collar size for standard poodle puppy

This, combined with their sweet nature and elegant looks, makes them excellent family pets. However, they can live between 10 and 18 years — this makes them a commitment. Some good signs include a list of health tests that can be cross-referenced with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals OFA , willingness to show documentation of all test results, and membership in dog clubs American Kennel Club, United Kennel Club, or Canadian Kennel Club. If you decide to purchase a puppy from a pet store, make sure to check their reviews on Google, Yelp, and other directories; for example, there are several pet stores in Texas selling poodle puppies with 1. When talking to a breeder, do not be afraid to ask questions — check if they test their dogs and keep them current on vaccinations and other treatments. A lot of breeders will also ask you a lot of questions too to make sure their puppies go to a loving home — as you have noticed, many of the breeders on our list require you to fill out an application or questionnaire. Breeders that only care about your ability to pay the full price should be avoided. Remember that not all breeders have available puppies at all times and that it is normal to be placed on a waiting list. Check how many litters they have each year as the American Kennel Club AKC considers 7 or more litters a year to be a high volume breeding — breeders with lots of puppies might not properly raise and socialize each animal. If visiting in person, check the environment the puppies are raised in — make sure that they are kept in clean areas, there are toys dogs can play with, they have enough room to exercise, there is a fresh water source, and that the puppies are clean and well-groomed. After getting a puppy, have a veterinarian inspect it in the first 48 hours. Remember to check with the breeder that the sire and the dam have been tested and found free of specific hereditary health problems, as this increases your chance of getting a healthy puppy. As with any other purchase, before buying a miniature poodle, make sure to do a lot of research, do not buy from the first farm you visit, and take each of these points and many others into consideration when choosing your next pet. Summary And there you have it! Make sure to call at reasonable hours and check if the seller currently has any available for sale, see the animal in person, or request a video call verification, before paying for anything in advance. Poodles can be great pets as they are friendly, easy to maintain, cute, smart, and entertaining animals. Remember to take care of your new pet regularly to ensure it lives a long and happy life. Post navigation. She has a playful spirit and is always the life of the party. She can be super playful with the kids or just kick back and lay with me and watch a movie. She is the perfect size and a wonderful companion. I could not ask for a better poodle. Moyen poodles are so hard to find or let me rephrase that true and high quality moyens are hard to find! Thank you for producing such an amazing little girl. She looks just like her dad Romeo! You do the very best breeding! To think that she will be 2 years old June 29th is hard for us to believe! Loving, sweet and beautiful! Thank you for such careful breeding! Our grand-daughter got a little girl from you last summer after seeing Zoe! Now she has her sweet Babs and is thrilled! Thank you again! We are so happy for you! Jonah is amazing, smart and loving beyond all our poodles during this puppy stage. He makes us laugh constantly and is always ready for a game of whatever, just as long as it is a game. Thank you! She is precious little one. She is so cute, and so sweet. She has so much energy. She can definitely keep up with our Standard Poodle. They run and run and have the best time. She has really developed lots of muscles and a great personalaity. Our vet says she is amazing!! She is so sweet with everyone and great with small children. I would definitely have another Moyen Poodle. I am going to give her a hair cut today, so will send another picture today or tomorrow, but sending one today that was taken a few months back. She definitely has a nice personality and a real love. I just wanted to write and let you know how Charlie is doing. He is one year old today! When we talked to you on the phone about adopting Charlie you said that you could refer us to others who could talk all day long about their dogs. Well, that is us now because he is an amazing fellow! When we were at your house and sitting on your sofa he climbed, or maybe marched is a better word, up my husbands arms and curled up behind my husbands neck. All the way home to Wake Forest, NC about 8 hours he insisted on climbing up my shoulders and sitting on the back of my neck. He is great with our three young kids and his size is exactly as you described. He is about 23 pounds and still has some growing to do. He is very calm around people and other dogs. I took him to obedience class yesterday and then to a meeting and during both he just laid at my feet quietly and patiently. To look at him, you would not believe he is still a puppy because he often acts much more mature than his age 6 months. He has learned everything we have taught him superfast. I cannot say enough good things about this dog! You can tell he stayed with the litter an appropriate amount of time by the way he acts with her. I love him with all my heart and soul. Let me know when the puppies arrive. If they are not all spoken for. .I may know some folks interested in seeing them. Thanks for such a wonderful dog and companion. Our babies are held and socialized from day one. And we are always available to answer any questions you may have before or after you purchase a Texas Standard Poodle. We breed selectively to produce only the best quality in health and temperament. All of our babies are raised in close contact with our family and they are they are treated with round the clock care and love until they are ready to make the big move to your home. Standard Poodles are very smart but as with all puppies, they will act out at first. Being prepared for your new family member will make the transition a lot smoother for everyone, and in a couple of weeks your little Texas Standard Poodle should be all settled in and making the whole family smile. You are responsible for the airfare and the fee for taking the baby on the plane, and we will pay the pet nanny. They will have safe passage and our personal care every step of the way til they are safely delivered to you. This service is less expensive the farther out you plan, so please let us know in advance. Call or text inquiries to .Click Here to see our Available Puppies!! NuVet wafers and powder are filled with natural amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and herbs formulated to keep your dog healthy for years to come. Please call and use Order Code: , or visit www. Puppy Email Notification List. We are currently raising gorgeous multi colored Parti Poodles and solid colored in miniature and soon, toy sizes. We started in standards but have made the move to smaller sizes. We feel very passionate about health testing, showing, and titling our poodles for our Poodle breeder program though we do give preference to pet puppy homes. More Than Amazing Color While we understand color is part of what makes Parti Poodles so popular, we want you to know that we place high emphasis on temperament and type or build, in our partis and well as solids, so your puppy will grow into a eye catching and distinguished adult that is as sweet and intelligent as any poodle should be. Conformation Show Titles We are proud of our show titles! We understand families searching for a pet do not need a show dog, we do this so families know that what they have purchased from us represents a great amount of knowledge and hard work. We test our Poodles against other great dogs so that we can know our breeding dogs are worthy of your family both in soundness of temperament and that they truly are representations of their breed. We do give preference to pet homes for our puppies. Testament to Temperament We have donated to date five puppies for service dog training and so far, all of our candidates have graduated and gone on to service work! We feel this is a real testament to what we strive to produce for families that want to purchase a puppy from MnJ- a great, stable, sweet and social family member. We are currently raising gorgeous multi colored Parti Poodles and solid colored in small standard and miniature sizes. While many will think we have Moyen Poodles, in truth the FCI breed standard for this size is very misunderstood so we avoid using a marketing term. Past Puppies Just a few of our past puppies so you can get an idea of what we offer!

Share 0 Shares When looking for Golden Retriever puppies for sale in California, it is important to keep the quality of the breeder in mind. You want to make sure that the breeders use healthy parents that have undergone testing for genetic health as well as health for eyes, heart, hips, and elbows. Golden Retrievers are prone to cancer , so a knowledgeable breeder is imperative. Consider looking into a breeder who uses English Golden Retrievers in their program. English lines have been shown to have up to a two-year longer lifespan than purely American lines. English Golden Retrievers are often lighter than standard American Goldens. Another aspect to consider when looking for a Golden Retriever puppy in California is if the parents have any Championship titles. This could be in conformation, obedience, agility, or even hunting. Depending on what you want to accomplish with your puppy, these aspects might be important to you. If you are wanting a purebred Golden Retriever, it is also advisable to get a puppy from an AKC registered breeder. It is a small family kennel that breeds English Golden Retrievers. They are passionate about raising quality dogs bred from genetically healthy parents that also pass their health certifications. The puppies are raised inside the home and treated like one of their own dogs. They are well socialized and go through a great enrichment program during their developmental time at Nicholberry farms. Many puppies from this breeder have gone on to become certified therapy dogs. There is even a part of their website dedicated to their puppies that have gone on to be working dogs from therapy to bomb detection to acting! They clearly love their puppies and are a great opinion for considering a future furry family member. To ensure the safety of our readers and the right fit for a new pet, we work hard to make sure only the most trusted breeders are featured on the site. We have a dedicated team that works hard and has done extensive research that involves checking both the breeder and their dogs, to verify that the breeders featured on our site are highly reputable and trustworthy. Feedback on Google and Facebook is also taken into consideration before they are listed as a breeder to have the highest standards possible. We hope that this gives you a little more information about how we list breeders on our site. Golden Retriever Puppies for Sale in California: Golden Retrievers are a hugely popular breed worldwide, thanks to their reputation as loyal pets and good hunting dogs. However, with so many breeders to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one is the best fit for you and your family. California is a great state to get a Golden Retriever, and there are plenty of reputable and ethical breeders to choose from. I have compiled a list of the top 14 Golden Retriever breeders in California, based on their breeding history, customer reviews, and service quality. Most of these breeders are hobbyists who breed for love, not money. With this list, you should be able to find the perfect Golden Retriever for your family. They are located in Southern California and they pride themselves on being an ethical breeder of quality Golden Retriever dogs. They source their breeding stock from all over the USA and Europe. This allows them to get the best genetics possible and produce healthy offspring. They want all of their puppies to go to good homes where they will be loved as family members. Additionally, all puppies are sold with limited registration. This means that the new family will not be able to breed their dog. The breeder only wants their puppies to go to homes where they will be treated as family dogs and not used for breeding purposes. The pups come microchipped, vets checked, dewormed, and doggy door trained. They also come with a 1-year health guarantee. Golden Retriever Breeder Info:. A program that first and foremost gives our dogs personal care and love everyday. Our dogs are our life. Providing them with the best in quality food and veterinary care is first and foremost. The selection of a particular Golden for conformation is only one element the long study of each dog. In addition to conditioning our dogs for conformation, a well adjusted family friend and companion is only made more loving by working with others in community. The above mentioned actions are indicative of a professional breeding program. However, we do all these things because our dogs are our life and we love them. We had to say good bye to our family and friends in North Carolina due to Hurricane Florence. Nothing like a hurricane and coast to coast interstate move to spice up life post military service. Despite all these life changing events; our beautiful Goldens have been blessed with the completion of several AKC Champion titles. We are both originally from California; relocating to San Luis Obispo County has allowed us to reconnect with family and friends from the West coast. We are now located in Coastal California, and look forward to building new connections with new friends from the NorCal Kennel Club and others in San Luis Obispo area who love Goldens and other four legged friends. They take their breeding philosophy seriously, which calls for health testing and clearances to ensure the health and well-being of their puppies. They go the extra mile by providing spacious puppy yards and a custom-built puppy training center for potty breaks, nap time, and learning manners. Additionally, they pamper pooches with a certified dog groomer and offer programs like the Canine Good Citizen CGC Program, which emphasizes responsible pet ownership and etiquette. They use an ENS process to stimulate the nervous system. It also improves the immune system, the cardiovascular system, and increases stress tolerance. They also crate train all the puppies. All their pups are raised at home and are allowed to play and socialize with other animals on their 3-acre land. Best believe the pups enjoy prancing around the yard and swimming. Nicholbery Goldens have proudly produced top-notch therapy dogs and have a training academy for well-tempered and intelligent Goldens. The breeder is so famous that their waitlist is usually full 6 months to a year in advance, so make your way over to their website soon! They soon realized that the breed was neglected in development and socialization, and the rest is history. A member of the Golden Retriever Club of America, today, the breeder is known for producing some of the best Golden Retrievers. All their pups are raised and given basic training at home. They are also proudly AKC registered. Due to their successful breeding and training, they have begun a training program called Fluffy Buttz. The whole family enjoys taking care of the puppies and contributes in some way. As a result, they are well-socialized. On their acre land, they ensure each pup gets enough physical exercise and mental stimulation for a well-rounded, healthy dog. The family goes above and beyond to ensure every home gets the Golden Retriever of their dreams. Always take the time to visit a facility and meet the puppies in person.

Though size varies between individuals, a standard German Shepherd weighs about 60 pounds. Whether you already own a German Shepherd pup or are looking into it, be prepared for a hefty lap dog! Continue to 7 of 16 below. They were originally bred for their striking good looks and intelligence, making for a great working dog on the police force and in the military. They were so cute that dog-lovers in other countries soon caught on and began breeding them themselves. Continue to 8 of 16 below. These dogs are very protective of their homes and family and make excellent guard dogs. Continue to 9 of 16 below. They need stimulation, even if they are a family pet and not a trained deputy. This can be in the form of playful games, puzzle toys, tricks , and obedience training. Otherwise, German Shepherds may show off some unpleasant behavior, like chewing. Continue to 10 of 16 below. Continue to 11 of 16 below. Continue to 12 of 16 below. They perk up as they grow older, making them look extra tall and important. Continue to 13 of 16 below. Beautiful all black and all white German Shepherds are out there, too. Continue to 14 of 16 below. Continue to 15 of 16 below. This breed is inherently athletic and courageous—nothing can stop them, not even water. Continue to 16 of 16 below. These pups are incredibly intelligent and capable canines who are ready to work. And German Shepherd puppies are too cute! Remember, you can get any kind of dog, including a GSD, from shelters and rescues, so always adopt! They tend to be one-family pets, meaning they can be suspicious of strangers. Although absolutely gorgeous, Shepherds are shedders to the max. Prepare for a snow globe of hair to poof off your pup any time you give them a big snuggle, which will be more often than not. When you first get your puppy, playing may consist of nipping due to their herding background. When your GSD is fully grown, they may love to wrestle around and forget how big they are. These pups are always up for snuggling with others, including kids and other pets. Softies Who Are Also Busy Bodies If you want a German Shepherd puppy in your life, you have to really want your dog to be a part of every little bit of your daily routine. Morning showers? Your pup will want to sit right outside to make sure you rinse off the soap. Your bed? Highly intelligent and curious, Shepherds want to know what is going on all of the time. German Shepherds will attach at the hip and make the right person the happiest dog parent on the planet. German Shepherd puppy in grass close-up of German Shepherd puppy German Shepherd puppy in profile German Shepherd puppy on rock German Shepherd puppy lying down on lawn German Shepherd puppy looking at camera German Shepherd puppy on snow German Shepherd puppy in yard Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. Would you adopt a German Shepherd Puppy? Do you have experience with these adorable pups? Let us know in the comments below! Our extensive collection features hundreds of stunning photos of these adorable canines in various poses, settings, and backgrounds. Type of Images Available Our collection of German Shepherd puppy images features a variety of different types of photos, including portraits, candid shots, outdoor and indoor images, and more. From close-ups of their expressive faces to action shots of them running and playing, our images capture the energy and character of this amazing breed. Our images can be used for a multitude of purposes, including websites, blog posts, advertisements, social media, books, magazines, and more. Whether you're sharing photos of your own German Shepherd puppy or you need images for a commercial project, our collection is a great resource. Tips for Choosing the Right Image Choosing the right image can make all the difference when it comes to creating a compelling design or message. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect image: Consider the mood you want to convey Think about the context in which the image will be used Look for images with high resolution and clarity Take into account the color scheme of your project and select images that complement it Choose images that have a clear focal point and aren't cluttered Why Choose Our Images? Our collection of German Shepherd puppy images offers a unique combination of quality, variety, and affordability. We pride ourselves in providing images that are visually stunning while still being accessible to a wide range of individuals and businesses. Plus, we offer flexible licensing options, including Royalty-free and Extended licenses, to fit your specific needs. With our images, you can create compelling projects that capture the essence of this beloved breed, no matter what your design or marketing goals may be. So why wait? Browse our collection today to discover the perfect German Shepherd puppy image for your next project!

Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in North Dakota? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in North Dakota work? Nothing is more charming than a French Bulldog North Dakota! French Bulldogs North Dakota have a very distinctive look, and their lollipop heads will make anyone laugh! Why are French Bulldogs so expensive? French Bulldog breeders in North Dakota and businesses know how complicated breeding French Bulldogs is. This is because French Bulldogs in North Dakota have one of the narrowest hips of all dog breeds. Therefore human interference needs to take place to breed them, in the form of artificial insemination. How does Uptown work? Uptown makes puppy picking really fun and simple. Just take a look at what the North Dakota French Bulldog breeders, businesses and companies have on offer, choose the French Bulldog for sale in North Dakota that pulls at your heartstrings, and connect with its breeder or business. How does Uptown Puppies view transparency when it comes to breeding puppies? How do I know that my puppy will be healthy? A healthy pup is a happy pup! The breeders and businesses in our network know this, and they make sure that all their French Bulldog puppies North Dakota are healthy before sending them to you. When your beautiful new French Bulldog for sale North Dakota arrives, be sure to take it to your vet for a thorough health checkup! Is it enough to walk my dog, or do they need more exercise? Nothing makes a French Bulldog for sale in North Dakota happier than walking with its owner! That way their muscles will be strong. Do you recommend specific food for my dog? Supermarket dog food is usually quite cheap - for a reason! What is the difference between a purebred dog and a mixed breed dog? Are French Bulldogs easy to train? French Bulldogs for sale in North Dakota are intelligent, and all training should be followed with treats, as well as positive reinforcement. What health issues do French Bulldogs have? Every single dog breed on Earth suffers from health issues, including North Dakota French Bulldogs for sale. These cute little French Bulldog puppies for sale North Dakota suffer from hip dysplasia, heat stroke, allergies, Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome, and some other health issues. Welcome to the North Dakota state page on TrustedPuppies. Located in the Upper Midwest region of the United States, North Dakota is known for its stunning landscapes, wide-open spaces, and a variety of dog-friendly activities. Our mission is to connect you with the best North Dakota French Bulldog breeders and puppies for sale. Our site features a wide variety of reputable breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our ND breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Discover the diverse dog-friendly experiences that North Dakota has to offer, from inviting restaurants to spacious dog parks and engaging dog shows. Share a meal with your furry companion at dog-friendly establishments like The Toasted Frog in Fargo or the Fireflour Pizzeria in Bismarck. For those interested in the dog show scene, events like the Fargo-Moorhead Kennel Club Dog Show offer fantastic opportunities to connect with fellow French Bulldog enthusiasts and admire these remarkable canines. In the rankings of dog ownership among the states, North Dakota occupies the 40th position, boasting an estimated thousand dogs. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable French Bulldog breeders offer secure and affordable flight delivery. A dedicated flight nanny accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring a safe and comfortable trip as they travel to their new home in the Peace Garden State. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option ensures your French Bulldog puppy is brought to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect French Bulldog puppy today on TrustedPuppies.

Funny German Shepherd Dog Quotes 1. A house is not a home without a German Shepherd. Unknown 2. The more I get to know about people, the more I get to love my German Shepherd. Unknown 3. The German shepherds are so smart that they understand every language you speak, not just German. Unknown 4. No one appreciates the very special genius of your conversation as a dog does. Christopher Morley 5. German shepherds are very hard working: they work like dogs. Unknown 6. Phil Pastoret 7. The average dog is nicer than the average person. Andy Rooney 8. Leave me alone. I am only talking to my German Shepherd. Unknown .The only thing better than coffee is my German Shepherd .Dogs never bite me. Just humans. Marilyn Monroe .If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog. Harry S. Truman German Shepherd Shedding quotes .All guests must first be approved by my German Shepherd. If you want to lose weight, adopt a German shepherd. They are the best running mate in the world. Your dog can become the toughest running partner that you have ever had and will keep you motivated. German Shepherd as Protector .German Shepherds like barking. Especially when they feel lonely being separated from their human family. When a German Shepherd gets lonely, you can expect a lot of barking. I believe in integrity. Dogs have it. Humans are sometimes lacking it. Cesar Millan .My German Shepherd can run 40 yards in 4 seconds. Want to try your luck? If you want to avoid your German Shepherd from barking at night, keep your four-legged buddy inside the house with you at night. Photo from: yogibear The GSD is among the finest purebred dogs out there. This super friendly and affectionate dog makes the perfect family pet for many families across the world. Dog lovers worldwide agree: the German Shepherd Dog is a high-quality purebred hound that can only enrich your life. From the former US president, Harry S. Truman, to celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, the love for this popular dog will never fade. Take a look at some of these popular, pretty standard quotes about this pooch! Just humans. Truman 3. I am only talking to my German Shepherd. To get the best idea about how much they shed, check out the following quotes: 1. Read the following quotes: 1. They are the best running mates in the world. German Shepherds Are Protectors Oh, boy, they are some protectors! Even German Shepherd puppies tend to develop that protective trait early on. Especially when they feel lonely being separated from their human family. Dogs have it. Humans sometimes lack it. Want to try your luck? We can only stop, look, and admire these canine heroes. Oh, and we can also take a look at quotes regarding GSDs as best friends: 1. A waterlogged stick will do just fine. How many people can you say that about? How many people can make you feel rare and pure and special? How many people can make you feel extraordinary? I see a friend, a family member, a protector. I have a German Shepherd. ME: 3 including the one with big ears that sheds all the time. Lots of celebrities have spoken about how special they are. The love for these cute dogs with tough appearances is real, and it makes for some great inspirational quotes. Take a look and see if your favorite actor or author loves the GSD too! This is the principal difference between a dog and a man. For me, they are the role model for being alive. Clinton .The lucky ones of us know that they have four paws. All dogs are special. The point is: all these quotes are awesome. Yeah, these German Shepherd quotes would make some pretty amazing merch. Post navigation.

Near a cafe At a dog-friendly store Keep training upbeat and fun and spread out the training sessions into only 2 to 3-minute bursts, 3 to 4 times a day. Practice frequently by integrating your training into your routine, such as: Lying down before their dinner Coming to you and sitting for their leash to be clipped Sitting before you open the door As long as you keep training exciting for them your German Shepherd is happy to participate! Create an indoor obstacle course Begin agility training indoors with the right creative thinking. With their natural desire to herd and move through obstacles, an indoor agility course is just what you need. Get creative using what you already have around the house: Empty cardboard boxes of varying sizes for your dog to go around Chairs or tables for your puppy to crawl under A sheet or towel draped over two stools for a make-shift tunnel Look around and use what you already own to start creating your indoor obstacle course. As long as you keep your dog safe from any falling objects and work within their health needs No jumping for puppies or GSDs with hip and joint issues! An even simpler solution is to buy a piece of agility equipment that you can use both indoors and out. Try this lightweight dog agility kit that sets up in minutes and is customizable for a variety of exercises. With hands closed into a light fist, place them in front of your dog to guess where the treat is. Let your dog sniff both of your hands. When they look bored, call them over to you and engage them in the game. You can even try this game outdoors to work on them interacting with you with distractions. This game is actually an amazing way to introduce scent games or scent tricks with your GSD, especially for puppies who are easily distracted. You work hard to provide the best you can for your dog, but they just gobble and wolf down their food without a care in the world. Why not give them a slow-feeder bowl to regulate their eating and make meals last longer. With its swirled pattern your dog places their tongue along the groove tracks to move their kibble along — until they reach a side where they can push their food into their mouths. Play hide and seek with them German Shepherd puppies love to play Hide and Seek with their owners. Appealing to their prey drive, finding the toy also gives your dog a sense of confidence as they accomplish their tracking goal. Good hiding spots include behind open doors, in corners, under couches, and beneath tables. Walk around with them searching for the toy. When they find it, congratulate them with praise and play a quick game with them and the toy Some ideas are a ball for fetch, a tug toy for tug-of-war, or any other toy and game they love. As your dog begins to consistently find the toy, move the toy to different locations to keep the game fun and fresh. If weather permits and you have a secure yard, why not try this game outdoors in a larger area to keep your dog from getting too bored with the indoor game. Provide a long-lasting chew Short of time? Offer your dog a long-lasting chew for entertainment. It takes only seconds to offer your dog a long-lasting chew for them to enjoy. Look for chews that take a while to eat so they last. Not sure what else your German Shepherd will enjoy chewing? Then use this guide to find the best chew toys for bored German Shepherds Always supervise your dog with any toy or chew to avoid any accidents, as well as considering their weight and dietary needs. Your smart dog needs to stay busy and loves to learn new tricks. Think of them as simply an extension of their obedience training. And many tricks have other practical purposes. More importantly, training your dog to perform tricks: Engages their minds Teaches them a new skill Helps prevent training burnout for both of you Can get them to learn to focus and concentrate Is fun and a great bonding activity There are so many tricks that you could teach your German Shepherd to help keep them from becoming bored. Have you taught them to: Shake. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Due to the hectic lifestyles that many of us lead today, German Shepherds might spend many hours alone at home every day. Here are some of my favorite ideas. Give them the King of toys — the Kong. Kong toys not only help calm your dog but, when frozen, can keep your German Shepherd busy for a long time. Kongs are great for hiding treats or serving their daily meal and keeping them busy. Stuff the Kong with natural peanut butter, their favorite dog-safe foods, special treats, or even fill with a mixture of all. Most German Shepherds will stay happily busy working for their food. And, a properly stuffed and frozen Kong could take a lot of time for your dog to release all their tasty reward. Is it summertime and you need to help them beat the heat? Kong to the rescue for busy-time and summer fun! Not only can the Kong toy itself be filled and frozen, but for an extra treat fill a freezer-safe plastic container with low-sodium broth and water and drop your food-filled Kong inside the mixture. Leave it to freeze overnight. Then, take the toy and your dog to a safe spot where they can enjoy licking and chewing their giant-size pupsicle! Do you have a teething German Shepherd puppy to keep busy? Place their soaked kibble in the Kong and freeze for them to soothe their inflamed gums and aching jaws while they chew and squeeze away the pain. Want to know the right size Kong for your dog and how to use the toy to help solve and prevent behavior problems? Then read all about Kong toys for German Shepherds. Show them interesting sights and sounds. Some Shepherds enjoy watching the sights and sounds of the world going by. Others will bark at leaves falling. Here are a few stations that dogs generally enjoy: Animal Planet Discovery Channel National Geographic There are even YouTube channels that cater especially to dogs at home that need some visual and auditory stimulation. While watching these videos your German Shepherd can see squirrels, cats, birds, other dogs, and nature scenes — all while hearing the sounds of the animals along with calming music. If you know your dog gets upset hearing other dogs or animals, then look for calming music channels that play soothing sounds and tunes to comfort anxious dogs. Provide a search and sniff scavenger hunt. Did you know that sniffing helps to calm dogs and provides needed mental stimulation to keep their minds occupied source? Encourage your dog to hunt for her meals by hiding small piles of her kibble around your house in safe, easy-to-reach areas so she has to use her nose to find them. Scatter a couple of handfuls of kibble in the places where your dog hangs out during the day before you leave for the day or when you want to keep her entertained. You determine how easy or difficult you want the game to be depending on where you decide to hide the treats. At first, you might need to leave the food in more open areas as your dog learns to play and sniff for their treasure. Easy Scavenger Hunt larger groups of kibble placed in the open smaller groups of food placed under safe items groups of treats together next to items, but not hidden a kibble trail that leads your dog on a sniffari indoors You can make the Scavenger Hunt more difficult as your dog learns the game. You can also hide one of her meals in her Kong puzzle toy right before you leave home. This prompts her to associate you leaving for the day with a positive — as opposed to a negative — emotion and can help lessen the fear of being alone for her. Play a classic game of tug-of-war. Tug can help build confidence in German Shepherds when played correctly. All you need for this old-school game is a tough rope toy and some space to move around safely. To entice your German Shepherd to grab the rope, wiggle it like a snake, let her take hold of it, and gently begin tugging the rope. While your dog sinks their teeth and puts her bodyweight into the pull you get a bit of an upper-body and cardio workout. Plus, did you know that cotton tug ropes provide your German Shepherd the opportunity to easily help clean their teeth? In fact, research shows that playing tug with your dog is much more complex. In one study dogs handicapped themselves i. Tug, when played correctly and with rules, can build confidence in German Shepherds and help teach them more about your owner-dow relationship. Teach your dog a new trick. When was the last time you taught your German Shepherd a fun trick? I bet your brilliant German Shepherd would love to keep entertained by learning a new trick or obedience command. You can pick a hard trick that takes a while to learn or an easy trick that your dog might quickly pick up on. Or aim higher by working on naming all of her toys in her toy box so she can get them by name when you ask. Either way… Your German Shepherd is capable of learning almost anything that you take the time and patience to train. Remember, your German Shepherd is so smart for a reason. Whether you have a German Shepherd puppy or a full-grown dog, this is super fun to try! Even better… 6. Include plenty of play with their friends. Having doggie friends is essential for German Shepherds, especially puppies. Sometimes your German Shepherd just needs to play with other dogs and socialize. You can schedule playdates with other well-behaved dogs with your friends and family for some puppy entertainment. Many doggy daycares will provide discounts if you purchase multiple play days to keep the price reasonable and provide your German Shepherd with more opportunities for entertainment. There are separate play sections for puppies and larger, adult dogs, so your dog is matched to their appropriate playgroup. Never underestimate the value of a healthy play session to keep your German Shepherd entertained. Sneak in a new toy. Sneaking in a new toy for your German Shepherd can keep them entertained as they enjoy the surprise. Do you have a dog that loves to play with toys? Then help keep them busy by sneaking in a new toy to spark their interest and keep their self-directed play fun. Just think of how excited your German Shepherd will get when they sniff out their new toy! Also, rotate her toys every week or so to heighten the excitement of playing with her toys. Simply put away a few of the usual toys and sneak in another to replace the missing old toys. Then, rotate them again for a fresh perspective! Teach them how to stay calm. Even busy German Shepherds need to calm down to recharge and relax. Teaching a German Shepherd how to calm themselves and channel their energy into resting and relaxing is actually difficult. If your German Shepherd becomes nervous, anxious, or overactive when you leave home, try these ideas to help comfort them, especially puppies. Give a treat designed to encourage rest and relaxation, like these calming chicken and hemp chews. Use a dog pheromone diffuser. Use a dog-appeasing pheromone diffuser if you think your absence causes anxiety in your German Shepherd. Adaptil makes a calming dog diffuser for this specific purpose that is shown to lessen anxiety symptoms and promote calm. The pheromone released by the diffuser is similar to the one that lactating mother dogs emit to calm their newborn puppies when feeding. So, the pheromone is familiar to your German Shepherd and creates a sense of relaxation and calm. Place the diffuser in a room your dog generally uses or spends most of her time in. These calming tools are especially helpful to German Shepherd puppies who might be overwhelmed in their new home and miss their littermates and mother. Include a mid-day walk. Dog walking services are provided in many cities and towns to help you. The typical dog walking schedule for many working owners is in the morning and evening. But the German Shepherd Dog is a high-energy breed and will benefit from a mid-day walk to add some entertainment to their day. Many reputable pet care facilities include a dog walking service and will walk your German Shepherd with other dogs that are similar in personality if you like. I highly recommend that you also get a GPS tracker for your German Shepherd if you have a dog walker. Give remote surprise check-ins. Checking in on your mischievous German Shepherd puppy has never been easier with remote cameras. With all the modern pet technology today you might be overlooking how to keep a German Shepherd busy remotely. Remote cameras are a great way to keep your German Shepherd occupied and surprised. How amazing is that for modern pet technology? Each puzzle takes a combination of reasoning, persistence, and paw dexterity to work out. The very act of leaving a German Shepherd alone for 8 hours or more a day and then being too tired to spend time with them in productive ways is the reason for most of the behavioral problems they develop. How would you feel if you were left at home all day, every day, with no one to talk to, no television to watch, no books to enjoy, no work to do, and no opportunity to exercise? It would be awful! Read this post on how to exhaust a German Shepherd to reduce boredom to learn more about what you can do to help keep boredom at bay. Playing with your German Shepherd enriches your relationship with her on a unique level. Together, the two of you will have a distinctive interaction during your play sessions. This is vital information because play helps build a strong relationship foundation. While some people believe that German Shepherds are rough, tough, working breeds they genuinely have a playful nature and seek out the companionship of play with their special person. German Shepherds seek out play with those they feel close to and are comfortable with. Although there are many different ideas to entertain your dog, every dog is unique and has certain preferences. They tend to develop behavior issues when secluded from their family and can become depressed, act out for attention, and develop other health conditions due to the stress of spending too much time alone. When you understand how to keep a German Shepherd busy and entertained both of your days will go by more smoothly. Remember… The time you put into your German Shepherd creates an unbreakable bond. Catherine Krasavin, BS Hons. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Being energetic and intelligent animals, this breed does need to be entertained while you are away. Here is your guide to managing this. This breed bonds to its humans easily and can feel lonely when they are away. Some German Shepherds even develop separation anxiety. In case you have no choice but to be away from your dog for long, you may want to think about leaving them with a friend or relative. This will allow your German Shepherd to be a healthier and happier dog. German Shepherds are prone to boredom, which is why you should try to keep things interesting for them. To do this, alternate between the toys you leave out for them. Lock the rest up. The next day, switch these toys out for other ones and continue this for the workweek. It will keep things interesting for them without you constantly having to buy new toys. You may do more harm than good if you try to take it away. Should You Leave the Curtains Open? There is plenty of stimulation outside your home from neighbors and other dogs to the occasional squirrel. Leaving your curtains open is a great way to make sure that your German Shepherd keeps itself entertained. You can ensure that all the curtains are open in the house so that your dog can bound from one window to the next and keep the view interesting. Some dogs love being able to stare out of a window, while it can prove to be too much stimulation for others. How to Hide Treats Around the House? Your dog can then walk throughout the space and discover a little bite of goodness. This is a great mental exercise for them. You may want to avoid hiding the treats under couch cushions or anything else that your pup will need to upturn to get to. If you come home to find that the treats are untouched, your pup may need a little help. Hide the treats when you are around and urge them to find them. Once they get the hang of this game, they will be able to do it on their own. There are now more interactive toys to choose from than ever before. Some of them involve treats while others rely on squeakers or other features. You may want to try out a few ahead of time to find out what your dog responds best to. When it comes to puzzle toys, start with the easy ones and slowly use increasingly difficult ones as they get the hang of it. A toy that is too complex may cause them to become frustrated and give up. It can be a great way for your dog to occupy themselves. If your TV can be set on a timer, do this. You can make sure that the TV will only be on for a short time. In case your pup has a favorite show, you can program the TV to turn on at this point. This is another activity you should test out while you are at home. Find out how your dog reacts to having the TV on. Does it interest them, do they ignore it, or are they upset by it? Can an Interactive Camera Help? There are pet cameras that allow you to see and talk to your German Shepherd at various times throughout the day. Some even allow you to deposit treats. Give this camera a whirl when you are first gone for a short time. This will give you a better idea of how your pup may react. While some dogs love being able to hear their owners, others can become confused or frustrated by this. A test run will show you which way your pup leans. German Shepherds are a high-energy breed and the more exercise they get, the happier they are. This is a great option to consider if it is affordable. As many dog walkers will often walk several dogs at once, it is a great way for your dog to interact with other animals as well. An alternative to hiring a dog walker is to plan pet playdates. If there are other dogs that your German Shepherd likes and gets along with, take turns with the owners to host pet playdates. This gives your dog the chance to hang out with humans and dogs. It can also break up the monotony until you get home. Use these tactics when necessary and you can have peace of mind knowing that your pup is taken care of while you are away. 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. Puppies German Shepherd puppies are incredibly playful. So how do you play with a German Shepherd puppy? This article will examine the best way to play and entertain your German Shepherd puppy, providing example games to play and activities to do. The best way to play with a German Shepherd puppy is through short bursts of low-impact physical activity. This will keep their growing bones and joints safe from injury and malformation. Additionally, play games that sharpen their motors skills and hone their natural abilities. All dogs have a maximum tolerance for exercise, and playtime counts towards that limit. Most will play for as long as you allow them. Thus, you need to pay attention and keep them from overexertion, especially during activities that involve plenty of physical movement. In general, young dogs should have two sessions of exercise per day where each session is about 5 minutes per month of age. So, a German Shepherd puppy of around 2 months old should only get 10 minutes of playtime twice a day while a 6-month-old pup can tolerate two minute sessions. By the time your GSD is a year old, they should be able to tolerate hour-long sessions of play or exercise. Keep in mind, however, that these are general guidelines. You need to keep an eye on your dog and determine their own tolerance to avoid serious consequences like overheating and overexertion. Like children, individual dogs have different preferences. Use play as a means to strengthen their motor skills, nurture their sense of curiosity, and build their confidence. The best toys for young German Shepherds are interactive ones that stimulate their senses. Especially exciting are treat dispensers and squeaky toys while teething toys provide tons of comfort. They also love balls that they can grasp and chase after. They also love playing with people and other animals. Doing this often will help prove each of these commands and ensure they will obey no matter the situation. Have fun with the Obedience Shuffle by randomly asking for each command and rewarding your dog every time they obey. Make it increasingly difficult for them by adding distractions in between. Hide-and-Seek Hide-and-Seek is an excellent game to play with your German Shepherd puppy because it requires some concentration, sniffing, and running. It also primes them to think of you as the best reward. To play this, ask your dog to stay while you hide. Release them from their stay position and respond with excitement and praises when they find you. Hide in easy-to-find spots at first and find more difficult hiding places as your pup picks up on the object of the game. You can start by keeping your pup in a down position as they watch you hide the treats. When they understand the point of the game, you can make it more challenging by keeping them in another room and letting them in only when all the treats are hidden. It also requires very little space and involves more concentration and nose work. To play the shell game, take 3 cups and some treats, and sit across from your dog. Place the cups upside down on the floor and keep a treat under only one. Shuffle the cups before arranging them in a row. Turn over the first one your pup touches. If they get the right one, let them have the treat. If not, re-shuffle the cups and play again. Find-and-Retrieve Find-and-Retrieve is not just a game of obedience and concentration. This game involves teaching your dog the proper names of things, finding those things on command, and handing them over to you. To play this game, start by teaching your dog the name of one toy. Then, make the game more difficult by asking them to retrieve the ball from other places. Here are other things you can do to interact with your puppy, strengthen your bond, and help them to develop physically, mentally, and emotionally: Walking Walking can be a good way for your GSD pup to learn more about the world outside of your home. Allow young pups to walk at their own pace and try not to be too harsh on the lead. Let them stop to sniff and interact with whatever they might find interesting. This will form a huge part of their socialization. German Shepherds typically like water if they are exposed to it and learn how fun it can be. Swimming is also an excellent way to have fun with your growing dog since it is easy on the bones and joints. Being in water will also help strengthen muscles for even better skeletal development. Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys for dogs are not only excellent for mental stimulation but also for independent play. Depending on the toy, it could also help prime your German Shepherd for nose work, combat boredom, and control their impulses. They can compete in these companion sports as early as 6 months old or you can simply join local clubs to engage in these activities for fun. This helps avoid issues like hip and elbow dysplasia in the future. Until your German Shepherd has developed into adulthood, you should generally avoid activities that involve plenty of jumping. Staircases and other steep angles are safe enough for regular use but not as a means to exercise. Additionally, when running or walking, opt for turf and soil rather than concrete. Final Thoughts Discovering the best ways to play with your German Shepherd puppy will help you develop a strong bond and learn to communicate with one another. These games will also help stimulate their intellect and develop a love for learning. Learning how to discipline your GSD puppy correctly will teach them to respect your leadership and stay on their best behavior. Moreover, you need to take time out to exercise your dog daily. Many GSDs get anxious when left alone, making it difficult, but not impossible, to work full-time while being the owner of a German Shepherd. But, in a nutshell, you should not leave your adult dog alone for longer than 4 hours, and considerably less for young pups. If you leave a dog alone for longer than four hours, you risk them engaging in destructive behavior due to boredom or separation anxiety. Nonetheless, the following contexts make it easier to work full-time while owning a German Shepherd: You have family nearby — If you have family or close friends nearby who can keep your dog company, he might not even notice that you are gone. You can leave your pet at a daycare — Doggy daycares can be expensive but are among the best solutions for full-time working professionals. You can take your dog to work — Very few professions allow bringing pets to work. You might not get any work done, though, unless you work in the Police K9 unit! You can go to work at a regular 9 to 5 if you have a German Shepherd as long as you know how to keep your dog busy in your absence. You should keep your German Shepherd busy with toys, treats, distractions, or other humans while you are at work. He is still delighted to see you, but not because he spends the entire day feeling abandoned. Here are a few ways to keep your German Shepherd engaged in your absence. Calm content or even an animated series can keep your dog distracted. I think she can relate to her breeding purpose! Otherwise, it might get knocked over if your dog feels threatened by the content, especially if he has a high prey drive and a program about squirrels comes on! In any case, this would be all part of socializing your pup. A puzzle toy can be a lot more engaging than idle observation. While most dog puzzles can have this effect, I like Outward Hound a lot because it is specifically designed for big dogs with separation anxiety and keeps your dog engaged. It is a pretty fun toy for your dog, regardless of whether you are around or not, and with almost , positive reviews, many other dog owners think so too. This could mean replaying TV shows you think will be safe and fun for your dog or actually recording yourself waving at your dog and giving him commands. I know it can seem weird, but it works wonders. Dogs have been proven to react positively upon seeing their owners on screen. I love this gadget as it has everything from being able to hear and speak with your doggo to tossing him a treat every now and again. A window can keep your dog pleasantly distracted in your absence. You just need to arrange a safe way for your dog to peer through the window. If you own an expensive breed — While GSDs are usually deterrents that stop intruders and prevent break-ins, if they are expensive enough, they might encourage people to get into your house. If your dog might be perceived to be in danger — If your GSD looks helpless and desperate, people might assume that he needs to be saved. Usually, people break car windows to rescue overheating pets. But someone might break your house window out of similar good intentions, even without significant danger. Drop him off at a doggy daycare. This is by far the best option but is not very accessible for some. The first barrier to entry is the cost of enrolling your dog. The second is the availability of doggy daycares and daycare spots. Families that own and love dogs can happily take yours in for the day. Such toys are easy to load, and you can teach your dog to fetch and load a ball. My article on training a GSD covers using positive stimuli to get your dog to learn commands faster. The treats better not be too sugary, though. The calories can add up. I recommend using pieces of kibble for this game. That said, your dog might not be very keen on a kibble hunt — unless he is hungry, of course! Put a food item your dog loves inside a bowl, fill it with water, and put it in the freezer. Once the ice forms around the food item, you can leave it for your dog while you are away. It will give your dog plenty of time to play and salivate. However, there is one drawback: the ice turns into water. Professional dog walkers charge about the same as entry-level professionals in the region. Still, the cost can add up if you get dog-sitting services. Every hour you make money at your job, you have to pay someone to take care of your dog. Adopt Another Dog Finally, you can try the good old, have a kid to raise a kid method. By adopting another dog, you can make your current dog less lonely. The cost of this depends on the dog food prices and the medical expenses in your area. It is a high-risk tactic as it is possible that your dogs hate each other, and you end up needing extra supervision. Make sure to learn how to introduce your dog to another pet and choose a pet of the opposite sex to reduce same-gender aggression. But if you have no option but to leave your dog alone while you go to work, at least make sure he has regular company throughout the day. GSDs must be trained to entertain themselves, so you must start this process early. Related Posts You May Like:. As a human, you can leave the house and seek exciting new adventures all on your own when boredom rears its ugly head. However, your dog is probably stuck at home when you have to leave for work or school. While it might be fine to take a nap or two each day while he waits for you to come back, there are still many hours left in the day where a bored GSD can get himself into some mischief. Sometimes that mischief can result in expensive damage to your home and belongings! He needs to feel useful, helpful, and appreciated. German Shepherds are also one of the most intelligent and most social dog breeds you can own. With a little forethought and some simple additions to your household or routine, you can keep your pup or older dog happy, healthy, and out of trouble until you get home. As social animals, dogs can be prone to separation anxiety. What does that mean? Separation anxiety is fairly common in German Shepherds. When a German Shepherd, or any other dog, suffers separation anxiety, they become sad, scared, or otherwise upset about the absence of their human companions. This can result in behavior problems such as barking, howling, and crying for hours, which can be disturbing to neighbors. Separation anxiety can also cause a dog to begin tearing up and chewing your belongings—shoes, clothes, and even your furniture, for example. It can also be so stressful for a GSD that he begins to have accidents in the house. The pups get used to this royal treatment and showers of love and affection. The sad truth is that some never do. They may see the separation as punishment, or they may become overly worried about you. After all, the German Shepherd takes great pride and enjoyment in being your companion and protector. Keeping your German Shepherd active and busy can help relieve a lot of anxiety all on its own. But they are also great ways to help anxious dogs feel safer and more in control while you are away. And that is exactly what GSDs love most: working! Some involve a little extra effort on your part and some may require new toys or special equipment. Not every suggestion will work for every dog or household, so be ready to try different approaches to find the perfect mix for your German Shepherd. There are many ways to do this, but here are some suggestions to get you started. Crate train your GSD early. Crate training helps dogs learn that the crate is their safe space. Do not use the crate for punishment. Always make crate time fun with toys, treats, soft bedding, and praise. As den animals, GSDs appreciate having a private, safe space such as a crate to help relax and reduce stress. Section off a part of your house for alone time. Your GSD should be taught that certain areas of your home are safe. This is a lot like the crate suggestion above, but it allows for more space to play and stretch out. This can be a bathroom, laundry room, or bedroom, for example. Start by using a baby gate, not shutting the door. Start slowly, leaving your GSD alone in a crate or safe zone for just a few minutes. Leave a treat or new toy with her, some food, water, and soft bedding, then walk away for 3 — 5 minutes. Do this several times in a row, piling on the praise and love when you return. After a few days, extend the time you leave your GSD alone, but always come back and give tons of love. When you leave toys, food, water, and soft bedding with your German Shepherd in his safe area, you are teaching him which objects are his, too. This can be a long walk or job, a rousing game of fetch, or a few rounds on an agility course. Whatever it is that your German Shepherd likes to do for fun with you, do that before you need to leave for work or school. Begin this routine well before you have to start leaving your GSD alone every day. Since dogs are pack animals, they can sense your stress level and your anxiety. Try to remain calm. Instead of being dramatic about it, just give your dog a normal amount of affection, put him in his safe zone or crate, and then leave. Do not look back, do not open the door to check on him; just go. The calmer you are during departure, the less likely it will be that your dog will become anxious. If you followed some of the suggestions above, you should be well on your way to achieving dog parent nirvana. It can be as simple as a box of toys in the closet that gets switched out every week or month. Simply pick up the old toys and put them in a box, then bring the new box down. In another month, you can do the switch again. Keep it interesting by adding a brand-new toy every week or so, just to keep Spot on his toes. If your German Shepherd is attached to one or two specific toys, keep them out of the rotation. Those are the perfect comfort objects and should always be available and within reach. Some common favorite toys include rope toys, stuffed animals, and refillable treat toys. Just keep an eye on your dog and see which toys she gravitates to during sleepy, relaxed times. Time for Television If your dog is used to hearing the television going or a computer running videos all day and night, this is likely a comforting sound to her. Some dogs like exciting shows with lots of noise, while others prefer relaxing shows with calm human voices or sounds of nature. Believe it or not, some dogs actually enjoy watching television, not just listening. If they still seem to enjoy the background noise, try the radio instead. You can either turn on regular radio stations, use online stations with specially created playlists, or you can queue up your own playlist on your computer or other device using songs your dog is used to hearing you listen to. The options are limitless, and the familiarity will help soothe an upset or lonely dog. Take a look at this article I wrote about German Shepherd depression — it expands on the benefits of playing music for your German Shepherd, and how different types of music affect your dog. Hide Surprises Many German Shepherds love hide and seek games with their humans. Too difficult of a puzzle and your GSD could get frustrated and unhappy. Interactive Toys There are a ton of great interactive toys on the market these days. The hardest part is letting your dog have a turn with them! These kinds of toys keep intelligent GSDs alert and happy. For example, you can use interactive puzzle toys like this series from Outward Hound. There are 4 different toys in this series, and 4 levels of difficulty — easy, intermediate, advanced, and expert. Take a look for yourself what all the fuss is about! Level 1: Easy. How to keep your German Shepherd entertained Walk it Before you even consider how to keep your German Shepherd entertained you should make sure that it is getting a sufficient amount of exercise. Vets will often recommend that you give your German Shepherd at least one hour of exercise per day. So, your primary focus should be to make sure that it gets it. One good way to give your German Shepherd exercise is to simply walk it daily. Play fetch Another way to give your German Shepherd exercise and attention is to teach it to play fetch. Fetch is good because it gets your German Shepherd to do a lot of sprinting without much rest which will help to wear it out quickly. It will also get it used to interacting with you in a positive way and it will help to make it more responsive to your command. It can be quite difficult at first to teach your German Shepherd to play fetch but I go through it step by step in the link above. Teach it to swim You can also give your German Shepherd exercise and keep it entertained by teaching it to swim. Swimming is good because your German Shepherd will have to move its legs around a lot to stay afloat. This will result in it having to expend a lot of energy over a short time period. Some German Shepher ds can be nervous to go into the water by nature. But, there are ways to get it to like swimming that I talk about here. Give it toys A good way to keep your German Shepherd entertained is to give it lots of toys to play with. By doing this you will be able to keep it occupied with something that you want it to be occupied with. Give it lots of training Giving your German Shepherd lots of exercise is a great way to keep your German Shepherd entertained. In the act of training your German Shepherd, it will need to focus on you which will help to drain its energy a little bit. It will also make it more responsive to your command and help you to keep your German Shepherd under control. When you start training your German Shepherd you should start by teaching it the basics such as to sit and stay in an environment where there are not many distractions. Once you can get it to do it in an easy environment get it to do it in a tougher environment where there are more distractions. Then, once you have taught it the basics, you can advance on to harder tasks such as to teach it to come to you on command. Give it puzzles You could also give your German Shepherd puzzles to play with that will help to keep it occupied. There are a number of puzzle games that you can buy that are designed to make your German Shepherd think and put its attention into it in order to get the reward. Play tug of war with it Another way to entertain your German Shepherd would be to play tug of war with it. There are apps that you can download now that let you book a local dog walker directly on the app. Walk it with other dogs Another good way to give your German Shepherd exercise and to entertain it would be to walk it with other dogs. By walking it with other dogs you will be able to give it more exercise since it will be doing more by playing with the other dogs and you will be able to give it the chance to interact with other dogs which can make it better behaved. Give it chew toys You could also keep it entertained by giving it chew toys to focus on. There are even some that are designed to calm them down that you could give to it to prevent hyperactivity when you think that it might start misbehaving. Have it pull you You could also give it exercise by getting it to pull you along on a skateboard or bike. Things to consider German Shepherds can require a lot of effort German Shepherds are a breed that w as bred to work with humans on a daily basis. With that being the case, it means that they will require a lot of effort. If you are unsure that you will be able to spend lots of time working with your German Shepherd then consider a different breed. If it is young then it will require a lot of attention but you will be limited in how much exercise you can give it. Give it attention daily German Shepherds are a breed that requires a lot of exercise and attention. Related Am I spending enough time with my German Shepherd? German Shepherds are a breed that require s a lot of exercise and attention to be properly stimulated. If you want a happy and obedient German Shepherd, this is one of the best online dog training programs available right now. You can get the first month free using This link.

About Us Health Guarantee Modern breeding practices, such as DNA panels, allow us to guarantee that no puppy will be born with hereditary disorders or hereditary illnesses. All puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee against these illnesses. All our dogs are thoroughly health tested by the age of one for at least hereditary defects and diseases, as well as congenital defects such as hip dysplasia, and cardiac health. We are located in Pine Bush, NY. We are a family run operation. My husband Michael, my mother Julie, and myself give all we can give to our dogs and the raising of these puppies. Julie is an especially huge part of my life, and my dogs lives today. She started breeding Dobermans in .In the late 90's when I was a child we were gifted two Silky Terriers by my father, after the loss of my first dog, Shadow - a field spaniel. Like we are today, we have always been at-home breeders. It was a wonderful experience. With the guidance of our vet, we helped whelp birth , and socialize all of their puppies, and placed them into happy homes - many of whom were our neighbors, family and friends. Sparky, the last of our silky's from our first litter, passed away in at the ripe old age of 19!! We are so thankful for their long lives and good health, which we credit to their diet of mostly steamed or roasted chicken, good breeding practices, and happy home life. We researched many breeds, but kept coming back to the Mini Goldendoodle. That's when we found our Lola, and fell in love with Goldendoodles. They are smart, loving, low to non-shedding, playful and very good with children. Today, my mother and I combine our years of experience of raising and training dogs in our Goldendoodle program. We have a unique understanding of developing healthy packs thanks to our years of breeding the Silkys. If you are considering getting a second dog, we can help you select the right fit for not only you, but for your current pooch. Pack dymanics should always be taken into consideration. Lola is an F1B petite Goldendoodle - to be technical. You can read about our mom's and dad's under the "Parents" tab at the top of this page. Use the link below to view our upcoming litters page. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Long Island New York and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! We have answers. What makes Long Island Goldendoodle puppies for sale special? A Goldendoodle is a hybrid dog breed that is obtained by crossing a Golden Retriever with a Poodle. This type of dog is suitable for people who are looking for a pet that is intelligent, friendly, and does not shed hair. In addition, Goldendoodles are also known to be good with children, making them an excellent choice for families. Are there any health guarantees? When you purchase a puppy from one of our listed Goldendoodle breeders near Long Island, you can rest assured knowing that they offer a year health guarantee. This was taken into strong consideration when we chose which breeders to partner with. There's nothing more important to us than the health and happiness of our furry friends. Are the Goldendoodle puppies for sale near Long Island I find here healthy? First, it is important to choose a reputable breeder who always screens their animals, which is what you will find in our network. This will help to ensure that your puppy does not have any pre-existing health conditions. Make sure to get a nose-to-tail health evaluation from a licensed veterinarian when your puppy arrives home. While there are no perfect foods for every dog, there are certain things to look for when choosing the right food for your furry friend. By talking to your vet and doing some research, you can find the best food for your pup that meets their changing needs from puppyhood to adulthood to their senior years. When you look for Goldendoodle puppies for sale? Long Island is a great place to find one. These dogs come in all sorts of different coat colors! You can find them in colors like black, chocolate, white, gray, and sable. They're one of the most diverse breeds of dogs thanks to their Poodle ancestry. There's truly a Goldendoodle out there for everyone. How hypoallergenic are Long Island Goldendoodles for sale? Well, a Goldendoodle may be the perfect solution! These amazing dogs are very allergy friendly thanks to their coats. They shed very little, making them much less likely to trigger allergies than other breeds. What is a multigenerational dog exactly? This term is used to describe dogs that are the result of breeding two different generations of the same Doodle breed. For example, a first generation Goldendoodle F1 is bred with a second generation Goldendoodle F2 , which would create a third generation Goldendoodle F3. Start searching here to find your new puppy today! Do you want a family dog that will love spending time with everyone in your household? Then you need a Goldendoodle! These dogs are bred specifically as companions and love being around humans of all ages. Whether you have young kids or are retired, a Goldendoodle is the perfect dog for you! But if you're worried about not having any breeders near you, don't be. If you find a puppy somewhere else, you can choose to have them travel with a chaperone or unchaperoned to the closest airport. Why should I steer clear of puppy mills? If you want to find the most adorable Goldendoodle for sale Long Island has to offer, stay away from puppy mills. These are commercial dog-breeding facilities that often mass-produce dogs with little regard for their health or wellbeing. Puppies from mills are often sick and may have genetic disorders due to inbreeding.

The protein will come from readily available sources such as chicken or beef, and not exotic or boutique sources like kangaroo or venison as you saw in second study mentioned above. According to the AKC , quality, regulated animal byproducts can be good for your dog. These byproducts can include organ meats or entrails, which often contain more nutrients than, say, plain chicken breast. Another misconception is that dogs should eat grain-free diets. As you saw in the second study mentioned above, that can actually be very harmful for your dog and cause DCM. But food labels can be a little vague and confusing, so below is an explanation of what some of these terms mean, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual and the AKC. There is one caveat though. For instance, flaked corn, ground corn, and kibbled corn could be sprinkled in an ingredient list and not be listed as the first few ingredients, but in reality, if you were to add them all up they are all corn, after all , you might find that this food is made mostly of corn. The same goes for chicken, chicken meal, and chicken byproduct. Meat vs. Meat Meal vs. The quality of these ingredients can vary widely, so be sure to talk to your vet about this and choose a reputable brand of food. Below are a few examples: Obesity. Golden Retrievers love food and they do have a tendency to become overweight if you let them. This problem can often affect these next two problems… Joint issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to joint issues and growing too fast because they eat too much can often make this problem worse more on this in the next section. Heart issues. Skin issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to hot spots and excess protein in their diets can be a factor that causes them. Many goldens suffer from food allergies. One cup of Brand X food may have calories per cup, while Brand Y has calories per cup. During a vet visit our veterinarian said he looked too small and lethargic for a puppy his age about 8 weeks at the time , and he recommended we feed him a little more. As far as how often to feed your puppy, this same rule applies. For us, we fed Oliver three times per day until he was a little over a year old. Getting a Golden Retriever Puppy? Get the gameplan for raising them right with the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Those two statements may sound random, but they are related. According to the Banfield Pet Hospital , overfeeding your Golden Retriever can cause them to grow too fast and increase their risk of hip dysplasia. You probably noticed that a raw diet was the fourth-most popular diet Golden Retriever owners feed their dog. Since puppies are growing and adults are just maintaining their weight, they have different dietary needs. And for fats, puppy food should have at least 8. As far as when to switch from puppy food to adult food, talk to your veterinarian. To see a list of other milestones your puppy will hit like when they lose their first teeth, or when their coat is fully grown check out this timeline of Golden Retriever puppy milestones. Like most of the other questions in this post, this is something to talk to your veterinarian about. Many foods will have the same vitamins that pills have already in them, but on the other hand, some breeders require that you give your puppy vitamins for their health guarantee to be valid. First, we unknowingly started him off on one of the brands listed in the graph above that is correlated with DCM. Then we switched to another brand that he just sort of liked. If we were to have another puppy, we would definitely start with the Royal Canin Golden Retriever Puppy food. How To Switch Food Brands The other day I was talking to someone who was complaining that her puppy was having lots of stomach issues. Dogs have sensitive stomachs so if you want to switch foods, you need to do it slowly. You should take about a week to transition from the old food to the new brand. Also consider how long the brand of food has been around, whether or not there have been any recalls of that brand, and if there is any research behind it. What do you feed your Golden Retriever puppy? Have any questions about what to feed them? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. Royal Canin makes dry food tailored explicitly to particular breeds. Its Golden food variation uses chicken and brown rice ingredients to support digestive health, strong bones, and a healthy coat. Gorgeous coats, healthy body conditions, great activity levels- perfect puppies! With a combination of healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables, and more, this dry dog food will encourage healthy muscle development in your Golden Retriever as well as strong teeth, a healthy heart, and improved skin and coat texture. Looking at the ingredients makes me feel that I have purchased a quality product for my guy. With ingredients like real protein, fruits, and vegetables, this dry food increases energy, strengthens bones, improves immune strength, and neutralizes free radicals. Her coat is healthier and shiny. She even trimmed down a little as her old dog food was making her fat. They produce high-quality dog food for your Golden Retriever at an affordable price. Veterinarians recommend IAMS Proactive Health because it uses ingredients like animal protein and antioxidant-rich veggies to nourish your dog and meet their complete health needs. Highly recommend it. Good for maintaining a decent weight too. Gobbles it down! With fish as the main protein, this kibble promotes a gorgeous coat and healthy skin and improves digestive issues. He eats it enthusiastically, and it has really helped him thrive! He is energetic, has a gorgeous coat, and devours his meals! She is a much happier dog. The Save Shredded Puppy Blend includes probiotics to help ease the digestion in growing Golden Retriever puppies with sensitive stomachs. I mix it with wet food, and he loves it. He loves the chunks of shredded chicken! I highly recommend it. This large-breed dry food can help your Golden Retriever maintain a healthy coat and great skin as well as smooth digestion. All of them love this food! Their coats are shiny and soft, and their poops are small! The exclusive formula also increases energy levels! We tried another brand, and it caused all kinds of allergic reactions. We went back to Eagle Pack, and all is right again. Great product! That may be because they have a senior Golden Retriever who is struggling with dental issues or feel that dehydrated food options are healthier. This particular food contains real protein and essential nutrients that can benefit dogs of all ages. Once we got this, she became a food-crazed puppy! This food includes a combination of freeze-dried raw-coated kibble with real pieces of freeze-dried raw meat! This variety has lots of meat sources plus several strains of probiotics. In general, your dog will benefit from puppy food from about 8 weeks of age until they are six months to a year old. Check with your vet to determine the right time to switch from a puppy food to one for adult dogs, as recommendations vary based on the size of your dog. A few days later, you can begin making it a half-and-half blend. Make sure to watch for loose stool from your pup as you transition — if you notice that your Golden is struggling with the new diet, wait for a few days before increasing the blend. When in doubt, check with your vet! Most dog foods come with specific volumes listed on the side. Overfeeding your pet can lead to a variety of health concerns. To determine what food will suit your dog the best, check out 17 of the top dog foods on the market for Golden Retrievers, no matter their age. Check with your vet to determine whether your Golden will need any special dietary considerations. Foods considered toxic to Golden Retrievers are macadamia nuts, chocolate, onions, garlic cloves, grapes, raisins, walnuts, alcohol, and any foods sweetened with xylitol. Try to avoid feeding your Golden food containing any of these ingredients. Grain is an essential component to the diet of Golden Retrievers. The absence of grain has been known to lead to a deficiency in taurine, which can potentially cause heart problems for your golden. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Feeding Your Golden Feeding Your Golden With the wide array of foods available today, it can be hard to make a good choice of what to feed your golden. Goldens are particularly sensitive to dietary concerns, and feeding them a high quality diet can help boost their health and immune system. Feeding a high quality food is not necessarily more expensive. Price is misleading: cheaper foods require more volume to be fed, up to several cups at each meal. With the wide array of better foods available today, you can make a smart choice of what to feed your golden. A golden will normally eat about two cups of premium food per day. It can be adjusted a little more or less based on activity level and metabolism. Goldens are prone to skin problems, and a poor quality diet will cause skin problems which translates into costly veterinarian bills. You will need to go to the pet store to purchase your food. Grocery store brands do not offer the nutrition goldens need for good health. Do not be persuaded by fancy advertising. Many commonly hyped foods are not high quality and maybe lacking the necessary nutritional value for your dog. For example, Grain Free foods may play a major part in taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers and other large breed dogs. This deficiency can cause serious heart problems for your dog see Taurine and Grain Free information on this web page. Here are some guidelines: Look for food free of chemical preservatives. Some of these additives are suspected of causing cancer. Look for food preserved with Tocopherols Vitamins C and E as well as rosemary and other herbs. Make sure you have several months before this date. Frequent stores where there is a good turnover of food so you get a fresh bag. Always store dog food in a tight airtight container in a cool, dry place. If you only have one dog, consider buying pound bags instead of pounds bags so the food is fresher. Look for a food that has some form of meat as the first ingredient — such as lamb, chicken, or turkey. Avoid foods that have grain as the first ingredient. Also look for multiple meat proteins in the first seven ingredients. Protein from multiple sources is generally viewed as being beneficial such as lamb, chicken and fish , unless your dog is allergic to certain proteins. Dog food companies sometimes list several types of grains in the first seven ingredients. Beware of this — your dog needs animal protein in his diet! These are the intestines of the animal including what is in the intestines!! Most by-products are not desirable. By-products normally contain beaks, feet, feathers, heads and other slaughterhouse wastes — not the most nutritious part of the animal. Avoid foods that have sugars or artificial colors or flavors or a lot of added salt. Semi-moist dog foods are the worst — they usually are loaded with artificial colors and sugars. Added vitamins and minerals are beneficial only when applied after the baking process, because heat destroys vitamins. The best foods are made up of ingredients that would be suitable for human consumption. Most dog foods contain meat products that are not fit for human consumption. They can include meat from diseased livestock, condemned material from slaughterhouses such as tumors cut away from meat , and as horrible as it sounds, some pet foods include euthanized pets sold to rendering plants and even road kill. Is it any wonder why so many dogs die from cancer when they are being fed meat from these sources? Grains — many dog foods will contain some grains, for example, brown rice, barley, corn, wheat, etc. We have found that some goldens in our rescue program generally do poorly on a food that contains corn or soy. Many goldens are allergic to corn or wheat. So if your golden starts getting a lot of hot spots or skin problems — check his food. There is a big difference in quality of grain products. Look for whole rice or brown rice in the ingredients; white rice and ground brewers rice are much lower in nutrients than whole or brown rice. Often pet food companies take the sweepings off the mill floor and put it in pet food. Look for whole grains instead such as oatmeal, brown rice, barley, or whole oats. Grain Free foods. Grain Free foods have become increasingly available as food companies try to offer foods that are easier to digest with lower levels of complex carbohydrates and grains. One misconception is that grain free dog food is also low-carb, however, vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, green peas and tapioca often replace the grains in grain-free dog foods, especially in kibble foods, making them as high or higher in carbohydrates than grain-based dog foods. Studies have shown peas, beans, pea starch, legumes, potatoes and sweet potatoes that have replaced the grains in dog foods block the function of taurine. Taurine, a sulfuric acid, is essential for healthy cardiovascular function in Golden Retrievers. If left untreated, taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers can cause dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , congestive heart failure and possibly death. Read all the ingredients in the food which should include taurine and check with your veterinarian before selecting or feeding any grain free food to your dog. Detailed information on dog food ingredients and taurine can be found on this web page under Taurine and Grain Free information and at: Diet Associated Heart Disease Treats — beware of many dog treats out there. They are filled with sugars, preservatives and artificial colors. Try buying biscuits at your local dog bakery or making some yourself. The dog food companies listed below have high quality treats available for your dog. Is your dog overweight? Beware of some diet dog foods, they can be loaded with fillers that provide no added nutrition. At least green beans are healthy. You can also use canned pumpkin. Typically goldens love it! DO NOT free feed your golden; instead feed a measured amount of food twice a day. Most adult goldens will eat 1 cup of premium dog food twice a day. Is your dog too fat? You should be able to feel its ribs and your dog should have a waist. We have found that we have a different view of what constitutes a fat dog than many veterinarians. They will typically allow dogs to carry more weight than is optimal. This perhaps is because they do not want to insult their clients and risk losing business. Letting your golden get too fat is like chopping years off of its life. We also see lots of hip problems with goldens, and keeping weight in check will give your dog better mobility. Fat goldens are an epidemic from our experience. We routinely get goldens into our rescue program that have to lose 30 — 40 pounds!!! Therefore we have a lot of experience at taking the weight off! It is very discouraging and upsetting when an adoptive home will let some weight creep back on. You may think you are loving your dog by giving it too much to eat, but if you really love it you will keep it at a normal weight. Remember — Ribs and Waists! Can you feel and see them on your dog? If not, break open the cans of green beans! The bottom line is read the ingredients, consult your veterinarian and research reliable resources. Making sure your dog has the best nutritional food will help to insure he has a long and healthy life. Here, from Whole Dog Journal, are some additional links for selecting best dry dog food and the best canned dog reviews. Goldens Rescued Since .They are growing quickly, so while they eat smaller quantities of food than adult dogs, they need to extract far more nutrients like protein, minerals, and vitamins, to sustain their growth and development. Different Dogs, Different Diets Nutritional needs vary from breed to breed. One only needs to look at golden retrievers to know they require a different diet than a Chihuahua! For example, joint and bone problems are much more common in big dogs than in little ones, but choosing the right puppy food can reduce the risk. Large-breed puppy food has reduced amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which helps control the rate of skeletal growth. Also, you may find puppy foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. By consuming too much food, your puppy will have elevated levels of the very nutrients that should be limited. Additionally, overweight puppies may develop other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Good eating habits developed during puppyhood will lead to a healthy mature dog in the years to come. Nutrition For The Outside One of the most visible components of your dog is its fur. Nutrition plays a vital role in this area. A large percentage of the protein your puppy takes in goes towards maintaining its coat. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for healthy skin and fur. Which Food Do I Choose? There will always be those who buy the cheapest brand on the market. Some will opt for the most expensive, while others will simply go with a brand name they recognize. The key is to find the right food for your particular puppy. One thing you cannot afford to ignore is the nutritional content. Because they are still growing, puppies need more protein than adults. Proteins foster muscle growth and development in puppies and lean muscle maintenance in adults, so the more of it there is in a diet, the better it is for your growing retriever. Fats, too, are important for golden puppies because they provide the energy required for everyday activities. You should be careful, however, not to feed your golden excess calories because this will result in excess weight or obesity. Eventually, your dog will end up battling joint problems. For instance, less expensive dog foods typically have lower-quality ingredients. The contents are often inexpensive, low-grade animal protein sources, like by-products and fillers. Fillers are frequently things like cornmeal, rice flour, or seed hulls. In general, thoroughly review the nutritional content of your chosen diet. Are the ingredients wholesome and natural? Does the diet have controlled calcium and phosphorous levels? Is the calorie and fat content limited to manage growth? Does the label state that the diet is complete and balanced? This can lead to obesity and will certainly cause increased defecation. The latter of these two issues will make house training more difficult than it already is. By contrast, costlier dog foods usually have higher-quality ingredients. The scales will be tipped heavily in favor of high-grade animal protein sources and fillers will be few and far between. Price is not, however, a guarantee of quality. The best dog foods for a golden retriever puppy are made with high-quality natural ingredients and have high levels of protein. Make sure the food is complete and balanced for daily feeding and formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. At this point, golden retriever puppies have likely already been switched to dry puppy food and you should continue feeding your pup the same type of food the breeder used. From the day you bring them home until they are six months old, you should feed your golden retriever puppy three times a day. Ideally, your pup should have breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. A grain-free diet is the default meal for golden retrievers that are sensitive to grains, but if your dog is healthy, feeding her such a meal boils down to choice. A lot has been said about grain-free diets. Reports and studies have been carried out in recent years trying to establish any connection between it and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM. That all starts with choosing the best puppy food for golden retrievers. Avoid low-cost foods that are more filler than substance, and look for better foods that are packed with nutrients to help your puppy grow. In particular, consider trying a large breed formula to meet the specific needs of your golden retriever puppy. Good nutrition is an essential part of any health regimen, and providing high-quality puppy food will lay the foundation for a long, and enjoyable life. You May Also Like. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months.