tri color bernedoodle puppies

F1 Goldendoodle Puppies are the first-generation breed. Mom is a Golden Retriever and Dad is a poodle. They have a wavy or soft curly hair coat with minimal shedding after they have lost their puppy fur. They should be on a 6-month grooming schedule. They have the even-tempered personality that takes after the Golden Retriever. They vary in size from 45 - 85 pounds. They have a soft curly haircoat with almost no shedding. They are semi-hypoallergenic and are a great choice for a person who suffers from pet allergies. They require more frequent grooming and should be on a week grooming schedule. They have loyal and intelligent temperaments. Their hair coat is curly and much more poodle than Retriever. They are hypoallergenic and have no shedding. They should be on a week grooming schedule. They have loving and super-intelligent personalities but tend to have more energy. This variation is also smaller in size, they make great apartment dogs. Are Goldendoodle Puppies good pets? What are Goldendoodles Personality and Temperament like? They have loving and affectionate personalities like the Golden Retriever but also have the Superintelligence and hypoallergenic traits of the poodle. They are loyal, very eager to please, and make great companions for families or individuals. With their larger size, they make great dogs for active lifestyles with room to live. They get very attached to people that spend time with them and love to be close to them. Are Goldendoodles good pets for families with kids? Goldendoodles are very loving and have great temperaments. Doodles have lots of energy and will play for hours with children. They also love to cuddle with the family when they get tired. Doodles are also good with other pets in the household. Just beware of their larger size and the need for greater vigilance as a pet owner around smaller children and animals. What is the Lifespan of Goldendoodles? The average expected lifespan of a Goldendoodle is years. Some people like the look of longer hair and wait weeks between groomings. Most Goldendoodles have longer ears that need to be inspected regularly to make sure they are not dirty or have any signs of an infection. After a puppy is reserved it is our goal to make the update within minutes with few exceptions outside holidays and unforeseen events. You can be confident the available puppies and their pictures shown are accurate and up to date. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Columbus Ohio and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! Are you looking for Mini Goldendoodles in Ohio? At Hidden Road Doodles we know Doodles! We are a family doodle breeder that has specialized in Poodle crosses for over a decade now. We believe in the best nutrition for our puppies and parents as well as making sure our puppies are well socialized by the time they are ready for their forever home. All of our puppies come with a one-year health guarantee against congenital illness. Our farm is located in the rolling hills of central Ohio and we would love to have you stop by for a visit. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. Our puppies are excited to move to Ohio! These sweet F1b Mini Goldendoodles are just what you have been looking for!!! They all would be super excited to meet you. Each of these puppies has been very well looked after. They are all up to date on their shots and dewormed, and have all had wellness checks with the vet. They are very playful, outgoing, and family-raised. These energetic and friendly little pups will make the perfect traveling companion and even better, best friends!! If there are no puppies that suit your fancy, please sign up for our new litter alerts. When we have a new litter you will get an email about the new litter when it is to be posted to the website. Mini Goldendoodle via doodle. You want to choose one carefully as their breeding practices will have an impact on the temperament and health of your Mini Goldendoodle puppy. Start by looking at online sources such as Google reviews, online forums, discussion groups and social media platforms to see what other people are saying about the breeder. Did they have a good experience buying from them? To take your research a bit further, you can ask Goldendoodle organizations and clubs based in your area about their opinion of the breeder you are considering to purchase from. Many Goldendoodle clubs also have their own lists of responsible breeders so they can give you additional recommendations for good Mini Goldendoodle breeders. You may also consider visiting some dog shows and events as they are a good opportunity to meet breeders in person and see their Mini Goldendoodles. You can also ask other dog owners that are showing their Mini Goldendoodles for breeder recommendations. Finally, ask potential breeders for references and consider contacting these people to ask about their experience with the breeder. Reputable breeders always prioritize the well-being of their dogs and strive for positive reviews. You should inquire about temperament and health of the Mini Goldendoodles these people purchased. Use this information to make an informed decision. All reputable Mini Goldendoodle breeders conduct them on their breeding dogs — whether they are breeding from purebred Golden Retrievers for F1 Goldendoodles and Poodles or from Goldendoodles for later generations like F2 Goldendoodles. A stipulates the health testing requirements for Goldendoodles and if the breeder is registered with G. A, you know that the breeding dogs have undergone full health testing. A heart clearance O. Ask to see documentation of these clearances before purchasing from a Mini Goldendoodle breeder. All responsible breeders should be willing to provide any health documentation. They should also be happy to answer any questions you have about their breeding program. However, if you have the opportunity to check out the facilities you should do it. Check that the kennels are clean, that they dogs and puppies have access to fresh water and also that there is not a build up of feces or urine. Comfortable living conditions: The breeder should keep their Mini Goldendoodles, Golden Retrievers and Poodles in comfortable living conditions. They should have large, comfortable kennels or dog beds and also have a decent amount of space to exercise and socialize with other dogs. Healthy breeding dogs and puppies: If you get the opportunity to meet the parents of the Mini Goldendoodle litter you are interested in, make sure they are well-tempered and also healthy. Sometimes the mother will be quite protective of her puppies so she may show signs of aggression. If you are purchasing a puppy online and getting it delivered, ask if the breeder would be happy to video call you or send videos of their Mini Goldendoodle puppies and breeding dogs to you. Ask About Socialization Mini Goldendoodle breeders should begin the socialization process before their puppies are sold. The puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of sounds, experiences, people and places so they can adjust to their new homes and adult life. Nevertheless, they should start exposing them to sounds like household appliances, provide mental stimulation with toys and games and also encourage playtime and interactions with their littermates and family. The most common ones are: Lack of registration: If a Mini Goldendoodle breeder cannot provide registration papers or other relevant documentation, it may be a sign that they are not operating a reputable breeding program. Overbreeding: Think twice about purchasing from a Mini Goldendoodle breeder who always has puppies available or offers an excessive amount of dog breeds. This may suggest that the breeder is overly focused on profit instead of the health and wellbeing of their puppies. Lack of health checks: A reputable Mini Goldendoodle breeder will conduct health clearances on their breeding dogs to ensure they are free of genetic health issues that could be passed on. If a breeder cannot provide documentation of these health checks, it may be a sign that they are not prioritizing health. Further Reading.

By choosing a dog food with top ingredients, you can ensure your Frenchie receives the essential nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. Salmon, poultry, and lamb are particularly beneficial sources of protein for French Bulldogs. Healthy Fats Healthy fats, such as omega-6 fatty acids, are an excellent source of nutrition for French Bulldogs. These fatty acids help maintain a healthy immune system, promote healthy skin, and result in a glossy coat. By providing your Frenchie with a diet rich in healthy fats, you can support their skin and coat health while helping to moderate inflammation. Beneficial Supplements In addition to high-quality protein and healthy fats, beneficial supplements like prebiotic fiber, probiotics, glucosamine, chondroitin, taurine, and omega fatty acids should be considered for French Bulldog dog food. Prebiotic fiber and probiotics are formulated to be gentle on the digestive system and promote digestion. Glucosamine and chondroitin are essential for joint health and support joint and cartilage health maintenance. Taurine and omega fatty acids have been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Some dog foods that include these beneficial supplements are: Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food, which contains taurine for cardiovascular health Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food — which provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. By choosing a dog food with these beneficial supplements, you can provide your Frenchie with a well-rounded diet that supports their overall health. Potential Allergies and Sensitivities in French Bulldogs French Bulldogs may be prone to allergies and sensitivities , making it important to research the ingredients in their food and consult a vet if necessary. Some common sensitivities in French Bulldogs include corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. If your Frenchie shows signs of allergies or sensitivities, it is essential to evaluate the ingredients in their food and seek veterinary advice if needed. If you suspect your French Bulldog has a food allergy , you may want to consider a limited-ingredient dog food or a grain-free diet. By being aware of potential allergies and sensitivities and choosing the right dog food, you can help your Frenchie maintain a healthy and happy life. Feeding Guidelines for French Bulldogs Feeding guidelines for French Bulldogs include following label recommendations for feeding quantity and dividing daily servings into smaller meals for sustained energy supply. For French Bulldog puppies , it is recommended to provide them with 1. Puppies aged between 2 to 6 months should be supplied with three meals per day, whereas older puppies should be given two meals daily. Adult and senior French Bulldogs should also be fed two meals per day. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your Frenchie receives the right amount of food for their age, weight, and activity level, helping them maintain a healthy body weight and preventing potential health issues. Our Top Picks: Best Dog Foods for French Bulldogs in Our top picks for the best dog food for French Bulldogs in include a variety of options tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of this charming breed. From weight management formulas to grain-free options and specialized diets for puppies and seniors, these dog foods offer the essential nutrients your Frenchie needs to thrive. Pet owners recommend this dog food for its weight maintenance benefits, quality ingredients, and multiple protein sources. Additionally, it is free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and contains taurine, which acts as a natural antioxidant for your pup. By choosing the best overall dog food for your Frenchie, you can support their overall health and well-being. This dog food is specifically tailored for overweight and less active dogs, providing an optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help them reach their weight goals and maintain an energetic lifestyle. However, the benefits it offers in terms of weight management and affordability make it a great value option for French Bulldog owners. Food and food are both great options when it comes to feeding your French Bulldog puppies. Both provide a complete, balanced diet for their growth and development. Food provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. It is also easy to digest for optimal nutrient absorption, making it an ideal choice for your Frenchie puppy. It is worth noting that some puppies may not take to Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food, and it is more expensive than other dog food options due to its breed-specific nature. However, the benefits it offers in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it a top choice for French Bulldog puppies. It provides optimal nutrition to maintain their health and wellbeing. This specialized diet is formulated for French Bulldogs over the age of twelve months and includes L-carnitine and top-notch protein to sustain optimal muscle mass, probiotics to minimize intestinal fermentation, and a kibble design that is easy for Frenchies to consume and encourages chewing. While some dogs may not accept Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food and it is costly, the benefits it provides in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it an ideal choice for senior French Bulldogs. Customers say their dogs love the taste of this food. Additionally, it is excellent for dogs with food allergies. No longer will they suffer from itchy paws or diarrhea. By choosing a dog food specifically designed for French Bulldogs with allergies, you can help alleviate their allergy symptoms and provide them with a diet that supports their overall health and well-being. Customers have reported that their dogs enjoy the flavor of Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble and have maintained a healthy coat when consuming this food. By choosing a grain-free dog food option for your French Bulldog, you can support their overall health while accommodating their dietary needs. They come in a wide variety of flavors and are packed with lots of nutrition. Our dogs do deserve the best! Gradually introducing the new food over a period of days can help avoid these problems. If your dog experiences any digestive issues or stomach discomfort, consult your veterinarian for advice. Foods to avoid include chocolate, coffee, tea, grapes, and raisins. Instead, consider offering your Frenchie safe and healthy alternatives such as oatmeal, sweet potatoes, brown rice, fish, chicken, vegetables carrots, green beans, broccoli , and fruits apples, bananas, blueberries. It is always a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you are uncertain about what foods are appropriate for your French Bulldog. By providing your Frenchie with safe and healthy food alternatives, you can promote their overall health and well-being. Homemade Dog Food Options for French Bulldogs While commercially manufactured foods are generally recommended for French Bulldogs, some owners may prefer to prepare homemade dog food for their pets. Suitable ingredients for homemade dog food for French Bulldogs include cooked lean meats, cooked eggs, cooked vegetables, cooked grains, and healthy fats. If you choose to prepare homemade dog food for your French Bulldog, it is essential to ensure that the diet provides the necessary nutrients to support their health and well-being. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on creating a balanced and nutritious homemade diet for your Frenchie. Summary In conclusion, selecting the best dog food for your Frenchie is an essential part of supporting their overall health and well-being. By understanding their unique nutritional needs, choosing high-quality ingredients, and providing a diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level, you can ensure your Frenchie thrives. With the right nutrition, your Frenchie will enjoy a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. Frequently Asked Questions What are Frenchies allergic to? French can suffer from environmental allergies such as dust mites, pollens, molds, and grass as well as food allergies such as corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. Taking steps to reduce exposure to allergens can help keep your Frenchie healthy and comfortable. This could include things like keeping the house clean, using air purifiers, and avoiding areas with high pollen. What should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? As the owner of a French Bulldog puppy, it is important to ensure your pup is getting the right nutrients. Feed them high-quality, nutritionally complete puppy food and, if desired, lean raw meat to provide them with the balanced diet they need. When he's not spending time with his furry best friend "Freddy II", you can find him reading up on the latest Frenchie trends or exploring new parks and hiking trails with his dapper little Frenchie by his side. Whether you're a seasoned Frenchie owner or just starting your journey, Freddy is excited to share his experiences and insights with you through his articles on this website. French Bulldog puppies have unique dietary needs that require special attention. There are a few key factors to consider. First off, opt for puppy-specific formulas that meet their nutritional requirements. Avoid recipes with fillers or artificial additives — go for wholesome kibble made especially for small dogs like Frenchies. A balanced diet is crucial in preventing common issues such as paw licking or upset tummies. With proper nutrition, your Frenchie pup will be ready to conquer the world one playful bark at a time. This premium dog food provides a balanced diet with a combination of high-quality proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It contains essential nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote healthy growth and support a strong immune system. One of the key features of Royal Canin Small Puppy is its small kibble size, which makes it easier for Frenchie puppies to chew and digest. This formula includes prebiotics to support digestive health and aid in nutrient absorption. The inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids contributes to healthy skin and a shiny coat. This grain-inclusive formula includes deboned chicken as the primary source of protein along with wholesome grains like brown rice. The blend of fruits, vegetables, and superfoods in Wellness Complete Health Puppy ensures that your furry friend receives essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe also incorporates omega fatty acids for healthy brain development and DHA for optimal eye health. We have never used this brand but I hear great things about it. This formula features deboned chicken as the main ingredient, providing a high-quality source of protein to support muscle development. What sets Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy Recipe apart is its inclusion of whole grains like brown rice and barley. These grains offer a good source of energy and fiber while promoting healthy digestion. The recipe also includes fruits and vegetables such as apples, blueberries, and sweet potatoes to provide additional nutrients. Royal Canin has been our go to french bulldog puppy food. After trying multiple brands such as Purina, Stella and Chewy, and Merrick no large quantity available for purchase, small bags got expensive , Royal Canin has never let us down. We have never noticed skin problems, intolerance, and poops have always been great. Other brands have caused vomiting, diarrhea, and skin reactions to name a few. French Bulldog puppies are energetic and growing rapidly, which means they need frequent meals throughout the day. It is recommended to feed them three to four times daily until they reach six months of age. This regular feeding schedule helps maintain their energy levels and supports proper growth. Follow the recommended portion sizes based on their age and weight. Different brands may have specific guidelines tailored for French Bulldog puppies or small breed puppies in general. For puppies aged weeks: 1 cup of food per meal. Victor Ocean Fish All Life Stages Dog Food Remember that these portions can vary depending on individual factors such as activity level and metabolism. Adjust the portion sizes accordingly if you notice significant weight gain or loss. Monitor their weight gain and adjust feeding amounts accordingly. While puppies naturally gain weight as they grow, excessive weight gain can lead to health issues such as joint problems. Keep an eye on their body condition and consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns about their weight. If your puppy is gaining too much weight, consider reducing the portion sizes slightly or switching to a lower-calorie puppy food formula. On the other hand, if they are not gaining enough weight or appear undernourished, consult with your vet to determine if an increase in portion size or a different type of food is necessary. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your French Bulldog puppy receives the nutrition they need during this crucial stage of growth. Providing proper nutrition will help set the foundation for a healthy and happy adult French Bulldog. Feeding your Frenchie the wrong food can lead to serious health issues and discomfort. Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be highly toxic for dogs. Even small amounts can cause symptoms like restlessness, increased heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, seizures or even death. Onions and Garlic: A Recipe for Anemia While onions and garlic might add flavor to our meals, they pose a significant risk to our four-legged companions. This could lead to anemia and potentially life-threatening complications for your French Bulldog. The exact reason behind this toxicity is still unknown; however, ingestion of these fruits has been linked to kidney failure in some dogs. Xylitol: Sweetness Turns Sour Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar-free products like gum or candy. While it may be harmless for humans, it can be extremely dangerous for dogs. If ingested by your French Bulldog, xylitol can cause a sudden release of insulin, leading to a rapid drop in blood sugar levels. This can result in seizures, liver failure, or even death. Opt for high-quality dog food specifically formulated for their needs. Look for options that include meat protein sources like chicken or salmon, as these are beneficial for their muscle development and overall health. Make sure the food you choose contains adequate amounts of vitamins and fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat. Avoid foods with excessive fat content that could lead to weight gain or digestive issues such as loose stools. Stick to dog-friendly fruits and veggies as treats instead. Chicken fat as dog food High-fat meats, chicken skin and fat from steaks or roasts are not recommended. Ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal upset or even pancreatitis. This can be a very painful condition for dogs. Providing a healthy diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. Opting for lean proteins like chicken and turkey ensures they receive high-quality nutrients without excessive fat content. These proteins promote muscle development, support growth, and provide essential amino acids for overall health. Opt for natural alternatives that are free from these artificial additives. Whole Grains: Nourishing Carbohydrate Sources Carbohydrates play a role in providing energy to your puppy. However, not all carbohydrates are created equal. Instead of fillers like corn or wheat that offer limited nutritional value, look for whole grains such as brown rice or oats. These whole food ingredients provide fiber, vitamins, minerals while promoting steady energy levels throughout the day. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promoting Healthy Skin and Coat To maintain healthy skin and a lustrous coat on your furry friend, incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into their diet. Sources like fish oil offer an abundance of these beneficial fats that nourish their skin from within. Not only do omega-3s contribute to a shiny coat but they also help reduce inflammation and support healthy skin and overall health. By opting for lean proteins, avoiding artificial additives, incorporating whole grains, and including omega-3 fatty acids, you are providing the essential nutrients they need to thrive. Remember, a healthy diet sets the foundation for a happy and active French Bulldog. So be mindful of what goes into their food bowl to ensure they grow up strong and free from unnecessary health problems. Now that you understand the importance of healthy ingredients in food, you can make informed choices when selecting the very best dog food options for your furry companion. Keep their health in mind as you provide them with nourishing meals that will support their growth and overall well-being. By following these feeding guidelines, you can provide your Frenchie with the balanced nutrition they need to stay in optimal health. Obesity can lead to various health problems such as joint issues, heart disease, and respiratory difficulties. To keep track of their weight effectively, consider using a digital scale designed for pets or consult with your veterinarian. Adjusting Portion Sizes French Bulldogs have different dietary requirements based on their activity level and age. Puppies require more calories and nutrients to support their growth and development compared to adult dogs. To determine the appropriate portion size for your puppy or adult dog, consider consulting with animal nutritionists or your veterinarian. They can provide personalized recommendations based on factors such as breed-specific needs and individual metabolism. Excessive treats can contribute to weight gain if not properly regulated. Instead of relying solely on treats for positive reinforcement, try using praise or playtime as alternative rewards. Be mindful of the calorie content in both regular meals and treats. Opt for healthier options like small pieces of lean meat or fruits and vegetables that are safe for dogs. You could even use it as a meal topper to make meal time more fun. There are hundreds of different options on the market all claiming to be the best, no wonder our Frenchie parents constantly turn to us asking what they should feed their puppies. The usual nutritional needs of French Bulldog A well-balanced Frenchie diet should contain the correct amounts of macronutrients: water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. However, this is only a general guideline, and a more accurate calculation can be made based on specific factors. For instance, the age and activity level of your dog are essential factors to consider. Hormonal changes can cause neutered dogs to become less active than their fertile counterparts. Store-bought vs. Most commercial dog foods and canned goods contain preservatives, flavor enhancers, coloring, and other additives. Instead of real meat, they often contain animal by-products or meat meal, which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email When you cook food for your dogs, you can be sure of what goes into their bowl. Finally, homemade meals can prolong the average French Bulldog lifespan , so we definitely recommend homemade food! Why is it so hard to find the right dog food? Feeding is an evergreen topic among Frenchie parents in our Facebook group. They know they should feed their puppy with high-quality premium dog food to keep their baby healthy and fit, but they are left puzzled when they see the plethora of different choices. The answer is actually quite simple: every Frenchie is different and what works for one puppy may unfortunately cause problems for the other. The best French Bulldog breeders will always give you advice on how to continue feeding your puppy once you welcome them home. So what are the most important things to consider while trying to find the perfect food for your Frenchie? Read on to find out! The quality of dog food is always determined by the percentage of its protein content, in other words, the amount of meat or fish it contains. So what should you pay attention to when looking at the ingredients list? This could be beef, lamb, salmon, or any other type of meat. The list usually ends with some sort of animal fat, vegetables, and fruits. Jasper, available French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Any other ingredient not mentioned above is only included to increase the volume of the dog food and to ensure the most economical production possible. So, if you see that a food contains an unrealistic amount of filler ingredients like wheat, corn, or chemical preservatives, it is definitely not a suitable and healthy choice for your Frenchie. Dog foods without chicken and grains A question that always comes up when choosing the right food for a Frenchie is whether it has to be chicken or grain-free. For that reason, we usually recommend giving chicken and grain-free food right from the start to avoid any possible problems. Makayla, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies That means that if you look at the list of ingredients, you can find companies whose food meets all the criteria we mentioned above and is much more affordable. Like with so many things, the name is not everything! On the other hand, if the kibble is too large they will have difficulties consuming the food. The flavor of the dog food When looking at dog foods, you can choose from lots of different flavors like a lamb, fish, beef, duck, etc. If one of the foods from a particular brand works fine for your Frenchie, the flavors can and should be changed as long as they have the same nutritional values. A varied diet is important not only for humans but dogs as well, not to mention that your fur baby will be very happy to taste some new flavors. The stool of your Frenchie A very important criterion and perhaps the best indicator of the given food is suitable for your Frenchie is their stool. A healthy stool should always be completely solid, which means you can easily collect it with a bag. You should always ensure a smooth transition by gradually mixing in more and more of the new food with the old to avoid any dietary issues. Signs of a food allergy in your Frenchie We have already mentioned that Frenchies tend to be allergic to chicken, but what are the actual signs of a food allergy? The most common symptoms include scratching, hair loss, dull lifeless fur, inflamed eyes and ears often with some discharge, paw licking, swelling, but also vomiting, and loose stools. You may not notice all of these and the degree to which they occur may also vary. Any of these symptoms indicate that an immediate change of diet is necessary, about which you should always consult your vet first. Eating a bit more slowly and with less appetite are usually signs telling you to cut out the middle meal. As for the amount, nice-looking French Bulldogs are a bit stockier, so you should always increase and lower the amount of their food with that in mind. Read our article to learn more about maintaining a healthy body weight for your Frenchie. Odie, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Special recommendations by TomKings Puppies The best food for French Bulldog with a sensitive stomach For dogs with sensitive stomachs, we always recommend home-cooked food , so you can be sure of what your dog is eating. However, it is important to ensure that the transition from store-bought to home-cooked dog food is gradual. Consultation with a veterinarian can also be helpful in determining the best wet food for a French Bulldog. It is essential to choose a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Look for products that are labeled as complete and balanced, which means they contain all the essential nutrients your French Bulldog needs in the right proportions. The best dry food for French Bulldogs Although cheaper dry food may appear to be similar to premium brands based on the label, there are significant differences in the quantity and quality of the ingredients. Additionally, we advise you to switch to adult food at the age of months. We always inform new parents of Tomkings puppies of the brands we used to feed the pups and we recommend to continue using the same brand for some time. The best raw food for Frenchies There are several types of raw food diets for dogs, including the Prey Model Diet, the B. To ensure that TomKings puppies receive only the highest quality food, we continuously evaluate available options and test the latest trends. We consult with a panel of experts and experienced puppy parents within the TomKings Frenchie Family, and we are proud to recommend the B. Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods diet. Consulting with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. In general, weight management dog foods can be a good option for overweight French Bulldogs. These foods are formulated to be lower in calories and fat while still providing high-quality protein and other essential nutrients. Avoid feeding table scraps or high-calorie treats, and make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and play. In some cases, a prescription diet recommended by a veterinarian may be necessary to help your French Bulldog achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Best food for French Bulldogs with skin allergies If your French Bulldog has skin allergies, it is important to choose a diet that is specially formulated to help support skin health and minimize potential allergens. Consultation with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. Some high-quality dog food brands offer special formulas that are designed for dogs with skin allergies. These foods typically contain limited ingredients and exclude common allergens such as wheat, soy, chicken, and dairy products. Instead, they may use alternative protein sources such as fish or venison and may contain added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help support skin health. Some veterinarians may also recommend prescription diets that are formulated specifically to manage skin allergies in dogs. These diets may contain hydrolyzed proteins, which have been broken down into smaller components to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. Even though processed dog foods might not look healthy to us, they actually contain all the nutrients that Frenchies need to stay healthy. Home-made and raw diets like B. Should I opt for dry kibble or canned wet food? Wet foods are of course more appealing to dogs, which means they get used to them easily and will not want to eat dry food again. If your Frenchie is a picky eater you can mix the dry and wet food but never give them the latter only. We recommend wet food for dogs who are ill and have no appetite. How much time does my puppy need to adjust to a new food? At what age should I switch to adult food for my French Bulldog? We usually recommend switching to adult food at the age of months old. If you notice that your puppy looks a bit chubbier or bigger compared to other Frenchies you can make this change even sooner. What is the best food for a Frenchie puppy? The best choice for your Frenchie puppy is to continue providing the same brand the breeder used to provide. This should be a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. What is the best food for an adult French Bulldog? You have several options. You can buy high-quality wet and dry god food at your local pet store or if you want more control over what goes into the bowl, you can feed your adult Frenchie with home-cooked food. Raw diets like B. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. May 31, Are you head over heels for your adorable French Bulldog puppy? These little bundles of joy bring so much laughter and love into our lives. Best Food for your French Bulldog puppy According to vets and French Bulldog experts in the US, the best bulldog diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates as well as an equal amount of healthy fats for brain power and energy. Just like humans, your dog could be allergic to some kind of food, such as corn or soy, but in most cases, they are actually allergic to fillers found in processed food. These fillers are used to add mass to the product, but have no nutritional value and are difficult to digest. The best way to save your dog from this kind of suffering is avoiding fillers and giving him whole food ingredients. These budget-friendly choices mostly trigger allergies and contribute to various health problems. Having earned the highest of all ratings, NutriSource is a great choice for puppies! Contains all the essential nutrients for the optimum health of your pet. Contains no animal by-products, whole corn, artificial additives or preservatives. Fromm Besides containing nearly all of the essential nutrients, the fact that you can get grain-free varieties and non-grain-free varieties is great. Salmon oil and probiotics have been added to aid digestion and promote good health. No corn and no wheat. Highest consumer ratings!

If not, here is the form! Get a bite of what is happening at WCBR, our dogs, our amazing adopters and all the incredible people that keep this rescue going! Email Address Woot Woo! We will never keep you chained or leashed to our list. You can run free at anytime, unsubscribe at the bottom of any emails you receive. We are so excited to have you in the fun! His love and compassion for Boxers was felt by those who had the pleasure of spending time with him. Ken loved sports and spending time with friends. He also collected sports memorabilia and other collectibles like Hot Wheels. He truly loved Milo, featured in the the photo with him. Every time we received a message from him he included a picture of him and Milo. He never gave up hope that some treatment would be the ultimate cure. He worked as long as he could and made his journey to the light in late June. His weakened system just couldn't fight any longer. He will be deeply missed by WCBR, and we wish his family peace with his loss. Thank you to so many who have donated to WCBR in his memory. Ken will forever be in our hearts. We need your help. The number of Boxers being surrendered by families and in the shelters is overwhelming. We continue to receive owner surrenders a week, along with multiple pleas from surrounding shelters for Boxers in need. So many Boxer are coming from families that are no longer able to financially care for them, just don't want them, many are dealing with illness or the Boxer's pet parent has passed away, and many just are moving. Without the funding or foster homes, sadly we have to turn away these surrenders. Please Foster, Fund or be a Forever Home. Watch Us In Action! About BRLA Boxer Rescue Los Angeles, a c 3 non-profit founded in , is funded by donations, driven by volunteers and committed to helping Boxers in need find loving homes and to help people looking to provide homes, find the Boxer that fits them best. Our mission for every adoption is a responsible lifetime match. All Boxers available for adoption are cared for in one location. Adoptions are scheduled by appointment. When you see a candidate posted on our Available Dogs page that has profile information that matches you, an adoption application should then be submitted. If your profile is a potential match to the Boxer candidate we then set up a virtual face to face interview to discuss in more detail. If we have a good pre-match an appointment will be made to come to BRLA and meet your candidate. Our adoption team will do introductions and test for compatibility to hopefully make a responsible lifetime match. You can adopt to save a life. You can donate to help us save lives. We are funded solely by private donations which are desperately need to house, feed, take care of routine medical and to be able to take on any medical needed to give a Boxer the second chance they deserve. You can save a life. All visits to our kennel for adoption or volunteering are by appointment only. A Few of our Featured Boxers.

Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. Life Span Did You Know? The Pug, or Pug Dog, is famous for its flat-faced appearance and large, soulful eyes. They are an ancient dog breed that originated in China over 2, years ago. They were originally developed as a refined pet of Chinese royalty along with the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. During this time, the Pug was considered a national treasure that outsiders could only access if one was gifted to them. Dutch traders from the s can be credited with bringing the Pug onto the world stage when they brought some back to Europe with them. The Pug made its way to the United States in the s. Now, the Pug is a popular dog breed worldwide. They are a popular companion that provides their owners with plenty of love and laughter from their comedic and playful antics. The Pug is a playful and outgoing dog breed with a charming personality. They tend to be very loving towards children and also get along well with other pets and dogs. They are a companion breed at heart known for their gentle nature and sociable personality. They love to give love and receive it in return. Their sensitive nature makes them intuitive as well and Pugs will often sense the moods of their owners and react accordingly. They crave attention and affection from their owners and are big fans of napping. This dog breed is often described as an ideal house dog and they are moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size, including apartments. The Pug also adapts well to city or country life and are a good fit for singles or families of any size. Although they are highly adaptable to various living situations, they are less adaptable to climates. Pugs are very sensitive to the heat and overexertion, so they are best-suited to moderate climates. They also love to be with their families and will not be happy if left alone for a long time. As with any dog breed, the Pug has some health conditions to be aware of. In particular, corneal ulcers and dry eye are some potential eye problems that can occur. Additionally, Pugs can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and encephalitis. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see health clearances can help allay concerns for some of these health issues. Pugs are also big foodies. They love to eat! Their love for food means this dog breed is prone to obesity. As a brachycephalic dog, their large head and short snout often cause respiratory problems, which can limit their exercise at times and contribute to weight gain. This will cause them to quickly gasp and snort, which can sound relatively alarming. These episodes are usually not harmful as your Pug is just clearing their palate and throat. The Pug tends to be easy to train and is a good fit for owners of any experience level. They are eager to please their owners and tend to pick up on commands quickly. They are sensitive souls and their feelings can be hurt easily, so they will not respond well to harsh corrections. This dog breed responds best to consistent training that focuses on positive rewards and will benefit from participation in puppy training classes. Pugs have a smooth, glossy, and short coat. Their fur is fine and soft. Although their coat is generally low-maintenance, it will shed throughout the year. Aside from brushing, Pugs only need occasional baths on an as-needed basis. Because Pugs have ears that drop down, they can be susceptible to moisture, dirt, or debris. Checking their ears regularly and cleaning as needed helps to keep them healthy and comfortable. The same goes for their iconic face wrinkles. Daily brushing is ideal, but if your Pug is not allowing you to do that, a few times a week should be sufficient. Getting your Pug used to these grooming tasks as a puppy will help make it a positive bonding experience and a much easier process throughout their life. This dog breed has a low to moderate energy level. Generally, daily walks and some play sessions are enough exercise for this dog breed. They may have short bursts of energy as they have a very playful nature, but they will tire easily. Some Pugs can handle a little more activity and even compete in some dogs sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Featured Pug Article. Vocality level 5 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament ACA delightful blend of dignity and comedy, the Pug is an amiable, playful, and confident companion. They can be stubborn and headstrong, but they are pleasant and generally willing to please. They love to cavort and show off. Upkeep The Pug needs daily exercise, either in the form of a lively game or a moderate walk. They do not do well in heat and humidity. They needs minimal coat care but daily cleaning of facial wrinkles. Their smooth coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hairs; however, the wrinkles need regular cleaning and drying to prevent skin infections. The Pug may often wheeze and snore. Health Major concerns: Pug dog encephalitis, CHD, brachycephalic syndrome Minor concerns: elongated palate, stenotic nares, patellar luxation, Legg-Perthes, entropion, KCS, skin infections, hemivertebra Occasionally seen: seizures, nerve degeneration, distichiasis, allergies, demodicosis Suggested tests: eye, hip, knee, DNA Pug dog encephalitis Life span: 12—15 years Note: The Pug cannot tolerate heat and is sensitive to anesthesia. They are prone to corneal abrasion and obesity. The Pug is somewhat of an exception in the Toy Group because they are perhaps the only one to be descended from mastiff forebears. Although their exact ancestry has been lost in antiquity, the Pug retains many mastiff characteristics. The Pug is an ancient breed, one of several miniaturized in the Orient, where they were a favorite pet of Buddhist monasteries in Tibet many centuries ago. Here they became quite popular and were recognized as the official dog of the House of Orange after one saved the life of Prince William by sounding an alarm at the approach of Spanish soldiers in .Pugs were first brought to England during Victorian times and became incredibly popular with the wealthy, displacing the King Charles Spaniel as the favored royal breed. Several Pugs were brought to England from China in .A year earlier, the breed had been recognized by the AKC. Since that time, they have remained popular a pet. Related Content.

We will have two litters of goldendoodles this fall one f1b and one f2. Waiting lists are filling up! We have bicolors, tricolors and phantoms that are available! We also have one sweet girl from our Summer litter that is available now! Our passion for golden retrievers began 20 years ago when we brought our first beautiful golden puppy home. She taught our family so much about love, loyalty and patience, and left a lasting impression on our hearts. We wanted to share our experience with other families looking for their perfect canine match, by breeding golden retrievers with outstanding temperaments, and unparalleled health! We expanded our program to include goldendoodle puppies and bernedoodle puppies to give families with allergy issues a nonshedding option. We have since fallen completely in love with our joyful, easy going doodles! We raise all of our puppies with the care and attention that they deserve, and begin training and socialization from the moment they are born. Our puppies are loving, intelligent, gentle, obedient, and healthy. We encourage visits, and would love to help you find your perfect match! Why Our Puppies Are Happier and Healthier All of our puppies are raised in our home where they interact with our family all day, every day, and are vaccinated and given four rounds of preventative dewormer before leaving at 8 weeks old. Our dogs and puppies are under the care of our veterinarian and are fed a high quality diet. We have an excellent relationship with our vet and are happy to share her information. We are very proud of the loving care that we give each of our puppies. They each experience imprinting at birth, and go through Early Neurological Stimulation for the first two weeks of life, three weeks of positive house, crate and beginning obedience training from weeks .We do not ship our puppies, but can deliver puppies to their new owners within a certain distance under some circumstances. All of our puppies come with a health guarantee and health record, as well as a puppy pack including information and samples. We have done extensive genetic health testing and OFA clearances on all of our lines and are proud to share our health certificates. Why Our Breeding Program Is Better We are a small-scale boutique breeder, and we only breed a limited number of puppies each year. This allows us to focus on each individual puppy. Our puppies are all loved and raised the way we would want our own babies to be. We have over 13 years of experience raising puppies, and know what they need to be as healthy and happy as possible! It has been so rewarding to have spent the past decade researching and implementing the most effective and positive practices, while fine-tuning our breeding program so that we have the best possible temperaments and genetics in our lines. We are so proud of our level-minded, focused, adoring, gentle, healthy companions! It has been an honor and absolute joy to see what a positive impact our puppies have had on their families and as therapy and service dogs! We've had many families tell us that their Golden Ridge puppy has been the best dog that they've ever had, and we've been so lucky to see how our therapy dogs have been life-changing for so many families! We have many references and are happy to share them with you! By placing this deposit, Buyer acknowledges that reservation fee is non-refundable. All puppies come with a health guarantee and are given a full physical by our veterinarian before going to their new homes. Photo Gallery. Reviewed by Monica Tarantino Dr. Monica Tarantino, DVM, is a small animal veterinarian and writer with five years of general practice, emergency medicine, and geriatric pet health experience. She is certified as a Fear Free doctor. They are the ultimate combination of good looks, smart wits, and playfulness. Thanks to their poodle heritage, they shed little and are hypoallergenic. Goldendoodles make an ideal family dog due to their extreme friendliness and social personality. They vary in fur types, colors, and size, so there's no doubt that you'll be able to find one that suits you. Read on to learn more about these high-spirited dogs that'll brighten your day! Their adorable name was coined in .While not officially a registered breed of their own, Goldendoodles are considered a "designer breed" because each of their parents is a purebred, but different breeds from each other. Poodles don't shed and are very athletic and intelligent, while Golden Retrievers are lovable and playful family dogs. The mix makes the Goldendoodle a great choice for a lifelong pal, especially for those with mild pet allergies , though no dog is completely hypoallergenic. It should be noted, again, however, that Goldendoodles are a mixed breed, and it's difficult to tell which traits they will eventually inherit. After all, every dog is a unique individual, regardless of breed. Continue to 2 of 11 below. Get a Goldendoodle! It is important to realize, however, that all dogs have dander dead skin cells , saliva, and urine, where allergens exist, so there is no guarantee a Goldendoodle won't set off an allergic reaction. Regular baths and grooming sessions can help reduce the chances of your pooch setting off your allergies. Continue to 3 of 11 below. With a heritage of two retrieving breeds, Goldendoodles love to play fetch, accompany you on a jog, race around the dog park with the other pooches, or tussle with the kids. These dogs are great companions for active families. There are several different sizes of Goldendoodles, depending on whether their poodle half was toy, miniature, or standard, and their weight and size can vary from 15 pounds up to 60 pounds depending on their parents. Most love going on long walks, runs, and hikes with their owners, but of course you'll need to pace yourself if your Goldendoodle is on the small side. If you like bringing your pup along on outdoor adventures, consider the Goldendoodle for your next dog. Continue to 4 of 11 below. This breed loves to socialize and be near their owners; marry that with a penchant for playfulness, and you will have a buddy to enjoy plenty of time together in the park. They love to play with children as well, and a good romp in the backyard is a great way to burn off some energy from both your kids and your pet. And because this is an intelligent breed of dog, you can easily teach your Goldendoodle not just basic commands, such as sit, stay, and come, but also tricks like roll over, shake, and dance. Continue to 5 of 11 below. They also typically enjoy spending time interacting with other pooches at doggy daycamps or the local dog park. But it doesn't have to be all hustle and bustle with your pet. Although this doesn't make them the best watchdogs, their calm demeanor is part of what makes this adorable canine so friendly. Continue to 6 of 11 below. In general, however, they have thick coats that are medium-to-long. Many people choose to have their Goldendoodle trimmed every few weeks, similar to poodles. This is especially helpful if your dog has longer, curlier hair that's prone to tangles. If you prefer to keep your Goldendoodle natural, it's important to brush the coat regularly to remove tangles and debris. Continue to 7 of 11 below. That's not surprising when you consider that both poodles and golden retrievers were originally bred to serve as retrievers for hunters shooting ducks. Your Goldendoodle will be thrilled to join the whole family for summer fun at the beach, lake, or swimming pool, but be sure to provide your pooch with a doggy life vest in open waters, and teach him how to enter and exit a swimming pool by using the steps. But you'll want to stand clear when your Goldendoodle decides to shake off all that water! Continue to 8 of 11 below. They can be orange, cream, dark brown, gray, or black in color, although most are golden. Some Goldendoodles are somewhat darker along their upper body, with lighter hair along their chest and belly. Some are even multiple colors. Aging Goldendoodles can sometimes seem to "fade" a little in color. Continue to 9 of 11 below. While the first of these dogs were bred from golden retrievers and standard poodles, producing fairly large offspring, there was soon demand for smaller versions of this popular canine. Today, there are three basic sizes of Goldendoodle, each depending on whether the poodle parent was a toy, mini, or standard poodle. The mini Goldendoodle is around 15 to 16 inches in height and weighs less than 30 pounds. The medium Goldendoodle, which is the most common size, ranges in height from 16 to 20 inches and can weigh between 30 and 40 pounds. The standard Goldendoodle is the biggest size, with an average height of 22 inches and weight of 50 to 60 pounds. So whatever size dog you prefer, there's a Goldendoodle to fit. Continue to 10 of 11 below. For anyone needing a little cheering up, their happy demeanor will bring an instant smile to anyone's face. Goldendoodles also do well as medical alert dogs, which are service dogs specially trained to alert their owner or even call for help when the dog senses that their person is about to experience a seizure or that a diabetic is suffering from low blood sugar. Standard Goldendoodles can also work as mobility service dogs, which help people with mobility issues stand, walk, or balance better. Continue to 11 of 11 below. Groodles is one, while Doodles is another. This breed of dog is also sometimes referred to as the Goldenpoo. But whatever you call them, the Goldendoodle is an adorable, affectionate, intelligent, and lively breed of dog. These codes refer to the genetic makeup of your dog. How do you trim a Goldendoodle's face? For around the eyes, start with blunt-tipped scissors, gently trimming away the hair above them. Cut at an angle, like a downward V. Since the cut line will be blunt, a pair of thinning shears will help it look shaggier. Next, tackle the beard by brushing your dog's fur downward and creating an oval shape with the blunt-tipped scissors. Again, fluff up anything too blunt with the thinning shears. Then, brush the top upwards and trim away anything too long. Finally, brush her ears and trim away scraggly fur, finishing with the thinning shears. How long does a Goldendoodle live? Like their poodle parents, Goldendoodles are fairly long-lived dogs, with an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. What Does Goldendoodle F1b Mean? When a Goldendoodle is backcrossed, it is usually to the purebred Poodle and not the Golden Retriever. They call this backcrossing. These dogs end up having more characteristics of one purebred parent, the Poodle. When you breed a Goldendoodle with a Retriever, they end up having more characteristics of the Golden Retriever and less of the Poodle through the Goldendoodle. This breeding combination is possible, but it is less common and requires more work on the breeders part. It is also less popular since more people seek out other Goldendoodles with more Poodle traits. How to Breed for an F1 Goldendoodle and Golden Retriever Mix Using a reputable breeder who handles this type of back cross is necessary to gain the healthiest dog possible. Breeding a Goldendoodle with a Retriever is not commonplace, and many people wonder why it is even done, so finding qualified breeders may be limited. Most Goldendoodles are backcrossed with the purebred Poodle to gain more Poodle characteristics like hypoallergenic and low shedding. In reverse, the necessity is unclear. Still, some potential pet parents seek out these cross-bred dogs and others because they like a particular breed of dog and are interested in a cross between them and the adorable cute and teddy bear-like Goldendoodle. Breeding this way, requires that breeders know what to look for in each dog parent. Breeding a Golden Doodle and a Golden Retriever can result in a beautiful hybrid dog that possesses the best qualities of both breeds. Also known as the Golden Retriever and Golden Doodle mix, this hybrid dog is gaining popularity among pet owners due to its friendly nature, intelligence, and adorable appearance. The Poodle breed is often added to the mix to enhance the non-shedding and hypoallergenic qualities that are commonly found in Goldendoodles. When breeding a Golden Retriever with a Golden Doodle, the resulting offspring can inherit a wide variety of traits from each parent. The puppies may vary in size, coat texture, and color, depending on the traits that they inherit from each parent. Overall, breeding a Golden Retriever with a Golden Doodle can result in a fantastic hybrid dog that is perfect for families looking for a friendly, intelligent, and affectionate pet. The Goldendoodle is a hybrid dog with Poodle and Golden Retriever parents. Beyond this first generation, there are numerous other generations and possibilities by breeding Goldendoodles together or back to the Poodle line. It is also possible that you can breed a Goldendoodle with a Retriever. Goldendoodles were created as a designer dog breed that became popular due to their teddy bear appearance and low shedding and hypoallergenic coat of hair. If a Goldendoodle is bred with a Retriever, they will gain more of the Golden Retriever and less of the Poodle, which could mean more shedding of non-hypoallergenic hair. It is possible to breed a Goldendoodle with a Retriever but not a common occurrence because the popularity is not there. Many people chose a Goldendoodle because they want a dog that looks and acts more like a Retriever. Another reason breeding a Goldendoodle with a Retriever is less common because more is required of the breeder, and they are harder to locate. Finding a reputable breeder that is skilled and knowledgeable is very important whatever type of back cross is desired with a Goldendoodle. What traits will a litter of puppies have when you breed a Goldendoodle with a Retriever? There will still be some Poodle in the mix with this breeding, but it will be less than in the original Goldendoodle. The physical, emotional, and mental characteristics will lean more towards the Golden Retriever since more Golden Retriever in these puppies. They may be bigger physically, have a shaggier coat of hair, and may not be hypoallergenic or low shedding. Facial features can be more streamlined and appear to be more like the Golden Retriever line, with, of course, the possibility for variances from one dog to another in the same litter. Emotionally Golden Retrievers can be very mellow and easy-going, which can benefit this type of breeding, but Poodles are also relatively easy going as well. Regardless breeding a Goldendoodle with a Retriever can make an exciting mix that potential pet parents might find as an exciting change of pace and variance for this cross-bred dog. These dogs will still have a gentle, loving, and friendly personality with intelligence and trainability like most of the other Goldendoodles of other generations. If you can breed a Goldendoodle with a Retriever, will they become popular? If you breed a Goldendoodle with a Retriever, they could become popular as the original Goldendoodles, but the chance for this happening is lowered. The Goldendoodle cross-bred dog was created as a designer dog to cater to people that wanted a dog with specific characteristics. High intelligence, a teddy bear coat of hair, and a gentle, loving personality as just a few parts of this equation. One of the reasons people love the original Goldendoodles so much is because they are also low shedding and often hypoallergenic. By breeding a Goldendoodle with a Retriever, the hypoallergenic and low shedding coat could be lost , reducing the appeal for those pet parents looking for those traits in a dog. This is because there is so little Poodle left in the mix. While they could still become popular with those pet parents that love and adore Golden Retrievers, it is still unlikely that they would become as popular as the Goldendoodles that boast more of their Poodle parents traits. What is the price for a puppy when you breed a Goldendoodle with a Retriever? The price for a puppy from this litter would be comparable to other Goldendoodle pricing. Each breeder is unique in pricing depending on location, gender, age, size, and how high the current demand is at the time. Since these Goldendoodles are less popular than the original Goldendoodle generation and the varieties that lean towards more Poodle, there may be a slight price difference because what you get from one dog to another can be unpredictable. Breeders who cross-bred these two dogs are harder to find, which could also cause the price to be higher. Breeding these dogs requires medical workups to limit the risk of genetic health issues being passed to the next generation. The amount of research, skill, knowledge, energy, time, and care increases causes the expense of a potential pet parent. What makes a good breeder that would breed a Goldendoodle with a Retriever? What makes a good breeder breed a Goldendoodle with a Retriever, or any dog for that matter, is knowledge, skill, planning, and research. While every dog has redeeming qualities that make them outstanding in one way or another, a good breeder will be able to separate their love of dogs from facts about an individual dog. A good breeder always seeks to improve on what is already existing. They spend greats of time becoming experts on the breeds or cross-breeds they handle. They learn about genetics, health, appearance, and temperament. When breeding any dogs, a good quality breeder will improve with the new litter. They will know or learn the flaws of one dog parent and pair it with another dog parent to reduce or eliminate those negative qualities or flaws. This is for the health and future of this cross bred dog. When breeding a Goldendoodle with a Retriever, these skills are essential because the Goldendoodle is a cross-bred dog. Being a cross-bred dog means there is no breed standard to compare. Pure bred dogs have a set breed standard that proves quality breeding practice and integrity of the ancestoral line, cross bred dogs have not set standard. This is true when selecting a Goldendoodle, whether it is mostly Retriever, mostly Poodle, or a fifty-fifty mix. Golden Retriever and Poodle mixes can be susceptible to a variety of diseases and health issues. Some of the most common health concerns in Goldendoodles are related to their joints and eyes. Patellar luxation, which occurs when the kneecap moves out of place, is another condition that is seen in both breeds. Allergies are another common issue that Goldendoodles may experience, particularly skin allergies. Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joints and can cause pain and lameness. Early socialization is crucial for Goldendoodles to prevent separation anxiety, which can cause destructive behavior and distress when left alone. Epilepsy is another condition that Goldendoodles may inherit from their parent breeds. Despite these health concerns, Goldendoodles may benefit from hybrid vigor, which is the increased health and vitality that can result from breeding two different breeds together. Purebred dogs can also pass conditions from both females and males from either breed onto the offspring. Therefore, the resulting goldendoodle puppies may actually be less healthy than their parents. Get your family pet from a great breeder to avoid these problems. A superb golden retriever poodle mix can be found being bred to be guide dogs. These dogs may not make the cut to be guide or therapy dogs, but they can still be healthy, happy pets. While you can breed a Goldendoodle with a Retriever, the reasoning is unclear with this designer dog breed. At the end of the day, as long as a dog is healthy and the pet parents are happy, one must wonder if they are bred matters anyway! Goldendoodles are a cross-bred dog with a Poodle and a Golden Retriever as parents, and they are popular due to their teddy bear appearance and low shedding and hypoallergenic coat of hair. The popularity of breeding a Goldendoodle with a Retriever is not there, and many people choose a Goldendoodle because they want a dog that looks and acts more like a Retriever. Goldendoodles with sparkle, from Colorado Australian Goldendoodles What are they? A Goldendoodle is the dog born of a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. They are also known as "North American Retrievers". Why are they? These breeds have been growing in popularity since the mid's. They have what is known as "hybrid vigor". When two healthy dogs of different breeds are bred together the resulting puppies tend to be healthier more vigorous than either parent. This is because even with good breeding practices, purebred dogs are more likely to carry the same recessive genes which can lead to genetic disorders such as hip dysplasia. Also, in Goldendoodles, the combination of the calm, sweet golden retriever and the non-shedding, intelligent poodle creates what some have called the perfect dog. Combining a well bred Goldendoodle with a well bred Labradoodle also produces a wonderful, healthy dog. History First there were the Australian Labradoodles which were developed in Australia in the late 's as a service dog especially for people with allergies who couldn't have a Labrador due to their shedding. Golden Retriever lovers began developing the Goldendoodle in the mid's, producing a soft and shaggy coated dog that has won people's hearts the world over. These dogs have joined the Labradoodle as being intelligent, competent, low to non-shedding working service dogs, and field dogs as well as family companions. At Aspen Hill Doodles, we began breeding Goldendoodles in .We are one of the first reputable breeders of Goldendoodles in Colorado. We have developed several strong lines over the years. Grandparents and Great-grandparents etc. What do they look like? Goldendoodles, Double Doodles and Australian Goldendoodles typically have a shaggy-dog look and can vary in color, size and coat quality. We call the look of this type of goldendoodle the "goldendoodle" type. In some generations, the pups look more like their Golden Retriever relatives see our F1 Goldendoodle Retriever section , we call the look of this type of goldendoodle the "retriever" type. When a Golden Retriever is crossed with a Poodle, it is called an F1 cross first generation hybrid , or an F1 Goldendoodle. The coat will vary between looking like a wavy coated retriever to a relaxed-curl poodle. This cross has a typical "shaggy-dog" look. Most first generation Goldendoodles either don't shed or shed lightly. Some people with mild allergies are OK with F1 Goldendoodles. Here are two of Penny's F1 Goldendoodle pups, showing examples of size, color and coat. On the left is "Gucci", she's a 35 pound, apricot colored, wavy coated Medium. Her coat is unclipped. On the right is "Bogie", he's a 60 pound, cream colored, wavy coated Standard. His coat has been clipped. The B is for Backcross because the Goldendoodle has been bred back to one of it's parent breeds. It's considered first generation F1B because one parent is one of the parent breeds. F1B Goldendoodles will have a generally curlier coat than F1 Goldendoodles and are usually non-shedding. They are recommended for families with mild allergies to dogs. People who have moderate to severe allergies to dogs, would probably be safest getting a pure poodle. Rocket is an example of a white colored, wavy coated medium F1B Goldendoodle. Bindi and Cloudy are his parents. He weighs about 30 pounds. Finley is an example of a cream colored, curly coated mini F1B Goldendoodle. Bindi and Ximo are her parents. She weighs about 20 pounds F1 Goldendoodle Retrievers Technically a Goldendoodle crossed back to a Golden Retriever is also a Backcross Goldendoodle hybrid dog bred back to one of the parent breeds , but in the Goldendoodle world the name of F1B is reserved for Goldendoodles bred back to Poodles only not bred back to Golden Retrievers. We call the pups F1 Goldendoodle Retrievers. They are considered first generation F1 because one parent is one of the parent breeds. When we select the F1B parent for an F1 Goldendoodle Retriever litter, we select a dog with many of the coat characteristics a poodle. We select a dog whose body build and temperament are similar to a Golden Retriever. Our F1 Goldendoodle Retrievers come in two types. The first type look very similar to Golden Retrievers, but they enjoy the hybrid vigor of Goldendoodles. The second type look very similar to wavy coated F1 Goldendoodles. We have found that the F1 Goldendoodle Retrievers that resemble Golden Retrievers Retriever types are just as likely to be low to non-shedding as their F1 Goldendoodle Retriever Goldendoodle type littermates. They are medium F1 Goldendoodle Retrievers. April and Botza are their parents. They all weigh between 30 and 45 pounds. Stella and Lucy are the Retriever type of Goldendoodle Retriever. Moose is a Goldendoodle type of Goldendoodle Retriever. This cross goes back to the parent breed of Poodle, so we are able to use the "B" for backcross. The puppies from this cross will be very similar to a "regular" F1B Goldendoodle, although they may not be quite as curly and they may shed slightly more. Occasionally a litter of this generation will have both Goldendoodle type and Retriever type puppies see F1 Goldendoodle Retrievers. F2 Goldendoodles Some breeders breed two F1 Goldendoodles together. This combination is called an F2 cross and produces the most variation in coat, from a coat that looks almost completely like a Golden Retriever's, to a coat that looks almost completely like a Poodle's. Multigenerational Goldendoodles The general rule for naming generations of Goldendoodles is that a pup will be considered 1 generation higher than its parent with the lowest generation. For example an F1 crossed with an F2 would be an F2 1 generation higher than the F1 parent. If two Goldendoodles are bred together and one parent is an F1B, or a Multigen, the puppies are considered Multigenerational, or Multigens. Usually Multigenerational Goldendoodles are low to non-shedding and can have wavy or curly coats, depending on the parents. Some people with mild allergies are OK with Multigenerational Goldendoodles. An F1 litter is the first generation cross between these two breeds. Each breeding will depend on the parents we have chosen. Generally we're aiming to breed litters with excellent genetic diversity and look for complimentary characteristics in both parents to produce beautiful, healthy pups with sound temperaments which will become outstanding companion dogs. The litters we have produced have been fantastic! Casey Bear left and Kiedis right are littermates. They both weigh just under 30 pounds. As with the F1 Australian Goldendoodles, the size and color of each breeding will depend on the parent dogs. We continue to breed with good health and temperament being our primary goals. We consider them F1 because they're being bred back to a Golden Retriever. Because they have Australian Labradoodle in them, they will also have genetic material contributed from the Australian Labradoodle parent breeds listed at the top of this page. This generation has very similar characteristics as the F1 Goldendoodle Retriever generation see above. Their coats will be low to non-shedding. Their size and color will depend on the parent dogs. They will have the cheerful, obedient temperament of our other generations of goldendoodles. They will have the cheerful, trainable temperament of our other generations of goldendoodles. Goldendoodle Colors The color will depend largely on the poodle genes, and can be almost any color including white and black and in between. Some may have other markings such as being "abstract" which is a solid colored dog with one or more small white markings, "parti-colored" spotted , or "phantom-colored" which have markings like a Doberman. At Aspen Hill Doodles we specialize in white, cream, light gold, gold, apricot, and red pups. Our pups are solid colored or abstract. Our abstract pups' white markings, are usually on the center of the chest, sometimes on the paws and sometimes on the center of the face or head. If the white area is very small, it often almost disappears as the pup grows up. To the left is a Magnum, he's a good example of one of our apricot abstract pups. He has a small white spot in the middle of his chest. He's an apricot abstract Medium F1 Goldendoodle. He is one of Luna and Tino's pups. Coat The coat of a Goldendoodle, Double Doodle, and Australian Goldendoodle is usually soft and curly and if left unclipped, it will usually grow from 4 to 7inches long shorter on the face. How curly the coat is often depends on the type of cross of each particular Goldendoodle. Personality Goldendoodles, Double Doodles, and Australian Goldendoodles are happy, intelligent dogs that are friendly and loyal to their family. They get along well with children and other pets. They are happiest when they are with people. They love to learn and are easy to train. Maintenance Goldendoodles, Double Doodles, and Australian Goldendoodles require a moderate amount of exercise and grooming. Is the Goldendoodle-Golden Retriever mix a good service dog? This is where a Goldendoodle is bred back to a Poodle rather than a Golden Retriever. Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are consistently one of the most popular dogs in the U. The history and true origins of the Golden Retriever date back to as early as the s. However, the story of the Golden Retriever began even earlier than this, according to the Golden Retriever Club of America [1] grca. Based on information found on the American Kennel Club website, the Golden Retriever was originally a product of the wealthy Dudley Coutts Marjoribanks, son of a wealthy banking investor who inherited a generous amount of money [2] ukcdogs. Because of his love for dogs and bird-hunting, he would go on to acquire several properties with a substantial amount of land. One, in particular, was a retreat in the Scottish Highlands named Giusachan, which he kept reserved for training hunting dogs to assist in his fowl-hunting ventures. During his youth, he had developed an affinity for dog breeding, a hobby reserved then for the well-to-do. As the story goes, the young aristocrat was strolling home one evening and encountered a wavy-coated sporting dog owned by a local merchant who needed to settle a debt — and the rest is history. The dog would come to be named Nous and would eventually be bred with a liver-colored Tweed Water Spaniel, a now-extinct breed. Nous was rumored to be of Russian origin — a story that held for some time until the GRCA conducted further research. The result was the longer, wavy, golden hair of Nous, the dog with a mysterious Russian background, with the intelligence and tact of the Tweed Water Spaniel. Ultimately, it was discovered that Nous was bred from a variation of a Red Setter. Golden Retriever puppies are too cute to handle. This, combined with the liver-colored coat of the Spaniel, and the golden color of Nous, gives the Golden Retriever chances of having anything from brilliant gold to even a darker copper color. He was tall and lanky but had that characteristic square head. People always thought he was a red setter, but he came from a breeder and had a documented ancestry. An unusual example of the breed for sure, especially since he lived to 16 certainly not due to his diet because I was always sharing my food with him lol. Such wonderful dogs, especially with kids. Overall, the Golden Retriever is one of the most loving dogs in existence and makes a great companion or family dog. Goldendoodle Goldendoodles come in different sizes such as toy, mini, medium, and standard. The Goldendoodle is a playful breed that displays a perfect mix of the personality traits of its parents, the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. These dogs became popular in the early 90s but have existed since as early as the 60s. Most Goldendoodles have an excellent disposition — a combination of the intelligence of the Poodle and the Golden Retriever form an extremely smart dog with an affinity for quick learning. They have the loving side of the Golden Retriever, with an equal number of people-pleasing traits from the Poodle, giving them a knack for showing off. They love being around their people and will work hard alongside you, especially with lots of positive reinforcement. Poodle The Poodle is perhaps one of the most misrepresented breeds in existence. Many people assume a Poodle to be spoiled, even somewhat snobby, and, if nothing else, extremely high maintenance. Poodles originated in Germany, not France. However, Poodles are an incredibly versatile breed with a long history of being excellent service animals. The standard Poodle was initially bred to hunt waterfowl — which makes a great combination with the excellent retrieving skills of the genetics from the other side of the gene pool. They have very little aggression towards other dogs and owners, which makes learning in a dog school or having them train with other members of your canine family very stress-free. Be prepared for laughter — the Poodle can also be an extremely goofy breed. If there were a breed you could compare to a comedian or actor — it would certainly be the Poodle [3] youtube. Mini Poodles were bred down from the Standard Poodle. The Poodle has its roots as a swimmer, as noted by their webbed paws, and generally loves the water. I recommend having multiple, as they are very social animals. You can get larger or smaller, depending on the breeder, as well as different colors, including multicolor parti. Best advice I got was to make sure you go to a reputable breeder. Poodles were insanely popular in the mid-twentieth century, and were overbred. So, you need to make sure all the proper precautions were taken to minimize health issues. Amazing, amazing dogs. Appearance The appearance of the Golden Retriever and Goldendoodle mix is less versatile than the Goldendoodle itself or other Doodle breeds, but it still has various physical traits. Coat Type The coat of the Goldendoodle and Retriever mix varies depending on the genetics and coat type of the parents. However, their coats are generally medium in length with extremely light curls. When they get wet, their curls are more prevalent. Some of them end up with more of a wavy coat instead of a curl — but both are possible. Coat Colors The Goldendoodle Retriever generally has anywhere from a darker copper to an extremely light blonde, almost white color. Their parents ultimately dictate their shade — listed below are the potential colors of the parents: Red. Silver Goldendoodles can be any of these colors, too! Goldendoodles do not have any markings or color combinations in them unless they were bred with a cross breed Poodle parent that had similar markings or color combinations. For example, if a chocolate Poodle was bred with an auburn Golden Retriever, then the resulting Goldendoodle could be brown, red, or any version of gingery goodness in between! Golden Retrievers vs. Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers were bred to have a dense undercoat that kept them warm in the cold Scottish Highlands. Goldendoodle Goldendoodles can share the long, straight coat of their Golden Retriever parents, or they can have a wavy coat which is a combination of the Golden Retriever and the Poodle coat, or they could even have a tightly curled coat like their Poodle parent. It all comes down to what genes get turned on from which parent in the womb! Their coat requires brushing every second day, as it will tangle, mat, and become compacted easily. At first, this can seem like a lot of maintenance. However, they do not shed nearly as much as Golden Retrievers do, so the daily clean up of dog hair on the couches is cut down considerably! Goldendoodles: Overall Temperament The overall temperament of a dog breed is important to understand because some dogs are better suited to specific lifestyles. Still, all dogs are unique and they all have their own individual personalities. Their temperaments are not set in stone from birth, and training and socialization are important in shaping who they are. However, certain breeds are predisposed towards certain behaviors because these behaviors have been bred into them for centuries! Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are absolute goofballs. They are dopey, friendly, fairly laid-back dogs that love to laze about, cuddle with their owners, go on adventures, and will go out of their way to please you in any way that they can. They are highly intelligent and sensitive dogs, which is what makes them excellent service animals. Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers are very dependent on their owners and tend to suffer from separation anxiety if they are left alone for extended periods of time throughout the day. If your job is a 9 to 5 everyday with frequent late nights and no one is home to check in on your Golden Retriever, then you may be setting yourself up for disaster. Golden Retrievers do very well with children and other animals and have almost endless patience for being loved on by small humans and needy canine friends. Goldendoodle Goldendoodles can be just as fun-loving, excitable, crazy about children, and cuddly as the Golden Retriever. They also sometimes do not do well with crowds of people, as they can suffer from social anxiety, which can translate into perceived aggression even though they are acting out of fear and not anger. Goldendoodles Which is the healthier dog? Goldendoodles or Golden Retrievers? Golden Retrievers and Goldendoodles share almost all of the same health concerns. Neither dog is more or less healthy than the other in terms of what they are and are not predisposed to. However, hybrid or crossbreed dogs are generally more resistant to genetic issues, as they have more genetic diversity in their makeup. With a healthy diet, prophylactic supplements, regular vet check-ups, and a solid exercise regime, many of these issues can be avoided entirely. Are Goldendoodles or Golden Retrievers easier to train? Golden Retrievers and Poodles are both incredibly intelligent dogs, which means their Goldendoodle offspring are equally as intelligent! Early socialization and training is important for both the Golden Retriever and Goldendoodle. Do Golden Retrievers or Goldendoodles live longer? Golden Retrievers typically live for 15 to 18 years, and Poodles typically live for 10 to 14 years. Goldendoodles can land anywhere in the mix. However, they are more likely to have an average lifespan similar to the Poodle and live for 10 to 12 years, as they are larger dogs, and larger dogs do not live as long as smaller breeds do. Are Golden Retrievers or Goldendoodles more active? Golden Retrievers are incredibly active , and so are Goldendoodles! Both dogs need at least 45 minutes of exercise a day in the form of play time, walks, or active training. They are both highly intelligent and will become destructive if they are stuck sitting at home with pent-up energy. Rolling Over On Golden Retrievers vs. Goldendoodles… Golden Retrievers and Goldendoodles are very similar dogs. They share many of the same personality traits, are almost the same size, and will cost you similar amounts both at point of purchase and throughout their lives. Although they share many characteristics, there are some key differences between the two dogs: Breed origin.

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. So, how many times a day should you feed your German Shepherd? German Shepherds should be fed at least twice a day. Vets recommend two smaller meals instead of one large meal for healthy digestion and energy. For puppies, feed 4 meals a day up to three months old, then 3 meals a day up to six months old, before finally reducing to 2 meals a day. It is essential to stick to food schedules that are consistent for the long-term health of your German Shepherd, especially as the breed is prone to the life-threatening condition, Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus GDV , commonly known as bloat. This article will cover how often to feed a German Shepherd whether puppy or adult and how much to give your dog to keep him healthy and happy. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. My German Shepherd Willow eating her meal Hey! As a working breed raised to herd and protect sheep, they are typically energetic, enjoy physical activity, and love having a job to do. Due to their dynamic character, they demand a high-energy diet. However, as large, deep-chested dogs, they are one of the breeds prone to bloat GDV , and vets advise against feeding one large meal a day. Twice per day is the standard, with a good few hours in between, as it allows your GSD to eat and digest his food properly. German Shepherds, like most dogs, work well when fed on a schedule. I absolutely agree with this, especially as the German Shepherd is susceptible to a sensitive stomach and is known to have more digestive problems than other breeds. However, if you have any concerns, you should speak to your vet. If you have a high-energy or working German Shepherd, such as a guard dog, assistance dog, or Police or Military dog that gets a lot of exercise, you may consider feeding little and often to prevent hunger. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Schedule German Shepherd puppies will require more frequent feedings as they expend far more energy and have smaller stomachs to hold their food. You should feed a German Shepherd puppy four meals a day between 6 and 12 weeks old. Puppies aged between 12 and 24 weeks should have three meals a day, and from 24 weeks onwards, German Shepherd puppies should be fed twice per day. Age of Puppy. Time Zones puppy feeding schedule and recomendation Prior to weaning our German shepherd puppies, they would have obtain most of their nutritional needs from their mother's milk. By the time our puppies are ready to move into their new home, they will be fully weaned on to solid foods. The puppy is then entirely dependent on his new owner, to provide a fully balanced diet that will meet all of his nutritional requirements. All puppies thrive on the same basic nutrients as adult dogs, but due to their rapid growth rate, these nutrients are needed in proportionately larger quantities. Similar to human babies, puppies have small stomachs, so they need to be fed little portions but often. German shepherd puppies grow very rapidly in the early stages of their development. A German shepherd dog will reach about half their adult weight by five or six months of age. However, there is a wide variation in adult body weight between different breeds, and dogs mature at different rates, since this article is focus on the German shepherd puppy, we will focus at that. German shepherd puppies, in particular, which are most affected by the feeding regimen - as they are growing rapidly, these puppies are prone to disturbances in their skeletal development. It is unwise to overfeed such dogs at this stage in an attempt to obtain the maximum possible rate of growth. A puppy needs between two and four times as much energy as an adult of the same size - growing is an energetic business! They must have more protein than adults - this must contain all the right building blocks of the protein amino acids for growth, and they need just the right amount of minerals for healthy bones and teeth. Puppies therefore have to eat large amounts of food in relation to their body weight, but their stomachs have only a small capacity. To compensate for this, a puppy needs to be fed several small meals a day. It also helps if his diet is designed to meet a number of useful criteria: the food should be concentrated to ensure an adequate intake of nutrients before his stomach is full; The food should be easily digested to maximize its nutritive value; the diet must be balanced to provide the right amount of nutrients to meet the puppy's particular needs; and it should also be tasty so that he will eat it. Devising an acceptable nutritionally balanced diet for growth is thus a very complex exercise. Fortunately, feeding your puppy need not be as complicated as it sounds. Diets, which are specially formulated for growth, take all the guesswork out of rearing a healthy puppy and provide a balanced and concentrated diet, which he will enjoy and thrive. For a normal, healthy German shepherd puppy there is no need to use supplements. In some ways this could be harmful. If you do decide to use a supplement please consult your veterinarian. The feeding schedule of your puppy will depend greatly on his age and individual characteristics, until they are about four months old. Feeding can then be reduced to two times a day until six months of age. You can offer your puppy his daily food allowance in two separate meals. You can feed an adult diet from 14 months of age Since all puppies are individuals, some may need more and some less than the indicated amounts. Your puppy's condition is the best guide of whether you are feeding the correct amount. By recording his weight on a regular basis you will be able to check his growing at a healthy rate, appropriate to his breed. You can then make adjustments to avoid him becoming under - or overweight. Generally, a puppy should be allowed 10 to 15 minutes to eat at each mealtime. After then discard any uneaten food. Your puppy should have his own feeding and water bowls and should be kept clean, separate from the family's dishes. Provide fresh water daily If you notice that your puppy is excessively thirsty and often, you should consult your veterinarian. Note: When puppies come from a kennel environment "outside living", to a family house, most often they will show signs of panting and thirst. This is normal because they will be hot with-in. In few days they should adjust in being indoors. The "puppy" feeding schedule is a guideline for our German shepherd puppies. A puppy should be kept lean during 4 to 8 months of age rapid growth phase , BUT they should not appear thin. You should be able to feel the rib cage and the back bone, but not see them. Looking down on the dog, there should be a slight indentation between the end of the rib cage and the hip bones. If you have questions or comments that you would like to share, please EMAIL US Please do not use our website to attempt to diagnose or treat your pet. The consultation with your veterinarian is the best source of health advice for your individual pet. You should not rely, on the veterinary advice or any other information provided on this site for the diagnosis or treatment of any specific condition. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the medical condition or general treatment of your pet. 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. 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. 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 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.

Yorkshire Terrier When considering the Breed Standards and Average Sizes for collar selection, it is important to note that these measurements are approximate and may vary slightly across individual dogs. The average neck sizes listed above can serve as a general guideline for choosing an appropriate collar size for your lab puppy. It is crucial to measure your lab puppy's neck size accurately before making a collar purchase. Using a soft measuring tape, wrap it around the base of your puppy's neck, ensuring a snug but comfortable fit. Keep in mind that puppies grow quickly, so it is advisable to choose a collar with room for growth. It is recommended to select a collar that is adjustable to accommodate your lab puppy's changing size. This way, you can easily modify the fit as they grow. Always ensure that the collar is comfortable for your puppy to wear, with enough space for two fingers to fit between the collar and their neck. By considering the Breed Standards and Average Sizes, measuring your lab puppy's neck accurately, and choosing an adjustable collar with room for growth, you can provide your puppy with a comfortable and properly fitting collar. Remember to monitor your lab puppy's collar as they continue to grow and adjust or replace it accordingly. Suggestions: When selecting a collar size for your lab puppy, it is a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for additional guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on your puppy's breed, age, and growth rate. Remember to always prioritize your lab puppy's comfort and pet safety when choosing a collar. Measuring the Neck Size of the Lab Puppy Measuring the neck size of a lab puppy is a crucial step in selecting the appropriate collar size. Here is a step-by-step manual on accurately measuring the neck size: Ensure that the lab puppy is calm and comfortable before measuring their neck size. Utilize a soft measuring tape or a piece of string to measure around the puppy's neck at the base, where the collar will be positioned. Wrap the measuring tape or string snugly around the neck, ensuring it is not too tight or too loose. Take note of the measurement in inches or centimeters, maintaining consistency with the chosen unit of measurement. If you utilized a piece of string, measure its length with a ruler or measuring tape to determine the neck size. Double-check the measurement to ensure its accuracy. Remember that the collar should fit snugly but not be excessively tight or loose. It is important to allow two fingers to comfortably fit between the collar and the puppy's neck. By accurately measuring the neck size, you can select the appropriate collar size for your lab puppy, ensuring both comfort and a proper fit. Guidelines for Choosing the Right Size Collar for a Lab Puppy When it comes to finding the perfect collar for your adorable lab puppy, it's important to keep a few key guidelines in mind. In this section, we'll explore useful tips and tricks to ensure you choose the right size collar that will suit your furry friend's needs. From adjustable collars to selecting a collar with room for growth and ensuring optimal comfort and fit, we've got you covered. Get ready to make your lab puppy the most stylish and comfortable pup in town! Adjustable Collars Adjustable collars are a convenient option when choosing a collar for your lab puppy. They offer flexibility and allow for easy adjustments as your puppy grows. Perfect fit: Adjustable collars provide a perfect fit for your lab puppy's neck comfortably. This ensures that the collar is not too tight, causing discomfort or restricting movement, and not too loose, risking the puppy slipping out of it. Room for growth: Lab puppies grow rapidly, and adjustable collars provide the flexibility to accommodate their changing neck size. As your puppy grows, you can adjust the size of the adjustable collar accordingly, providing a snug fit without the need for frequent collar replacements. Economical option: Investing in adjustable collars eliminates the need to purchase multiple collars as your lab puppy grows. This helps save money in the long run and ensures that you always have a well-fitting collar for your pup. Durable and long-lasting: Adjustable collars are typically made of high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. They are designed to withstand the active lifestyle of lab puppies, making them a reliable choice for everyday use. Easy to clean: Lab puppies are known for their playful and messy nature. Adjustable collars are easy to clean, allowing you to maintain hygiene and keep your puppy looking smart and presentable at all times. When choosing a collar for your lab puppy, consider the convenience and versatility that adjustable collars offer. They provide a customized and comfortable fit, accommodate your puppy's growth, and are a cost-effective choice in the long run. Choosing a Collar with Room for Growth When selecting a collar for your lab puppy, it is crucial to choose one that allows room for growth. To make sure you get the right size, follow these steps: Start by measuring your lab puppy's neck size using a flexible tape measure or a piece of string and a ruler. Wrap the measuring tape or string around the base of the neck, where the collar will sit. Remember to leave a finger's width of space for comfort. Once you have the measurement of the neck size, add an extra inches to allow for growth. This ensures that the collar will fit comfortably as your lab puppy grows. Look for adjustable collars with multiple holes or a sliding mechanism that can easily be adjusted as your lab puppy develops. Consider collars made from lightweight and durable materials like nylon or leather. These materials can withstand the wear and tear that comes with a growing lab puppy. Ensure that the collar is neither too tight nor too loose when fastened. It should fit snugly around your lab puppy's neck, allowing freedom of movement without causing any discomfort. Pro-tip: Keep checking and adjusting the collar as your lab puppy grows to ensure a proper fit and prevent any potential discomfort or accidents. Ensuring Comfort and Proper Fit Ensuring comfort and proper fit is crucial when choosing a collar for a lab puppy. Here are some guidelines to follow: Choose a collar made of soft and lightweight material. It should be comfortable for the puppy to wear without causing any irritation or chafing. Ensure that the collar is adjustable. This will allow you to find the perfect fit for your lab puppy as it grows. Select a collar with a buckle or snap closure that is easy to fasten and secure. Avoid collars with complicated or hard-to-use closures. Check that the collar is not too tight or too loose. It should fit snugly around the puppy's neck without restricting their movement or causing discomfort. Regularly check the collar to make sure it remains properly fitted as the puppy grows. Adjust the collar accordingly to ensure a comfortable fit at all times. Recommended Collar Sizes for Lab Puppies at Different Ages When it comes to choosing the right collar size for your lab puppy, it's important to consider their age and growth. Collar Sizes for Lab Puppies up to 3 Months Collar sizes for lab puppies up to 3 months are determined by their age and weight. Lab puppies up to 3 months of age are typically smaller and lighter compared to older puppies. It is essential to choose a collar that fits a lab puppy neither too tightly nor too loosely. An adjustable collar is recommended to accommodate the puppy's growth. Ensure that the collar is comfortable and does not cause any discomfort or irritation to the puppy's neck. Before selecting a collar, accurately measure the puppy's neck size. Collars with room for growth are ideal for lab puppies up to 3 months as they experience rapid growth during this stage. To determine the appropriate collar size, consult the breed standards and average sizes for lab puppies. Consider the lab puppy's weight and neck size when selecting the collar size. Collar Sizes for Lab Puppies from 3 to 6 Months When choosing collar sizes for Labrador puppies aged 3 to 6 months, it is important to consider their growth and comfort. Here is a table outlining the recommended collar sizes based on the weight of the lab puppies: Weight Range. Collar, Harness, Or Both? Lab puppies start tiny but grow up extremely fast. Every pup grows up at its own tempo. If it has started to get too constricting at that point — either loosen it up if possible or get a new collar. If you get a collar with a lot of resizing leeway, it can last you a few months. This is very easy to judge if you just stick a couple of fingers under the collar. The risk of keeping an overly loose collar on your dog should be clear — the dog will be able to back out of the collar. Many others, however, including a lot of labs, love to back out of their collars whenever possible. Adult Labrador Neck Size So, what size collar will your lab puppy end up wearing when it grows up? If your puppy is smaller than average it may grow into a smaller-than-average adult lab or it may just be a slow grower. Different Types Of Dog Collars For Labs The main non-cosmetic differences between dog collars are in the materials and the fastening mechanism. Plus, they always allow for multiple different size settings. As for materials, these are the basics: Metal — a lot of people love metal, especially for mid-sized to large breeds like Labradors. Leather — this is the classic choice for dog collars. Its main drawback is that it can get stinky over time. This is especially true if your dog loves to swim and Labrador retrievers are a water dog breed. Fabric collars can come in a lot of different designs and compositions. Some of the more colorful ones are especially fun for puppies. Synthetic polyurethane-type materials — these intuitively put off some people but are an excellent choice. Training collars used to be very popular at one point for both puppies and adult dogs. These collars take many different forms — they can be pronged, pinching, and electro-shock collars. Their idea is simple — teach your dog not to pull on its leash with the negative reinforcements of the collar. Dog harnesses today are viewed as a better and safer alternative to training collars. These are used mostly for training and for adult dogs, however. You should start using those as soon as your pup is big enough. CHECK OUT 9 Things that are 4 meters long As your dog grows and begins to reach its adult weight, you can still use the weight method to figure out a rough collar size. When should a puppy first wear a collar? Some puppies may have already been wearing soft breakaway collars for training or to distinguish them from their littermates. This can make training, particularly leash training, much easier in the future. Collar Types There are several collar options available, and picking the right type is often as important as choosing the correct size. Leather collars are durable and stylish. Nylon collars are also comfortable for the dog and are available in a number of colors and patterns. Plastic collars are also available for dogs that tend to swim a lot or are frequently dirty. Harnesses are an excellent training tool for puppies that are just learning to walk on a leash. They can curb bad leash habits, such as pulling. Harnesses can be switched out for a collar as the dog grows, or you can upgrade to an adult harness size. Sharing is caring! It is all rather bewildering, but there is no need to worry! This is where you can find the answers to those questions, and get some ideas and inspiration too. Collars are a great way to identify similar Lab puppies in a litter Labrador Dog Collars and the Law In many parts of the world, dogs must legally wear a collar when out in public. This is usually a disk attached to the collar, with your phone number and name on it. Collars can display IDs in a number of different ways. Some collars come with a brass or stainless steel plate attached to the surface, others have a metal ring for you to attach a tag onto. Others will embroider the ID into fabric or tool it into leather. Are Personalized Dog Collars Safe? But others feel that this is a dangerous thing to do. But most dogs are always supervised when outdoors, and many dogs are also microchipped so proof of ownership is more easily accomplished. Unless your dog is very friendly and spends time outdoors on his own, having his name on his collar is unlikely to put him at risk. Collars as a Fashion Statement A collar is the traditional way of attaching a restraint to a dog, for the purposes of keeping him safe. Before harnesses were invented this was an essential feature of life in a modern world, where cars and other hazards are everywhere. But in many homes and families, a collar has become something of a fashion statement too. A whole industry has arisen to meet the demand for different fabrics and styles. Training Collars for Labs Many people look on a collar, as an aid to training their dog how to walk on a leash. A way to get their dog to tread along nicely next to them, without dragging or pulling them along. They want to choose a collar that will best help them in this goal. Prong collars and pinch collars have been designed that are uncomfortable and even painful when a dog leans into them. The problem of course, is that pulling is often very rewarding for a dog he gets nearer to the destination he likes. So collars usually have to be quite painful if they are to successfully stop the pulling. Collars that can be used to pinch and choke dogs, are becoming less popular, as more and more dog owners want to train without using unpleasant aversives. And fortunately there are now excellent ways of teaching a dog to walk nicely without using collars at all. And in the meantime you might find it helpful to have a strong pulling dog fitted with a body harness that will give you more control without damaging his neck. Before you set off on a Labrador collar shopping expedition, you will need to think about sizes. And to know your Labrador neck size. Labrador Collar Size Not all collars are made in sizes large enough for an adult Lab. And one adult Lab will not have the same neck size as another. So you do need to whip out your tape measure in order to avoid disappointment Both my Labs have an 18 inch neck. They are medium build slim Labradors. But it really is best to measure. If you find it difficult to keep your dog still, just get someone to dip their fingers in some butter and let the dog lick it off while you take his measurements! Collars for adult Labs are usually about an inch wide — this allows enough space for a small ID plaque if desired. What Size Collar for a Lab Puppy? If you buy a puppy collar two or three inches longer than this it will last him a few weeks. Puppy collars are usually narrower than adult collars, half an inch is fine. And they come in some very cute designs. We have put together a collection of our favorite puppy collars to inspire you! So what kind of collar should you buy? Which Labrador Collar Style? We recommend that you buy your Labrador a flat collar with a buckle fastener. You can choose one to suit your taste and wallet. Especially if your Lab likes to swim. You can buy waterproof collars made from synthetic polyurethane type materials. Waterproof collars tend to resist odor and are easy to clean. They often come in striking bright colors — we love them and think they look cool! But not so loose that he can back out of it. You should be able to fit two or three fingers under it quite easily, but not much more. A collar that is too loose can be slipped by a lively dog very easily. It is also worth considering alternative forms of restraint. Especially for puppies and lively young dogs that can get very sore necks if leashed to a collar. Buying a Harness The breadth of choice in body harnesses for dogs has burgeoned in the last couple of years as people discover how great they are. A body harness is an excellent way to restrain a young dog that has not been taught to walk to heel. It has several advantages over a collar. It is almost impossible for the dog to slip out of. And most importantly, a puppy that wears a harness is not learning to lean into or pull, on his collar. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. When it comes to puppies, particularly short-haired breeds, you should look for a soft collar made of a non-abrasive material. Fabric collars are a good option, and collars made from a breathable fabric that is also machine washable are even better. When should a puppy wear a collar? Even if your puppy is still too young to go outside for walks, getting them used to wearing a collar is a good idea and will prevent any tiny tantrums further down the road! Collars should be worn most of the time, even around the house, but taking it off every so often to let the skin breathe is recommended. Try leaving the collar off for a couple of hours every time you brush or bathe them. Can an 8-week-old puppy wear a collar? Responsible breeders recommend puppies should not be brought home until 8 weeks old, and you can start getting them used to their collar shortly after this. It may be a good idea to let them settle into their new environment before introducing something new, but getting them used to their collar in their second week at home is a good idea. Should puppies wear collars at night? Most dog collars are designed to be non-abrasive, and perfectly safe for pups and older dogs to sleep in. This can also help puppies get adjusted to wearing a collar for the majority of the time. However, many vets also recommend including a contact telephone number, in the event your dog goes missing. Although microchipping has been mandatory for pet dogs since , tags are still a legal requirement and provide a quicker way to get in contact with you if your dog is found, without their microchip needing to be scanned first. We hope our puppy collar size guide has been helpful, as well as our dog collar FAQs! If you enjoyed our puppy collar size guide, you might like our other article, What do I need for a New Puppy? Ridgeback, German Shepard, Bulldog The perfect fit for your furry friend! When buying a new collar for your dog it's necessary to decide and to find the correct collar size to ensure an optimal fit and comfort for your sweetheart. Use a flexible tape measure, wrap the tape measure around the widest part of your dog's neck. Allow enough free space between the collar and your dog by placing two fingers under the tape measure and lay your fingers flat against your dog's neck. Write down the measurements and decide the right size for the dog collar based on our sizing chart above. For example The measurement of your dog's neck, including two fingers, comes to 32 cm. Then the collar you choose should have a diameter between 29 - 36 cm, meaning that the first hole of the collar will give you a measurement of 29 cm, and the last hole 35 cm in diameter. This collar will allow enough space for adjustments to make a perfect fit for your dog. All our collars are measured without the buckle. This provides you the exact measurement of the collar when worn. Caring for proper ergonomics We're often asked why our collars are that wide and if they only are for sighthounds. The wideness of our dog collars is good for many different breeds not only sighthounds. The width of the collars gives good support and protection on your dog's neck and windpipe and a wider surface area spreads out the force and helps to prevent injuries. Also wider collar gives a more comfortable feeling and less strangulation then a thin collar which in turn means the dog is less stressed and is less likely to pull. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or recommendations regarding sizes, measurements etc. Just send a message to contact collarofsweden. High Paw! It can be challenging to understand where to begin! Labrador Puppy Collars are available in a wide range of colours and sizes. Your puppy will have a comfortable, stylish collar with your name on it. Find the perfect size and colour dog collar for your new Labrador, with more durable, comfortable, and fashionable. Our labrador puppy collar size is one step guide for you. Measure The Neck Size Of Your Lab Puppy It varies from puppy to puppy in terms of neck size, in the manner of how people vary in terms of their physical characteristics like size and shape. You can use this guide to figure out what collar fits your pup. You should always measure the neck of your lab pup rather than guessing its size to ensure a perfect fit. Simply start measuring from his head down a couple of inches and then add an extra inch. It will be easier to pick the right collar size for your labrador puppy if you know what to look for. Numerous aesthetically pleasing, durable, and cost-effective collars are available to choose from. A variety of materials, such as leather, nylon, and cotton, are available. You can also get a breakaway collar that lights up at night to make sure your puppy or dog is safe. It is also possible to find no-pull collars which are extremely effective in preventing a hyper-active puppy from yanking out of control while also teaching them how to walk properly. With a few of the top collars for lab puppies available on the market today, we have taken the time to cut through the clutter and provide you with a selection of well-made, durable, and highly-rated collars. As there are two different types of collars you can use on your canine companion. The collar you choose depends on your personal preference and budget. And if your lab loves swimming, then use cotton collars. These cotton waterproof collars contain polyurethane-like synthetic materials. In addition to being odor-resistant, waterproof collars are easily washable. Our favorite thing about them is that they are usually bright in color, which is something we love about them. Leather Collar — This is a luxurious and traditional collar for dogs that offers the perfect balance of functionality and style. In spite of their higher cost, a leather collar is likely to last for many years to come. Keep in mind that you should only buy a collar made of genuine leather. The leather bonded together consists of scrap leather, which glued together using an adhesive. Although the leather of this type might resemble the feel and appearance of genuine leather, it provides less durability and is dreadful in quality. Dogs, especially those with thick coats that tend to matt around collars, generally preferred to wear collars made of rolled leather. You can choose from a wide range of color choices, designs, and sizes. Lab puppies can wear these on walks as well as at home. The nylon collar is a standard collar that can be worn for many purposes. Neoprene Collar — Neoprene is an extremely flexible rubber material used to make wetsuits, bolstered with nylon mesh to provide extra durability, flexibility, and strength. If your dog spends a lot of time in the water, a neoprene collar is a perfect choice. Biothane Collar — Dogs who enjoy swimming will love biothane collars too. Contains non-toxic materials composed of polyester weave and powder coatings composed of polyurethane or polyvinyl. Neoprene and leather collars are expensive, while biothane collars are more comfortable, easier to wear, and more affordable. A collar needs to be checked every two to three weeks. Look for indentations and signs of wear and tear. The collar should replaced immediately when you notice any defect that may upset the dog or endanger his safety. If it does, your dog will suffer from pain and discomfort. When your puppy is indoors, it is best to remove its collar. It attracts bacteria when it is damp. Additionally, a dog collar not being clipped onto furniture or choking hazards in a crate will be avoided. As a general rule, puppies should be taught to wear a collar and leash around 10 weeks of age. As a result, you will be able to get started in a week or so after they have settled in. FAQs Question 1: Do lab puppies always need to wear collars? Although there are some puppies who seem perfectly happy to wear a neck collar, it is important to consider that wearing one for prolonged periods of time could harm their coat and their skin due to the friction created by the collar. Question 2: Which collar size is best for my puppy? For dogs under 10 pounds, a collar up to 12 inches long is adequate. The collar length should be from 13 to 18 inches for dogs between 26 and 55 pounds. Question 3: Are dogs better off with wide collars? There are many benefits to using wide collars for your dog, including strolling, training , and even playing with. Wider dog collars provide your pup with a better fit around the neck while walking or training. For dogs that like to play rough, a wide collar can provide a better level of safety from other dogs or potential neck injuries. Question 4: Does my labrador puppy need a smaller collar? While many people will just go ahead and get the next size up, that could be a mistake. Make sure you choose a collar that will fit your puppy as he grows into adulthood. Post navigation.

Apricot Poodles March 14, Apricot Poodles are one of the most popular Poodle colors. Apricot appears in all three sizes of Poodles: Standard, Miniature and Toy. The beautiful shade as well as the rarity of this color makes apricot Poodles highly sought-after. Today we will look at this type of Poodle as its characteristics. Even AKC Poodle breeders sometimes categorize their dogs under the wrong color. Apricot is a dilution of brown. Ideally it should appear to be a bright, sunny color. Apricot is difficult to breed for as it is a recessive gene and it quickly fades in UV light. If your Poodle spends a lot of time outside, his apricot color will soon look like a lighter cream color. The nose and eye rims of an apricot Poodle should ideally be black or dark brown. A medium-colored brown is accepted as per the breed standard, but not encouraged. History of apricot-colored Poodles Poodles have been around for a long time. Some paintings show Poodles in the 15th and 16th century. Back then, most Poodles would have been white or parti-colored. The new color quickly became popular and was bred mainly in the UK. It would take a while before the color became prevalent in the other Poodle varieties though: Only in , the first apricot Miniature Poodle was born. In the s, Poodles became more and more popular in North America and have been a beloved companion dog ever since. Due to the rarity of the apricot color and its recessive nature, not a lot of Poodles are available in this color! Are apricot Poodles rare? Yes — apricot Poodles are very rare! As a recessive color, apricot is only shown in a puppy if both parents carry a copy of the gene. Most Poodles are black or white with the occasional Parti Poodle who has two colors. Other Poodle colors such as red, cream, blue or brown are allowed by the breed standard but less common. The apricot Poodle is very rare among the Poodle colors, which makes these dogs very sought-after and potentially pricey. Some puppy buyers have to be on a waitlist for an apricot puppy for months or years. You should only decide for these dogs if you are willing to be patient and wait for your perfect apricot puppy for a long time. As all Poodles, apricot Poodles have a tendency to develop gastrointestinal issues. You should only feed your dog high-quality food and make sure that you take him to the vet if he shows any signs of diarrhea or vomiting. Like all Poodles, apricot Poodles are highly intelligent and will require daily exercise and training. A bored and under-exercised Poodle will quickly develop a range of unwanted behaviors, such as reactivity, incessant barking or chewing of furniture. Grooming your apricot Poodle Every color Poodle will require regular, consistent grooming efforts in order to keep the coat beautiful and the skin healthy. Letting your Poodle develop mats will lead to hot spots and can even cause severe skin infections. You need to brush your Poodle every day. He should also be bathed with a Poodle-specific shampoo about once a month. Many Poodle owners choose to have this done by a professional groomer. Depending on whether you want to show your Poodle or not, you can keep his coat either in a full show groom or a more convenient haircut. The teddy bear cut is very popular especially for Miniature Poodles. Training Poodles are generally easy to train as they are highly intelligent and love to work together with their owner. They excel at a variety of dog sports, such as agility, competition obedience, disc dog or dock diving. Especially for those dogs, participating in a weekly dog sport will be very beneficial. If you choose to show your dog in AKC conformation events, you will need to train them to show well in the show ring. This includes walking and trotting on the leash and standing still while the judge examines your dog. The most common behavioral problems in apricot Poodles are anxiety, nervousness and excessive barking. Extensive socialization is necessary to turn them into well-mannered and calm companions. This includes positive exposure to people, dogs, different places and a variety of sounds. Poodles can show prey drive. Do not underestimate that and make sure to teach your dog impulse control and recall skills. This is especially important if your Poodle is sharing your home with smaller animals, such as cats. How much do apricot Poodles cost? As a rare color, you can expect to pay more for an apricot Poodle of either size. The Bottom Line Apricot Poodles are very popular due to their unusual coloring and their rarity. Many owners are drawn to this special kind of Poodle because they are so unique. It is important to not let rarity alone be a deciding factor when it comes to picking your future puppy though! You should never buy any dog Poodle or not for his color alone. Apricot Poodles will require the same care, grooming, training and exercise as any other kind of Poodle. Due to the at times nervous nature of this breed, it is really important that they are well-socialized and get a lot of positive exposure, especially during their puppyhood. Apricot Poodles excel at a variety of dog sports and will love to participate in those with their owner! Due to the limited supply of apricot Poodles, expect to be put on a waitlist for a potential puppy. The price will likely be higher than that for a more common Poodle color as well. Being patient pays off though: These dogs are amazing companions that will brighten up every day! Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day. Coarse coat texture Chronic skin and ear infections Hypothyroidism is treated with lifelong oral medication, and dogs with this condition often live normally with proper treatment. Patellar Luxation A luxating patella is when a kneecap slips out of place. Patellar luxation is a common condition in small dogs, including Miniature Poodles. If you see your Miniature Poodle holding a leg up, limping, or having problems walking, they may be experiencing patellar luxation. Veterinarians can treat this condition by moving the patellar ligament to the correct location through surgery. In minor cases, this condition can be managed with anti-inflammatory and pain medications, but it will result in arthritis. Veterinarians may also suggest weight loss or joint supplements. Eye Problems Miniature Poodles can develop a few different eye conditions as they age. This condition is not curable and will lead to blindness. Cataracts are a hereditary condition that affects Miniature Poodles. Cloudy eyes are a telltale sign of cataracts, and you might notice your dog bumping into things and having issues navigating their environment, especially at night. But unlike PRA, cataracts can be corrected with surgery before your dog loses sight. Their food must be appropriate for their current life stage puppy, adult, or senior. Your veterinarian can recommend specific brands and help you make sure your Mini Poodle is getting the nutrients they need. How To Feed a Miniature Poodle Miniature Poodle puppies need to eat three or four times every day, adhering to a consistent schedule. Once they reach their first birthday, you can reduce their meals to twice a day. The best way to know how much to feed your dog is to talk to your veterinarian. You can also turn to your dog food packaging for guidance, as it will give you an amount to feed your pup based on their ideal weight. But because Miniature Poodles can have problems with their hips and knees, your veterinarian might prescribe supplements to improve joint health. Like all dogs, Miniature Poodles need obedience training and socialization, but they are fast learners and eager to please their people. Because of this, Miniature Poodles can do well in many types of homes. Miniature Poodle Personality and Temperament Miniature Poodles usually get along well with other pets. They need lots of exercise and playtime to burn off energy and keep their sharp brain engaged. Miniature Poodles can become anxious in new situations, however, so early socialization and training is important for having a confident pup. Miniature Poodle Behavior Miniature Poodles like to keep their little legs moving. Miniature Poodles also love swimming. Make time for play, and stimulate their mind with interactive toys and puzzle games. Once they have the basics down, you can teach your Miniature Poodle more complex tricks. Fun Activities for Miniature Poodles. Become a free Member Apricot Poodles Apricots are one of the most beautiful Poodle colors and one of the most sought after. Their coats are a sunny, gleaming hue, producing quite a gorgeous color. This variation is not considered a fault under the AKC breed standards. Jasmine A light apricot, next to a deeper, darker red Photo courtesy of Floyd Ferdinand Gelacio Apricots most often have black points which mean the noses, eye-rims and lips, black-or self-colored toenails and very dark eyes. They may, nevertheless, have dark amber eyes, liver nose leather, eye-rims and lips. This, too, is permissible, but not the ideal coloration. This is true for reds as well. The apricot gene is a recessive to all the poodle colors except white. It is not uncommon for an apricot to be dubbed a red or vice-versa. Additionally sometimes a cream will be called an apricot if it is deep. As a Poodle matures, color may lighten or deepen a bit and for this reason, a pup that appeared to be a light apricot may darken into a more solid medium cream or other similar toning that shows the wrong color was chosen at the time the pup was registered. Since a breeder can register a Poodle to be any color, not all owners of apricot Poodles will have that color designation on their dog's papers. Alternatively, there are owners of red or cream Poodles that have papers showing that the dog is apricot. These types of things do happen with breeds that come in such a wide range of not only colors, but variations and tones of those colors. Apricot is one of the last poodle color to be recorded. Some say that is it indeed the very last one; others say that red sprang from apricot, making it simply one of the last. It is suspected that apricot is a very rare occurring combination of brown , blue and perhaps white in different concentrations, which then produce the different shades that we see with apricot Poodles. All other colors of the Poodle were established before the apricot came into play. The very first apricot, Sowden Yellow Gall, born in was actually dubbed a liver by its owner who had browns, therefore it is estimated that the color was perhaps a bit different than the one we know of today. This same owner produced a litter of 8, 6 were reds and 2 were brown… The sire was liver and the dam a brown. This amazing litter was sold to an English kennel which then worked to continue the apricots and reds, thus allowing us to have apricot Poodles today. At the time, they were working only with Standards. In the year , Miniatures were starting to pick up in popularity with pet owners, so in turn breeders responded to that. It was during this time that a unique and beautiful Poodle puppy was born in the Whippendell Kennel, she has a gorgeous apricot coat and to the surprise of many, her brother was a solid black. In , there was the first apricot champion, Phigidity Jessie who happened to have a black sire and a blue dam. Higidity Jessie was a Standard. Descendants of the English apricots, carrying the genes are the dogs that are responsible for all of the apricot Poodles that we have today. The first American champion was Champion Carillon Amour, in .In the 's poodle breeding slowed down quite a bit due to WWII, however in the 's two important apricot kennels worked in England to produce excellent apricot Poodles.In regard to the toy size class, they were the Greatcoat lines and in regard to the Miniature size variety, they were the Puckshill lines. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Your browser does not support the audio tag. 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. Note: Docking tails is illegal in most European countries. 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 Miniature Poodle is an intelligent, joyful companion dog. It can be trained to a high degree and is very willing and happy to please its handler. Comical and clever, it is often used as a circus dog. The more intelligent a dog is, the more it needs its mind occupied. This breed cannot live outside in a kennel. It needs to be part of the family. It can be high-strung if not given the proper type and amount of exercise. Do not allow this dog to develop Small Dog Syndrome , where the dog is led to believe it is alpha over humans. It can cause the dog to become sensitive and nervous , and not very trustworthy with children and possibly strangers, along with many other behavior issues. Socialize your dog well. This is a very good watchdog for its size, seldom becoming aggressive. Dogs may start to bark a lot without proper human to canine communication , rules to follow and limits to what they are allowed to do. Poodles are friendly with other dogs and non-canine pets. Height, Weight Height: 11 - 15 inches 28 - 38 cm Weight: 15 - 17 pounds 7 - 8 kg The sizes of the official AKC-recognized Poodle breeds are determined by height, not by weight. The Miniature Poodle must be over 10 inches and 15 inches or less at the highest point of the shoulder. Any Poodle which is over 15 inches or is less than 10 inches at the highest point of the shoulder cannot compete in the AKC show ring as a Miniature Poodle. Brown Poodles tend to become prematurely gray. Living Conditions The Miniature Poodle is good for apartment life. It will be calm indoors if it receives enough exercise. It will do okay without a yard. Exercise Miniature Poodles need a daily walk. While out on the walk make sure the dog heels beside or behind the person holding the lead, never in front, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. 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. They adore water and love sessions of play. They are a very versatile breed with a hunting and retrieving beginning, although they excel in any performance event you offer them, including agility, obedience, rally and conformation showing, and often one will leave one ring and go directly to another to compete again. Since they love water they are great dock diving dogs and love water retrieving. Life Expectancy. By Chris Poodles have been considered a fashionable dog ever since their popularity skyrocketed in France in the 17th century. Colors officially recognized now include black, white, blue, cream, gray, silver, red, apricot, silver beige, and all shades of brown, including caf-au-lait. Apricot vs Red Poodles — Are they different? Red vs. Apricot Poodles Red and Apricot Poodles are two of the rarest and most sought-after colors of Poodles. Because both red and apricot coloring can vary in hue, the two colors can be difficult to discern at times. Red and Apricot are the two newest Poodle colors. Because Poodles come in so many different colors, many of which are known to fade over time, it can be hard to know what to expect after you find a puppy. A Red Poodle and an Apricot Poodle resting while tongues are out. The apricot color is caused by a recessive gene, making Apricot Poodles very rare. Most Poodles were black, white, or particolored until this point. The apricot color quickly grew in popularity and was bred mainly in the UK. An Apricot Poodles — what a pretty coat color! Because it is so rare, the darker Red Poodles are very desirable. However, red coats are prone to fading, and most Red Poodles will end up with a coat that resembles the apricot color by the time they are about three years old. Because of this history, the first Red Standard Poodles tended to be smaller than other colors of Poodles. However, the largest resulting Red Poodles were bred, and Red Poodles are now very similar in size to Poodles of different colors. Some say that it must be the same gene because the Red Poodle originated from Apricot Poodles. Despite their genes being different, the appearances of Red Poodles and Apricot Poodles can end up being very similar. Apricot and Red Poodles sitting together on a white background. An Amazing Dog Regardless of Color Regardless of whether a Poodle is red, apricot, or any other color, the coloring of your Poodle will not be a factor in its personality or temperament. Poodles are highly intelligent, easily trainable, and very social. Any color Poodle from a reputable breeder that receives appropriate training and care can be an incredible companion. If you have your heart set on a Red Poodle, a chance remains that your Poodle could maintain dark red coloring into adulthood. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More.

Conclusion What Is Crate Training? So, what even is crate training? As the name suggests, it is the process of training your pup to sleep overnight in his crate. Crate training has loads of benefits for pet parents. Traveling A crate-trained pooch is an absolute must for frequent flyers. Your dog must be crated on trains, planes, and buses, which really helps if he is crated in the car. This keeps your pup and other passengers safe. Protect Your Pup When I was renovating my kitchen, my dog was completely intrigued by the noises of the construction. Every time the jackhammer would start up, he would run toward the kitchen to investigate. So, I had to speed up my crate training process to safely crate my pooch in my room for a couple of hours a day. Crating your pup also keeps him safe from household supplies that can seriously harm him, including rat bait, mouse bait, fabric softener sheets, antifreeze, or insecticides. Protect Your Home Sometimes, even the most well-behaved pup tends to behave a little naughty. This could manifest in destructive behaviors like ripping up cushions, peeing in random corners of the house, and getting into the trash. To prevent this, teaching your dog to enter his crate all by himself is good. Potty Training Since dogs are den animals, they are naturally predisposed to keeping their toilet area separate from their sleeping area. This will foster the habit of peeing on the pad, which is invaluable for further potty training. A common question that pet parents of Goldendoodles have: Are Doodle puppies easy to crate train? Or can a Goldendoodle be crate trained? The answer is yes! Thanks to their Poodle genes , Goldendoodle puppies are extremely intelligent. Thanks to their Golden Retriever genes, they are also very eager to please. This winning combination makes most types of training a breeze! With consistency, hard work, and dedication, you will definitely be able to crate-train your Goldendoodle pooch. Crate Training Steps So, how exactly do you start crate training? Or how do you train a Goldendoodle to sleep in a crate? Start by selecting the best crate for your Doodle puppy. The crate should have enough ventilation holes if you live in a warm, humid climate. This will keep your pup more comfortable with entering the crate. Keep the crate near you in an area with a lot of foot traffic. Let your dog investigate the crate of his own volition. Do not close the door yet, even if your pup enters. Use Cues Now that your dog is used to entering the crate, you need to start associating the action of entering the kennel with a verbal command. Reinforce the Commands At this point, the most important thing is to reinforce the verbal commands you have laid the foundation for. When he does, give him tons of treats and verbal praise. Close the Door At this point, you are ready to start closing the kennel door. Once your Goldendoodle is able to enter the kennel once you say the command, you will begin to close the door after him. After a few weeks of training, you will find that crate training your Goldendoodle puppy at night is a breeze! Crate Training Schedule So, how do you schedule your crate training process? Week 1 Acclimation This first week should be all about getting your dog comfortable with the presence of the crate. A large crate can look intimidating to a teeny tiny pup. This will entice your pooch to stick his head in, and he will become more comfortable with entering the crate. If you throw in a few toys or treats, your dog is more likely to enter. Week 3 Closed-Door Training Now, each time your dog enters, shut the door behind him. Keep it closed for only a few minutes, let him out, and then reward him heavily with treats! You can also test out the verbal cues you established in the previous week. Weeks Continuing Training As your Goldendoodle starts to get comfortable with being in the crate with the door closed, you can increase the length of time he is in there. Slowly increase it by 30 seconds at a time, repeated multiple times throughout the day. Eventually, you will be able to leave him in there for hours at a time! You can even try to leave your Goldendoodle in the crate overnight, but let him out if he whines for more than 15 minutes. Do not leave your pooch in the crate for more than 6 hours. Week 6 Overnight Crating Now, you can try leaving your pup in the crate overnight. Take your dog out for a potty break, give him tons of exercise, and keep a potty pad in the crate. Lead him to the crate and gently close the door behind him. Take him out for a bathroom break at least 30 minutes before you begin training. In a few weeks, your dog will be totally comfortable with dozing off in his kennel overnight! Goldendoodles are an exceptionally smart breed that responds great to consistent training and positive reinforcement. If you have any other tips to make crate training a little easier, then leave a comment below. Thanks for reading! As she grew older, this love transformed into a love for dogs. She volunteers in a dog shelter, so she is well-versed in the care and comfort of all breeds of dogs. Leave a Comment. Use the same door every time you take your puppy out. Hang the bells see below on the door and ring them, with their foot. Once they go potty, Praise them and tell them how fabulous they are for going potty outside. The key to house training your puppy is you have to be consistent and have patience. This is all new to your puppy. They don't know what you expect from them until you teach them. Never use anything but positive reinforcement with your Goldendoodle! They will understand quickly with just the tone of your voice. Watch your puppy constantly! If you can't watch the puppy, crate it. Crating the puppy for naps and periodically during the day will teach your puppy to hold for longer period of times and get your puppy used to being calm it's crate faster. Always potty your puppy before and after crating. The rule of thumb for how long your puppy can hold it in the crate during the day is it's age in months. At 8 weeks old - 2 months, your puppy can hold it 2 hours in the crate. The Moss Creek Head Start Teaching the puppy to sleep in the crate and not soil it, is an intensive and exhaustive task. We do more than just introduce your puppy to a crate. We actually train your puppy to sleep in its own crate through the night. The early days of this process are the most difficult. We have implemented a system that slowly teaches your puppy to enjoy being in the crate without soiling it. This makes for many sleepless nights on our part. We feel this early head start to crate training makes the transition to your home less stressful for the puppy and you! Our puppy owners are worth this extra effort. We begin crate training at 3 weeks. We start by leaving a crate in with the puppies with no door. They love to pile in and sleep together. As they grow, we introduce a second crate and this time we leave the doors on. We start by closing them in for minutes at a time, before gradually working up to hours at night. We take the water away by 6 pm. The last time out is around 11 pm. You should take the puppy out, say "go potty" or any cue but be consistent, afterwards, it's directly back in the crate. Let them know that middle of the night trips are all business. No playtime, no drinking etc. Which Crate to Buy We recommend a 42" or 48" wire crate as the permanent crate for standards and the 36" for Mini's. Make sure the crate has a divider. You will want to section off a small space in the beginning, just large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around and lay down in. You can put a blanket around the crate to make it feel more like a den. Puppies, by nature, prefer to be clean and will not lay where they have had an accident. This makes the crate an invaluable training tool, as it is safer for your puppy to be crated than unsupervised. Purchase our recommended crates on our Crate Shopping Page. Trained to the Bell Poochie-Bells work! Hang them on the door you let your puppy out. Every time you take the puppy out, say 'Let's go out - Ring your bells - Go Outside' and ring the bell with one of the puppies paws. Once you get to the grass you say 'Go Potty'. We don't say 'Potty' in the house because Goldendoodles are extremely smart and learn to potty on command. For the first few months puppies should be taken out for a potty break: when they wake up. Dog crate training step 5: Slowly extend the time the door is closed Ok, now we will work on duration! Repeat step 3 but slowly increasing the time the door is closed. The first few minutes will be the most challenging, you must go as slowly as necessary to prevent whining. How you do this? The slower your work, the faster your puppy learns I promise! Here is an example for 3 sessions of 12 repetitions then break for play or petting time. Session 1: 3 seconds, 5 seconds, 1 second, 7 secs, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 6 seconds, 4 seconds, 7 seconds, 3 seconds, 8 seconds, 8 seconds. Session 2: 5 seconds, 8 seconds, 3 seconds, 7 seconds, 10 seconds, 12 seconds, 6 seconds, 15 seconds, 12 seconds, 17 seconds, 10 seconds, 20 seconds. Session 3: 10 seconds, 15 seconds, 8 seconds, 18 seconds, 12 seconds, 20 seconds, 11 seconds, 20 seconds, 25 seconds, 8 seconds, 27 seconds, 30 seconds. NOTE: this is just an example, if your puppy is struggling then repeat shorter sessions more often. Looks like a lot of work? Trust me.The first few minutes are the most challenging, once you are up to 5 minutes, you will be able to make minute jumps, instead of second jumps. Expert tips for step 5 Once you have reached minutes, you can start giving your puppy a stuffed Kong or chew toy so he can keep enjoying the time inside the crate. As soon as you open the door and ask him to go out, take the Kong and toys away. This is very important for your dog to understand that those special toys are only available when he is confined inside the crate. So, I recommend you stay near the crate, maybe on a chair or table where your puppy can see you do something else. You can even do it while cooking, as long as your puppy can see you and you are fairly close by. Dog crate training step 6: Staying in the crate with you out of sight You may have noticed that we are teaching every aspect of going inside the crate separately. That's the best way to teach a dog anything. If you try to lump together closing the door, duration and you being away, your puppy will most likely fail and start whining. To complete the training, we need to teach the puppy to stay inside the crate and be OK even if you go out of sight. Start leaving the room in very short periods and extending them progressively. There is no need to use extra food rewards during this step. The idea is that while your puppy is on the crate for 30 minutes, you will leave the room and come back many times until your puppy gets used to you doing this. I will give you here examples of 3 different sessions done during a 30 min practice. Example: At min 2, min 5, min , min 6, min , min 10, min, min 12, min , min , etc. You must repeta session 1 which is just you leaving for 1 seconds many times until you notice your puppy doesn't care anymore. The first few times you get up and leave the room your puppy may become alert or even bark or whine, you go back in, sit down and continue doing what you were doing if you are doing nothing, pretend to do something like reading a book or working on your computer. After many repetitions you may notice that your puppy may looks at you, but he is no longer alert or slightly anxious.For some puppies, maybe they will be OK doing Session 1 only one time. Other puppies may need to repeat it more times throughout a few days to feel comfortable. Just read your puppy and act accordingly. Session 2: Leave the room for seconds at random intervals during the 30 min practice. Example: At min 2 leave for 2 seconds, at min 3 leave for 4 seconds, at min leave for 1 second, etc. Again, you cannot move to session 3 unless you notice your puppy is no longer alert waiting for you to come back in. The idea is to create this random pattern of you coming in and out so many times that the puppy will get bored you doing this! Next sessions: Increase the time you leave progressively. For example: Session 3 leave for seconds, session 4 leave for seconds, etc. Work this way until you are able to leave for 30 min to 1 hour or even more. Again, after you have achieved 5 minutes out of sight, you will be able to do minute jumps instead of seconds and your puppy will learn faster and faster. Now create a puppy crate training schedule! Now you have a dog that can go in and out of the crate on command and best of all…loves to be inside it! For older or shy dogs, it might take a little longer. Hope my website is helping you better understand and train your dog. Do you want to help? Be a modern philanthropist through Patreon. We feel better when we know what is coming next. A puppy crate training schedule is a great thing because it gives you a specific pattern of actions to follow every day. Done correctly you can have a potty trained dog in just about a week but it can take longer too! The following chart will help you remember how long can puppies hold their bladders depending on their age. You can't expect a three months old puppy to stay inside his crate for 4 hours without any accidents! Also, keep in mind that pups will potty after eating, after a play session and after a nap. Keep this is mind when working on your puppy crate training schedule. It is possible that your puppy potties more or less often and that is OK, just follow your own puppies schedule by paying attention at how often he pees. You will notice that a puppy crate training schedule has certain key parameters. Play time for minutes, feeding time for 30 minutes and crate time for hours. Follow the schedule as is, but use your human instincts too. If you think your puppy needs to play longer, do it. If you think your pooch wants to go potty, take him outside immediately. Remember, you puppy is unique. Free puppy crate training schedule download! This file also has a fillable schedule to complete with your own specific hours too! Sign up to The Yes Dog! Our newsletter name "The YES dog" was created to promote positive dog training methods say -yes- instead of punishment and the acronym also tells you what you will get into your inbox: Yeehaw with your dog find joy with fun activities Explore dog science learn about your best friend Sayings that inspire a quote to help you bond with your dog Enter Your E-mail Address Enter Your First Name optional I am at least 16 years of age. I have read and accept the privacy policy. I understand that you will use my information to send me The Yes Dog newsletter. Subscribe Remember to be patient. If your dog is not successful, then try to make things easier for him. If you follow the steps outlined above and the puppy crate training schedule, your dog will be just fine and potty trained in a few weeks but it's OK if your puppy takes longer! As your pup grows, you can start adjusting the time he spends inside the crate and also the amount of times you repeat the crate training schedule. For example, a very young puppy may need to potty every hours, but a 6 months old puppy will need to potty every hours, so you can adjust the cycles of the schedule. If you follow the training program for 2 to 4 months, you will have a month old dog that no longer potties inside the house and only plays with his own chew toys. At this point, you can start letting you puppy roam around the house supervised more and more time, leave the gate of the crate always open in case your dog wants to rest inside the crate. Eventually, your dog can live freely with you inside the house and only use the crate for rest time, a safe space for when guests are home and for travel or other needed occasion. Never leave a puppy inside a crate longer than 3 hours. Find the Best Dog Crate Before starting on a puppy crate training schedule, you need to get the right crate. With hundreds of them available, it can be a daunting task. Follow the tips below to find the right one for you and your pet. What size should a dog crate be? The crate should be big enough for your dog to fit standing and be able to turn around. Nothing more. If bigger, your dog could start using part of it as a toilet - a big no-no. If you have a puppy that will grow and do not want to buy two crates, cover part of the bigger crate with a box to prevent the puppy from using the extra-space for potty. Measure your dog standing up from hears to toes height and nose to tail length , add a couple of inches to each measurement and buy the size crate closer to those measurements! What is the best dog crate material? Fabric dog crates are lightweight and very easy to fold, making them an excellent choice for travel. Your dog must be fully crate trained and still be supervised at all times because a dog could break out of it very easily. If you are going camping, to a doggy event or on a trip, this is a great choice. However, I do not recommend crates made out of fabric for potty-training and daily unsupervised confinement. One of the best travel crates in the market, the EliteField can be folded for transport and has 3 doors which can be usefull for training dog sports. Wire dog crates are a very popular choice because they can be very secure, most can be folded for storage or travel and they tend to be cheaper than plastic ones. You can also find non-collapsible wire crates that are sturdier and prevent clever dogs from escaping. The Midwest Homes Crate is one of the most popular to potty train your dog. This crate can be folded for transportation and has 2 doors to allow you to place it at different angles. It includes a divider that is important to make the crate smaller then bigger as your puppy grows. A play pen is also a popular option to keep your puppy confined to a smaller area. The BestPet Dog Playpen is a good option and can be assembled in different ways. Keep in mind that if the area is too big, he may go potty inside! Plastic dog crates are favored because they are very strong and tough, they also block more of the view, creating a safe and secure area for your dog. Plastic dog crates are also good for your pet when traveling on an airplane. Petmate is a good brand, the dog crates are very sturdy and durable. They are not easy to transport because it's a two part crate but if your dog chews on everything, this is a good option. Decorative dog crates are available to match your furniture and create and aesthetic home environment. They are more expensive, but worth the money if you are thinking your dog will be using his crate long-term. Decorative crates are more expensive but look great in your home! It's important to teach your puppy to love this place so he will also use it to rest in the future. Some IchbingGo crates come with wheels to make them easy to move around the house. These a great feature. However, once the crate is in place make sure to lock the wheels to prevent your puppy to get scared to go inside if it moves. Learn more about raising a puppy! Puppy Clicker Training: Learn how to clicker train your puppy! It's fun, its easy.Bite inhibition: Is your puppy chewing everything.This article will teach you everything you need to know about teaching your puppy to use its mouth properly. Don't wait until it's too late. Are Goldendoodles easy to crate train? With our tips and tricks, you can train your puppy quickly. Crate training has a lot of benefits for a growing puppy. But most people give up after a few days of trying. We want to help you conquer this obstacle. Step One: The Crate Size The first step to success is to crate train a Goldendoodle puppy is choosing the right size crate. We believe the best dog crates on the market are the adjustable types. A kennel like the Midwest Homes iCrate has everything you could want. They come with a sturdy build, pan, and divider. Why his stomach is the best method. You will want training treats on hand for the first several days and special treats and busy toys when you are gone. Things like KONG chew toys , or favorite toys that your puppy only gets when you are gone are perfect. The idea is to give your puppy treats during the training process and give them something fun and new to do while you are away. If you make crate training your Goldendoodle puppy a fun experience, you will have faster results. But we will talk more about how to use these treats next. Set your crate up in a high-traffic area of the house. This can be in the living room or room where your puppy will spend most of his time. Make it homey with a few toys, but not the special ones, and a blankie or two. They might even go in and out several times to get a treat, and you should oblige. Soon all you have to do is say kennel, and he will know what to do. Step Four: Play Fetch! If your puppy is having difficulty going into the crate by himself, a game of fetch might persuade him. Start by playing a game of fetch with his favorite toy in the same room as the kennel. After a bit of back and forth, throw the toy into the crate. And when your puppy goes in to get the toy, give them a treat and praise. Soon they will overcome their fear of the big scary metal thing and go in alone. Then you can give them a treat every time they enter alone. Once you have done this for a few days, you should tell them the order, and they get into the crate before getting food. They will eagerly get inside for anything. First, you want to start slow. Start by meeting their needs first: eating, drinking , potty, and collar off. Then give your puppy the crate command. Once in the crate, give your puppy a treat and a special toy. Make your puppy think you are leaving the house by walking out the door. Once the time is up, go inside to let your puppy out and give him praise. By slowly increasing the time your puppy is alone, you teach him that you will always come home. Keep at this; your puppy will go for hours alone in the kennel by the end. A puppy can only hold their bladders for about an hour every month they are of age. So a puppy who is only four months old can only hold their pee for four hours. And it seems easy as pie. But a few things can go wrong in the first few months of training and ruin all success. Here are a few things you never want to do if you want your puppy to learn quickly. Invade Space The first mistake that people make is invading the area. Your puppy is still learning how to use this crate. And you want it to feel like a safe and quiet place to escape when needed. Think of it as their room. If your puppy is in the kennel sleeping, eating, or exploring, you should leave him be. Use It As Punishment Using it as punishment is the next thing that can ruin crate training your puppy. Using the crate as punishment will make your dog feel like he has done something terrible every time you leave the house. Instead, you should redirect your puppy. Cleaning potty messes with urine cleaners and taking them for a walk helps with potty training. And if your puppy is chewing, turn their attention to a toy that is safe for gnawing. This method keeps the crate safe and solves the issues more effectively. We are just as happy to see our puppies as they are glad to see us. But if you make too big of a deal out of leaving and coming home, you could start anxiety in your dog. Sad goodbyes tell your puppy that your leaving is a bad thing. And happy hellos give your puppy anxiety waiting for you to come home. So you will want to keep both of these times cool and collected. Give your puppy the kennel command and leave neutrally, like all you do is brush your teeth. And when you come home, take care of business first. They will be happy, but a potty break is imminent, and after, you can give them a proper hello with a friendly game. Letting Out For Whining Chances are, you will crate-train your puppy at night as well. And if you tried this, you know your puppy will try to pull the heartstrings. How do I get my puppy to stop whining in his crate? But if your puppy is young, keep track of the time spent in the kennel. Is It Simple? You might be wondering if this is for every puppy. Or are Goldendoodles high maintenance? We assure you that every puppy goes through this, no matter what breed or age you start. But with our guide on crate train a Goldendoodle puppy, you will be smooth sailing in no time. Below is a Pinterest friendly photo…. Sharing is caring! If there is a behavior your puppy exhibits that you may think is cute while your puppy is small, you need to think ahead and determine if this behavior will be acceptable from an adult dog. Consistency is the most important tool for training a puppy in their first year and beyond. Each family member needs to use the same techniques and commands so as not to confuse your puppy. It is important to remember that a puppy associates a reward or a disciplinary action with its behavior in the past 3 seconds. Waiting longer than 3 seconds to reward or discipline is very confusing to a puppy. You cannot stop this behavior, but you can certainly direct your puppy to chew upon acceptable items until this phase passes at about a year of age. The only way puppies know how to play is the typical wrestling, biting, chasing, tackling, pulling, and nipping they do with littermates. In the absence of littermates, you and your family suddenly become the littermates. Repeat this same disciplinary action a total of three times in a row. Every now and then, a particularly feisty puppy will become more excited by this disciplinary action and need a more distinct disciplinary measure. This next action needs to be initiated quickly. This will be uncomfortable for your puppy. When behavior meets with uncomfortable consequences, the behavior will stop. With all this being said, the absolute best remedy is for you to arrange daily play dates with other puppies or young dogs. The bottom line is that your puppy needs to have active playtime each day. Jumping — Your puppy will jump on you to get your attention. This may seem innocent while your puppy is small, but Grandma may not appreciate being knocked over by the full grown untrained dog. Make sure you do not reward the puppy for the act of getting down as this will enforce the behavior of jumping up only to be told to get down for a reward. This is not a sign of aggression unless you allow this to go undisciplined over time. You need to actively discourage any and all growling directed at you. If your puppy growls at you when you get close to the food bowl, immediately remove the food bowl and feed the puppy out of your hand. Do not stop brushing until the puppy accepts this without growling. Each puppy needs to learn its place in the pecking order of a family. Obviously, they need to be the lowest on the totem pole. If allowed to be boss, growling is a normal thing for a puppy to exhibit when showing its dominance. Each family member must establish they are boss. This includes young children who are timid or fearful of the puppy. Remember that any behavior you allow as a puppy is then extremely difficult to curb later in life. If you do not wish to have your adult dog on the furniture, do not sit on the sofa holding your puppy. If you do not want your grown dog to grab your pant leg, etc. Leash Training — Training your Goldendoodle puppy to walk on a leash without pulling will take some time. Be patient and read our complete guide to leash training here. Buying a Trained Puppy — You can opt to have your puppy purchased at Fox Creek Farm trained by a professional trainer. Buying a trained puppy can save you a lot of time and benefit the entire family. Please visit our board and train services page for more information. Pet Insurance — We always recommend that any dog owner have a good quality pet insurance. Choosing the best pet insurance will take you a bit of time to learn about the coverages and fees associate with the brand and your particular dog. Spend some time with our blog articles on pet insurance linked above to determine what is right for you and your furry friend. So, how do you ensure that your puppy is comfortable and well adjusted to their crate? Platinum Goldendoodles is here to help you on your journey to crate training! Make sure to invest in a divider for the crate, so the space can grow with your Goldendoodle. Never force your puppy to get into the crate. Ignore the temper tantrums. Removing them at the first whimper will teach the puppy that is all it takes to regain their freedom! No yelling zone! Furthermore, never yell at a puppy while they are in the crate. A crate is supposed to be a safe place for relaxation and sleep. This will lead the Goldendoodle to associate the crate with fear! Ignore any demands from your pup and carry on with business as usual. Do not leave your puppy in the crate all day and night. Investing in a puppy is an agreement to make the 2 am wake-up call so your Goldendoodle can go potty! Make a place for puppies! A crate should be a place for your Goldendoodle to calm down, unwind, and feel at ease. Fill the crate with their favorite chew toys and comfort items. You can also use a blanket to drape over the crate, so the space is free from outside distractions. When you can, leave the door open so they can explore the crate on their own time. On that note, never use a crate as punishment. Praise, Praise, Praise! Your Goldendoodle needs to know that its crate is not a place for punishment or negativity. You can use treats to reward them once they enter their crate and always use lots of praise! One treat to entice them in and another once they have entered. Positive reinforcement is key when it comes to training any dog. Slow and Steady. It would be a shock to anyone to go from having the freedom to roam, to hours spent in a crate! When beginning crate training, start with small increments of time and slowly increase the duration. Once they are comfortable during the entire 20 minutes, you can increase the time! This will avoid fostering any feelings of fear and anxiety during crate time. Potty Breaks. Before crating your puppy, make sure they have used the bathroom! If they are whining to get out, you can eliminate the possibility that they need to go outside. But, sometimes, accidents do happen. Try not to stress and try, try again. Potty and crate training is a learning process that is developed over time. It is all a part of the journey to having a well-behaved Goldendoodle. Find the right size. As mentioned before, having the right crate for your puppy will make a huge difference. Utilize a divider to ensure they have a cozy space, and no room to create a potty corner! You can also use a small bed to sleep. All in all, crates are a fantastic tool for training and a great way to make your Goldendoodle comfortable in their new environment. How you interact with crate time will make the difference between the crate being enjoyable and a place of anxiety. Just remember, use lots of praise, avoid yelling, and enjoy your new addition to the family! Goldendoodle vs Bernedoodle vs Sheepadoodle On day one, you may simply want to feed your pup in the crate and initially let him sniff the place out without even closing the door. Once he is familiar with the crate, you can start closing him for short periods of time and always reward him with treats upon entering the crate. At the beginning, make sure your pup can still see you - this helps your doodle relax and settle sooner. On this note, we have found most puppies adapt more quickly to sleeping through the night in their crate if they are in the same room as a human. Still, you can expect the first few nights to be quite difficult. The first few days can be extremely difficult, but your consistency will pay off. Many owners find it difficult to be consistent because of their worry that their dog is miserable with crate training and, true enough, the puppies can sound really pitiful in there. But stay strong and remember that you are actually helping them in the long run for the times that they must be left alone when you go out. Keeping your puppy in a kennel while you are gone not only keeps them safe, but when utilized correctly, the crate actually feels like a safe, cozy place to your pup and will help keep him calm and rest when he must be left alone. Keeping a routine is key so your pup knows what to expect. Allow pup to settle for about five minutes before you let him or her out. The only time this does not apply is in the middle of the night. You will know you have mastered this important aspect to training when your pup voluntarily enters his crate to rest or nap without even being instructed to do so! A well crate trained pup makes grooming, boarding, and traveling much easier for you and your pup. Need help with training? Location of the crate will highly affect your efforts on how to crate train a puppy. Because dogs are social animals, an ideal location for the crate is within an area that the family visits often. This could be in the kitchen, living room, or bedroom. If you have noticed that your dog likes a particular corner or room to take a nap, or if you want your puppy to sleep in a particular location at night, then this might be the best location for the crate. Avoid putting the crate in an isolated area like the laundry or furnace room. Some fellow Doodle owners have done this with great success: Introducing the Crate, Step-by-Step Guide Here is a short step-by-step guide on introducing the crate to your puppy. Ideally, you should have the crate ready to go the day you bring your puppy home. The best first confinement session should be when the puppy is ready to take a nap and as early in the day as possible. This will likely be after a playtime, exercise, and going potty. Place a few treats, toys, or food inside the crate so that your puppy is keen on going inside on his own. If the puppy lies down elsewhere to take a nap, move him to his crate for the duration of the nap. Leave the room but remain close enough to hear your puppy. Some level of crying or whining is expected the first few times he is separated from his family members. Only release him from the crate when he wakes up, is calm, or if you need to wake your puppy up for feeding, play, or a potty break. Repeat these steps a few times before bedtime. Over a few weeks, gradually increase the amount of time that your puppy stays in the crate. Cap the max time to three or four hours until the puppy is older than five months of age. Prior to bedtime, your puppy should be exercised and secured in his crate for the night. Repeat these steps each day until he willingly and happily goes into his crate on his own. Avoid letting him out of the crate when he cries or whines. Ignore him until the crying stops. The location of the crate, as well as the techniques you use for crate training should be designed to keep the crate association positive. For example, your puppy should be encouraged to sleep, nap, or play with his toys in his little den. On the other hand, be mindful that if your dog is confined at a time when he is in need of play, attention, or to go potty, then he may try to escape the crate and experience anxiety. Likewise, never use the crate or confinement area as a punishment. This may make puppy feel trapped, anxious, and frustrated. This is the most important goal in how to crate train a puppy. A radio or TV may help to calm your dog and may help to mask environmental noises that can trigger crying or barking. Here is a good rule of thumb. Only leave a puppy in his crate in hours equal to the age in months that he is. Example: if your puppy is two months old, only leave him in the crate for up to two hours at a time. Never leave your puppy in his crate for longer than he can control himself or he may be forced to go potty in his crate. If your pup must be left for longer than he can control elimination, a larger confinement area with puppy pee pads, or access to outside through a dog door, will be necessary. Second, puppies need a certain amount of socialization. Some level of crying or whining is expected the first few times he is separated from his family members while in his crate. For some unfortunate souls, your puppy may be rather relentless with the crying for much longer than that. However, the crying might persist longer than that if certain actions are taken when he cries. For example, avoid letting him out of the crate when he cries or whines and ignore him until the crying stops. Moreover, only release him from the crate when he wakes up, is calm, or if you need to wake your puppy up for feeding, play, or a potty break. If the crying does not subside on its own, you might find that a mild interruption helps. A mild interruption could be some kind of sharp noise, like shaking a can containing a few coins. A quick squirt from a water gun may also be effective. During the interruption, you should remain out of sight, so that the puppy does not learn to associate the interruption with your presence. Though not always viewed as a favorable option, another way to discourage crying or barking is to use a bark-collar or similar device that produces an alarm or distracting spray when he barks. Avoid any interruption that causes fear or anxiety. These are not mentally healthy for your dog and could make the crying worse. They can even cause him to go potty inside the crate. Whether you cover the crate depends on your dog. Some dogs love the security provided by a darkened, enclosed space, while others can feel anxious in a confined area. A crate cover can help reduce anxiety and soothe dogs by limiting visual stimuli, which in turn can prevent excitement and barking. Source As with crate training, a gradual introduction to a cover on his crate is the best way to get him used to it. For steps on introducing your dog to a covered crate, check out this article. Well, the same way you would crate train your puppy during the daytime! The only difference is that he and you will be sleeping hopefully and that he may be able to go longer periods without needing attention. Is it Cruel to Crate a Dog at Night? No, it is definitely not cruel to crate your dog at night! The crate still provides the same benefits mentioned at the beginning of this article during the nighttime. Some crying is to be expected the first few nights your puppy is in his new home. What do you do when your puppy cries at night? If your puppy cries in the middle of the night, you have some choices on what to do. You can ignore him or use a mild interruption, as discussed above. You can comfort him by letting him know that you are present. You may also talk to him a bit if necessary, or put your hand on his crate. Another option is to sit or lay on the floor for a few minutes right when he goes into the crate if he is especially upset. Also, new Doodle puppy owners are swearing by Snuggle Puppies left and right. The Snuggle Puppy helps puppies with its pulsing heartbeat and heat pack, simulating the comfort of mama. It is perfect while crate training, as it reduces whining and barking, and it helps puppies transition to their new home. The result is a calmer puppy who feels less loneliness, fear, and separation anxiety.