10 week old german shepherd puppies

By Ciera Velarde A dog person through and through, Ciera spends most of her free time trying to convince her boyfriend that they should adopt a puppy. In the meantime, she gets her dog time in by FaceTiming her family's dog Luke, a Goldendoodle named in honor of her favorite Gilmore Girls character. Ciera draws on her love for all things pups when writing for Daily Paws, and she has previously worked for BuzzFeed, where she wrote the Dog A Day newsletter. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Updated on October 22, We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Photo: Courtesy of Etsy As dog owners, we never pass up an opportunity to make our pets look as adorable as possible. With the holiday season right around the corner, pet parents can dress their pup up in the most festive dog Christmas outfits imaginable. There are buffalo plaid shirts for that rustic cabin vibe, cozy Fair Isle sweaters for a traditional winter look, or even tulle-accented dresses to add a splash of sparkle to your pup's party attire. And lots of lots of red and green, of course! The Best Dog Christmas Sweaters to Bring More Cheer to the End of Once you take a look at all of these Christmas clothes for dogs we've picked out, you won't be able to stop yourself from ordering one or potentially a few! After all, they'll need a fancy outfit for your holiday card photo and something more comfortable to wear on Christmas morning. So whether you're looking for a formal dress, some matching pajamas , or even an outfit that makes your dog look like a reindeer yes, that exists , we guarantee you'll find the perfect Christmas look for your pup this holiday season. Santa Elk Reindeer Xmas Costume Courtesy of Etsy We can't decide what the cutest part of this outfit is: the adorable Santa on the back, the fuzzy lining, or the reindeer antlers. On second thought, it's definitely the antlers. Put this soft sweater on your pet and snap a photo because everyone on your Instagram feed needs to see how dapper they look! Available in 14 colors and 10 sizes, you'll be able to customize the perfect look and fit whether you're shopping for a Pomeranian or a Bernese mountain dog. Place your dog front and center for your Christmas family photo because they deserve all the attention, especially when they clean up this nice! This festive look is designed for smaller dogs, so make sure you're measuring your pup before placing your order to get the right size. The elastic band on this tulle skirt is snug yet comfortable so it'll stay on even as they leap and prance around like they're starring in a canine version of The Nutcracker. Our only wish is that they made these in human sizes for the whole family, too. Either way, no matter what the rest of the fam rocks the morning of, every pet parent will be racing to upload your snaps of this outfit to share with out-of-town relatives on Instagram. We're personally partial to the "Sorry Santa! I ate your cookies! Just be sure your pup doesn't actually eat the cookies, since both chocolate and raisins are toxic for dogs! In a turtleneck. That's it, take all my money. Humans shouldn't be the only one to enjoy the warmth and comfort of a sweater, so wrap your dog up in this red sweater featuring snowflakes and reindeer and cuddle up with them by the fire. It's especially great for small dogs who tend to get cold in the winter thanks to the thick material. Spoil your dog with this extra-special holiday dress that will make all the other dogs in the neighborhood green with envy. Spruce your good girl up in this festive costume with white faux fur lining the top and bottom. It features a hook-and-loop closure so you can slip this Mrs. Claus dress on them without any trouble. Shop Now: Merry Makings Mrs. Even if you're just staying home this holiday season, your dog will look and feel extra cozy in this sweater as they tear open their presents on Christmas morning. An empty outlined icon indicating the option to save an item Save Article svetikd When it comes to planning your family Halloween costume , don't forget about your dogs! Of course, you'll want to incorporate Halloween costumes for kids , but nothing is more fun than getting your pet involved in the holiday. Whether you choose a punny Halloween costume or one from pop culture , you're sure to win the neighborhood contest when your dog is involved. You can't go wrong with a funny family costume that involves Fido and we've included more than one here. Looking for something a little more classic? We would never dream of leaving off our go-to witches costume of this round up. Even if your pup hates wearing outfits, we've found a few costumes that we're pretty positive you can convince them to wear long enough for a picture, with a few treats as a bargaining chip, of course. Just be sure the costume doesn't interfere with your pet's sight, hearing, breathing, or mouth and you're good to go, per the American Veterinary Medical Association. And, of course, never leave your dog unattended while they are in costume or when there's candy accessible to them. Looking for more Halloween costume inspiration? Check out these awesome ideas! You've viewed 48 of products Frequently Asked Question What is the idea behind matching dog and owner clothing? Matching dog and owner clothing is a fun way to celebrate the bond between humans and their furry companions. Dogs are cherished family members, and coordinating outfits allows us to create lasting memories together. Not only that, but hoodies make for exceptionally cozy attire for both humans and dogs alike. It's a way to show our love and affection, demonstrating that our strong dogs, like Pitbulls, French Bulldogs, big dogs, and even puppies, are an integral part of our lives. How do I find the right matching dog and owner clothing set? To find the perfect matching dog and owner clothing set, there are a few things to consider. Look for sets that are made with soft and flexible fabrics, ensuring comfort for both you and your furry companion. Specifically, seek out hoodies that are tailored fit for your strong dogs, like Pitbulls, French Bulldogs, big dogs, or even puppies. This ensures a stylish and snug look. By choosing a set that combines fashion and functionality, you and your four-legged friend can rock your matching hoodies with pride and create adorable memories together. Filter Dog Halloween Costumes Face it. Your dog is more of a party animal than you'll ever be. If it were up to him, he'd be drinking punch straight from the bowl within the first five minutes of the party, followed by a run across the dance floor to chase that person dressed like a cat. That's why you shouldn't deny your pet the pleasure of dressing up for the holiday, just like his master! You'll find fun dog Halloween costumes here! Fortunately for you, we a have myriad of great dog costumes for your pet to choose from. If your dog's got the rhythm in his heart, then you can dress him up as one of the great musicians of the century, like Elvis or Michael Jackson. If your dog is more of the superhero type, he can become Batman or Superman. He can even help you on some Ghostbusting missions in one of our Ghostbusters pet costumes. Whatever his fancy is, we're sure to have something that will let your pooch get in touch with his inner party animal with our dog costumes. Search through our large selection of pet costumes for the best puppy outfits around! Dog Costumes Life without your pet is just too hard to imagine! Your furry little friend gives you love, companionship, and endless hours of entertainment. Your pet could be the life of the party if he just had a silly outfit to wear! From Star Wars to Wizard of Oz , your dog can join any kind of party with one of these adorable outfits. If your pooch is a fun-loving canine, then he might be ready for one of our dog costumes. Just check our list below of some of our favorites! Of course, make sure to check out our other lion costumes , so you can match your pet by going as a group costume with your pet! Hot Dog Costume for Dogs Now, this hot dog costume may be a little confusing to your little doggie. Normally, your pup likes to eat the hot dog, but in this funny outfit for dogs, your pet becomes the hot dog. The hot dog portion of the costume is even made out of a faux leather material to give your pet an appetizing look! Dog Spider Costume Does your dog ever chase after bugs? Does he leap and bound across the living room trying to eat that rogue fly that found its way into your home? Well, then perhaps your pooch likes to pretend that he is a vicious arachnid, hunting for his meal. Insects in your home had better beware! Shark Puppy Costume Have you ever seen your dog dreaming? You know how it goes. They start making some goofy noises, and then their legs start twitching. Well, your dog might be dreaming of being the apex predator of the ocean, hunting down all the fishies that are smaller and weaker than him! Of course, you pup could just be dreaming about eating an endless array of hamburgers that fell on the floor… Minion Dog Costume Now, this is a costume that accurately portrays how most dogs view themselves! Your average dog sees himself as your ultimate helper, much like the Despicable Me Minions are to Gru. However, the Minions from the animated film often find themselves causing more trouble for their master than helping much like your clumsy pup. Gru still loves them anyways and lets them tag along during his misadventures. This Minion dog costume should help you bring your pup on all your misadventures as well. It comes with a jacket and hood that help make your puppy look like a creation from the depths of your laboratory. No lightning bolts are necessary to jolt this costume to life. It also looks great with any of our mad scientist costumes. Costumes for Cats Cats are quite the enigma. Even experienced cat owners will tell you that sometimes, their cat just does things that cannot be explained, but that never stops us from loving the fluffy little animals. For those of you brave enough to try, we do carry many outfits that are that can be worn by cats. Those that do enjoy wearing clothes will look ultra-adorable in our costumes for cats. Search through our selection of pet costumes to find something your kitty won't hate to wear. Dress them up in cat Halloween costumes that one time a year or even for an every day look. Just think about it. You must feed him and provide him with suitable drinking fluids. You must provide him with adequate entertainment, or he will become dissatisfied and subsequently tear up the curtains. You even clean his poop up. Cat Bat Wings Have you ever been suspicious of your cat? He might just be a vampir in disguise! Well, now you can with this cat bat wings accessory. Cat Lion Costume Your kitty sees himself as a wild jungle king, even if he spends most of his time napping in sunbeams. He sees himself as a ferocious lion, who uses his masterful hunting skills to track down any prey, even if he IS still afraid of a lone cucumber. Well, we suggest making a compromise, by letting him wear this cat lion costume , which is based on the cowardly lion from the Wizard of Oz. Some cats are afraid of them, since they resemble their well-known foe, the cucumber. A few cats actually eat them. Even fewer cats… dream of becoming one! Now, your ferocious little kitty can become her favorite fruit when she dresses up in this cute cat banana costume. Star Wars Dog Costumes Have you ever wondered what kind of character your dog would be if he were in the Star Wars movies? Would your puppy be an agent for the Galactic Empire, wearing a Stormtrooper outfit? He could even be an Imperial Walker, so you can dress up like Darth Vader and become a real live version of the classic meme. Well, whatever role you think your pooch would play in the Star Wars movies, we have a costume that will help him unleash his inner star power! Just check out our list below. Ewok Dog Costume Wicket might be one of the easiest associations you can make with your pet! After all, Ewoks are small, furry, adorable, and they have an intense desire to protect their home from bad guys. Just use this Ewok dog costume to get his look down right. Bantha Dog Costume Is your dog the kind of wild beast that Tusken Raiders would like to take along with them on arduous journeys on Tatooine? Then your pup is probably a bit like a Bantha! Banthas are loyal creatures that carry the Tusken Raiders around on their backs and this Bantha dog costume is an easy way to transform your pup into one of the critters from the movie. Your dog can look like the assault vehicle used by the Empire in The Empire Strikes Back when he wears this Imperial Walker dog costume. Just make sure to help him fight off the Snowspeeders that will be gunning for him when he wears this cute costume. You can also take him for a walk dressed as Darth Vader for great comedic appeal. Jedi Dog Costume Sometimes your dog is your only hope when a situation goes sideways. Like when your plate tips over and your entire dinner falls onto the floor? Yoda Dog Costume Is your pooch wise beyond his years? Does he like to lurk around in swampy areas like Dagobah? That little green guy liked to get muddy and hang out with all kinds of creepy creatures in the depths of Dagobah. Dewback Dog Costume Maybe your dog is a little bit more of a bad guy! Well, then he probably needs an outfit that more accurately reflects his allegiance. Your dog probably imagines himself as being a great service to the Empire and no creature is of more service to the Empire as the big, lizard-like creatures called Dewbacks! These critters transport Stormtroopers all across the deserts of Tatooine and this Dewback dog costume is a great way to make him feel just like a Dewback. This quick guide will tell you step-by-step how to dress your large or small dog into a Halloween costume. Ears in Head Piece Some costumes come with a headpiece, so you may want to start by putting that on your pup. Fasten Head Piece The next step is simple as long as you have a compliant pooch! If you fasten it too loosely, it may easily fall off. If you do it too tightly, it may be uncomfortable for your pet. Head Piece Attached When the headpiece is completely attached, your dog should look like a wacky character of your choosing! Make your final adjustments to ensure that the piece is secure on his head and not too tight. If your pooch is uncomfortable, or not used to wearing headwear, he may try to take it off, so comfort is key. Check to see if there are any Velcro straps in the front and fasten them. Remember that candy unless specifically made for dogs is not good for dogs, so you might want to bring a few treats of your own if you plan on taking him with you or your kids for a round of trick or treating in the neighborhood.

While most people have heard of the English bulldog and the French bulldog, many may not know about the American bulldog. The American version of the bulldog has longer legs, and it is faster and agiler than the English bulldog. Muscular, sturdy and powerful, they were used as working dogs for many tasks including guarding and hunting. The American bulldog is known for its loyalty and bravery. This dog has a happy, protective and energetic personality. This breed loves children and has strong protective instincts. When they are raised with cats and other dogs they will generally get along well, but they can be aggressive toward unknown cats and dogs. The American bulldog has a lifespan of about 10 to 12 years. Over time, the American bulldog came very close to extinction. But in the midth century two men decided to restore the American bulldog — John D. Johnson American bulldogs are also known as classic American bulldogs. This type of American bulldog is the larger of the two types. Typically the Johnson American bulldog will stand about 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 90 and pounds. The Johnson American bulldog has heavier bones, wider chests and boxier heads. It more closely resembles the English bulldog. It has an undershot bite. While the Scott line of bulldogs is usually pure white, the Johnson line of bulldogs is usually white in color with patches of red, brown or black. It has a wider and stockier body that most closely resembles a bull mastiff. A Johnson American bulldog can weigh pounds or more. The Johnson American bulldog has larger bones than the Scott American bulldog. His legs extend out to the sides of his body like his ancestor, the English bulldog. He has facial wrinkles and a signature underbite. The Scott American bulldog is often called the standard American bulldog. It stands about 22 to 27 inches at the shoulder. The Scott American bulldog looks like an oversized white pit bull. The Scott American bulldog has longer legs that are positioned under the body, not out to the side like the Johnson American bulldog. This dog has a longer muzzle. The bite is either level or a slight underbite. The Scott American bulldog is sleek and muscular, and it is smaller and more athletic than the Johnson American bulldog. The characteristics of the Scott American bulldog include a narrower head and muzzle and a slightly undershot jaw with a reverse scissors bite. The Scott American bulldog has a strong urge to chase prey and they can sometimes behave aggressively toward other dogs. With a muscular and sleek build, this breed is more agile and stands smaller than the Johnson American Bulldog. He also has a narrower head and a unique reverse scissor bite, which is characterized by an undershot jaw with lower teeth near the front of the mouth. Despite his tough appearance, the Scott American is a calm, confident, and friendly dog. He loves socializing with his human pack as well as other canines. If left alone for long stretches of time, the Scott American Bulldog can develop separation anxiety, resulting in bad behavior. Training It is imperative that you start socializing and training your Scott American from the get-go. Not only should you be teaching him basic commands, but you should also be teaching your Scott American how to safely approach other dogs and small children with curiosity and kindness rather than aggression. In order to properly socialize your Scott American Bulldog, you should be constantly exposing him to new people, places, and pooches. Walk him in the park, around the neighborhood, or take him to your local dog park. These daily training sessions will not only stimulate him mentally, but they will also be great physical activities for the highly energetic Scott American. This dog needs at least two hours of exercise or more every day. When teaching your Scott American commands and tricks, positive reinforcement works best. While this breed is generally hardy and healthy, they can suffer from some health concerns as they age. The Scott American Bulldog is a Brachycephalic breed and can have breathing issues as he grows older. Additionally, the Scott American can be prone to different kinds of allergies. The most common type of allergy he can suffer from is skin allergies. To avoid itching and irritation, always use a hypoallergenic shampoo when bathing your Scott American. This breed does do well with other dogs and even small children. However, they do need to be socialized from day one. If you are gone for long periods of time or live in an apartment without a backyard, this breed may not be ideal for you. This breed is available in an array of colors, including brown, red, and black. Large and lovable, the Johnson American Bulldog makes a wonderful companion for almost any family. However, due to his massive size, this dog can be extremely powerful. Socialization and training are essential for the Johnson American Bulldog. He will do best as the only pet in the household since he can be territorial toward other dogs and even cats. Training The Johnson American Bulldog is a loyal dog who needs a firm, patient hand. Because of his long lineage as a livestock guardian, this breed is good at listening and adapting to new commands. It is critical to train and socialize your Johnson American Bulldog as soon as you bring him home. Growing to weigh over pounds, this breed can easily overpower his owner. Take your puppy on walks, to the park, and expose him to as many strangers and new dogs as possible. He may be prone to breathing issues and allergies later in life. A high-quality, protein-packed diet, daily exercise, and routine vet visits will ensure your Johnson American Bulldog lives for years to come. Image Credit: Zanna Pesnina, Shutterstock Suitable for: The Johnson American Bulldog makes a great pet for families, couples, and individuals who are willing to put in the time and effort it takes to properly train and socialize this dog. He does best as the only pet in the family and needs plenty of attention. If you work long hours or are away for long periods, this breed may not be right for you. Both breeds make awesome canine companions. However, if you have other pets, you should not get a Johnson American. Both of these breeds need to be socialized and trained from the start. While the Scott has a higher energy level than the Johnson American, both dogs need adequate amounts of exercise every day. No matter which Bullie you choose, the Johnson and Scott American both make great pets! What Is a Johnson American Bulldog? The American Bulldog breed branches out into two main subcategories or bloodlines, which are the Johnson American Bulldogs and the Scott American Bulldogs. Typically, Johnsons are called classics, while Scotts are known as performance types. Many Bulldogs around the country originate from these breeds and are either pure or mixed with the two. Johnson American Bulldogs are known as the classic or original American Bulldogs. They are also called the bully type due to their very bulky appearance filled with muscle and lean meat. They can weigh up to 90 to pounds and stand about 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder. The fur of a Johnson American Bulldog is commonly white with brown or black splotches around their body. They have large heads which makes them look menacing. The coat is smooth to the touch, and they do not shed heavily compared to other breeds. Originally, patches in the coats were red, brown, and black. However, crossbreeding and evolutionary traits helped them to develop different shades of fawn and mixed brown. Johnson American Bulldogs usually have black or brown colored eyes, but there is a rare case in which two colors manifest. This breed is also very loyal to owners and compassionate even to kids. They are confident and lively, but some Bulldogs show laziness when they are very comfortable. There are even reports of leaving kids with Johnson American Bulldogs because of their ability to protect young humans. They first appeared in history books in the 17th century as farm or ranch dogs. They served many purposes such as guarding against farm predators, catching hunts, as well as protecting the family property. In the 18th century, the Old English Bulldog became famous in bullbaiting, a blood sport in which two dogs fought with each other. While this trend quickly passed due to bans, the Bulldog continued its job as a utility dog for farms and herds. Over the years, the breed became popular due to their ability to fend off and predate migrated feral pigs. When war broke out in the country during World War II, the breed almost became extinct. However, a noble breeder named John D. Johnson took effort in revitalizing their population by finding the finest Bulldogs that he could scour for. Later, he was joined by another man named Alan Scott. Both began their journey of reviving an almost dead breed into a healthy society. Alan Scott leaned more towards the Southern Farm breeds which were used to fend off feral pigs. This gave rise to an athletic and long-legged Bulldog breed also known as the Scott Type or the Standard American Bulldog. On the other hand, the Johnson series featured multiple sketches and patches of red, black, or brown on the skin. Over the years, many variations stemmed from these two main types. However, such types can still be attributed as a mix or blend of the original Johnson and Scott types. They are very compassionate, loving, and loyal dogs to their owners, even towards kids and younger ages. This makes them very good watchdogs and protectors of the house. However, this can be a problem since they tend to be overly wary of strangers as their fight instincts kick in. While they may be very close to their owners, they are very suspicious of people that they do not know. It is common to see a Johnson American Bulldog commits an act of bravery by protecting its owner from imminent harm. When it comes to exercise, a Johnson American Bulldog needs lots of it. They become very restless and aggressive when they have nothing to do to the point where they bite and tear off furniture or everything that their teeth sink to. To avoid this, you must be ready to engage in some serious exercises with your Johnson American Bulldog to tire them. This makes them unsuitable for apartment living, as they prefer to run in wide lawns or backyards. Like any guard dog or fighting dog breed, a Johnson American Bulldog needs to have proper socialization and training, especially when it comes to strangers. This will help avoid unnecessary aggression that can result in injury. Also, you must learn to bond with them in their baby days. It is crucial to imprint them with a human touch at an early age so that their relationships with you get stronger. A daily walk or run is also highly suggested so that their exercise needs can be fulfilled. These dogs have a life span of about 10 to 16 years, but some might have rare conditions that can affect their health. This can cause several bone tumors which can lead to fractures and worse, limb amputation. The exact cause of the condition is unknown, and it could happen to any Johnson American Bulldog. Cherry Eye: Cherry eye refers to the eyelid protrusion of an American Bulldog. In a literal sense, this means that a flesh mass radiates to the outside of the eye due to the abnormality of a gland. It is a birth defect that will be diagnosed by a veterinary. Usually, a surgical process to remove the mass is executed if it is severe. If not, medications can be an alternative. Dysplasia: Dysplasia is a condition common in large dogs and stems from abnormal joint development. Usually, such disease happens during the development period in the early months of the Bulldog. This can cause osteoporosis, uneven bone growth, and even the inability to walk properly. If dysplasia is discovered soon, surgery can be executed. This can greatly help in removing pain in your pets. To make sure that your pet is in its best shape, you must never neglect vet visits. It is also recommended to do all the required vaccines so that they are immune to the most preventable disease. Always check the overall health of your Bulldog as this will impact their time spent with you. Food Intake As a very large watchdog, the Johnson American Bulldog should always have meals fit for its size. Thus, they require huge amounts of protein and hydration to keep them pumping throughout the day. This will also help them develop leaner muscles which they can use for their daily activity. A great suggestion is the Wild High Grain-free dog food which combines both bull meat and vegetables in one tasty meal. Together with the food, treats are also highly appreciated. These can be used for training as well as familiarity purposes. As always, positive reinforcement should be imposed to avoid aggression. Physical Exercise As early as their third week after birth, a puppy can show signs of stubbornness and aggression. Because of this, it is very crucial to train them in various aspects to help them be better geared for life. The usual Johnson American Bulldog training include potty training, leash training, socialization, and biting control. Since Bulldogs are smart dogs, they learn this quickly. A great method to do this is to follow a routine or schedule so that your dog gets used to it. Do not worry if it fails on the first attempts, since no dog is perfect. Never punish your Bulldog as it will only cause them to be more reserved. In general, this training can be finished in a week or less. Socializing: Johnson American Bulldogs are very loyal towards their owners but can be reserved for strangers. This can be traced back to their days as farm guards in which they protect livestock with their abilities. Because of this, Bulldogs can be suspicious of people who they do not know. To combat such occurrence, you must socialize your dog with other people as well as pets so that they will be more used to dealing with relationships. As always, building bonds with your Bulldog will result in a better connection in the future. Bite Control: Bulldogs are biting enthusiasts especially in their early months. To control this, you must be ready to produce methods and techniques. A recommended way to lessen biting is by using toys such as teethers. With the help of these tools, they will not be bored; thus, decreasing the chances of destruction. Another great way to address the issue is through positive reinforcement. Grooming Due to their short coats and thin fur, the Johnson American Bulldog is not hard to groom. Keep in mind that they shed minimally regardless of this season, but they do not need baths unless they go to a nasty place. Slight brushes of their fur are needed here and there to foster proper hair growth. However, going to a coat trimmer depends on your preference as they do not really need it. A Bulldog should be brushed once every two weeks. In doing this, you must prepare a place in the yard or the lawn so that no hair will riddle the insides of your house. Grooming hand gloves are preferred due to the control and ease of access that they can give you. Work your way from the top of your head to your body for a finer finish. When it comes to baths, you can do it once every two months. Johnson American Bulldogs are very clean animals, so frequent baths are unnecessary unless they become dirty. To thoroughly clean them, you need to use a dog shampoo as human shampoos can be bad for their skin. Other parts of the body that you need to clean are ears, mouth, and nails. Be careful in dealing with these parts as they can be very sensitive. Also, check their ears and mouth for any defects as it could mean diseases. Flatulence and Drooling It is known that the Johnson American Bulldog is notorious for salivating especially for those dogs which have loose skin in their cheeks and mouth. This might require additional clean-ups before and after meals. However, do not worry, as this can always be addressed by proper training. Bulldogs are also known to fart excessively, especially when fed non-natural food. To counter this, always purchase all-natural ingredients such as fresh meat and good dog food to lessen the smell of the flatulence. Where to Get a Johnson American Bulldog? Your Johnson American Bulldog source will determine its temperament, health, and well-being. Sources take care of the pup from birth to maturity, so you should get one who knows everything about Bulldogs. In this industry, there are three main Bulldog sources: puppy mills, backyard breeders, and reputable breeders. Puppy mills mass-produce dog breeds only for the sake of money. They will always generate pups that are neglected and untrained. This can cause problems for you and your family. On the other hand, backyard breeders have no adequate knowledge of proper puppy raising. They only sell puppies due to the purpose of extra litter which they cannot take care of. Always seek help from reputable breeders as they are masters of Bulldog breeding. Another puppy source that you can consider is through adoption. Many puppy homes around the country have rescued Johnson American Bulldogs from their care, and you can always opt for them. Yes, this might be a very challenging task, but it is a very fulfilling one. Also, adoption centers charge less, as you only need to cover maintenance fees and the adoption process. If you want a very loyal dog with an active lifestyle, you should get a Johnson American Bulldog. They are ideal for homes that have backyard spaces since they tend to run around a lot. On the other hand, if you live in an apartment, you are better off with a smaller dog breed. If you decide to commit to a Johnson American Bulldog, you will have an unforgettable experience since the breed is protective of its family. Furthermore, you should consider increasing your monthly expenses for this breed. They require a lot of food and nutrition, so their stocks can quickly deplete. When it comes to grooming, it is not really a hassle. They do not shed that much so occasional baths are sufficient. You should always get the breed from a respected breeder as they will provide you with the necessary head start for the journey. Love your future Johnson American Bulldog as much as possible and they will surely return the favor. These dogs are among the best breeds loved by many around the world, and they will never let you down. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. These canines are generally white with patches of another color; however, Johnsons have also started appearing in other solid colors and brindle. Here are some shades these majestic pooches come in: Blue Johnson American Bulldog Blue is a faded variation of black occurring due to the presence of a rare mutation. Blue is actually an uncommon coat color for the Johnson Bulldog. Solid blacks are rare, and the black color usually appears on a white coat. In fact, white Johnson American Bulldogs are considered the breed standard. White Johnson American Bulldogs may be pure white or carry patches of another color. This color usually occurs due to crossbreeding the Johnson American Bulldog with another pooch with the brindle gene. Although crossbred canines cost less, they still make lovely pets. Johnson American Bulldog temperament The American Johnson Bulldog temperament can be described as patient, courageous, and protective, making them excellent watchdogs and family pets. They are quick to protect their family and home from any perceived threats. Due to the checkered history of certain bully-type breeds and their association with sports, many people are quick to label the Johnson American Bulldog aggressive. However, these canines are gentle, patient, and caring family pets that would never attack a person or another animal unprovoked. Do American Bulldog Johnson type make great family pets? The Johnson American Bulldogs are loyal, protective, and loving towards their family. Their high pain tolerance makes them excellent companions for children. However, be sure to supervise young children around this breed, as this giant pooch may accidentally hurt them. He can still get along well with other pets if they are properly socialized from an early age. American Johnson Bulldog training The Johnson American Bulldog is an intelligent breed that is easy to train for an experienced owner. They respond well to firm, consistent training, and positive reinforcement. If the training process is not started early, the Johnson standard American Bulldog may become stubborn and uncooperative. Here are some types of training that are essential for Johnson American Bulldogs: Socializing: Socializing your Johnson American Bulldog is one of the most important things you can do for him. Without socialization, he may become aggressive towards other animals and people. Start socializing your pup as early as possible by taking him to puppy classes, dog parks, and playdates with other pups. Obedience training: All pups should know basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Obedience training will not only make your puppy more well-behaved but also strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. Leash training: All pups should be leash trained so that they can go on walks and hikes with their humans. Start leash training your Johnson American Bulldog as early as possible with a rope dog leash that is heavy-duty and durable. The best way to leash train your pup is to start with short walks around the house or backyard. Gradually increase the length of the walks as your pup gets more comfortable with being on a leash. Johnson American Bulldog living conditions A young Johnson line American Bulldog is a large high-energy pup who needs a spacious backyard with plenty of room to run and play. If you live in an apartment, this might not be the breed for you. Many Johnson American Bulldog owners allow their canine companions to roam freely in their backyard. However, we are aware that some towns or counties have zoning laws that prohibit physical fences. If this is the case with you, you can alternatively use a wireless dog fence to keep your pups safe. This way, they can still roam freely in your backyard and enjoy some sun and fresh air while staying safe and sound. But before you install a wireless dog fence, you may find it helpful to put in place an electronic dog door , especially if you let your K9 friends leave or come back into the house on their own. Many doggy owners love the automatic doggy door because it saves them so much time and headache from opening or closing the door every time their pooch needs to head outside or come back in. So if you work from home or at the office, you may find the electronic dog door to be a lifesaver, both for you and your furry friends. When it comes to bathing your Johnson American Bulldog, once every four weeks should do the trick. It is a good idea to bathe your Johnson American Bulldog after he or she played in mud, or puddle, or had a long hike. When you do bathe your pooch, make sure to use a dog shampoo that not only cleanses but also moisturizes the skin and coat.

English bulldogs barking may look really adorable and full of vigor. Barking is one way for dogs to express themselves aside from wagging their tail, running around, or making playful bites. As an owner, I love the occasional bark of my English bulldog due to its deep baritone sound. But like any music, sometimes the noise can become to much and cause anxiety. It is best for everything to have its balance and that is no different from a barking dog. Occasional barking implies that your pet is doing well. Why does my English bulldog bark so much? Excessive barking is how an English bulldog communicates and indicates that it wants something. Barking can occur from fright, anxiety, as a warning, sadness, or excitement. Barking is healthy for your bulldog when it is done for the right reasons. It is important to understand why a bulldog is barking to correct the wrong behavior and support the good barking behavior. Do Barks Have Different Meanings? Is it just a sound produced by dogs in their vocal cords? Does it have a deeper meaning? You need to know the answers to these questions to gain a fundamental understanding of why your pet is barking uncontrollably. As I said earlier for dogs, barking is a form of communication, and since they use it to express themselves, barking my not be that simple as you think. A study published in the Trends Cognitive Science Journal asserts that the bark of domesticated dogs holds a deeper meaning. Barking may indicate that a dog is upset, hungry, angry, lonely, and many others. Dogs are highly sociable and barking is a way for them to connect with others. Find Out Now! Isolation barks are characterized by large intervals while play barks occur in clusters. In summary, before telling your English bulldog to shut up you might want to know the loudness of its barking. Resonant deep barking may indicate that your pet is sensing a stranger prowling within the vicinity of your house. On the other hand, a loud high pitched sound done may indicate that your pet is lonely or is overly excited. Some Probable Reasons English bulldog barking, which may happen during the daytime, nighttime, or from day to night, may be caused by environmental, emotional, or physical reasons which I will briefly discuss here. This means that your pet loves to socialize a lot. For your furry companion, regular playtime, and petting with its owner is a must. Without doing these things, your English bulldog gets bored easily. For your pet, one of the ways to solve this is to grab your attention and it will do so by barking a lot. Aside from boredom, frustration is another reason why your pet is barking so much. Instances that make your pet feel like this are the arrival of a newborn or the adoption of a new pet. Feels the Need to Move Around Your English bulldog barking like crazy might also be caused by its need to move around. I need to go out to see how my friend, Larry, is doing! Dogs have this uncanny ability to sense that something terrible is about to come such as the upcoming occurrence of natural calamities or the presence of unwanted strangers within the vicinity of your house. At night, if ever your English bulldog wakes you up because of its numerous barking, try to check the windows, doors and other parts of your house to see if something is wrong before scolding your pet. If your pet is one of them, then it might be barking a lot because it needs a new diet plan. Experiencing a Health Condition that Gives it Discomfort Your English bulldog might be barking so much because of a health condition that makes it uncomfortable. One good example of this is eczema. When left untreated, this condition will not only make your English bulldog bark a lot but smell bad as well. There are simple ways that you can do to stop your English bulldog from barking so much. Doing the things that I will mention here will probably help you. Putting your pet on a leash and allowing it to see the outside will surely do the trick and will tire them out. For a frustrated English bulldog, help it to socialize with the newborn baby or newly adopted pet. When the weather is fine, lock the gates firmly and let your pet play outside. Even better try to put a miniature obstacle course on your front yard or backyard so that your English bulldog can exercise itself. Professional trainers know a few tricks that will help your pet fight its urge of creating so much noise. Aside from this, your pet will also get to socialize with other dogs. During the day, try to check if kids are teasing your dog or are attempting to trespass your property. After doing so, pet your English bulldog for a while so that it can sleep peacefully. If you happen to have a French Bulldog and need more tips, we have an article specifically for our Frenchie friends. Can English Bulldogs Howl? Almost all dog owners want their pets to howl. Personally, this is one skill that my English bulldog failed to master. Whenever it attempts to do this, my pet scratches its throat and ends up coughing. If you think about it, howling is one skill that almost all dogs inherently have. The chances of your pet learning how to do it depend on your efforts. So how do you teach your pet to howl? Simple, you can start howling yourself and hope that your English bulldog will imitate you. Another method is to play the sound of a howling wolf on your stereo and let your pet be part of the fun. You can view how this is done firsthand by clicking here. This is very different from the howl of huskies, german shepherds, etc. Final Thoughts Hearing your dog bark occasionally is fine. English bulldogs can howl too! However, their howl sounds very deep and is different from those made by wolves, German shepherds, huskies, and many others. Lastly, try the tips mentioned here to stop your English bulldog from barking so much. Post Views: 1, What do I do? Despite the endearingly gloomy mug that most English Bulldogs have, they are one of the most amiable of all breeds since they tend to assert dominance over other dogs. The fact about English Bulldogs is that they can live for years and they are short and have a fine coat which is easy to gloom and maintains. Although English Bulldogs do not bark a lot, sometimes they have a behavioral problem of barking without reason. We had moderate success with this inexpensive and easy to adopt clicker technique. One should identify why they are barking and train them in the correct way from the very beginning. The natural way for every dog to communicate is through barking and one should understand why your bulldog is barking. Pay attention to your dog to distinguish what kind of bark it is and stop giving your dog what it wants whenever it barks rather take some time to train your dog. This is the collar that we used to train our Bulldog, Lucy. If your dog is barking stop yelling rather than discipline it in the right way. English bulldogs always feed off your reaction and this may be the only way your pet knows how to behave. Yelling at your dog can make them get the wrong opinion of your command and think that there is a reason to bark. If at all you lose your patience and yell at your dog, the dog may prolong its barking since it has been commanded to expect any kind of negative response. The correct way to respond to your dog whenever they bark is to ignore or seek a better attention behavior and this could not only stop them from barking but also cure your pet from getting startled from situations. Stop waiting for a habit to form when your English bulldog begins to bark excessively this in the end will be a difficult task to stop it from excessive bark. When you notice that your pet barks excessively pick a command word and stick to it from the start. This is the easiest way to curb your pet for it will figure out the problem and discipline it appropriately and this will allow your household to have peace. How To Stop Your Bulldog Barking To Perceived Intruders Barking to intruders does not only require visual confirmation because some dogs engage in alarm barking because of simply hearing voices on the sidewalk. Alarm barking is any way of barking to perceived intruders and is normally accompanied by one to two inches of each bark. The following are ways to stop your bulldog from barking to perceived intruders; Teach your bulldog the quiet command. This training will require patience and consistency since it consumes time but when applied correctly it will make even the most territorial dogs behave better. When your bulldog starts engaging in alarm barking wait for three to four barks and then pay attention to it by distracting it from a perceived intruder. Then wait until it stops barking to the perceived intruder and once it stops say the word quiet in a low calm voice and repeat the process until it associates the word quiet itself. This will become a habit to your bulldog and once it does it more occasionally you can start giving a quiet command without showing your dog any treat. After it complies you can start giving your pet treat for more training sessions and it will finally learn to be quiet on command without a treat. Also, train your dog to apply the quiet command to real-world situations. This will make your dog learn the quiet command and be applying them to real scenarios. How To Control And Correct Bulldog Barking Problem It is important to praise and reward your English bulldog when it finally stops barking and congratulates its silence. This reward should be given as quickly as possible for this will vary the amount a dog must remain quiet without barking for no reason. The best way to train your bulldog from undesired behavior is by replacing the behavior with an alternative behavior that will allow your dog from realizing that it is good to engage in a more desirable behavior. Also once your bulldog stops barking it is important to continue training it for this will cover all aspects of attention-seeking barking. This will make your bulldog eventually learn to wait patiently regardless of whether it wants to play or eat. Conclusion The overall way to reduce your bulldog from barking a lot is by meeting its needs, for example, if your bulldog is hungry it will bark. No training or behavior techniques will satisfy the need for food or comfort. Always make sure your bulldog has plenty of food and water to drink and access it inside your home for comfort. Also, be exercising your bulldog and give medical attention. Bulldogs may sometimes bark because of being injured or sick and one should seek medical attention to it.

I have over 30 years of experience in training, importing, and breeding Belgian Malinois. Belgian Malinois and working dog breeding, in general, has become a huge commercial business and that resulted in Belgian Malinois with genetic defects, and temperament issues. It is extremely important to us to breed only health-tested Belgian Malinois with no genetic defects and excellent temperaments. I have studied genetics extensively including in my education. I received my Associate's degree in Criminal Justice and wanted to continue my education involving animals. My main goal as a Belgian Malinois breeder has always been health and temperament. Belgian Malinois breeding is a time-consuming expensive hobby and no one should ever breed Belgian Malinois for commercial purposes. I want to make a difference and breed very healthy and stable Belgian Malinois that will work but will also be great family companions. My main goal is always excellent health and a rock-solid temperament. Not all Malinois are the same! Different breeders are breeding dogs with certain characteristics. A Malinois with the correct genetics can be an excellent family companion. Malinois can vary greatly in temperament and conformation! The most common flaws in the temperament of Malinois are lack of confidence which can develop into fear aggression. Environmentally unsound, Dominance — leading to possessive behaviors, and territorial aggression. There are breeders that breed very aggressive and unpredictable dogs usual breeders with very little experience and knowledge , if you do not want such a dog, stay away from them. But a well-bred Malinois fits in society. Some are quite outgoing and some don't feel the need to run to everyone they meet to greet. The personality or temperament has a strong genetic influence but how the dog is raised is crucial to what it will grow up as. Belgian Malinois are intelligent, protective, playful, and energetic. They tend to make great family pets. Should a Belgian Malinois Mix take after this parent, you should be able to expect something similar. A Belgian Malinois is known for their intelligence and prized for their hardworking nature and protective instinct. Their high energy and playful personality means they tend to retain a puppy-like demeanor until they are about three years old. They get along well with children as well as other dogs and pets in the household as long as they are socialized with them. Because of their protective instinct, socialization and training early and often are particularly important. The other parent breed could introduce some potential traits that could affect temperament. So, you do want to ask the other breeder about them. You can also meet the mother dog in person to see what sort of temperament she is modeling for her pups. Belgian Malinois are moderately adaptable dogs. Their high energy tends to make them a better fit for homes with securely fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living as long as sufficient time is dedicated to giving them the exercise and training they need. As long as the other parent breed has similar adaptability traits, you should be able to expect the same in a Belgian Malinois Mix. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? A mixed-breed dog can sometimes win the genetic lottery and inherit none of the potential health conditions common to either parent breed. At the same time, they could inherit potential conditions common to one parent or both parent breeds. From the Belgian Malinois side, potential health concerns include hip dysplasia, thyroid disease , and progressive retinal atrophy. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to avoid passing issues on to puppies. Although the Belgian Malinois is highly intelligent and picks up on things easily, they are also high-energy dogs with an independent nature and a strong will. This means they are generally not a good fit for first-time dog owners. Puppy training classes are recommended, even for an experienced owner, as these classes often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. A Belgian Malinois Mix can inherit a coat similar to one parent breed or a coat that is a blend of both, so grooming requirements will be different depending on coat type. Should they inherit a Belgian Malinois coat, they will shed moderately year-round and heavier when seasons change. A weekly brushing and the occasional bath are usually sufficient for this coat. And, you will want to brush them more often during seasonal changes. When checking ears, you are making sure they are clean, dry, and free of debris or pests. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. But, many dog owners skip or overlook this, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. The Belgian Malinois is a high-energy, athletic dog breed. They need daily walks, playtime, and extra activity every day to stay happy and healthy. They also need a job to do and are good candidates for dog sports like flyball, agility, and more. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you can expect a Belgian Malinois Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. But, you will still need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog. A Belgian Malinois tends to be inches tall and pounds once fully-grown. The other parent breed could affect this, so you want to make sure you ask the breeder about it. You also want to pay attention to which breed is the mother as this will also affect the size of the puppies, especially in a mixed-breed dog. Belgian Malinois tend to live for years. The other parent breed may affect this slightly, but you can likely expect a similar life span in a Belgian Malinois Mix. Featured Belgian Malinois Mix Article. Life Span Did You Know? The Malinois originated in Belgium in the late s and was bred to guard and herd livestock. The Belgian Malinois is one of four different types of Belgian sheepdogs, including the Tervuren , Laekenois, and Groenendael. Of the Belgian sheepdogs, the Malinois is the most common and widely recognized. Although they were originally bred for herding, the Belgian Malinois excels as a military or police dog. The Belgian Malinois was used for military purposes as far back as World War I with many soldiers bringing their Malinois dogs home to the States after the war ended. Following that time, the AKC saw a large increase in registrations of this breed. Today, the Malinois is more commonly found as a working breed. Some facts about Belgian Malinois are that they are versatile working dogs and popular military dogs. These dogs are exceptional at finding explosives, narcotics, and tracking fugitives attempting to avoid apprehension. The Malinois is a protective and highly intelligent dog breed. As one of the most active dog breeds , the Malinois is a hardworking dog that may be serious when on task, but will also likely exhibit a puppy-like playfulness and energy until around the age of three. As long as they are properly socialized and trained, Belgian Malinois tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Because of their protective instinct, they will be initially wary of strangers. But, if they are well-socialized, they will tend to warm up once introduced. They tend to bark to alert, which can become a nuisance if you unintentionally encourage the behavior or do not train your dog to stop barking early on. The Belgian Malinois is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Although they can adapt to apartments if enough time is dedicated to daily exercise and mental stimulation, they are better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run. They do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat and are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Because they bond closely with their families, have a lot of energy, and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Belgian Malinois include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, and thyroid disease. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As one of the smartest dog breeds , the Belgian Malinois picks up on training quickly and is generally eager to please. However, they are also energetic, get bored easily, have a strong herding instinct, and can be strong-willed. First-time owners are encouraged to enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a trainer. Belgian Malinois have short, waterproof coats that will shed a little year-round and will shed heavier as seasons change. Brushing weekly or a few times a week and the occasional bath are usually enough to keep them comfortable and their coat looking great. Cutting nails once or twice a month is usually enough to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet as needed, is ideal dental care for dogs. Belgian Malinois are high-energy working dogs. They need a lot of daily activity and a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run are usually enough, but they will also usually be up for more activity if you are. These dogs are versatile and athletic. Once puppies finish growing and their bones are done developing, you can try a variety of activities with them. Playing frisbee , running, hiking, swimming, and more can all be fun activities to do with your Mal. Fully-grown Belgian Malinois usually stand inches tall and weigh between pounds. Belgian Malinois generally live for years on average. The Belgian Malinois is a world-renowned military service dog. A life-size bronze statue of a Belgian Malinois is featured in the memorial to military dogs in Fayetteville, North Carolina. There are also many dog movies featuring them, like the film Max, which features a great and heart-touching story about a former U. Marine Service Dog. Featured Belgian Malinois Article.

Due to their high energy and intelligence, they take lots of time and attention. They are also high maintenance in the grooming and exercise departments. Despite all the time they require, they are worth every minute. Their love and loyalty is unmatched and there is no greater companion than a faithful German shepherd dog by your side. Whether you own one or are planning to get one in the future, there are 17 items that you must have if you own a German shepherd. They are: 1. Good Quality Crate There are many good reasons to teach a dog to use a crate and very few excuses not to. Just a few reasons why crate training is a good idea include, they may be crated at the vet so being familiar with one will help them be calm; they may at some point in their life need to travel in a crate; during an emergency, they may need to be crated for their own safety; a crate is the perfect place to keep your dog when home repair is being done and other strangers are going in and out of the house; when recovering after illness or injury; it is a great training tool, a safe place for an unsupervised puppy. Strong Leash and Collar German shepherds are incredibly strong and very determined. The last thing you need is a collar or leash that will break at the wrong moment. Even better, owning several leashes and collar styles can come in handy. Some tools that can help are educational books, videos, clickers , tugs , treat bag , high value treats , crate, leash , and slip collar. Since German shepherds are so intelligent, there are many things you can teach them so these tools are just the tip of the iceberg. Your plans will depend upon the tools you need so these are just the basics that everyone can use. Chews and toys German shepherds have powerful jaws and they love to chew, especially puppies. There are some companies that make durable rubber dog chews such as Ruff Dawg and Westpaw that are great for German shepherds. Some of these can hold treats to help keep their interest. German shepherds also need lots of exercise and love to play. You can do both at once by playing games of fetch, Frisbee , tug , and more. Nothing will make your German shepherd happier than spending time playing with you and their favorite toy. Good Brush German shepherds shed and shed a lot. To reduce the amount of pet hair in your home, a good deshedding brush is great and a slicker brush will also help remove loose fur. Shampoo and conditioner Despite their shedding, German shepherds are relatively clean dogs unless they get into something that makes them dirty. However, they will need to be bathed so a good Ph balanced moisturizing shampoo and conditioner will help keep them clean and remove dead fur. Since they are also known for their sensitive skin and some have allergies, there are special shampoos that can he kept on hand to reduce itching, seasonal dry skin, or to heal skin irritations. Fenced Yard German shepherds need lots of exercise and a place to safely run and burn off some of their energy. They also have a high prey drive and many love to chase small animals and such so a fenced yard will also help keep them safe should they encounter wildlife or see neighborhood animals. Healthy Food Notorious for their sensitive digestive systems, German shepherds do best on a high-quality diet formulated for large breed dogs and puppies. Storage container for food To help keep food fresh and preserve nutrients, an airtight storage container is perfect. They make them large enough to store an entire bag of food, which is a huge plus. But they are also yummy and fun and like all dogs, shepherds love them. Food and water dishes Depending on the dog, the best food and water dishes are either stainless steel or ceramic. If your dog likes to dig in their water, a heavy bottomed bowl can help reduce spills. If your dog eats too fasts and gulps their food, a slow feeder can help slow them down and make mealtimes more enjoyable. Some bottles have a built-in dish that the water squeezes into so they are super convenient. Our favorite is a bowl with a leak-proof lid for the car that also helps keep the water cool. Dog poop bags Another must for going out with your dog is a supply of dog poop bags. There are containers you can attach to their leash or you can just keep a supply in the car and put one in your pocket. Either way, to avoid embarrassment, they are a great to have on hand. Dog bed Since German shepherds are over 50 pounds when grown, they are considered large dogs. They love a good dog bed that is comfy but also supports their back and joints. Even if they sleep in your bed, their own dog bed is a great idea. Nail clippers Since German shepherds are so active, their nails should be kept trimmed unless they wear them down themselves. Even if you have someone else trim their nails, a good quality nail clipper is good to have on hand in case you need to trim or cut a nail. If you prefer, a nail grinder tool can be used. This is not a complete list but things to consider putting in your kit include the phone number for animal poison control, blood stop powder , bandages, ace bandage, Gas X and Benedryl, Zymox Otic Ear Treatment, etc. Tags and microchip One of the most important things you can do for your dog is to keep their Identification tags and microchip information up-to-date. With no way to reunite them with their family, they are lucky if they are rescued but many dogs are euthanized simply due to overcrowding or they are injured before arriving at the shelter. To protect your dog from becoming a statistic, always keep their ID on them and your contact information current. No one thinks their dog will be the one to get lost but, sadly, it happens all the time. We hope you find this list helpful. As always, please feel free to share with your friends. High-energy, intelligent, good-looking and incredibly loyal, German Shepherd dogs or GSDs excel at almost anything that they are trained to do. Originally bred for herding and military assistance, they are now a household favourite and a top choice for K-9 units, search and rescue operations and even films. A German Shepherd dog is usually well-built with a square head, long muzzle, slightly angled legs, erect ears and long bushy tail. Their coats have a distinct, rich colour such as black, tan, a combination of both or even shades of red. You might think that German Shepherds usually keep to themselves or take time to befriend strangers, which makes them seem aloof or formidable. So, whether you have a GSD in your home or are planning to welcome one, here are all the German Shepherd essentials to tick off your checklist. You can opt for a meaty diet which also includes vegetables and nutrients that are formulated to meet their unique nutritional needs. Soaking kibble in water helps to soften it and makes it easier for pups to eat. Remember that pups who are younger than three and a half months old should be started off with puppy starter varieties from Royal Canin or Arden Grange. Always remember to feed your German Shepherd puppy or dog the appropriate quantities and choose a dog bowl accordingly, so as not to underfeed or overfeed them. Refer to the food packaging or consult your vet, before introducing any new dog treats or making any dietary changes. Each one of the items is made by hand, with love. Browse through our site and we are sure you will find the perfect custom leather dog collar, leash, harness or muzzle for your German Shepherd companion. If not, contact us and we can help you to find something truly special and unique for your dearest pet! German Shepherd Dogs are unique creatures who are one of the most easily recognised breeds in the world. Muscular by their appearance, alert with a noble and aloof attitude and smart by nature, they are favourite pets for plenty of families in the world. The dogs are agile, well balanced and carry themselves with pride. Their coats come in a range of colours. Due to our wide range of accessories and colors available black, brown, tan, white, pink , you can choose the most appropriate for your canine. The German Shepherd makes the best friends with the handler developing a very close bond with him. This dog is eager to learn and very responsive to training. The young pups, puppies and adult German Shepherds need some hours of daily entertaining after exercising. With our attractive toys and bite tugs, you can combine these 2 activities in one. Grooming should be done several times a week, with a vigorous brushing to remove any dead or loose hairs. If it is a longhaired German Shepherd dog, combing will also be necessary. Buy comfy brushes for your darling doggie! German Shepherd Collars Dog Collars impress with their variety. Collars can be used for helping to control your dog, can be personalised for identification and have also become popular as pet fashion accessories. Dog collars are commonly paired with a lead and used for dog walking. A dog collar can also be used for attaching ID tags and medical information too. Nappa Padded Leather Dog Collar with Braids Durable, tough and functional, these handcrafted dog collars have timeless appeal. Their classic, extraordinary or elegant look features durable metal buckle with D-ring. These qualities make collars ideal for everyday use. Metal Collars are produced by sophisticated techniques, consistent quality control, superb craftsmanship and the highest quality raw materials. Herm Sprenger German chain products are superior by no means. Will not tarnish, rust or break. The harness is a great tool to help the dog owner to take control over his dog in a kind and humane way. Nylon Dog Harness with Patches Harnesses for large dogs prevent your dog from pulling and reduce the risk of neck injuries. FDT harness spreads the load around the chest instead of concentrating it around the neck. This is very comfortable and safe for little pets. So you can choose appropriate gear for even a puppy or small dog. A harness, chosen and fitted properly, can be safer than a collar for your dog to wear when being walked. German Shepherd Muzzles Dog muzzles are considered a very helpful aid to a dog training program or just daily walking. When your German Shepherd is muzzled, it is safe to walk with him everywhere. Visiting public places, special occasions or planned vet visit will become a pleasure for both of you. Leather, metal or nylon, FDT muzzles are different and respond to many purposes. Special wire cages allow your pet drinking and eating. Basket muzzles provide free barking and panting but still prevent biting. So do leather mesh muzzles. Padded on Nose Leather Dog Muzzle If you wish to stop your canine barking, there is a nice choice of anti-barking gear. If you are a fan of exclusive accessories, here are studded dog muzzles. The common features of these tools are their strength, reliability, durability, comfort and high quality. German Shepherd Leads After purchasing a perfect leather dog collar, harness or muzzle, you will definitely need a leash to go with it. And not just an ordinary leash you can buy at our store for your German Shepherd, but exclusive handcrafted accessories. There are different types of leashes to choose from: plain, handcrafted, braided leather and nylon. Leather leashes come in black, brown and tan. Nylon are only black. Our leashes are available in different lengths and different widths - you are sure to find a leash that suits you and your dog! Genuine leather is super soft from the start and extremely durable. To pamper your German Shepherd, there is a nice opportunity for you. The best dog treats , safe and tasty; cool pet toys and bite dog tugs, great as for training as for playing; different kennel accessories to take care of your canine every day and many other interesting goods made with the dog in mind! Buy Now Dog Tshirts Just like you get yourself clothes, having a fur baby will make you want to spoil it similarly. It will look the cutest! It is made from a mix of cotton and polyester that makes it breathable and feels soft to the skin. When you go out for walks, T-shirts safeguard against ticks and fleas. Just like our clothes, it is easily washable as well, so why not add another wardrobe in your house that is especially for your dog. Dogs generally do need out once or twice a day. Rainy days can be gloomy and make your dog feel uncomfortable. But having a raincoat can save you from the gloom. Reflective Raincoats Reflective Raincoats are made to reflect so that vehicles driving around do not miss out on a furry friend and drive accordingly. PU material is used to make it waterproof. The coat comes with adjustable straps to make it fit for your dog. Not very sure if your german shepherd would like it, but then what option do you have when it pours down! Dog Boots Dog boots serve many purposes. Extremely cold surfaces can cause ice burns on the paws. If you have noticed your dog licking its paw when outside during winters, it may be feeling cold. Moreover, dog booties do make them look more fashionable, do they not? This also reduces your cleaning chores, you can leave the boots outside and the dog now enters the house with clean paws. They are made up of silicone and helps to prevent any kind of slipping. These shoes are made of soft fabric and feel livable. Note: German shepherds grow quickly. Always remember to take paw measurements before purchasing and making your dog wear boots. Smaller sized boots will give discomfort and twinge while larger ones might cause them to fall. Bow Ties and Bandanas These accomplices are purely for fashionable purposes. Tiny bow ties look the absolute best when you take your furry friend along with you. Waago Bandanas Waago Bandanas has a vanity of pretty bandanas that would look lovely on your dog. You can find all kinds of prints and shades as per choice. Waago Bow Ties The same goes for Waago Bow Ties , organza printed bow ties by the brand will make your intimidating shepherd look like a softie! You may place it for identification purposes and add a name tag. Collars also have information about the owner in case the dog runs away or gets lost. Over time, collars have also become a testimony of fashion. There is no limit to the kinds and colours in which collars are available. You can even get them custom-made as per your preference. Some dog collars that are worth the money: 1. Pseudo-Leather Pet Collar If you do not want the collar to be much visible, you may go for this pseudo-leather collar. The collar is made of black PU material and hence merges with the fur. Crates and Carriers Crates might not seem to be a good thing to get for your dog, but believe us when we say that crate training is very advantageous to the dog. Besides, dogs are animals and they naturally have denning instincts. So it is highly possible that your pup might love it. Additionally, a crate-trained dog knows compliance and is more confident about its actions. Keeping this in mind, you may want to have one for your dog as well. Coloured Metallic Cage comes with anti-slip features and plastic sliding bottoms. It is easily storable as it can be folded into a smaller size. Furthermore, it is properly ventilated so that your dog feels comfortable. Due to this particular likelihood, you will think of spending bucks on a soft and cosy dog bed only to find your dog snoozing at the weirdest places. Nevertheless, you would do your part. A high-grade polyester bed with overstuffed bolsters around the perimeter gives the softest headrest. Does it not double the benefit? Water and Food Dispenser We have already enlightened you with the usefulness of slow eating and small portions to feed your dog. Water and Food Dispenser helps you in the same. There is a base attached beneath the container that can hold up to 2 kg of food. The bottle has a capacity of mL. Benefits: Prevents bloating because it cannot store much food so that your dog cannot overeat. The material of the bottle is antibacterial and silicone. This makes it safe and unbreakable. The dispenser is dripless until you choose to pour some. Note: This small-sized product is suitable for small sizes. Portable Water Bottle. You can take an idea about this bottle from its name itself. Staying hydrated is extremely critical for your dog during physical activity. Dehydration can lead to vomiting, dry nose, severe muscle damage and deter cell growth. Having water on standby at all times can prevent such situations. Aqua Dog Portable Water Bottle: This bottle comes with a top that doubles as a small container from which your dog can drink. Hassle-free handling, just squeeze the bottle and the water gets collected. If your dog leaves a little amount of water, you may let it flow back in the bottle via a valve. This prevents wastage. FAQs 1. Are German shepherds safe around children? Even though german shepherds may seem intimidating, they make the best family dogs, especially around children. This breed is known to obey and follow instructions very sincerely. They are loyal as well as very protective given that they have evolved from wolves. Is it easy to train a German Shepherd? Training any kind of dog can be easy as well as tough depending on the way and methods that you use. Fortunately, german shepherds are very thoughtful and devoted. They catch up on tricks pretty quickly and retain them. These dogs have been used as rescue and army dogs. Resultantly, they are outstanding at discerning commands. You have your answer there, german shepherds are a pleasure to train! Final Thoughts The list is honestly inexhaustible! However, your dog may take some time to adjust to such things. The particular reason for this occurrence is that dogs are wild animals. They do not fancy luxuries. So, if you have been patient and keen enough to reach the end of this blog, we know that you love your dog to death! Fortunately for you, your german shepherd loves you more and you will come to see it. Related Blog.

When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Well-bred Labradors are relatively low maintenance, fit and healthy dogs. But your Labradors continuing health and well-being does depend entirely on you. A nutritious diet, regular exercise, grooming, preventive measures and regular visits to the vet are the real key to maintaining a high level of wellness and good health. All these actions are your responsibility and solely under your control. Daily routines will be diet control, exercise and physical inspections. Weekly routines will be grooming, ears, eyes, teeth and nail care. Quarterly routines could be shared between visits to the vet, a canine dentist and bathing. And the annual routine will be vaccinations. Just remember that prevention is always better than cure, so doing your best to prevent any illness and catching problems at the earliest possible stage is the goal to aim for. The following are all areas where you only need a little knowledge to effectively take care of your Labrador well. And if you cannot dedicate this time and effort, then in the nicest possible way, you might be better suited to a pet with less demanding care requirements such as goldfish. Making Safe Your Home and Garden Labradors are a lively and inquisitive breed, especially during their first three years so you need to keep dangerous household items out of their reach. Conceal electrical wiring…we all know of their infamous love for chewing. Sharp teeth and electricity do not mix! A Labrador can easily choke on wrappings or trash that may be swallowed along with edible scraps. Labs are smart and opening cupboards and drawers soon becomes easy for them. Be mindful of the toxicity of certain plants — Over plants have been identified as toxic to dogs , so be sure to research any plant before bringing it into your home. Fence of any ponds or pools in your yard. These are just a few points to consider around your home and garden, there are many more. Just try to put yourself in your Labradors shoes and take a good look at his environment as he would see it. Try to see how he could get into trouble and take measures to prevent it. Click here for a more detailed guide on puppy-proofing your home and garden. Brushing also helps to shake loose dirt out of and spread the natural oils throughout their coat for that desirable, healthy glossy look we know and love. Related article: The Best vacuums for removing pet hair from your home. Frequent baths will strip their oils, leaving them prone to wet and cold in winter, causing dry skin and making their coat look dull and not shiny. Keeping Nails Trim Most Labradors will need a nail trim every 2 to 3 months, although some may never need it. Regularly walking your dog on hard ground, especially sidewalks and roads, will have a natural filing effect and keep your dogs claws in order. This can make them sore and bleed. Ear Care What with a Labradors slightly drooping ears and their love of water, the inside of their ears can sometimes retain too much moisture, causing bacteria to build up and infections to form. I shall be writing an article on this very soon. Just some of the problems a Labrador may have with its teeth are gum disease, loose teeth, cracked or broken teeth, root abscesses and a build up of tartar. These can be very uncomfortable for your dog and can lead to further problems if neglected. Therefore, you need to inspect their teeth regularly, take measures to clean their teeth and even visit a professional canine dentist every 6 months or annually for a thorough check up and any necessary treatments. Treat their teeth like you would your own. Dealing with Parasites Controlling fleas, ticks and other parasites is essential for keeping your Labrador healthy. Immediate problems include extreme irritation and skin sores, but extreme infestations can lead to more dangerous problems including Lyme disease and tape worms. If you stick to a regular grooming schedule as you should! Simply brush your hand against the lie of your Labradors fur and watch for any small moving dots and check for any clearly visible ticks. There are many safe and effective over-the-counter flea control products , many of which contain formulations to prevent ticks at the same time. Finally, depending on where you live in the world, you may need to put your Labrador on medication for heartworm. Where mosquitoes are a problem, they can pass on heartworm and this can be fatal. Even the medicine for heartworm makes your dog very ill so prevention is definitely better than cure! Diseases such as distemper, rabies, hepatitis and parvoviros to name just a few. Your puppy will have had his first shots at five or six weeks before you got to take him home, and he will need a few further shots over a period of up to 18 weeks. A rabies shot usually follows at 6 months of age or so. After this, your adult Labrador will need just a single booster each year to stay protected. For many facts on vaccinations and the schedule you should follow when vaccinating your puppy, please click here. Dogs need a balance of vitamins, minerals, fats and proteins different to that of a human and feeding them on human leftovers can lead to malnutrition, as can a diet based on cheap filler packed dog food. You should perform a little research to find and use a recognized healthy brand of dog food that will cater to your Labradors needs. To help with this, please see our articles that list 4 of the best foods for Labrador puppies opens in new window or the best dog foods for adult Labradors opens in new window …yours really will thrive on these handpicked, quality foods! Additionally, the best thing you can do is set up a feeding schedule for your dog, twice per day being the recommended, and be mindful of any extra treats. Your Lab should always be well fed but not over-fed. I shall discuss this more in a later article. An Important Note On Drastic Changes In Eating And Drinking Habits If your dog is off their food, drinks way too much or way too little for a period of time more than 36 hours, you should call your vet as this is almost surely a sign of an underlying problem. They are voracious eaters and will eat just because they can, not because they need it. Excess weight can lead to all sorts of issues including arthritis and heart problems. To prevent this, control their diet and give them plenty of exercise for them to burn off those calories. They really do need very little exercise of just a few short minutes a couple of times per day. Too much exercise for a puppy can cause skeletal formation issues and plays a large part in joint problems. Take it easy until your puppy is at least a year old. Bedding and Shelter A Labrador should always have a soft surface to lay upon. To prevent this you should get your Lab a large sized dog bed or line a crate to offer a soft and comfortable place to rest. If your Lab spends any amount of time outside, you must provide shelter to offer an escape from the sun in summer, and preferably the shelter should have a raised floor so the wet and cold is kept away in winter. If your Lab puppy gets used to sleeping in a bed of yours or your children, it will be a hard habit to break and will more than likely end in separation anxiety and night-time whining. You want your Labrador to be comfortable alone for periods of time and should start forming this habit ASAP. Training The importance of training your Labrador cannot be overstated. A dog is a dog and not a human. You need to teach your dog how to behave and what your instructions are asking them to do. Before a puppy can become a trusted, well-behaved dog they have a lot of learning to do…and you a lot of teaching! To learn from the written word, I am part way through building the ultimate resource in the form of this site. Routines for feeding, exercise, grooming and visits to the vet are all easily managed with a little knowledge and by planning a schedule in advance and sticking to it. Spending quality time with your Lab is also key, especially regular grooming sessions. You should also attempt to learn your dogs normal living habits, how much he eats, drinks and sleeps. Anything To Add? As always, if you have any questions, would like to offer feedback, suggestions or further advice on the subject, please do so in the comments section below. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Fourth meal 5 pm You should follow this type of feeding schedule until your Lab puppy is 14 weeks old, after which you can adopt a two meal per day plan. However, keep in mind that Labs are especially prone to overeating and obesity, so if you use treats, ensure you give them sparingly. In fact, a study in the UK listed Labrador Retrievers among the eight breeds most prone to being overweight. So your food-loving Lab puppy requires a bit of control. One way to keep them from overeating treats is to portion out their food for the day and use that as their reward. In most cases, the puppy will respond just as enthusiastically to kibble. Place a bowl of water in a location accessible to your puppy and supervise him to ensure he drinks enough but not too much. Puppies at this age should drink between half and one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. So if your eight-week-old Lab is 12 lbs 5. This is an essential part of puppy care. As mentioned, if you get your puppy from a reliable breeder which should always be the case , the pup should have already started with his vaccinations, and the breeder should provide the vaccination records. Then, make an appointment with the vet for any vaccination follow-up. Also, ensure your pup stays on worm preventative medication as puppies are more prone than adult dogs to worm infection. Sometimes puppies are also born with certain types of worms from an infected mother, especially roundworms and hookworms, where mother-to-puppy transmission is a significant mode of spreading. Be especially sure that your Lab puppy gets the heartworm vaccination. Heartworm is a dangerous and potentially fatal disease, and once your dog is infected, the cure is expensive and extremely harsh on your dog. A trained dog will learn how to behave in and outside the home and around other humans and pets. I have a full beginner guide on how to train an 8 week old Labrador puppy , but in a nutshell, there are three training areas you should focus on in terms of pet training: housebreaking, obedience, and socialization. Housebreak Your 8-Week-Old Labrador Puppy Housebreaking means training your puppy to eliminate outdoors or at a designated location inside the home instead of doing it anywhere and at any time. Puppies need frequent bathroom breaks because their system is not yet mature enough to hold it for long. Luckily you can take advantage of that to teach your dog to always use the same spot. Pay attention to the signs your puppy gives when they need to ease themselves, like circling, whining, or sniffing their groin. Puppies naturally need to eliminate at these times: First thing after waking up in the morning. Last thing before retiring at night. After every meal. After drinking plenty of water. Upon waking up from a nap. During or after play or exercise. When they wake up during the night. Their brain, at this point, is like a sponge that will easily absorb new info. Also, teaching these commands early will make living with you easier for your dog as he will know what is expected of him. Teach your Lab puppy to sit, lay down, stay, leave, and other basic commands that are foundational for more advanced training later. Remember to use only positive reinforcement training approaches and reward your puppy with verbal praise, positive gesture cues, and treats. Exposure to these realities will help your Lab puppy adjust fast and nurture proper social behavior. In addition, exposure will preempt signs of poor puppy socialization, like aggression and fear around people and other animals. In general, your eight-week-old Labrador puppy should have two minute sessions of exercise daily. In addition, keep the following in mind: Keep exercise sessions short in the beginning and allow your puppy to adapt gradually. Playtime counts as exercise, so be careful not to over-exercise your Lab puppy. This is the harness I use. Allow your pup spontaneous rest moments between play. When exercising your puppy , avoid taking him for walks during the coldest or hottest times of the day. There are several ways to ensure your eight-week-old Labrador puppy is always safe, including ample supervision and choosing the right kind of toy. They might also try to get away on an exploratory walk if the door is left open. To avoid these dangers, puppy-proofing your home before getting your eight-week-old Lab puppy is vital. Read more here, What Foods are Poisonous to Labradors? Unplug power cords and put them away when not in use, as your puppy could try chewing on them. Remember that your puppy is young and still learning. It is also a legal requirement in some countries, such as the UK, and it may be required when traveling. While name tags are an excellent way to identify a dog, they can be easily removed or get lost, which means you are better off microchipping your Lab puppy, or even better, do both. Choose Safe Play Toys for Your 8-Week-Old Labrador Puppy Like us, eight-week-old puppies still have their baby teeth which they gradually lose to make room for their adult teeth. So, expect a lot of chewing and nipping during this time. Like humans, teething can be uncomfortable, and chewing is their only way to relieve some of that pain. To that end, ensure your Lab puppy has the right chewing toys to avoid damaging teeth or accidentally swallowing toy pieces. This toy is great for teething pups, doubles as a fetch toy, and is also a treat-dispensing toy where you can stuff it with peanut butter or other goodies. If proper toys are not provided, your Lab puppy will chew any available object in the house, such as table legs, shoes, remotes, or your hands. As such, they need proper resources for resting and sleeping. That includes the time to do so and a place where they will feel safe in. This synthetic dog bed has an ultra-soft feel and provides maximum comfort for your Lab. You can use it in the crate or as a stand-alone bed, and it comes in a few different styles and sizes. I like this bed due to its 3. Ensure the bed is in a location with no draft and where your puppy does not get any disturbance when resting. If you put your puppy straight into the crate without helping them adjust, it may react poorly. When buying a kennel, the best approach is to buy one that your pup can use as an adult dog, which for a Lab would be around 42 inches .Just be sure to get a crate with dividers so you can make the space smaller for your puppy. An 8-week-old Lab puppy can only walk for approximately minutes at a time. In most cases, young puppies will not walk but rather jump around and play. Still, keep in mind that they do not need long exercise sessions. Instead, keep playtimes short and allow for lots of rest. Remember that puppies should only walk about five minutes for every month of age, twice a day. At three months, you can stretch it to 15 minutes. Overwalking your Lab puppy can cause joint and bone issues and should be avoided. As such, a dog from a larger breed will need more food as a puppy than a smaller breed. An 8-week-old Lab puppy should be fed three to four meals of no more than cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy will depend on his size and weight. For example, if your puppy is between lbs 4. These measurements can vary with each dog food product, as different manufacturers have varying ingredients, so ensure you check the packaging first. Eight week old Lab puppies sleep for approximately 18 to 20 hours a day. An 8 week old Lab should pee as soon as they wake up, after eating and drinking, after waking up from a nap, during or after a session of play or exercise, just before going to bed at night, and when they awake during the night. They help you find the information you need right now. You might also want to check out our sections on Labrador Puppy Training. Do let us know what you would like to see added to the site. We are always happy to have your comments and suggestions. When To Collect Your Puppy We highly recommend that puppies are not removed from their breeder until they are 8 weeks old. There are lots of good reasons for this. It helps puppies develop good bite moderation skills before they are adopted into a family, ensures that they are ready to adapt quickly to their new life. And it helps to reduce the sad numbers of puppies bred for a quick profit. Puppies sold under seven weeks old often have health problems and need special care, and extra veterinary attention. Check out the following articles for further information: When can puppies leave their mother Your first puppy Your first puppy is a huge adventure. You have so much fun ahead. Labradors are generally very friendly dogs, but they can also be very distractible. So do start daily training games, using plenty of food. You can get regular training tips from Pippa by email, using the box below. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. Labrador Puppies Labrador puppies are a ball of fun. They are playful, cute, and always enjoy the company of children and adults. Labradors are not demanding dogs. They make ideal pets that are are amazing companion dogs that are always ready to follow their owner everywhere. If you are bringing a labrador puppy home this article is for you. Where do labradors originate from? The labrador breed of dog is originally from Newfoundland. They were later bred in the UK as hunting gun dogs. They are bred for their ability to retrieve, their friendly nature, and their ability to dominate field trials. A fully grown labrador is a large dog that lives for 12 to 13 years. Labradors are heavy dogs and weigh 80 pounds when fully grown. Female labradors weigh about 20 kilos less. Labradors come in three main colors I. Labradors have thick tails that are flat at the base and tapering at the edge. Labradors have a short dense coat. In this article, we will prepare you for when you bring a labrador puppy home. Nutritional needs and how to feed a labrador Labradors have a varying diet depending on the age of the puppy. At 2 to 6 months Labrador puppies are able to eat started dry food. Choose a brand of puppy food that is rich in the nutrition that puppies need. At months your dog will start to eat like an adult. You can also feed your dog thin strips of raw red meat or cooked chicken boneless with veggies. What alternative food can you feed your puppy other than kibble? There are a number of types of healthy dog food that you can feed your dog other than kibble. These foods can be meats, veg, and cooked food. Cooked chicken with the bones removed is healthy and tasty food for dogs. Dogs love the taste of eggs and it makes an ideal puppy food. Feed your dogs scrambled as they are rich in protein and are easy to digest for your puppy. Oatmeal for dogs is rich in fiber and helps your dog have a regular bowel movement. What are the concerns of feeding a puppy raw food? Raw food can be a risky proposition when feeding your dogs. Raw foods may contain bacteria that are a health risk to both humans and your puppy. An unbalanced diet of raw food can affect the health of your dog. It is for this reason that vets recommend kibble or feeding your dog cooked meats like chicken. How to choose the right food for your dog The correct food for your puppy should take up all its nutritional needs and ensure the health of your pet. Look out for good quality food that has the nutritional benefits for your dog printed on it. Such food should also contain proteins and minerals. Feeding your puppy in his crate The crate is the home for your puppy in the first few months of its life. Your puppy plays and grows older in its crate. Feeding your puppy in its crate increases its attachment to its living space. When feeding your puppy in its crate ensure that you have put the food all the way to the back of the crate. Choosing the proper food and water bowls Choose a food and water bowl for your puppy that is heavy and does not move around. Ensure that your puppy has separate bowls for food and water. Plastic bowls are an inexpensive option for your puppy bowl. Stainless steel bowls are also good as they do not break and are easy to rinse. Keeping your puppy at the proper weight Labrador puppies love to eat and for this reason, may become overweight quite easily. Ensure that you feed your puppy only twice a day with nutritious meals that are rich in all the various nutrients. Do not overfeed your puppy. A puppy needs only grams of food per sitting. Do not feed your puppy if it is asking for food between meals. Labrador puppies are known to be voracious eaters. Washing Your Labrador retriever Labrador puppies do not need a bath very often as they may fall sick. It is ideal to wash your puppy only once every 2 months. Use a mild dog shampoo when washing your puppy. So not use human shampoo as this may dry the skin of your puppy. A puppy has natural oils in its coat and this gets washed away when you shampoo your puppy. So, be aware of the specific bathing needs of your puppy. It protects its health and lets it grow up to be a big and strong dog. Taking care of a Labrador so that he is happy Labradors are jolly dogs that often wag their tail and like to be happy. In order to keep your labrador dog happy ensure that it gets a lot of fresh air and exercise. Taking care of Labrador so that he is happy Take your dog out for a walk once a day for at least an hour. You can play fetch with your puppy or have it follow you around. You can also teach your dog how to respond to its name and come when called. Buy your pet fun toys to play with when at home or outside. Labrador puppies love toys that they can play with. Praise your puppy often and give it a lot of love and attention. Take your puppy for walks and carry puppy snacks with you for when your puppy does a good deed. Remember, lots of love creates a happy labrador. Vaccinations It is extremely important to vaccinate your puppy after bringing her home from the pet store. There are a number of illnesses that may affect your dog if you do not vaccinate it on time. The vaccinations that your dog will need to prepare its health are as follows: Canine Parvovirus. Canine Distemper. The ideal weight for a labrador puppy at 3 months is 25 lbs and at 6 months that weight will be 50 Lbs. On average a Labrador puppy will gain two pounds of each week of weight. If your puppy is picking up weight to fast try and cut down its below meals snack and ensure that you are feeding your dog the ideal amount of food. Daily Exercise A puppy that has daily exercise is a happy puppy. Your puppy should exercise at least once a day with a walk that is nearly an hour long. Having not enough exercise may cause your dog health issues like joint problems, weight gain, and other health issues. Exercising your dog not just keeps it healthy but also helps you develop a bond with your pet. Training your labrador puppy Owing to the size of the labrador breed training your dog later in life can be daunting as they are large and excitable dogs. Instead start training your dog at an early age. You can start training your dog from 6 to 12 weeks old. Training sessions should be fun. You can start toilet training your dog at this age. You can also start with simple commands such as getting your dog to follow when you call it and teaching your dogs commands such as sit and fetch. Reward behavior that you want to encourage in your dog. Dealing with parasites No matter how much you take care of your dog it may get parasites like fleas, ticks, and tapeworms. If this is the case you should give your dog a bath using medicated shampoos to care for your dog. You can also give your dog a deworming pill to get rid of any internal parasites. Visit a vet at least once every two months. Take him or her to the vet immediately so that it may get the proper medical care it needs. Although I am not a veterinarian myself, I have been a lab owner for 11 years and been in the pet food industry for the last 6 years. However, if this is not the case for your pupper, no need to worry. Be sure not to feed normal cerelac or cow milk as that will result in loose motion as well as stunted growth. At this tender age, you need to feed your lab pup via feeding bottle like you would feed a human baby of age 2 months. Milk is the only food apart from purified water which your dog is gonna need till 1. After this age, till 3 months you have two options. You can either continue with milk or look at starter food options like Royal Canin Maxi starter , Drools starter, Farmina Puppy Starter, Canine Creek Starter , Orijen puppy and plenty of other brands which are available in the market. The kibble for starter food is small and most probably, your puppy will be able to chew it. Certain dry food can be extremely hard to chew, so depending on the toughness of the kibble you might have to break i. Puppies of age 1. You should be following this diet of starter food till 3 months age at least. Also, make sure you are vaccinating as well as deworming your pup at the right intervals. So, a proper nutritious diet is essential to achieve good growth. You can either go for Royal Canin Maxi Junior or Royal Canin Labrador Junior or puppy variants of other brands like drools, canine creek, Orijen Puppy and Junior Recommended , Acana large breed puppy, pedigree not recommended at this age. If you are giving a good diet like Royal Canin, farmina or even home-made food, growth should be good. For those who can extend their budget, you can go for something even more premium like Acana, Orijen, Arden Grange and the likes. No need to add additional supplements. If you are feeding home-made food like boiled chicken which itself is a very good food option, consider adding some fish oils like Beaphar Salmon Oil. However, a good diet is recommended to ensure a good life span above 12 years and muscle development. Homemade food can be a healthy option as well. Feeding guide amount to feed in grams depends on dog weight and varies from brand to brand. You will find the recommended portion for your brand based on the calories it carries on the packet you will buy. At other times, you can give chews or treats but whole meal should be fed not more than twice a day. Do not keep food available in front of the dog except during his eating time. However, you can keep water available in a bowl all the time. Sticking to schedule regularly is recommended. Wait, till now we have been speaking about commercial dry food. Yes, this happens to many dogs. While some dogs like pugs are voracious eaters, labs or goldens can be extremely choosy. They will eat whatever liquid you put in the feeding bottle at this age. However, once puppies mature and learn to eat themselves, they may not like dry food, rarely touch it. In these cases, the best option is to first add a home-made additive with the dry food. You may add many things dog like in small quantities of chicken stalk, chicken pieces boneless for puppies , curd, egg and others to the dry food. Changing or trying out another brand helps as well. I have seen many dogs who hate Drools but like Canine Creek although they are manufactured by same company. Every dog has a mind of his own. Most common diseases of Indian bred dogs like canine hyp dysplasia, ear infections, bent hind legs can happen to any dog. Take your dog to a registered veterinary practitioner in case such situations arise. Lack of appetite is also observed during this age at times. For not-so-severe cases, you may administer Himalaya Liv52 syrup or tabs or other appetite stimulants of various brands twice a day for days. In case, your dog has gastrointestinal disorders, referring to a prescription diet under the guidance of a veterinarian can be immensely helpful. This entry was posted in Pet Blog. Bookmark the permalink.

It is an intelligent dog breed that is easily trainable, and possesses a gentle temperament but can also be quite energetic in nature. And that is what this article is for. In this article, we highlight a list of some of the best Bernedoodle breeders residing in Pennsylvania. These are highly reputable breeders that truly care for the well-being of the breed and are known for producing high-quality Bernedoodle puppies for numerous families in the state and the entire country. So do ensure you read on till the end for my personal pick. Their name pretty much sells them already. They produce Bernedoodles that are quite lovely, loyal, and beautiful. The puppies are of course healthy and contain a high intelligence level that makes them trainable. This means they could be bred to become service dogs or therapy dogs to help people living with PTSD. All their puppies are f1b generation puppies so they are born with hypoallergenic coats and still maintain their hybrid vigor, and they breed puppies of both medium and mini sizes. These dogs each come from highly respectable lineages that are AKC registered and are even championed dogs with impressive pedigrees to show for it. The sires and dams are carefully selected after much research would have been done. They are further tested for genetic defects and each has their OFA and CERF certifications to show they have well-functioning hips, elbows, eyes, and hearts. Every Bernedoodle puppy is raised in a family home in New Holland Pennsylvania, and they have been doing this for over 25 years, so they definitely do know what they are doing. The puppies are made to sleep in warm areas alongside members of the family. They are socialized as they are introduced to both human and non-human elements to help them get accustomed to new environments and situations. Each puppy is also potty and crate trained. All puppies from Bernedoodles of Love come with a written health guarantee free from genetic health issues, They are examined and vet checked by a licensed vet and each has their deworming and vaccination records updated. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Pennside Pennsylvania and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! Life Span Did You Know? They tend to be affectionate and loving dogs that make great family pets. They are even known to make great therapy dogs! Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other canine registries. One of the facts about Bernedoodles is that they are true companion dogs. They are cuddly companions that love nothing more than being with their favorite humans. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, Mini Bernedoodles tend to get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Miniature Bernedoodles are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in larger homes as well as apartments. They are sensitive to heat and extreme cold, but do well in most climates. Because they bond so closely with their families and thrive on attention, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time and can develop separation anxiety if you do not work with them early on. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can ask about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Mini Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. This makes them a highly trainable dog that is a good fit for owners of all experience levels. They can become stubborn if training is not consistent or clear. Although their coat tends to be low-shedding and will range from straight to wavy or curly, the Mini Bernedoodle coat requires some maintenance. Daily brushing is recommended to remove tangles and prevent mats. Professional grooming is recommended every weeks. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful cleanings as needed help to prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, Mini Bernedoodles are more prone to developing gum disease. Good dental care for dogs early and consistently throughout their life can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Daily tooth brushing, plus cleanings at the vet as needed, is ideal. Although Mini Bernedoodles will be playful and have bursts of energy while playing, they are not high-energy dogs. They tend to sit in a more moderate range. Daily walks plus some playtime throughout the day are usually enough for them. But, they love spending time with you and will likely be up for more activity if you are. They may be smaller dogs, but they also tend to be relatively athletic. When puppies finish growing , you can try higher-impact activities like running, hiking, training for dog sports, and more. Fully-grown Mini Bernedoodles usually stand inches tall. They can range from pounds. F1B and F2 Mini Bernedoodles usually weigh pounds and are on the shorter side of the range. Mini Bernedoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Bernedoodle Article.

All they care about is having fun. If you ever seen two puppies play then you already know how rough, mean and aggressive those games can look while being super adorable at the same time. One pup will chase the other one growling, one will be barking his little head off in his very non-threatening voice while the other will chase his siblings around biting him and tugging him by his ears. At their very core they still have those predatory instincts that come out to the surface. However the instincts to chase down prey, growl in the face of danger and attack their enemies is deeply ingrained in him. Just like little kids like to play games where they pretend to be adults, your little guy is doing exactly the same thing. I bet when your little guy was even younger, you would have had no problem with him biting you with his little teeth because you could barely feel it. However as he got older, those little teeth got bigger, the biting started to hurt more and outrunning your Pug puppy took a bit more effort. Puppies teach each other when to stop biting If left amongst his peers, your puppy would have outgrown his behavior as he got older at the very least he would have learned to take it easy with the aggression. His siblings and his parents would be the ones teaching him when enough is enough. The pup will either yelp out or just stop playing with the aggressive one. At first the biter might not even realize why his pal suddenly changed his mind, but when more of his siblings stop playing with him after he nips too hard he will realize that something is up. He will have to learn that if he wants to keep playing games with his buddies, he will have to play much nicer. All you have to do is show him that if he wants to continue playing with you, he has to keep his sharp teeth off you and your clothes. Otherwise he will have to play all by himself, and we all know that there is no fun in that. Puppies biting their owners while playing have been a problem ever since people kept dogs as housepets. Stop the games whenever your puppy bites you — Just simply stop everything, turn away from him and go about your business while ignoring him. As soon as he realizes that using his teeth during playtime will lose your attention, he will find other ways to keep you interested. Yelp or shout to alarm him whenever things get too rough — You know how I talked about puppies yelping when things get too rough? The only problem though is that you have to teach him those games first. Your little guy only knows how to play with dogs, so teach him games that he can play with humans. If you apply all three of the tips listed above, you will be on the right path to finally stopping your puppies biting. If everyone around him changes how they play games with him, he will have no choice but to change along with them. Watch out for aggressive behavior Sometimes puppies bite for other reasons than just playing. The suggestions above apply mostly to just play biting. Although most of the time when a puppy bites he is doing it playfully, there are exceptions to everything. Other reasons for your puppy to bite you might include: Feeling threatened — if your Pug feels threatened by you or someone around him after growling or barking at the person, he will have no choice but to bite them. Possessive behavior — Some dogs are very possessive and will do anything to defend whatever they feel like is theirs. A lot can go wrong if you approach a dog that has shown warning signs for you to back off. Related Articles. Playing] October 27, by Susan Do you have a Pug puppy who is aggressive? You may be wondering why your puppy is so aggressive or if they are playing. Aggressive behaviors in puppies can be confusing, but there are ways to tell the difference. This article will teach you how to tell if your dog is playing or showing signs of aggression and what to do about it. If your Pug puppy is showing signs of aggression, it may have to do with the following: They have learned the aggressive behavior helps them get what they want. Have been punished incorrectly or too harshly. That said, every puppy or dog can be pushed into aggressive behavior depending on their circumstances, environment, upbringing, etc. Some people, especially first-time dog owners have a hard time differentiating play vs aggression. Playing Vs. Aggression Puppies in general are very active and hyper. They are constantly on the move and you can see them exploring their environment. Their goal is to learn more about everything around them, mostly through play. Puppies love to wrestle with each other or chase toys for fun because they enjoy moving fast while playing. They may even growl or nip at you when you try taking their toys away. Playful behavior in Pug puppies is different from aggressive behavior. Learned Behavior Pugs may learn to act aggressively by watching you act aggressively towards them or others, or you may discipline them with aggressive actions shouting, growling, pushing. A Pug owner needs to maintain an even temper and avoid using any sort of forceful or violent punishment so you do not teach your pup to act aggressively. Think of it as having a child. Punished too Harshly Punishing a puppy too harshly can cause aggression. This article will show you how to discipline your Pug puppy using positive reinforcement , which works best. You can avoid this by finding a way to spend more time with your pup. Pugs love being around their humans and too much neglect can cause behavioral problems. A puppy raised in a household with other animals is more likely to be well-adjusted than one who lives in an apartment or house where he or she is the only pet. A puppy that grows up with children that are not taught how to handle, play, or interact with a puppy can cause aggression. It will cause the puppy to become aggressive as a way to defend itself from the children. Lack of Socialization We hear about the importance of socializing our children with others their age. Doing so teaches them how to interact, behave, and play with others. Puppies, like our human children, need to be exposed to other canines so they can learn appropriate behavior. Puppies learn about aggression and playfulness by playing with other dogs. They will learn how they should behave in these situations by observing you as you react during these situations. Hormonal Changes Puppies experience a dramatic change in hormone levels at the time of puberty. Such as you see with teenagers in your home, these changes can lead to physical and behavioral problems. The hormonal change can cause aggression in both dogs and humans at this time. During adolescence, many dogs may bark more often, or show sudden signs of aggression. Aggressive Pug Puppy Warning Signs Now that you know what can cause aggression in any breed, how do you spot the signs early? After all, the sooner you spot the signs, the easier it will stop the behavior before it escalates. Early signs of aggression in puppies include being possessive over food and toys. Is your Pup protective over their food bowl? Does he or she growl, snarl, or snap at you when you walk by as they eat? Do they get mad or try to bite you when you reach for their bowl or pet them as they eat? Now that you know the signs, you may be asking how to deal with the aggressive behavior? Depending on the severity of the problem, you may want to consult with a professional dog trainer. Reinforcement training works best for aggressive dogs, especially, if you have rescued your dog from a bad living situation. Many online books and dog training courses will show you how to properly use treats to reward good behavior. Final Word Pugs are not known for being aggressive, but you should still be able to identify the difference between playful and aggressive behavior. After all, any dog regardless of breed can develop signs of aggression. Like children, need stability and discipline in their life. The best way of teaching your Pug puppy how to behave is through positive reinforcement training methods that avoid punishment. This will ensure you teach them what you want without making it worse by adding on extra aggression problems. August 15, Fact Checked When looking to add a dog to your family, one of the first factors you must take into consideration is which breed best fits your lifestyle, personality, and interests. Each dog breed has breed specific characteristics that govern their overall temperament, needs, and potential health issues. With this in mind, each dog has their own unique personality and temperament within the overall breed and finding the right fit for you will leave you with a dog that brings you joy and lightens your life If you are considering a Pug as the right breed for you, you may be asking yourself, are Pugs aggressive? Pug aggression can arise and may be brought on by a variety of external variables, and knowing the inner workings of potential Pug aggression will help you make an educated choice about whether or not a Pug is the right furry friend for you. Pug Temperament When analyzing whether or not Pugs can be aggressive, it is important to establish a baseline of typical Pug traits and characteristics. Pugs are known for being extremely loyal and loving to their owners, and possess a silly streak that has earned them a reputation for being the clowns of the canine world. Pugs are often intelligent, which can lead to them being mischievous and headstrong when attempting to train them. Pugs are small in stature and were originally bred to be a lap dog, which results in many Pugs being very affectionate with their owners and wanting to be as close to them as possible. Aggression in Pugs Though Pugs can be very friendly and loving, they can become aggressive when not properly socialized. Aggression in Pugs is often manifested in barking, lunging, nipping, or growling. Pugs may be trying to establish dominance within a space that they feel is their territory through this behavior. Often, aggression in Pugs is also the result of a fear response. When a Pug is not properly socialized with other dogs , people, children, and noises, Pugs will react adversely when it comes into contact with these people, animals, or sounds due to their own anxiety and fear. Pugs may also only exhibit aggression within a certain context, known as a trigger, which is a unique situation that brings out a certain behavior in the Pug. Triggers vary widely between dogs depending on the breed, individual personality, and socialization as a puppy. Pugs may also demonstrate aggressive behavior in response to being left alone in an attempt to make their unhappiness known. Causes of Aggression in Pugs The causes of aggression in Pugs can vary greatly between dogs due to their genetics, socialization, training, and environment. If a Pug has one parent that is aggressive in nature, that may be passed down and may be a reaction exhibited by the puppy as well. In addition, if a puppy grows up around a parent that frequently shows aggressive behavior, they will begin to mimic this behavior as they become an adult. Another frequent cause of aggression in Pugs is a lack of proper training and socialization. Having a dog is a tremendous commitment and requires an owner willing to dedicate the time and resources necessary to show their dog the world and teach them how to properly respond to it. In addition, Pugs that have been abused or frequently exposed to high-stress, traumatic situations may also develop aggressive behaviors. Another possible cause of aggression in Pugs is a negative developmental experience that has left a lasting impression. One example is if a Pug puppy is introduced to another dog that tries to bite your dog or is overly rough with him, then your pup may respond negatively in the future when meeting a different dog because it remembers his prior negative experience and has developed a fear response. Preventing Aggression in Pugs Though Pugs can develop aggressive behaviors, they do not always exhibit aggression and innate aggressive behaviors can be remedied through training and dedication. One of the most important things you can do to help prevent aggression in your Pug is to properly train and socialize him for the entirety of his life. As owners, you teach your dog how to see and respond to the world around them. It is important to put your Pug in a variety of situations with different people, dogs, children, sounds, objects, so that if any aggressive behavior arises, you can correct it and teach your dog to respond differently in the future.

Will my dog get sick from eating poop? Poop eating can definitely be a concern to a pet owner since it can make your dog sick. If your dog is eating its own poop, itmay be OK, but there is still a chance of illness. Especially if your dog is eating the poop of another dog or animal, there is a large risk of infectious diseases or parasites. Some symptoms of poop eating include gastroenteritis, vomiting and diarrhea, decreased appetite, tiredness and intestinal parasites , according to Muenster Milling. Consult your veterinarian if your dog has eaten poop and is experiencing any behavioral changes or symptoms. How often should I take my dog to the vet? And how to know if your pet needs a checkup How can I keep my dog from eating poop? To curb your pup from eating poop, you may consider vitamin or enzyme supplements. These can help if your dog is eating poop due to a lack of certain nutrients, such as vitamin B, says the AKC. There are also various deterrents on the market, which make poop less appetizing to your dog. Other methods to stop your dog from eating poop include training, — using commands like "leave it,' — keeping a close eye during walks and cleaning up poop immediately. Harsh punishment during house training. And one important factor for this stinky act is the influence of other dogs. And who is the most influential to your pooch? His mother, of course. They lick the puppies as a way of encouraging them to pass their bowels. And when the little ones do, mommy dog will clean them up by eating their feces. Because of this, puppies develop the habit of eating poop. But it is not only mommy who is at fault. Having more than one German Shepherd, or several dog breeds, under one roof leads to imitation. It is not surprising if they begin to act alike or share the same habits, like snacking on poop. Your four-legged pal is snacking on poop! Stop him, of course! While veterinarians like Dr. Hart revealed that eating poop is natural for canines, it is still important to end the behavior. Well, for one, you would not want to kiss and cuddle with a pooch that reeks of stinking feces! But that is the least of your concerns. It can cause serious health issues, such as parasitic infections. Why is your German Shepherd buddy feasting on disgusting feces? Is he eating enough? And getting all the nutrients that his body needs? Are you giving him enough attention? Or maybe he is suffering from a medical condition? Prompt identification of what is causing the problem is crucial in solving it. But more than that, it will frighten you. What is wrong with my furbaby? A proper health check will reveal things that will help you understand why your dog is acting that way. More importantly, you will be able to find out whether your canine buddy is suffering from an illness or not. And you can help him before it gets too late. From there, you and the vet can develop a plan of action that can help your dog, like giving the necessary medications and administering proper treatments. If it is, then the solution is easy. All you have to do is provide a complete and balanced meal for your big buddy. Omega 3 fatty acids from vegetables. Healthy fat from sources that contain fish oil. Small amounts of digestible carbohydrates from barley, oats, and rice. High-quality protein from whole meat sources like beef and organ meats. The most common deficiency is that of Vitamin B. If this is the case, consider this: What is in the food you give your German Shepherd? Do you feed him enough? Does he need supplements? Consult your vet to find the answers. Then, you can give your pooch the proper supplements he needs to stay healthy and fit. This does not only refer to the inside of the house. The yard also needs to be kept clean, especially if this is where your dog takes his dump. As soon as your German Shepherd does his business, pick up his poop. This might sound like the simplest and most obvious thing to do. Because when he gets bored, he can start munching on anything he finds, poop included. But, attention alone is not enough to keep your pooch away from poop. Proper supervision is essential in stopping coprophagia. Distract the eager canine when he starts sniffing on something debatable. And keep him away from places where there is bound to be dirt and poop. Note: Put your German Shepherd on a leash when you go on walks. But also give him time to run freely in a safe environment, a dog park, for example. And the best way to avoid this feeling is not to punish them. If a German Shepherd is punished for pooping in the house, he may eat his poop in order to get rid of it. This is his attempt to remove the reason which he gets punished for. So, instead of punishing your dog, you can potty train him more effectively. Because if you are too hard on him, you can ruin your relationship. When you successfully do this, your big buddy will slowly ignore his waste after taking a dump. Reward him with a quick treat when he comes to you afterward. This will make him salivate, allowing him to naturally wash his own mouth. Let your dog chew on a dental stick or treat. Just be careful not to push your fingers too far in or your dog might gag. Conclusion It is uncomfortable, disgusting, and quite disappointing to know that your German Shepherd is eating poop. But remember, dogs are inclined to do it. Once you put the tips above into action, your dog will surely steer away from the unwanted behavior. Just make sure you couple your actions with patience, understanding, and love for your best buddy. They may act inappropriately or display unwanted aggression toward something harmless. Other times, canines follow instincts that have no basis with humans. Perhaps one of the most unpleasant aspects of pet ownership is coprophagy or eating stool. German Shepherds are just as likely to show this unwanted behavior as any other breed. Some may theorize that instinctive drives are stronger in these dogs because of their resemblance to their wild counterparts. However, there are also other reasons why it occurs that may have health or behavioral roots. Knowing the cause can help you find a way to stop it. New evidence suggests a different path where the two species share a common ancestor. That means some of the hardwiring that existed in the wild may still reside in your German Shepherd. Their canine ancestors lived a life of feast or famine. Coprophagy may be a remnant of those survival instincts. Image Credit: cvop, Pixabay 2. Other animals will also eat feces, such as rabbits, nonhuman primates, and rodents. Maternal Instinct Is at Work Dogs are born helpless at birth. They are utterly dependent upon their mothers. That even covers the most basic things, such as staying warm or eliminating. A female will lick the puppies to encourage them to urinate and defecate. To protect them and themselves, the pup will clean up after the offspring. Another health condition that occurs frequently is thyroid disease. That can manifest itself in stool-eating behavior. Some disorders cause an abnormal increase in appetite, which a pup tries to meet this way. The bacteria interfere with the absorption of nutrients, which a pup will try to meet with other inappropriate sources. A Parasitic Infection May Encourage This Undesirable Behavior An intestinal parasitic infestation can cause similar symptoms, such as an abnormal appetite. The parasites consume the nutrients that the German Shepherd should get from its diet. Dogs can get infected in various ways. One of the most common is eating the feces of other animals, such as rabbits. This breed is an affectionate and loyal dog that is prone to separation anxiety if left alone too often. Failure to provide a mentally stimulating environment can set up the perfect storm for the pet to pick up undesirable behaviors, such as coprophagy. Image Credit: Vach cameraman, Shutterstock Controlling the Problem The first step toward stopping this problem is getting your dog a thorough examination by a vet. As our list shows, several medical reasons may prompt this behavior. Nutrient deficiencies are another common cause. A supplement is also an appropriate way to treat this condition. Your vet will likely recommend follow-up testing if a medical cause is behind the problem. The next steps may focus on the behavioral side. Factors such as separation anxiety or long stretches in a crate can cause a dog to act in this manner. You should also take an active role in preventing it while on walks or at the doggy park. Some of the canine instincts may not make sense to us. Nevertheless, they are perfectly normal in the canine world. Fortunately, correcting unwanted habits like stool eating is possible. It involves finding out the cause behind it and taking the appropriate actions. German Shepherds may eat their own poop for any number of reasons. Dietary deficiency, diseases, copycat behavior, behavioral problems, and even ancient genetic instincts may be reasons why your GSD eats their own stool, as the American Kennel Club AKC points out. This term applies equally to dogs, cats, and other pets. In the rest of this article, we will talk about the many reasons why you might catch your German Shepherd eating their own stool. While it is unlikely your dog is physically feeling hunger pangs when they go to eat their stool, it is quite possible there is an underlying dietary deficiency driving the behavior. As VCA Animal Hospitals explains, dietary deficiency in dogs can arise from a number of different potential causes. As this iFeeder report indicates, analyzing pet foods is big business in and of itself, and there is a lot of money riding on manufacturer reputation. So often you have to look for other clues — such as poop eating — to detect when there may be a mismatch. When a dog is missing certain vital nutrients, they may go back to their own poop to try to absorb more nutrition from each portion of the food they eat. This is a practice that is so essential for some mammals such as guinea pigs that they die if not permitted to engage in coprophagy. Luckily, dogs do not have a genetic nutritional need to eat their poop. But they may do so if their diet is chronically lacking. Your dog has parasites When your dog has parasites, they are essentially eating for the parasites as well as for their own health and nutrient needs. Unfortunately, eating poop is one of the primary ways that a dog can pick up parasites like hookworm, roundworm, and whipworm in the first place, as Vetz Insight explains. But it is not the only potential trigger. Deficiencies in certain key digestive enzymes may also be a culprit. As PetMD explains, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, or EPI, is the best-known medical problem that can result in coprophagy in dogs. The pancreas is responsible for producing a number of important digestive enzymes along with insulin. The latter is caused by defective cells. The former can be genetic or induced and may also be triggered by canine diabetes. Ongoing issues with diarrhea. Increased stool output. Eating stool. Interestingly, some German Shepherds that only seem to want to eat the stool of a particular dog may actually be responding to disease in the other dog. This can include stool, although it can also extend to other non-food objects like rocks, grass, leaves, stones, sticks, fabrics, and more. While most cases of pica are considered to be linked to behavior rather than medical problems, with coprophagy there can be a clear medical component as well. If your German Shepherd has a tendency to eat poop and other items that are not on the menu of a typical canine or are not on any menu at all , your pet may be suffering from pica. Your German Shepherd Dog Eats Poop for Behavioral Reasons If your dog has been evaluated and tested and your canine veterinarian has ruled out a possible medical cause for coprophagia, the other main area to look at is behavioral. In other words, German Shepherds that are healthy otherwise may still choose to eat their own poop. But why, you are probably wondering? This is what we will look at in the next section. GSD puppies, like all puppies, rely on the mother dog to lick them and remind them to do their business. Learning how to poop on their own is a big part of early puppyhood. It is a big deal! When your GSD puppy came home with you, potty training became a big part of daily life. Your puppy probably got lots of attention and praise when it was potty time and things went well. In the same way, if your puppy pooped in the house, they likely got quite a bit of attention for this as well — you might not have been happy about it, but your puppy was because your attention was focused on them. As Canine Journal explains, a poorly trained and socialized or previously traumatized German Shepherd may resort to poop eating rather than seeking attention in more positive and acceptable ways. This outdated and ineffective form of training is now thought to actually encourage coprophagia in dogs that have been subjected to it. The dog may start to eat their poop to hide it and avoid further discipline. Along the same lines, German Shepherd dogs can be especially prone to developing separation anxiety, which is another behavioral issue that is linked to poop eating. Your German Shepherd is acting out of instinct While this explanation walks a fine line between genetics and behavior, wild canid females have often been observed eating the feces of their young to try to remove the scent and throw potential predators off the trail. But what about when male puppies or adult GSDs do this? In this case, canid behaviorists think it may have to do with puppies watching their mother eat poop and picking up the behavior from her. After all, canid pups in the wild have to learn everything from their mother and would be carefully watching and mimicking everything she does — including eating their own poop. According to a research study reported in Live Science , the majority of dog owners that have tried to discourage stool eating in their dogs have experienced low or no success. However, this is not to say it is impossible to train your dog not to eat their own poop. You will just need a lot of patience and persistence to find what works to discourage your German Shepherd from eating poop. This will require consistent, determined effort on your part. You will need to watch your GSD closely on potty breaks and quickly remove the feces and dispose of it in a secure location. If your dog goes out at night or early in the morning, you will need to bring a flashlight to make sure you see where the poop is and can pick it up right away. Then you will reinforce this with praise, pats, treats, and attention. This way, you always know where to look to pick up the stool and your GSD is not lingering near it long enough to potentially eat it. But to dogs, it is quite possible they just eat poop because they like it! This can have an unexpected benefit if you need to train your GSD not to eat their own poop. As PetCareRX highlights, there are soft chews and additives available that may change the taste of the poop to make it undesirable. Foods like zucchini and pineapple can also change the tastebuds and may make poop and everything else taste different from your dog. Use a head or muzzle restraint This is not an ideal choice for training your German Shepherd dog not to eat poop for two reasons. One, restraints can be difficult to manage and your dog may be very determined to get out of a neck cone or head collar. And two, if your dog decides to mash their muzzle or restraint down on the poop to try to eat it anyway, then you have to clean it and your dog. But if nothing else is working, it is certainly worth a try. For example, if your GSD has developed separation anxiety, this can require special and intense training to overcome. You may need to temporarily put your dog in a daycare program or hire a dog sitter to keep your anxious GSD from eating their own poop. Alternately, if your German Shepherd hates their crate or some other aspect of their living space, you may need to explore an alternate arrangement for when you need to confine your dog. German Shepherds are extremely intelligent working dogs that have been bred for more than a century to work hard at difficult, demanding, and sometimes dangerous jobs. Your dog may be bored and lonely and acts out because eating poop is something to do to fill the time. You may find that adding more canine athletics, taking your dog for more walks, adding some additional playtime, and using more puzzle toys and treat toys work to tire out your dog and keep poop eating behavior at bay. Remember, above all else, your German Shepherd dog wants your attention, time, and love. More of you often equals less eating poop. Coprophagia consumption of feces can be divided into 3 groups. These are: 1. Autocoprophagia: means a dog consuming its own feces 2. Intraspecific coprophagia: the consumption of feces of other dogs 3. Interspecific coprophagia: the consumption of feces of other animals and humans. Studies have shown that, historically, many dogs in developing countries developed a taste for feces while scavenging through trash including feces while trying to scavenge their next meal. While this behavior may seem rather indiscriminate, studies have also shown that the same dogs actually displayed a level of discernment, as they showed a disinclination to consume feces more than 2 days old. Wolves that are old or injured attempt to clean up their den areas that are shared with others by eating their feces. This is because they are intuitievely aware that the feces contains parasites. By consuming the feces within two days of defecating, it is ensured that the feces will be consumed before any parasite eggs hatch and infect any other wolves present. While there are many reasons why GSDs may eat poop, some of the most common reasons are as follows: Underfeeding Hungry dogs, dogs who do not eat regularly, or are starving are more likely to eat the feces of other dogs, animals, and humans. Dogs that eat only once a day and start eating poop may need more daily meals. Malabsorption Sometimes a GSD will eat feces if he is fed poor quality food long-term, especially if the food is high in fat content. Eating poop can also occur in dogs that are nervous, frightened, or under the influence of stress. Stress is a common cause of behavioral problems in dogs. If you feel that this may be the case with your GSD, it may be wise to consult with a dog trainer or behaviorist. A solution may be as simple as alleviating boredom. Other times, a GSD may see another dog eating feces, so he will want to try it too. It is also not uncommon for a young puppy to see his mother eating feces. It is common for a puppy to then simply imitate the behavior. Punishment If a GSD is being verbally scolded for pooping in the house, he may resort to eating his own feces in an attempt to make it disappear — no body, no crime! It is for this reason that it is very important to never scold your dog for pooping in the house. The true solution is proper potty training. For a detailed understanding of how to potty train your GSD puppy, I have written an excellent article for you right here. For example, when intestinal parasites are present, they exhaust the body and draw nutrients from it, causing your dog to feel increased hunger. A very common cause of this issue in German shepherds can be the Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI. This is a condition characterized by a lack of digestive enzymes, which results in the inability to digest food properly, and thus leads to the inability to absorb nutrients. A dog suffering from this disease loses weight despite its good appetite and suffers from frequent and abundant diarrhea. Diabetes One of the causes of increased appetite and coprophagia as well can be diabetes. When cortisol levels are too high or too low, it can cause a host of problems. Attention-Seeking Behavior A German Shepherd may eat poop simply as a way provoke his owner into reacting. This is not too different than the behavior of a child when it wants attention. And, just like when dealing with a child, it is very important that you keep your cool if this is happening with your GSD. Reacting to it will only serve to reinforce the behavior. Forced and Restricting Confinement German Shepherds need space. This is why we highly recommend owning a GSD only if you have a large living space and preferably a yard. This is very common in GSDs that have been rescued after spending time in a crowded shelter. For more information on German Shepherd space requirements, check out this great article that we have for you right here. Living In Isolation German Shepherds are especially social dogs — much more so than other breeds. It is for this reason that they do not do well living in isolation. In fact, GSDs are highly susceptible to separation anxiety. As previously mentioned, anxiety can be a cause for poop eating behavior. For more information on GSD separation anxiety, take a look at this informative article. Unfortunately, there is no magic bullet for this one. There are, however, a few actions that you can take to curb this behavior if you feel that it is problematic. Make sure that you guide him away from eating poop while the behavior is under your control Properly Socialize Your German Shepherd As a German shepherd owner, you have to be prepared for long walks and running, because your dog needs them, at least twice a day. If possible, allow your dog to socialize with other dogs, which, along with a quality relationship with his owner, will help help him to avoid boredom and anxiety — both common reasons for a dog eating poop. A happy and occupied GSD will be less likely to engage in poop eating behavior. For a through guide on how to socialize your German Shepherd, we have a great article for you right here. It contains all that you need to know in order to successfully socialize your GSD. Instead of one meal, divide the daily amount of food into several meals, so that your dog does not feel hungry during the day. In my experience, dogs that eat balanced raw or cooked foods are less likely to consume feces. Feed Your German Shepherd a Holistic Diet Feeding a holistic diet to your dog works to get to the root of a problem, rather than just addressing the symptoms as they arise. For example, using an anti-itch cream may lessen the desire to itch, but it will not address the underlying problem. A holistic diet works to resolve the issue of your dog itching in the first place. Think of resolving health or behavioral issue as a series of connecting the dots — this can be a complicated process. A holistic approach to feeding your dog can make it so that there are no dots to connect in the first place by erasing the cause of them. The fundamentals of a holistic diet include: Probiotics: great for digestive system support Prebiotics: great for digestive system support High-quality protein: based in fish, beef, pork, or chicken Herbs: great to prevent inflammation Vitamins: essential for overall organ and bone health Minerals: essential for overall organ and bone health Antioxidants: great for immune system support and disease prevention Fiber: great for digestive system support Whole grains: contain high-quality carbohydrates for energy If preparing a holistic diet for your GSD is too time consuming for you, a great alternative is Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food. This blend contains ingredients that include precise amounts of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that have been selected by animal nutritionists and, importantly, holistic veterinarians. In addition, if your GSD is suffering from diarrhea or related issues, beneficial bacterias in probiotics are a great way to boost them back to normal levels. These products usually come in different forms, such as yogurt, kefir, powders, capsules, chews, or dog foods. This probiotic contains a blend of 7 selected species of live beneficial bacteria with added Inulin. Your GSD is likely acting out of instinct, stress, or as an attempt to resolve a digestive or health issue. Just remember to be patient and understanding with your GSD, and have confidence that you will be able to curb this behavior.