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From there we began showing dairy goats, angora goats, and pygmy goats in 4-H, FFA, and open shows from .When my son went off to college, we decided to sell off our dairy goat herd and focus on our Pug Breeding Program. Once we were able to focus on our Pug Breeding Program more we began to search for pugs of unique colors that we didn't already own. In I quit my job, and started breeding pugs full time. My new job title is a "Stay at Home Pug Mommy". Instead we retire them and they live out the remainder of their lives here at Tipping Point Farm, playing, eating, sleeping day after day, and spending time with our family. After all, Pugs are the ultimate companion and mans best friend. They will always be there for you no matter what, whether they are trying to cheer you up, steel your food, or give you kisses. With such a large demand for our pugs, I have now brought in my mom's dogs to be a part of my breeding program, so everyone is able to have their own Tipping Point Farm Pug. My Mom owns a farm thirty minutes away from me where she lives and raises her own pugs with help from me. On February 11th, , my first pug, "Cheese", the one who started it all passed away suddenly. The whole family was devastated after learning of her passing and spending so many years with such a great dog. I was heart broken, I lost my best friend. This one dog was the reason behind my whole pug breeding program. I loved this dog so much that I wanted to breed pugs so everyone could have "their own Cheese". After all, Pug love is like no other, you are their world and they become a family member. Even though Cheese is no longer here with us, I know that I am lucky enough to have got to spend so many years with her and have her daughters, grand daughters, and great grand daughters. When it comes to our pugs, Health is our 1 priority and then of course color! From day one, we are directly involved with our puppies, we help them come into the world and love them everyday till they go to there new family. Please feel free to call or email me anytime you have a question or are interested in a pug. Thank you for taking the time to read the Story behind our farm. We are looking forward to hearing from you and your family and to adding a new member to your family. I apologize for this and will be back to keeping up with my website for .As soon as we learned of the diagnosis, we made arrangements to meet with the surgeon. Unfortunately after the scans were taken, a spot was found on his liver which gave him a terminal diagnosis 2 months without chemo, 6 months with chemo. In March of he opted to start a chemo regiment every 3 weeks to hopefully extend his life expectancy. During the next few months him and I created a bucket list of things he wanted to do, which we were able to complete in between his visits to the hospital and chemo treatments. In August his cancer was reassessed to see if the chemo treatments had been working. The results were heartbreaking, the chemo hadn't worked and his body was full of cancer. Within a month of this heart breaking news my fathers health deteriorated, he was back and forth between hospice and the emergency room until he lost his battle to cancer on September 22, .My fathers loss has been extremely difficult, but I am now able to start focusing on my breeding program once again. As of right now we have big plans for .For more information about our plans, please contact me with any inquiries regarding current and future puppies or keep checking back for updates. We appreciate your patience and look forward to adding the newest fur-member to your family. The couple is passionate about their puppies and keeps their kennel in accordance with State of Ohio Department of Agriculture regulations. The kennel is climate controlled and the dogs are on a solid surface with hot water heat in the floor. The family breeds both Dachshunds and Pugs with a firm commitment to customer satisfaction. Creekside is committed to making sure all of their puppies are healthy and well socialized — ready for happy homes. They also offer a one-year genetic health guarantee for all of their pups. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get and your Pug will be good as gold in no time.

For dogs under the age of 7 years, visit your vet every year. The vet will check for signs of illness, keep them up to date on vaccines, and will treat your dog for parasites and worms. Dogs that are over the age of 7 years should visit the vet every 6 months. The vet will check for signs of illness, keep them up to date on vaccines, and will treat for parasites and worms. Responsible dog owners get their pets vaccinated regularly, wormed, and treated for parasites such as fleas. Vaccination is essential even if you carry your toy poodle everywhere, or he rarely goes outside. This is because some infections such as parvovirus are caused by particularly hardy viruses that can attach to your shoes. Therefore, they can still pose a risk to even the most pampered of poodles. Talk with your vet about implanting a microchip in your dog. A microchip will help you track the dog if he gets lost. One of the health problems that toy poodles are prone to in later life is diabetes mellitus sugar diabetes. The hormones associated with estrous heat in the female can trigger diabetes. Therefore, it is wise to get your female toy poodle spayed. Toy poodles often live into their teens. Each time a bitch has a season, it weakens the lining of her womb and makes her more likely to develop a pyometra, which is a potentially life-threatening womb infection. Thus, spaying whilst she is fit and strong removes the possibility of needing emergency surgery in later life when anesthesia can pose a higher risk. Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell. Neutering a male is mainly done to prevent unwanted breeding and to control behavioral issues such as aggression or dominance. Talk with your vet to learn more. Small but resilient, toy poodles often live well into double figures. They do however tend to suffer from health issues as they age. Diabetes, poor teeth and heart disease are most common. These issues, once identified, can often be managed in order to help your pet live a long and active life. If you see any of these symptoms, speak to your vet. Although she stands no more than 10 inches tall and weighs between 4—6 pounds, the Toy Poodle has a big, playful personality that can fill up a room. While frequently associated with France, Standard Poodles were first developed in Germany, where they were used in duck hunting. They have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Poodles of all sizes have curly coats with extensive grooming needs. Their coat grows continuously, calling for a trim every four to six weeks. However, there is no such thing as a completely "hypoallergenic" dog. People with allergies should spend time with the breed before officially bringing home a Toy Poodle puppy. But during this long life , they are predisposed to a few health issues that may require care. Pet parents may benefit from investing in pet insurance early in life. Progressive Retinal Atrophy Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is a group of diseases that cause a breakdown of the photoreceptor cells rods and cones on the retina. Initially, the dog may have difficulty seeing in the dark, but the condition can cause blindness over time. PRA is an inherited disease and there are currently no effective treatments available. Patellar Luxation The patella kneecap is a small bone that normally sits in a groove within the femur at the knee. In dogs with patellar luxation, the patella moves luxates outside of its assigned groove when the knee is flexed. This movement can cause discomfort and may eventually lead to arthritis. Many pets will skip or run on three legs when the patella is out of place. While some cases will correct themselves, in more severe cases the patella remains out of place. In mild cases, joint supplements such as fish oils and glucosamine or anti-inflammatory medications are used to control pain and prevent arthritis. In more severely affected dogs, surgery may be recommended. This causes pain and limping occur as the bone breaks down. In some cases, pain can be controlled with medications. In severe cases, surgery to remove the head of the femur may be recommended. Symptoms include visible debris, redness, odor, head shaking, and scratching. If any of these signs are noted, take your dog to the veterinarian for an exam. In most cases, ear infections can be resolved by cleaning the ear and with topical medications. Toy Poodles develop ear infections more often than most other breeds. This may be partly due to Poodles having long ear canals with excess curly hair to trap in moisture and debris. Trimming not plucking the hair from the ear may help reduce the incidence of ear infections. Dogs with chronic or recurring ear infections frequently have allergies that should be addressed. Dental Disease Dental disease is one of the most common conditions seen in dogs as they age, especially in small breeds like the Toy Poodle. Dental disease occurs when bacterial tartar and plaque build up, leading to inflammation of the tissues around the teeth—and eventually to tooth and bone decay. Daily tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste is the best way to prevent dental disease, though some diets, treats, and chew toys also help prevent plaque and tartar. Tracheal Collapse Tracheal collapse occurs when the trachea commonly called the windpipe flattens. This happens due to weak cartilage rings or the sagging of a membrane along the trachea. Most cases are treated using medications, but in severe cases where breathing is impeded, surgery may be necessary. Toy poodles are likely genetically predisposed to tracheal collapse. When on walks, use a harness instead of a collar, as pressure on the trachea can cause further damage. The condition causes a deficiency in a protein called the von Willebrand factor, which is necessary for platelets to stick together and form a clot. In dogs that are deficient in this protein, the blood may have difficulty clotting, which can lead to bleeding from the nose, vulva, bladder, or gums. Additionally, dogs with this condition may bleed for a long time after trauma or surgery. If there is concern about VWD, a screening test may be performed. This test measures how long it takes for a small cut in the mouth to stop bleeding. If the time is longer than usual, additional testing is needed to confirm VWD. Because some dogs with VWD do not have notably prolonged bleeding until later in adulthood, blood levels of von Willebrand factor can be measured to help with diagnosis. Most veterinarians recommend testing for VWD prior to any planned surgery, including spays, neuters, and dewclaw removals. Puppies should be fed a diet formulated specifically for puppies or designated for all life stages. For Toy Poodle adults, dental-focused diets may be recommended by your veterinarian to help prevent dental disease. Toy poodle puppies, however, should eat three to four small meals per day on a consistent schedule to help maintain their blood sugar. Additionally, the feeding guide labels on the dog food provides valuable information for pet parents. Just remember: In small breeds like the Toy Poodle, calories in treats add up quickly. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in skin and joint supplements , fish oil, and even in some specially formulated dog foods. These fatty acids act as natural anti-inflammatories that help support the skin, coat, kidneys, joints, and heart. They are playful and self-confident when socialized at a young age. While relatively calm, Toy Poodles enjoy playtime and exercise with the family. The breed is gentle with children and other pets, though all interactions between dogs and kids should be supervised. Because these pups are so tiny, they can accidentally be hurt during playtime. Toy Poodles have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Toy Poodle Behavior Toy Poodles bond closely to their families and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They can also be sensitive to stress, and sudden changes in the home environment may lead to gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, because Poodles are so smart, they need mental stimulation to keep themselves entertained—and out of trouble. Bored dogs are more likely to bark, jump, be destructive, or misbehave. Toy Poodle Training Toy poodles want to please their owners. Paired with their smarts, this makes them an easy breed to train. As always, training is most successful when based on positive reinforcement with praise and tasty treats. Fun Activities for Toy Poodle Obedience training. We will pause our breeding program until futher notice. Your puppy can remember which behaviors he is allowed and where and when he is fed. He can even begin house-training and start becoming used to being groomed. He is ready to leave his mother and littermates to go home with you, fully capable of taking his place in the family. The following list will help you know what to expect from your puppy has he develops. Most puppies will gain or grow rapidly between birth and 6 months of age. How much they grow or gain will depend on their breed, diet, and ultimate adult size. Growth is generally steady until they attain their adult size. You need to build trust with your puppy. Don't ignore crying but address the cause for the crying with attention and care. Touch is the first sense a dog develops and remains a powerfully important sense throughout his life. The entire body, including the paws, is covered with touch-sensitive nerve endings. Although they can see and hear, their sense of vision and hearing is quietly maturing. They are also developing their general sense of smell. This means you will need to take them out at least every 3 hours to get them "housebroken". A general rule of thumb for how long puppies can hold their bladders: one hour for every month of age, plus one. So if a puppy is two months old, he can wait up to three hours. Although capable of learning, they have a very short attention span. Keep a variety of simple toys for your puppy to investigate. He will also play rough and tumble with his littermates and will gradually begin learning to play by himself. It is extremely important that puppies socialize with people at this age. Include lots of people of varying ages, sizes and shapes to interact positively with your pup. Some puppies have a brief phase of "fear" at this time as they may respond to noises or new objects. Expose your puppy to new objects and allow them to investigate on their own terms until they are comfortable with the new situation. After all, most puppies just learned to walk at 3 weeks of age and run at 5 weeks of age, which was just a few short weeks ago. They are developing their gross motor skills that help them to run, play, and "hunt". Their fine motor skills will come later. Puppies also learn to jump up at this stage. This is a normal behavior that can turn into an undesirable behavior when the puppy reaches adult-hood and jumps on every visitor. You can begin correcting your puppy and giving him positive reinforcement for good behavior. Get your puppy used to the brush and comb by gently using them on him for very short sessions that are kept positive. Don't hold your puppy down to be brushed or combed if he does not want to be. Their muzzle is getting longer but overall they have the characteristics of a puppy. The ears may begin to stand up in some breeds. The rest is spent eating, playing and eliminating. A Poodle puppy, especially a miniature poodle puppy, has specific nutritional needs that should be taken into consideration when deciding how much to feed them. The amount of food that a poodle puppy needs is dependent on their age and size. Generally speaking, poodle puppies can eat wet food three times a day until they reach six months of age, after which they can switch to two meals per day. However, the exact amount of food should be tailored to your individual puppy and will depend on their activity level, growth rate and appetite. If you are unsure how much to feed your puppy it is recommended to consult with your veterinarian for advice. In order to ensure that your Poodle puppy gets all the nutrients they need it is best to provide them with high-quality wet food specifically designed for poodle puppies. When it comes to feeding your poodle puppy, you may be wondering if they should receive any kind of supplements in addition to their regular diet. The answer is yes, supplements can play an important role in the overall health and wellbeing of your poodle puppy. Feeding your poodle puppy these supplements will help them to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Supplements can provide essential vitamins and minerals that are not found in traditional dog foods. Additionally, they can provide essential fatty acids that are needed for growth and development. Additionally, some supplements can assist in the digestion process and help reduce the risk of certain diseases. When choosing what type of supplement to feed a poodle puppy, research the product carefully and make sure it meets the nutritional needs of your particular breed of dog. When it comes to feeding a toy poodle puppy, it is important to recognize that they have different needs than an adult poodle. Toy poodles are small dogs and require smaller portions of food compared to larger breed dogs. The amount of food you should feed a toy poodle puppy depends on several factors, such as its age and activity level. Generally, puppies need to be fed three times daily with the appropriate amount of dry dog food that is formulated for their specific age group. It is also important to make sure your toy poodle puppy has access to fresh water at all times. As your puppy grows older, you may need to adjust the amount of food you feed them accordingly. Additionally, if your puppy becomes overweight or underweight, consult with your veterinarian for advice on how much and what type of food would be best for them. When it comes to feeding a toy poodle puppy, the best practice is to feed them small meals per day. It is important to measure out the amount of food that you are feeding your toy poodle puppy. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health issues in your puppy. You should also make sure that you are providing your pup with high-quality nutrition that will help promote their overall health and well-being. Additionally, it is important to watch closely how much they are eating so as not to overfeed them. When it comes to feeding a toy poodle, the type of nutrition needed is going to depend on your individual pup. Generally speaking, the nutritional needs for a toy poodle are similar to those of any other small breed puppy. This puppy formula will provide not only the necessary vitamins and minerals needed for healthy growth and development, but also beneficial omega-3 fatty acids that can help keep their coat and skin in good condition. Toy poodles may also benefit from an age-appropriate diet or food designed specifically for their breed that accounts for their smaller size and higher metabolism. In addition, you should make sure to provide plenty of fresh water throughout the day to keep your pup hydrated. Male Dog Track your Toy Poodle's weight and compare it to other dogs! Discover the ideal weight for your Toy Poodle and track his progress! Register your dog or puppy now for free and become a part of our growing community of over 7. Typically, a Toy Poodle puppy weighs around 1,8 - 3,6 lbs at 2 months old and continues to gain an additional 2,20 lbs over the next 2 months. By approximately 18 weeks, when the puppy reaches the adolescent stage, a Toy Poodle puppy weighs about 3,3 - 5,6 lbs. What is the typical size of a Toy Poodle? The size of an Toy Poodle can vary depending on gender and genetics. Generally, male Toy Poodles reach a shoulder height of approximately 26 cm, while females have an average shoulder height of around 26 cm. When is the dog breed Toy Poodle fully grown? The dog breed Toy Poodle usually reaches full physical maturity at about 13 to 13 months of age. However, this may vary from individual to individual, as each dog has its own growth rate. What is the average weight of a fully grown Toy Poodle? The weight of a fully grown Toy Poodle dog can vary depending on factors such as gender and genetics. On average, male dogs of this breed typically weigh between 6. Female dogs, on the other hand, usually have a weight range of 4. What is the average lifespan of a Toy Poodle dog? Toy Poodles generally have a life expectancy of approximately 15 to 17 years. With proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention, they can lead happy and healthy lives. Our goal is to promote and support healthy growth of your dog. Raising Puppies at Three Weeks Old Sassy the English Mastiff At three weeks old, the pups are wormed with a mild wormer they were also wormed at two weeks. Giant breed dogs are up and walking at 3 weeks old and can be started on food. Medium breeds can start food at 3. Toy breed dogs on the other hand cannot have food yet as they can asperate. Toy breeds cannot start food before 4 weeks of age, 4. Soaked kibble is best for pups this age. In this particular case the pups were not being cared for by the dam and were given mush. It turned out to be a little too early, but it was worth a try considering the circumstances. Feeding mush is Not needed and NOT advised, unless you have a litter you need to wean early, because the mom is not tending to them. Or if the mom dried up early or you are fostering a litter, or the litter size is just to large for mom to comfortably tend to you can feed them mush, but otherwise it is not something that is recommended and is considered old school breeding. Feeding puppies blended up food before they are ready will equal this. Puppies covered in food. They walk in it and get it all over their faces and do a face plant in it. Last year I know of two puppies that died at 3. At 3 to 5 weeks, depending on your dog's breed size, take good quality puppy kibble and soak it 2 parts water and 1 part kibble. Some kibble needs more water than others. The kibble will hold it's shape and soak up the water. You want to use as much water as you can and have the kibble pieces swell up and go very soft. Give the food to the puppies in their eating area, not in their potty area or their play area. The puppies will be able to pick up a piece of soaked kibble and eat it. If they are not ready to do this they are not ready to eat solid food. A dam will often let you know it is time to start feeding the pups solid food when you see her regurgitate her kibble for them. It is a sure sign that soaked kibble is what you should be feeding them. Listen to the dam's instincts. I find if I try to wait until 5 weeks to add solid food to their diet, the dam will beat me to it the day or two before. This confirms that the timing was right on. It was a feeding frenzy.I obviously have to feed in shifts, maybe using two bowls. They dove in and swam; they were more interested in swimming around in the food, and then licking it off of each other. Tips greatly welcomed.At 3 weeks or when the pups start walking and about the time you make a small potty area outside the whelp box add a shallow bowl of water. Pups need to learn to lap water first from a bowl. See house training puppies with the Misty Method. In most breeds, if done correctly, this is at weeks. Then when you add food, pups sometimes get a little or large piece of poop on their rear ends stuck like glue that will NOT come off called will-knots or dingleberries. This can also lead to death, as we also see every year. You need to check each pups butt every 12 hours. A pup last year went to bed with a plugged butt and strained all night, and blew out the sidewall of his bowel. Don't let a puppy suck on your chin, not even for ten seconds. Tonight I added water with Pablum to the bottle. At three and a half weeks, feeding is much neater. This little pup is thoroughly enjoying his dinner, every last morsel! AND they are all peeing and pooping on their own, yippee! Puppy about to poop With solid food come solid poops. This is one of the first of many poops that will need to be cleaned up. Courtesy of MistyTrails Mastiffs. Teacup and tiny toy poodles are still toy poodles, only smaller. There is no separate classification for them. Height: A puppy will grow at least 8cm more from the 8 week stage until maturity. Meaning a puppy that is 13cm tall at 8 weeks will be at least 21cm at adulthood. If you want a small not so tall teacup, make sure the puppy you are thinking of buying is no taller than 13cm at 8 weeks. Puppies may or may not grow very much between 8 and 12 weeks, depending on if they are in the teacup range or not. This is why we choose to keep our puppies until they are 10 to 12 weeks of age so we can better judge an approximate adult size. Weight: Teacup poodle puppies are born very small, they usually weigh between 70g and g at birth. Most puppies in a litter are born about the same size, give or take a bit. They may even grow and gain weight at the same rate as each other. It is impossible to tell what the adult size of a 2 to 3 week puppy will be. Parental genetics are a good indicator but not an absolute. We cannot be sure what its adult size will be until the puppy is at least 6 weeks of age and even then it is a guesstimate. We will have a much more accurate estimation when the puppy reaches 12 weeks of age. Teacups and tiny toy poodles are usually finished growing in height by 6 to 8 months but will still fill out a little more. We do our very best to estimate the adult size of our puppies based on previous litters if applicable , sizes of parents and their ancestors as well as the toy poodle growth chart shown above. Genetics is very complicated and recessive genes can come into play. Like humans, female puppies tend to be a similar size to their mother, whereas male puppies tend to be the same size as their father or grandfather.

A post shared by Rebecca Schmidt happypug. This is because Emperor Qin Shi Huang destroyed any official records pertaining to the breed between and B. However, there are several records and paintings depicting Pugs as lapdogs sitting with Chinese Emperors as far back as the Chou Dynasty. Today, you can see Pugs on the laps of pet parents in all countries, or at least cuddled up beside their owners, sleeping soundly. However, there are no records of when the Chocolate Pug first appeared on the scene. The adorable, squat, likable dog quickly became famous for its loyalty and love of its pet parents. According to the AKC, Pugs are the 28th most popular dog breed with pet parents. Pet parents love their Pugs, regardless of the color, for their undeniable charm and good looks. If you want to adopt or purchase a Chocolate Pug, remember that they are extremely rare, and you may have to go through a breeder to get one. The World Canine Organization recognizes silver, apricot, fawn, and black Pugs. The rarer colors, such as the Chocolate Pug, are not recognized by any of the organizations, as nine times out of 10, these markings and colors mean that the dog is not a pure breed but is a result of interbreeding. Pugs Love Paper The Pug loves to play with paper. Your Chocolate Pug puppy will pull on the roll, swat at and tear up tissues, and destroy your newspaper if you let them. The best way to get a Pug to do anything you want is by offering it a snack. Once it realizes it can get a snack for doing things, it may become fixated on getting rewards. A post shared by ChilliThePekePug chillithepekepug 3. You might find that you have to force your Chocolate Pug to go out in rainy weather to use the bathroom. So, even if your Pug is housetrained, it may be tempted to use the bathroom indoors on those rainy days. They love being around their pet parents constantly and become quite attached. They also do well with other pets if they are trained and socialized as puppies. A post shared by ChilliThePekePug chillithepekepug Conclusion Brown Chocolate Pugs are adorable dogs that love to cuddle and play with their pet parents. Chocolate Pugs are a rare color variation , so they might be hard to find and are going to be a bit pricey to purchase. However, their loyalty, calm temperament, and goofy behavior may convince you that the Chocolate Pug is worth every penny. Scroll Our story My name is Kim. I have always had a love for animals. Dogs, cats and horses were always a part of my life. But I had never thought of being a breeder until I met the pug of my life. It all started years ago in a theater. When Frank the pug began singing "and now your back. .It got so bad my husband, JR, even tried to smother me so i would be quiet. Not long after the night in the theater we went puppy shopping. I love puppy shopping!!! Just looking at those puppies in the window makes my heart swell even if I can't take them home. But on this day my life would change forever. Behind one of the windows this tiny little puppy with big eyes and the cutest growl forced me take her home. I named her "All That Tazz". Tazz for short. She came home and took over the house. How something so small can have so much personality I will never know. She was stubborn, full of life, and my personal shadow for 14 years. Tazz was a Pug. We decided to start breeding when our kids moved out and we were able to be full time pug parents. Being able to devote the proper amount of time and effort to our breeding program. We take great pride and care in our breeding program and strive to improve upon it everyday. As small hobby breeders, we devote so much of our time to the raising and socialization of healthy, well tempered pug puppies. We adhere to an ethical and responsible breeding cycle to promote the utmost well being of our girls. We also value the bonds that we form with our adoptive families and it is our greatest joy to watch our puppies grow up to become a part of your family and thrive. We currently offer fawn, black, cream, silver and chocolate pugs and look forward to adding additional colored pugs in the future. Prices of our Pug puppies vary based on quality, sex, color and registry of puppy. We realize that there is strong debate on Pugs of color. But pugs of color can be traced back as far as B. The Lo-Sze pronounced low tsu appears to be the progenitor of the modern Pug. The Chinese had interbred these dogs resulting in both short and long haired as well as variously colored pups in the same litter. The greatest and sometimes saddest day is when a family comes over to pick up their new puppy. I love to see the excitement in the eyes of our new owners. A pug is a special kind of dog. Lots of love, patience and work goes into being a pug owner. They are not very big but bring a giant personality with them wherever they go. It is a great joy to bring this special dog into the lives of others. Conclusion Physical Features As the name suggests, the coat of this pug is chocolaty in color, which implies a dark brownish shade. These are named in a fancy way to attract readers and grab their attention. Their face is flat, the nose is short, and possesses a curled tail. Temperament These are charming and playful at the same time. Though they are lazy whenever awake, they make the most out of it. Grooming These need regular cleaning of ear flaps as dirt particles, and food may get trapped there. Other than that, you can bath them once a month or as and when required, but you need to ensure that you close their eyes as they are prone to infections easily. All the other needs are the same as what dogs require. Health Issues These face breathing problems due to the short flat nose and eye problems such as corneal ulcers and dry eye. Conclusion These are high maintenance dogs who can adjust with kids and old generations as well. Chocolate colored coats make them look desirable, and anyone would dream of having this as their pet. Post navigation. Chocolate coloration in Pugs is uncommon and misunderstood. It is not an accepted color by the Pug Dog Club of America, despite the fact that deep brown Pugs have been documented in the Pug breed for hundreds of years. AKC does accept this color for registration as purebred Pugs, however since PDCA makes the rules and sets the standards for the breed, these dogs are considered Fading Black and are thus registered incorrectly as Black. Regardless of your politics, the color is lovely, though somewhat hard to capture in photos.Chocolates also have brown rather than black nails, making it fairly clear to anyone who understands genetics, that this is in fact a unique genetic genotype and phenotype.I expect to occasionally have Chocolate Pug pups, though how often is very hard to predict, since how the color is produced is not well understood. If you are interested in talking more about this unique color variation, please feel free to contact me. I am not planning on selling these dogs as breeding candidates, and really it's none of your business anyway, so don't bother emailing me with your opinions. I already know what they are! For information on pups of this color, please contact me directly at Osceolapug Gmail.

Your pet has been marked as adopted Another successful adoption - amazing work Homeless Hounds Animal Rescue! Your pets have been marked as adopted More successful adoptions - amazing work Homeless Hounds Animal Rescue! Would you like to let the other enquirers know these pets have been adopted? Preview this message. Let the other enquirers know this pet has been adopted Great! Who adopted this pet? Who adopted these pets? This message will not be sent to the successful adopter. Another successful adoption - amazing work, Homeless Hounds Animal Rescue! More successful adoptions - amazing work, Homeless Hounds Animal Rescue! Archive all this pet's conversations Archive all pets conversations Your pet has been marked as on hold Your pets have been marked as on hold Would you like to let the other enquirers know these pets have put on hold? Preview and edit this message. We'll get back to you with a further update as soon as we have one. Who is this pet going on hold for? Who are these pets going on hold for? This message will not be sent to the selected person. Black, black and tan, red and tan, fawn and tan Activity level High; requires up to minutes of exercise daily Suitable for families Yes, for families that can meet the exercise and nutritional requirements Dietary needs High-protein diet; adults require high quality food depending on activity level Potential health issues Hip dysplasia, bloating, osteoarthritis, arthritis, allergies, and cataracts Australian Kelpie History Image Source: Gili Pup — pexels. The Australian Kelpie is a herding dog that was originally bred in Australia in the s. The German Shepherd is a working dog that was originally bred in Germany in the late s. These two breeds were mixed together in the early s in Australia. The Kelpie dog breed is known for being intelligent, loyal, and hardworking. They are also very active and need an abundance of exercise. German Shepherd Australian Kelpie Mix makes great family dogs and are good with children. Appearance of Kelpie Shepherd The Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mix is a beautiful dog that is sure to turn heads when out on walks. They have a sleek, black coat with tan markings around the eyes and on the legs. This unique combination makes them stand out from other dogs and is sure to get you compliments from strangers. While they may be a bit of a handful, the Kelpie Shepherd mix is a loving and loyal dog that will be your best friend for life. They are great with children and other pets and will make a wonderful addition to any family. If you are looking for a new furry friend, be sure to consider the Australian German Shepherd mix. Size Australian Kelpie German Shepherd Mix are a large breed of dog, averaging between 20 and 24 inches in height at the shoulder. They can weigh anywhere from 50 to 80 pounds. German Shepherd Kelpie Mix are medium to high energy dogs that need lots of exercise and activity to stay happy and healthy. Average weight of a Kelpie is around lbs. They are also very intelligent and can be trained to do many things. Kelpie Australian Mix are a great choice for a family dog. They are also good with children. It is good to know about Kelpie temperament before buying this dog. This mix is an excellent choice for families with children, as they are very loving and protective. When it comes to grooming, the Australian Kelpie mix is relatively easy to maintain. They only require occasional brushing and bathing. It is important to keep their nails trimmed and their ears clean to prevent infections. Australian Kelpies are known for being heavy shedders, so regular brushing is necessary to keep their coat looking its best. German Shepherds have a double coat that sheds seasonally. This mix is moderate shedders, so they will require more frequent brushing during shedding seasons. Overall, the Kelpie mix is a low-maintenance breed that is easy to groom. Feeding them the right amount will help keep them healthy and prevent obesity. When it comes to German Shepherd Kelpie Mix, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to feeding. First, these dogs need a lot of protein to maintain their energy level. Exercise Kelpie Australian Shepherd mix are a great breed for those who want an active and intelligent dog. They excel in obedience and agility trials and make wonderful companion dogs. However, they are not the best choice for first-time dog owners as they can be headstrong and require firm training. Australian Kelpie German Shepherd Mix need lots of exercise and if left alone for too long, they can become destructive. If you are looking for a Kelpie Shepherd to add to your family, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. They make wonderful companion dogs for active families. Training Aussie Kelpie Mix are highly intelligent and active, so training is a must. They need an experienced owner who can provide firm, consistent leadership. Training should be started as early as possible to prevent any unwanted behaviors from developing. Here are some tips on how to train your German Shepherd Australian Kelpie Mix: — Be consistent with your commands and rewards. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you will be able to successfully train your Kelpie Shepherd Mix. Soon you will have a well-behaved, obedient dog that is a joy to be around. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common among large breeds, and the Australian Kelpie cross German Shepherd is no exception. This can be a very painful condition, and it can lead to arthritis. This disease is a blood disorder that can cause excessive bleeding. Allergies are also common in German Shepherd cross Australian Kelpie. Many dogs in this breed are allergic to grass, pollen, and dust. If your dog is showing signs of allergies, it is important to take them to the vet so that they can get the proper treatment. While there are some health problems that are common among Australian Kelpie German Shepherd Mix, there are also many that are healthy and happy. This breed is a great choice for families who are looking for a loyal and loving companion. The answer is yes, this mix can make a great guard dog. They are loyal and protective of their family and home. They are also intelligent and easily trainable. However, they can be territorial and may not do well with other animals or children unless they are properly socialized from a young age. If you are looking for a guard dog that will also be a loving family member, then the Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mix may be the right dog for you. How much does a Kelpie German Shepherd Mix cost? They are medium to large-sized dogs that are very active and need plenty of space to run around. They are also very intelligent and trainable, making them great pets for families with children. Well, it depends on a few factors. Of course, like with any dog, there are always exceptions to the rule. Some pups may cost more or less depending on the individual circumstances. These dogs are highly trainable and make great family pets. However, they do require plenty of stimulation and may not be suitable for first-time dog owners. If you think you can provide a loving home for a Kelpie German Shepherd mix, then check out our list of rescue organizations below. Rescue Organizations:. German Shepherd history German Shepherds have been around since the late s, along with a handful of other working dogs in France and Italy. As a breed, it was found to be a relatively no-nonsense herding dog, with the demeanor almost of a stern nanny — it would protect its flock from outside predators, but sometimes seem like a brusque barking authoritarian. Proof that the value of the breed was highly appreciated is that during and after the Second World War, the German Shepherd disappeared for a while. The two names are still interchangeable today, although in the significantly post-war world, the name German Shepherd has lost the vast majority of its stigma. An intelligent and perhaps surprisingly good-natured breed, they are generally patient with children. Beware boredom in the Kelpie, though — either physical or mental. Bore a Kelpie and you can expect barking for attention and even the digging of random holes, simply by way of exercising the legs. Train an Australian Kelpie and it will pick up disciplines relatively easily and without too much fuss — some Australian Kelpies have been trained as rescue dogs because of their calm capability in most situations. Simple walks with plenty to see and smell will keep your Kelpie happy, as will some toys in the home environment. German Shepherd personality and temperament The temperament of the German Shepherd is mostly calm , intensely loyal to its clan or family, wary of strangers, either human or canine, and highly trainable. The breed was originally a herding animal but has proved adaptable to urban occupations, for instance with police departments, as sniffer dogs at airports, and in search and rescue operations. Exercise and stimulation will take the edge off your German Shepherd though, and let its loyalty and intelligence win through. The mix brings both the intelligence and trainability of its parent breeds forward, so you get a highly aware, hugely loyal dog that likes — in fact, that needs to have some sort of purpose to be best pleased with its life. Good with children, the Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mix has a protective streak that can be useful in a watchdog, but can also, without training, be preemptively defensive against strangers — both human and canine. Usefully though, the breed takes to training instinctively, the herding instinct of its forebears making it one of the easier breeds in which you can instill rules of behavior. German Shepherd size, height, and weight The German Shepherd is a dog to be reckoned with. It can stand anything from 1 foot 10 inches to 2 feet 2 inches at the shoulder, so a lap dog, this is not. Weight-wise, it dwarfs the Australian Kelpie, coming in healthily at anything from pounds. Australian Kelpie German Shepherd Mix size, height, and weight There is some fluctuation in the size, height, and weight of the Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mix, but it verges more on the lower end of the German Shepherd range than it does on the Australian Kelpie side. So you can expect a dog upward of 50 pounds, with lots of leg power, though nowhere usually near the height and ruggedness of the German Shepherd. If you leave an Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mix alone long enough to get bored, both halves of its ancestry are likely to act up — there will be barking, perhaps even a whine or howl, and there may well be digging, vandalism, and destruction. The dog will want to do anything it can to escape — both in physical and mental terms — from the situation in which it has no purpose, no action to take, no stimulation to address. Perversely, though they really need exercising to take the edge of the torpor that is distinctly unnatural to them, Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mixed breeds are not especially high maintenance, physically speaking. Moderate but regular walking will help turn the potentially bored animal into a satisfied companion. Anywhere you can let them run without a leash will be extremely appreciated, but remember to always do this safely and only in designated areas. Prepare for molting come springtime, though — they may need extra brushing then, not only to keep them comfortable but also to save your furniture and carpets from extra clumps of Kelpie hair. Bathe as needed — which might be more often than you think, because they tend to be goal-oriented dogs. That can make them unwary of their environment, so a muddy puddle is an irrelevance in the moment of chasing a stick, say. Shedding is a definite issue with German Shepherds though. There are a handful of things to watch out for with the Australian Kelpie though. Cryptorchidism, dysplasia in the hips, cerebellar abiotrophy, and luxating patella are among the things that can slow your Australian Kelpie down, and as they get older, that slow-down might happen anyway. Perversely, it will be more noticeable in the Australian Kelpie than in many breeds, because for the majority of their lives, they present as being so capable and energetic, without boredom permitting being yappy, attention-seeking dogs. German Shepherd longevity and health issues The modern German Shepherd is something of a martyr to the early in-breeding that helped produce the breed we know today. Hip dysplasia can be a real problem for German Shepherds, and can also lead to arthritis as the dog ages. German Shepherds are also prone to osteoarthritis. As with the Australian Kelpie, you can expect at least a decade of active life out of your German Shepherd. They will slow down and lose a little interest after that first ten years but have been known to regularly live to the age of .Hip dysplasia is common in older dogs especially some that have been particularly bred to have distorted weight distribution towards the back , and both arthritis and osteoarthritis can be issues for this mixed breed. If you can give them that commitment though, the Australian Kelpie German Shepherd mix could well be a good, loyal, loving fit for you and your household.

Apply for a Puppy This puppy adoption experience has been next level. Meredith got to know us and kept us updated on every step of the way. She is always ready with answers and advice to my questions! It is obvious from Day 1 how much time and love she pours into these puppies. Utilizing the Puppy Culture program and the Badass Breeder program, the puppies receive early neurological stimulation and are exposed to various socialization techniques that reduce stress and fear, promoting the development of happy and healthy puppies. Additionally, Roffka Raised partners with experienced trainers who conduct the Volhard Temperament Test at 6 weeks to assess each puppy's temperament. Initial Training The puppies undergo initial potty training, crate training, introduction to basic commands, and service dog training. They are exposed to a wide range of stimuli such as noise, visitors, texture, and sound, and are socialized with cats, adult dogs, and children. Early socialization and litter box training are also important aspects of their upbringing. Puppy Package: Everything You Need for a Great Start Included in the Roffka Raised puppy package are a range of valuable items and services designed to support you and your new furry family member. Each component plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition and a positive start to your puppy's journey. Comforting Blanket Blanket with Littermates' and Mother's Scents: Provide a familiar and comforting scent for your puppy so that they feel secure in their new home. Support for Therapy Dog Training Gift Card Towards First Training Boot Camp: For those who choose a puppy for therapy dog training, Roffka Raised goes the extra mile by providing a gift card towards the first training boot camp with their partnered trainer. This helps set you and your puppy on the path towards successful therapy dog training. Professional Grooming Care Gift Card for Puppy Bath at a Groomer: Roffka Raised understands the importance of proper grooming, which is why they include a gift card to a groomer for a puppy bath. This ensures that your puppy receives professional grooming care and starts off with good hygiene habits. This test helps you understand your puppy's individual traits and characteristics, allowing you to tailor your training and care accordingly. Early Training Foundations Early Neurological Stimulation: Roffka Raised stimulates and develops your puppy's neurological system for optimal growth. Sit Training by 7 Weeks Old: Roffka Raised begins training your puppy to sit early on for a well-behaved companion. Health Documentation and Vaccinations Certificate of Health: Documentation confirming your puppy's overall health and wellness, including a certificate of health, that shows that your puppy has received thorough veterinary care. Necessary Vaccinations: Ensure your puppy is protected against common diseases. Necessary vaccinations are also administered, giving you peace of mind knowing that your puppy is protected against common diseases. With the comprehensive puppy package from Roffka Raised, you can confidently embark on your journey with your new puppy, equipped with essential items, professional support, and the knowledge that your puppy's health and well-being are of utmost importance. Health and Guarantee Roffka Raised ensures the health of their puppies through: Regular vet check-ups every 2 weeks Deworming A vet health clearance before the puppies go to their new homes 1-Year Health Guarantee To provide further assurance, Roffka Raised offers a 1-year health guarantee that covers genetic conditions and defects, prioritizing the well-being of the puppies and the satisfaction of their owners. The breeder requests information about the buyer's preferences and requirements to assist in finding the perfect match. After submitting the application, Meredith Roffka, the breeder behind Roffka Raised, personally follows up with applicants regarding availability, pricing, and the next steps in the process. Specializing in breeding Golden Retrievers with service and therapy temperaments, Meredith and her family take great pride in their program. With a supportive husband and three children, they have personally experienced the transformative power of service dogs in overcoming early childhood trauma. This personal connection fuels their commitment to giving back and providing healthy and well-rounded puppies for service and therapy purposes. Roffka Raised goes beyond being just a breeding program—it is a family's endeavor to make a positive impact on the lives of handlers and their families. Supporting Nonprofit Service Dog Organizations and Changing Lives Roffka Raised is proud to work in collaboration with nonprofit service dog organizations to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals who benefit from the companionship and assistance of a service dog. In line with their commitment to giving back, Roffka Raised donates one puppy per year to a candidate in need through these partnerships. If you know of a deserving candidate or would like to recommend a submission for consideration, we invite you to fill out the form below and provide the necessary details. They welcome candidate submissions and recommendations throughout the year, as they believe in the power of service dogs to make a profound difference. In addition, if you would like more information on the nonprofit service dog organizations they work with, they are happy to provide you with further details. Reach out to Roffka Raised to learn more about these organizations and the incredible work they do in the service dog community. At Roffka Raised, they believe in the transformative power of service dogs and are dedicated to supporting individuals in need. Join them in our mission to change lives through the love and assistance of these remarkable canine companions. Welcome to Carolina Gilded Retrievers! We are a family-owned and operated breeder of American Kennel Club-registered golden retrievers. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Travelers Rest, SC, our state of the art kennel is situated on a 6 acre plot of land with plenty of room for our puppies to grow and develop. At Carolina Gilded Retrievers we believe that a hands-on approach to our dogs and puppies is key, and as such we built our kennel just a stone's throw away from our own house. Our dogs are our pets first and foremost. They are treated as family members and it is important that each of them receive their dedicated time with us, go on adventures, car rides, and trips. We enjoy finding each dog's desired activity whether that be agility, therapy work, or hunting. Our Values What We Breed For At Carolina Gilded Retrievers we breed our puppies for three main criteria: health, demeanor, and structure beauty , making them ideal for companionship, therapy, and service. The naturally loving temperament of the golden retriever breed is further magnified in our puppies by the hands-on love, care, and attention they are given from day one. For the first three weeks of their life they are under hour supervision. Females are all assisted during their delivery, and carefully watched prior to their delivery date. Beginning at 3 days of age, we begin our puppy curriculum which lasts until take home day. We believe it is important to set our puppies and families up for success from the beginning. Beginning at 3 days of age and continuing until 16 days of age, we engage our puppies in Early Neurological Stimulation exercises. We follow the Empowered Breeder puppy curriculum which begins at 3 weeks of age, as well as, the potty training process. From week we begin to have various novelty and exposure activities in the whelping pen. From weeks , the puppies have their own dedicated "puppy bowl" room and astro turf play area, where we offer the puppies a wide variety of exposure activities, objects and textures. Think wagon and stroller rides, to ball pit and tunnel fun, to a variety of toys that are different shapes and sizes. In addition, we begin sound desensitizing and the puppies are exposed to a wide variety of sounds such as fireworks, train noises, clapping etc. At 7 weeks of age we perform the Volhard Aptitude test. Our Commitment To You Carolina Gilded Retrievers is committed first and foremost to the health and well-being of our dogs and puppies, but we also take great joy in helping our clients find the perfect puppy for their needs. We go above and beyond for our puppies and their new families at every turn. Our extended puppy family is ever-expanding, and for us this business is a genuine labor of love. Blake typically maintains a calm demeanor but can be a little nervous with sudden or loud movements. He would benefit from a quiet and patient environment. While he may not be very interested in toys, Blake is more focused on his surroundings, which could make him an excellent adventure companion. He walks pretty well on a leash, showing his potential as a walking buddy and companion for leisurely strolls. Blake is motivated by yummy treats, making him eager to engage in training and build a stronger bond with his future family. He enjoys the gentle touch of a caring hand and is a fan of loving, soft pets. Blake has the potential to become a loyal and loving companion once he feels secure. If you're willing to open your heart and home to a sweet and cautious soul like Blake, come meet him at our shelter. With your love and patience, he has the potential to blossom into a devoted and loyal companion, bringing joy to your life for years to come. Want to meet Blake? Call or text our dog adoptions department at for an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome Monday-Saturday pm.

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

Fatigue Behavior changes loss of appetite, reluctance to engage, etc. If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment with your vet so they can perform screenings such as chest x-rays, blood tests, and an echocardiogram an ultrasound of the heart and nearby blood vessels to assess the issue. The condition can be serious if left untreated, but thankfully there are many treatment options available, such as diet therapy and medication. What To Feed a Labradoodle To live a long and happy life, Labradoodles must consume the proper amount of high-quality dog food and have access to fresh water. A balanced diet will help your pup maintain a healthy weight and avoid health conditions such as heart disease and hip dysplasia. If a pet parent is willing and able to cook for their dog, Whittenburg suggests a fresh, homemade diet that has been formulated by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. Boutique brand and grain-free foods should be avoided. That includes servings of food in the right amount that provides more than 40 nutrients that pets require in their respective life stages, including proteins, fats, carbs, and vitamins, minerals, and independent amino acids, according to the Pet Food Institute. While there is no one-size-fits-all way to feed a Labradoodle and a consultation with your vet is recommended, Whittenburg says Labradoodle puppies under 6 months old should generally be fed a minimum of three times a day and adult dogs should be fed twice a day. Unless recommended by a veterinarian, dogs fed a complete and balanced commercial food diet should not need any nutritional supplements. However, Labradoodles that are fed a homemade diet may require supplements to ensure they are getting all the vitamins and minerals necessary to thrive, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, glucosamine, and a variety of antioxidants. Behavior and Training Tips for Labradoodles Labradoodle Personality and Temperament The high-energy, attention-seeking, intelligent Labradoodle requires frequent exercise, interaction, and play. While every Labradoodle is different, proper socialization is a must for helping your dog become a well-behaved companion. These dogs are not known to be excessive barkers, but the right amount of training and exercise is required to ensure they learn to behave appropriately. Labradoodle Training Because Labradoodles are a hybrid of two highly intelligent breeds, they are eager to please and highly trainable, according to Philippou. They can be taught to excel at everything from basic tricks like sit, stay, and roll over to running agility courses. Always use positive-reinforcement techniques, like using treats to reward good behaviors, during training. Due to their gentle and sharp-witted nature, Labradoodles can even be trained to become service dogs. Fun Activities for Labradoodles. Remind children to be calm and gentle. One of the healthiest things you can do for your puppy is give pup lots of love and attention lots and lots of attention. Dogs are extremely loyal by nature and are happy when they please you. Studies show that emotionally, dogs benefit from being petted by humans as mush as humans do from petting dogs. So spend time with your little companion. Melanies Gorgeousdoodles Puppies, my loving passion The first few months are very important for establishing good habits. It is always best to be prepared and read up on the best early training skills. Remember you have to train yourself and your family to be consistent! Here are some things you can do to help your Labradoodle pup feel as comfortable as possible. Teach children to always when hand feeding puppy dog a treat to do so with food in palm -of -their -hand. Many commercial foods are acceptable but be sure to choose a well-balanced one without any grians and no corn meal. Exercising doodle puppy Exercise is an important part of labradoodles overall health Puppy develops good motor skills and balance and life skills from being out and about. Playing games such as fetch challenge a puppy mentally. Remember, exercising helps puppy go poop so take a poop scoop. Rinse thoroughly and stand back — doodle will shake and shake! Grooming Brushing or combing with a wide tooth comb your Labradoodle regularly keeps his coat looking nice and it feels good to your doodle. And just as important, this is time for you puppy to bond. Important that you keep or have a groomer your doodle hair trimmed a little around their eyes, month and privates. There are lots of good book on dog training! Her website has a lot of excellent resources. Click to find link to order Virbac products for the best price. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Limiting water in the evening will help limit your pups need to toilet in the night. However, if a crate is not used correctly, a dog can feel trapped and frustrated. Never use the crate as a punishment. Puppies under six months of age shouldn't stay in a crate for more than three or four hours at a time except at night. They can't control their bladders and bowels for that long. Normal Puppy Behaviours Your puppy is a baby. Jumping, nipping or biting, chewing, toileting accidents, limited attention span, grabbing objects and running off, not listening, etc. It is our job to teach our puppies how to live in our world, according to our rules, in a gentle and positive way. If you and your pup are struggling with some of these behaviours, please check out some of the resources noted below for tips on how to address them. Behavioural Issues Obedience issues and behavioural issues are not the same thing. Sometimes our pups need more one-on-one focused effort to address behavioural issues. Often the best way to deal with behavioural issues is to hire a trainer or behaviourist to come to your home for a one-on-one consult. We recommend trainers that use positive training methods. As an intelligent, trainable breed, Labradoodles do not respond well to strong aversive training. Positive reinforcement and clicker training are far more successful and fun for Labradoodles. Formal Training To best teach your pup how to live in our world, through socialization and training, it is important to understand the developmental phases of puppies. Their reaction to similar stimuli will be different depending on their stage of development. Socialization is the first step in creating a well-behaved dog. Once the pup has had a negative experience, you need to work harder to turn it into a positive experience. Present them in a way that your pup can draw confidence from you, without coddling them. Once your pup has had its second set of vaccines DAP , it can attend puppy socialization classes. It lists the situations to expose your dog to for optimal socialization. They also provide an opportunity for your dog to interact with other dogs in a controlled and supervised environment. You can find information at this link below:. Training We Recommend: A Great Beginning: We start to train and work with our puppies from the first day, socializing as well as following the suggested guidelines of the best trainers in the US. We have a well researched program of using sounds, small tasks, toys and other materials to influence and help your puppy be an easy going, fun loving, social and well trained adult. Trainers tell us that the most important time for your puppy is between 8 and 11 weeks so we work with you to understand what you can do to continue to prepare your puppy for the world. Training: We recommend training your puppy as much as possible. The best puppies know their boundaries and are taught what is expected with love and devotion. The sooner your puppy is trained the sooner it is given more freedom. Therefore, strict training results in big rewards for puppy and owner. Labradoodles are easily trained. They should be completely potty trained within 4 to 6 weeks after pick up. Most are sitting, staying, shaking paws, and retrieving by 3 months of age, many can get the newspaper and more by then with proper attention. Puppies will jump up and it takes time and consistency to break this habit early. Crate training or room training is recommended: First I will cover crate training then room training. Crate Training: First get over the fact that to you it is a cage, to them it is a safe place when they are alone, safe from outside things and noises puppies have yet to become fearless of. They view it as their cave, a place they can sleep with the peace of mind. The crate should be just big enough for them to stand up, walk in a circle, and lay down. This is a different size at 8 weeks as it is at 4 months. Therefore I like something like the Life Stages Ultima Triple Door Folding Dog Crates from Petsmart where there is an additional wall that can be adjusted to increase the crate size as the puppy grows. It should contain toys. Bedding is typically used to pee on so do not use bedding until later once the dog can easily go all night without "going". I think the crate should be in a room, a selected safe room that later when the crate is no longer used becomes the place that when visitors come over who are not "dog people", the dog would stay in while these visitors are there. The first night the crate can be in a bedroom close to people and then later moved into the safe room if you desire. Some puppies pee in their crate at first and some don't, have patience. The point of the crate is to discourage peeing for a period of time. First crate the puppy for an hour or two and at night, then gradually longer. The point is to take the dog out before it has to go to the bathroom and as time goes by it can hold it longer and longer. Never more than 4 hours except at night when at first I recommend you get up twice during the night and let the puppy out, after two days wait and let the puppy out once in the middle of the night, gradually extend the wait time an hour until finally they have gone all night. After a few months I recommend graduating to room training. Remember to remove food and water an hour or more before leaving the dog in the crate, the puppy should be let outside and empty when left in the crate. Room Training: Select a safe room that when visitors come over who are not "dog people", the dog would stay while the visitors are there. For example, an extra bathroom or utility room. It should contain a wee pad if needed and toys. Bedding is typically used to pee on so do not use bedding until later. Some puppies pee in their space at first and some don't, have patience. This is the reason for the wee pad, see "wee pad" for how this is used and gradually removed. The point of the room is to discourage peeing for a period of time and keep them out of trouble. First confine the puppy for an hour or two and at night, then gradually longer. The room should be used up to a year when you are gone and at night. The sooner the puppy is trained and you can trust them the sooner they have free roam of the house. Remember to remove food and water an hour or more before leaving the dog, the puppy should be let outside and empty when left in the room. Wee pads: We put wee pads in the utility room when the puppies move into there, the wee pad is placed to one side. They have some chemical that draws the puppies.Take them out as much as possible; the point of the wee pad is an emergency situation only. Eventually they only use the wee pads at night. I suggest the wee pad be placed close to bed, in their "room" or at the back door in case someone doesn't notice them at the door. It works like this, and please don't punish them for using the wee pad but don't congratulate them either, congratulate them when they go outside. Eventually they select to please you versus the wee pad and then they just stop using the wee pad. When it is dry for a few days take it away.Food: We recommend free food and water all day if you are home. We use the best puppy food available. We do not feed people food to our dogs ever, some things you would never imagine are actually toxic listed below. When you pick up your puppy we give you a bag of food so you can continue it or mix it with whatever you desire slowly decreasing the amount of our food over time. But understand what you are feeding your dog. To find a good food read the first 5 ingredients on the bag. Now ask the following questions: What are the protein sources? We believe the primary source should come from quality animal protein, not vegetable protein or grain. Foods that list 2 or more grains in the first 5 ingredients may have more vegetable protein than animal protein. We prefer Chicken as the main ingredient. What about grains? Two or more grains listed in the first 5 ingredients means your food may have more vegetable protein than animal protein. Grains such as soy, corn, corn gluten and wheat gluten can be difficult to digest, which means less nutrition, possible allergic reactions and more clean up. Wheat, barley, rice, corn and oats are all man-raised crops that a dog would never eat in the wild. These ingredients are not properly digested and in many situations cause a dog to show allergy symptoms. Are there by-products? Some manufacturers consider by-products inferior sources of protein and, depending on the source, they can be difficult to digest. These ingredients contain meat sources that are typically unsuitable for human consumption. What are the fat sources? Some fats are better than others. We believe the primary fat source in dog food should be animal based because animal fats contain a profile of fatty acids that are easily metabolized and thus are generally more available to the body. Contact General Information and Canine Behavior The pages within the Homecoming Prep segment of our website are private and can only be accessed through the link provided through email and through the link on the Prepare For Puppy page. The button on this page is titled Homecoming Prep. Once you are in the Homecoming Prep section of the website you will need to use your back button to navigate the pages and return to this Homecoming Prep home page. General Information The following links and attachments include general information concerning your puppy. This will help you prepare for your puppy's arrival and get you started on the right foot. Click each page above to see a larger image in a readable size. Puppy Behavior The following links and attachments include general information on caring for your puppy. Please be sure you, your children and all family members understand the signals your puppy is giving you. The puppy is not a toy and not meant to be held at will. Set limits on how many times a day no more than 4 that your child can hold the puppy. Children should only be allowed to hold the puppy if they are seated. Too much handling can physically hurt the puppy as well as begin the process of the puppy not tolerating your child. No walking around carrying the puppy. This is true for all children under 8. Puppies will chew on and sometimes ingest toys. If ingested, the pieces can lodge and cause your puppy to have to undergo surgery that is not always successful. Puppies generally do NOT like to be hugged. Puppies will jump up on people. There are two primary responses that most dogs will respond to. The first is to cross your arms, hiding your hands, and turn around showing the dog your backside and being very still. If your dog continues to jump on you they are not responding to this method and you should not continue trying it. Instead, step right into the space where there front paws are on the ground, being careful not to step on their feet. Repeat this behavior each time your dog jumps and instruct all people who your dog interacts with to do this same thing. Puppies and dogs in general will feed off of the people around them. Those who are very exciteable and talk in high pitched tones will create a dog who responds to seeing people by becoming super amped up and difficult to follow simple commands. Try to limit this. It's not in the puppies best interest to repeatedly be encouraged to escalate the excitement level to this high level. This is when the dog will become less focused and less able to follow your guidance. Keep in mind that your dog will feed off of you, your tone and your energy level. But will you recognize the signs? Imagine your puppy is growling at a child. Could you have prevented this from happening? Perhaps, but you have to know what to look for. Click below to learn more. The Family Dog: Stop the 77 Puppy Development Stages Click the link below for a great resource to learn about your puppies development. Once you get to this site, click on Puppies, then development stages. Use your back button to return to this page. This is usually the first place pictures and video show up. We also have a private Facebook page for owners of our puppies. At this time, you can join this group by answering a few short questions. It is titled Legendary Labradoodles Owners Group. There is info about grooming, vet care, training and all sorts of topics. There are links in the footer of this page to our main Facebook page, not the owners group and our instagram account. If you click on the icon it will take you to our pages. The coat and nails of an Australian Labradoodle require consistent maintenance and monthly grooming for them to look and feel their best. The ALAA is proud to share this essential grooming information with your pup! Grooming Your Australian Labradoodle This is a basic grooming video for an Australian Labradoodle and an accompanying manual, provided by the Australian Labradoodle Association of America. They are easily forgotten but must be trimmed like every other nail. If you do not trim them, your dog much more likely to snag them on something and tear them. A torn dewclaw is a very painful thing for your dog and often results in a trip to the vet. If you are not comfortable trimming or feel unprepared to do so, have a groomer or vet show you how. Regular cleaning and care is a must. Hair that rubs against the eye can introduce bacteria, leading to infection. Teeth Care Your dog absolutely requires good dental care. Each dog has different exercise needs, but Labradoodles generally need an hour of physical activity every day. Good options include running, playing a good game of fetch, taking a long walk, or jogging or biking with your dog. Some exercises can actually harm developing joints. When exercising your dog, remember: If your dog is still growing, do not take him or her for long jogs, and definitely do not take him or her with you for a run. Developing joints can be harmed by repetitive motion on hard surfaces. Avoid exercising in extreme heat. If you plan to take water along for you, remember that your dog will need water, too. If your dog seems tired, discontinue what you are doing and allow him or her to rest. Canine health depends on the appropriate balance of nutrients and calories sufficient for prime growth, activity level and cellular repair. Whether you decide on a dry kibble diet, a raw food diet or a combination of the two, be sure that the diet is complete and balanced. We suggest choosing food with high-quality animal proteins, whole grains and vegetables from organic sources. Avoid foods with unidentified fat or protein sources, byproducts, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, and added sweeteners. Buy healthy, and again, avoid preservatives, fillers or byproducts. Read more about dog diets and health: Whole Dog Journal provides an annual review of the best of the best dry kibble foods. For information about the different types of dog food. Fleas and Ticks Fleas and ticks are a nuisance, and if not taken care of right away, can infest and possibly kill your dog. They spread disease, cause allergic reactions and transmit blood and intestinal parasites. There are many ways to tackle fleas and ticks, and most chemical products are safe if used properly. Specialized products treat individual issues, and some products prevent and kill both fleas and ticks. One product treats for both and also prevents heartworm. A few of the most studied and well-known products: Advantage treats fleas only. Monthly topical. Frontline Plus treats fleas and ticks. Revolution treats fleas, ticks and heartworm. Sentinel treats fleas only. Monthly oral. For those who prefer holistic care, frequent bathing and manual removal of fleas and ticks can help prevent infestation of your home and yard. Use a flea comb and tick remover after each bath. Follow this labradoodle puppy care guide to help with the transition. A few things you might want to have with you when you pick up your puppy are a bottle of water, some baby wipes, and a towel or a blanket. If you are meeting your puppy at the airport, your puppy may be thirsty from the trip. We put a frozen dish of water in the crate, but it is usually long gone by the time your puppy arrives. The wipes are needed in case the puppy may have soiled the crate. The towel or blanket also, in case the puppy has soiled the crate, is for you to hold your puppy or to put in the crate. Using a Leash to Bond with Your Puppy When your puppy first arrives to your home, we suggest you keep the puppy on a leash for the first couple of days. Do your best to have the primary caregiver be the main person handling the leash. We also suggest you not have outside visitors to the home for the first couple of days. Give your puppy some time to adjust to her new family first before she meets your world. Your puppy is going to be a little confused at her new surroundings. From the beginning your puppy needs to learn that she is at the bottom, below even the youngest child. She needs to learn who her main leaders are and what the boundaries are in her new home. Labradoodles are people loving dogs! Your puppy will want to bond. Your puppy is smart and will quickly learn that the person attached at the other end of the leash is important to her. Your Labradoodle will look to you for example and comfort. She will learn that you are her source of not only example and comfort, but also food! Using the leash these first few days will help your new puppy learn who to trust and who to please. Other Advantages of Leash Training Your New Puppy Even if you are not holding onto the leash, you can control where she goes easily by stepping on the dragging leash. This is much more comfortable to a dog than having you lunge over her to get her. Keeping her on a leash also allows you to monitor where your puppy is in the house, and help her learn which rooms you would like her to be in and where she is not allowed. Lastly, having her on a leash helps her adjust to the idea of a leash so that she is ready to be trained to heel on a leash. A crate can be a useful and comforting tool or it can be an overused source of misery for your puppy. We suggest using a crate for very short periods of time during the day and for your puppy to sleep in at night. During the day there will come short periods of time where you have a task to do that requires your full attention. While your puppy is still in the house training stage, the crate can be very valuable to you. By putting your puppy in the crate for short amounts of time during the day, say an hour, maybe two, you can accomplish what you must do and also help puppy control her bladder. As soon as you let her out, immediately take her outdoors to relieve herself. Using the crate this way will encourage her to only go to the bathroom where it is appropriate to go. If your puppy is not crate trained already, you will have to work up to the hour or two hour mark. By the time your puppy arrives, she should be able to sleep around 7 hours through the night in a crate. Of course all puppies are individuals and so the time can vary. Your Golden Xpress Labradoodle puppy is used to being in a crate, but she is also used to smelling and hearing her siblings nearby. She may have adjustments to make in her new home because of this. Another factor in labradoodle puppy care is that their little tummies often get upset over the first couple of weeks in their new homes. To help her adjust to your home atmosphere and sleeping during the night, keep her crate in your bedroom at night. Keeping your hand down by the wire door is comforting to her. Responding to her cries with talking or tapping encourages your puppy to cry and whine more. Tapping on the crate lightly is ok, but not in response to her noise making. Another thing to think about with regard to labradoodle puppy care is if your puppy starts to wet her crate, you need to first check and see if her crate is too big. Generally, dogs do not relieve themselves in their sleeping places. If so, either use a smaller crate or block part off with a box. If her crate seems the right size, you may need to take out anything like blankets or soft materials. When your puppy has successfully kept her crate dry for a couple of weeks, try putting the bedding back in. Feeding Your Puppy At first, your puppy will need to be fed 3 times a day. Once they have adjusted, offer food to them all day so they learn not to gorge at meal time, and always make sure your puppy has clean, fresh water available to her. Feed your puppy in a quiet place, free from distractions. Put a good amount of food in her bowl and let her eat as much as she would like. After about 20 minutes or so, remove the food. Repeat this morning, mid-day and evening. It helps keep teeth and gums in better shape than wet food does. DO NOT feed your puppy people food. Your food does not provide the nutrition that your puppy needs. She will choose to have the people food and not eat her own. Feed your dog people food and you will have one unhealthy puppy. Just make sure you choose high quality dog treats with some nutrition. At Golden Xpress Labradoodles we give our dogs and puppies different kinds of treats: dog biscuits, dog turkey or chicken jerky. The jerky is good for a training aid around the house — to teach the puppy to come or to sit, or down. They are very intelligent and very willing to learn, and this makes them easier to train. Just remember that they are puppies so be patient. Lots of Loves Above all labradoodle puppy care requires lots of love. Make sure you pet her and hold her so she knows she belongs to your family. Labradoodles are loyal, loving dogs — give your puppy your love and she will return it tenfold. Labradoodle puppy care is something we can help you with! SCL has been breeding and raising Labradoodles since .Our opinion is that puppies should be raised with the sights and sounds of a typical home from day one, since it is typical homes our puppies go to. They should be exposed to as many varied sights and sounds as possible. Our puppies are born in our bedroom. A quiet and safe environment for mama to feel secure in is extremely important. A stressed mama releases stress hormones and her milk is affected, which affects babies. The stress hormones pour through the milk to babies resulting in higher stressed dogs as they mature. It is amazing how stress can negatively impact the development of puppies in so many different ways. We do not allow other dogs into the room, or other people into the room. A mama feeling a threat will quickly jump up and can unintentionally step on and harm, or kill, a newborn puppy. All of these reasons and more are why our pups are born away from the traffic of the rest of the house and in a place mama can relax in and feel safe in. We weigh them daily, check their identifying tags, change bedding, clip nails, etc. Just enough handling that they become used to us, but not so much that they are put under negative stress. Once puppies are about weeks old, we move them from our bedroom to our puppy nursery. The sights and sounds puppies are exposed to increase, but we are still able to control the degree of stress to mama and not have her and babies right in the middle of where people are coming and going through the main part of our home. Like most families, we have people in and out all the time, but we do not want mama feeling strangers are a threat, and we do not want visitors feeling they can handle puppies just because they are in the middle of our home. We control the exposure puppies have at this age and introduce them to things carefully. We want every experience to be a positive one. We want our puppies to be safe from disease and bacteria others may bring into our home. Around 4 weeks, they are introduced to a potty box, they begin eating mush, and they have much more people interaction with our family members or friends that have been taught how to properly handle a puppy, so the experience is positive for the puppy. They are exposed to a variety of musical instruments, as we are a musical family. They hear the radio, sometimes a movie on t. We begin introducing little slides and toys and rotate out daily. At about weeks of age, puppies begin being introduced to the great outdoors. We have a wonderful outdoor play yard with artificial turf, play toys, wading pools, and a variety of toys. Pups experience all sorts of new textures under foot, and have room to run and play. They are introduced to crates without doors and quickly learn to love them as a safe place. When weather does not allow for outdoor play, pups have a 12 x 12 indoor play area with much of the same types of toys and structures. During this time their exposure to outdoor things begins. Lawn mowers, goats, horses, cars, cats, chickens, etc. They are taken for walks in a puppy stroller. They visit the vet office. We increase their level of exposure as is positive for them and do everything we can to make sure they are well adjusted, relaxed, happy puppies. In general, we follow a raising and socialization program designed to slowly increase the exposure and stress to puppy as they are able to cope with it in a positive way. Our goal is to provide families with puppies that have had the best start in life that we can possibly give them. Once they leave our care, it is necessary for families to be committed to continuing this positive exposure and socialization. The next few months are just as critical as the first two. Build on the foundation we started and you will end up with one of the most rewarding experiences and relationships with your dog. This video on our YouTube channel visually walks you through all the things you need to prepare for your new puppy. What should you be doing for your puppy once he has joined your family to ensure you are providing the environment necessary to help your puppy be an outstanding companion? At Spring Creek, we are very careful to provide the appropriate socialization and experiences while raising each litter. It is up to every family to continue the careful raising of their puppy during the following critical periods after the puppy has left us. This document is a great resource for understanding what happens as a puppy develops. It is very important to understand that the risk of parvo is much less than the risk of ending up with a puppy with very serious socialization issues that result in families choosing to give up their dogs later or even have them euthanized due to extreme fear and fear aggression issues. A few of the large guide dog organizations have done studies on the risks of parvo versus the risks of poor socialization and found the risk of parvo to be extremely low compared to fear and aggression issues that resulted from well intentioned people keeping their puppies secluded and isolated until vaccinations were completed. We do not encourage keeping your pup isolated, and we DO encourage as much safe socialization as you can find with your puppy in meeting other people and other dogs. That is a wonderful and rewarding experience, but it does require a lot of work as well as require understanding what you need to allow and need to do in order to prevent problems from developing. This includes testing your children. How can you help your puppy and children get along and help your children know what is appropriate handling of a puppy? The info below is invaluable and every family with a child that wants to adopt a puppy should read these pages as well as talk about these things regularly with your children. If you are not supervising your children with your puppy, or if you are not requiring your children to handle puppy appropriately, you are almost certain to have issues develop. He grabs your pants and hangs on while growling. He growls when you try to take something from him. And, you start to wonder if he was the dominant one in the litter. You are sure you are doing everything right and that there is just something wrong with your puppy. ALL puppies growl, nip, and bite. If children are involved in your home, you should not expect a puppy to respect your child, and it will be up to YOU to supervise and make sure you intervene if a puppy growls or nips at your child. Children are not capable of correcting a puppy in an appropriate manner, and if you tell your child to correct puppy, you will likely make the problem worse. Since puppy knows your child does not have the same authority as you do, they will almost certainly react to being corrected by them and growl or nip or bite even more. They see your children as equals and they are treating them as they would another puppy in their litter. Why would you expect anything different from your puppy? He is not a stuffed animal and he does have a mind of his own. Like your teenage child, a juvenile puppy wants to explore their limits and it can be frustrating. Growling and nipping that is part of the normal communication process for a puppy CAN turn into very concerning behaviors if you do not know how to communicate with them properly. How to train properly using rewards and keeping training fun. Understand methods for correcting behavior that will not result in your puppy challenging you further. Always have a calm and confident attitude. If you have read this and are concerned you may not know how to properly deal with normal growling and nipping, then you need to get professional help involved with you and your puppy as soon as puppy is in your home. If you do not, then look for another trainer immediately. Not all are created equal and a trainer who knows what they are doing will absolutely be able to help you train your puppy, identify problems, and know how to resolve them when they come up. We personally highly recommend hiring a behaviorist to help you with training, not just a normal dog trainer. There is a BIG difference between a trainer and a behaviorist and their knowledge is extremely helpful and useful, especially when it comes to working with normal, but problematic behaviors. All foods are not created equal. Many of the ingredients used in dog foods are fillers that have been shown to be the very reason that so many pets are developing diseases that shorten their life span or make their quality of life less than desirable. Do you really want to feed your dog these foods? We have researched dog foods, and have found that there are companies using high quality, holistic ingredients. Foods that are not made with fillers and poor quality ingredients, but foods that will contribute to helping your dog live a long and healthy life. Also, the Dog Food Advisor online reviews dog foods and is an excellent resource to utilize. The cost of a quality food may initially seem high, but remember that you are feeding less than you would if you were purchasing a cheap grocery store food as their system absorbs more of the food and they eat less, which also results in smaller stools. Your dog is a loved family member and deserves to be fed a quality food that will keep him in good health for a very long time. There are a couple of foods on our recommended list for you to consider feeding your puppy. Three brands are available from privately owned local stores as well as can usually be ordered online. All the below foods are from companies that do not have recall histories, have fabulous food reviews from owners and independent dog food review sources, focus on fresh, quality ingredients, and have years of history proving their reliability, safety, and commitment to providing a quality product. We try to keep this list updated with cost breakdown, but prices vary a bit depending on where you purchase, so the prices below may be slightly different than what you find in a storefront or online store as things change constantly. Our preferred quality, all natural puppy food that does NOT contain chicken, beef, fish, wheat, corn, soy, etc. They frequently have intro discounts and if you set up a couple products on auto-ship you get free shipping! Our preferred adult dog food! Does not contain chicken, beef, fish, wheat, corn, soy, etc. When you receive a puppy from us, our recommendation is to continue feeding the food that puppy is accustomed to for at least a couple of weeks. After a few weeks, changing to another food doing a slow transition at least 7 days is completely fine. Please feed a food that does not contain the ingredients below. These are common sources of allergy, digestive, or other health issues for dogs.

For the complete list please Click Here. This number can vary depending on the breeder and where you purchase your new puppy from. This will guarantee that the puppy is purebred, healthy, and up-to-date on its vaccinations. The health of any breed is largely dependent upon its breeding practices, so this becomes even more important with purebred dogs such as boxers who are prone to hereditary diseases. Be aware that the vast majority of the pet stores have their puppies supplied by unscrupulous breeders. The best place to find reputable boxer breeders will be through the local boxer breed clubs, they will be able to put you in touch with responsible breeders who are aware of the health issues specific to this breed. Above all, take your time. Do not ever, rush into any decision when purchasing a new family member. If you do so, then chances are that it may turn out to be one of the biggest mistakes of your life. Visit Your Arizona Boxer Breeder in Person Every responsible breeder will insist on you visiting them in person before buying a puppy. The breeder should be happy to offer you references from previous purchasers, as well as conducting an interview with yourself the potential new owner. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Arizona Most responsible breeders will have no problem in offering you references from people that they have sold puppies to previously, even better if they can provide more than just one. Other than asking for references from previous buyers, always ask the breeder what type of after-care is provided. Reputable breeders will also offer at least a 6-month health guarantee with their puppies; this means that they will either fix or replace your boxer puppy at no cost to yourself if it falls ill within this time frame. This way you can be assured that you are purchasing a healthy boxer pup, free of known genetic issues. The most reputable boxer breeders will have no issues in allowing their clients to meet one another. Find out whether the breeder uses a good vet. If they do, then they will be more than willing to give you contact information for their veterinarian, as well as provide you with a recommendation. It is unfortunate but true that puppy mills do exist and finding one can be extremely difficult as most will go out of their way to make it appear as if they are running a legitimate business. Healthy boxer pups grow into healthy boxers, so quality over quantity should always be the goal. This is not a sign of distrust but rather one of concern for both you and your new boxer pup. A good breeder will ask you what type of contract you would like before selling a puppy to you. By asking this question you can ensure that your boxer pup has never had ANY health problems such as Parvo or other issues that may become apparent in later life such as heart disease. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy The age at which your new boxer pup is received will often determine how much preparation you need to do. While it may seem like a daunting task, if done properly it can be achieved within just a week or two of arriving home — providing that everyone in the household understands what is expected and are prepared for this new addition. Boxers are very intelligent dogs which means that, with patience on your part, they will soon learn exactly where they are supposed to go. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Boxer Description The Boxer has a compact and powerful body. Their head is proportionate with the body and has a short muzzle with an underbite. The tail is set high and typically docked. Their coat is short, smooth, and comes in multiple colors including fawn, tan, brindle, mahogany, and black and often with white markings. Boxers also come in a white coat, but some clubs will not register them. Discover more about our Boxer puppies for sale below and see why they are one of the most popular breeds in the U. Disposition and Temperament Boxers are happy, playful, curious, and energetic. So much so that many remain extremely fit and athletic into their old age. They are very intelligent, eager, quick to learn and known to be a good breed for competitive obedience. Boxers bond closely with their family and are loyal and affectionate. In fact, they are known to get along well with children. A properly socialized Boxer will get along with dogs and other household pets, such as cats, but small animals such as rodents or birds may be too tempting. Being energetic and playful, the Boxer can become boisterous and jump on people without proper training and leadership. Boxers need to go on a daily walk and get daily mental and physical exercise. Without it, they can become stressed out. You should start training your Boxer while it is a puppy: Boxers do best with dominant owners who can be firm, consistent and committed. You need to establish yourself as the leader of the pack with this dog breed. Owners who do not establish dominance often find their dogs to be stubborn or demanding which can hamper the owner-pet relationship. Living Conditions As for living arrangements, they can be fine in an apartment if sufficiently exercised even though they are active indoors, but Boxers really do best with an average-sized yard. They are also temperature sensitive, overheating easily and chilling quickly. Boxers have a natural tendency to protect their owners and home, and although visitors who the dog recognizes are not seen as a threat, will protect their owners if they sense danger. Boxers are courageous which makes them great watchdogs and will even restrain intruders. It is important to know Boxer puppies require human leadership and need to be taught not to be boisterous or jump up on people. It requires very little grooming. Brush it with a rubber curry brush once or twice a week to keep it looking good. The Boxer tends to be a clean breed only occasionally needing a bath. Origin The name Boxer is thought to come from the way they use their front paws for just about everything; pawing at its food bowls, toys, and even its owner in a playful way. The Boxer was developed in Germany in the 19th century and its ancestors were two German mastiff-type breeds. They were later bred with the ancestors of the Mastiff and Bulldog. Boxers were first used for dog-fighting, bull-baiting, cart pulling, cattle dogs, rounding up livestock, and to catch and pin wild boar and bison until hunters could arrive. Later they became popular theater and circus dogs. There are two types of Boxers: the German and the American Boxer. German Boxers have bigger heads and are generally more muscular than American Boxers. See store for details on a puppy. The American Canine Association, Inc. The American Canine Registry. Questions about Boxer puppies for sale in Phoenix AZ? We have answers. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in Phoenix AZ? These inputs can include things like where the breeder is located, the sex and color of the puppy, and even how much experience the breeder or business has. Will my puppy be from Phoenix Boxer breeders? How are Boxer breeders Phoenix screened? We take screening for breeders and businesses who want to be part of our network very seriously and hold them to the high standards that are outlined within our Breeder Pledge. We only want to work with the upper echelon when it comes to standards of animal welfare and ethical practices for Boxer puppies for sale Phoenix. How is Uptown Puppies different? We help you focus on the fun part of choosing your new Phoenix Boxer puppy for sale from a wide selection, all while taking care of all of the screening and vetting process beforehand. Puppy mills are unfortunate organizations whose mission is to pump out as many puppies as possible to make as much money as possible, all while mistreating the vulnerable animals in their care. Puppies from these places can often have expensive vet bills down the road due to neglect and poor breeding practices. Are there Boxers for sale Phoenix I can get right away? You can start searching our online network of breeders and businesses for Boxer for sale Phoenix immediately! Go ahead and start scrolling through those cute faces today! Boxers are a well established breed and have ancestors that can be traced all the way back to ancient civilizations in B. In their modern form, they were bred in Germany as guard dogs and hunting dogs. They were eventually brought over to the U. What should I expect after I get a Boxer? You can expect lots of adventures and laughs when you choose to get a Boxer puppy. They are one of the silliest and most playful breeds around and have an endless supply of antics to keep you entertained. They are also well rounded and have the intelligence and affection to go with their playful personalities. Are Boxers good family dogs? Boxers for sale in Phoenix make great family dogs because they always have the energy to keep up with an active family and love to play. They get along with adults and children alike and have a protective nature and desire to keep the whole family safe. How big do Boxers get? Boxers are a medium to large sized dog breed and once those cute little Boxer puppies in Phoenix grow into adulthood you can expect them to be anywhere from inches tall on average and weigh anywhere from pounds. Usually males are slightly taller and weigh on the higher side than females.

This, combined with their sweet nature, elegant looks, and tiny size makes them a great option as family pets. However, they can live between 12 and 14 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, other directories, and forums — do everything you can to ensure you are not scammed and are not buying from a puppy mill. 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. As you may 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. All poodles that are up to 10 inches high at the shoulder are toy poodles — if they are even smaller than that, they are still toy poodles. If visiting in person, check the environment the puppies are raised in — make sure that they are kept in clean areas, there are toys the dogs can play with, they have enough room to exercise, there is fresh water available, 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 toy poodle, make sure to do a lot of research, do not buy from the first breeder you see, 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. Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. Website: Texas Red Poodles 2. Wolfe Island is located in the quiet, country town of Dayton, Texas. The family raises their puppies and dogs in their home, which is situated on two acres. There is more than enough space for the puppies and dogs to run, play, explore, and roam freely. With such a peaceful and relaxing environment, Wolfe Island provides its puppies with the best start possible. They pride themselves on raising the happiest, healthiest Poodles possible. Their elegant, wonderful yet practical Poodles are bred from health-tested dogs. They are percent healthy and free of genetically hereditary issues. Wolfe Island cares a lot about the health of its puppies. In addition to breeding only healthy dogs, they provide their puppies and dogs with the best nutrition possible. They feed the pups and dogs raw diets and nutritionally-balanced treats. Other than this, the puppies are up-to-date on vaccines and are regularly checked by a licensed vet. Your new baby will come home with their health and vaccine record. To assure you that you are buying a healthy puppy, the breeder offers a two-year genetic guarantee. Because of the quality of puppies they breed, their puppies are in many states in the US, including Oklahoma, Colorado, California, and Alaska. To ensure you get the best puppy-buying experience possible, Wolfe Island offers delivery anywhere in the United States. This family has been breeding and raising Poodles since , with almost a decade of experience. They know a unique health, exercise, and nutritional needs of this breed. Interestingly, they share their knowledge about this breed with their customers to ensure they give the pups the care they deserve. All their puppies also come with lifetime support, so you will not embark on the journey of raising your puppy alone. This small family-owned breeding program is located in Dallas, Texas. All their puppies and dogs are raised in a family environment, receiving the love, care, and attention they deserve. They are all screened for solid temperaments and health. The puppies are genetically sound and with lovable temperaments. The family breeds health, conformation, temperament, beauty, and uniformity. These are the vital traits they look for before adding a dog to their breeding program. Their thorough screening process helps them eliminate the chances of producing puppies with genetic defects. As a family, they have experienced great joy and pride in raising some of the best Poodles in Texas and other states in the US. Distance has never been a barrier to their customers because they provide shipping by airlines to any destination in the United States. If you are looking for a place to buy family-raised, happy, healthy, and happy Poodle puppies, this is one of the best breeders to consider. All their puppies are exposed from day one to a family, fun environment that encourages mellow, calm behavior. They offer one-on-one and group socialization, human handling, tolerance of noise, alone-time, and adaptation to as many day-to-day activities as possible. In a bid to prepare them for their new families, they also potty and crate the puppies. All their puppies have the best start possible before joining their new families. They also brush their coats, clip their nails, and groom them regularly, so your puppy will already be used to this routine before coming home. Poodle Breeder Information:.