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Now that you know some of the best German Shepherd breeders in New Jersey, you must be wondering how much you will need to pay for a good puppy from a reputable breeder. The price of the German Shepherd Puppy can vary depending on several factors, including the breeder, the location, lineage, and their purpose in life. If you are getting a dog from a high-end breeder with a prestigious line of German Shepherds, you will of course need to pay a much higher price. As this dog breed is extremely intelligent and useful in many disciplines of working life, they are not usually purchased as pets, so you will have to expect to pay a little bit more, as their price increases because of this. Also, the price of a puppy will significantly rise if the breeder has done all the health tests and has each certificate to prove this. These dogs are less likely to suffer from any health conditions later in life, and are therefore, much more expensive. On the other hand, if you are looking to buy a service or police dog, then you can expect to pay a lot. Even though they can be really pricey, these dogs are worth it, believe me — their intelligence, capabilities, great temperament, and companionship make up for the money invested. We have done this research and compiled all this important information in order to help you choose a perfect breeder that will provide you with the best possible puppy. We hate to see our readers regret their decision of getting a puppy, just because they ran into a breeder that does not care about his dogs and clients. A true lover of dogs will never let their pups end up with just anyone, but will make sure that the potential buyer actually loves owning dogs and has the appropriate conditions for raising such a dog. On the other hand, a reputable breeder will also make sure that all his puppy parents are in perfect health, so the future puppies will also be healthy and happy. These are just some of the things you need to be careful of when looking for a German Shepherd breeder. Once you have that little fur pup with you at home, I am sure that you will forget all the stress and time spent in the process of searching for the right one, and he or she will bring light and happiness into your life. Related Content:. For the complete list please see our German Shepherd Breeders page. When looking for a German Shepherd pup, there are a few things you should take into account before making your purchase. When purchasing a German Shepherd puppy, be prepared to make a long-term commitment to taking care of your new family member. They will require regular exercise, plenty of socialization, and training. With proper care, your GSD will be by your side for many years to come. Reputable breeders are more than happy to show you where the dog was born, raised, and even introduce you to its parents. As part of your purchase agreement with a breeder, make sure there is some sort of guarantees included on the health of the pup for up to 1 year after making your purchase. This warranty will ensure you can take your pup to the vet if any health problems do arise in the future. Visit Your New Jersey German Shepherd Breeder in Person Before handing over your money, you should be allowed to visit with the puppies and their parents. If everything looks good and the breeder is reputable, take the time to ask them as many questions as you can about the pup, its parents, and how it has been raised. This will help you get a sense of what to expect in the years ahead. A responsible German Shepherd breeder will be more than happy to answer any and all of your questions and provide additional information beyond what is covered in this article. They should make you feel confident that you are making the right decision in purchasing one of their puppies. Reputable breeders typically want to ensure their pups go home and stay home with the right family so may be hesitant about giving out too much information over the phone or the internet. References will also give you an idea of what you should expect if you decide to purchase a dog from your new breeder. By talking to them and seeing how they interact with their dog, it will give you an idea of what life is really like living with one of these loyal companions. Meeting with past customers will also help you get a sense of whether the breeder is reputable or not. If everything looks good, take the time to ask your breeder for specific contact information from these families so you can reach out to them on your own. This will give you an idea of what questions to ask and what to look for when meeting with potential dog owners. This means they should be taking them for yearly check-ups and vaccines, grooming them regularly, and feeding them high-quality dog food that meets all their nutritional needs. The best place to get your dog is from a breeder who has an established relationship with a veterinarian they use on a regular basis. A good professional will be able to answer any questions you have about taking care of your dog and what it takes to keep them healthy throughout its life. Look Out for The Signs of An Unethical German Shepherd Dog Breeder in New Jersey Unfortunately, not all breeders are ethical and some may try to take advantage of your lack of knowledge or willingness to ask the right questions. There are plenty of them out there, you just need to be patient and do your research. This can include anything from congenital defects to health issues that may arise as the dog gets older. This will prevent them from getting out and exploring on their own. A Word on Crate Training You may want to consider crate training as your German Shepherd pup gets older as it can be a very effective tool for potty training and teaching them their boundaries. However, if not used properly, this method could actually cause more harm than good. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. German Shepherds for sale in New Jersey Regis Regal Specializes in providing world class German Shepherd puppies and trained adult dogs Serving New Jersey with german shepherds since With over 30 years experience in the breeding and training of world-class German Shepherds from some of the top bloodlines out of Germany, here at Regis Regal German Shepherds we've been very proud to have sold our puppies and adult dogs to the residents of New Jersey. We're a small family run operation with our main training and breeding facilities based in Spring Grove, Illinois. Because of the quality and pedigree of our German Shepherds there's been a demand for our dogs all over the world. The owner, Cynthia Kelly, has a lifetime of experience in creating the perfect family companion, service dog or therapy dog. Because of the lack of top quality German Shepherd breeders in some parts of the United States, we've carefully set ourselves up so that we can send our dogs direct to your home by use of a private courier service. At Regis Regal German Shepherds we produce a select number of puppies at any one time, and take the utmost care when raising and training them ready for ownership. You should not forget that when it comes to buying a puppy you also need to be mindful of other costs outside of the purchase or adoption fee. Included within the cost of our puppies are: Lifetime health guarantee contingent on meeting criteria stated in the contract. Send us a message or give us a ring on .Emotional support dogs are suited for both children and adults and have the ability to work with their owners in all types of locations. We have placed many dogs with children and teenagers of New Jersey that suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and manic disorders. Service dogs provide a physical service to their owners. We have been incredibly successful in providing service dogs to children afflicted with Autism and Asbergers, as our dogs can help to enhance the verbal skills of non-verbal Autistic children and support their overall way of communicating. Some of our previous placements our dog courier service - we ship to your door in NJ! You might find this a bit hard to believe but we actually ship right to your door, wherever you are based in the US! Such is the demand for one of our dogs we decided it would make things a lot easier for our customers if we could hand-deliver them right to you. For those people in need of a top class GSD, and who can't get to our premises, this is a bit of a lifesaver. We make use of a private courier service whereby they come to us and pickup the dog in their vehicle before making the journey to your home. Our driver is well trained in the handling and care of your dog on the trip, and due to their temperament our dogs always enjoy the journey! On rare occasions our dogs have flown out to their destination, again accommpanied by one of the Regis Regal team to ensure for a very smooth and calm trip. We also go through a very thorough process to make sure our dogs are going to the right kind of owner - at the end of the day it's really important that we can rest easy at night knowing they'll be going to someone that's going to love them as much as we do. Because of COVID we've held plenty of online meetings where you can ask us any questions about our dogs, and you can even get to meet-and-greet them virtually! Reviews from Customers based in N. We like to think we've made a lot of people in New Jersey happy over the years that we've been in business. Take a look below at some of the feedback we've received to date. You can find more reviews of ours here too. He is beautiful, well tempered, intelligent, and already making all of our hearts melt. We would highly recommend the Regis Regal for anyone looking for a German Shepherd pup. As you can imagine this can change quite regularly - so please send us a message below, or give us a call on .We look forward to hearing from you! Your name. But we also want sensible dogs that will curl up in front of the the T. A hip X-rays done before being bred. S military. It talks about early neurological stimulation of very young pups so that they can develop to their full potential. We raise our dogs in our home, perform, in a warm and cozy environment, and perform early neurological stimulation to get the best possible performance from these super confident rock star pups. European Bloodlines in the U. A dog that shows courage and fearless in protecting its owner. A dog that bonds closely and is well integrated into its family. A dog that a burglar will run from but a child can hug. We thus feel we need imported dogs. Our German Shepherd puppies are from great parents. I looked for a high quality working line breeder, and I was willing to drive all the way from Pittsburgh, P. A to Jersey City, NJ for the right pup. Would highly recommend this breeder. Has extensive knowledge about the breed and excellent bloodline working dogs. Great communication before and after I purchased my pup. Have already recommended him to friends for future litters… Bella von Gonta Haus Kelly Leigh It was great to have someone understand exactly what we were looking for in a dog. My husband is a police officer and knows a lot about working dogs, but as a mom, I wanted a dog that first and foremost would be a terrific family member, and safe with our kids. We are an active family and wanted a dog that was built correctly, anatomically, that could go hiking or family trips. We wanted a dog with an excellent off switch, that although she could be trained in dog sports, but could settle well and be a well adjusted family dog. We met Alex via his Facebook advertising and decided to visit.

A loving forever home with a secure fence and another dog in the home She wants to be your "All-American Girl! Carrie Underwood is so sweet and adorable. She is a bundle of tender kisses and has energy for days. She has been a great sister to the newest foster puppies that have come and gone, teaching them the art of playing with toys. Carrie's favorite thing to do is play chase with her K9 buddies. She runs fast and does figure 8's around the resident dogs, who don't even try to keep up with her. Her second favorite activity is napping with the resident Labs. She adores the older resident dogs and has learned great napping skills from them. She continues to work on her leash skills. Carrie has been quietly working on coming out of her shell and has undergone a transformation since arriving at her foster. She loves to curl up in the lap of her FM for naps and bedtime snuggles. She still has her moments of shyness around Foster Dad, but will now come voluntarily to the couch to sit beside him for attention. She's definitely gained lots of confidence. Carrie will need a home with another dog, preferably one who enjoys the same activity level. Carrie still has some shy moments but she is ready for her furever home, and she will steal the heart of anyone who wants to add a sweet yet energetic member to their family. Thank you to the following generous donors currently supporting Carrie's care: Amanda S. Learn more Paw Crossed Animal Rescue fulfill their duties through rescue, advocacy, rehabilitation, rehoming, education, and collaboration. This organization takes every opportunity to educate its community about animal care and animal welfare. All Paw Crossed pets available for adoption, including labs and lab mixes, are either spayed or neutered. All their pets are dewormed, tested for FeLv cats or heartworm dogs , and are up to date on most of their vaccines. Healthcare is included in the adoption fee of their pets, so adoption fees vary from pet to pet. The fees will reflect the cost of caring for your pet prospect when they were with the rescue. So choose Paw Crossed Animal Rescue to adopt your lab or lab mix and get the process started today. Rescue Benefits for You Choosing to adopt over buying a puppy has numerous benefits for your lifestyle and wallet. Patience is important. Even after you pay the adoption fees, pets can be expensive. Start saving before you adopt in case emergencies arise. You may also need to pay for training classes or additional veterinary services. Getting Your Application Approved Adoption applications help the rescue match the best pet to the best family and ensure every animal will be well cared for. Labrador Retrievers Need Time Labs will thrive in environments where socialization and companionship are plentiful. Keep them engaged and entertained as much as possible. Leaving this breed for an extended period could result in the development of separation anxiety. Will You Have Space? Labs can range from medium to large-sized dogs. Puppies Can Be Destructive Lab puppies can be menaces when ruining items such as shoes, carpets, and anything else that they can bite. Train them from an early age to discourage these behaviors. Labrador Retrievers Are Easy To Train Labradors are an intelligent breed of dog, and they have an innate desire to please their caretakers, which allows them to be very amenable to training. This gives them insulation against the cold, makes them strong swimmers, and keeps them cool in the summer. Due to the natural oils in their coat, you can over bathe them. If you wash them too often, this will lead to flaking, dry and itchy skin. They also have particular grooming needs. Many of these dogs have already been in unfortunate situations before they arrive in your home, so you must be prepared to care for them and meet all their needs. Moreover, you may also check our lists of other rescue centers that you can try:. We're proud to have recently found new homes for the these lovable labs. Loading labs.Labs4rescue is proud to be associated with the following organizations Combined Federal Campaign CFC is the world's largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaign, raising millions of dollars each year. To support Labs4rescue, click here and enter our Charity .Animal Charities of America Animal Charities of America ACA is a federation of America's finest national organizations working to protect and enhance the lives of all animals whether farm, domesticated or wild. America's Best Charities Each charity on their site has been carefully screened to ensure every charity listed is a qualified non-profit, provides ongoing program services, and is financially accountable. Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals Committed to seeing the day when no New York City dog or cat of reasonable health and temperament is killed merely because he or she does not have a home. About Us Labs4Rescue is a volunteer, c 3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing a new life for rescued or displaced Labrador Retrievers and Labrador Mixes. Our goal is to promote and advance responsible pet ownership. Useful Links.

Are you in search of affordable French Bulldog puppies? Look no further! Our main goal is to help you find the ideal and perfect French bulldog puppy for sale in your area. You can buy a healthy cheap teacup French bulldog puppy for sale today by browsing through our French Bulldogs Available for sale page History of cheap French Bulldog puppies Despite what its name may imply, the french bulldog was developed in England. When activities like this were outlawed in England in , the English Bulldog was bred down in size, resulting in the Toy Bulldog. During the Industrial Revolution, these Toy Bulldogs were brought to France by English lace workers, and the French immediately took a liking to the little dog. So, they began to import more and more of the breed. Over time, the Toy Bulldog became a breed of its own, and was eventually named the French Bulldog. Frenchies are very adaptable, so they make great pets for first-time dog owners. They adjust well to other animals, too, and are great with kids. This handsome Mini French Bulldog puppy is waiting for his new loving family! He is raised with children that play with him daily. This cutie is social, friendly and loads of fun. This fella will instantly make everyone fall in love with him! He is ACA registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and comes with a 1 year genetic health guarantee. At Cheappuppiesforsale. These pint-sized pups are perfect for apartment living or those who simply prefer a smaller breed. History of French Bulldog puppies French Bulldogs are considered one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States and around the world. They are known for their affectionate and playful personalities and are often kept as companion animals. The breed is a descendant of the English Bulldog, which was brought to France by English lacemakers. The French Bulldog was then developed by crossing the English Bulldog with local small breeds, such as the Terrier, to create a smaller, more delicate version of the English Bulldog. During the 19th century, French Bulldogs were used for bull-baiting and dog fighting. They quickly gained popularity among the upper class in France, especially in Paris, where they were considered a symbol of luxury and elegance. In the late 19th century, French Bulldogs were brought to the United States by American tourists who fell in love with the breed while visiting France. Temperament of Frenchies The temperament of a French Bulldog is generally described as affectionate, playful, and sociable. They are known to be good with children and other pets and make great companion animals. They are also known for their intelligence and trainability, which makes them easy to train and manage. French Bulldogs are very loyal to their owners, and they have a strong desire to be close to their family. They have a playful nature, and they love to play and interact with their owners. French Bulldogs are known for their expressive personalities, and they are known to be very vocal. They are known to make a variety of noises, including grunts, snores, and snorts, which can be quite endearing. They are also known for their sense of humor and their ability to make their owners laugh. One of the most striking characteristics of French Bulldogs is their easy going nature. They are known to be adaptable and easy to live with, which makes them great family pets. They are also known to be relatively low maintenance, as they do not require a lot of exercise or grooming. Let us introduce you to Racco a handsome Merel teacup French Bulldog pup ready to venture off to his forever home. He is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed, plus the breeder provides a 1 year genetic health guarantee provided by the breeder. His momma is Amber. Racco enjoy spending time with the children he is currently being raised with. Sex: Male.

German Shepherd Husky mix owners who are trying to sell their puppies on the Internet should keep in mind that puppies can sometimes have behavioral issues. But, you need to do your homework and research the different dogs that look like the Husky you want. There are many common and distinct differences between the different dogs that you will find when you research your German Shepherd Husky mix for sale. One of the things you can compare is the price. You should be able to find a puppy that costs around the same amount as an adult German Shepherd but you can often save money by adopting an older dog that is already housebroken and groomed. If you decide to get a purebred German Shepherd mix such as this you should consider the advice of a breeder or a veterinarian. This information should help you with your choice. Some of the dogs that look like the German Shepherd mix for sale NC that are available through local breeders have been mistreated and even killed. Some of the puppies you will get in your dog breeding group may have even lost their lives during the breeding process. So it is important to get informed about these dogs before you choose to buy one of them for your collection. The Internet is another source for finding purebred German Shepherd mixes for sale. You can also talk to other breeders to get information on dogs that have similar traits to the German Shepherd you are looking for. The type of home that you get your German Shepherd Husky mix for sale NC from is important to consider. You should always ask the breeder about the living conditions of the animals they are breeding. The reason for this is that the puppy you get could have certain health issues not present in all purebred German Shepherds. So it is important to get information from the person who is selling the pup so you know if you are getting a good pet or if it is an unhappy breeding situation. One of the most important considerations is the registration papers that must be obtained. You should be prepared to obtain at least one of these because these dogs are not legal in most states until they are fully grown. This will help you ensure that the dog you get will be healthy. When you start talking about the different German Shepherd mixes for sale in NC there are a few things that you should know. For example, the AKC does not approve of mixes because the breed is continually being altered to try and make the dogs more adorable. If a purebred German Shepherd is altered and sold as a mix, there is no way for the dog to be able to get a good purebred German Shepherd back. If the mother is unable to nurse her puppies during the first four months of pregnancy, the puppies will need extra attention and care until the breeder can get them to nurse. This means that you could have a newborn puppy that is not properly cared for and could potentially put you and the new puppy at risk. German Shepherds mix are very energetic dogs. They tend to need lots of attention, exercise, and daily or multiple weekly walks. The best thing you can do when you are looking to buy a German Shepherd Husky puppy is to talk to the breeder. Share this:. Hi everyone! I am looking for a family that would love me as much as I will love them! I was unfortunately in a car accident a few months ago that left me with some gait instability. At first, I was paralyzed in my hindlegs. But I underwent two spinal surgeries and after some long, hard recovery, I am now able to walk short distances! With some help with my balance, I can go even further! Not to toot my own horn, but I quickly became a neighborhood favorite! My other challenge is occasional bladder and bowel incontinence. When the accident happened, at first, I lost complete control of both, and needed to be expressed. But I appreciate you being understanding about my recovery. When I pee, I need a little help from someone holding my waist as I walk around the backyard to relieve myself. When I poop, I usually need a sling under me for mild support. I love everyone I meet dogs, cats and children! I do fine when left home alone. I wander the house and am smart enough to know not to go into rooms I am told not to be in, not to jump onto any furniture, and not to chew up any toys. But I prefer spending most of my time with my family if possible. And I enjoy that time even more if we spend it together outdoors. I am smart, adapt quickly, and learn new rules and routines well. Please give me a chance! Please contact my family today at to arrange to meet me. Contact the foster parent or Mountain Pet Rescue at pets mpravl. Please note that visual breed identification of companion animals has been proven to be unreliable, so for most of our animals we provide a best guess at predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each of our animals as an individual and do our best to describe and place pets based on personality not breed label. September 14, , pm.

One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for San Jose Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in San Jose? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in San Jose? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. I would really like one or more doggie siblings to be my best friend s. But hey, I like humans a lot too since they give me lots of pets, tell me how handsome I am, and most important, throw the BLUE Chuck-it ball for me if you do not know, the blue ones have squeakers! I am a 3 year old Golden Mix with a great personality, hoping that my next home is one where I can unpack and stay forever. I have had two homes before that did not work out, but I think we are on to something new with my current foster home. I have never had a dog sibling before, but I feel SO much better when my doggie foster brothers are around! My foster mom took me to see the veterinary behaviorist at the SF SPCA, and the vet agrees that these guys are helping me feel like it is ok when mom leaves us for a bit to go in the store or take a short walk in the neighborhood. I can stay in the car for a while with my brothers since the temperature is cool right now and not worry too much. I can also stay in the house with them, and while I am a little vocal, I do not destroy anything. I have so much potential and am hoping the meds I am taking doggie Prozac will continue to help me be calm when I am stressed. I might be on those forever, but they are not too expensive. They tell me I am pretty smart did I mention good-looking? For now, if I cannot go with you when you leave the house, I would like to be with another human in some setting maybe a neighbor, Doggie Daycare, or with a dog walker. Ok, enough reading, talk it over with your pup s , and come meet me already, I am waiting! We have answers. While we do work with many breeders and companies with Golden Retriever puppies for sale in San Jose CA and nearby areas, most of the breeders and businesses we work with are able to safely transport puppies to any of the continental U. How much is a puppy Golden Retriever for sale San Jose? The cost of Golden Retriever puppies in San Jose and throughout our national network range based on several factors. Our matchmaking service will take into account your preferences and connect you with the right puppy for your price range. San Jose Golden Retriever puppies will likely be comparable in price to similar puppies within our network of breeders and companies. How are San Jose Golden Retriever breeders selected? Check out our Breeder Pledge for additional information on our rigorous standards and promise to you. Why is unique about Uptown Puppies Golden Retriever puppies? We know that the process of finding the right pet for your needs can be an overwhelming journey to navigate. The puppy business is unfortunately full of unethical breeders and puppy mills who are more interested in profits than the welfare of the animals and satisfaction of their customers. Uptown Puppies utmost commitment is to bring together the most ethical breeders and businesses in the nation with loving owners and families. Unlike many pet stores who accept unhealthy and mistreated animals from puppy mills who can have high healthcare bills and often die prematurely, Uptown Puppies goes above and beyond to ensure no puppies come from puppy mills. Looking to meet a puppy before committing? If you connect with a Golden Retriever San Jose breeder and they have the perfect puppy for you, you will be able to drive their directly to meet or pick up a puppy. How does the MatchMaker experience work? We created our matchmaking process to make it streamlined and enjoyable for people to find the perfect puppy for their unique lifestyle. Our MatchMaker service goes through a series of questions to understand your preferences and what type of dog is the best fit. Is Uptown Puppies trustworthy? With all of the bad breeders and puppy mills out there, we know the importance of trusting the source when it comes to picking out your new puppy. We hold ourselves to the highest ethical and legal standards when it comes to selecting the breeders and businesses we work with. As you can see from our positive reviews, our goal is to create happy customers by truly listening to what they want in a puppy and making that dream come true.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Growth and weight The German Shepherd puppy is a popular addition to many households. Sometimes called the Alsatian puppy, the German Shepherd was initially developed for herding and now commonly used as a working dog or pet. This is your guide to providing all the nutrients your new puppy needs. When Your Puppy Comes Home Although they look pretty sturdy at eight weeks old, German Shepherd puppies are vulnerable to tummy upsets when they arrive at a new home. To help them settle in stick with the food their breeder was giving them for the first two weeks minimum. You can then gradually swap over by increasing proportions over the course of a couple of days. However, if they are doing well on their original food, considering sticking with it for longer. To begin with follow the guidelines provided by the breeder, the feed manufacturer or by your veterinarian. This will vary depending on how calorie dense the food is and how it is formulated. Your puppy should be fed four times a day up to the age of four months. After this age, two larger meals at regular times will be sufficient. However, the more often you feed your pup the stronger your bond will grow. Simple sits and recalls, puppy tricks, they all make a big difference to how your dog behaves towards you and feels about you as they grow. What to Feed A German Shepherd Puppy You will find there are a lot of different opinions about what kind of food is best. Kibble and wet food are the most popular, but you do also have the option of raw or homemade meals. Puppy Kibble Great quality, high meat content kibble is my go-to for feeding larger puppy breeds. At the beginning of the day I measure out their daily food amount, then separate it into little pots. Some as meals, and the remainder to use throughout the day to reward good behavior or get off on the right foot with positive reinforcement. The FDA recently issued a notice alerting dog owners to a potential increased risk of a serious heart condition. This is called canine dilated cardiomyopathy DCM. The risk is in dogs eating foods that include peas, lentils, or potatoes instead of grains. The underlying cause of these cases is not clear, but the FDA note suggests that caution should be used in selecting foods with these ingredients for German Shepherds and other large dogs. Canned Dog Food For picky eaters canned food can be more appealing. It smells stronger, and debatably tastes nicer. These diets do not include cooked or otherwise processed foods. However, it may be more difficult to regulate a BARF diet to ensure a slow and steady growth rate in young puppies. If you find this option intriguing, you can check out our article on feeding your dog a raw diet. Homemade Diets Research has shown that in the past, poorly balanced homemade diets have been harmful to German Shepherd puppies. There is now abundant information available to anyone who is willing and able to produce a safe and balanced diet. However, modern cases studies have shown that well-meaning owners may still over-feed or create an unbalanced diet. So, this is an area where you really can have too much of a good thing. As with commercial foods, homemade diets must be properly formulated for a large breed dog. Do not deviate from recommended recipes as provided by a veterinarian. If possible, preferably a vet with a board certification in veterinary nutrition. Recipes published in popular magazine and websites may not be nutritionally complete or suitable for a large breed puppy. Is My Puppy the Right Weight? You can also refer to German Shepherd puppy growth charts to see if you puppy is gaining weight and within the normal range. However, keep in mind that some dogs will be unusually small or large but still be perfectly healthy. Do not try to maximize growth rates as this can lead to health problems later. Ensure that you are familiar with how to assess the body condition of your puppy. The ribs and spine should be easy to feel but not simple to see. My Puppy Is Still Hungry If your puppy seems excessively hungry provide more frequent but smaller meals. Young puppies cannot tolerate going without food for extended periods. With older puppies you may wish to experiment with foods that help them feel more full, and provide low calories treats. Keeping a health puppy active and occupied will help prevent them from becoming overly focused on anticipating their next meal. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. But the good news is that there are plenty of high-quality breeders right here in Arkansas! Some of these breeders are so renowned, they ship their puppies all over the country! Pet Keen advocates for adopting before shopping. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. The 7 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Arkansas 1. They will get your pet to you via air or ground, which is a service that few other breeders offer. They specialize in silver Labrador Retrievers, but they also have charcoal Labs with most litters. Each pup comes with a 2-year health guarantee, and the breeder provides genetic testing for each dog. All their dogs are AKC certified. Dogwood Silver Labs will transport your puppy throughout Arkansas or the surrounding area for a small fee. Each puppy comes with a health guarantee, two training sessions, and two days of boarding. Their puppies are a bit more expensive than most other breeders, but they have a more stringent application process to ensure that each puppy goes to a good home. They place a priority on finding quality pet owners. You can choose from black, yellow, or chocolate Lab puppies, all of which have relations assessed by OFA. They breed AKC-registered pups that are ideal for families Karemy Labs pays special attention to the health of their Labrador puppies. If you get your pup from them, you will enjoy a lifetime health guarantee for your pet. Mountain Spring Labs breeds AKC-registered Lab pups in rare colors such as fox-red, silver, and white alongside the usual ones. All their pups receive their first round of vaccinations and deworming treatment prior to their adoption. Mountain Spring also microchips their dogs while providing you proof of pedigree and a two-year health guarantee. They are a small-scale AKC certified breeder located in Greenbrier. What sets them apart is their commitment to ethical breeding practices. For over 20 years, they have never once declawed their litters. The kennel specializes in English Labradors. The pups are potty trained and undergo regular health inspections. If you want an obedient and well-trained dog, head straight to Cardon Ridge. Over the years, a lot of their puppies have gone on to become dog show winners and therapy dogs. Dogwood Silver Labs regularly deworms their litters and provides prospective adopters with a two-year health guarantee. Their puppies are genetically sound. From breeding successful horses to breeding Rottweilers, she finally settled on creating an ethical labrador breeding facility. Address: W. Through their in-house training program, they make sure your future pet is friendly yet sharp. All Ridge Creek puppies are regularly dewormed and immunized up to six weeks of age. You can take your pick from chocolate, yellow, and black puppies per your preference. Each litter undergoes strict health check-ups and deworming. Henderson Kennel also takes care to remove dewclaws from their puppies. You can opt to choose between limited and full AKC registration for their puppies.

Although she stands no more than 10 inches tall and weighs between 4—6 pounds, the Toy Poodle has a big, playful personality that can fill up a room. While frequently associated with France, Standard Poodles were first developed in Germany, where they were used in duck hunting. They have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Poodles of all sizes have curly coats with extensive grooming needs. Their coat grows continuously, calling for a trim every four to six weeks. However, there is no such thing as a completely "hypoallergenic" dog. People with allergies should spend time with the breed before officially bringing home a Toy Poodle puppy. But during this long life , they are predisposed to a few health issues that may require care. Pet parents may benefit from investing in pet insurance early in life. Progressive Retinal Atrophy Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is a group of diseases that cause a breakdown of the photoreceptor cells rods and cones on the retina. Initially, the dog may have difficulty seeing in the dark, but the condition can cause blindness over time. PRA is an inherited disease and there are currently no effective treatments available. Patellar Luxation The patella kneecap is a small bone that normally sits in a groove within the femur at the knee. In dogs with patellar luxation, the patella moves luxates outside of its assigned groove when the knee is flexed. This movement can cause discomfort and may eventually lead to arthritis. Many pets will skip or run on three legs when the patella is out of place. While some cases will correct themselves, in more severe cases the patella remains out of place. In mild cases, joint supplements such as fish oils and glucosamine or anti-inflammatory medications are used to control pain and prevent arthritis. In more severely affected dogs, surgery may be recommended. This causes pain and limping occur as the bone breaks down. In some cases, pain can be controlled with medications. In severe cases, surgery to remove the head of the femur may be recommended. Symptoms include visible debris, redness, odor, head shaking, and scratching. If any of these signs are noted, take your dog to the veterinarian for an exam. In most cases, ear infections can be resolved by cleaning the ear and with topical medications. Toy Poodles develop ear infections more often than most other breeds. This may be partly due to Poodles having long ear canals with excess curly hair to trap in moisture and debris. Trimming not plucking the hair from the ear may help reduce the incidence of ear infections. Dogs with chronic or recurring ear infections frequently have allergies that should be addressed. Dental Disease Dental disease is one of the most common conditions seen in dogs as they age, especially in small breeds like the Toy Poodle. Dental disease occurs when bacterial tartar and plaque build up, leading to inflammation of the tissues around the teeth—and eventually to tooth and bone decay. Daily tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste is the best way to prevent dental disease, though some diets, treats, and chew toys also help prevent plaque and tartar. Tracheal Collapse Tracheal collapse occurs when the trachea commonly called the windpipe flattens. This happens due to weak cartilage rings or the sagging of a membrane along the trachea. Most cases are treated using medications, but in severe cases where breathing is impeded, surgery may be necessary. Toy poodles are likely genetically predisposed to tracheal collapse. When on walks, use a harness instead of a collar, as pressure on the trachea can cause further damage. The condition causes a deficiency in a protein called the von Willebrand factor, which is necessary for platelets to stick together and form a clot. In dogs that are deficient in this protein, the blood may have difficulty clotting, which can lead to bleeding from the nose, vulva, bladder, or gums. Additionally, dogs with this condition may bleed for a long time after trauma or surgery. If there is concern about VWD, a screening test may be performed. This test measures how long it takes for a small cut in the mouth to stop bleeding. If the time is longer than usual, additional testing is needed to confirm VWD. Because some dogs with VWD do not have notably prolonged bleeding until later in adulthood, blood levels of von Willebrand factor can be measured to help with diagnosis. Most veterinarians recommend testing for VWD prior to any planned surgery, including spays, neuters, and dewclaw removals. Puppies should be fed a diet formulated specifically for puppies or designated for all life stages. For Toy Poodle adults, dental-focused diets may be recommended by your veterinarian to help prevent dental disease. Toy poodle puppies, however, should eat three to four small meals per day on a consistent schedule to help maintain their blood sugar. Additionally, the feeding guide labels on the dog food provides valuable information for pet parents. Just remember: In small breeds like the Toy Poodle, calories in treats add up quickly. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in skin and joint supplements , fish oil, and even in some specially formulated dog foods. These fatty acids act as natural anti-inflammatories that help support the skin, coat, kidneys, joints, and heart. They are playful and self-confident when socialized at a young age. While relatively calm, Toy Poodles enjoy playtime and exercise with the family. The breed is gentle with children and other pets, though all interactions between dogs and kids should be supervised. Because these pups are so tiny, they can accidentally be hurt during playtime. Toy Poodles have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Toy Poodle Behavior Toy Poodles bond closely to their families and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They can also be sensitive to stress, and sudden changes in the home environment may lead to gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, because Poodles are so smart, they need mental stimulation to keep themselves entertained—and out of trouble. Bored dogs are more likely to bark, jump, be destructive, or misbehave. Toy Poodle Training Toy poodles want to please their owners. Paired with their smarts, this makes them an easy breed to train. As always, training is most successful when based on positive reinforcement with praise and tasty treats. Fun Activities for Toy Poodle Obedience training. Toy poodles double down on the froofroo rep with their tiny size and by sometimes sporting those fancy haircuts. But trust us, poodles are more than happy to get down and dirty. In fact, poodles started life as hunting dogs for the rich and famous in Europe. What made them so popular, however, is their incredible intelligence. Generally regarded as one of the smartest dog breeds , poodles are highly trainable, extremely eager to please people, and love being the center of attention through tricks and activities. None of that has changed over the years: The poodle consistently ranks as one of the 10 most popular breeds in the world. Appearance Toy, miniature , and standard poodles are all the same breed of dog, so they'll look more or less the same—except for their size. Toy poodles are the smallest of the three, standing no more than 10 inches tall and generally weighing right around 5 pounds. All three classifications of poodle have squarish bodies, generally about as long as they are tall. Poodles have a proud bearing, with heads kept high and their large, dark-colored eyes looking alert. Poodle coats come in a stunning array of colors from black, through the browns and yellow colors all the way to white. Bi-colored coats are also seen, though not hugely common. Poodles don't shed much , making them great for owners with allergies. While there aren't technically any hypoallergenic dogs , most people will find toy poodles close enough to not really quibble over it. Additionally, groomers can style a poodle's fur many different ways, and the breed has become famous for its outlandish show cuts. They tend to consider themselves a vital part of the family, have strong personalities, and learn things in a flash. They will get legitimately disgruntled if they think they're being left out of family activities. Of course, this temperament is kind of a double-edged sword. Toy poodles are devoted family pets who love to be the center of attention, learn tricks, and take walks. They're excellent in agility and obedience training and will play with children for hours. Because of their extreme intelligence, poodles are even quick to learn how to engage in more complex games such as hide and seek. On the flip side, poodles can develop common stress behaviors associated with separation anxiety. If you leave them alone for too long or don't give them the attention they deserve, these pups can be passive aggressive and do things they know you don't like—while you're there to watch. The toy poodle's teensy-tiny size makes it tempting to carry him everywhere, and he's so cute that it's no surprise owners are tempted to spoil him rotten. But, again, poodles are brilliant. A toy poodle who is carried everywhere will start to expect to be carried everywhere. As a result, every poodle owner should take full advantage of the breed's brilliance and eagerness to please, and obedience train their pet as quickly as possible. Living Needs Here is where the toy poodle's aptitude as an ideal family pet really shines. While poodles can be active dogs and will require some kind of daily exercise, toy poodles can get all their needs taken care of right there on the living room floor. Nichols says these little dogs will be happy with whatever type and amount of exercise their owner provides. Their tiny size makes them marvelous apartment-dwellers , and their innate desire to be lapdogs makes them great for seniors and people with mobility issues. Poodles of all sizes make great therapy dogs , and toy poodles in particular will love sitting near you for hours at a time. Toy poodles do great in households with other dogs, and the breed's lower prey drive , high intelligence, and friendly attitude make them ideal for houses with cats as well. Poodles love children and are eager to play, but most vets and breeders will steer households with children under the age of 10 toward the miniature or standard varieties, simply because the toy poodles are so small. They can be easily hurt by a falling child or by being handled too roughly. Always supervise children when they play with any dog and teach them how to properly interact with pets. Care No breed is perfect, and for poodles the biggest setback is going to be their grooming needs. That coat that is so shed-free and allergy-friendly? It's going to need brushing. A lot of brushing —ideally, every day. Because his hair curls in on itself, it's extremely prone to matting and, if left unchecked, can cause skin infections and have to be shaved off entirely. Aside from the brushing, poodles will need a bath and haircut every four to six weeks. While show dogs have a variety of complicated cuts to choose from, most non-show owners opt for a more standard sporting cut because of its ease to maintain. Like all dogs, you'll need to trim his nails regularly. Special attention should be paid to the ears , as their hair will grow up inside the ear canal, trapping wax and dirt and leading to infections. Because toy varieties have the same number of teeth as other poodle varieties but their mouths are smaller, it's easy for food to get trapped and decay to occur rapidly. Health Though the three varieties of poodles are the same breed, they do not suffer from the same conditions. While the standard poodle will be more prone to bloat , toy poodles can be slightly more susceptible to blood clotting disorders including Von Willebrand's disease and hemophilia , Beck says. Finally, smaller dogs can have a higher propensity for dental problems. In addition to being at greater risk for tooth decay , they don't lose their puppy teeth as easily as bigger dogs, Beck says. Reputable toy poodle breeders will conduct all health tests recommended by the Canine Health Information Center. History The poodle is the national dog of France, which is why you'll hear many people refer to the standard poodle as the "French poodle. Today in France, the poodle is known as the caniche, which translates to "duck dog. Toy poodles began to see favor by the late 18th century, appearing in artwork and in the courts of French aristocracy. The American Kennel Club recognized the poodle as a registered breed in .Jinkee , a 5-year-old red toy poodle, has more than 70, followers on Instagram. Was this page helpful? Your browser does not support the audio tag. Description When groomed to show dog standards the body is meant to give off a square appearance. It is approximately the same length as the height at the withers. The skull is moderately rounded with a slight but definite stop. It has a long, straight muzzle. The dark, oval-shaped eyes are set somewhat far apart and are black or brown. The ears hang close to the head and are long and flat. Both the front and back legs are in proportion with the size of the dog. The topline is level. The tail is set and carried high. It is sometimes docked to half its length or less to make the dog look more balanced. Dewclaws may be removed. The oval-shaped feet are rather small and the toes are arched. The coat is either curly or corded. While it does not make the written show standard, some breeders are breeding parti-colored Poodles. See grooming for different types of Poodle clips. Temperament The Toy Poodle is remarkably intelligent. Highly responsive, it is said to be one of the most trainable breeds. Sweet, cheerful, perky and lively, it likes to be with people. Delightful, very amusing and keen. Socialize these dogs well. They make very good watchdogs for their size. Without the proper type and amount of exercise they may be high-strung and timid. Toy Poodles are generally good with other pets and dogs. Unless given rules to follow and limits as to what they are and are not allowed to do, this breed will tend to bark a lot. Do not let this small dog develop Small Dog Syndrome , human induced behaviors where the dog believes he is pack leader to humans. This causes varying degrees of behavior issues , including, but not limited, to snapping, growling, guarding , demanding, untrustworthiness with children and sometimes adults, sensitive, nervous, reserved with strangers and obsessive barking, as the dog tries to tell the humans what it is HE wants THEM to do. This little dog can be good with children, however is usually recommended for older children who know how to display leadership skills. The reason is that most humans treat the dog in such a way that makes it unsure just who the pack leader is in the human-dog relationship. The dog, in his mind, is convinced HE is the leader to humans. Height, Weight Height: up to 10 inches .The Toy Poodle is 10 inches or under at the highest point of the shoulders. Any Poodle that is more than 10 inches at the highest point of the shoulders cannot compete in the AKC show ring as a Toy Poodle. Health Problems A long-lived breed, Poodles are, nevertheless, subject to many genetic diseases. Eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy can cause blindness. Skin conditions, possibly due to unskilled use of clippers. Brown Poodles tend to become prematurely gray. Living Conditions Toy Poodles are good for city life as well as country living. Given enough exercise, they are not active indoors. They will lie right next to you and are more sedate when indoors, although they love to play outdoors and are a highly intelligent breed, so they do like lots of thoughtful activities to stimulate their mentality. They will do okay without a yard. Exercise These are active little dogs that need a daily walk. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe, open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard. Life Expectancy. Post by: Emily W. While many may associate Poodles with being prissy indoor dogs, that could not be further from the truth. Poodles will happily go on a hike or jump into a puddle of mud like any other dog. History of Toy Poodles For years people have associated the Poodle breed with France, but these curly-haired canines actually originated in Germany. In fact, the pom pom haircut that these dogs are known for was inspired by their first job as retrievers. The fur around their organs and joints would be left longer, in order to protect them from the cold water temperatures. The rest of their hair would then be trimmed to lower resistance and lower the risk of getting caught on something when they were in the water. Although they originated in Germany, Poodles quickly made their way to France, where people fell completely head over heels for the canines. Over time, many people began wishing for a smaller, more manageable size of the Standard Poodle. Breeders began pairing the smallest Poodles from different litters, and as a result, the Miniature Poodle came into existence. While the larger, Standard Poodle was used for hunting and retrieving purposes, the Miniature Poodle was used to sniff out truffles a type of mushroom in the woods. After the success of creating the Miniature Poodle, people once again wished to create an even smaller version of Poodle. Breeders followed the same pattern as before, and they bred together the smallest Miniature Poodles. This soon resulted in the creation of the Toy Poodle. Unlike their larger ancestors, the Toy Poodle was not used for any type of job or service. Instead, people simply wanted Toy Poodles as companions and lapdogs. Considered to be the same breed, the Standard, Miniature, and Toy Poodle were bred to be identical versions of one another, but just at three different sizes. Besides a few slight variances, chances are, if you have enjoyed living with a Standard Poodle, you will equally love living with a Miniature or Toy Poodle. Attributes of Toy Poodles The Toy Poodle is an old dog breed that has remained popular among families everywhere, since nearly the day they were created. Learn more about what makes these dogs such a great choice. While living with an intelligent dog can be an extremely helpful trait when it comes to training, Poodle parents should still take heed. For instance, if you choose to feed your Toy Poodle scraps from the table, they will quickly begin to expect scraps every time you sit down at the table. Chances are, they will also turn their nose up to their own food because they will quickly learn to expect delicious human food. Besides creating poor manners, feeding your dog from the table can also be dangerous, since a large amount of human food is toxic to dogs. Toy Poodles are friendly and outgoing, so they are often happy to meet new friends. Toy Poodles are also known to get along well with other pets, but take note that if they live in a multi-pet household, they will generally want to be the center of attention. Toy Poodles cap out at 10 inches in height, and they typically weigh between pounds. They can also be found in nearly any solid color, including apricot, cream, white, brown, red, silver, grey, and black. Poodles can also be found in a phantom pattern or a two-toned pattern, consisting of a combination of colors. One of the many reasons why people are drawn to these dogs is because of the claim that Toy Poodles are hypoallergenic. In truth, though, no one type of dog is completely hypoallergenic. However, Toy Poodles shed very little when compared to the majority of other breeds—which means there will be less dander present. People with dog allergies will oftentimes experience less of an allergic reaction, or none at all, when they are around Poodles. How to Groom a Toy Poodle Even though they do not shed excessively, Toy Poodles still require regular brushing in order to minimize mats in their coat. These weekly or more often, if needed brushings should be done in addition to your Poodle being professionally groomed. Clipping is recommended to be done about every three months, and about every month for the face and feet. Some Poodle parents have even learned how to do these trims on their own. When it comes to Toy Poodles, brushing their teeth is essential. Due to them having a small mouth, their teeth may become cramped, which in-turn can cause dental issues. One of the best ways to help your dog have a healthy mouth is to brush their pearly whites at least once a week. On top of brushing, clipping, and teeth cleaning, your Toy Poodle should additionally be given regular baths and nail trimmings. Caring and Exercise Although a small dog, Toy Poodles still require daily exercise. Walks are always a great choice, but these little pups do equally as well with a game of fetch in the yard or some playtime inside. Besides physical exercise, it is just as important that your pup receives mental exercise. Keep in mind that a bored Poodle will become a destructive and sometimes disobedient Poodle. Training Your Toy Poodle When it comes to training, three of the most important items to keep in mind include: 1. Start as soon as possible Whether you adopt your Poodle when they are four months old or four years old, it is important to begin training as soon as possible. In fact, an ideal time to begin training is the very day you bring them home. By starting training early-on, this will help establish good manners, it will deter bad habits, and it will serve as a good time to build the bond between you and your dog. Be consistent Consistency is key, especially in how often you have training sessions and the words and motions you use for commands. By remaining consistent with your techniques and how often you train, this will allow your Poodle to quickly learn what is expected from them in their new household. Use positive reinforcement Toy Poodles thrive off of positive reinforcement. Great rewards for your dog can include a treat, a toy, or affection. By receiving rewards, your dog will better understand that they are doing the correct command, and chances are they will become more eager to practice the command again. Poodles are known for being among the most intelligent dog breeds, so chances are they will catch onto new commands and tricks rather quickly. Common symptoms include excessive drooling, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, and loss of appetite. While gastrointestinal issues can stem from a variety of causes, regardless, most will clear up in just one week. Ear infections: With their floppy ears, Toy Poodles can be prone to getting ear infections. Allergies: Just like humans, dogs can also develop allergies to pollen, dust, dander, grass, perfume, and food, among many other items. Common allergy symptoms can include: excessive itching, red or watery eyes, frequent sneezing or wheezing, swollen pads, and paw chewing. With food allergies, you will want to keep an eye out for vomiting or diarrhea. Skin irritation: Many Poodles are prone to having sensitive skin. Various household products such as carpet cleaners, detergents, and various grooming products can cause dry, itchy, or irritated skin on your dog. A quick fix for some households is to simply switch these products over to the hypoallergenic option. However, since puppies are born with this condition, veterinarians are often able to catch the problem when your dog is still young. While these are the most common health conditions among Toy Poodles, that does not mean that your Poodle will be affected by any or all of these conditions. Nutrition and Feeding Small dog breeds , such as the Toy Poodle, have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. Discover more about how to offer your dog a balanced diet with our easy-to-follow guide. Grooming Toy Poodles Toy Poodles do not shed and are often though not always tolerated by allergic people. Their coats do take a great deal of care, though, generally requiring professional dog grooming , as well as regular combing and brushing at home. The poodle should be taken to a groomer about every six weeks to be clipped, or you can learn how to do it yourself. A groomer will also advise on ear care. Training Toy Poodles Poodles are a joy to train as they are clever, quick to learn and love working with their owner. They can also turn their paw to dog sports such as mini agility, heelwork to music and even obedience with no problems whatsoever - and in fact training and working with their owner will keep this often-busy little dog happy and relaxed. Best Family Dog Breeds The Toy Poodle can make a fabulous family dog but are better for older children and quiet households as, especially as puppies, they are very small and easily injured by rough or boisterous play. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them. Poodles - especially the ones you see in the show ring - seem to have all kinds of crazy hairdos but these often flamboyant-looking styles all started off with a purpose. Poodles were originally water-retrieving dogs but their coats could easily get water-logged and pull them down. The answer was to clip off all their hair but leave some around their vital organs to keep them warm, and around any vulnerable joints to protect from injury. Similar breeds:.

A litter is coming soon! Join our Big Dog Family!! I continued Training dogs because dogs are my passion. After moving back to NJ, I decided to add to our family and buy a female Boxer. However, I made the mistake of taking 2 children to pick up 1 puppy.Not much long after, as fate would have it, I met another boxer lover named Jen. She had 6yr old boxer named Ginger who has the most amazing temperament! It inspired me to breed boxers again. With the amazing well tempered beautiful litter he sired, we used him again this Spring and had two beautiful litters. And most satisfying is that all will be going to amazing homes! I own the Dam and her sister, who both are amazing. She is a brindle with black mask. The Sire is a big fawn colored black mask gentle giant. We have a 6 ur old female from the same bloodline who too has an amazing temperament! About Boxers The Boxer is a medium to large, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting; colors are fawn, brindled, or white, with or without white markings. Testimonials from our Boxer Family From Luna's family: My family and I want to thank you for letting us be part of your boxer family. Our boxer puppy is from the last litter. She is a brindle and we named her Luna. When you first speak to John he puts you at ease and has professionalism, respect and knowledge. He includes you every step of the way and constantly posts pictures and updates about the litter. He also encourages at least 2 visits with your puppy and provides a free course on raising a boxer puppy. On pick up day he provides all paper work. .I have recommended John to several people. Our little luna is amazing She is a cuddle bug and is extremely gentle with my kids. She is playful and protective. She is a blessing and a great addition to our family. Thank you again John. Be well. From Butch's family: From the minute I contacted John on the website it was a very professional and enjoyable experience. Having the families all get together on the same day to meet their new puppies was a great experience. Pickup day was also well organized and I also enjoyed seeing all the puppies from the last litter at 6 months of age. This was our 5th boxer but by far the most enjoyable experience in getting a new puppy. We were searching for a reputable Boxer breeder and were very happy that we found John. He was very friendly and professional. He kept us updated on the different stages of Taco's wellbeing. The chance to meet our pup Taco and provide an article of our choosing to help acclimate Taco to his new family was very considerate. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a Boxer. Taco has become an integral part of our lives and we thank John for Taco. He is very friendly and answers questions - no matter how many you have! I was even able to come and meet the mother to see her personality and to meet John in person, which was a huge factor in making my decision to go with Big Dog Boxers. John cares about the dogs that come from his litter. He stays in touch and loves seeing pictures of how the dogs are progressing. You can see he truly cares about all the dogs. He has the best temperament and is very handsome. I am always getting stopped by people when I walk him he loves walks because of how beautiful his brindle coating is. Odin loves to cuddle and to play ball.Although I do not have children, Odin is exposed to my nieces and the children on my block - they all love him and he loves them - they all get excited to see each other! I do have a .My brother got one of the females from the same litter.I can't recommend John and Big Dog Boxers enough. When the time comes for me to get a second boxer, I will only go to Big Dog Boxers. From Samson's family: Having only experience with smaller breeds, we felt a little out of our depth when we decided to bring a boxer into our family. John paired us with the perfect puppy. John was terrific with providing information about the breed and answering all of our questions, so we felt much more confident when it was time to bring Samson home. From Hamilton's family From start to finish John was very communicative and responsive to all our questions and was always keeping us updated. John clearly cares about the litter and their health. We love our not so small baby boy that we got and couldn't be happier with our experience. From Daisy's Family John was great to work with right from the beginning. Answered all my questions and made sure I had all the information I needed. Daisy is a great pup and we love her so much. She has a wonderful temperament and has been easy to train. Our puppy Jasper has turned out to be oe of the finest Boxers we have owned! He is our 7th. His temperament is very sweet and funny. We had just lost our beloved Boxer 2 months prior and as fate would have it, Arnold became available. Within days we were able to meet Arnold and it was love at first site. John would send us updates as Arnold grew. John is very transparent and the puppies were loved and cared for as if he was keeping them all. Such a pleasure to work with. Please go on to Instagram and TikTok bigdogboxers to like! A young Ginger Nothing much has changed.She still runs around like a puppy! Sampson to Vet. If you and your Boxer dog have been stuck in the house more than you'd like over a cold, snowy winter you're probably both itching to be spending more time outside. Most likely your Boxer will be more active in warm weather. Do you need to prepare your dog? Wondering if there's any summer safety tip for Boxer dogs? There definitely is. Primarily, there are 2 areas of concern: The heat and the elements that warm weather brings. While we will touch on how the heat and sun can directly affect your Boxer dog, other factors to consider are how the warm weather causes other things to be in the environment. This ranges from insects to parasites to the element of standing water. So, let's gear up for summer to make sure our Boxers are super safe, super happy, and can enjoy the warmer season without having any issues. Summer Care Tip 1 - Be Aware of Your Boxer's Water Intake Due to an increase in activity and a slight decrease in food, coupled with rising temperatures, your Boxer is going to need more water in the summer than during the cooler and colder months. In regard to the increased activity, this is not just one burst of running or an extra 10 minutes added to a walk. Even if a Boxer is not being given purposeful exercise in hot weather, just due to the nicer temps, there is typically more movement. For most owners, this will not be exceedingly noticeable; most Boxers will not flat-out refuse to eat, it is more of a slight decrease spread out over the course of the entire day. This does however add up and since all food even dry kibble holds some water, this means he will need to drink that water instead of eating it. The third factor is of course rising temperatures. As you probably know, canines sweat from the paws pads; but they also pant when it's hotter out. When panting, this not only allows moisture on the tongue to evaporate, heavy breathing draws moisture from the lining of the lungs and that moisture evaporates as well. And it needs to be replaced. How much water a Boxer dog needs will be based on the weight of your dog. Summer time: up to 1. Summer time: 3. Summer time max high end: 5. Summer time max high end: 7. Summer time max high end 8. Summer time max high end: .Severe signs of dehydration are quite obvious: The gums become dry and sticky, saliva becomes thick, eyes are super sunken and there is severe weakness. Just a small 1. Fast water consumption is a trigger for killer bloat. To increase safe, all-day water consumption in the summer you can: 1 Offer filtered water. This should be done year-round, but we want to take this time to note that unfiltered tap water is horrible for both human and canine consumption. In the US, it can LEGALLY contain cancer causing agents and other contaminants that can cause all sorts of health issues including skin lesions, intestinal polyps, allergic dermatitis, stomach distress and much more. Just the legal limits of copper are proven to cause liver and kidney damage long-term. How can this be? Because the laws say it is safe in small amounts and many people drink a lot of other things beside the water from their kitchen tap if they dare do so at all. But your Boxer dog's only liquid to drink is water. And he'll be drinking even more in the summer. So, please connect a quality filter to your kitchen sink or use an effective water pitcher. Bring some when you're out driving around and give him some when you park the car. Visiting friends with your Boxer? Bring his water. Make a bunch of flavored ice cube treats. You can use low-salt chicken or beef broth or juice; try apple, cranberry or orange make sure to get real juice and not the fake flavored kind. Here are some great products that will all work together to help: 1 A canine cooling mat - These are awesome. A cooling mat or gel pad sized for your Boxer offers a super 'chill' experience where your Boxer can just plop down and instantly feel good on a hot day. A quality one will stay cool for hours by drawing excess heat out of a dog's body, and many puppies and dogs find that 'ahhhh' relief that so many need in the summer time. These are particularly useful for Boxer puppies that aren't quite big enough to stick their heads halfway out the window and end up being bombarded with glaring rays when buckled into their car seat. Don't get an inflatable one. Just a 'cheap' poly plastic pools you know, the ones you can just grab at Walmart will do just fine. Fill it up, throw in a few toys and many puppies and dogs are happy as clams. Puppies, especially if they are with other dogs, will jump and play around and it's super fun to watch. Many older Boxers will flop down, happy to just sit in it… and it's common for an older dog to soak himself, get out, wait a bit and then repeat. The canine equivalent of a hammock of sorts, this type of dog bed keeps a Boxer up high with good air flow under him. Most dogs love this since they can lie down but still be a bit higher to see all the action. If you don't see the images, try a refresh. And on mobile, you may need to turn your screen horizontal to see all 4. After all, it's out there to get all the beating of the sun's ray with no protection… no extra fur to hang down and offer a bit of shading, nothing. And dogs can get sunburn on the nose even if the sun is behind clouds. Clouds block light, but only reduce - not block - UV rays. And oddly, some newer studies show that certain cloud patterns can enhance UV rays that reach the Earth. Crazy but true. Without nose protection, Boxers can get a slightly sunburned nose that will then be over-dry and prone to peeling with continued exposure to the sun throughout the summer. The Fix - No need to do anything if it's a day that you'll be off at work and your Boxer will be inside. But on weekends and any days that you'll be in and out of the house with your dog, use a quality nose balm. That's it. Just dab a good nose butter or balm on the nose. If you know you'll be out with your Boxer for more than 30 minutes on a warm to hot sunny day, apply this 20 minutes before heading out. Since these come in either small tubes similar to a Chapstick or in a small round tin, it's easy to bring along with you; so if you'll be out with your Boxer for several hours or most of the day, bring it along with you and reapply every 2 hours. Our recommended nose balm see below is also great for fixing an already dry or cracked nose. Paws - Don't make the mistake of thinking your dog's paws are invincible. Any surface other than grass can burn your Boxer's paws. Or these can be injury to the skin layers. Many owners don't head out to walk their dog while barefoot and just don't realize how hot the ground surfaces can be. Cement, asphalt, sand… it can all heat up quick and radiate heat out. Studies have been done on this you didn't think we wouldn't back this up, right? The most common walking surfaces sidewalks and neighborhood pavements are made of an asphalt and concrete mixture. This has been shown to heat up to as much as degrees Fahrenheit hotter than the air temperature. This does depend on how long the sun has been beating down on it and if there is any shade, etc. The time of day matters as well, since it has been shown to be hottest at noon. Stella, 5 years old Photo courtesy of Mr. How hot is this? An egg can fry in 5 minutes at degrees 55 C. At F .So, while you don't want to baby your Boxer and walking on different surfaces is actually GREAT sand, rock, gravel, cement, etc. The fix:1 Test the pavement before heading out. Since you can't really stick a thermometer in the road, carefully press your hand onto the surface for a count of 8 if possible without injury. If it feels too hot to you, it's too hot for your Boxer dog without protection. And be careful when you do this, because it may be so hot that if you don't pull your hand away, you can get a burn within literally one second. This doesn't mean you can't walk your Boxer on a hot day or if the sidewalks are hot, it just means you have to protect the paws. The other option is dog shoes, but 1, many dogs don't do well with these especially if they aren't used to wearing them and 2, many owners balk at the idea…'He's a Boxer, he doesn't need shoes! Just be sure to use a good one that gives a semi-permeable shield that is absorbed into the paws, allowing perspiration to escape through the toes. As a side note, this is also really good for winter care to protect against ice melt chemical and other wintertime elements. A good product will only need to be applied about 2 or 3 times a week and absorb quickly so that it's easy to use. You just smear it on and when you see that's into not all slippery on your hands, that means it's well coated on the your Boxer's paws. Your Boxer's body- Different breeds are more or less prone to sunburn. The Boxer is among the top 6 breeds more prone to sunburn and resulting skin cancer that can develop from years of exposure. White Boxers or those with flash will sunburn quicker; but even dark Boxers should be protected. On the main body, you might not even realize there's an issue of over-exposure or a burn since this is happening under the fur. But, there'll be discomfort and then itching and, possible poor coat health. The stomach is a vulnerable area, dogs don't need to lie up facing the sun to get a burn here. Sun can reflect up from ground surfaces and from water. Again, to help prevent sun burns and possible sun cancer, protection is key. The Fix - There's two great methods to protect your Boxer's skin: Leave-in coat spray with sunscreen. This is good for fawn or brindle Boxers and is an effective method for normal duration spent outside. Canine sun block. This is the best choice for white Boxers or those that are very flashing. And this is what you'll want to use if your Boxer will be spending a good portion of a summer day outside. This can go both on the coat and on the belly skin. Below are our top recommendations for summer sun protection:. Nose balm, paw wax, a leave-in coat spray, and the only FDA compliant sunscreen for pets it's the equivalent of 30 to 40 SPF. Other Summer Care Tips for Boxers While we covered the most important care tips, there are a few more to go over. Some of these are just common sense, but it the spirit of always giving you the best info possible, we're going to list them. While some may seem to be a 'given', there are some added details here that we think you should consider. Don't leave your Boxer in the car. It doesn't matter if it's 'just for a minute' or if the windows are down. Just don't do it. Don't let your Boxer near the barbecue or outside campfires. Again, common sense. But it should be noted that some dogs are tempted by sticks that may be lobbed into outdoor fire pits…and while you'd think that they would fear the fire, the temptation of chasing after a stick that was thrown can trigger an automated response. So, while your intention may be to stoke the flames, a dog may not know that and end up with serious injury. Don't leave your Boxer dog outside alone in the heat for a long time. Again, this is a given. But one thing to keep in mind is that an owner's intention may be to let a Boxer run around a bit in an enclosed yard for say 20 or 30 minutes… But what if an emergency comes up… or some other issue prevents you from letting him in on time. The sun moves higher in the sky, the temps rise, he's without water… yeah, this could turn bad. Keep up on flea and tick prevention. Pesky ticks and fleas are at their peak during the summer months in many areas. If you don't feel completely at ease with what your using on your Boxer, reassess and choose a product you feel comfortable with see next point below for recommendations. Use a safe mosquito repellent on your Boxer dog so he doesn't get swarmed and bit. Look for a natural, safe product with lavender, cedarwood, and rosewood. Recommended insect repellent: First, check the heartworm prevention that you're giving to your Boxer; most also repel fleas. But, then there's still ticks and mosquitoes to worry about. Since many products have high chemical counts, you may want to consider using a no-chemical, all-natural repellent. It's a balm that you massage between your palms for it to melt, then you apply it to your Boxer's neck and upper back. Normally, it needs to be reapplied every 2 weeks or so. If your Boxer has been in salt water or a pool with chloride, be sure to rinse the coat off well. If not, there can be skin and coat drying issues to contend with. Boxers can be pretty good swimmers, but they can tire out quickly too. A dog can find himself out too far without enough steam to get back. If out boating or in deep water, be smart and place a quality life vest on your Boxer. This way he can have tons of fun cooling off and you don't have to worry about issues. Oliver, 14 months old Photo courtesy of The Wood Family 8. Dogs get stung by bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets as much as humans do. While the fur offers some protection, it's not uncommon for these insects to sting a dog on his underbelly, paws, or even his face. There's a few things to know… 1 A hive can be anywhere… the cracks in a home's outside exterior, that bush right near where your dog goes to the bathroom, underneath storage sheds… really anywhere and it can be on or close to the house. Heather Connally, a board-certified vet in emergency and critical care and co-owner of the Veterinary Specialty Center of Tucson, a dog's bark can set off a hive. Most humans and dogs can outrun bees even Africanized bees if they are able to run i. So, you'll if your Boxer dog is getting swarmed, grab his leash and run with him…. A dog may need antihistamines, steroids or even epinephrine if he's having a really bad reaction. So, if your Boxer gets stung multiple times, keep a super close eye on him and better is to just be proactive and bring him to the vet. Don't try to pull it out with a tweezers, because that can release venom into the bloodstream. Summary When we started writing this for you, we thought it'd be a quick summer care reference with info most owners know but just needed a little reminder. As we dug deeper, we realized we typed half the day and that there really is a good amount of care tips that all come together to keep our Boxers happy, safe and healthy. Don't feel overwhelmed, but do please jot down the bullet points and take care of each one. Before you know it, you'll be all set for an awesome summer season with your awesome Boxer! Things to do now.Become a Member - Receive a friendly reminder when a new page of info is added to the site. Check out our book - Simply the most comprehensive, helpful Boxer dog book that exists.