, to sum up everything: please avoid the merle Pug and pick any other approved Pug color. November 11, 1. Merle is a very interesting and exotic looking fur pattern present in some dogs breeds. It is a pattern in the fur rather than a fur color. This pattern expresses itself as random dark patches of fur over a lighter solid or piebald coat. Merle is not a naturally occurring color for pugs. The merle coloring is not a naturally occurring color and it needs to be bred in over generations to maintain the pug look but with different coloring. That trophy goes to brindle. Most pugs are usually either fawn or black. Merle Pugs are not purebred If you breed two purebred pugs together you will never be able to produce a merle puppy. So, for pugs to be merle they must have one or more ancestors who have been bred with another dog breed that does have the merle gene. Some people may think that merle pugs are purebred because they still look the same as other pugs but this is just due to the careful introduction of the merle gene and selective reproduction to maintain the pug look, but with the merle fur pattern. If you consider this is for a healthy, purebred fawn or black pug, then a merle pug should not cost more than this! However, there are some dishonest and tricky sellers out there who market merle pugs as exotic, rare and trendy to try and get a higher profit. Merle Pugs do not have additional health problems compared to regular pugs Merle pugs are just the same as regular pugs but with different color fur. This is a standard merle pug with the genes Mm. These pugs do not have any additional health problems however, the presence of the merle gene does increase the chances of pugs developing the health conditions usually associated with them. The pug breed alone has some significant health conditions that should be taken into consideration. These health concerns may include: Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome BOAS : This can cause severe breathing difficulties due to their flat faces Eye problems: including dry eye and corneal ulcers Hip Dysplasia Skin Infections Pug Dog Encephalitis: This condition can cause blindness and a host of other ailments and can eventually be fatal If you wanted to take a look at this in more detail check out the PDSA website. All of these health concerns are for any pug, including merle pugs. Double merle is what happens when you breed one merle dog with another merle dog. In any case, double merle dogs have a much greater chance of developing health conditions. It usually involves blindness and deafness due to a lack of pigment in the eyes and ears. Some extra splotches of dark fur on their back. Regular fawn or black pugs are expected to live between 12 and 15 years, however, the presence of the merle gene does increase the probability of pugs developing some serious health conditions and it can exacerbate some conditions that pugs already surfer from. However, a double merle pug would certainly pose some ethical problems due to all the health issues that they have. Breeding for color When you start breeding dogs for a specific color or a rare color, you start running into some issues. So, what is the verdict? Should you get a merle pug? Is it ethical? Are they rare and exotic? Ultimately, you should never purchase a dog just based on its aesthetic appeal anyway and you should always do your research to figure out if choosing a certain color means that animal will have a poorer quality of life. Sociability The Earliest Records of the Merle Pug in History The Pug is an ancient breed of dog that most likely originates in China where it was bred as a companion pet for wealthy individuals. It is believed that they date back to B. This means that they have the ideal temperament for a companion dog, being generally happy, and always happiest when they are allowed to spend as much time as possible around their humans. They did not require a lot of exercise, were small and easy to keep, and they were generally amenable little dogs. This led to the Pug not only becoming popular with everyday people but also with some prominent figures. Formal Recognition of the Merle Pug Pugs are generally recognized by most kennel clubs, but the Merle Pug is not, because it cannot be a purebred Pug and there are some concerns over the health implications of breeding the merle gene into the dog. The Kennel Club accepts silver, apricot, fawn, or black colored pugs. They Have Been Life Savers Pugs have long been kept by members of royalty from around the world and, in at least one case, even saved members of the royal family. In , Spanish soldiers attempted to kill Prince William of Orange, the Dutch prince, but his Pug, Pompey, heard the assassins approaching and started barking. This alerted the Prince and his men to the presence of the soldiers and his life was saved. As a result, the Pug became the official breed of the House of Orange. They are the epitome of lap dogs. In reality, the breed originates from China, however, and is more closely related to the Pekingese than any Bulldog. Pugs generally make excellent pets. They are loving and loyal and enjoy spending as much time as possible with their owners. And, they are not only understanding of children but they enjoy the attention and especially enjoy spending time with kids that are old enough to be able to throw a ball or toy around for them. However, it is worth noting that Pugs are somewhat prone to certain health conditions , most of which are related to the brachycephalic face. Pugs may also suffer from weeping eyes. Conclusion Pugs are popular pets and are an ancient breed that originate from around B. Their prowess as companion dogs saw their popularity spread throughout Asia before the dog headed to Europe, where its popularity also spread. Today, the dog is still bred as a lap dog. While the Merle Pug is popular with some owners, it is not recognized as a Pug by kennel clubs because the merle coloring is not naturally occurring in the Pug breed, and it is believed that intentionally breeding it into Pugs can cause health problems. Treatment: Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disorder, leading to death. Merle Pug Diet and Nutrition Merle Pugs are not active dogs which causes them to gain weight quickly. So, you must restrict their feeding thrice a day for 6-month pups while twice a day for puppies aged more than six months. Additionally, limit the number of treats you feed your pet to prevent obesity. For this reason, you may have to keep them covered with jackets or sweaters while taking walks during the colder months. Similarly, their smaller snouts make it difficult for them to adjust to hot weather. For pugs to be merle, one of the parents must have a merle gene. This merle parent could be a Merle Pug or a different dog breed with a merle gene. The resultant offspring may or may not be merle. Additionally, crossing pugs this way leads to genetic mutations and results in health complications. When two Merle dogs mate, they give rise to double merle offspring. These pups have two merle genes which mean they are prone to serious health complications. Hence it is best to avoid buying or breeding these pups. Cost of a Merle Pug Puppy The price of a pug depends on your resident location. Hence, a Merle Pug will not cost more than this range. Merle Pug. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. The Earliest Records of Merle Pugs in History Pugs were first bred and honed into perfect companion dogs around BC, making them one of the oldest breeds of dogs in the world. They were first bred in China, and the flat-face dogs were the chair warmers and close companions of Chinese royalty and the elite. Everyone in the upper circle of society, from Tibetan Monks in their temples to Emperors in their Palaces, the Pug was so revered that they had guards and servants of their own! Then, the breed was refined and resided with British celebrities and royalty. Finally, in the 19th century, the Pug made its way to America, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .They were immediately popular when the breed first emerged in China, and their lovable faces made them a curiosity to the traders who shipped them to Europe. The Pug began to take off in England when the monarchy adopted the breed, with Queen Victoria owning several and passing them down the family line. In the US, the breed was slow to gain popularity. However, with the founding of the Pug Dog Club of America in , the Pug has slowly crept up the ranks. However, only the following colors were accepted by each club: Black Apricot Silver Merle is not a recognized color in any of the major kennel clubs because it does not occur naturally in the breed as it does for others like the Cardigan Corgi. The merle gene is semi-dominant, meaning only one must be inherited from a parent to produce a merle coloring. In addition, double Merle Pugs can also be born with eyes much smaller than normal called microphthalmia , which can leave the dogs blind. These health issues are why breeding merle dogs is a controversial topic, and kennel clubs will never register a double merle dog. Image Credit: Virginia Blount, Shutterstock 3. Pugs also often have trouble giving birth, so the number of puppies could be less than those of another breed. Instead, merle has to be bred in from a breed that can pass on the merle gene, and two purebred Pugs will not be able to produce a merle puppy. Merle Pugs can make loyal, loving, and carefree pets to the right owner, as long as the owner is aware of and able to deal with some of the potential illnesses they can have. Pugs have other well-documented health issues due to having flat faces, including breathing and eye problems. However, owners knowledgeable about what the breed needs regarding care and exercise can have a fun-loving and loyal companion in the Merle Pug. Image Credit: Virginia Blount, Shutterstock Conclusion The Merle Pug is an anomaly in the dog world since the breed does not usually carry the patterning. Merle is a genetically inherited trait that must be bred into Pug lines from other breeds that can pass the gene on naturally. If they are bred responsibly, merle dogs often live normal and happy lives without health issues. Regardless of the controversy surrounding them, Merle Pugs make excellent pets for responsible, caring owners. Photo from Pinterest Merle pugs have a distinctive coat pattern and color. Merle pugs can have blue eyes but it is also possible for their eyes to be of 2 different colors. According to the KC, the acceptable colors for pugs are black, fawn, apricot and silver. This allows breeders to register puppies whose colors are not included in the list of acceptable colors for pugs. They can get their pedigree paperwork and sell the pug puppies as registered pedigree dogs. This option is perfect for breeders with white or brindle pugs. Merle Pug Health Issues Merle pugs can inherit the common health problems associated with this breed such as neurological and spinal issues. A merle pug can have hearing problems in either both or one ear. They may have partially impairedhearing or total deafness. Merle pugs may also have vision problems such as less acute vision and full blindness. The merle coloration is due to poor production of melanin. As such, merle pugs are prone to developing sunlighthypersensitivity, sunburn and skin problems. How Merle is Inherited The merle coat color is achieved by outcrossing the pug breed with other breeds that carry the merle gene. Detrimental genetic mutations may lead to a shortened lifespan or incapacity to reproduce. This is a gene that has been introduced to the breed. This means that a litter may have both non-merle and merle pugs. A pug with 2 merle parents will always have the merle coloring and this is called double merle. If you cross 2 merle pugs, you might havedouble-merle dogs. However, this also increases the risk of the dogs inheriting various health problems. How to Care for a Merle Pug Merle pugs are sturdy, lively and playful. They benefit from moderate exercise such as play sessions or walks. Just remember that they are not good with hot weather due to their short face. As such, they should not do exhausting activities when it is humid or warm outside. Pugs can participate in some dog sports such as rallies, agility and obedience competitions. You can enroll them in puppy training classes to get them used to other dogs and people. Here are some tips on how to take care of your merle pug. You can use small treats to train your pet to obey commands such as come, sit and stay. Pugs find it hard to focus for a long time, so a 5 to minute training session will be enough. Pugs will be able to control their bladder much better when they reach the age of six to seven months. This breed can be lazy and may want to see whether they can get away with relieving themselves inside the house. If you see him sneak behind the curtains or furniture to pee, say no and take him to his designated potty area. Diet Merle pugs should be fed premium dog food. This breed can gain weight easily, so you should watch his weight level and calorieconsumption. Three to six-month pups should be fed 3 times a day. Six-month to one-year old pugs can be given 2 meals every day. Merle Pug Grooming Merle pugs have a short, glossy coat that should be brushed two times a week using a medium-bristle brush. This will help minimize shedding. Trim their nails on a regular basis. Clean their facial wrinkles with a cotton swab dipped in warm water. Their folds collect dust, food and dirt that should be removed immediately. After cleaning the folds, run a cotton swab dipped in petroleum jellyinside theirfacial wrinkles to prevent infections. You can also use a cotton ball or soft tissue to clean the ears and a damp tissue to wipe their nose. If they start scratching their ears,shaking their head or a strong odor is coming from that area, you should take them to the vet because these are signs of an ear infection. Rare dogs like merle pugs are more expensive than other variations. The prices for merle pugs can vary significantly.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Trained Goldendoodles Available! From time to time we have older puppies available that have completed our Puppy Preschool Program with flying colors, These puppies are perfect for families that are wanting a family member already experienced in crate and house training if kept on a schedule and have a great foundation in manners. These puppies also know what a joy it is to learn and take direction from their human, so any further training will come more easily. If you would like to add one of these youngsters to your family, please fill out our P uppy Application. You never know who might be seen there or possible sneak peaks of new puppies! She has a wavy fleece coat and will be around lbs full grown. Lily has a playful energy level. She is absolutely loves toys and is very confident. She has completed her Preschool Training and now knows how to sit, walk on a loose leash, and go in her bed on command. She has also been well socialized and is doing well on her house-training schedule. Candy has a medium energy level. Standard Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Personality The place where the Goldendoodle puppy really excels is its personality. Its breed is known for being simultaneously intelligent and adoring. A Goldendoodle puppy is very sociable, which makes them perfect animals for households with children and other animals or pets, even cats. Just like the Labradoodle, this breed requires correct socialization to ensure they get used to different sights, sounds and smells during puppyhood. This means taking your Goldendoodle to plenty of doggy-friendly parks so they can meet canine friends and introducing them to other people. Our Goldendoodle puppies for sale are fully trained Doodles, so you can focus on the fun bits, like bonding, eating food and playing. These dogs prefer to live in a house with a gated backyard where they can get regular exercise breaks. Do They Like to Play? Goldendoodle Puppy Training These clever dogs are perfect for first-time dog owners because Goldendoodles love to please and take great pride in learning new skills. Are Goldendoodles Intelligent? Both of its poodle and golden retriever parent breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability, and Goldendoodles have inherited this breed trait. This means the person training a Goldendoodle needs to be strong-willed, firm and consistent — but never harsh or aggressive. Much like a poodle, Doodles are sensitive dogs, and positive reinforcement is a must to bring out the best in them. How Obedient Are They? Goldendoodle pups adore human company, and making their pet parents happy brings them genuine satisfaction. As such, correct puppy training produces a highly obedient and loyal adult Goldendoodle. Older adults, people with disabilities and individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders can benefit significantly from the warmth and sweetness of these adorable Goldendoodle pups. Are They Easy to Train? Doodle puppies can be mischievous and cheeky, but aggression is practically unheard of. So as long as you treat them with the same gentle respect they offer, a Goldendoodle is one of the easiest dog breeds to train. Goldendoodles have loads of energy and require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and calm temperament. A Goldendoodle need a moderately high level of outdoor activity — usually a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally one hour, of moderate to vigorous exercise per day will keep Goldendoodle puppies at their best. Unlike puppy mills, all good puppy and dog breeders provide a certificate that shows health clearances. At Pride and Prejudoodles, our tests cover common health conditions. As such, you have peace of mind when purchasing your new puppy from us. How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? Goldendoodles live for between 10 and 15 years. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Goldendoodle puppies for adoption. Born Nov 14th, ready Jan 12th These pup will mature on average 55 pounds. They will experience shedding but not as much as a Golden. Parents are Harrison and Delilah They will mature pounds with wavy to tight wavy coats. Born Aug 26th, Have had their first and second set of shots and Rabies vaccine. Mature Puppies Maeve and Charlie's Mini-Medium Goldendoodle Puppies Born : August 26th Ready: Around Oct 30th These pups are expected to mature on average ish pounds with wavy to curly coats that will experience low to no shedding. The weight and height sizing will likely follow a Bell curve with some pups lending more to Charlie's size 10 lbs , some more Maeve's size, 40 lbs and some a nice average of the two. Maeve is one of our gorgeous Standard Parti Poodles who has a tall petite build weighing only 40 pounds. She is a very loving and sensitive dog who likes to be active and involved in everything the humans are doing. Charlie is a Mini Goldendoodle who is a tiny little gentleman at about 10 lbs. He is such a sweet, lovable, clever and well behaved little dog! We can expect colours in this litter to include: Gold, Red, Brown. List is now open for deposits.

For the complete list please see our German Shepherd page page. The average price for a German Shepherd puppy in New York can vary depending on the breeder. Some breeders may charge more for certain colors or markings. German Shepherds with a normal temperament are more expensive than those who have an aggressive temperament due to health or poor breeding practices. Puppies from working parents tend to be more expensive as well, because of their intelligence and high energy levels which make them excellent service dogs. Some things you may want to ask the breeder include: Are the puppies parents certified free of genetic defects? Do the puppies have a health guarantee? What vaccines and deworming medications have the puppies received? What type of food and exercise do the puppies receive? Can I see the parents of the puppies? How often do the breeders screen for potential health problems in their breeding stock? Do they offer help with training or behavior issues after I take my puppy home? These organizations are full of wonderful dogs who need homes, and most of them are already housebroken and know basic obedience commands. You can see how they are being raised, which will give you an insight into their personalities and temperament. Also, you may have the opportunity to meet the mother of your future puppy which is also important when choosing a breeder. When you buy your puppy from a reputable breeder, you are getting the highest quality GSD that money can buy. You know that their puppies come from healthy parents and have received appropriate vaccinations for their age. The breeder ensures their pups are dewormed, microchipped, and spayed or neutered before they leave for new homes. Good breeders are happy to provide this information because they want you to find the perfect puppy just as much as you do. They will be able to tell you about other families who have purchased puppies in the past and give personal testimonials about their experiences with the breeder. Breeders should offer help long after you take your GSD home. A responsible breeder will have years of experience working with German Shepherds and be able to answer any questions you may have about the breed. When looking for a reputable breeder, always remember that price is not everything. The health and temperament of the puppies should be your top priority when making this important decision. Take your time in finding the perfect breeder and puppy and you will be rewarded with a lifetime of companionship from your new best friend, the German Shepherd. A good breeder will have nothing to hide and will be more than happy to provide you with contact information for families who have purchased puppies from them in the past. References can tell you a lot about a breeder, such as how healthy their puppies are, how well they were socialized, and if the breeder was helpful after the puppy was taken home. When meeting past customers, make sure to ask lots of questions. A reputable breeder will have years of experience working with German Shepherds and be able to answer any questions you may have about the breed. They should also be willing to provide references from past customers and allow you to meet puppies and their parents. The puppies should be healthy, well-socialized, and come from healthy parents. Make sure that the breeder has a good relationship with a veterinarian, as this is a sign of a kennel that cares about the overall health and well-being of their dogs. Good breeders will typically go to their veterinarians for vaccinations, check-ups, and other issues relating to the puppies. Be aware that if your breeder does not have a veterinarian they use or trust, then this may indicate larger problems within their kennel. What kind of facility are they using? Do they have any references from past customers? Do they care about where their puppies end up once you take them home? These questions can help you determine whether or not this is the right German Shepherd breeder for you and your family. A good breeder will be able to answer any questions that the veterinarian may have about the breed and their individual puppies. If they do not have a current relationship with a veterinarian, ask them why? How often do they visit their vet? What kind of services does the veterinarian offer? Is this someone you would trust with the well-being of your German Shepherd? Signs that you may be dealing with an unethical breeder include: The breeder is not willing to provide references from past customers. The puppies are unhealthy or have health problems. The breeder does not have a good relationship with a veterinarian. The puppies are not well socialized. The breeder is asking for more than the average price for a German Shepherd puppy. If you encounter any of these red flags, it is best to walk away and find another breeder who can provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy. It is better for everyone involved to know who the reputable breeders are so that they can be trusted by future families looking for a German Shepherd puppy. All puppies are born with a predisposition to certain health problems, and the German Shepherd is no exception. Some common health problems that can occur in German Shepherds include: Hip dysplasia. Home of Champions and Grand Champions! Our dogs live and are raised in our home. We live on 7 acres surrounded by mountains and wild life. Our goal is to produce healthy dogs in body and mind who can live long disease free lives. They will be great companions, service or competition dogs. We focus on health and temperament. We breed only healthy dogs who can pass along worthy traits, such as a solid temperament, correct conformation and excellent pigment. We avoid tight line breeding and prefer to breed dogs who have no common ancestors in 4 to 5 generations. All our dogs are DNA tested, non-carriers of any detectable diseases. Only those dogs that pass the health and temperament test are introduced into our breeding program. To her I owe much of my knowledge, hands on experience and a very successful first breeding in December .Foxhunt Lust for Life is our first love, he inspired us on educating our selves about the evolution of this breed. It is indeed and evolution since the White Shepherd was not meant to be a breed of its own at the origin. It is because of politics and the Parent Club's definition of beauty that the White Shepherds became outcast from their original breed. You may ask, what is the original breed? It is the German Shepherd dog. To tell you about the origin of the German Shepherd is beyond the scope of this introduction. I will only point out that the German Shepherd creator , a German Cavalry Captain, Max Emil Friedrich von Stephanitz bought what he felt was the benchmark prototype of what a working dog should be: intelligent, strong with endurance, loyal and beautiful. Around , he found all these pre-requisites in Horand von Grafrath who he renamed Hektor von Schwaben. Stephanitz declared him the very first German Shepherd dog. He then proceeded to mate Hektor with other " worthy" mates. Among them there were white dogs. The writing under the picture , literally translates to: "long coated stock German Shepherd dog". It also happens to be white. I believe this is how the white , long coat gene of German Shepherd dogs was introduced into the German Shepherd breed. In Europe it has become a different breed. The history is fascinating and I will tell in greater details in other parts. At the moment I invite you to get to know us and to be patient as we build our web site.