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We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. I have yet to meet a dog that enjoys getting a nail trim, but it's just one of those things that must be done. If you want to take care of this task at home rather than at the vet's office or groomer, you may be wondering how short your Labrador's nails should be. When your Labrador is standing up, the nail should be right at the edge of the pad, approximately 2 mm 0. If the nails are touching the floor or you hear them clicking , you should trim them without cutting the quick. It is essential to know when, how, and why to cut your Labrador's nails. Before actually doing it, you need to know how to determine the appropriate length to avoid injuring your dog. So if you can hear the nails "clicking" around on a hard floor, it's time for a nail trim. If your lab is more of a homebody or only plays in the grass, her nails may grow out more quickly than a dog that takes its walks on city streets and sidewalks. You should check your lab's dewclaws regularly to make sure they haven't grown too long. Do this every time you bathe them , so every months, at an absolute minimum. Because the dewclaws don't get as much action as the others and aren't usually in contact with the ground, they are more prone to growing out excessively or even becoming ingrown. The dewclaw can also get snagged or broken off if it's not trimmed appropriately, which can be painful for your pup. Why Trim a Dog's Nails? Long nails can be uncomfortable for your dog to walk on. Leaving overgrown nails unattended for a long time can cause your dog to change their walk to avoid putting pressure on the nails. These changes can lead to injuries, joint problems, and even arthritis. Just like humans, dog's nails continuously grow. If they don't wear down naturally during their activities, the nails can grow too long and need trimming. It's essential to keep your Labrador's nails short because it prevents them from getting snagged, breaking, or tearing, which can cause painful injuries. Trimming Your Labrador's Nails Trimming your lab's nails can be a quick and easy process if you start training her early to be comfortable with having her feet handled. However, the process can be a little trickier for older dogs or those who aren't used to it. Before we get into the specifics of cutting your lab's nails, we need to look at the tools you'll use. Types of Nail Clippers There are two main types of nail clippers for pets: Guillotine style Scissor style Some people also use a nail grinder as an alternative to cutting the nails. The two types of clippers are similar, with slight differences in their designs. The American Kennel Club recommends the scissor-style clippers for larger dogs with thicker nails and the guillotine-style for small- to medium-sized pups. Scissor Style I highly recommend the Boshel Nail Clippers clippers because they have a safety stop blade that helps prevent cutting the nail too short. What's great about these clippers is that they come with a small nail file stored in the handle. You can quickly smooth out a rough edge or get the nail a little shorter without having to make another cut. Resco invented the guillotine-style nail clipper, so you can't go wrong with their products. They are of excellent quality, and the blades are replaceable. So, when the blade starts to dull, you can order a new blade. Resco also offers a lifetime warranty on their products. How to Trim Your Labrador's Nails If your lab isn't used to getting a pedicure, you'll probably have to restrain them for this process. The veterinary medicine department at Washington State University recommends placing the dog on a table and standing next to the table with your arms draped over the body to hold your pup still. You can also lay the dog on their side if they're moving around too much. Here's how to trim your Labrador's nails: Grasp the paw gently but firmly, isolating the nail that you're going to cut. If you're using the scissors type of nail clipper, you should hold it at a right angle to the nail and squeeze firmly to cut, taking care to not cut into the quick the pink nail bed that's visible in light-colored nails. Slide the nail into the ring for the guillotine style and squeeze the handle firmly to cut, again ensuring that you don't cut into the quick. The ideal length should be as close as you can get to the quick within 2 mm 0. Note: Ensure that the cutting blade faces you rather than the dog to avoid cutting the nail shorter than you intended. Trimming Black or Dark Nails If your Labrador has black or dark nails, it can be challenging to see the quick and know how short to cut the nail. In this case, it's best to do several small cuts rather than one cut to the desired length. Start with a tiny cut and look at the edge of the nail. You can continue to make little cuts, looking at the cut edge each time. Once you see light coloration or a small pink area at the top of the cut nail surface, you'll know you've reached the quick. It's always better to stop short than to cut too far. If you accidentally cut into the quick, it'll be startling for you and your pup, who may yelp and bleed. You can use a styptic pencil or powder to stop the bleeding if this occurs, though the bleeding should stop on its own in a few minutes. Final Thoughts You should trim Labrador nails short enough so that they don't touch the floor. However, you want to be careful not to cause injury to them. It's also essential to check the dewclaw and make sure it's not overgrown. When clipping your dog's nails, cut them to the edge of the pad or within 2 mm 0. It looks difficult and, well, puppies are so wiggly! The first piece of advice is this: Begin early. Nail Trimming Tools Several types of nail trimmers are on the market, available at pet-supply stores. Some are better suited to small breeds; others are made with large breeds in mind. Guillotine trimmers one blade are better for small breeds because they are small and easy to use on tiny paws. Dog nail clippers with two cutting edges are better suited for large breeds. They are larger than guillotine trimmers and are made more like hedge clippers, giving plenty of leverage for large, tough nails. Puppy toenails are sometimes soft and extremely small, which makes trimming with regular-sized canine toenail trimmers difficult. The adult-sized trimmers can tear the nail instead of clipping it. Human fingernail trimmers are helpful, especially on small breeds, such as Toy Poodles or Yorkshire Terriers. Ask your veterinarian to recommend an appropriate size and style for your puppy. When you purchase nail trimmers, also buy styptic powder. Cut right below the pink line. Dark nails are more difficult, but a rule of thumb is to cut right below where the nail starts to curve. Trim a little at a time to avoid cutting the quick. Be aware that as a nail grows, so does the quick, so frequent nail clipping means the quick stays short and out of the way. It will help to hold your pup close to your body with that arm. Place your thumb on top of the foot and fingers underneath to spread the toes. With the nail clippers in the other hand, snip the nails one at a time with short, decisive strokes. Simply use your finger to apply a pinch of styptic powder to the end of the nail and apply pressure. Hold for 30 seconds or until the bleeding stops. Once you have trimmed each nail, file the nails with an emery board to remove sharp edges. Normal canine nails should be intact all the way into the foot, not bleeding, cracked or split. Without doubt, your puppy will wiggle, whine, even yelp when you trim its nails. Talk quietly and soothingly, and hold your puppy firmly. Praise your puppy lavishly when the job is done, and give him a treat. You want the puppy to remember each nail trimming as a positive, fun experience! What makes nail trimming such a challenge for many dog owners is that Labs do not like to have their paws held. To get your dog to allow you to hold his paw and trim his nails may take quite a bit of practice. Rather than confirm his suspicions, exude confidence by speaking and acting as if nail trimming is no big deal. You want to ease your Labrador into the event gradually. A way to solve the problem is through nail taps. When your Labrador is fairly settled, gently hold a paw and tap a nail lightly with the clippers. Give him a treat and praise him. Tap another nail lightly. Give him a treat and praise him again. This is a fun thing to do. Try to tap the nails on one paw at a session and then maybe two paws. Treat for good behavior and praise him. Go from nail to nails and remember to praise and treat him for being a good boy. Making the Actual Clip Once your Labrador Retriever is comfortable with you holding his nails and the pressure of the nail clippers, trim a nail! To make the cut, hold the nail so you can see the side of it clearly. Place the clipper so that it is nearly to the tip of the quick. Reward your Labrador! He did really well. They have solid black or mostly black nails. This is truly a challenge. There is a trick, however. If you look closely, you will see an oval-shaped structure. This oval indicates where the quick is. To trim the black nail, look for this oval and make your cut slightly past it toward the nail tip. Once you have one nail cut, you can usually turn the paw back over and trim the same amount from each of the remaining nails. Choosing Nail Clippers When it comes to choosing nail clippers, look for a sharp, sturdy clipper that cuts the nail cleanly a dull blade will crush the nail in a scissors-like motion. Nail trimmers can sometimes leave jagged, sharp edges. To smooth out rough nail edges, you can use a sturdy nail file or a grinder that is made expressly for trimming and smoothing nails. Nail trimming for Labradors was last modified: May 25th, by zsoltm Please share this. An extra pair of hands optional Calm nerves and lots of patience! Types of Nail Grinders and Clippers There are a few types of tools for cutting dogs' nails: Guillotine style clippers, like these Resco dog nail clippers , have a hole that you poke the nail through. They stay sharp longer but are harder to use. Scissors style clippers like these Hertzko Angled Blade Pet Clippers look like small scissors with divots toward the end of each blade. These are best for small dogs and puppies. Pliers style clippers like the Mighty Paw Nail Clipper resemble scissors style clippers, but they have a spring, making them stronger and better for large, thick nails. Nail grinders, commonly referred to by the Dremel brand name, file your dog's nails smooth while also making it easier to avoid hitting the quick. Turn on the nail grinder or cut a dry spaghetti noodle to get your dog used to the sound the tool makes, then reward them. Cut one nail and give your dog a treat. Only do one nail a day at first until your dog gets used to it. Gradually start doing more nails at each sitting until your dog holds still for all four paws. Some pet parents find it easiest to sit to the side of their dog and reach under and around their dog's arm to hold the paw, like in the photo above. Then, with your free hand, you can trim with clippers. For other dogs, it's easier if you sit behind the dog and flip their paw backward to look at the bottom of the foot. This is my preferred method. This gives you a great view of what you're doing while keeping your dog's leg in a natural position. If your dog has furry feet, you'll need to push or trim hair out of the way to see what you're doing. This is especially important if you're using a nail grinder! The biggest downside to nail grinders is that they tend to grab fur and yank. Next, place your forefinger on the toe's pad and your thumb on the top of the toe on the skin above the nail. Push your forefinger up and backward on the pad while pushing your thumb forward to extend the nail away from the foot. Here are some tips for how to avoid the quick: For white nails, just avoid cutting the pink part. On many nails, the part you can safely cut is much skinnier than the rest of the nail. When cutting black nails, cut off a little bit at a time. When you're getting near the quick, the inside of the nail will look chalky and white. Stop when you see a black dot in the middle of the white area — that's the end of the quick. What Happens if I Cut the Quick? If you cut your dog's quick, it will hurt and bleed. Since not all pups hold still for nail trims, even professional groomers cut the quick sometimes, so don't beat yourself up if it happens! Keep cornstarch, flour or styptic powder handy. While cornstarch and flour can stop the bleeding, only styptic powder can also help ease pain because it contains Benzocaine. The best way to avoid cutting the quick is to cut little bits of the nail at a time rather than going for a big chunk. If you happen to cut the quick, stay calm. Scoop up some styptic powder, flour or cornstarch and press it to the quicked nail for a few seconds. If your dog gets blood in their fur after a quicked nail, it's safe and easy to wipe it away with hydrogen peroxide on a cotton ball. Most dogs have dewclaws on the inside of their front legs. The claws are up the leg a little further than the rest of your dog's toes and are loosely attached. Some dog breeds, like Saint Bernards and Great Pyrenees, have double dewclaws on their back legs, so be sure to check all four feet. Hold the grinder toward the top for better control. Always make sure you have as much hair out of the way as possible—both your dog's fur and your hair, if it's long. Most of the time, light to medium pressure is enough. Use short strokes to see what you're doing and look for a pink dot on white nails or a black dot on dark nails in the middle of the nail tip. If your pup has long, thick nails and you know the quick is far back, you can apply firm pressure. Just remember to keep checking how close you're getting to the quick. You want them to associate nail trimming with something positive. Now that you know how to cut dog nails, you should feel comfortable keeping your pup on a regular nail trimming schedule. Dog nail trimming is a critical part of keeping your pup healthy, happy and pain-free, so put these tips into use today. Your Labrador should have neat short nails. His toes will begin to splay apart slightly, which is uncomfortable for him. You will know when it is time to clip them if they click when he walks on hard flooring. You can also tell by examining them, as the nails should not extend beyond the pad or scratch on the ground when he stands upright. If this goes on for too long, it can make walking painful. So obviously you want to take steps to shorten the nail, long before it gets to this point. Do Lab nails have different growth rates? Lab nails grow at different rates. Even two dogs whose nails are subject to the same amount of wear and tear, may differ when it comes to nail growth. I have one lab whose nails grow very quickly. They need regular clipping unless she is really clocking up the miles each day. My other Labrador never needs her nails clipping. And this is really quite common. How effective this natural nail filing is, depends on where you exercise your dog and for how long. Walking on pavements for example will wear nails down more efficiently than running around on grass. For some dogs, this natural daily filing is all they ever need. But how do you know whether your dog needs his claws cutting? Making a mistake is both messy, and painful for your dog. You only want to cut the dead end of the nail, and not the nerve and blood supply. But it can be a little tricky in a dog with dark nails. Which nail clippers should you buy for your Labrador? There are two different styles of clipper. It really is a matter of personal preference and which style you feel most confident and comfortable with. Lift the paw and carefully cut tiny slivers at a time. Be especially cautious if your Lab has dark nails. And have a file handy to remove any rough edges. Training your dog to accept nail clipping Training a dog to lie quietly whilst you clip his nails does not take very long, and it is well worth the effort. This needs to be done in stages, only moving on to the next stage when the dog is comfortable with the previous one. First build a positive association with having their paws touched. Start by treat streaming tasty bits of sausage or roast chicken while you gently touch the paw on the floor. Over the course of a few training sessions, start to hold and then lift the paw whilst you continue to reward them. And some tasty treats that your dog really enjoys. Long human nails cause discomfort. But is it the same for dogs? Does it hurt dogs to have long dark nails? The answer is yes. It is uncomfortable and can lead to health conditions like infection and inflammation. It makes it difficult for your dog to walk on slick surfaces, like hardwood floors, leading to slips and falls. Cutting into the quick can cause your dog pain, which may bleed excessively. Be careful of the forefinger. Accidents can happen, and even the most experienced dog owners can cut into the quick or tip of the nail. A soap residue or flour bar can also work. Apply firm pressure to the affected nail and hold it for a few minutes until the bleeding stops. After the bleeding stops, keep your dog calm. Take precautions to avoid reopening the the wound. Ensure to monitor the nail for any signs of infection. Keep an eye on it. Some dogs may need their nails trimmed every two to four weeks, while others may be able to go for six to eight weeks between trimmings. Puppies, for example, may need more frequent nail trims because their nails grow faster during their early growth stages. On the other hand, an older dog may require less regular nail trimmings because their nails grow more slowly as they age. Wear And Tear Another factor to consider during nail trimming is the wear and tear on their nails. If your dog frequently walks or runs on hard surfaces such as concrete or pavement, their nails will naturally become worn down. Conversely, if your dog spends most of their time indoors or on soft surfaces like grass, their nails may not wear down and require more frequent trimming. Yes, you can do it yourself. However, it is crucial to understand the types of nail clippers in the market. Learn how to cut labradors nails using them. Types Of Nail Clippers Scissor Style: This kind of dog nail clipper operates similarly to scissors, using the force of your hand. It quickly removes excess nails that may cause discomfort. However, using this type requires more precision. It can be challenging to use on dogs that move around or are anxious. Additionally, smaller dogs with fragile claws may not be suitable for this type of nail trimmer. The more significant scissor-like cuts can cause nails to splinter if they are brittle. Be cautious about how far you insert the nail inside the hole since taking off too much can cause harm. Many pet owners prefer this option as it is easier than the scissor type. It is suitable for small to medium-sized dogs. On the positive side, it is more manageable than the previous option. Are you tired of struggling with your furry friend during nail-clipping sessions? Do you find yourself dreading the process? Teaching dogs to accept nail clipping can be a challenge. With patience and persistence, you can achieve this task. Here are some tips for teaching your dog to accept nail clipping. Start Early The earlier you introduce your puppy to nail clipping, the better. Gradually introduce your pup to nail clipping by touching and holding their paws. It helps them get used to the sensation of having their paws handled. Use Distractions Using distractions can be a helpful technique for keeping your dog calm during nail-clipping sessions. Give them a tasty treat or a toy to focus on while you clip their nails. It can help keep them distracted and less anxious during the whole process. Take Breaks Take a break if your dog becomes too anxious or overwhelmed. It allows them time to calm down and reduces the chance of injury. Try again later when they are more relaxed. Consider Professional Help If you still need help teaching your dog to accept nail clipping, consider seeking professional help. A professional veterinarian or groomer can provide tips and techniques to help make the process easier. When your dog shows curiosity towards the clippers, praise them. Keep repeating this process multiple times until your dog becomes comfortable with the clippers being around. Start by touching and massaging the paws of the hind legs while giving them lots of praise and high-value treats. It will help them associate paw handling with positive experiences. Getting them used to the sound before using them is essential. Start clipping a piece of paper with the clippers to create a similar sound. Again, praise and their favorite treats will help your dog associate the sound with a positive experience. But wait to start by actually clipping the nails. Instead, mix in the sound of the clippers while handling their paws. It will help your dog get used to the sensation of the clippers without the added pressure of cutting the nail. How To Trim Labrador Nails 5. Give Them Lots Of Treats Positive reinforcement is critical in helping a nervous dog get used to nail clipping. Give your dog lots of tasty treats and praise. It will help them associate the entire experience with positive outcomes. Begin by trimming the end of the nail, ensuring that you maintain a steady hand. If your dog is uncomfortable, take a break and return to it later. With time and patience, your dog will become more comfortable. Avoid cutting too close to the quick to prevent pain and bleeding. You can also use cornstarch or styptic powder for this purpose. In case the bleeding continues, get in touch with vet care. File in one direction and avoid filing too much or too often, as it can damage the nail. Use a sharp and sturdy nail clipper, and cut the nail just below the quick. Use high-quality nail clippers. Reward your dog after each successful trimming session. They may even use a grooming table or a towel to restrain the dog and have an assistant to hold it. Grinding and clipping dog nails are both acceptable ways to aid in dog nail trimming. A nail grinder is less likely to cause bleeding and is helpful for dogs with thick and tough nails. Clipping is faster and more straightforward for dogs with thinner nails. Walking your dog on hard surfaces can help wear down their nails naturally, but it may not be enough to keep their nails trimmed. Dogs may cry when cutting nails because they are anxious, uncomfortable, or in pain. They may also be scared of the clippers or the process itself. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness.

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. Courage and loyalty are attributes the Boxer is usually described with. With a good work ethic, playful demeanor, and a goofy face, this dog breed ranks among the top 10 in the USA for a while now. Their nobility and elegance came to focus after the originally working breed Boxer became unemployed during the early 19th century. The breed name derives from the way they defend themselves with their paws while playing. It really appears as the dog spars with the front paws. There is no doubt one might be tempted to get bring home one of these loving fellas. The growth in dogs has much to say about their health and potential — but how? While growing up dogs that suffer from some diseases might stagnate more than others. Boxers are a medium to large dog breed and are pretty safe from the usual bone and muscle disorders in larger dogs. However, hip dysplasia remains one of the most common issues. Reputable breeders will let you meet the parents and give you contacts from owners of puppies born in previous litters. Most Boxer puppies will correspond just fine to the ranges mentioned for their age. It is super important to not rush the growing process. Dogs that are overweight can experience problems later on in life that might have been avoided by maintaining an appropriate body condition. Moreover, the veterinarian can have the pup checked for possible health conditions causing the slow growth. Photo by otsphoto on Shutterstock Even with late bloomers, there is no reason to worry. Some dogs experience growing episodes sooner than others. The same rules apply to puppies that grow too fast. Damage due to wrong feeding can be avoided by using high-quality premium food and sticking to the recommendations according to weight and age on the labels. Never miss out on consulting your vet on the topic first — they will be glad to guide you through it! Boxer Growth Stages Until they reach adulthood, Boxers go through 3 growth stages. The general difference between the growth stages is how fast the puppy grows during the period and how they appear in posture and body condition. The first stage is from birth until they are 2 weeks of age. After the second week, the growth rate slows down. Most breeders wean the puppies off around the 4th-5th week. At 18 months of age, you can probably introduce your companion as a fully developed, curious, and independent adult Boxer. Boxer puppies have somewhere between 2. At the end of the first stage, they can reach around 4. At 1 month of age, their stuffed muscle figure comes at about 5. By the time they are 16 weeks old, males weigh lbs .Male Boxers are expected to have approximately lbs .In the next six months, the growth slows down to about lbs 0. Male Boxers should weigh around lbs kg by the time they reach 6 months of age. Female boxer puppies are expected to have lbs kg when they are half a year old. Since the Boxer qualifies as a medium to large breed, it takes longer for them to reach their full-sized version compared to other smaller breeds. There are exceptions when Boxers complete the growth at 20, even 24 months. Female Boxers that are done growing up weigh approximately lbs kg and stand .Their male counterparts have between 60 and 70 lbs kg and are 23 to 25 inches cm tall. In the meantime provide quality food, regular exercise, and maintain regular veterinary check-ups to ensure their well-being. As with all other dog breeds, some adult Boxers will be smaller than the standard dimensions of the breed. On the other hand, there is a handful of those that are larger than the standard too. Genetics is the most probable cause for this. Rarely do Boxers end up being smaller than the rest due to low production of the growth hormone. Luckily growth hormone problems in Boxers are very rare and other breeds such as the Miniature Pinscher, Spitz, or Karelian Bear Dog are more prone to the condition. Growth defects in dogs can appear due to Dwarfism Achondroplasia. Minor deformities can be surgically corrected, but again with a dubious prognosis. In Conclusion Understanding the growth chart will help you understand what role nutrition, diet, and exercise plays and adjust accordingly. Getting rid of excess weight or ruling out health issues is something you and your vet can work on together. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. As a medium to large-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to fill out and reach their full size than smaller dog breeds. As a general rule, expect your Boxer to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. Keep in mind that this range is an estimate, so there are always exceptions. Image Source: Canva How big should a 6-month-old Boxer be? A 6-month-old male Boxer should weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a 6-month-old female Boxer will weigh about 39 to 44 pounds. According to Care. For a male Boxer puppy, this would be around 17 to 19 inches tall. Pro Tip: Check out this downloadable new puppy checklist covering topics like vaccination schedules, setting up the home for a new puppy, teething, veterinary visits, and more! How much bigger will my Boxer get? There are several ways to estimate how much bigger your Boxer will grow. If your Boxer is less than two years old, they are likely still growing. Some Boxers stop growing closer to 18 months, but many Boxers will continue to fill out in weight and body size until they are two years old. A puppy will rarely be larger than either parent, so this can give you a clearer idea of their maximum size. Do their paws look oversized compared to their legs and the rest of their body? This is a strong sign that your Boxer is still growing and filling out! What is the size of a full-grown Boxer? According to the American Kennel Club Official Boxer Standards , a full-grown male Boxer will stand around 23 to 25 inches tall, while a female Boxer will stand about .A fully grown male Boxer will weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, with their female counterpart will weigh about 55 to 65 pounds. As with many things, prevention is always better than treatment. Taking your Boxer to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do for their health, along with consistent love and care at home. One of the best things you can do at home is brush your dog's teeth regularly to help prevent painful periodontal disease and avoid pricey dental treatments in the future. Periodontal disease can cause bad breath and oral pain for your pup and may require your Boxer to have a dental cleaning or tooth extractions under anesthesia at some point in their lives if not attended to at home. Keeping your Boxer at a healthy weight is crucial for their longevity, overall health, and happiness. If your Boxer is overweight, talk to your veterinarian to develop a weight loss strategy so that you can get them back on track. Consult with your veterinarian about the ideal food and exercise for your Boxer. Like all dogs, Boxers have certain conditions that they are prone to. Boxers are a purebred dog breed prone to heart problems, like cardiomyopathy, heart valve narrowing, and congenital heart defects. Brachycephalic syndrome increases their risk of respiratory distress, allergies, heatstroke, and sinus problems. Regular veterinarian appointments are crucial in finding and treating illness early to give your Boxer the healthiest and longest life possible. Unfortunately, veterinary bills can be costly with many treatments for emergencies and illnesses, such as heart problems, being thousands of dollars to treat. When surveyed, .The financial safety net provided by pet insurance is why pet insurance is worth it for many pet parents. Keep in mind that even healthy behaviors, like exercise, can be overdone. Consult with your veterinarian about how much exercise is prudent. Medium to large-sized dogs that are still growing may suffer from joint damage if they are overexercised. Make a plan with your veterinarian today to provide your Boxer with the ideal amount of exercise to keep them lean, healthy, and happy. Boxer puppies grow into strong and sturdy adults that make fun-loving, often silly companions, and fierce protectors. 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. Boxer Newborn Puppy Care Overview If you have had a litter of Boxer puppies at your home and you are in charge of taking care of a newborn Boxer puppy, much attention must be taken during the first 8 weeks. From the moment of birth until the pups are at least 2 months old, a person must be close by and ready for any situation. Each week will bring new changes and responsibilities. This is a crucial time for care that can shape the health of the dog for its lifetime. How to Know if a Boxer Puppy is Getting Enough Milk The amount of times that a newborn puppy drinks milk from its mother varies from pup to pup. The important aspect is to know if a puppy is receiving enough throughout the day. Sometimes larger newborns will push their way to Mama and smaller puppies may not be getting enough milk. Some puppies may not be strong enough to suckle from smaller nipples some will be larger than others or strong enough to suckle once other pups have done so, and as the milk supply runs lower a puppy needs to suckle harder. How do you know if a Boxer puppy is getting enough milk? It is important to weigh each puppy. This can be done with a baby scale or electronic kitchen scale. Of course, take great care when weighing them. Always use the same type of blanket or cushioning on the scale so that you always get an accurate weight and the blanket does not affect the weight Weigh each puppy 2 times per day: AM and PM Keep careful track of who is who! You can do this by using a dot of white-out fluid applied to the ear in a certain area or other gentle marking method If a puppy shows no weight gain each day, you must take steps to ensure that pup receives more nutrition If a newborn is not gaining weight: Give the larger puppies a supplement Allow the smaller puppy to drink first; the larger puppies will have more strength to suck harder to retrieve their milk If There is a Weight Loss: This can be extremely dangerous. During the first few days it will not be milk; it will be Colostrum. This is a highly nutritional fluid that gives vital antibodies to the puppy. The puppy will sleep almost all the time, when not drinking. The Boxer pup will also make soft noises. As long as the puppy's body is warm and you feel him or her breathing naturally, all should be fine. A puppy this young will not be able to eliminate on its own. The mother will lick the pup to stimulate the expulsion of bowel or urine. Do not be shocked if the dam then eats this. The newborn Boxer puppy will have its eyes closed. They will stay this way for about 10 to 15 days. The umbilical cord will still be damp and certainly not ready to fall off. Day 2 It is perfectly normal for a Boxer puppy to lose weight on its 2nd day of life. Carefully watch for any Boxer newborn that seems to be getting pushed out of the way by other pups and unable to drink from mom. If this is happening, remove the other puppies after they feed and allow the hungry puppy to nurse alone, not bothered by their brothers and sisters. Day 3 Talk to your veterinarian regarding docking the tail , if you have decided to do so. This is often done on day 3. This decision should be carefully thought about. In addition, the Boxer puppy's cord will be dry and just about ready to fall off. Dewclaws, if removed, are usually done so on this day by your dog's experienced veterinarian. Week 1 Puppies should be weighed each day. This can be done by preparing a small basket, lined with a soft and clean towel. The basket can be placed on the scale first, with the weight noted. Then, the puppy should be placed inside the basket. Subtract the weight of the basket to have the exact weight of your Boxer puppy. There should be an increase each day. If not, be sure to immediately contact your dog's veterinarian. Nails grow very quickly and should be trimmed as often as each day if needed. A clotting solution, such as Kwik Stop should be used in case the quick of the nail is cut by accident something to carefully avoid. As the pup matures, many owners find that a grinder tool works much better than a clipper. Some dogs need to learn to tolerate the noise, but once they do, grinding down nails can be fast and easy. Week 2 The eyes of the Boxer puppy may begin to open. This is a slow process in which they will open bigger and for more time each day. Puppies will still be nesting near mom. You should take a bit more time to handle the puppies. This is done to slowly allow the mother to become used to you holding them and for the puppies to begin bonding with you. Week 3 The Boxer puppy's eyes should be completely open. Ears will be open now, as well. The ear canal should be fully formed. This is a bit of a noisy time, as the Boxer puppies will begin to find their "voices" and begin to bark. A 3 week old Boxer will have an urge to leave the whelping box. They will have an instinctual urge to eliminate outside of their resting and sleeping area. One side of the box can be removed, with newspapers placed right outside. A 2nd box can be connected to the 1st whelping box. This will allow the pups to have room to romp around and play. This will also give the Boxer mom time to rest without her puppies jumping all over her. Allowing the puppies to play with each other in a safe and comfortable box is a necessary part of the first socialization they need. Week 4 When does a Boxer puppy begin eating solid food? The weaning process begins just about now, in Week 4. You may also wish to offer the very health option of homemade meals of only fresh ingredients. Start with small amounts. It will be a slow yet steady process for a puppy's digestive system to become used to solid food. Extra heating can be removed. The room should be at a comfortable 72 F .Week 5 You should begin introducing small toys to the puppy. The weight of the puppy should still be checked, this can be done every other day now. Normal weight varies very much but should fall in the range of 2 lbs. Feeding should change slightly, with more puppy food and less water. The dam may want to spend more time away from the puppies. This is where an owner must step in and have much more interaction with the puppies. While still fragile, they should be more than happy to be patted, cuddled and played with. Week 6 A Boxer puppy will be eating quite a bit of puppy dog food than before. Too young to be house trained , this may be a messy week or 2 since bowel movements will become more frequent. While it is too early to expect a puppy to be trained yet, if the weather is warm and day this is a great week to introduce a puppy to the outside world. If you are caring for more than 1 pup, take each one outside separately or 2 at the most. Always keep the Boxer on a leash and beware of any dogs in the area. Allow them to become used to what grass feels like! Allow a pup to enjoy the warmth of the sun and the refreshment of a cool breeze. Week 7 Puppies may not be nursing at all any more. They should be spending quite a bit of time with you and with the other puppies. Going outside should be a daily routine. The dam should be brought outside with the pups; she will use this time to teach them skills. This is the time to be very close to a dog's normal routine of grooming , feeding, exercise and play time. Week 8 This is the week that the puppies will receive their 1st vaccinations. If you will not be keeping the puppies, now is the time to begin the process of finding them a good home. All prospective owners should be evaluated fully. Make home visits if possible. Do not be afraid to ask many questions. If you will be keeping all or some of the puppies, now is the time to fall into normal care for your dog. Housebreaking training can begin as well as falling back into your normal schedule. See Also: Boxer puppy care - Overview of what is needed to take great care of a new Boxer puppy. Boxer dog questions and answers - Round-up of some of the most common issues and care elements with the Boxer breed.

Diarrhea and vomiting are the apparent and first symptoms to notice when your pup is not capable of digesting milk. Therefore, in this case, you must not serve your German Shepherd with any lactose-based dairy products. Even experts recommend avoiding giving ice cream or yogurt to your dog if they are lactose intolerant. Always consult a vet to know the accurate health of your dog. In case of an accident, do not hesitate to get proper medication. But, is there any form or type of milk that is acceptable for dogs? What kind of milk can dogs drink? When we mention that milk is not suitable for dogs, it does not include all milk categories. Some alternatives are indeed allowed for dogs and even for German Shepherds. As mentioned above, lactose-free milk such as soy milk and almond milk are perfect alternatives when it comes to serving milk as a treat. While exploring dog stores, you will realize a wide range of alternatives that are not harmful to the health of our dogs. Make sure any alternative kinds of milk do not contain added sugars, sweeteners like Xylitol , or other ingredients that are dangerous for dogs. Just like humans are provided with cow milk in case of any digestive issues, why not try some alternatives for our beloved German Shepherds? Almond milk The first healthy alternative that comes to mind is almond milk. Additionally, there are different flavors available, such as vanilla and coconut. Cashew milk The milk is not only healthy but also has a better taste than regular goat or cow milk. Coconut milk You may notice that your German Shepherd enjoys having coconut milk in its diet due to its taste and easy-to-digest nature. Additionally, you can serve your dog with coconut water if coconut milk is not available at times. However, it may be less flavorful compared to coconut milk. Some dogs may refuse to have coconut water, while others may crave it in their meals. Additionally, there are no known allergies or issues related to coconut milk or water, but consulting a veterinarian is still recommended. Oat milk Last but not least, an alternative to milk is oat milk. Oat milk is a mixture of oats and other ingredients, making it both tasty and healthy for dogs. Can German Shepherds Drink Milk? Can German Shepherds drink milk? When it comes to giving your canine a treat, more and more pet owners are opting for human foods as dog food for German Shepherds. In most cases, this is fine. But there are a few things that should be avoided, as they can cause distress and harm to your pet. So, can German Shepherds drink milk? German Shepherds, like almost all other dogs, are lactose intolerant. Other dairy products like cheese and yogurt should also be very limited, if offered at all. Knowing why you should refrain from giving your canine milk, even as a treat, is important. You should also be aware of better alternatives you can give your pet so that he can feel special. Are German Shepherds Lactose Intolerant? We have all heard of humans being lactose intolerant. Did you know that the majority of dogs are, too? As a puppy becomes more mature and leaves his mother, he loses a crucial enzyme known as lactase. That being said, the majority of German Shepherds are lactose intolerant. Ingesting milk can cause a slew of problems for your dogs that will typically show up within the first 12 hours. If your German Shepherd is lactose intolerant, you will likely see the following happen: Vomiting Rashes on certain areas of the body A sudden decrease in appetite Slower growth than before Weakness and lethargy Excessive thirst As you can see, giving your dog a bowl of milk or letting him consume too much dairy can have quite an impact on his health and happiness. When a dog consumes too much milk or dairy, the fat present in these products can cause vomiting and diarrhea to worsen, leaving your pet in more pain than he was in before. If you continue to serve your dog milk and other dairy products on a regular basis, the high-fat content will begin to cause stress on the pancreas. Consistent consumption of dairy and milk can lead to pancreatitis in a fairly short period of time. This is just another reason why dairy should be avoided at all costs. For some dogs, the high-fat content of milk and dairy products can lead to obesity. The best way to ensure your German Shepherd stays strong and healthy is to simply avoid giving them any milk or dairy products whatsoever. Like most other animals, a German Shepherd will rely on his mother for the few weeks to months of his life. She will provide him with milk that is necessary for his proper growth, leading him to successful adult life. However, as the puppy begins to reach maturity, he will stop producing lactase altogether. At that point, milk should be avoided altogether, as a mature German Shepherd does not have the proper enzyme needed to breakdown milk. There are a lot of milk alternatives on the market. Some of the best options for milk alternatives include the following: Almond Milk. Almond milk is a great choice to serve to your dog. Cashew Milk. Another great choice, cashew milk is a sweet option that many people and dogs find enjoyable. However, just like the almond milk, you need to make sure your dog does not have an intolerance to nuts. Coconut Milk or Water. Some dogs love it, while others will turn their heads away. Oat Milk. Another simple solution is oat milk. Even with milk alternatives, the amount consumed should be limited. Use a small bowl of these goodies as a reward for your German Shepherd. It really depends on your dog. Some German Shepherds can have a piece of cheddar cheese and be perfectly fine, while others will end up with an immediate stomach ache. The best practice is to avoid milk and dairy altogether. The risk outweighs the reward. Related Questions Can German Shepherds eat yogurt? One tablespoon of white yogurt every once in a while should not harm your German Shepherd. Again, this will come down to how dairy affects your canine. Your dog can benefit from calcium and probiotics. Are eggs good for German Shepherds? Eggs are loaded with protein and other essential vitamins and minerals that can truly benefit your German Shepherd. Serve as regular scrambled eggs or get creative with recipes. Your dog can have an omelet with vegetables or a hardboiled egg. Avoid extra spices and seasonings while cooking to avoid potential stomach aches. Trusted by millions of dog lovers worldwide. The lower the amount of lactose, the better chance your dog tolerates the food without any distress. Can German Shepherds Drink Milk? This appears to be quite a common question for dog owners. So, can German Shepherds drink milk? Well, take a look at my German Shepherd in the below photo lapping up some milk! German Shepherds can drink milk as long as they are not lactose intolerant. Milk is high in calcium, vitamin D, and potassium and, as a rich source of high-quality protein, contains all the essential amino acids. However, milk is high in fat and natural sugars, so you should give your dog a small amount. My German Shepherd Willow enjoying a lick of milk! Nonetheless, some dogs may experience unpleasant reactions to milk, including flatulence, diarrhea, and vomiting. If you find your dog cannot tolerate even a small amount of milk, it will be an unpleasant experience for both of you! For example, whole-fat milk contains the same amount of lactose as low-fat milk. Many dairy foods, for example, whole-fat milk and cheese, may also contain too much fat, which can also lead to diarrhea and vomiting. German Shepherd dogs are known to have sensitive stomachs , and repeatedly eating high-fat foods may also lead to pancreatitis, a potentially serious disease. High-fat foods can also lead to obesity — especially if your dog is inactive or elderly. You may also find that your German Shepherd is allergic to the protein in milk, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and itchy red skin. So, what about German Shepherd puppies? Can they drink milk? German Shepherd puppies can not drink milk as it contains too much lactose. Even with this small difference, puppies will have a hard time digesting milk which can overwhelm their delicate digestive system, causing diarrhea and vomiting. German Shepherd puppies should only have the milk that comes straight from Mom! Even in rare cases where the puppy has been orphaned or the mother has fallen ill, milk from a cow is still inappropriate. It is important to either seek out a foster mother for nursing or use a puppy milk replacer in these situations. It is also easy to prepare. German Shepherds can drink lactose-free milk. Alternative dairy-similar products include lactose-free milk, almond milk, and soy milk. Several varieties of lactose-free milk and lactose-free dairy available may be suitable for your German Shepherd. However, when choosing a non-dairy milk substitute, bear in mind that many lactose-free products contain added ingredients, e. If you decide to try your dog with almond milk, you will need to experiment first with a tiny amount. Soy milk products are generally safe for most dogs. Soy milk is also high in calories and sugar, leading to weight gain and tooth decay. You must also carefully check the ingredients and make sure the product does not contain xylitol sweetener which is poisonous to dogs. Remember, if you wish to feed lactose-free dairy foods to your German Shepherd, only feed small amounts in moderation, and make sure you speak to your vet if you have any questions or concerns about any lactose-free products. My take on the subject is this — there would have to be a perfect reason why I would want to feed my dog lactose-free foods, as your dog will thrive perfectly well on a healthy diet suitable for a German Shepherd without them. Just my two cents worth! The fermentation of bacteria in their colon may also cause gas and general discomfort. German Shepherd lactose intolerant will experience the same acute intestinal symptoms as humans suffering from the same condition. The symptoms are not life-threatening unless they continue for an extended time, although this is rare. Symptoms of lactose intolerance in German Shepherds are: Abdominal pain and bloat. Health So, can German Shepherds drink milk? It depends! Generally, it is safe for German Shepherds to drink milk meant for human consumption, but only in limited quantities. How do dogs become lactose intolerant? As they grow older and become weaned, their bodies produce less lactase. Consequently, many of them become lactose intolerant. Additionally, the milk processed for human consumption is very different from that produced by nursing dogs. How do you know if your German Shepherd is lactose intolerant? Unfortunately, the easiest way to know if your German Shepherd is lactose intolerant is to observe for reactions when you give them milk. According to the American Kennel Club , different dogs will react to milk differently, depending on how sensitive they are. Typically, a lactose intolerant dog will have excessive gas and soft stools soon after drinking milk. Some might exhibit more severe symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting. These reactions will typically occur within 12 hours of drinking milk. Instead, use it as a rare treat. Generally, half a cup of milk should be enough for your adult German Shepherd to savor the treat without risking gastrointestinal upset. So, it is easier to digest and is less likely to cause any allergic reactions. Avoid milk variants that are fortified with iron. Although iron toxicity is unlikely in small quantities, your dog should absorb it from their own food rather than as a supplement meant for humans. If you are interested in other articles about what German Shepherds can eat check out some of the articles below:. Abdominal pains Lactose Intolerance and Dehydration If your dog ingests milk and is exhibiting diarrhea, make sure that you closely monitor her water consumption. A dog that has diarrhea will often become dehydrated, and dehydration if left unchecked can be deadly to a dog. Then press on the gums with your finger with enough pressure to make it turn white. The color should come back immediately — if it takes any longer, then this is a sure sign that your dog is dehydrated. He will be able to recommend a course of action to get your dog hydrated again. This will often involve the use of intravenous fluids. Some people view soy milk as a safe alternative to feeding their dog regular milk because it is non-dairy and plant-based, and therefore does not contain lactose. Many commercially available dog foods also contain soy-based ingredients in them for nutrition. In addition, most soy milk has sugar added and it is also high in calories, both things that are best avoided by your dog. Again, avoid feeding your dog soy milk if possible, as there is no necessity — your dog is just fine without soy milk, so there really is no need to take a chance. Another beverage that you may think should be fine to feed your dog because it is non-dairy and plant-based is almond milk. However, while almonds are not toxic to dogs, they are not easily digestible and may nonetheless cause stomach problems. In addition, almonds are high in fat, too high for dogs, and feeding them to your dog can lead to obesity. So stay away from feeding almond milk to your dog if possible. If you must, again, first check with your veterinarian. If he says that it is ok, then make sure that it is unsweetened, as most almond milk contains sugar and sometimes xylitol which can be deadly to dogs! Never feed your dog macadamia milk, even in small quantities. Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, weakness in the back legs, and diarrhea. In fact, if your dog accidentally eats macadamia nuts, you should immediately contact your veterinarian. This milk is known as colostrum , and it contains a high percent of the nutrients necessary for a puppy to develop strong bones and a healthy musculoskeletal system. These include proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. This is necessary for a puppy since they are most vulnerable to illness at a young age. In this instance, you should only replace the milk with a specifically formulated puppy formula. You should first call your veterinarian to ask for suggestions pertaining to the specific type of puppy that you are caring for. Yogurt as an Alternative to Milk Yogurt is also a dairy product, but unlike milk, it contains very little lactose. Because of how yogurt is manufactured, the lactose that is initially present becomes converted to lactic acid — and lactic acid is much more easily digestible by dogs than lactose. If you do choose to give your dog yogurt, just make sure that you are feeding her only natural organic yogurt without any sugars, flavorings, or other additives. Experimenting to see if there is a lactose intolerance present can only cause your dog discomfort or worse — the benefits simply do not outweigh the potential harm that can be caused to your dog. So just be smart about this issue, and you will ensure that your dog stays happy, healthy, and well-fed without the need for milk. This can be reassuring to know if your German Shepherd decides to drink your cereal milk or chow down on some cheese you forgot and left out on the counter! But some dogs have a much harder time digesting dairy milk. For these dogs, symptoms can range from simple digestive distress to an urgent condition caused pancreatitis, which we will talk about here more later on. This is a great question and worth exploring further. As VCA Animal Hospital explains, in most cases, the weaning process will begin around the age of three to four weeks. The mother dog knows instinctively what to do and will start pushing the puppies away when they approach her and try to nurse. However, there is an important difference between the milk of the mom German Shepherd and the milk that people drink, which is most frequently from cows. The mother German Shepherd dog includes the exact combination of vitamins, nutrients, and minerals the puppies need to grow up healthy. This enzyme is called lactase. At birth and up until weaning begins, German Shepherd puppies have a lot of lactase that helps them break down and digest their milk meals. Once GSD puppies begin weaning, however, their bodies produce less lactase. Over time, many German Shepherd puppies will become lactose intolerant. As every experienced German Shepherd dog breeder knows, there is always something that can go wrong when you are breeding dogs. One thing that can and sometimes does go wrong is that the mother German Shepherd is unable to produce milk to feed her puppies. This could be due to illness or infection or for other reasons. Since GSD puppies would normally drink milk, is this a time when milk can be safely fed? The answer here again is that giving dairy milk to German Shepherd puppies is not the best choice. In this short video, a GSD breeder explains how to make your own puppy formula using goat milk, water, an egg, and a little Caro syrup. Another option many German Shepherd breeders use is commercial milk replacement formula or powder for puppies. Usually, this is mixed with water and offered to the puppies every few hours. For example, we just mentioned goat milk as a possible meal replacement for GSD puppies. According to Dogs Naturally Magazine , goat milk is quite a bit easier for puppies to digest than dairy milk from cows. Goat milk has a number of properties that make it easier for German Shepherds of any age to digest it. It has less of a protein group that is linked to milk allergies in dogs. Goat milk is also less fatty and has more essential amino acids to help German Shepherds break down the fat and nutrients quickly and without gastrointestinal symptoms or discomfort. Soy is a fairly common ingredient in many commercial dog foods today. So it would seem like if German Shepherds can eat soy, such as in the form of soybeans, they could also drink soy milk. Mercola Healthy Pets says that soy is not an ideal food source for dogs of any age. Soy also contains compounds called phytates that can prevent your pup from fully absorbing other nutrients in their food. It is actually hard to keep track of all the new non-dairy milk alternative products that are now populating grocery store shelves. Oat milk, hemp milk, banana milk, almond milk, coconut milk…. Some of these are nut milk and some are plant protein milk. There are a few things you really have to watch out for when choosing a non-dairy milk alternative made from nut or plant sources: 1. Make sure the milk does not have any xylitol! Even in very small quantities, it can be fatal to dogs and other pets. Because of this danger, a good rule of thumb here is to never keep any product containing xylitol in the house. Steer clear of macadamia nut milk and walnut milk. If there is a nut in the world right now, there is probably milk made from it. But as VetWest advises , macadamia in any form is extremely toxic to dogs. Walnut milk is also to be avoided, especially if the milk is made from black walnuts. Nationwide Pet Insurance reports that pet insurance claims arising from walnut poisoning are one of the most common claims owners submit each year. Grain-based milk may cause allergies in dogs. German Shepherd dogs tend to be more prone to food allergies than many other dog breeds, as WebMD for Pets explains. So choosing hemp milk or oat milk, for example, may trigger a food allergy for your GSD. The exception here may be rice milk since rice is usually well-tolerated and can even be a part of food allergy elimination diets for dogs. Modern Dog Magazine explains that rice products can be useful to help ease an upset stomach in dogs because it is bland and easy to digest. So now you are aware that dairy milk and most non-dairy milk alternatives are best left on the no-no list for your German Shepherd dog. This is especially true because GSDs can be genetically prone to sensitive stomach and food allergy issues. But what if your German Shepherd swipes your ice cream cone or slurps up your yogurt before you can stop them? How much should you worry and what symptoms should you be watching for? Yogurt may actually be the one exception to not offering your German Shepherd milk.

F1 Goldendoodle Puppies are the first-generation breed. Mom is a Golden Retriever and Dad is a poodle. They have a wavy or soft curly hair coat with minimal shedding after they have lost their puppy fur. They should be on a 6-month grooming schedule. They have the even-tempered personality that takes after the Golden Retriever. They vary in size from 45 - 85 pounds. They have a soft curly haircoat with almost no shedding. They are semi-hypoallergenic and are a great choice for a person who suffers from pet allergies. They require more frequent grooming and should be on a week grooming schedule. They have loyal and intelligent temperaments. Their hair coat is curly and much more poodle than Retriever. They are hypoallergenic and have no shedding. They should be on a week grooming schedule. They have loving and super-intelligent personalities but tend to have more energy. This variation is also smaller in size, they make great apartment dogs. Are Goldendoodle Puppies good pets? What are Goldendoodles Personality and Temperament like? They have loving and affectionate personalities like the Golden Retriever but also have the Superintelligence and hypoallergenic traits of the poodle. They are loyal, very eager to please, and make great companions for families or individuals. With their larger size, they make great dogs for active lifestyles with room to live. They get very attached to people that spend time with them and love to be close to them. Are Goldendoodles good pets for families with kids? Goldendoodles are very loving and have great temperaments. Doodles have lots of energy and will play for hours with children. They also love to cuddle with the family when they get tired. Doodles are also good with other pets in the household. Just beware of their larger size and the need for greater vigilance as a pet owner around smaller children and animals. What is the Lifespan of Goldendoodles? The average expected lifespan of a Goldendoodle is years. Some people like the look of longer hair and wait weeks between groomings. Most Goldendoodles have longer ears that need to be inspected regularly to make sure they are not dirty or have any signs of an infection. After a puppy is reserved it is our goal to make the update within minutes with few exceptions outside holidays and unforeseen events. You can be confident the available puppies and their pictures shown are accurate and up to date. All our mother dogs give birth and raise their puppies inside the house. We believe to properly develop, each litter must live in the main part of the house and receive constant attention. To do this, we enlist Guardian Home raisers who keep the mother dog at their house until the puppies are weaned. Once weaned, the puppies come to the Safari Doodles ranch to get ready for their new homes. We know that how your puppy is raised makes all the difference. How do I know if Safari Doodles is a reputable breeder? Here at Safari Doodles we fully health test our parent dogs. In addition, the whole line of genetics prior to the parents are health tested as well. Safari Doodles carefully breeds our dogs to ensure each litter has the proper pairing of genetics. Safari Doodles began breeding doodles in .We have imported show dogs from Europe. We purchased dogs from well known service dog lines. Our Golden Retrievers and Poodles have outstanding pedigrees. To see more about our Golden Retriever line, see our Golden Retrievers page. Safari Doodles has a wide spread reputation for producing great dogs and our reviews on FaceBook reflect this. Our referrals are endless. Safari Doodles main focus is to produce Service Dogs for people with disabilities. Our list of puppies who were placed to become Service dogs are in the hundreds. We have many vets who refer their clients to consider us for their next Goldendoodle. Dog trainers, groomers, whole neighborhoods refer to us. It is important to us to do whatever it takes to keep the integrity of the Safari Doodles name alive. How much is a Safari Doodles puppy? As of summer the wait time to receive a puppy is months. How do I reserve a Safari Doodles puppy? Please fill out a Puppy Application. Tell us what size, color, coat type, generation, temperament type and any other particulars you desire in a Goldendoodle. Our specialty is helping you with the perfect placement by learning what you desire and knowing our genetics. We Volhard Temperament Test our puppies to guide the match making. Do you need a dog for a child with special needs? That is our specialty. Our focus at Safari Doodles is breeding the best genetics, paired with quality raising to match families with the exact dog for their needs. Watch our Goldendoodle puppies playing in our house Adult Goldendoodles, made by Safari Doodles no, these dogs are not available, these dogs all have homes Sage, 35lb F1 Goldendoodle.

Check out our beautiful puppies on our website. Fill Out an Application We want to be confident our puppies are going to a good home. Come Visit Our Home Come out to our 11 acre property south of DFW and get to know us and your new puppy before you make a final decision. No deposit required. We searched for quite some time and we are so happy to have found them! They were easy to work with, super knowledgeable and made this such a great experience for our family! Highly recommended! We are in love with our little girl. The communication and process were easy, quick, and straightforward. We are over the moon with the puppy we brought home. He is the perfect addition to our little family. Beyond being handsome and adorable our little guy is so smart and funny. He made our life so much better! The process of picking one out and picking her up was a great experience. The staff at Southland was very professional and helpful during the process. The puppy has a great temperament and has been very receptive to the crate training and potty training. She is very social and is great around people and other animals! I would highly recommend Southland to all my friends and family, great customer service! Shipping is available anywhere in the U. Additional fees apply. We pride ourselves on the way we raise our Puppies. We treat the Labradoodle puppies with care and give them lots of love so that they will be fun and social pets. Our goal is to make it easy to transition them from our loving home to yours. Thanks for visiting Southern Doodles. We currently have available spots on our puppy list!! Goldendoodles Goldendoodles are known for their gentle, social and affectionate nature which makes them wonderful family and therapy dogs. We have several of our breeding dogs with therapist guardians, we also have a veterinarian with one of our guardian dogs. We strive for social happy dogs! Here at Southerndoodlin we start their training right after they are born with sensory training. We also have various noises so your puppy will not be afraid of normal home sounds. We also have a gun range nearby, trains and farm equipment sounds and airplanes too. Australian labradoodles have been created for their temperament, coat and conformation. This has been shown over and over again by so many who use the Australian Labradoodle for therapy dogs. They just have a special ability to know their owners emotonal needs. They are intuitive, smart, athletic, easy to train love bugs! Australian labradoodles have been very carefully genetic tested to give you the best. At Southern Doodlin' we are deciding to slow down our business after many years of providing loving puppies for homes acress the country. This family owned business is committed to performing extensive health testing and temperament assessments on each female and male breeding Doodle before selecting them to produce our adorable puppies. We have a select number of litters each year, focusing individual attention to the development of each doodle puppy before it goes to its forever home. Whether you are looking to purchase your first Australian Labradoodle or your third, this will be a very exciting time for you and your family! To achieve this, we carefully select our breeding dogs based on extensive health examinations and temperament assessments. Our breeding moms and studs have been carefully examined and tested by local veterinarians here in Texas to ensure they are free of eye, hip, and elbow problems, cardiac issues, genetic diseases and coat issues. Eye testing is ongoing for the entire time the dog is actively breeding. Photo Right: Our reproductive veterinarian, Dr. Kirk Esmond Each and every breeding dog passes extensive health testing to provide the best opportunity for healthy puppies. I think we are getting ready to go to our forever homes! We specialize in medium size dogs, ranging from pounds. Needless to say, the precious puppies we raise are part of our family. Our breeding Australian Labradoodle dogs live in our home as our family pets or in Guardian Homes as a valued family member. Welcome to the world of a Legendary Labradoodle. People are talking about us. Not only do we have an adorable, healthy, hypoallergenic and non-shedding family companion, but Legendary Labradoodles goes to great lengths to assure the temperament of the puppy will thrive in your home environment. They are truly producing the best pups in temperament, coat, and health not to mention hands down the cutest faces and body shape.

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

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Built for sport, the Lab is muscular and athletic. They have a short, easy-care coat, friendly demeanor, keen intelligence, and plenty of energy. Devotion to this breed runs deep; Labs are loving, people-oriented dogs who live to serve their families, and owners and fans sometimes liken their Labs to angels. The breed originated on the island of Newfoundland, off the northeastern Atlantic coast of Canada. Originally called the St. Today, most Labs skip the hard labor and spend their days being pampered and loved by their people. However, some Labs still serve as indispensable working dogs. They also excel as a search and rescue dog or as a retriever for hunters, thanks to their athletic build, strong nose, and courageous nature. And Labs have also become the breed to beat at dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions, especially obedience. In fact, owners say their sweet, helpful Lab is likely to greet an intruder and happily show them where the goods are stashed. One role has remained constant: wonderful companion and friend. Labrador Retriever Highlights Friendly and outgoing. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are good with people of all ages and other animals. Intelligent and trainable. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They are often used as working dogs, such as guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs. Active and playful. Labrador Retrievers are active dogs that need plenty of exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and other activities. Loyal and devoted. Labrador Retrievers are loyal and devoted dogs that make great family pets. They are known for their gentle nature and love of children. Grooming needs are minimal. Labrador Retrievers have a short, thick coat that is easy to groom. They only need to be brushed a few times a week and bathed as needed. Overall, the Labrador Retriever is a versatile and popular dog breed that makes a great family pet. They are friendly, intelligent, and trainable, and they have a low grooming requirement. If you are considering getting a Labrador Retriever, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder. Labrador Retrievers are wonderful dogs, but they require a lot of time and attention. They are not a good choice for people who are not active or who do not have a lot of time to spend with their pets. Originally called St. Although their heritage is unknown, many believe the St. The second Earl of Malmesbury was one of the first, and had St. The third Earl of Malmesbury was the first person to refer to the dogs as Labradors. In Newfoundland, the breed disappeared because of government restrictions and tax laws. Families were allowed to keep no more than one dog, and owning a female was highly taxed, so girl puppies were culled from litters. In England, however, the breed survived, and the Kennel Club recognized the Labrador Retriever as a distinct breed in .They also top the list in Canada and England. Today, Labs work in drug and explosive detection, search and rescue, therapy, assistance to those with disabilities, and as retrievers for hunters. They also excel in all forms of dog competitions: show, field, agility, and obedience. Labrador Retriever Size Males stand .Females stand .Aside from a winning personality, they have the intelligence and eagerness to please that make them easy to train. Training is definitely necessary because this breed has a lot of energy and exuberance. The working heritage of the Lab means they are active. This breed needs activity, both physical and mental, to keep them happy. There is some variation in the activity level of Labs: some are rowdy, others are more laid back. All thrive on activity. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders, as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Cataracts : As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision, as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Epilepsy : Labs can suffer from epilepsy, which causes mild or severe seizures. Seizures may be exhibited by unusual behavior, such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Puppies are born with TVD, which is a malformation of the tricuspid valve on the right side of the heart. It can be mild or severe; some dogs live with no symptoms, others die. TVD is detected by ultrasound. Research is ongoing to learn how widespread it is in the breed, as well as treatment. Myopathy : Myopathy affects the muscles and nervous system. The first signs are seen early, as young as six weeks and often by seven months of age. A puppy with myopathy is tired, stiff when he walks and trots. He may collapse after exercise. In time, the muscles atrophy and the dog can barely stand or walk. There is no treatment, but rest and keeping the dog warm seems to reduce symptoms. Dogs with myopathy should not be bred because it is considered a heritable disease. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid themselves of the excess air in their stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. Theyalso may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Acute Moist Dermatitis: Acute moist dermatitis is a skin condition in which the skin red and inflamed. It is caused by a bacterial infection. The more common name of this health concern is hot spots. Treatment includes clipping the hair, bathing in medicated shampoo, and antibiotics. Cold Tail : Cold tail is a benign, though painful condition common to Labs and other retrievers. The dog may bite at the tail. It is thought to be a problem with the muscles between the vertebrae in the tail. Weekly checking and cleaning if necessary helps prevent infection. Labrador Retriever Care The lovable Lab needs to be around their family, and is definitely not a backyard dog. Labs show some variation in their activity levels, but all of them need activity, both physical and mental. Daily minute walks, a romp at the dog park, or a game of fetch, are a few ways to help your Lab burn off energy. However, a puppy should not be taken for too long walks and should play for a few minutes at a time. It is up to you to end play and training sessions. Without training, a rambunctious Lab puppy will soon grow to be a very large, rowdy dog. Luckily, Labs take to training well; in fact, they often excel in obedience competitions. Start with puppy kindergarten , which not only teaches your pup good canine manners, but helps them learn how to be comfortable around other dogs and people. Look for a class that uses positive training methods that reward the dog for getting it right, rather than punishing them for getting it wrong. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility, with its one-inch jumps. Labrador Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2. They are almost square in appearance, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The maximum height for a male is 24 inches, which puts them in the medium-size dog category, but their sturdy build can make them seem much larger. Weights range from 85 pounds for a large male to 55 pounds for a smaller female. Field line bred dogs are often taller and somewhat thinner in build. Labrador retrievers are easily recognized by their broad head, drop ears and large, expressive eyes. Two trademarks of the Lab are the thick but fairly short double coat, which is very water repellent, and the well known "otter tail. The feet are described as "webbed," with longer skin between the toes to aid in swimming. The Labrador retriever is a moderately fast maturing breed, reaching adult height from six to 12 months, but possibly still filling out up to 2 years of age. Many Labs reach 12 to 14 years of age. Personality: In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. Labs are usually good with other dogs, other pets, and children as long as training has toned down their natural exuberance. They are strong dogs and need some obedience training at an early age or they can be seen dragging their owners down the street at will. Owing to their energetic nature, Labradors who are left alone or not well exercised can become destructive — chewing, digging and barking to excess. The field line dogs are especially high-energy dogs, while some of the show line dogs become perfect couch potatoes at an early age. Chewing can be a problem because the strong retrieve urge gives them an oral fixation. Sturdy chew toys, exercise and training all help with this. Living With: Obviously, Labradors have a number of endearing traits or they would not be so popular. They are intelligent and fairly easy to train, partly from their desire to work with people. They are "easy keepers" and can become overweight if they are not exercised and food portions adjusted as needed. Labs are excellent family dogs because they do want to be with people and many do not do well as kennel dogs. Labradors do tend to be protective of their families and homes but are usually happy to greet company, too. With the strong retrieving instinct, they can develop into destructive chewers if not given appropriate toys and guidance. Labs may tend to "mouth" people and the solution is often simply to give them a toy to carry around, so their mouths are already full! These are very strong dogs and early training is necessary to have a dog that walks nicely on lead. The wonderful double coat that keeps the Labrador warm while retrieving in icy water also gives this breed top billing as shedders. Normally, their coats do fine with a quick weekly grooming, but at shedding time daily grooming is needed. The amount of exercise they need varies with the different lines: field line dogs can run all day, whereas show line dogs only need moderate exercise. History: Early in the s, some of the multipurpose dogs used in North America mostly Canada by hunters were shipped back to England. Many of these "water dogs" were of the Newfoundland type, but the smaller ones were often designated "St John's" dogs. In England, the breed was developed and refined probably with some flat-coated retriever input into the breed we recognize today. As is evidenced by their name, Labrador retrievers were bred and selected for their outstanding retrieving abilities, particularly in water. They have worked as partners with duck hunters in all kinds of weather and conditions. Their intelligence and desire to work as a partner with man has led to many other jobs, and to their current status as popular pets. Today, Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, family pets, scenting dogs for the military, customs and arson task force dogs, search and rescue dogs as well as hunting companions and performance dogs. The breed's good nature has propelled it to the number one ranking in popularity in America, a position it intends to keep. Despite their fame as indoor pets, they are even more at home outdoors. It should always be remembered that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and from early on, puppies show a strong desire to carry things around with them and a strong attraction to water, even puddles! Related Pet Care Articles. They've won the dog personality popularity contest for so many years, as Labs are devoted to their owners—always willing to show you their affection and receive your adoration in return—are highly intelligent, and are happiest doing any and all family activities. Their enthusiasm not only makes them fun to be around, but also makes them a hard-working breed. Labs are companionable, bonding with all family members, and famously friendly to every person and pup they meet. While they have high energy and require lots of activity , they are eager to please and highly trainable. Appearance Thanks to their role as a hunter's companion, the Labrador retriever is a sturdy dog, weighing in at anywhere from 55—80 pounds. Labs come in three colors: chocolate, black, and yellow. While black Labs were an early favorite with breeders, all three types of Labs are common today. Some breeders do offer "rare" Labs, including polar white, fox red, and even silver, but these are simply variations of the three original Lab coloring combinations. Their top coat is short and thick. Their undercoat is softer and helps provide protection from the weather, especially cold temperatures and water, a nod to their original role as retrievers. A Lab's tail serves a purpose in their heritage as well. They are thick and tapered, an "otter tail" that acts as a rudder when Labs swim. But watch out on land—this happy breed gets to wagging their tail often and eagerly, and won't stop if you happen to be in the way. Yellow Labs might be easy to confuse with golden retrievers. Though both are friendly pups and popular with families, they distinctly different breeds. Temperament "The ideal disposition is one of a kindly, outgoing, tractable nature; eager to please and non aggressive towards man or animal," the breed standard says. They are friendly with new people and animals they meet. Tops in the personality department, Labs are also highly intelligent, making them very trainable. They do have lots of energy, so you'll need to stay active with them, but they are also happy to relax at home for family movie night. What many veterinarians do find, however, is that each Lab is an individual with his own personality. Some Labs are more mellow, while others can be higher energy. Some tend to be more anxious dogs. And you can even have a Lab that is a bit of a goofball. But no matter what personality your Lab puppy grows to develop, one thing is always the same. Living Needs Labs adore their owners. They will want to live indoors and sleep as close as possible to you—or even on you. They like to get outside to play, but don't leave them unattended for too long as they may prove they have a naughty side. Labs have been known to dig and chew, so invest in plenty of sturdy chew toys to keep yours entertained. If properly introduced and trained, Labs can also get along well with other pets in the home including cats , other dogs, and small animals. They are competitors, doing well in agility, field tests, and at dog shows. And they absolutely love to swim. Care When you welcome a Lab to your home, be prepared for lots of shedding. Grooming isn't substantial, but brushing your dog daily will help reduce the tumbleweeds of fur scattered about your house from their thick double coat. They should be bathed every other month to keep them smelling fresh. Brushing their teeth a couple of times a week, keeping their nails trimmed —likely once or twice a month—and checking their ears for redness or odor should also be on your Lab care checklist. A daily minute walk or a lively game of fetch will help your pup burn off some of his energy. Lack of activity could lead to undesirable behavior, but don't overdo it—this "workaholic" breed is apt to exhaust itself. Don't let Lab puppies run and play on hard surfaces for their first two years so they don't damage their joints. Of course their reputation for good behavior precedes them, but that doesn't mean you can skip training sessions with your Lab. Training is important to ensure they don't grow to become too rowdy. Introduce Labrador puppies to other humans and animals early to help socialize them properly. This, coupled with ample positive reinforcement , will allow your pup to grow into the friendly Lab many know and love. Health Labs are a pretty hearty and healthy breed , living 10—12 years. But, as with all breeds, there are some common conditions to be aware of. Elbow and hip dysplasia , heart disorders such as tricuspid valve dysplasia TVD , epilepsy , and hereditary myopathy or muscle weakness can all affect Labs. They can also face eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Owners should also be aware of a condition called exercise induced collapse EIC. Labs may also develop hot spots —or acute moist dermatitis—cold tail, and ear infections. History A bit misnamed, Labs actually come from Newfoundland—off the northeastern coast of Canada—not Labrador, according to the Labrador Retriever Club. Descended from St. John's water dogs, Labradors are a traditional waterdog used to retrieve ducks and keep fishermen company. At the end of the work day, Labs were then happy to head home to spend the night with the fishermen's families. They became increasingly popular starting in the early s, when they were brought to England by nobles who appreciated their work ethic and disposition. Public Domain It may be hard to believe, but by the s, Labs were almost extinct because of government restrictions and tax laws—the same laws that led to the St. John's water dogs' extinction, according to the Canadian Broadcast Corporation. Thankfully saved by English breeders, they were introduced to the U. After World War II, the Lab's popularity took over and grew for decades until they ultimately achieved the status of America's—and England and Canada's—most popular pooch. Fun Facts In , for the 29th year in a row, the Lab was voted the number one most popular breed. King Buck was the model Labrador retriever featured on a U. Another famous Lab is Ben of Hyde , born in .Considered the first documented yellow Lab, today most lines of yellow Labs can be traced to his bloodline. The star of the show, Marley, is actually several different Labs who played the role to reflect the various age stages of Marley during the film. His family adopted another chocolate Lab, Seamus , after Clinton's presidency ended. Was this page helpful? Dog domestic dog The Labrador Retriever, or simply Labrador, is a British breed of retriever gun dog. It was developed in the United Kingdom from fishing dogs imported from the colony of Newfoundland now a province of Canada , and was named after the Labrador region of that colony. It is among the most commonly kept dogs in several countries, particularly in the European world. The Labrador is friendly, energetic, and playful. It may also be trained as a guide or assistance dog , or for rescue or therapy work. Another early advocate of these Newfoundland fishing dogs was the 2nd Earl of Malmesbury , who bred them for their expertise in waterfowling. The dogs Buccleuch Avon and Buccleuch Ned, given by Malmesbury to Buccleuch, were mated with bitches carrying blood from those originally imported by the 5th Duke and the 10th Earl of Home. The offspring are the ancestors of all modern Labradors. John's water dogs bred by European settlers in Newfoundland were first introduced to Britain from ships trading between Canada and Poole in Dorset. These were then bred with British hunting dogs to create what became known as the Labrador Retriever. Early writers have confused the Labrador with the much larger Newfoundland and the Lesser Newfoundland , with Charles St. John even referring to the Lesser Newfoundland as the Newfoundland. Colonel Peter Hawker describes the first Labrador as being not larger than an English Pointer , more often black than other colours, long in its head and nose with a deep chest, fine legs, and short and smooth coat, and did not carry its tail as highly as the Newfoundland. John's breed of these dogs [6] [7] in the fifth edition of his book Introductions to Young Sportsman, published in .Black Chocolate There is a great deal of variety among Labradors. The following characteristics are typical of the conformation show bred bench-bred lines of this breed in the United States and are based on the American Kennel Club standard. Size: Labradors are a medium-large breed. They should be as long from the withers to the base of the tail as they are from the floor to the withers. The AKC standard includes an ideal weight for dogs of 25—36 kg 55—80 lb and for bitches as 25—32 kg 55—70 lb. The coat is water-resistant, so the dog does not get cold when taking to the water in the winter. That means that the dog naturally has a slightly dry, oily coat. Acceptable colours are black, yellow, and chocolate. The eyes should be kind and expressive. Appropriate eye colours are brown and hazel. The lining around the eyes should be black. The ears should hang close to the head and be set slightly above the eyes. Jaws: The jaws should be strong and powerful. The muzzle should be of medium length and should not be too tapered. The jaws should hang slightly and curve gracefully back. Body: The body should have a powerful and muscular build. The tail and coat are designated "distinctive [or distinguishing] features" of the Labrador by both the Kennel Club and AKC. If a dog carried wild type alleles at all three loci, the dog will have a yellow coat. If a dog has a loss-of-function mutation at MC1R, it will also have a yellow coat, regardless of their genotype at the other two loci. Within the breed, this trait is not visible. Show and field lines[ edit ] Head and muzzle appearance: field left , and show right , showing the shorter muzzle length, more solid appearance head, and "pronounced" stop of the latter As a result of specialised breeding, there are significant differences between field and trial-bred and show-bred lines of Labradors. In the United States, the former are sometimes mistakenly referred to as "American" and the latter as "English", in fact, both field and show types are bred in both countries and all Labrador Retrievers are descended from British lines. In this experiment, German Shepherds had the highest chance of not completing it. However, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers had a higher success rate after going through longer training than the training required for Labrador Retrievers. For retrieving the Labrador Retriever has a soft mouth , a trait that allows it to carry game and waterfowl without damaging it. It continues in that role today, along with the Leonberger , Newfoundland and Golden Retriever dogs; they are used at the Italian School of Canine Lifeguard. During the Vietnam War they were used as scout dogs to track down dead or wounded soldiers or enemy positions. Notable issues related to health and well-being include inherited disorders and obesity most are missing all or parts of the appetite-regulating POMC gene. As of , it was widely considered the most popular breed in the world.

Protein provides your pet with energy and needs to run around and explore its environment, and it also provides the building blocks for strong muscle. We recommend choosing a brand with real meat like chicken Turkey or beef listed as its first ingredient. Avoid brands that use a meat by-product or a meat meal, and we also recommend avoiding brands that have corn or soy listed first. Real Fruits and Vegetables Foods containing real fruits and vegetables like raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, kale, spinach, carrots, and pumpkin can help provide your puppy with the vitamins and minerals needed to stay healthy. Omega fatty acids are crucial for healthy eye function in young, growing puppies and as a plus, they will help your puppy have a softer , shinier coat. Dry versus Wet Food Wet food as it is high in protein and very high in moisture adds in for a healthy hydration status, and in most cases, it consists of a more species-appropriate diet that resembles what dog ancestors evolved to eat. Now that your puppy is young and will be teething take advantage of starting the puppy on teeth brushing routine; it will save you lots of headaches in the future. Getting your puppy used to eat a mix of wet and dry food has the advantage of combining the best of both presentations. However, if you can only feed dry kibble to your dog you should make sure you add some moisture to it. Conclusion When choosing your next puppy food at PetSmart, we highly recommend our pet for the best overall. Another smart choice is our pick for the best value. Purina Pro Plan Focus Puppy Food provides your pet with the benefits of a wet food as our top choice at a lower cost. We hope you have enjoyed reading over these reviews and found a few brands you would like to try out. If we helped keep your notepad healthy, please share our look into the best puppy foods at PetSmart on Facebook and Twitter. See also:. What is the best food to give your dog with allergies? There are no perfect hypoallergenic diets, but synthetic amino acid-based diets come very close, according to Pucheu-Haston. Other veterinary-recommended diets for dogs with allergies include ultra-hydrolyzed and amino acid-based diets, which are made up of tiny protein molecules that the immune system cannot recognize. If your dog has a fish allergy, you can try a plant-based food option like Open Farm's Kind Earth kibble, which has planted-based omega fatty acids and is free of fish oils. Can plant-based dog food help with allergies? Yes, plant-based dog food can help with allergies. While dogs are classified as carnivores, they are physiologically omnivores, which means they don't need an animal-based diet to obtain all their essential amino acids, according to Dottie Laflamme , DVM, Ph. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. She worked for Purina's research and development team until her retirement in .Why trust Select? Janelle Leeson is a Portland-based freelance writer with a bachelor of science degree in biology. Her approach to pet-care writing and reporting is rooted in scientific principles that consider a pet's biological need for play, proper nutrition and environmental enrichment. For this piece, Janelle interviewed two experts who specialize in veterinary dermatology and one expert who specializes in veterinary nutrition. She also researched dozens of dry dog foods on the market that met criteria based on our experts' insights. She included dog foods recommended by experts, along with those that are highly rated and meet expert shopping guidance. Janelle Leeson Janelle Leeson is a Portland, Oregon-based freelance writer who covers everything pets and a few subjects in between, including sustainability and clean beauty. For most of its life, Merrick was independent and also operated other brands like Castor and Pollux, and Whole Earth Farms. However, in , Merrick was acquired by Purina, which is probably the largest pet food group in the world. You can learn more about this acquisition and other important information relevant to Merrick in our Merrick Brand Review. The majority of the formulas in this range provide excellent nutrition from a range of high-quality ingredients. Ingredients used within this range include common meat and fish ingredients such as Chicken or Beef, but it also includes less common meats such as Rabbit or Venison. Their Chicken formula is one of their best and includes a mix of Chicken and Turkey ingredients. Both of these poultry ingredients are industry standards and can provide an ample portion of high-quality protein and fat. These poultry ingredients are then combined with Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, and Peas. The proportions of Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes are far higher than the proportion of legumes and make up the bulk of the satisfactory carbohydrate proportion. Sweet Potatoes, in particular, are considered the best starch ingredient to be used in dog food and can provide a number of micronutrients that traditional white potatoes can not. You can learn more about the background of the Wellness brand and other information such as their ingredients and nutrition in our Wellness Brand Review. Their Core Ocean Formula is one of our favorites and features a variety of fish ingredients. These Fish ingredients combine to provide an ample portion of fish-based protein and fat, in particular, the Omega 3 Fatty Acids, which many believe can provide several health benefits to dogs such as an improvement in the condition of skin and coat, as well as improve cognitive function. Many of you may not be familiar with Menhaden Fish Meal, and fear not as you are not alone. Menhaden are a small oily fish from the Atlantic Ocean that is low-cost yet rich in protein and is regularly used by manufacturers to boost protein levels rather than the alternative such as low-quality and low-cost vegetable by-products like Pea Protein. However, they are one of the better brands that is available at PetSmart, and they have many high-quality formulas. The brand was first launched in , making them a long stay of the industry compared to some newcomers. You can find the full range of unconventional recipe names along with information on recalls and animal testing in our Solid Gold Brand Review. Quail is quite an unusual ingredient to see in dog or human food, but it is very similar to Chicken and provides excellent nutrition. The formula also makes use of smaller portions of Turkey and Pork, which, when combined with the Quail, offer a satisfactory proportion of animal-based protein and fat. The formula also makes use of a substantial number of vegetable and starch ingredients of varying quality. While some ingredients, such as Peas and Chickpeas, are standard inclusions in grain-free dog food, others, such as vegetable by-products like Pea Protein, are considered by many to be lower quality. Lastly, the formula also makes use of Pumpkin as a minor ingredient. Pumpkin is a particularly beneficial ingredient, especially to those with digestive issues, and provides a mix of fiber, carbohydrates, and vitamins. The brand was launched to cater to the higher-quality or more nutritious pet food market fueled by smarter and more aware consumers. Crave is commonly available at large retail stores like PetSmart and Walmart, along with other smaller pet food stores. Each formula within the Pate range contains both traditional meat cuts alongside organ meat. Finally, none of their Pate recipes contain a significant amount of vegetable ingredients, let alone frowned upon by-products or grains. The only other notable inclusions are minor portions of some binding agents like Guar Gum. Their Wet Dog Food range shares many of the qualities of its dry food range that we discussed earlier. In the above Real Beef Formula, this correlates to a minimum of .The percentage of carbohydrates is so low in this Real Beef formula that we would consider it negligible. This lack of carbohydrates and plant matter is likely to make this formula extremely appealing to a hungry dog and unlikely to last more than a few minutes. This wet dog food range includes Limit Ingredient recipes, Small Breed recipes, Stews, and Pates, but we are going to stick with their Core 95 range. While some other wet dog food formulas only contain meat ingredients, these Wellness Core 95 formulas also contain a small amount of a less commonly used vegetable ingredient. In the case of the above Turkey formula, it includes Spinach as its secondary ingredient. Other formulas within the Core 95 range make use of vegetables such as Broccoli and Carrots, and all three varieties are entirely pea and legume-free, which can be advantageous to those dogs with legume allergies. Now is a good time to reiterate that wet dog food is significantly more costly than dry food. This is the case for this Wellness recipe and for the other formulas mentioned above. However, some dog owners choose to use a mix of dry and wet food as a consequence of the higher price in an attempt to make it more affordable. This mixing technique can provide your canine friend with the best of both worlds without breaking the bank. While many of the Purina brands have been around for decades, Purina Beyond is a more recent addition to the mix and appeals to more knowledgeable consumers in the same way other new brands like Crave do. However, Purina Beyond still retains competitive pricing making it a great lower-cost option. You can learn more about Purina Beyond, including its full product range, and recall history in our Purina Beyond Brand Review. The above formula caught our eye and is a fantastic option for those who want to provide canned dog food on a tight budget. It will come as no surprise that Chicken is the main ingredient of the recipe and provides the bulk of the protein and fat. The three ingredients mentioned in the recipe name are joined by Liver, which can provide additional animal-based protein and fat along with select minerals and vitamins that usual meat cuts lack. While Peas may feature in nearly all dog food recipes, Carrots certainly do not and are a far rarer sight, which does make this formula more unique. While Carrots are not going to provide anything revolutionary from a nutrition standpoint, they can be considered a beneficial addition and provide a mix of carbohydrates, fiber, and some vitamins and minerals. PetSmart is one of the leading pet store chains in the country. It sells all types of pet supplies, including clothes, toys, treats, and food. Just remember that the return policy may depend on the item in question. For instance, it may be different to return pet food than to return pet clothes. Your dog may not eat it. Otherwise, there is a risk that the food will make your dog ill. Regardless, you may want to take the food back for a refund. Today, consumers can return dry and wet dog food to PetSmart for a full refund. However, there are some stipulations. However, the refund will come in the form of store credit. One of the main ways it does this is by offering a reasonable return policy. Typically, you can do so conveniently. Regardless, you can rest assured knowing that you can take the item back to PetSmart. However, you must remember that this is only for unopened pet food. If the food has been opened, you can return it within 14 days. However, there might be an alternative solution. If you speak to a manager, they might be able to help you return the item after the period has elapsed. If this is the case, you may still be able to return the dog food. It depends on how long it has been since you purchased the dog food. After 14 days, you may be able to convince the manager to accept the return. However, it is best to return the food within 14 days to avoid potential problems. Remember that the food should still be in the original packaging to get a return. Typically, PetSmart can complete the refund using two methods. First, they can use your receipt. Second, the company can look up your transaction using your credit or debit card. In addition to this, the company can likely find information about the transaction by using its rewards program. Be sure to bring a valid photo ID to ensure that you can complete the transaction quickly. They can be picky eaters. While some will eat anything, others will not. Can you return the food to PetSmart if your dog refuses to eat it? Typically, you can. PetSmart is happy to accept returns for dog food that your pet refuses to eat. It is best to bring your receipt. Before taking the food back to the store, make sure it is fully sealed. Otherwise, you might spill it in the store. Thankfully, you can. The process is quick and convenient. It is often cheaper and easier to take the food to your local PetSmart. Be sure to bring your receipt or invoice to ensure that the return can be completed quickly. Even if the bag has been opened, PetSmart will accept the return. In some cases, the company may refuse to authorize your return. For instance, if you try to return several bags of dog food each day, you might experience issues. Thankfully, more people only need to return one or two bags every few months.

Whether your Poodle is a standard, miniature or an itty bitty teacup pup, you want to choose a cute name for them that really fits their personality! Here are some great male and female names for your poodle. Top 10 Precious Poodle Dog Names Here are our top 10 favorites divided up between male and female ideas! This is a cute name for a poodle that is charming, funny and pleasant. Caesar is an imperial title given to an emperor during Roman Times, most notably Julius Caesar. Charley— The name Charley is from French origin, meaning free man. Charley was the faithful companion, a black standard Poodle, of famed author, John Steinbeck. Claude— The name Claude is from French origin, meaning lame, enclosure. Claude was the cream-colored pet poodle of Milburn and Margaret Drysdale on the television series- The Beverly Hillbillies. Frederic— The name Frederic is from French origin, meaning peaceful ruler. This is a great name for a poodle that has a presence about him, because there have been a few notable men in the arts field in history. Frederic Edwin Church was a landscape painter, Frederic Remington was an Old West painter, sculptor and writer and Frederic Tuten was an essayist, novelist and short story writer. Rusty— The name Rusty is from French origin, meaning fox-colored. Ginger— The name Ginger is from English origin, meaning chaste, pure. Ginger is a flowering plant that is used in cooking and traditional medicine. Throughout history, some notable females have been named Ginger. Mirabella— The name Mirabella is from Latin origin, meaning wonderful. Molly— The name Molly is from Hebrew origin, meaning wished-for child. Vicky— The name Vicky is from Latin origin, meaning triumphant, victory. Vicky seems to be a popular name for soap opera characters. I found inspiration in those wonderful traits to help you find the perfect name for your new puppy! Check out my favorites for girls! Black Poodle Names A black poodle When a friend bought her jet black standard poodle, she named her Nova. We thought this was a wonderful name for a black poodle. Other popular names for black poodles include Raven, Midnight, Luna, and Ember. Blue and Silver Poodle Names A silver poodle The blue poodle has a unique grayish-blue coat that looks almost like a sky before a thunderstorm. For this reason, Thunder and Stormy make great names for a blue or silver poodle. Other great names for this color include Ginger, Bear, and Cookie. Cream Poodle Names A cream poodle There is just something about a cream poodle with a dark nose and eyes. Sporty Poodle Names If you plan on doing agility competitions with your poodle, consider naming him after a famous athlete such as Phelps after Michael Phelps, Lebron after Lebron James, or Serena after Serena Williams. Or, name her after your favorite athlete or an athlete who is well known in your favorite sport. Historical Poodle Names Many poodle owners want to choose royal or historical names for their classy, regal poodles. Some owners like to give their poodles a full name with a nickname to go along. You could name your poodle after famous historical kings and queens such as Georgia, Philip, Elizabeth, or Katherine. While it is true that these are typically human names, many owners are now using historically human names for their pets and calling them by a nickname. Other historical names are more common for dogs and less common for humans in modern times. Literary Poodle Names There is no shortage of famous literary names for your poodle. You could also name your poodle after your favorite author if you prefer that overusing the names of literary characters. You can use the first or last name of your favorite author. Poodle Names Beginning with a Specific Alphabet Use our poodle generator to pick a name for your poodle that starts with specific alphabets. Some movie names and literary names overlap, of course, because so many famous books have been made into iconic movies. Sansa Stark is a smart red-headed character in the show. My poodle is also a red-colored poodle and she is also very smart. Do you have a favorite movie or tv show or a favorite character? Go ahead and name your favorite companion after your favorite actor or character! This is not entirely true, though. There are some names that you should not name your dog. Dogs cannot decipher the difference between names when they sound too similar. Your dog might get confused, then, if his name sounds too much like another name in your household. For example, if you name your dog Tad, he might get confused and not know the difference between when he is being called and when your children are calling for their dad. Maybe you do not have children in the house, so that is not a problem. But it could become a problem in the future. So try to avoid names that rhyme with Mom or Dad as well as names that rhyme with your first name or the first names of anyone in the household. This will prevent any confusion during training. Here is How to Do it Right If you are rescuing an adult poodle, you may want to give that dog a new name , and that is okay. You are giving that dog a new life with you, so a new name is fitting. Most dog trainers have agreed that a dog will adjust to a name change. This will help your poodle to associate good things with the new name, making him more likely to enjoy hearing his new name Tips For Naming Your Poodle for AKC Registration When you register your dog with the American Kennel Club, you will give your dog a name. This name is not the name you will normally call your dog. Your dog will also have a call name. The reason for giving your dog a different AKC name from his call name is because the AKC name will have to be unique. So many dogs have been registered with AKC over the years that you will need to give your dog a unique name so that you or others can look up his information easily. Often, if a kennel is of particular notability, people will want to use the kennel name in their AKC name. The kennel needs to grant permission to owners to do this if they would like to use the kennel name in the AKC registration name for their dog. It is important that you give your poodle a name that the AKC will accept should you want to register your poodle with the AKC. Our Poodle Name Generator. To use this poodle name generator, check the element s that you want in a poodle name. However, you need to be practical about how many options you select. Selecting too many options will limit the number of names that the generator can find. It is not practical to find a name that is typical for a toy poodle that is athletic and apricot, while the name is funny, and French. The purpose of the generator is to give you ideas on what to name your poodle. Therefore, you should start with a broad search by selecting one or two options , and then narrowing down your options by selecting more options until you find the perfect name or name idea for your poodle. Our poodle name generator is backed by the comprehensive poodle name database on the internet. Our poodle name generator database has over poodle names. Moreover, we are constantly adding more names to our database. You will find more poodle names and poodle name ideas every time you return to our poodle name generator. If you have a poodle name or a poodle name idea, leave a comment below telling us what name you have and the poodle of what characteristic s that deserves such a name. We will add your poodle name to our database. Also, if you have any suggestions on how to improve our poodle name generator, drop us a comment. Selecting too many options might result in no names. He got Rufus I first, but Rufus I sadly died in a car accident. Winston Churchill and Rufus, his brown mini Poodle. Who is Masterpiece the Poodle? Masterpiece is a toy poodle in the s that belonged to Alexis Pulaski. Masterpiece the toy poodle was the most valuable dog in the world at one time. His stud service was equally expensive. On one fateful day, Masterpiece suddenly disappeared. His disappearance made newspaper headlines in the USA. Luckily, Masterpiece was later found intact no pun intended. Leonard is the name of the poodle in The Secret Life of Pets. The Secret Life of Pets featured Leonard the poodle, who you may have seen in the trailers, in a minor role. Leonard is a punk, fun-loving dog that loves to blast loud music. She is a flamboyant, stylish lavender purple poodle. Our list includes a summary of Oliver and Company. In the movie, Sequin learned about fashion from Barbie. In Best in Show, Rhapsody in White is owned by a married couple going through a strained spot in their relationship. Click here to see our list of 45 amazing poodle movies. Our list includes a summary of Best in Show. Anything but Sue! Sophie Walter With these wide-ranging lists, choosing a poodle name should be pretty easy for you. Among the thousands of dog names we found, we have carefully narrowed down the choices to make things simpler. Happy naming! If you are confused and want help on choosing a name for your furry friend, we are here for you. Most dog owners get a pup or an adult dog and go blank when it comes to picking a name for their four-legged companion. But do not worry. You are here and it is now our responsibility to help and take you through the process. Choose a dog name you like, from the bottom of your heart. You need to call the name now and then, so be sure you like it in the first place. Try to pick a short and sweet name, a one or two-syllable name would be ideal. Longer names are hard for your pet to understand while it will be a hassle for you too. Avoid names that sound like command. Dominating dogs will not like you calling such names. Avoid using terms that sound embarrassing or are offensive. Choose a simple yet interesting name. Avoid complicated names. You can choose a name for your pup and see how he responds for a few days. However, avoid changing the name of your dog if he is already an adult and knows his name very well. More Name Ideas For Poodle Dogs If you are very passionate about Poodle love dogs and want more options for naming your pet, we have more naming guides found here. Choosing the perfect name is the first step towards developing a bond between you and your poodle. Get it right and enjoy an unbreakable bonding. To conclude, we suggest you name your dog after anything you like. As long as you and your poodle love the name, it is fine. We consistently work to provide you with more informative stuff related to dogs. We are happy you are here, and we will be more glad if you picked a name from the lists above. Let us know what you chose in the comments section below. Related Posts. Boomer Kobe Of course, there are the incredibly popular Labradoodle and Goldendoodle, which are fairly simple to picture a name for. However, there are a few relatively unfamiliar names on this list, such as the Whoodle or Flandoodle, which may be more difficult to assign a name to. Choosing the Perfect Name for Your Doodle by Breed The perfect name for 20 popular doodle breeds include: Labradoodle: Labradoodles, a mix between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, are an incredibly popular poodle mix due to their affectionate nature, the simple grooming process, and dashing looks. A good name for a Labradoodle would have to accentuate these qualities, which is why Teddy is the perfect name for a Labradoodle. Goldendoodle: Goldendoodles, a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle , are another excessively popular mixed breed for similar reasons. Goldendoodles are particularly high energy and love to play, so the name given to them should allude to this nature. This is why the perfect name for a Goldendoodle is Zelda. Huskydoodle: The elegant Huskydoodle, a cross between a Siberian Husky and a Poodle, is an incredibly outgoing, energetic dog with a penchant for mischief. These dogs love to be outdoors where they can show off their good looks and play. Therefore, the perfect name for a Huskydoodle is Hamilton. Yorkipoo: Yorkipoos are a mix between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Poodle. Yorkshire Terriers are known for their petite adorableness as well as their rambunctious nature. Yorkipoos share this unruly demeanor and can be quite standoffish at first. These qualities make Barksy the perfect name for your Yorkipoo. Sheepadoodle: The Sheepadoodle, a mix between an Old English Sheepdog and a Poodle, is a gargantuan poodle mix, reaching 30 pounds after just four months. These Doodles love to play but are also incredibly work driven and will likely herd you and your family members. This work ethic makes Gizmo the perfect name for your Sheepadoodle. Cavapoos are slightly more petite and tremendously adorable but are quite prone to separation anxiety. Thus, the perfect name for a Cavapoo is Gatsby. These roots also impact the size of a Saint Berdoodle, which is frequently over pounds when mature. A dog of this stature and character can only be called Barnabus. Aussiedoodle The Aussiedoodle, a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, is a strikingly gorgeous Poodle mix with high energy, flexibility, and eagerness to please. These qualities are best accentuated by a name like Ziggy for your Aussiedoodle. These dogs can vary in coat color but are generally quite steady in attitude, which is calm and collected. The most aptly suited name for these qualities is King. Peekapoo: Peekapoos, a cross between a Pekingese and a Poodle, is an incredibly loving poodle mix that is simple to groom. However, this Doodle is typically encumbered by a myriad of health issues that make it a difficult dog to care for, particularly around children. This tragically waifish quality makes Tiny Tim the perfect name for a Peekapoo. Whoodle: The Whoodle, a mix of a Wheaton Terrier and a Poodle, is a rare Poodle mix, which means there is limited information about its character and physical traits. This Poodle mix is quite the mystery, and its rarity only adds to its mystique. Thus, the perfect name for the Whoodle is Diamond. Bernedoodle: The Bernedoodle, a mix between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, is a gorgeous, tri-colored Poodle mix that loves attention and playtime. Bernedoodles are quite the challenge to groom, but their beautiful fur makes it absolutely worth it. The perfect name to accentuate these qualities is Bernie. Westiepoo: The Westiepoo, a cross between a West Highland Terrier and a Poodle, is quite the mischievous little creature. This Poodle mix creates a high energy dog that loves to play but often lets its curiosity distract it into doing dastardly deeds. The name that best calls to mind these qualities are Dax Shepard. Boxerdoodle: The Boxerdoodle, a cross between a Boxer and a Doodle, is an affectionate Poodle mix that is also particularly easy to train. These dogs are easy-going, fun, and always eager to please, making them the perfect companion. Therefore, the name that best suits the Boxerdoodle is Rocky. Mastidoodle: The Mastidoodle, a mix between an English Mastiff and a Poodle, is a prodigious, albeit calm , the beast with elegant, wavy fur. Thus, the perfect name for the Mastidoodle is Ivy. Irish Doodle: The Irish Doodle, a mix between an Irish Setter and a Poodle, is one of the few Poodle mixes on this list whose fur turns red as a result of the mix. Its beautiful rustic fur and its love of the outdoors makes Scotty the perfect name for an Irish Doodle. Pugapoo: The Pugapoo, a cross between a Pug and a Poodle, is quite the popular commodity in the designer dog world. These dogs are quite petite and tend to be overly reliant on their owners. The perfect name to delineate these qualities related to your Pugapoo is Minion. This Poodle mix calls for a name that represents its heritage and its uniqueness. Therefore, Croissant is the perfect name for a Flandoodle. This Poodle mix is slightly more heavyset than the Irish Doodle but still packs in plenty of energy. The perfect name for the Irish Troodle in your life is Josh. Rottle: Rottles, a mix of a Rottweiler and a Poodle, is a relatively large Poodle mix with the guardian instinct of a Rottweiler and the fluffiness of a Poodle. The fluffiness of Rottle fur combined with their intimidating stature makes them look particularly earthy. This quality makes Sage the perfect name for a Rottle. Top 10 Most Popular Male Poodle Names We have gone over many names that are particularly well-suited to either the size or mixed breed of the Poodle you are looking to name. However, sometimes when the more obscure names are not hitting that sweet spot, it is best to stick with the hits.