american bulldog puppies raleigh nc

Biothane is a coated webbing material that feels like soft leather in your hands. This super lightweight, waterproof leash is incredibly durable even with daily use on large, strong dogs. Simply run some soapy water in the sink, let the leash soak for a couple of minutes and then wipe dry. Do you ever notice that your regular leashes can smell a little…funky? Biothane never takes on any weird smells, no matter how much you use it! It also comes in just about any color you could possibly imagine, plus various widths and lengths. If you enjoy outdoor adventures with your Golden Retriever, a biothane leash is a must-have piece of equipment. Biothane leashes come in a variety of widths. There are many companies that make and sell biothane leashes. A long line is basically what it sounds like — a long leash. Why would you want a really long leash, you might ask? Well, there are a few reasons. They spent lots of time in nature, and truly love being outdoors. While there are some people who use Golden Retrievers for their original intended purpose retrieving a shot bird , most people who own a Golden are not avid hunters. Now think about a walk in your neighborhood on a regular, 6-foot leash compared to a day spent as a hunting partner. Enter the long line! This is tool can give your dog more freedom to move their body and explore nature, which helps them feel more satisfied. The more your dog gets to move, the more tired they will be, and a tired, content dog is a good dog. More Sniffing Opportunities As humans, our primary sense is sight. But our dogs live in a world of scent, as their sense of smell is their primary sense. For them, stopping and sniffing is like reading a really good book, or getting an exciting email from a friend. Sniffing is excellent mental exercise, which can wear your dog out as they process all the information their olfactory system is taking in. Studies show that sniffing also is calming for dogs, actually lowering their heartrate. Letting dogs sniff is actually one of the best and easiest ways you can improve their quality of life. Using a long line opens up the world a bit more, so they can access more interesting sniff spots. They can check out the sniffs on that tree, or make their way to the fire hydrant, or stick their snout in that rodent hole without hitting the end of the leash. Less Pulling For some dogs, simply having a longer leash can eliminate or reduce leash pulling. Giving them a little more room to sniff and move can actually prevent them from pulling on you. Again, this is not a cure-all, and some dogs may need some additional training to understand how to walk without pulling, but it can reduce a lot of frustration both in the dog and the owner. Depending on where you live, it could work well for neighborhood walks, but you want to be considerate of your neighbors and not let your dog walk right up to their front door. Long lines are amazing for walks in nature or larger open spaces, such as a park or soccer field. But with some practice, you will get used to reeling your dog out and reeling them in as they enjoy their walk. As you hone your skills, you could try a 30 footer, though a line that long is best for spacious environments like nature trails or the beach. This is because the design allows for the leash to be continually tightened when there is tension on the lead. Such intense pressure on the neck could cause a collapsed trachea or other health issues. This keeps everyone safe and happy while out enjoying adventures together, however big or small. Have any questions about these leashes? Let us know down in the comments! Getting a Golden Retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Related Articles:. There are plenty of ways to do this while you are taking them for a walk. Give commands such as sit and stay. Help your puppy understand your instructions. It is crucial to reward them often with some treats when they follow your commands. They eventually make a connection between the treat and the command. If you find that your puppy is afraid to go out for a walk, it may be the best option to put some treats along the way, so they know that pleasurable experiences are coming. Consider a Harness for Golden Retriever Puppy Pulling The most straightforward way to stop your puppy pulling is not to actually use a leash. You may want to opt for a dog harness. The difference is extremely noticeable since you will find that the harness can provide additional support and strength to manage your dog when they start pulling. There are available harnesses designed to stop pulling during walks. As you take your puppy for a walk, you may notice that they are reluctant to walk very long and easily become tired the first few times. Puppies can only walk certain distances when young, and you need to know how much activity they can manage. Thus, if your puppy is a month old, you can only walk them for a maximum of five minutes. But if your puppy is already two months old, then that would translate to a minute walk. A Few Training Tips for Your Puppy— Best Leash for Golden Retriever Puppy According to experts, if your puppy starts tugging and stops walking and eventually stands still, it is crucial to encourage your puppy to come closer. Once they come to you, praise them and give them a treat. The leash is now loose, so you can continue walking. Do this consistently, and you will be satisfied that your puppy will never pull at the leash again. It is crucial to bond with your puppy and start exploring new places together. Opt for a harness if your puppy is dead set on pulling since a harness makes it easier to control your dog. Harnesses are not recommended for puppies. Utilize harnesses for extreme cases, but a leash works adequately. If you are training your puppy for distance commands, you should get a line between 30 and 50 feet long. In both cases, you should opt for a nylon webbing leash. You may also want to wear gloves to avoid the occurrence of rope burn if your dog pulls, and you grab the leash, and it accidentally slips from your hands. Everyday Use Your best option is to use traditional six-foot nylon or a leash made from leather. Six-feet is adequate enough to give freedom of movement while keeping your dog nearby and within your control. It is up to you whether you want to choose nylon or leather. It is also applicable in wet and wintry weather. You can use leather for all types of weather, but you have to occasionally apply some conditioner to keep it from degrading and maintain its look. Make sure to choose the correct width and strength of leash for your particular dog or puppy. It may mean having to upgrade your leash to accommodate your growing puppy. For a fully grown large dog, choose a nice thick, strong leash. If your dog has a habit of chewing on the leash, you may want to opt for a chain leash. Other materials will be damaged often by a dog that loves to chew. Chain leash are available in varying thicknesses to accommodate the size of your dog or puppy. Make sure to choose a strong enough clip to match the size and strength of your dog as well as their power when they start pulling at full strength. You cannot risk having them break free and run away. It is crucial to have at least one spare leash, so there is always one ready if the regular one gets destroyed, breaks, or gets lost. Dry your leashes if they get wet. Store them or hang them instead of simply throwing them in a drawer. Make sure they are fully dry before you store them. It will make them last longer. Routinely examine any signs of damage and make sure the clip is strong and secure. You can replace the leash at the first sign of any damage or when the clip becomes loose and weak. You may also want to consider attaching a carabiner to the handle to make tethering your dog an effortless task. Simply loop the handle on any post or pole and utilize the carabiner to affix the leash to itself. It is much better and easier than dealing with knots, which need to be tied and untied. Meaning that you can utilize it for running or bike riding, and you can utilize it as a typical leash for walking your dog. This best leash for golden retriever puppy is targeted towards medium to large-sized dogs, so it may not be a good option for dogs that are smaller or below three months. But if your puppy is older, then this is an excellent option. This best leash for a golden retriever puppy utilizes a buckle made of hard plastic, and the handle is made from steel, so you are assured that you will have a firm grip on your puppy all the time. The design of this best leash for golden retriever puppy has easy-grip panels, and the main leash is made from bungee rope. It can expand and contract, giving you optimum flexibility when walking with your dog. Availability: InStock. The idea of a lost puppy is terrifying, but an ID tag will help them return home. Although this silicone ID tag is more expensive than standard tags, I love that it is silent and attaches right to the collar. Crate and or containment gate Puppies are curious creatures that often need boundaries. You can accomplish this with a crate and containment gates. Crate training can be a lifesaver, and most dogs fall in love with having their own space. I recommend a crate with an adjustable divider so you can give your puppy more room as they grow. Another option is to use a Cumbor containment gate to limit access to certain areas of your home. Food and water bowls There are endless options of food and water bowls. If your dog eats fast, I recommend adding slow feeder attachment. These aids in proper digestion and reduce overeating behaviors. Food and treats Your vet is probably your best source of information for selecting the right food. They create personalized plans for your dog and deliver the food right to your door. I shared my journey of picking the right food in this blog and video. Toys and chews All dogs have slightly different preferences in toys, so I would start with a variety of items to see what interests your puppy most. Ellie still has her first toy, Dino, from 5 years ago! The safest way to deliver bully sticks is to use a Bow Wow Buddy safety device so they cannot swallow or choke on the last end. Check out this blog for all things grooming. Bonus Recommendation! Online Access to Dog Training We recognized the need for convenient and effective dog training solutions, which is why we created The Hapco. Within our app, you'll discover a wealth of resources, including: video tutorials. Does your puppy pull on the leash when walking? See, they do pull for sure! We bought Max 9 months back probably at the end of , and max is very energetic and exciting whenever we take him out for a walk. So, he too used to pull a lot, but we trained him and now he never pulls rather obeys during the walks. Now, How to stop your puppy from pulling? How to stop your puppy from pulling? You can stop your puppy from pulling and secondly, there are ways to stop your puppy pulling and those ways require training. Training is the solution to this and you can do this effortlessly… After you have trained your pup, he will obey your commands and after the training, your pup will not pull but also will walk with you as an obedient school-going boy. But how to get those Training? Can also watch those 2 youtube vids linked above. But, the harness is required only if your puppy is strong on pulling, and a harness makes it easier to pull your dog. And the only purpose to let you know about the harness is that once your puppy grows you should go for the harness but for now, the leash works well enough. Now what is a harness, some people might know and some not. This is a Dog Harness I hope that now you are quite familiar with it. Once your puppy grows you can go with a harness. Go through these best leashes for a golden retriever puppy. This leash is mainly made for medium to larger-sized dogs. You can watch this 2 minutes short video by sparkly pets, it covers the whole thing up. Bucke is made of tough plastic and the handle is made from steel which will help you to have a strong grip on your puppy at all times. For a small puppy, this will last longer. The actual leash is made up of bungee rope and so while walking it can give you full stretch and contract flexibility. The waistband is made up of nylon and nylon can withstand even the most playful dog. The buckle is made up of plastic and according to my personal experiences plastic buckle does not last long. Again you have to try this for yourself and use this for your small puppy this can last a long much more. Lastly, I would say that this is really the best leash for golden retriever puppy which has all-in power pack features. The buckle of the leash is made with stainless steel in D-ring Shaped. The collar too has a buckle and is made up of stainless steel the same as on the leash but the shape is a little different. The leash and collar are made with high-quality polyester. And no doubt the leash is strong enough! But, there are a few cons to this product, let me tell you: So the leash is all ok and fine but the plastic buckle for the collar may not last till your expectations. There are chances that the plastic buckle on the collar may break, but too little 0. As puppies are not that stronger that they can break these buckles. And you know what is really interesting? They have different colors and design patterns for the leash which stands out as unique and I personally love that. I can also say that is the best collar and leash for golden retriever puppy. For puppies, this leash is the best, no doubt! At the end of

Our dogs are our family. They are raised on our farm and get to interact and play with our young family, run around with plenty of ample space, and are treated with the utmost service and professional care. Showline West German Shepherds of German Championship Bloodlines are wonderful dogs with even disposition with composed confident temperaments, of great intelligence with wonderful formation of the True breed. With years of personal experience owning our own German Shepherds, we are filled with excitement for our loving customers , to now experience the joy and happiness that these beautiful dogs will give you. Please call us at to inquire about more details, pricing, waiting list and securing a spot on our reserved list. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube page for updates. We continue where man and dog have built a strong relationship that lasts a lifetime. We strive to continuously better the beloved breed through a selective breeding program with excellent pedigrees and proven championship bloodlines. We focus on providing German Shepherd puppies with excellent temperaments, that possess the qualifications of the German Shepherd breed standards and physical health to become top quality members of your family or team. German Shepherd dogs are one of the most popular breeds. Known for their intelligence , loyalty , obedience and intuitive guardian awareness. We have imported European German Shepherd females with excellent championship pedigrees. In addition , we have a selection of dogs with V Excellent rating and have achieved their own titles. We have also selectively hand-picked our imported breeding studs who are exemplary of the German Shepherd breed standards with their own wonderful pedigrees , VA Excellent Select ratings and accomplished titles. Our German Shepherd puppies are raised in our home as part of our family for a strong foundation in life. Our German Shepherds are seen for health exams regularly , along with treatment as needed throughout the year. Puppies are provided with Vet examination. Day 1 to 8 Weeks Reputable As a family, our goal is to demonstrate honesty and integrity while providing superior quality puppies from a small-scale, yet highly professional program. Our German Shepherd puppies are exposed to many different safe and positive situations and are handled throughout every day from birth. The quality we offer is evident not only in lineage, but also by the proven outcomes of our past litters. Euro Deja demonstrates honesty and integrity while providing superior quality European Showline German Shepherd puppies that have been well-cared for and socialized. And the objective doesn't stop there! We are dedicated to a lifetime of support We are very different in that we do not require anyone to give up their guaranteed German Shepherd from Euro Deja in order to receive the warranty benefits. We are also looking forward to implementing a training program for our pups in the future. Our home sits in 3 acres off of a quiet country road and surrounded by many more acres of land available to roam. Our dogs love the adventures we take exploring the area. Our German Shepherds are very loyal and love to please. Get in Touch! Once we receive your message we will respond as soon as possible. Our dogs are tested for hip and elbow dysplasia and Degenerative Myelopathy DM before being considered a part of our breeding program. They must also demonstrate great character, a sound temperament, and a personality notable of the German Shepherd standard. While our dogs are currently not titled in show, our criteria is that they have incredible potential to be champions. We are very small scale and family-oriented; it is even the long-term goal of our breeding program. Sara Chisnell, UKC Legal Counsel, says in her article, The Dog Breeder Dilemma, "I find it hard to believe that these high volume kennels can properly socialize puppies to prepare them to go into the pet homes they are destined for. We came upon a solution and developed a program that gives each of our breeding dogs a family home. We use our expertise in selection and then place them those that are not our own family pets in a sponsorship program with responsible pet owners who are committed to caring for and loving their new dog. Since we are not overwhelmed by numbers, when the dog has a litter, the pups are just as well socialized and cared for. And when the dog retires from our program, it already has a home. I personally travel to Germany and select most of my breeding dogs. I select dogs that not only have beautiful confirmation, sound hips and elbows but have wonderful temperaments for families. Most of my German Shepherds are the traditional black and red colors. I do not take deposits until the puppies are born. The puppies are selected by the age of 6 weeks of age, and allowed to go into new homes at 8 weeks of age. All of our puppies are current on vaccinations and dewormings. Each puppy come with a complete care package which includes their AKC papers, pedigrees, photos of parents, and their written health guarantee. Puppies are shown by appointment ONLY…. .Please contact Joyce Via E-mail at Germanshepherds mistyridge. We prefer email over phone call to ensure a quicker response. Please inquire early for information about the new litters. If you wait until they are eight weeks old, it may be too late to get a puppy from that particular litter. Each puppy will be excellent for show, any type of obedience, herding, agility or Schutzhund competition. With each Misty Ridge puppy purchase, Joyce provides a picture of both the sire and dam, a complete pedigree for both, a health certificate for the puppy, and an American Kennel Club registration form to register the puppy in your name as a pure bred German Shepherd. Joyce also provides a written guarantee against hip dysplasia and any congenital defects or diseases. Please call or email us for additional information. Contact Us.

This is one of the hardest parts of my job because I love all of our babies. We take deposits to reserve your spot in the 'pick order' once our litters are successfully on the ground. Our pups go to you only after thorough check ups by licensed Veterinarians. We highly recommend you have your puppy spayed or neutered by 6 months of age. Get In Touch I understand that your pets are part of your family and I give them the same care and attention that I provide for my own animals. Home: Services Our list changes periodically so that we can produce the best Labrador. Cannon is currently one of our three studs. Picture albums of both can be seen on FaceBook. We perform genetic tests as well as OFA skeletal exams on our dogs to help eliminate certain diseases that we don't want to pass to our puppies. Not only does Twix possess the beauty and fabulous demeanor of a great AKC labrador, her loyalty and willingness to please is unmatched. She passes these traits onto her puppies as well. Her daughter, KODA, has now replaced her in the whelping arena. Please follow us on Facebook for current pictures, videos, albums and daily updates. Get in Touch WindFields Labradors. Go To WindFields!!! Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. The Labrador Retriever is possibly the most beloved dog around, and these active, friendly pups are one of the most popular family dogs. Get ready to find your new best friend! The 10 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Georgia 1. All puppies sold are on Limited AKC registration and are available at 8 weeks of age with up-to-date vaccinations and worming. Parent dogs are also screened for PRA and exercise induced collapse. Before they ever reach your home, puppies will have been introduced to water, whistles, birds, retrieving, and simulated gunfire. They come microchipped and with current vaccinations and worming, plus will have had their dew claws removed. Your puppy will be sent to its new home with a written warranty, along with a starter kit, including food samples and care instructions. They use the Puppy Culture program, an approach based on science, for training and socialization. They do not breed champagne, silver, or charcoal Labradors. They also do not sell on a first come, first serve basis but instead are dedicated to getting to know potential owners through a two-step process. Puppies are sold on Limited Registration, and there is usually a 6—12 month wait for one. They have a stringent screening process to find the best homes and owners for their puppies. They comply with AKC rules and regulations and offer yellow, chocolate, and black Labradors. To become one of the top breeders in the Southeast, they routinely bring in show champion lines. Horizon ships to all major airports. They do not allow visits but are active on social media, so you can check out plenty of pictures and reviews from other buyers. Puppies are exposed to people and sound to get them socialized and introduced to crates to make crate training easier for you. Puppies come with Limited Registration and a 2-year genetic health guarantee. Their puppies are family-raised, so are socialized via plenty of playtime with children and adults. Parent dogs come from strong Champion Pedigrees or are Champions of Conformation, plus are given clearances for health before breeding. Puppies come with AKC registration, proper vaccinations, worming, and have their dew claws removed. This breeder also offers a lifetime guarantee up to 10 years if your pet is kept on the same food they were started on. Plus, if you find yourself unable to keep your pet at any time in the future, they can help you place it in a new home. They were so easy to work with and we highly recommend them to anyone looking for a beautiful lab to add to their family! Puppies are screened for genetic and congenital issues and given proper vaccinations, flea and heartworm medication, and intestinal parasite prevention. They typically have puppies available in spring and fall. Related Read:. Dogs are great for the whole family. They teach children responsibility, offer unconditional love, and provide years of laughter. When you decide to add a dog to your family, you might as well get the best of the best—a Labrador retriever puppy from Silver and Charcoal Kennels. Our Mississippi Labrador retriever breeding program delivers puppies to Georgia and all over the country. We aim to provide every family who wants one with the puppy of their dreams. As an established professional Labrador retriever breeder, no one is better equipped to do that than we are. Silver Labrador Retriever Breeder in Georgia Labrador retrievers are known to be intelligent, friendly, gentle, loving, and beautiful dogs. We breed our Labs to embody all those traits. Our silver, champagne, and charcoal Labradors make excellent hunting dogs, rescue dogs, service dogs, and family companions. They grow to have stable temperaments, high intelligence, and fun and affectionate personalities. We complete genetic testing for our dogs and deliver every puppy with AKC registration, a month hip guarantee, and up-to-date vaccinations. Our pups have impressive pedigrees, with bloodlines that go back decades, and Sires with Field Trial Championships and Senior Titles. With their quality of health, your Silver and Charcoal Kennels pup is sure to be around to love you for many years. Once a puppy becomes available, you will be able to take them home at eight weeks old. You can pick them up or we will drive them to you in Georgia. The newest, furriest member of your family awaits you. Get in touch with us today to learn more about or reserve a Labrador retriever puppy from Silver and Charcoal Kennels! Questions about our puppies? These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for almost forty years. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we deliver our world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily deliver our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Atlanta. For details, call Woody or Judi at .Labrador Retriever Puppies and Children In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Dogs are better than popping pills or drinking elixers. Children with dogs for pets have been found to have lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and fewer overall physical complaints than those without dogs. In fact, there are several diseases where dogs have been used to help those who have the disease. Two of these are: rheumatoid arthritis and emotional disturbance stemming from cases of severe abuse. Samuel B. Be sure to read the rest of her article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client!

The breed is instantly recognizable, with his low-slung body, massive flat muzzle, wide shoulders, and strong limbs. Unfortunately, they are prone to some serious health problems. And extra weight can make these worse. So how do you know if your Bulldog is carrying too much weight? And what can you do to help him slim down? Do Bulldogs Get Fat Easily? Unfortunately, for a breed who loves to eat, the answer is yes, Bulldogs have a tendency to gain weight easily. This is because Bulldogs are physically unable to do any vigorous activities. The disparity between how much they eat and their inability to do sufficient exercise is the main reason for obesity in Bulldogs. Bulldogs are brachycephalic, or short-muzzled. Despite having a flat face, the skin, palate, teeth, tongue and tissue are still the same as they would be for a dog with a much longer muzzle. This makes them highly prone to the conformation-related, respiratory disorder known as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS. This condition presents a wide array of symptoms, from snoring and snorting to very severe breathing problems. Small nostrils and a short windpipe often cause severe sleep apnea. These interrupted breathing episodes cause a decrease in blood oxygen levels and excess carbon dioxide in the bloodstream. Already predisposed, an overweight Bulldog will be at a high risk for a sleeping disorder. Is My Bulldog Fat? An adult male Bulldog weighs about 50 pounds. The female weighs approximately 40 pounds. Standing just 14 to 15 inches, this is a breed who is meant to be thick and heavy. These weights are guidelines. There are ranges that fall within the parameters of normal weight based on genetics, shape and size. Due to their unique physique, it can be harder to judge whether a Bulldog is overweight just by looking at him than it is with other breeds. When you run your hands along either side of his rib cage, you should be able to feel his ribs. Also, if he gets winded easily, is snorting more or short of breath, these could be signs that he needs to lose weight. Are Fat Bulldogs Unhealthy? A U. Obesity is the most common medical condition in dogs. The reality is that Bulldogs are an unhealthy breed with a life span of just eight to 10 years. When you add extra pounds to a dog who is already suffering, it can escalate many health conditions. Bulldog Health Problems Here are a few ways to better understand monitor common health problems for Bulldogs. The older they are, the worse things can get. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is an abnormal formation of the hip socket. If severe, it can cause lameness and painful arthritis. Intervertebral Disk Disease Intervertebral disk disease occurs when the discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column either bulge or burst. Patellar Luxation Patellar luxation happens when the kneecap, or patella, is dislocated from its normal position in the thigh bone. It can cause pain, lameness and can lead to a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament. Spine Deformities Pelvic deformities and degenerative spine disease also affect the breed. Ultimately, when joints, bones, tendons and ligaments bear the stress of extra weight, they can become damaged or worsen existing conditions. There could be other medical reasons for his weight gain. There are plenty of specialty dog foods on the market that can make things somewhat confusing. There are dog food brands that are designed to decrease digestive problems, protect joints, strengthen skin and even reduce flatulence. Whether you choose dry or canned food, your Bulldog should receive a high-quality formulation. Look for organic or all-natural ingredients and no fillers, animal by-products, additives or preservatives. A high-quality food with a good source of protein can make him feel fuller, which might reduce calorie intake. Also look for a recipe with few ingredients to reduce the chance of allergies and tummy upset. Like human snacks, those tasty in-between-meal treats are often a big factor in putting on pounds. While treats can be an important aid during training, giving too many can cause obesity. Make sure to deduct these calories from his daily food allowance. Swap Training Treats for Healthier Alternatives Instead of high-calorie, commercially formulated treats, consider the benefits of natural foods. Natural foods , such as carrots and apples, are good, low-calorie treats. For four days in a row, give him a third less food than he was getting. If your Bulldog was eating one and a half cups of high-quality dry kibble twice a day, reduce the amount to one cup for each meal. Then check him again. Keep repeating this process until you can detect a visible waist and can feel his rib cage when pressing along his sides. Like all dogs, your Bulldog is an individual and some will be more active than others. As this study found, Bulldogs with more severe BOAS walked a shorter distance, moved more slowly and took longer to recover from exercise than those with only mild signs. However, the reality is the Bulldog is simply not capable of managing more than a low level of exercise. Hot, humid days can make breathing even more difficult. Under no circumstances should you over-exercise this breed. It can result in collapse and further health complications. If your Bulldog shows signs of overheating, has trouble walking or falls down, you should take him to the vet immediately. Caring for a Fat Bulldog Being fat is no fun for any dog. But for a Bulldog, it can greatly impact his quality of life and reduce an already short life span. Because his ability to exercise is very restricted, the best way to care for your fat Bulldog is to monitor his diet so he loses those extra pounds. Carrying around less weight can also make it easier for him to breathe and reduce the risks of injury to bones and joints. Your Bulldog is probably going to be hungry and wonder what happened to his treats. Just remember that saying no to extra calories is saying yes to a better life for your Bulldog. Do you have a fat Bulldog? References and Further Reading:. As puppies they need to consistently eat to help their growing little bodies develop bone mass. Take care providing adequate amounts of food for each meal based on the dietary needs of your bulldog. It may be hard to resist sharing some of your favorite foods. As mentioned earlier, bulldog puppies need to eat frequently. Puppies should be fed 4 times a day until they are 4 months old. At 6 months adjust your English Bulldogs meal schedule to 3 meals a day. Bulldogs reach maturity at 18 months old. At that point, meals should be spread out twice a day morning and evening and avoid free feeding. Constant access to food makes it challenging to keep your bulldog from getting fat. Every bulldog is different and may have specific dietary restrictions. If your bulldog is experiencing bloating or an upset stomach, consider purchasing limited ingredient food. A slow feeder bowl can also help prevent a bloated tummy. Splitting the portion sizes from two meals into smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can also ease bloating. About 2 cups of most typical dry dog foods are about right. But refer to the dog foods specified directions on the recommended amount. You can reduce the dry food and add some wet food as well. Be thorough in checking the food ingredients, too. English Bulldogs have specific dietary needs that should be followed. Omega 6 fatty acids will give your English Bulldog healthy skin and a beautiful coat. Omega 3s benefit heart and kidney health. They also help your English Bulldog avoid arthritis and joint pain later in life. Avoid foods full of simple carbs and filler ingredients that could make your bulldog fat. Dry foods need to rehydrate in the stomach to help the body absorb nutrients and feel full. Check if their weight by the designated age and size exceeds established English Bulldog guidelines. An adult female English Bulldog should weigh between 48 — 50 pounds and a male between 52 — 55 pounds. They should have slimmer waists compared to their hips. Overweight English Bulldogs will have more layers of fat deposits on their bodies. See also Do Coyotes Hiss? Is your pup having trouble using its back legs to scratch its ears? Have their back rolls increased? These fat deposits will also restrict them from reaching far enough to clean themselves and are going to need your help. English Bulldogs are brachycephalic and have breathing problems. When overweight, bulldogs have labored breathing and lower energy levels. These weight and respiratory problems can lead to more significant illnesses such as bronchitis. So what do you do if your English bulldog is piling on the pounds? The first thing to do is cut down on the amount of food you are giving them. Without realizing it, you might be feeding them too much for their metabolic rate. You can give them smaller, more frequent meals to speed up metabolism. Every dog loves a treat, but healthier, low-calorie treats are a better alternative to table scraps. You can share some of your healthy human food with your furry friend. Bananas, green beans, broccoli, apples, and sliced cucumbers are a few low-calorie foods you can share. Consider only giving treats after your bulldog performs a trick or obedience task. This sets a habit to listen to commands and deter begging for table scraps. Another reason your bulldog is fat could be due to an underlying medical issue. For instance, hypothyroidism is a disease that can make your bulldog fat. A trip to the vet can rule out hypothyroidism or other health problems contributing to weight gain. Maintaining a consistent exercise schedule is the main way to prevent excessive weight gain. Split walks or any type of exercise at different times in the day to help your dog keep off the pounds. Remember that bulldogs are brachycephalic and tucker out easily. English Bulldogs can dehydrate quickly and are not resilient to extreme heat or cold. Plan activities during mild temperatures or by properly dressing your bulldog for the occasion. There is a risk of hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, cancer, liver disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or heatstroke. All of these illnesses can be life-threatening, but by managing their health, the odds of developing any of these illnesses will decrease significantly. Good habits and diet promote a healthy weight and bodily health. Always ask your vet about any health concerns to rule out medical conditions contributing to their weight loss. They could have an internal parasite like worms and will then need treatment. Find a kibble that is high in meat protein. Eggs are also a good source of protein and an occasional scrambled egg is a safe choice. Adding rice or pasta with their kibble or wet food is another option. Cheese can be exchanged for treats in small amounts. If you have a puppy, remember that every puppy grows differently so if your bulldog looks a little underweight increase their kibble serving. They should eat between 1 — 3 cups of food every day. Develop a Plan and Stick to It! It is best to keep your English Bulldog at its target weight to stay healthy and prevent other diseases. Being overweight or underweight can be a sign of severe health problems. Always contact your vet if you suspect your bulldog could be suffering from health issues. A high-quality diet full of vitamins and minerals is important to their overall health. You can feed them either wet food, dry food, or a combination because they both have dietary benefits. Check the labels to ensure your pup is eating quality ingredients. Post Views: 1, Home » Blog » Fat French Bulldog? However, the good news is that with a few lifestyle changes, you can help your pup shed those extra pounds and get back to a healthy weight. What is the ideal weight of a Frenchie? French Bulldogs are known for their charming personalities and unique appearances, but did you know that they also have a specific ideal weight range? Maintaining a healthy weight for your Frenchie is crucial for their overall well-being and quality of life. Angelica, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies She is not overweight The ideal weight for a French Bulldog typically ranges from 16 to 28 pounds, with males weighing slightly more than females. One of the easiest ways to determine if your Frenchie is at a healthy weight is to perform a visual and physical examination. A healthy French Bulldog should have a defined waistline, and a visible ribcage, and be able to move comfortably without excessive panting or fatigue. On the other hand, an overweight Frenchie may have a rounded abdomen, no waistline, and appear sluggish or tired. Overfeeding Frenchies have a small body frame and a slower metabolism, which means they require fewer calories than larger breeds. Feeding your Frenchie too much food, or giving them too many treats, can lead to weight gain. Lack of exercise French Bulldogs are known for being couch potatoes, but they still need regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight. A lack of physical activity can cause weight gain and other health problems. Read our article on how much exercise a French Bulldog needs. Remington, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies He is not overweight Age As Frenchies age, their metabolism slows down, making them more susceptible to weight gain. Genetics Unfortunately, some Frenchies are genetically predisposed to gaining weight, making it more challenging for them to maintain a healthy weight. Food Calories Another factor that can contribute to weight gain in French Bulldogs is the difference in nutrient density between dog food in the United States versus dog food in Europe. In general, dog food in the United States tends to contain more calories and nutrients per serving than dog food in Europe. Jacinda and Nerissa at TomKings Puppies They are not overweight By understanding these causes of weight gain, you can take steps to prevent your Frenchie from becoming overweight. Difficulty moving: If your Frenchie has trouble climbing stairs or jumping up onto furniture, it could be a sign that they are carrying too much weight. Round belly: An overly rounded belly that sways side to side when your Frenchie walks is a sign that they may be carrying too much weight. Low energy: If your Frenchie seems lethargic or disinterested in physical activity, it could be a sign that they are carrying too much weight. Here are some tips for helping your Frenchie shed those extra pounds. Reduce Portions Reducing portions is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help your French Bulldog lose weight. Overfeeding is a common cause of weight gain in dogs, and it can be challenging to determine the right amount of food to give your Frenchie. Many pet owners make the mistake of leaving food out all day or giving their dogs large portions at mealtimes, which can lead to overeating and weight gain. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! Follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging of their dog food, and adjust as needed based on their weight, activity level, and age. Avoid giving your Frenchie table scraps or too many treats, as these can add up quickly and contribute to weight gain. Rapid weight loss can be dangerous for dogs and can lead to health complications. Sirius, Fluffy French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies He is not overweight Consider home-cooked dog food Another tip for helping your French Bulldog lose weight is to consider home-cooked dog food instead of store-bought dog food. This can be especially beneficial if your Frenchie has specific dietary needs or food sensitivities. Additionally, many store-bought dog foods can be high in calories and may not be the best option for weight loss. Daily Walks Daily walks are an essential part of helping your French Bulldog lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. If your Frenchie is not used to regular exercise, start with shorter walks and gradually increase the duration and intensity over time. This will help prevent injury and make the walks more enjoyable for your Frenchie. Alex, Fluffy French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies He is not overweight Avoid walking your Frenchie during the hottest part of the day , as they can quickly become overheated. Early morning or late evening walks are ideal, as the temperatures are cooler and there are fewer distractions. To keep your Frenchie engaged and motivated during walks, consider bringing along toys or treats. Playing fetch or other games can also help them burn more calories and build muscle. Walking the same route every day can become boring for your Frenchie. Mix it up by exploring new neighborhoods or taking different paths in your local park. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies Always keep your Frenchie on a leash during walks and avoid busy streets or areas with heavy traffic. Also, be sure to bring along water for them to drink and take breaks as needed. Remember, regular exercise is essential for helping your Frenchie lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. By making walks a regular part of their routine, you can help your furry friend stay fit, healthy, and happy. Weight loss in French Bulldogs should be gradual and done in a healthy manner to avoid health complications. With patience, commitment, and the right approach, you can help your Frenchie lose weight and live a happier, healthier life. Summary We hope this article has helped you understand the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for your French Bulldog. By following these tips, you can help your furry friend live their happiest, healthiest life. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies and their Ultimate French Bulldog Price List, or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. At BigBullDogs. We offer the best service for purchasing the perfect bulldog puppies, and we have quality studs that have set us apart as the top breeders for bulldogs. Whatever it is that you need regarding these beautiful bullies, this is the right place for you. Here are the varieties we have; What You Need to Know About English Bulldogs English Bulldogs are very distinct from the other breeds of bulldogs and are the more prevalent breed. These sturdy, muscular dogs have a cute waddle walk that directly results from their short, stubby legs. The English bulldog also has a flat-looking face, dark and low set eyes, massive and broad jaws, and fleshy cheeks and lips that give it that signature pouty and droopy look. Its short neck, thick shoulders, and barrelled chest, slightly arched back make it one breed that you can easily identify anywhere. Our standard Male English bulldogs are inches and weigh an average of 50 pounds, while the Female English bulldogs weigh about 40 pounds. All our English bulldogs have the finest textured coats and healthiest skin with a variety of colour patterns. Whether you pick a male English bulldog or female English bulldog from us, you can be assured of their wonderful demeanor and gentle disposition. The AKC recognizes over dog breeds and rated the Bulldog as 2 for the best family dog breed. They are incredible family dogs but not the best watch dogs these days. The last nine decades of domestication has turned them into couch potatoes, considerably different from their original genetic breeding that made them perfect for Bull Baiting. Nevertheless they are fantastic at lying on the couch and giving you the stink eye when you disturb their rest. Quick Guide to French Bulldogs French bulldogs were named for their origin story, which says that they were a breed of English toy bulldogs and several unidentified dog breeds. They have distinct features that make them stand out against their English counterparts, such as their pointy, bat ears. French bulldogs are small, cute dogs that are very playful and perfect for being a home pet. Regardless of whether you pick the male french bulldogs or the female French bulldogs , you get a pet that is calm, attentive, attention-loving, and a partner to you and your kids. The male french bulldog is an estimated 12 inches in height and 25 pounds in weight. On the other hand, the female french bulldog is about 11 inches and 20 pounds. The male french bulldogs are usually a bit more muscular than females and have larger heads. However both are equally affectionate and super family oriented. Not to be outdone by their British Bulldog cousin, the female french bulldogs also made the Top 10 Best Family Dog breeds list in .Looking to Adopt Bulldogs?

How Long Are Dogs Pregnant? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. According to WebMD , dogs are pregnant for roughly 63 days, which is exactly 9 weeks. This is counted from the day the dog ovulates until the day she gives birth, and is split into three trimesters of roughly 21 days each. There is some anecdotal evidence that smaller breeds tend to have a slightly longer gestation period than larger breeds. In can be a little difficult for a layman to tell whether a dog is pregnant , especially in the early stages of her pregnancy. Of course, in order for a dog to fall pregnant, she will have had to mate with an un-neutered male dog during the estrus stage of her heat cycle. Or, better yet, get her spayed. There is no blood or urine test commonly used to diagnose pregnancy in dogs, but from 3 to 4 weeks into the gestation period , a vet should be able to tell if your dog is pregnant by feeling her abdomen. A more accurate yet more costly way of checking whether a dog is pregnant is by ordering an ultrasound. This should be possible from around 21 days into the pregnancy, but not all vets offer this service. From around 6 weeks into the pregnancy, it may become obvious that your dog is carrying a litter. You might also be interested in:. Loss of appetite early stages Increased appetite later stages Increasingly affectionate Weight gain Later in the pregnancy you may also be able to observe the tiny fetuses moving around. Look for wadded up pillows and blankets in a cozy corner somewhere. Morning sickness may also be observed early in the pregnancy. For example, a firm abdomen with a loss of appetite, but without the enlarged nipples and extra affection, might be pointing towards a digestive issue. After about day 20 of the pregnancy, the vet can perform an ultrasound to confirm the presence of tiny heartbeats inside the womb. Outlines of the fetuses may also be visible. After about weeks, the vet can also feel for the puppies, known as palpating. The unborn puppies are extremely small at this point, each one about the size of a ping pong ball, and can be easily hurt by unintentionally rough hands. Once the day point has been reached, x-rays can be taken to spot the developing pups. Prior to this stage of their development, the radiation of an x-ray can be potentially dangerous for the babies. False Pregnancies Whether or not a dog becomes pregnant, hormone changes take place during the third phase dioestrus. These changes may be responsible for causing false pregnancies in some dogs. Remarkably, the signs of a false pregnancy are nearly indistinguishable from those of a real one. They may even include vomiting, an enlarged abdomen, and engorged and leaky nipples. Symptoms tend to last about a month. Dogs going through a false pregnancy may seek to act as a surrogate mom to whatever they can find. This might mean nesting and mothering stuffed animals or other toys. Conclusion Knowing your dog is expecting early on will allow you to provide the best care possible for her during the pregnancy. If puppies are not something you want in your future, recognizing the signs of being in heat will help you avoid unwanted male attention. Spaying your dog is actually the best choice in this case. You will permanently prevent pregnancy, plus help your dog avoid possible infections of the uterus, provide protection against breast cancer, and eliminate messy heats and false pregnancies. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative to 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. Whelping Prenatal Care Preparing for your Labrador bitch's labor is critical. Keep track of your dog's breeding date. After about 35 days of pregnancy, the mother's food intake will increase. She will require twice as much food as normal, increasing to three times as much when she begins nursing. The best Labrador nutritional plan is to buy an approved dry food and feed according to the package. These foods are balanced and require no supplementation. They have the extra calories needed by the pregnant or nursing mother. Do not use calcium as this can cause metabolic imbalances, and excess vitamins may be harmful to the Labrador puppies. Exercise of the pregnant bitch need not be restricted until after the first weeks of pregnancy. Day 45 At about the 45th day of her pregnancy, your lab mother should be examined by a vet. As well as assessing her overall health, your vet can x-ray your Labroador to ascertain how many puppies she is expecting. Earlier in the pregnancy, ultrasound can be used to confirm pregnancy and, after 25 days, the embryonic heart may be seen beating. Gestation The gestation period of the Labrador bitch is considered to be 63 days. Lubricate a rectal thermometer with margarine or KY jelly and insert it about an inch. Leave it in place for three minutes. You will need to determine your pregnant Labrador's bases temperature should be approx 38 degrees. Stage One of Labor During the first stage of labour the cervix dilates and uterine contractions begin. Contractions are not as easy to see as in humans but can nevertheless be very painful and distressing to the Labrador bitch. She may appear uncomfortable, restless, pacing, shivering and panting. The mother lab will probably not eat, she may even vomit and whine persistently. She may occupy herself building a nest. This is the longest stage of labour, generally lasting six to eighteen hours. By the end of this period her cervix will have completely dilated so that the puppies can pass. .Stage Two of Labor During the second stage of labour, contractions continue. The placental water sacks breaks and fluid is passed. Placentas are usually expelled after each puppy is born. Pups usually appear approx every hour after thirty minutes of straining. The bitch will lick the puppy clean and bite the umbilical cord. It is during this time that the mother bonds with her puppies and recognises them as her own. The licking of the bitch stimulates the puppies to breathe. The mother lab will likely eat the afterbirth. If the bitch does not tear away the sac and lick the pups, you should tear the sac open, clear all fluid away from the pup's nose and mouth, and vigorously rub the pup to stimulate breathing. The mother will take rests during labour and up to four hours can pass between puppies. If she is not straining then everything is usually normal and on schedule. If more than four hours pass without a puppy or the mother strains forcefully for over an hour without producing another pup, immediately take the bitch to an emergency veterinary hospital. It is not abnormal for puppies to be born rear feet first. You must do this very gently because puppies are fragile and easily hurt. Stage Three of Labor The third stage of labour is a very indistinct period for Labradors. Once all the puppies have been born, the bitch enters this third stage during which time the uterus expels the remaining placenta, blood and fluid. It is rich in antibodies which will protect the puppies for the first few months of life. Colostrum is only produced for two days and the puppy is only able to absorb its antibodies for a day or two. If their bitch did not nurse during the first 2 days of life, the puppies have a serious immunological disadvantage. Great care should be taken in cleanliness and the puppies can be vaccinated as early as 2 weeks old depending on their circumstances. Whelping Set up a comfortable whelping area for raising the puppies. The Labrador bitch should be able to come and go as she likes while the puppies remain confined. The mother dog should be isolated from all other dogs for three weeks prior to labour and 3 weeks after delivery to prevent infection. Herpes is spread by sniffing and licking between dogs. Adult Labradors rarely have any symptoms but the new or unborn puppies will die. Toileting Infant Labrador puppies are unable to take care of these matters. If necessary, use a cotton swab, tissue, or your finger to gently rub the baby's genital area. Have a tissue ready to catch the urine. Rubbing the anal area may also be necessary if the babies do not seem to be defecating as much as expected. Watch for diarrhea. Normally the puppy stool is very loose but should not be watery. It is normal for puppies to have very round bellies, however if you think the baby might be constipated, taking the temperature rectally with a normal rectal thermometer usually provides enough extra stimulation to get things back to normal. Starting Solid Food When the puppies start biting and chewing they may be ready to start on some solids. At first it may be necessary to mix solid food with a little formula and to smear a little around their mouths gently with your finger. We commence blended solid food at 3 weeks of age. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. While it is exciting, it is probably also daunting news, especially if you have never cared for a pregnant dog before. Caring for a pregnant Labrador does not have to be frightening, time-consuming, or overwhelming. What follows is a week-by-week guide for caring for your pregnant Labrador. How do you care for a pregnant Labrador? Labradors are pregnant for 9 weeks. After giving birth, your Lab will need assistance with the recovery process. While breeding Labs is a happy time, it can get complicated when things go wrong. It is important to know what to expect and to have a proper plan in place to ensure the comfort and safety of your pet. Below we cover tips and advice on caring for your pregnant Labrador, helping with the birth, and how to ensure that she has a healthy, happy recovery. Labrador Pregnancy: From Mating to Birth to Recovery In order for your Labrador to conceive, she will need to mate with an un-neutered male Labrador when she is in heat, during the Estrus stage. If you are new to breeding, and you are working with a young dog, it is important to avoid breeding too soon. Your female Labrador should have at least 2 heat cycles before she breeds, so wait until she is at least 2 years old. Breeding should not continue after the 7th year of life. The male Labrador that mates with your pet should also be around 2 years of age as most health tests cannot be carried out until the dog reaches this age. It is not a good idea to allow mating with a male Lab that is older than 7 years. In most instances, mating once is enough to get the female Lab pregnant, but if you want to make sure that she conceives, you can allow the pair to mate every 2 days, while she will allow it. It is common for the female to remain stuck to the male, but she may turn her back on him. Do not try to pull them apart or interfere at all. This is very important as doing so could cause serious injury or even death to one of the dogs. Why do dogs get stuck together after mating? A tie is actually completely natural and can last for 20 minutes to 30 minutes. This is the process of ejaculation and should not be disturbed. Is My Labrador Pregnant? If you have a bit more money to spend, you can also opt for a dog pregnancy test, but this can only read accurately from day 21 to 25 of her term. Ultrasound is also an option, but this can be quite expensive and can only be done from day 20 to 22 of her term. Pregnant Labradors do not particularly like to be touched, especially on their tummies. They will appear sleepy or lethargic and in some instances will drink a lot more water and urinate more frequently. Labrador Pregnancy Duration Your Labrador will be pregnant for a period of 9 weeks or 63 days. This period is calculated from the first day that the dog ovulates until the day that she gives birth. Labradors go through 3 trimesters, each trimester being 21 days long. While this time period is typical for most pregnancies, it is not the case for all Labradors. Labs have also been known to have a gestation period of 58 days or 68 days roughly a week on either end of the schedule. Week-by-Week Care for the Pregnant Labrador You can break down your care strategy into 9 separate weeks for your pregnant Labrador. Week 1 In week 1, mating has just occurred and the gestation period begins. The egg has been fertilized by the sperm and the egg is now a living organism. The embryo is formed, but at this stage, it is still situated very high up in the uterus. As the end of week 1 nears, the embryo makes its way downward, towards the uterine horns to spend some time suspended within the uterine liquid. During this time, everything feels normal for your pet and there is no need to make any changes to your feeding schedule or exercise routine. You may want to hold off on grooming or bathing at this stage, just to ensure that she experiences no stress. Beyond that, it should be business as usual for both you and your pet. Week 2 The initial phase of gestation, called embryogenesis, is often a confusing time for pet owners. This is unfortunately incorrect thinking. The embryos do not grow as much during this phase and so no additional nutritional supplementation should be required. If your dog appears relaxed and at ease, you can probably resume regular gentle grooming and continue taking your Lab for daily walks. Week 3 During week 3, the embryos have made a lengthy trip and finally embedded in the uterine wall lining. Here they grow in the protective sack for the remainder of the pregnancy, receiving all the vitamins and nutrients they require for healthy growth. There is no need to make any dramatic changes to your regular routine with your dog. You can feed your Lab as per normal, keep up with regular daily exercise, and keep up gentle grooming. You might notice that your dog has a bigger appetite and you can increase food quantity at this stage, but only slightly. Week 4 During week 4, around the 25th day of the pregnancy, you will need to make an appointment with your vet to confirm pregnancy. In most instances, the vet will carry out an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy, inform you of the size of the litter, and to investigate if there are any problems or abnormalities. If you do not wish to have an ultrasound, you can have blood drawn and tested to check for the presence of Relaxin. This is a hormone that is only found in the blood of a pregnant dog. At this stage, you need to think about changing your exercise routine slightly. Daily walks for a decent distance should be fine, but running, jumping, and rough play should be put on hold until after she has given birth. Your regular feeding schedule can also be very slightly increased as your Lab might start to feel more hungry during this stage. Keeping your pregnant Lab calm and comfortable in week 4 is the only thing you really need to do. Week 5 Embryogenesis ends in week 5 and so begins the second stage called the fetal phase. From around day 35, the puppy is forming. In fact, at this stage, the organs are beginning to take on their form and the total weight of the growing pup will increase exponentially. You can provide your Lab with a bit more food and you can expect a bit of weight gain too. Weight gain is not something that happens to all Labs at this stage, so do not panic if you do not notice any. The risk of miscarriage at week 5 is far less than in the prior 4 weeks. While everything is more balanced, it is still a good idea to maintain reduced exercise routines and to ensure that there is no rough play, jumping, or running. Week 6 Week 6 is going to be a challenging week for your pregnant Labrador. While the puppy is growing rapidly at this point there are already claws and a more rigid skeleton , she will need to get a bit more out of our nutrition. Unfortunately, eating regular sized meals will not be comfortable for her, so try to offer snack-sized portions more frequently throughout the day. At this stage, you need to adjust her diet to include high-energy and high-protein ingredients. You will find various dog food products on the market aimed at dogs undergoing this particular stage of pregnancy. These are jam-packed with protein and nutrients and are highly flavorful in order to encourage the dog to eat even with a decreased appetite. Week 6 is the start of the third and final trimester. The toll on her body will probably lead to your dog feeling tired, so if she appears lethargic, do not be alarmed. Just focus on making her comfortable. Week 7 In week 7, from around the day mark, you will notice that your Labrador starts to shed the hair on her abdomen. This is completely normal. At this phase, the puppies inside are almost fully formed. Their coats are now starting to grow and their skeletons and bones have hardened a great deal more through a process called ossification. Usually at this stage, during preparations for birth, parasites worms become a concern. If your pregnant Lab has worms, they will be passed on to the puppies at birth. To ensure that this does not happen, your dog will need to be dewormed. During pregnancy, it is not a good idea to deworm your pet with their regular medication. Consult with your vet to find out what is the most suitable and safest product to use during week 7 of pregnancy. During week 7 you will also need to start making preparations for the actual birth. It is important to start making preparations early as you cannot be certain that your Labrador will carry to full term. This is a spot where you can lay some blankets and cushions and where your dog will feel comfortable giving birth and rearing her pups for the first couple of days. It is also a good idea to include a heating pad so that the pups will be kept warm and that sucking will not be disturbed. Do not set up the whelping area in a busy, high-traffic area of the home. Choose a place that will be relatively undisturbed during the day. She may start visiting certain areas in the house where she feels more comfortable. She is looking for the right birthing spot. Week 8 Week 8 it should become much more apparent that your Lab is about to give birth as this is when she will start lactating. At this stage, it is a good idea to get some alternative milk, just to have at hand. Sometimes newborn puppies have trouble suckling or the mother might not lactate as expected, and then you will need to ensure that there is sufficient milk to feed the pups for her. It is also not uncommon for some people to visit their vet during this week, usually around day 50, to get an X-ray. This can be uncomfortable for the dog and is not essential, so you can skip this step if you prefer. The reason most people do this is to confirm the size of the litter so that when whelping takes place, those present at the birth can be sure when all of the pups have been delivered. Week 9 Your Labrador is soon to give birth and you need to be prepared. You should layer newspaper on the floor around the whelping area and make sure that the room temperature does not drop below 26 degrees Celsius. Something as small as a 1 degree Celsius drop can show that birth is about to happen. At this stage, you need to make sure that your Labrador is comfortable, warm and feels supported. Do not be afraid to shower her with love and affection — this is also an emotional and physically challenging time for your pet. Labrador Birth After week 9, your Labrador will most certainly go into labor. It is best not to get too involved in the process as you could cause more harm than good if you do not know what you are doing. Your only job is to keep your dog calm and provide her with emotional support while monitoring the birth. If something does not seem right, it is best to call your vet for advice and guidance. There is no hard-and-fast rule about how long it will take for a Labrador to give birth. Some Labradors calmly deliver their puppies in a few minutes, while others can take longer — sometimes up to 4 hours. Do not panic — this is not unusual If you cannot be with her the entire time, you only need to check in on your dog about every 15 minutes. Do not worry — this is normal. Puppies can be birthed head first or hind legs first. There is nothing unusual about either delivery. As each puppy emerges, they may still be in a fetal sack which the mother will tear open. If she does not, you can safely tear the sack open yourself. The placenta must come out during birth, the mother usually eats this. Each puppy will have its own placenta attached. She might not eat this immediately, so give her some time and only remove it if it appears that she has no intention of eating it a few hours after birth. You can throw these away if she has no interest in eating them. This is a behavior that is uncomfortable for many people, but the placentas are packed with nutrients and minerals and by eating them, she can renourish her system. Be aware that in some instances, a puppy will sometimes be stillborn born dead. This is simply a fact of life that you should prepare for. But not all puppies that are motionless at birth are necessarily stillborn. If any of the new pups seem a bit still when born, you can safely stimulate them by gently rubbing them with a soft, dry, plush towel. This will often get them breathing and moving. You need to contact your vet if you notice any of the following: Your dog starts giving birth before day 57 of the pregnancy. Pups get stuck in the birth canal. More than one puppy comes out at the same time. Birth of an empty fetal sack. The placenta does not come out during birth. Pups one or more are born with birth defects. The first stage of birth takes more than 4 hours. More than 3 hours pass between the birth of each puppy. There is absolutely no circumstance where you should get actively involved in the birthing process. Do not pull pups that seem to be stuck or touch the pregnant dog in her abdominal area. Helping Your Labrador Recover from Giving Birth The recovery process for your Labrador starts from the very moment that the last puppy is born. While you should not wipe or clean the puppies, you can use a warm damp cloth to gently wipe the birthing fluid and blood off your dog. She will clean the pups herself — leave her to it. You should remove the dirty paper and towels from the floor and discard them. You will need to lay fresh paper and towels as it will take a few weeks up to 8 for your Lab to stop leaking fluid. It is normal for this to happen but if the fluid is grey and has a bad odor it could be a sign that something is wrong or that there is an infection present. Keep the room clean by replacing towels and paper regularly. Pay Attention to Nutrition Your Lab will need to be assisted with physical recovery through good nutrition. Increase her food amount as she will need a bit extra to feed her growing pups. It is important to ensure that she is actually feeding her pups, so check up on this. Feeding or nursing is usually accompanied by a larger appetite. But your Labrador might also be more picky about what she will eat. This is fairly normal. It is normal for a dog that has just given birth to have no interest in food for up to 48 hours after giving birth. When she does eat, you might find that she can eat up to 4 times her regular amount. This is normal — making milk for pups takes many, many calories. Let her eat. Give Her Some Space Your Labrador will feel very protective of her pups so make sure that no children or other pets have access to them until she is comfortable and settled. She may get aggressive and even bite if she feels they are being threatened in any way. In the following weeks, your Labrador will need time to bond with her pups and return to a more normal schedule that she can keep up with. It is important to give her some space and time to do this, but have a tally or how many pups there are so that you can ensure all are accounted for at all times. Protect Against Mammary Gland Infection Once your dog is nursing her pups, there is a chance that she can still develop an infection. Mastitis is a mammary gland infection that can get quite sore and serious very quickly — it can cause death. It is important to take your pet to the vet immediately if you suspect mastitis has set in. Are you considering breeding your Labrador? Is there a litter of Labrador puppies expected in the future? Do you want to get on a waiting list for a Labrador puppy in an upcoming litter? Knowing how long labs are pregnant will help you prepare for the arrival of Labrador pups. Labrador pregnancy is a crucial stage in the life of both mother and pups; while the total gestation period is 63 days or nine weeks, it is difficult to predict the exact due date. Until then, there are various stages in the period that the Lab will go through. Knowing these stages will help you properly care for the pregnant Lab. Weeks 1 — 2 In the first couple of weeks of gestation, the Lab will not likely show any symptoms. Similar to human pregnancy, this period is when the egg is being fertilized and in the beginning stages of developing the litter. If you know your Lab has mated 7 — 14 days prior, you can predict that no visible pregnancy symptoms will show during this time. Instead, you can forecast that your Lab is possibly pregnant because of its recent mating. Weeks 3 — 4 During week three of gestation, the embryos will attach to the uterus for implantation. An increased appetite at week three indicates that your Labrador is pregnant. At week four, take your dog to the veterinarian to perform an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy. When pregnancy has been confirmed, continue to exercise your dog but do not engage in forceful or aggressive activities. It is common to play with your Lab through wrestling or tug-of-war. Exclude these activities from your lab routine that can lead to injury. Instead, continue to exercise your Lab through walks and low-impact activities. Weeks 5 — 6 The second trimester of gestation begins at week five. During week five, the embryos are developed into fetuses. This stage is relatively short compared to the remainder of the gestation period. At week six, around day 42, your Lab will enter the final trimester of pregnancy. The fetuses of the litter will resemble a dog. Your Lab will require more protein to accommodate the growing litter. Weeks 7 — 8 At week seven, take the pregnant Lab to the veterinarian for a good check. The vet can check the litter for any evidence of parasites and treat it accordingly. You will also notice your Lab may have begun shedding on her belly. This is standard preparation for the litter to the nurse. Your vet may recommend preparing an area for your Lab to give birth at this stage. Dogs commonly have a premature birth at week seven, so it is best to prepare an area in case this happens. Week eight is more evidence of impending delivery. Your Lab may have begun to lactate. Lactation usually begins the week before delivery. If lactation has not started, having a supplemental food source for the litter is imperative. A dog may be unable to produce a sufficient milk supply for her litter. To ensure the litter receives an appropriate feeding, purchase a puppy meal replacement. The 21st Century Essential Pet Puppy Meal Replacer Powder is a perfect meal substitute for ensuring the puppies receive the nutrients required for their development. Week 9 If your Lab has not given birth yet, it should be any day now. You will notice your Lab may be irritable at this time. It would help if you established an area for your Lab to give birth. A room with a cardboard box is ideal. The box should have layers of newspaper, towels, and blankets. It is imperative during this stage to keep your Lab calm and rested. Your Lab can easily feed off of your emotions and temperament. If you are stressed, she will be stressed. Labor and delivery need to be as calm and relaxing as possible. Making your Lab comfortable will help give her a healthy, calm delivery. Recovery Making the Labrador matriarch as comfortable and clean as possible should be the number one priority once the litter has been birthed. Continually remove dirty blankets or towels and replace them with clean ones. This cycle will need to be frequently repeated to keep the mother happy and clean. This process lets you notice if the mother is discharging a dark fluid. A dark fluid accompanied by an odor can mean the mother has developed an infection. The mother will need to rest with her puppies, so try not to overcrowd her or handle the puppies. Recovery for the mother is typically quick. She may be pickier with her food, so check with your vet to determine the best food to feed your new Lab mother. Once the mother has food she likes, she should increase her appetite to make up for the number of calories her puppies are consuming from her through her milk supply. The mother should look happy, healthy, and alert! If this is not the case, contact your vet for treatment. Knowing what to expect during each weekly stage will help you give your Lab the proper care and prepare you for the upcoming litter of Labrador pups! What should you do to prepare for the arrival of your new puppy? We will discuss knowing if a lab is pregnant, the symptoms of pregnancy in Labradors, and how to care for your pregnant Labrador. We will also provide some helpful tips on preparing for the arrival of your new puppy! So, how can you tell if your Labrador is pregnant? There are a few key signs to look out for: 1. This is due to the increased production of the hormone progesterone. Your dog may gain weight, and her appetite may increase. This is normal and nothing to worry about. However, if you notice that she is gaining a lot of weight or her appetite is rising more than usual, you should take her to the vet to ensure everything is okay. Additionally, if she starts to lose weight or her appetite decreases, this could be a sign of trouble, and you should also take her to the vet. This is perfectly normal, as her body is working hard to prepare for the upcoming labor. Your dog may become more lethargic and sleepy as the due date approaches. During this time, ensuring that your dog has plenty of rest and a comfortable place to sleep is essential. Your dog may Nest — that is, she may start to collect soft bedding and carry it around in her mouth 8. Your dog may have mood swings and become more sensitive to noise and touch. Your dog may start to urinate more frequently. How to Care for Your Labrador During Pregnancy If you notice any of these signs, you must take your dog to the vet for confirmation of pregnancy. Your vet will be able to determine how many puppies your dog is carrying and when they are due. Once you have confirmed that your Labrador is pregnant, there are a few things you will need to do to prepare for the arrival of your new puppies. First, you must create a whelping box — a safe, warm place where your dog can deliver her puppies. You will also need to ensure you have plenty of soft bedding, food, and water. Having a few toys on hand is also a good idea, as puppies love to play! Your vet can recommend good quality puppy food to provide all the nutrients your dog needs during this time. You should also avoid giving your dog any table scraps or human food, as this can cause problems for her and the puppies. She may become more restless and may start to Nest. It is essential to let her do this, as it helps her to prepare for labor. You should also ensure that you can take her to the vet if she goes into labor early or if anything seems wrong. Once your puppies are born, they will need much care and attention. You will need to ensure they are kept warm and dry and fed and watered. You will also need to clean them up after they go to the bathroom. Puppies are very delicate, so it is essential to handle them with care. If you take good care of your pregnant Labrador and prepare for the arrival of your new puppies, everything should go smoothly! Congratulations on becoming a puppy parent! As a dog lover, you may wonder how many puppies are born to a pregnant female Labrador. The number of kittens born into a litter will vary, but luckily researchers provide us with the average litter size you should expect. Labradors do not lose their famous charm even after they grow up, and the cuteness of their puppies is arguably unmatched among dog breeds. So, how many puppies do Labradors give birth to? A study by the American Kennel Club reveals that Labradors typically give birth to five to ten puppies in a single litter. According to the same study, litters vary due to age, genetic diversity, Size, and diet. The first litter of a female Labrador usually is smaller than average. As we have already stated, the number of puppies in a litter will significantly vary. Your pet can give birth to anywhere from one to even twelve puppies. Your veterinarian can take an x-ray scan of the pregnant female to find out the exact number of puppies present. The vet does this by counting the number of skeletons in her belly, which is a great way to figure out the actual litter size. This will help prepare the kennel size when the Labrador finally gives birth. The Largest Labrador Litter on Record Not that you have a general idea of how many puppies you should expect when your pet Lab gets pregnant, but you are probably asking yourself what the maximum number of puppies they can have is. In , a black Scottish Labrador named Anne shocked the vet when she safely delivered 15 puppies in all! A recent case happened in April when a labrador named Bella gave birth to 14 puppies, missing just one record set in .Factors Affecting Labrador Litter Size In this section, we delve deeper into some of the more crucial factors that affect litter size. Age Labradors usually maintain their fertility throughout their lives. However, the litter size decreases as they age, which is expected. It is generally accepted that Labradors are most fertile between the ages of two and five. However, regardless of her age, the first litter is usually smaller than the subsequent ones. Breed Size Smaller breeds typically produce a litter with fewer puppies, while larger breeds give birth to bigger litter sizes, and this trend even applies to dogs of the same breed. For example, a Labrador weighing 45 pounds may only give birth to five or six puppies, while another weighing 70 pounds may give birth to ten puppies or more. Health and Nutrition If your Labrador is healthy and in a happy environment, she is more likely to give birth to more healthy puppies. The Labrador needs to be in top condition health-wise for her and her puppies to survive the process of whelping and birthing. The male Labrador should also be healthy to avoid any complications. Gene Pool Diversity A small gene pool is brought about when closely related dogs breed together. When you breed dogs from diverse genetic backgrounds, this results in bigger puppy litter. Similarly, a smaller genetic pool will result in fewer puppies. The Size of a litter is usually out of your control, but when optimal conditions are in place, this can result in more puppies being born into a litter. The first step is to feed your Labradors food that is healthy throughout their lives. A healthy diet will optimize the health of the Lab resulting in more puppies. When a pregnant Labrador is fed a low-carb diet, this increases the chances of fetal death and an increased chance of stillbirths. To avoid this, you should consult your vet to devise a meal plan that ensures the female Labrador gets enough macro and micronutrients. Next, you want to ensure that your Labrador gets enough exercise and playtime. This will allow her to maintain a healthy and ideal body weight. Dog pregnancy tests. Do you want to breed from your dog? But the best place to begin that journey is with this article : Should you let your Labrador have puppies. The above article will help you. How long are dogs pregnant? Dog pregnancy is often considered to last for around nine weeks. The majority of litters across all breeds of dog are born on the 63rd day after ovulation. In a team at Utrecht University in the Netherlands included 31 Labrador retrievers in a study of how breed and litter size affects dog pregnancy length. They found that because Labradors tend to carry large litters they also have slightly shorter pregnancies — .In this case, expect her to give birth 55 to 64 days eight to nine weeks after mating. Why the wide range? Let me explain… Predicting the gestation period of dogs As for all mammals, dog pregnancy begins when sperm fertilizes an egg. Dog sperm can live inside a dog for up to ten days, and whilst it does gradually degrade and become less likely to fertilize an egg, it still means that a girl mated ten days before she ovulates could still get pregnant. How is that possible? Ongoing research at Nippon University in Japan suggests that eggs which are fertilized late then progress through the early stages of development more quickly, so that the puppies are still born a predictable amount of time after ovulation. Now you may be wondering how many babies you might expect. How many puppies is my dog likely to have? In , scientists at the Norwegian School of Veterinary Science conducted a retrospective study of over ten thousand dog litters, to find out what factors influence litter size. Their study included Labrador litters, which ranged from one to thirteen puppies, and an average of seven. They found that litter size is closely linked to breed size: Labradors are large breeds, so they tend to have large litters. By comparison, toy breeds and small breeds had an average of three or four puppies in a litter. They also found that litter size decreased as the mother got older, and that litters conceived by artificial insemination produced fewer puppies than natural mating. Studies have also shown that litter sizes decrease when dogs are more closely related. So what happens next? Recognizing signs of pregnancy in dogs A female dog is unlikely to show any signs of pregnancy in the first couple of weeks. Only once the embryo attaches to the lining of the womb do the cascade of hormone changes associated with pregnancy begin, and bring with them their tell-tale symptoms of pregnancy. What dog pregnancy symptoms might you expect to see? Do dogs suffer from morning sickness for example? Do dogs get morning sickness? Well, just like in humans those pregnancy hormones might can make a female dog feel a bit nauseous. So she might go off her food, and even vomit a little. Everything happens in fast forward compared to a human pregnancy through, so morning sickness in dogs only lasts a few days. Other signs of pregnancy Some female dogs show signs of tiredness or listlessness in very early pregnancy because of all the hormones being released. At around 30 days you might notice that her nipples have started to change in color and size. At this time you might also see a discharge of thin clear mucus from her vagina. You should have your dog checked out by your vet if a discharge has blood in it, or if the mucus is not clear or has a bad smell. But just like in the first two months of a human pregnancy, the first couple of weeks is often outwardly fairly uneventful. And despite their best efforts at symptom spotting a Labrador might not show any early signs to those who are watching her closely. There are several ways of confirming pregnancy in dogs — vets are happy to discuss these if necessary. Abdominal palpation is most effective for detecting pregnancy in the fifth week after mating, when the embryos are a little over an inch long three centimeters , but not yet cushioned by amniotic fluid. Someone with a lot of experience might be able to detect embryos by palpation as early as three weeks after mating and as late as six weeks. When this happens, the vet might recommend one of the following alternatives for confirming pregnancy. They are reliable and you can be reassured from as early as three weeks after mating. Many breeders now use these scans routinely. The great advantage of an x-ray is that different skeletal structures, for example the skull, the spine and the teeth, become visible in a very specific order and at very predictable times. Radiography is also the most reliable way of counting how many pups a dog is carrying. Can you give a dog a pregnancy test? So there are multiple of ways of finding out if a dog is pregnant, but is it ever as simple as getting them to pee on a stick? Since Pfizer have produced a pregnancy test for dogs called the Witness Relaxin test, which detects elevated levels of relaxin hormone secreted by the placenta during pregnancy. However, the test needs a sample of blood plasma, so requires a visit the vet to have blood drawn and the plasma separated. These tests can usually detect pregnancy from about days after mating But be warned — they can also produce a false negative result. If you are pretty sure your dog should be pregnant the test should be repeated after a week. The 4 week pregnant dog: days 21 — 27 The fourth week of pregnancy is an exciting time to be a dog embryo. This also the week when embryos are most vulnerable to damage which could impair their development later. The 5 week pregnant dog: days 28 — 34 The mother Labrador to be, and her pups, have made it past the halfway mark! Mom might also start to become uncomfortable and want to rest more. A clear discharge from her vagina at this stage is also no cause for concern. Some female dogs might also begin shedding their hair on their tummies this week as well. And the development of her breasts will be clear to see. This is a completely normal part of the body preparing for birth. As her due date draws near, mom starts to produce colostrum — the nutrient rich first milk her puppies need in their earliest days. They are ready to come out into the world, and the nine week pregnant girl will be nesting in preparation for the impending birth. You can start watching for the signs that mom is going into labour. Canine Labor There are a few behaviors which indicate that birth is imminent. This can last for six to twelve hours, or even longer, while the cervix dilates and prepares for delivery. Human moms even show some of the same signs like being restless and losing their appetite. Even nesting behavior — an urge to clean and tidy up the house. Watch for the following signs: restless and pacing, followed by falling asleep. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Are you in the process of breeding your dog, or do you already have a pregnant dog at home? Luckily, dogs are very self-sufficient and know how to handle pregnancy and give birth on their own. However, you should know what to expect and be prepared to help in case of an emergency. Dog Pregnancy Calendar — All Stages Of Dog Pregnancy The average length of canine pregnancy is 63 days, but depending on the breed, dogs can be pregnant from 58 to 68 days. Compared to people, dogs are pregnant for a very short time, so you need to know in advance what to expect to support a healthy pregnancy. Check out our whelping checklist for supplies you might need for whelping a litter of pups. Below, you will find a comprehensive guide through all nine weeks of canine pregnancy, from the moment your dog conceives to the actual delivery. A Week-By-Week Dog Pregnancy Calendar Whether you are trying to get your dog pregnant or you already have a pregnant dog at home, congratulations! Caring about a pregnant dog and raising the puppies are the most exciting things you are going to experience as a pet owner. Week One Within the first seven days, after the mating has taken place, ovulation and fertilization happen. During this process, the fertilized eggs will travel down from the uterus to get implanted into the uterine wall. Bear in mind, that ovulation is necessary for successful breeding, but it can be hard to determine whether your dog is ovulating or not. At this stage, you should continue to feed the best dog food and exercise, and play with your dog the same as before she became pregnant. Furthermore, there is no need to include any nutritional supplements at this point, unless your vet says otherwise. From this point on, you should measure your dog regularly and keep a close eye on her weight. However, if your dog starts to lose weight, the puppies may be in danger, so call your vet right away and take your dog for a checkup. These are still the early days of the pregnancy, so you can continue exercising and playing with your dog as you did before. There is also no need to add any nutritional supplements at this point if none were prescribed by your vet. Inside this protective membrane, they will receive all the nutrients necessary for proper growth and development. However, some dogs start to have a bigger appetite around this time, so monitor your dog for an increase. If your dog seems more ravenous than before, you can increase her portion sizes a bit, to satisfy the needs of the growing puppies. Week Four The fourth week of the dog gestation calendar is the time when things really start to happen! Furthermore, your vet will also be able to do an ultrasound, so you can get a rough idea of how many puppies your dog will have. Therefore, you should take your dog to the vet by the middle of the fourth week, even if she looks completely healthy. Besides checking the mom and telling you what to expect in terms of litter size, your vet will also be able to spot any developmental deformities in the puppies. By the end of the fourth week, the puppies will grow to around one and a half centimeters long. Their faces will start to take shape, and they will also start to develop eyes and a spine. And since the fourth week is one of the most formative stages of the pregnancy, the puppies are at the highest risk of sustaining developmental abnormalities. So instead of taking your dog for a morning run, opt for a long walk and avoid high-intensity exercises. Week Five By the fifth week, embryogenesis—the first stage of gestation—ends and the second one begins. At this time, puppies start to form organs and gain weight quickly, and are from now on called fetuses. The good news is that, from this point on, the puppies are less prone to sustaining any developmental issues. During this week, puppies start to develop individual toes and their claws and whiskers also start to grow. They will also develop their male and female organs, so your vet will be able to tell you the genders of the puppies with an ultrasound. At this stage of the pregnancy, the puppies will start to put on weight more quickly, so your dog will start to gain weight considerably as well. Consequently, you will need to start feeding your dog more and adjust her diet accordingly. Instead of two main meals, start feeding several smaller meals to your dog. Your vet will be able to tell you how much food she needs at this stage of pregnancy and might even recommend the best food for pregnant dogs. At this point, the puppies will get their distinctive features and their bones and skeleton start to become solid. Start feeding your dog with high-quality dog food formulated for pregnant dogs, to avoid nutrition and calorie deficiency. Some dogs have a decreased appetite during this stage, due to the discomfort caused by the pregnancy. However, your dog will need a lot of calories from the food to support the still-growing puppies. If your dog experiences a decrease in appetite, start feeding several smaller meals or leave food and encourage free feeding. Week Seven Seven weeks into the pregnancy, the puppies will start to develop hair and their bones will solidify even more. At this point, your dog may start to shed hair from her belly as she is getting ready for the big day. The seventh week of a dog pregnancy calendar should be marked as the time you start preparing for the birth of your new puppies. This is the best time to set a whelping area for your dog! Choose a quiet place away from foot traffic, where your dog will feel safe and comfortable bringing her new puppies into the world. The designated birthing area must be warm and easy to clean. At this time, your vet can do an x-ray to confirm the exact size of the litter. From this point on, your dog can go into labor at any time, so make sure that everything is prepared. Now is your time to make any final adjustments to the whelping area and to see if you have everything you need. Most dogs start lactating a week before labor, thus giving you a good guess of when the puppies will be born. To make your dog more comfortable during whelping, you may consider trimming the hair around her nipples and rear quarters. This will keep the mess at a minimum and make the birthing and nursing process a lot easier for your dog. Week Nine At this point, your dog might start whelping at any time, so be ready to welcome the new puppies. Your dog will start nesting in her whelping box and might become restless and anxious as she prepares for birth. And once your dog goes into labor, try not to show any signs of stress and just be there to provide comfort and support. Remember, most dogs know what to do and can manage everything on their own. To put your mind at ease, you can notify your vet that your dog started whelping and have him on standby in case your dog needs any help. Most dogs will have a noticeably larger belly approximately 40 days into the pregnancy. At this point, it will become clear to everyone that the dog is pregnant. In most cases, a dog pregnancy lasts between eight to nine weeks. If you know when your dog mated, you can easily calculate her due date and use a dog pregnancy tracker to mark all stages of pregnancy. A healthy pregnancy in dogs ranges from 58 to 68 days with an average of 63 days. So if everything is as it should be, your dog will give birth to puppies within the first week of the third month. Dogs can whelp 54 days into the pregnancy, but this is considered an early delivery. Dogs who carry too many puppies for their size go into early labor, but unfortunately, these puppies rarely survive. If you suspect that your dog is showing signs of going into labor earlier than the expected due date, call your vet for advice. You should make all the necessary preparations for an early delivery to be on the safe side. And if your dog starts to give birth early or shows signs of distress during delivery, call your vet right away. A healthy canine pregnancy can last from 58 to 68 days, but the average delivery date is 63 days after mating. Have you ever had a pregnant dog? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Tunnel Dash The Weaving Wonder Games for German Shepherds can include everyday objects that you can find around your house and are fun activities that give your German Shepherd mental stimulation and exercise. Try a few of these activities for German Shepherds and see which ones your dog loves! Hide-and-Seek Treats Hiding their food helps your dog use their noses to explore. Mental stimulation with a food hide-and-seek game keeps your dog sharp by using their noses source. You can use this game indoors or out in your yard or garden. Now hide a few pieces around the house or yard while they watch, and encourage them to find the food. German Shepherds have a keen sense of smell, and many learn to track. Puppy Puzzles This German Shepherd activity teaches your dog to use their nose and brain together. Food puzzles are activities that keep your dog working for their reward. Use this stimulating mind game to introduce them to puzzles. Next, place their food in the puzzle. Show them how to find food and encourage them to find the food on their own. If you want to feed your dog the right foods, then read this list of healthy, tasty treats for German Shepherds. Break your treats into small pieces, no larger than the size of your pinkie nail to keep their nutrition in check. The Special Delivery activity uses common mailing items as hiding places for their treats. Use a clean box that came in the mail. Place pieces of kibble or treats inside the brown paper wrap. Squish the brown paper or paper towels together to wrap around the kibble. Encourage your dog or puppy to look for their food. When they are finished, refill the brown paper packaging or paper towel balls and start again. Another simple and easy game to put together is a bottle treat dispenser. The bottle slides and moves on the floor to make the game more interesting for both puppies and adults. And, of course, supervise your German Shepherd during games at all times. Save a large water bottle. Make sure it is clean and dry. Let your dog turn, paw, and shake the bottle so the kibble falls out. Repeat when empty to finish their meal. Replace the bottles regularly as they become dirty or worn. The larger the opening, the easier the food will fall out. Brain Training for Dogs Brain Training your German Shepherd keeps them mentally stimulated and physically engaged, ensuring they have a pawsome time! Brain training your German Shepherd is an activity that increases their mental stimulation and is fun for both you and your dog! You can use brain training to help teach your German Shepherd manners and basic obedience at the same time. But… You can read more on my helpful review: Brain Training for Dogs Review to learn all about this engaging playtime program. Setup this game by doing this: Place a few bits of their food or treats in the muffin tins and a ball over the top to cover the cups. You can leave some muffin tins without a tennis ball to make the game easier to start or for puppies learning about brain games. When your dog is finished, refill the muffin tins. To make the game interesting, leave some tins without food, but still cover the compartment with a tennis ball. This makes your dog use his nose more and gives them a surprise when they find the food in some compartments but not in others. Frozen Kong Delight By far, my German Shepherd enjoys this mental exercise the best, as the food seems to last longer and keep her quiet. Get out your trusty, indestructible German Shepherd-proof Kong toy. Place a mixture of moistened kibble in the center. I like to add a few spoonfuls of unflavored Greek yogurt mixed into the food for extra encouragement. Set this in the freezer for a few hours to stiffen up. When frozen, give it to your dog for a tasty mealtime surprise! If you buy a few Kongs, you can keep them in your freezer for times when you want or need to keep your German Shepherd busy and entertained. Trust me, the Kong toys make for engaging playtime ideas for German Shepherds and can stand up to their rough play. Tupperware Surprise These old plastic food storage containers make useful indoor activities for your German Shepherd. Put them to use with this game. Place several pieces of plastic food storage containers upside down, without their lids, over a handful of kibble. You can put the food storage containers all in one room or place them in multiple rooms for a seek-and-find activity. Encourage your dog to go find the kibble, and help them find the first few to get them started. They must figure out how to turn the container over with their paws or nose, which is tricky for some dogs, especially puppies. Use this mental exercise inside or outside, depending on the weather. This game also uses empty cardboard tubes from paper towels or toilet paper. Place their kibble on brown shipping or craft paper, or even a clean paper towel. Next, wrap the kibble up securely and place the wrapped kibble inside the cardboard tubes. Encourage your dog to explore the tubes. You can see my German Shepherd enjoying the game of finding treats in cardboard tubes. As simple as this sounds, the activity keeps my German Shepherd busy as she delicately removes the kibble from the boxes or toilet roll tubes filled with kibble and paper. No worries. This game really gets an active Shepherd moving and keeps them occupied! Start slowly and toss one ball away from you. While your dog goes to chase that ball, get another ball toy ready in your hand. As they return the first ball, toss the second ball across the grass for them to have another sprint. Only play a handful of rounds, and then let your dog have a rest and some water to avoid them overheating. Instead, use these summer activities to exercise your German Shepherd in the heat. Place their kibble meal or another dry treat inside the toy to help provide a challenge to their minds and bodies. As your dog chases the toy around and works to get their reward, they burn calories and have to use their brain power to work the food loose. You can wash this treat dispensing toy, so if your dog is a first-class drooler, you can easily clean their germs away. This is a mentally-stimulating game for an indoor German Shepherd activity for a puppy or even a bored German Shepherd. Tunnel Dash Collapsible tunnels can make for an exciting and fun backyard activity. Owners of our high-energy breed will appreciate teaching their dog both indoor agility to challenge their minds and outdoor agility to challenge their minds and use their energy! You may have to entice your dog through the tunnel by placing them at one end and having them wait while you walk to the other. But German Shepherds love this type of stimulation and are expert tunnel runners! The Weaving Wonder From German Shepherd puppies to seniors, almost every dog enjoys learning how to become a weaving wonder! If your dog enjoys high-energy activities, then add to your agility set by using these easy-to-set up weave poles. Your athletic Shepherd will love to use their brains and their agility to figure out the best way to quickly maneuver through the weave poles. Begin by walking ahead of your dog through the weave poles and have them follow you. Reward them frequently in between poles in the beginning. When they make it to the end, celebrate and reward them again. Eventually, have your GSD make more turns of the poles before the reward. Learn all about the right ways to exercise your German Shepherd for complete health and fitness. Your dog or puppy has many senses they need to use daily. They can see, hear, touch, smell, and think. Many dogs living in our modern, busy lives lack mental stimulation. In the wild, your dog would work alongside their pack or alone to track down prey using their senses. They would then plan an attack, using their mental abilities. Using all these senses during play helps your dog gain confidence in themselves and in their abilities. New experiences ignite portions of their brains to keep them engaged in their environments. An engaged dog is a happy, better-behaved dog! Include 2 or 3 new activities for your German Shepherd a week to begin. You ready for more? From nutrition tips to exercise tricks, this guide has it all. Trust me, your German Shepherd will be wagging their tail with joy! So, what are you waiting for? Grab your free guide now and continue fun adventures and activities with your German Shepherd! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. They are also very intelligent and need lots of mental stimulation. Many German shepherds are involved in dog sports, work in law enforcement, for the military, and other agencies. However, many more are simply family pets of those that love the breed. Playing games also fulfills another requirement of German shepherd ownership, which is spending lots of time with the dog. German shepherds require lots of socialization and companionship. As a herding dog, they were bred for their loyalty and ability to protect a herd. This characteristic causes them to form a strong bond with their owner and they do best spending time with their family. Some games that German shepherds love, will burn off some energy, and as a bonus give their brain a zap of dopamine are: 1. Fetch Although basic, German shepherds have a high prey drive and most love to play fetch. Playing fetch is also great because it burns off a lot of pent up energy. You can kick up fetch a notch by alternating toys or only using favorite toys. Try throwing a treat stuffed toy, Frisbee, plastic stick, and toys that bounce and tumble like Westpaw Zogoflex and Kongs. Hide and Seek Like the name implies, you hide a toy and your dog finds it. German Shepherds have scent receptors so they are naturally adept at this game. It is especially good for dogs that can no longer engage in high impact activities. For those that can, reward the dog by throwing the toy then hide it again. Urban Agility Urban agility is a noncompetitive fun sport that can accommodate nearly all dogs. You simply set up an obstacle course and balancing equipment in the yard and train your dog to weave, jump, balance, and more. There are urban agility trainers, books, articles, and YouTube videos to give you ideas on what your dog might enjoy. Tug Teach your dog to tug which means, tugging enthusiastically, releasing the tug toy, and bringing the tug back after you release it. Tug should be fun and exciting for both owner and dog and it can be used as a training tool, to burn off energy, as a reward, or just for fun. There is a huge variety of tugs on the market so no doubt there is a tug for all dogs. Search and Rescue This game reinforces the stay command and also challenges your dog. This game works well with more than one person who can help restrain the dog or when multiple hide. Nosework Teach your dog to find objects, food, or scents using essential oils. As your dog gains more confidence, you hide the scents in more challenging locations. You can learn more at the National Association for Canine Scent Work and there are books and videos available on the subject. This game is super rewarding because it is very mentally challenging. Pick Up Time You can teach your dog to pick up nearly any toy and drop it into any basket or box. This game is also useful for teaching your dog to pick up their own toys or other objects on command. Relatively easy to learn, this game is immediately rewarding and can continuously switch up as you teach your dog to pick up and put away new things. Have fun with these game ideas and be sure to share with your family and friends. Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. For the most part, you let the puppy decide his own activities at this stage. Your puppy, at this tender age, does not need exercise; he needs activity. Indoor play consists of informal activities in which you educate your German Shepherd to avoid dangerous behavior while satisfying his need to be active. At this stage, it is more about mental activity games and basic training as opposed to physical activity. This nifty little toy is excellent for young pups. Here are some low-impact games that are appropriate for a German Shepherd puppy at 8 weeks of age: Puppy the Explorer Let your GSD explore the indoors while keeping a close eye on him. This also presents an excellent opportunity to teach him to follow you. You must do this organically. Wait for him to get in his explorer mode and start walking beside him. Remember not to exceed a period of 10 minutes of exercise in the second month and stop whenever your pup shows signs of being tired. The minute mark is the maximum duration, not the minimum. Initially, your puppy will get tired after a few minutes of walking around and exploring. In each subsequent week, he will be engaged for a few more minutes. You might need to use jazz hands to get his curiosity. Once your pup starts following your palm with his head, simply tap his nose and hug him. At this point, you might be tempted to start moving your arm out of his reach to prolong the game. Follow the Wiggling Toy This is the ideal transition exercise that I would start around the tenth week of indoor play. For this, I recommend the Pacific Pups Rope Toys Set from Amazon, not just because it is budget-friendly but because you can use toys of different sizes as your German Shepherd puppy continues to grow. Once you have him sitting close to you, introduce the rope toy and place it on the floor with your hand holding onto one end. Your job then is to make sure he takes at least four steps before he catches the rope toy. Again, this is a high-engagement, low-impact exercise that builds up the foundation for medium-impact activities later on. Jaw and Bodyweight Exercises Recommended age: 3 — 4 months Maximum duration: minutes per day, twice a day Risk factor: low Things to avoid: sprints Your German Shepherd puppy is now three months old; he is building on his training according to the standard puppy training methods, and you can start to interact with him more physically. Still, his growth plates remain open, and you still need to avoid exercises that strain the joints, especially ones located around long bones like limbs. At the same time, your German Shepherd has more energy and may want to exercise more than is good for him. As a result, your role has shifted. Here, instead of letting your puppy have the toy once he follows it and grabs hold of it, you play a small tug of war with him. If your GSD is used to getting the toy after following it, he may get too defensive when you tug it. I recommended the toy set for this reason precisely. The final thing worth remembering about this game is that you always lose! You place the rope toy on the ground and let your German Shepherd puppy follow it as you move it around. Once he grabs hold of it, you use your arm strength to keep it in place. Do not try to pull it too hard. It is also essential that you gradually move up the tug of war in time and position. Gradually you can move the tug toy slightly above the ground. Throughout this, make sure your dog is on a leash because you do not want to encourage grabbing and dashing. Ultimately, you have to let your puppy win! As soon as you release the toy, he gets to have it for a while. This is also the best stage to train him to release objects on command. Make sure your GSD is on a long leash before you start this activity. Associating running with playtime is risky. A long loose leash allows you to bring him back to you gently. Be prepared to spend a lot of time negotiating with your GSD. I suggest playing tug before this because it builds trust. When you roll the ball on the floor, your puppy will get it. You cannot expect him to bring the toy to you. You simply tug the leash gently and bring him close to you. Then, you hold the ball in place. You should not pull it away. That will only cause your German Shepherd to bite down on it harder. When you have it firmly in place, your dog will try to wrestle it free but will eventually let the ball go. You can encourage this by just talking to him in a reassuring tone and using training treats. As soon as he lets go of the ball, put it on the ground and roll it. As GSDs take pleasure in high-engagement activities, the activity itself becomes a reward. In my experience, this will always be a mixed bag. Some dogs never stop giving pushback at the retrieval stage, while others let go of the ball the moment you extend your arm toward it. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. Some owners have large yards and several family members that can help keep the dog busy, but it can be a struggle to keep finding something to do if there are only one or two people in your household. If this sounds like your situation, keep reading while we list several activities you can do with your German Shepherd to keep it happy and well behaved. Fetch Frisbee, ball, throwing toy Plenty of room Fetch is the most basic dog game that almost everyone knows. To play this game, all you need is a Frisbee, ball, or any toy that you can throw so your dog can chase it and bring it back. Balls and Frisbees work well because you can get a good distance with them, which will keep the dog more active. These toys can cause your dog to expend a large amount of energy in a short amount of time without you needing to put in a lot of effort. There are even accessories you can purchase to help you throw the ball further with less effort. The downside to this game is that you need a lot of room for the dog to run. To play this game, you only require a piece of rope with knots in it so you and the dog can get a grip. Many commercial ropes will work perfectly, and there are many varieties available, so you can find one that is comfortable to use. To play, let the dog grab one end with its teeth, and you take the other. It will also help your dog expend energy quickly, especially if you are in good health, and can make the dog work harder to keep the rope. It only requires a fraction of the space fetch does, but it does require considerable strength to play against a full-grown German Shepherd for more than a few minutes. Obstacle Training Obstacles Plenty of room Obstacle training can be a lot of fun for you and your dog. It will help your pet burn off excess energy quickly and sharpen your skills as a trainer. To play obstacle training, you will need plenty of room to set up obstacles. The obstacles can be anything, but we recommend starting with something simple like a piece of wood or a chair. Put the obstacle between you and the dog and call it toward you. If it jumps the barrier, give it a treat and try again. The downside to obstacle training is that it will go a lot easier for someone with experience training, and it can take up a lot of room in your yard if there are several obstacles. Wrestling Strength As strange as it may seem, wrestling is one of the best ways to bond with your German Shepherd because few other activities cause you to be in such close proximity with your attention focused on each other. The dog will climb all over you to try to get the ball, and you can flip your pup over gently to get the belly which will get it all riled up. It has a long pole that you hold. Attached to the pole is a long string that has a toy tied at the end. The toy usually squeaks, and you use it almost like a fishing pole to dangle the toy in front of the dog to get it to chase it. Our dogs get a lot of enjoyment from the Flirt Pole , and the only downside is that the dog chews them, so you will need to replace them every few weeks. Mind Games for German Shepherds 6. To get started, hide a treat in plain sight, then let your dog see you hide another behind a wall. Try a few more easy hides, and when your dog starts to catch on, you can make them a little more difficult. The easiest way to play this game is to wait until your dog is out of sight and then call them but quickly run and hide before they get there. When the dog arrives, they will be confused and begin to search for you and will usually continue looking until they find you. As the dog catches on, they will begin to check past hiding spots first, so you will need to be clever. Call your dog over and watch as they turn them over looking for the treat. As they get more skilled, they will find the treat faster, so you can add even more cups. Ring Stack Ring stacking toy If you have children or know someone that does, there is a good chance that you are familiar with the ring stacking toys for babies. You can also use these toys with your German Shepherd and learn to stack the rings in the right order with a little patience. The best way to play is to start with only a few rings and add more as your dog catches on. After some time, put the item on the floor and instruct your dog to fetch it. After several months, you will be amazed at how many items your dog knows by name. Some are extremely easy and only require the dog to step on a lever, while others are quite complex, requiring multiple steps to unlock the treat. It burns off excess energy extremely fast and helps keep your dog in top shape. The other games are all fun, but they take longer and require a bigger commitment of your time. Luckily, you can play as many games as you want, so you can play fetch every day and do some wrestling on your days off work. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this list and found the answers you need. If we have helped you keep your dog entertained, please share these eleven best games to play with your German Shepherd on Facebook and Twitter. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement. Puppies German Shepherd puppies are incredibly playful. So how do you play with a German Shepherd puppy? This article will examine the best way to play and entertain your German Shepherd puppy, providing example games to play and activities to do. The best way to play with a German Shepherd puppy is through short bursts of low-impact physical activity. This will keep their growing bones and joints safe from injury and malformation. Additionally, play games that sharpen their motors skills and hone their natural abilities. All dogs have a maximum tolerance for exercise, and playtime counts towards that limit. Most will play for as long as you allow them. Thus, you need to pay attention and keep them from overexertion, especially during activities that involve plenty of physical movement. In general, young dogs should have two sessions of exercise per day where each session is about 5 minutes per month of age. So, a German Shepherd puppy of around 2 months old should only get 10 minutes of playtime twice a day while a 6-month-old pup can tolerate two minute sessions. By the time your GSD is a year old, they should be able to tolerate hour-long sessions of play or exercise. Keep in mind, however, that these are general guidelines. You need to keep an eye on your dog and determine their own tolerance to avoid serious consequences like overheating and overexertion. Like children, individual dogs have different preferences. Use play as a means to strengthen their motor skills, nurture their sense of curiosity, and build their confidence. The best toys for young German Shepherds are interactive ones that stimulate their senses. Especially exciting are treat dispensers and squeaky toys while teething toys provide tons of comfort. They also love balls that they can grasp and chase after. They also love playing with people and other animals. Doing this often will help prove each of these commands and ensure they will obey no matter the situation. Have fun with the Obedience Shuffle by randomly asking for each command and rewarding your dog every time they obey. Make it increasingly difficult for them by adding distractions in between. Hide-and-Seek Hide-and-Seek is an excellent game to play with your German Shepherd puppy because it requires some concentration, sniffing, and running. It also primes them to think of you as the best reward. To play this, ask your dog to stay while you hide. Release them from their stay position and respond with excitement and praises when they find you. Hide in easy-to-find spots at first and find more difficult hiding places as your pup picks up on the object of the game. You can start by keeping your pup in a down position as they watch you hide the treats. When they understand the point of the game, you can make it more challenging by keeping them in another room and letting them in only when all the treats are hidden. It also requires very little space and involves more concentration and nose work. To play the shell game, take 3 cups and some treats, and sit across from your dog. Place the cups upside down on the floor and keep a treat under only one. Shuffle the cups before arranging them in a row. Turn over the first one your pup touches. If they get the right one, let them have the treat. If not, re-shuffle the cups and play again. Find-and-Retrieve Find-and-Retrieve is not just a game of obedience and concentration. This game involves teaching your dog the proper names of things, finding those things on command, and handing them over to you. To play this game, start by teaching your dog the name of one toy. Then, make the game more difficult by asking them to retrieve the ball from other places. Here are other things you can do to interact with your puppy, strengthen your bond, and help them to develop physically, mentally, and emotionally: Walking Walking can be a good way for your GSD pup to learn more about the world outside of your home. Allow young pups to walk at their own pace and try not to be too harsh on the lead. Let them stop to sniff and interact with whatever they might find interesting. This will form a huge part of their socialization. German Shepherds typically like water if they are exposed to it and learn how fun it can be. Swimming is also an excellent way to have fun with your growing dog since it is easy on the bones and joints. Being in water will also help strengthen muscles for even better skeletal development. Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys for dogs are not only excellent for mental stimulation but also for independent play. Depending on the toy, it could also help prime your German Shepherd for nose work, combat boredom, and control their impulses. They can compete in these companion sports as early as 6 months old or you can simply join local clubs to engage in these activities for fun. This helps avoid issues like hip and elbow dysplasia in the future. Until your German Shepherd has developed into adulthood, you should generally avoid activities that involve plenty of jumping. Staircases and other steep angles are safe enough for regular use but not as a means to exercise. Additionally, when running or walking, opt for turf and soil rather than concrete. Final Thoughts Discovering the best ways to play with your German Shepherd puppy will help you develop a strong bond and learn to communicate with one another. These games will also help stimulate their intellect and develop a love for learning. Learning how to discipline your GSD puppy correctly will teach them to respect your leadership and stay on their best behavior.

Please contact us at mylovablelabs gmail. We specialize in breeding beautiful White English "polar bear" Labradors, which are the lightest shade of CKC registered yellow labradors. Our puppies are white with some cream to light yellow color variances. Our breeding dogs have Champion Lineage and years of quality, health and temperament checks behind them. Our beautiful Labradors are our passion and a special part of our family. We plan only so many litters per year allowing time for the best care for all our dogs and puppies. We value quality over quantity giving the best to our dogs in attention and care. We breed to improve the standard of the Labrador Retriever while also giving the very best to families who want to adopt our puppies. Our Labs are our passion and we couldn't imagine life without them. We hope you enjoy our puppy paradise as much as we do and look forward to hearing from you. Please feel free to contact us concerning adoption of our dogs, available puppies or upcoming litters. John's Ambulance and much more.Temperament and intelligence is the priority at Lovable Labs of Canada along with the beauty and health to ensure our customers have a wonderful pet for many years to come. Show Less All our puppies come with: CKC Canadian Kennel Club purebred registration, non-breeding agreement, microchipped, vet checked, health guaranteed for 6 common genetic diseases, and first vaccinations. Many of our dogs are kn Show More All our puppies come with: CKC Canadian Kennel Club purebred registration, non-breeding agreement, microchipped, vet checked, health guaranteed for 6 common genetic diseases, and first vaccinations. Many of our dogs are known for their high intelligence and trainability, as well as being wonderful with people of all. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. After all, these dogs are loving, playful, and highly intelligent. So that you can find a Labrador Retriever that is healthy and happy, we have made this comprehensive guide for Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale in Canada. Scroll down to find breeders that will hopefully connect you with your future pup. Pet Keen advocates for adopting before shopping. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. To get started, check out these Labrador Retriever breeders in Canada: 1. You can purchase just about any type or color of Labrador Retriever at this breeder, including purebred and CKC registered dogs. This breeder specializes in breeding dogs that are not only lovable and cute, but highly intelligent, loyal, and versatile. As a result, they are very diligent in how they breed their Lab puppies and who they sell them to. Not only do the dogs bred here look cute and win championships, but they also have been used as Guide Dogs and devoted pets. Because Labrador Retrievers are so popular, you might be able to stumble upon a Labrador Retriever puppy at a shelter near you. Unfortunately, you may have a little difficulty finding a Labrador Retriever puppy at a shelter. Instead, you will likely need to adopt a puppy from a breeder. Image Credit: Piqsels Things to Ask a Labrador Retriever Puppy Breeder Because there are so many bad breeders out there, you must know how to distinguish the good ones from the bad ones. The easiest way to do this is to ask the right questions. Here are some questions you should ask your Labrador Retriever breeder to ensure that they are responsible and ethical: How long have you been breeding Labrador Retriever puppies? This should be the first question you ask a breeder. Nevertheless, go with the breeder that has an amount of experience you feel comfortable with. Do you have any references? Ask your breeder for references to ensure other clients would vouch for them. When can I take the puppy home? Although this question may sound frivolous, it can be telling about whether the breeder cares about the puppy or not. No responsible breeder will send the puppy home with you before it is 8 weeks old. Sometimes, you might not be able to meet the sire, but you should be able to meet the dame. How many dog breeds do you breed? Responsible breeders rarely breed more than three breeds at a time. Are the dogs registered? Responsible breeders always register their dogs. This is a critical question to ask if you want a pedigree dog. Where are you raising the puppies? Puppies that have been bred and raised in a home are much more likely to get along with humans and be bred responsibly than those kept in kennels by themselves. Do you screen the sire, dame, and puppies? Although a healthy breed, Labrador Retrievers are susceptible to certain illnesses. Most reputable breeders will screen the parents and puppies. If they refused to screen their dogs, go to a different breeder. Because many pedigree dogs are inbred to a degree, their lines include illness and disease. Can I bring the dog back to you if I can no longer care for it? Most reputable breeders will have a written guarantee that they can take the dog back if you cannot care for it any longer. Any good breeder will say yes to this without hesitation. These dogs are super outgoing and personable, yet they are very gentle and intelligent too. Whether you are a single person or have a big family, Labrador Retrievers tend to fit in just about anywhere. Nevertheless, Labrador Retrievers are not ideal for everyone. There are three things you need to know before purchasing one of these puppies to ensure you are ready to take on the responsibility of puppy ownership. Labs are big dogs. When you first get a Labrador Retriever puppy, they will be adorable and pint sized. However, it does not take long for those adorable puppies to grow into big dogs. Although not known to be aggressive, Labrador Retrievers are big and can weigh up to 80 lbs. Because of their size, make sure you have either enough time to walk and play with your dog outside or a fenced in yard that you can let your dog run in. In comparison to other large dogs, Labrador Retrievers make good apartment dwellers since they are a bit on the lazy side, but they still need a lot of space to stretch their legs. Labs are expensive. Any dog is a lifelong commitment. If you do not have the money to care for a Labrador Retriever properly, do not get one at all. Labs need companionship. When left to their own devices, Labs will get bored, destructive, and sometimes depressed. Either get another dog to keep your Lab company or get an entirely different breed. News and Articles Daily routine at Labrador Kennel The adoption of a Labrador — Retriever puppy is a truly an important and exciting event in your life. We work very hard to assign the best characteristics and personality traits to our Labradors, which allows them to be good hunters, companion dogs and also members of your family. Buy a Labrador puppy today! Labradors are fun, intelligent, and extremely playful, making them ideal pets for your children and family. If you are truly on the lookout for a furry fellow to always stay by your side, our top-bred Labrador retriever puppies will suit you the best. Raised with love and attention, Kennel Labradors will make the perfect new addition to your home. Truly one of a kind, Labradors are one of the most gentle and loving breeds of dogs. They love snuggling up with their humans and will never leave their side. So what makes our Labradors a highly sought-after breed and why should every pet owner invest in one? For starters, Labradors are excellent family dogs that will fit in with your children and other family members. Moreover, our top-bred Labradors are extremely playful and bursting with energy which makes them the coolest domesticated dogs ever. Here are the pros of owning a Labrador — Retriever : Easy To Train: Labradors are a very obedient breed that along with being intelligent, follow directions to the core. Their eagerness to learn makes them super attentive and willing to learn new tricks. Our Labradors are extremely sweet-natured and relatively easy to train compared to other breeds as we have raised them in contact with children and other people A Companion Forever: Owning a Labrador puppy means you will never be alone. Whether you are single or if your partner is out of town, you will have a furry buddy to keep you company. Having a loyal friend by your side will give you everlasting companionship. A Gentle Breed: We all know how different dog breeds have their own distinct nature and characteristics. Some make excellent guard dogs whereas some make the perfect family pet. Labrafamily Labradors will be the perfect addition to any home, living up to their super intelligent and gentle nature. Also, if you live with someone with special needs or any other medical issue, Labradors are the best breed to choose. Easy To Groom: Do you work a super busy job that hardly gives you any time to groom your dog daily? They will simply need occasional baths and coat brushing sessions about every two weeks. Labs Are Loyal: Even though Labradors are always brimming with energy and excitement, they are also super loyal to their humans. They might get excited to see strangers in the park, but they will always come to snuggle next to their humans at home. Being the proud owner of our Labradors, you will be getting a loyal buddy for your entire life. They Give Your Life Meaning: Many of us lead super busy lives; some have long work schedules whereas others have a large family to manage. On the other hand, some of us are either retired or are single and need something to keep us busy. Your Labrafamily will give you just that. Having a bundle of energy roaming around your house will always keep you on your toes and never bored. Why Us? Let us find out: Registered Breeders: If you want to buy a Labrador puppy in Canada, make sure you choose us. Whether you want the English Labrador or the American, we have everything for you. Top Bloodline: Here at Labrafamily, our goal is to breed puppies that are of top quality. This is exactly why we choose parents that are of a certified and great bloodline. We thoroughly research the parents and only use the best ones for breeding. Safe Environment: We understand how important it is to breed puppies in an environment that will nurture their mental and physical as well as social skills. This is why all our Labrador pups are raised in a safe and soothing environment till they are old enough to go to their forever homes. Healthy Puppies: Thanks to the wonderful genes they get from their parents, our Labrador puppies are healthy and fulfill all health clearances. Our Labradors and pups are completely tested and are free of any genetic diseases. Worldwide Delivery: No matter which part of the world you are in, if you have your heart set on one of our puppies, your wish will be granted. We are proud to be among the very few dog breeders who offer worldwide delivery. Not to forget, you can buy a Labrador in Canada at a super affordable price at Labrafamily. You are bound to fall in love with the newest furry addition to your family. Our Lab Family Only 5 minutes outside the small town of Wallaceburg, we are living our dream having raised our 3 children in a big country home. We are both former professionals who decided to leave the world of being trapped behind a desk in an office. Raising Lab puppies has become a dream come true. In the spirit of doing our part to save the planet we grow much of our own food in a garden. We have raised a couple of pigs, turkeys, chickens and have laying chickens for their fresh eggs. Although we are not farmers, we enjoy the satisfaction of biting into an organic tomato or other vegetable fresh from the garden. Clair where we fish for bass, perch and walleye and throw balls into the water for the labs to retrieve until our arms fall off. Our children are now grown and starting families of their own. Our two boys are working with us and we are passing on the knowledge of breeding service quality dogs that we have learned over the years. This will ensure our tradition of breeding genetically sound, super smart and even tempered dogs will continue in the future. They will also continue our donation of dogs to service dog organizations in both Canada and the USA. If you are interested acting as a Guardian please click for info. Click for info. Our chocolate lab puppies and silver lab puppies are a result of a Breeder focus on health, intelligence, and temperament. Click to read more about our level of quality, how we operate and the cost of our Labrador Retriever puppies. Trained Labrador Retrievers for Sale Looking to skip the small puppy stage? The crying, up through the night, jumping on guests…. .One of our Trained Labs may be for you. Click for more info. Labrador Retriever Frequently Asked Questions Some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers about our Labrador Retrievers and the Lab puppy adoption process. We Love our Labs Becoming a Chocolate Labrador Retriever Breeder means raising, playing with, training and grooming our dogs is all we do. Our chocolate lab puppies have been placed all over Ontario, Canada and the US. Meeting all the wonderful people who adopt our dogs and seeing their faces when they arrive to pick up their lab puppy is one of our favorite things! We Truly Care Our belief is that a fur ball is a friend for life not just a cute puppy. This could mean 12, 15 or more years. We make a promise to our extended family of continued support for the life of your Lab. Our goal is 0 of our Labs in shelters and we will take your Lab back until we find a suitable home if necessary. Respect and love for those who dedicate their lives for others is our focus. Click to see them. Click here to visit! Have you just searched for dog breeders near me and are looking for Looking for Chocolate Labrador Retriever Puppies for sale in Ontario? We are committed to strengthening the characteristics of the Labrador Retriever breed. Our focus as a breeder is to breed puppies with excellent health, outstanding intelligence and even temperament. This breeding focus has resulted in top quality family pets and hunting retrievers. It is because of these qualities that the Labrador Retriever is the most popular breed of dog in the world by registered ownership. These dogs have an excellent memory and can thrive if exercised properly even if they live in an apartment. They are excellent water dogs, service dogs , family dogs and are used for many things including police and customs work, search and rescue dogs, seeing eye dogs and assistant dogs for people with disabilities including Autism, Emotional Support USA and Comfort Dogs , Diabetes, Blindness, Seizure alert dogs and PTSD. Just have a look through our Facebook Page LuckyLabsPuppies and you will be able to view many of the families we have given puppies to over our many years as a Labrador Breeder. When looking for a Labrador puppy, a Lucky Labs puppy is simply the best friend you could ever hope for. A Yellow Labrador Retriever is not to be mistaken for a Golden Retriever as they are a different breed. Golden Retriever puppies are different primarily in the fact that they have a longer coat than a yellow lab. When searching for puppies in Ontario, Lucky Labs can help provide you with a puppy you will enjoy for years to come. Pups come with a four year written guarantee for all major organs. Hip and elbow guarantee is 14 months which gives your dog time to grow and be tested. Genetic testing is also carried out on the bloodline to ensure your dog is bred from lineage free of health problems. Lab puppies normally travel very well, for more on this click this link. If you are looking for a puppy and health, are not too old for a Lab puppy, intelligence and temperament matter to you, we have a Lab puppy for you! Welcome, and please read through our site to get to know us and our amazing dogs. You might want to begin with this article on the 10 most common Labrador Retriever questions. Text only please. Kijiji messages go to my junk mail. Born on September 10th. Vet check and shots will be done. One yellow male one yellow female available. Five months old absolutely beautiful! Champion bloodlines perfect for hunting, companion and absolutely amazing.They will have a 2 year health guarantee, first shots, deworming, vet check, microchip, CKC registration and a gift bag. These red beauties.They are well trained and super nice with kid and cat. Both Mom black and Dad chocolate are super gentle. They all purebred.They are so healthy and growing fast. These pups get handled by children and adults alike. Sunny is a smaller lab, Sunny is a smaller lab, weighing only 65 lbs. She does her best to please her.Not spayed. Kennel trained. Please Contact Very Large Puppy Looking for Acreage Calgary We have been fostering a rescue puppy for 6 months while her new family secured an acreage, now they've completely changed their minds and we need to find a home for this sweet girl as soon as.John's Looking to rehome my 3yr old lab cane corso, reason for selling working long hours and don't have the time to give her that she needs.We currently have 2 males available. These puppies will be ready to go to their.Labrador Retriever Puppies - 2 males left Peterborough Timber Hills Kennel is thrilled to announce the arrival of 5 beautiful Labrador Retriever puppies on July 28th, Mom is on site. Puppies are 8 weeks and ready to go to there forever homes! She's very playful and enjoys walks she's great with other dogs. She is 11 weeks old She is a Shephard and bully mix I can't keep her due to.Showing 1 - 40 of resultsPage 1 - results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. The puppies are vet checked, vaccinated, dewormed, fit and healthy and already to go. I expect the boys to grow to.Mom is a lab mix and dad is a Siberian husky. Strathcona County Ready to go home!!! You can follow us on Instagram at thedoodlefamily57 or check out our website at thedoodlefamily. Please apply from our website! Thank you for the interest in our dogs. We have been breeding for 16 years and our focus is.Will make excellent family dogs as they are extremely loving and need lots of attention. Will also make for great adventure buddies. They were born June 26th, .These Pups are ready to leave their mom. Both Mom and Dad on site. Mom is.Always happy to follow us around. Would be good in a home that has people around all the time. Crate trained. Will play fetch and knows to drop tennis ball after retrieving. Catharines This is Simba! Simba has lots of energy, loves going for walks, can play fetch for eternity but is also always cuddled up by my side. It breaks my heart to have to give him away as I love him so much.One yellow male one yellow female available. Five months old absolutely beautiful! Champion bloodlines perfect for hunting, companion and absolutely amazing.They will have a 2 year health guarantee, first shots, deworming, vet check, microchip, CKC registration and a gift bag. These red beauties.They are well trained and super nice with kid and cat. Both Mom black and Dad chocolate are super gentle. They all purebred.Previously, we had chocolate labs. Both mother and father of the litter are loyal family dogs. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a.They are so healthy and growing fast. These pups get handled by children and adults alike. Sunny is a smaller lab, Sunny is a smaller lab, weighing only 65 lbs. She does her best to please her.Not spayed. Kennel trained. Albert We have 8 beautiful little puppies to find forever homes for. Both parents have great temperaments and have been raised.He is a fixed male with all his vaccines up to date. He has a very loving and goofy personality and loves to be.John's Looking to rehome my 3yr old lab cane corso, reason for selling working long hours and don't have the time to give her that she needs.Will be ready to go home

Phone lines open everyday from 8. We're a happy, friendly team and would love you to come and visit us at the centre to see our fantastic facilities and all the waggy tails of our doggy guests. We can care for up to 85 dogs in our 67 kennels, and we make sure our residents get plenty of enrichment in our on-site training barn. By public transport: Nearest rail stations are Prescot and Whiston , which are each a five-minute drive away from the centre. By road: M62 junction 6 or M57 junction 1 or 2, then B.Parking available on site. Local supporter relations If you are interested in donating In Memory, have questions about our Canine Care Card service, leaving a Legacy or if you would like to book a guest speaker for your Community Group, then please get in touch with your local Supporter Relations Officer Kate Ankers or call on .Supporting us Donate your pre-loved items. Signage outside will make it clear where you can drop off your donations. We rely on your kind support to continue our vital work, please donate today. How rehoming works. Little Legs Dog re-homing We are a small family run organisation who take in dogs in need of rehoming. We are based in Southport, England. We are strictly not for profit. We can help in any emergency situation. All the dogs live in our own home and we do not use kennel facilities. We have links with a number of local vets and breeders and take dogs from all walks of life. We pride ourselves on matching our dogs with their perfect forever homes. We are completely self funded and are very grateful to those who choose to support us. We arrange neutering, vet checking and get started with their house training and lead walking as required. Some of our dogs are ex-breeding dogs, these can come with a very specific set of needs. They have usually lived in kennels and take some time to acclimatise to living indoors. We will usually rehome these where there is already a kind resident dog for them to learn from and for company and companionship. We will always aim to help in an emergency rehoming situation, please contact us. Click here to view our guidance for homing ex-breeding dogs as they often need special attention.

Rabies Vaccine Rabies is a viral infection caused by a virus secreted in the saliva. According to the Humane Society , because the infection affects the nervous system, most rabid animals behave abnormally. When should puppies get rabies shots? Generally speaking, puppies should get their first rabies shot around 16 weeks of age and again between years old. Rabies Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks Booster: every 3 years Non-core Vaccines Non-core vaccines are important, but they are considered optional for dogs with less risk of infection. Non-core vaccines are recommended based on lifestyle and where you live or travel. Bordetella Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium associated with respiratory disease in dogs and is known to cause the most severe form of kennel cough. Symptoms of an upper respiratory infection include nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing, congestion, etc. Some veterinarians may recommend Bordetella as a core vaccine for puppies based on their living environment, especially for social dogs who spend time in areas where they might come into contact with the bacteria like the dog park, boarding facilities, or doggy daycare. The vaccination can be given orally, intranasally, or by injection. Bordetella Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks Booster: every year Leptospira Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by infection of the genus Leptospira, which are found in water and soil. The zoonotic disease spreads easily from animals to humans and is more common in warm climate areas with high annual rainfall; the Leptospira vaccine may be considered core in these areas. Signs of leptospirosis may include shivering, fever, muscle tenderness, increased thirst, dehydration, diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, jaundice, kidney failure, liver failure, etc. Leptospira Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks 3rd shot: 1 year Booster: every year There is also a 5-way vaccine known as DHLPP, which is a combination vaccine of distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, and parvo. Lyme disease Lyme disease is caused by infection with the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi which is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. The most common symptoms in dogs include loss of appetite, lameness, joint swelling, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. More serious cases can also develop kidney complications. The Lyme disease vaccine is highly recommended for dogs that live in or frequently travel to areas known for Lyme disease, as well as those living in areas with a high risk of tick exposure. Lyme Vaccination Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks 2nd shot: weeks later Booster: every year Canine Influenza Canine influenza, or dog flu, is a contagious viral infection affecting dogs. The virus is spread through aerosols or droplets containing respiratory secretions from barking, sneezing, and coughing. Dogs in close contact with infected dogs in places like daycare facilities, groomers, and kennels are at a higher risk of contracting the disease. CIV causes an acute respiratory infection in dogs, with the most common clinical sign being a cough that persists for up to 21 days. Vaccines are available for both H3N2 and H3N8 canine influenza. A bivalent vaccine offering protection against both strains is available as well. Dogs become infected when they swallow the parasite that may be present in water or other substances that have been soiled with feces leading to the disease Giardiasis. Giardia in dogs usually causes diarrhea, weight loss, or even death. Giardia is an available vaccine for puppies 8 weeks of age and older for 6 months of immunity against giardiasis. Most common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Young dogs are at a high risk of contracting the disease, so the vaccine is highly recommended for puppies under eight weeks. Rattlesnake vaccine A rattlesnake vaccine can help dogs build antibodies to rattlesnake venom from bites that are often deadly and severely painful to dogs. The antibodies work to neutralize the venom, thereby significantly extending the window of time you have to take your dog to the emergency room , increasing their odds of survival. Protect yourself from heartbreak without breaking the bank. Compare quotes to find the best deal for your budget. After that, puppies should receive a series of vaccines every two to four weeks until actual protein can be achieved between the ages of 6 and 20 weeks old. Your vet will determine a safe vaccine schedule for your puppy based on their weight, health, age, etc. Some pet parents prefer getting multiple puppy shots in one vet visit to minimize stress on their pet, whereas others prefer to spread the shots out to reduce possible side effects and soreness — talk to your vet to create a safe vaccine schedule that works for you and your puppy. Rabies depends on local laws but is usually given by the time your dog reaches 3 to 6 months old. When should puppies have all their shots by? Most vets prefer giving the final DHPP shot at 16 weeks or later; however, new recommendations suggest up to 20 weeks out. When do puppies need booster shots? Abstaining from booster shots can put your puppy at risk. However, not all vaccines require yearly boosters. DHPP vaccine booster: every two weeks for a total of three sets, then every three years Lepto, Canine influenza, and Lyme disease vaccine booster: one month after the initial series, then annually Bordetella booster: 1 year or every 6 months where there is a concern Rabies booster: every 1 to 3 years after the initial round, depending on state laws Puppy Vaccine Schedule There are several types of puppy shots your pet might get in their first year. In addition to a deworming schedule, your vet will suggest a vaccination schedule for puppies based on their age, environment, and medical history. Most vets recommend this general timeline for first-year puppy shots: weeks of age Between 6- and 8-weeks-old, puppies get their first shot of the DHPP distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus vaccine. They might also receive their first round of vaccinations for Bordetella and Lyme disease. Leptospira Lepto is a common puppy vaccination administered around this time frame. They'll also get their first rabies vaccine depending on state-mandated vaccine schedules for puppies, as well as a second shot of the Lepto vaccine if applicable. Boosters Every Years Puppies will need a booster shot for all vaccines at age 1. Dogs need booster vaccinations for Bordetella, Lepto, Lyme, and Giardia annually receiving their first immunization as an adult. The vaccination schedule for DHPP and rabies is every 3 years, but check your local laws and defer to your veterinarian's advice to ensure your pet stays free of disease. How much are puppy shots? Non-essential vaccines your vet may recommend will also increase the price. Note that puppy shots cost more or less depending on several different factors, including your location. For instance, vets in crowded urban areas tend to charge more than vets in smaller towns and rural areas. Also keep in mind that you'll need to budget for booster shots in one- or three-year intervals to ensure your pet stays protected from disease. Fortunately, vaccines for dogs are less expensive than first-year puppy shots because boosters are administered in one dose every few years, as opposed to multiple doses every few weeks. All puppies need to get the core vaccines, i. Your veterinarian will consider the risk factors and advise you on which vaccines are best for your puppy during the first vet visit. No, but both vaccines for puppies are often combined in one shot. Distemper and parvovirus are two different illnesses that are potentially fatal if not treated quickly. What is the 5-in-1 shot for puppies? Do puppies need 3 or 4 sets of shots? It depends on their age; vets may recommend a shorter puppy vaccination schedule for dogs over 16 weeks old and not yet fully vaccinated. How many shots do puppies need before going outside? A titer test is a blood test showing whether your puppy has antibodies for a particular illness. The test can be used to determine the effectiveness of a vaccine and help determine if or which booster vaccines your dog needs. Most doggy daycares and boarding facilities do not accept a titer test in lieu of a puppy vaccination record. When should puppies get dewormed? Because worms are very common in puppies, veterinarians recommend deworming them for the first time when they're two to three weeks old. Is there a heartworm vaccine for puppies? Preventatives can either be administered as monthly medication or every six months by injection. How can you save money on puppy shots? One way to save money on puppy vaccines is by visiting a low-cost vaccination clinic. These clinics typically offer packages that combine a bundle of vaccinations into a lower price point, but also offer individual options if your dog is due for a specific vaccine. Another way to save money on puppy shots is by purchasing a pet wellness plan through a pet insurance provider. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. German Shepherd Puppy Health Protocol Vom Banach K9 puppy worming and vaccination schedule All Vom Banach K9 puppies are healthy, happy, vibrant individuals that have been very well socialized, handled and loved from the moment they were born. All photography by Cindy Fike, Fike Fotography. Below is our protocol for worming and vaccination of puppies here at Vom Banach K9, and our recommendations for puppies from birth through adulthood. Nemex-2 is 4. This product is for heartworm prevention as well as the monthly control of other internal parasites. Vaccines should be given in the right front quadrant right shoulder. Rabies should be given in the right rear quadrant right hip. The reason for this is should there be a local reaction to a vaccine or a lump develop later in these areas you will know which vaccine caused these reactions. When I record the vaccines in the Health Record I peel the sticker off of the original vaccine vial and attach it to the lower portion of the Health Record. I record the date, location the vaccine was given, vaccine sticker and initial. I do let clients also know should they later feel a small pea to marble sized lump in that region that it could be as a result of a vaccine. This is what I give here before puppies go home. I like to give it at 7 weeks to allow time for the vaccine to kick in as opposed to doing it at 8 weeks when a puppy may be leaving. I do not like to hyper-vaccinate by doing Lepto and Corona on their first vaccine also it is recommended that Lepto be given ONLY after 10 weeks of age and not before, so do not vaccinate with Lepto under 10 weeks of age. Kennel cough is easily transmitted from dog to dog by contact with a contaminated animal, on the ground, or in a facility where affected dogs have been in such places as dog parks, pet stores, veterinary hospitals, boarding facilities and cargo facilities where animals are shipped. We vaccinate all of our puppies here at 8 weeks of age or before they go to their new homes to aid in the prevention of kennel cough and your Vom Banach K9 puppy becoming infected during those first few weeks where the puppy may be traveling or in infected areas. We recommend a kennel cough booster be given every 6 months if you are frequently in contact with common grounds and unknown dogs. It is a virus similar to Parvo but not as severe. I would check with your vet to see what they recommend for your area. Corona is a puppy virus and does not need to be re-boostered or vaccinated in adult dogs. In puppies however you need 2 boosters of it same as with Lepto. I absolutely recommend vaccinating against Lepto. Lepto is a bacteria. Leptospirosis is spread commonly by infected rodents and raccoons and passed through the contact with urine it is as well very contagious to humans. It is common in our state and many others. The Lepto vaccine has very few side effects clinically with the Large breed dogs. There is a higher risk of side effects to smaller breeds. Life saving vaccinations far outweigh the risk of possible side effects from the actual killed modified vaccine for this disease. Please check with your area for Rabies requirements in your state. Puppies should be at least 12 weeks of age to be administered a Rabies vaccine. Prior to 12 weeks it may be rejected by the immune system due to the puppies own immunities from its mother so the puppy would not be fully protected from the disease. Because Rabies is required by LAW in many States, Rabies can only be given to puppies over 12 weeks of age for this reason and in order to receive a Certificate of Immunization. Because your puppy will be 4 months old by his last scheduled puppy series vaccine it would be too soon to re vaccinate at the 1 year birthdate giving him his adult 1st booster only 8 months after his last puppy vaccine instead of a year from the last scheduled vaccine date. I recommend one booster at 3 years of age and then a titer test to determine if vaccination is needed for specific viruses and for prevention against hyper-vaccination of adult dogs thereafter. Guidelines should be followed for recommendations for Rabies in your state. A titer is a blood test performed by your veterinarian in order to determine the presence of antibodies that develop in the body as a result of vaccines. A vaccine titer reveals whether or not the animal currently has adequate protection against a disease. Low titers indicate that vaccination will be necessary to provide immune protection. Puppies who may be staying longer may not receive the same schedule as those leaving at the weeks of age. I may vaccinate them later then the initial 7 week vaccine so I then follow a vaccine protocol from the date of the initial vaccine giving subsequent vaccines every 4 weeks thereafter for the remaining two vaccines. Because both Corona and Lepto need two boosters following the initial one is why I recommend puppies receive two more vaccines in addition to rabies after leaving here. I also discuss vaccines with my clients when I give go home instructions. And I hope it mostly sinks in. I think it is very important when they take their new puppy to their vet that they bring the record and be sure they are given the correct vaccinations and only the ones that are needed. I think it is important to be on the same page with your vet that puppies are not over-vaccinated. Quick Find. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. Possibly even more important is how to know what to vaccinate for and how often vaccines should be administered to our dogs. Generally speaking for adult GSD's, the most important things to vaccinate for are canine parvovirus and also for canine distemper. There are many combo vaccines on the market that can be purchased that containe vaccines to cover several things such as distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, etc at one time. Many factors are important when deciding on which combo shot to purchase and give your GSD when needed - for example, depending on the age of the animal to be vaccinated, it's actual vaccine history, it's current health, etc. Never vaccinate a sick or injured GSD. For optimal immunity German Shepherd puppies can be vaccinated at 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 weeks of age, and then every 3 years as adult pets. If, however, there are any degenerative or immune mediated diseases or history of cancer, then the pet should be evaluated to determine the necessity of vaccinations after the puppy hood series has ended. While a vaccination for rabies is required by law in most states, and must be administered by a licensed veterinarian, many German Shepherd owners, for financial reasons, will choose to vaccinate their pets at home for all other infectious diseases. Administering GSD vaccinations: When using any vaccines that must be mixed first, there are four simple steps to follow in vaccinating dogs. Shake mixture thoroughly. Since most vaccinations are given by subcutaneous injection just under the skin , the most convenient area to give the shot is located in the shoulder area, just behind the neck near the collar area. Other important factors in giving GSD Vaccinations: Always use a separate sterile needle and syringe for each injection, and a fresh and clean needle for each dog you're giving a vaccine to never share needles among your pets and then safely dispose of all used needles and syringes. As always, if you have any questions about administering your own GSD Vaccinations yourself, contact your veterinarian or your German Shepherd breeder. They will be happy to answer your questions and to show you the proper way to give your German Shepherd the vaccines that it needs to prevent it from getting many horrible diseases. For more detailed information about puppy vaccinations and the diseases that these vaccines prevent, please read on. I said to him "There now you're done. FYI German Shepherds Puppy Immunization Schedule The vaccines, treatments, and tests listed below are the current protocols we follow here at Gunbil German Shepherds to provide optimum health care for our dogs. Newborn puppies acquire immunities against many diseases by nursing from their mother. During the first two days of life, a puppy that nurses takes in the colostrum that is present in the milk that is first produced. These antibodies prevent the puppy from being infected by diseases like Canine Distemper and Parvo virus. These same antibodies are also the reason veterinarians suggest vaccinations to be given after six weeks of age. It is highly recommended that new puppies visit a veterinarian as soon as possible. The veterinarian will then educate the owner on the needs of the new puppy, look for congenital defects as well as look for signs of parasitic or viral infections. Those for the rest of these diseases are freeze-dried living virus that have been grown in tissue culture in a way that makes them non-pathogenic i. Actually, a single injection, at the right time, of all these live products imparts good, long lasting immunity to all of these diseases. The problem is that puppies absorb antibodies against these diseases from their mothers. In some puppies, parental immunity is low enough that by weeks the vaccination to work. In others, parental immunity interferes with the action of the vaccine for up to 18 weeks. The tests that determine parental immunity levels in puppies are expensive and rarely run. So because we do not know just when to vaccinate we give a series of three or four injections so that at least one of them will work. We only give Coronavirus vaccine to puppies because it is a disease of puppies. For subcutaneous vaccination of healthy dogs 6 weeks of age or older as an aid in the prevention of disease caused by canine distemper, infectious canine hepatitis, canine adenovirus type 2, canine coronavirus, canine parainfluenza and canine parvovirus. Administer one 1 mL dose subcutaneously. Primary Vaccination: A recommended vaccination schedule should start at or about 6 weeks of age. The presence of maternal antibody is known to interfere with the development of active immunity. Puppies should be revaccinated every 2 to 3 weeks until 12 weeks of age. All dogs over 12 weeks of age should initially receive one dose of Duramune Max 5-CvK and a second dose 2 to 3 weeks later. Leptospira Canicola-Grippotyphosa-Icterohaemorrhagiae-Pomona Bacterial Extract For subcutaneous vaccination of healthy dogs 6 weeks of age or older as an aid in the prevention of disease caused by canine distemper, infectious canine hepatitis, canine adenovirus type 2, canine coronavirus, canine parainfluenza and canine parvovirus. Annual Vaccination: Annual revaccination with one dose is recommended. Where we live we are not required to have our dogs on Heartworm preventive medication as the disease is not in our geographical location. Please do not use our website to attempt to diagnose or treat your pet. The consultation with your veterinarian is the best source of health advice for your individual pet. You should not rely, on the veterinary advice or any other information provided on this site for the diagnosis or treatment of any specific condition. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the medical condition or general treatment of your pet.