german shepherd puppies what to know

Rottle Highlights Rottles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Rottweiler or Poodle parents. The main colors of Rottles are brown, black, white, red, gray, and blue. Rottles are relatively easy to train compared to other mixed breeds, as long as training starts at an early age. Due to their high intelligence, they can become destructive if they get bored. Rottles have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in. Be sure to include some mentally stimulating games. Generally, the Rottle is considered a family friendly mixed breed dog. Rottle History The Rottle mixed dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Rottweilers and Poodles sometime in the s , likely in North America. They continued to create Rottles as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the Rottle breed got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Rottle rescues, or check with breed specific Rottweiler or Poodle rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Rottle Size As the Rottle is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Rottweiler and Poodle parents, you can expect Rottles to be on the medium to large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 90 pounds and range in height from twelve to 27 inches at the shoulder. However, many can be smaller or larger than average. Rottle Personality Many Rottle parents describe their mixed breed dogs as incredibly smart and eager to please. This makes training Rottles relatively easy compared to other mixed breeds, as long as training starts at an early age. They can also grow protective of their favorite humans and may bark at unexpected guests. If you want a watchdog who is also super snuggly with your family, the Rottle may be the right pup for you. These dogs are incredibly trainable, and the sooner you start, the better. Rottles who are untrained or unsocialized may develop negative coping patterns like resource protecting. Be sure to use a lot of positive reinforcement with your Rottle, as they crave your validation. Rottles can get along in a one-person household, but they truly are fabulous family dogs. Rottle Health The Rottle breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Rottweiler and Poodle also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Some of the more common health problems Rottles suffer from include: Dysplasia. Lifespan Sociability The Rottie Poo is a hybrid breed, which means that normally you should be able to find a Rottle at a lower price than the parent breeds. Take your time to search for an ethical and reputable breeder. A good breeder will offer healthy puppies from good stock. Do your research on the breed and any breeders you consider buying from. Speak to the breeder. Ask questions about the breed and their puppies, in particular. Ask to see proof of screening and health checks. This will include proof that the parent dogs have been screened and checked for hip and elbow dysplasia. Ensure that you get to meet the puppy before you part with any money. Ask to see one or both parents. Check to see if the mother is responsive and looks healthy. Ensure that they are happy to meet you, but not overly friendly. This is a reasonable sign that your puppy will show a similar temperament, because puppies learn from their moms, just like babies do. Because hybrid breeds are not worth the thousands of dollars that purebred dogs fetch, and because hybrids like the Rottle can occur naturally without intentional breeding, you may find one in a local shelter. Try to determine why the dog was put up for adoption, and ensure that you meet the dog at least once before you adopt. If you have dogs of your own, try to arrange to bring them with you to meet your rescue Rottle before you take them home. The Poodle parent is described as hypoallergenic. One of the reasons that the Poodle has become such a popular pet, other than his intelligence and his loving nature, is because he sheds very little compared to other breeds. It is also beneficial for those that suffer allergies but still want a dog. Allergy sufferers are allergic to a specific protein that is found in dog saliva, skin secretions, and dander. Therefore, a dog that sheds less, distributes less dander and should cause less of an allergic reaction. Although some breeders and owners describe the Poodle as being hypoallergenic, they do still cause an allergic reaction, so they are not truly hypoallergenic, but they are as close as you can expect to get. The Rottle is likely to adopt a similarly low-shedding coat. Poodles and Rottweilers both hail from Germany. Most people believe that the Poodle is French and the Rottweiler German, but they would only be half correct. The Rottweiler is believed to be a descendant of drover dogs that were left behind by the Roman army. Their name originates from the town of Rottweil, where they were left when the Roman army abandoned the area. However, while most people believe the Poodle to be French it is the French national dog, after all , it too hails from Germany. In France, the dog is known as the duck dog. The Poodle cut is not just fashionable. It consists of various puffs and pompoms, although there are several exact fashions and styles that dictate where the shocks of hair should be found. While they are common in exhibitions and shows, the cut was functional before it was fashionable. A full coat would have left a Poodle hampered by its hair, and a wet coat would have weighed the dog down when he was busy retrieving birds from rivers and other bodies of water. Cutting all of the hair down would have left the Poodle vulnerable to the cold and wet. The Poodle cut was introduced as a means of enjoying the best of both worlds. They can be very easily trained, but they can also become destructive if they do not get enough stimulation. Training should start at an early age, along with socialization, to prevent destructive and antisocial behavior. Are These Dogs Good for Families? He will bond closely with all human family members, including adults and children. He will usually be well behaved around children, especially if those children are old enough and willing to play. Parents should always supervise time between dogs and very small children. As understanding as the Rottle might be, toddlers tend to grab tails, faces, and other parts of the dog. It is also worth noting that the breed can become protective of their humans. Early and ongoing socialization will help to combat this problem. With that said, if you introduce your Rottle to your other dogs when they are young, they may benefit from having a canine companion to play with. Always introduce any dog slowly and patiently, especially to cats. He will get along with human family members and can be introduced steadily and calmly to other animals, but he may not be the ideal pet for your home. Consider the following factors when deciding whether this breed is the perfect addition to your family unit. You can feed dry or wet food. Many owners prefer dry food because it is easier to store, will keep longer, and will usually work out cheaper. Wet food helps ensure that your dog stays hydrated and may prove more appealing to your dog, however. You can feed a combination of wet and dry food, but whatever type of food you opt for, ensure that you do not overfeed your Rottie Poo. This breed is prone to overfeeding and can put weight on very easily, thanks to his Rottweiler parent breed. Once a dog is overweight, it can be very difficult to shed the extra pounds. This means that your hybrid dog is going to need a lot of exercise each day, and you should be willing to provide a minimum of one hour. Although the Poodle will enjoy running and swimming, the Rottweiler is happy walking, and it will depend on which of the parent breeds is dominant in your dog, as to whether you will be able to slip a lead on and go for a vigorous walk, or whether you need to find some way of burning off even more energy. This crossbreed is known for being intelligent and energetic, which is the ideal combination for canine sports like agility. Fortunately, the Rottle is eager to please his owners and he is very intelligent. They are also driven by their desire for food and treats. If you do use treats as a method of reward-based training, ensure that you take these into account when determining the daily food intake for your dog. Socialization is also important to this breed, and puppy classes can help introduce your dog to new people and new animals. You should also walk them to new places so that they meet different groups of people and are confronted by unique situations. This not only teaches them how to act in those situations but shows them that new things do not need to be feared. They will shed, but not as profusely as breeds like Golden Retrievers. Brush every week to remove dead hairs. You will also have to take responsibility for dental hygiene and claw clipping. Claw clipping is another activity that you should start when your dog is young. Look for signs of the following and seek veterinary guidance, if your dog starts to show symptoms: Minor Conditions. Rottweiler mixed with Poodle Poodle Poodles come in three size varieties: Standards at the shoulder should be more than 15 inches tall; miniatures should be 15 inches or less; toys should not be more than 10 inches tall. All three types have the same structure and proportions. Origin of the breed is still debated, with a significant controversy whether the puddle comes from Germany as a water dog or from the French Barbet. Ranked second most intelligent dog breed just behind the Border Collie, the poodle is talented in many dog sports and activities, including agility, obedience, herding tracking, circus performers, and support dogs. Poodles took top honours in many shows of conformation. If they are not physically and mentally stimulated, bored poodles can become destructive. But active owners who can meet the needs of the Poodle will find a loving, smart, trainable and loyal companion to the family. The Rottweiler The RottweilerIt is a domestic dog breed, considered to be medium to large or large. In German, the dogs are also called Rottweiler Metzgerhund. It means the dogs of Rottweiler butchers since their primary use was to store livestock and to sell carts laden with butchered food. Now also Rottweilers are used as search and rescue dogs, guard dogs, and police dogs. They have a very intimidating appearance for Rottweilers. They are tall and have an attractive short hair coat. These canines are predominantly black hair in most instances. Brown and white accents, though, are quite popular. These have long floppy ears, big heads, and a wide jaw as well. Such medium-sized dogs are well-built and sturdy with a slightly rounded head, floppy ears, small, oval-shaped eyes, a black nose, and a flat muzzle. The gentle and cheerful breed is known to engage in several activities like protecting, agility and obedience, and is renowned for its diverse talents. Although the breed is often considered to be a guard dog, it originated as a herding breed, bringing cattle to the market. The Rottweiler began to lose popularity when locomotives became the preferred way to move animals. Nevertheless, like police, military, and guard dogs, their protective instincts quickly made them famous again. Features of Rottles Temperament and Personality The Rottle Rottweiler mixed with poodle shows a lot of loyalty and devotion to the members of his family, being very protective of them. This breed requires a lot of outdoor activities with the instincts of a working and hunting dog running in its DNA. The calm, playful and affectionate disposition makes it a perfect companion for both adults and children alike. It displays a cold and cautious nature when encountering strangers, often warning the owners in the presence of the intruder by letting out a bark. Exercise Because the Rottle poodle mixed with Rottweilers is high in energy, enough outdoor activities such as a long walk or running games will be required. Indeed, gaining weight is likely to be quite easy, so adequate physical exercise helps to keep it physically and mentally fit. Grooming Although the Rottweiler mixed with poodle it is a minimum shedder, it is crucial to brush those with a single coat frequently. That is thick and curly like that of a poodle to stop the shed hair from being caught in the curls. Bathe your dog regularly and, from time to time, wash your ears and eyes to prevent infection. Ears will also require regular cleaning to avoid wax accumulation that can lead to a painful disease of the eye. Toenails may need clipping to keep up with their oral health if they overgrow, teeth brushing two or three times a week. Rottle can be groomed appropriately at home or by the family. Health Conditions The Rottweiler Poodle mix aka Rottie poo is a safe breed with no known genetic disorders. It is likely to inherit some of the diseases that their parents have experienced, such as hip dysplasia, diabetes, hypothyroidism, patellar luxation, and volvulus gastric dilation. The Rottie Poo has a possible lifetime of 8 to 12 years, but an average of about ten years appears to be close to the middle. Primary health conditions can shorten the lifespan of an individual dog. Although here at Mississippi Rottweilers we try to breed the top German and European bloodlines in the world there is always a slight chance especially if the new owner neglects basic health rules that your puppy could one day get Hip dysplasia. We recommend that you feed your new puppy a balanced healthy puppy food and keep the dog a safe weight. Doing this will help prevent dysplasia in your Rottweiler Occasional tests. Life Span Did You Know? They are also sometimes called a Rottle. Rottie-Poos are intelligent, powerful, and loyal dogs that are devoted to their families and are protective of them. Rottles are also energetic, loving, and playful. Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, this mix is recognized by other notable dog organizations. Rottie-Poos make great family companions and tend to have a sweet nature. As long as they have been properly socialized, they are well-mannered and get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Because of their protective nature, they can remain initially wary of strangers. They can also be prone to barking. So, you will want to start to train your dog to stop barking early on to keep it from becoming a nuisance behavior. A Rottle is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They tend to do better in homes with fenced yards where they can run. In some cases, they can adapt to apartment living. But, their large size and exercise needs can make that difficult. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to the extremes and particularly sensitive to heat. Rottie-Poos also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time as they bond closely with their families and also get bored easily. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? They can be at times, but it is definitely not a guarantee. A mixed-breed dog could inherit none of the health conditions common to their parent breeds. At the same time, they could also inherit all of them or any combination of them. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues on to puppies. So, make sure you are asking them about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. As a large, barrel-chested dog breed, the Rottie-Poo, like their parents, are at risk for developing bloat. Bloat in dogs can sometimes just be gas, but it could also end up in gastric torsion where the stomach flips. Rottles are highly trainable dogs. They are intelligent and eager to please, which means they pick up on things quickly. They do require a confident owner who can clearly and consistently communicate boundaries and expectations during training. This can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, so puppy training classes are recommended. These classes are a good idea anyway because they reinforce training, offer opportunities for socialization, and also strengthen the bond you have with your puppy. They could inherit similar to one of their parents or a combination of both. If they end up with a Rottweiler coat, they will shed a bit year-round, need weekly brushing, and bathed occasionally. Daily brushing is required to remove tangles and prevent mats and grooming is required every weeks. If they end up with a combination coat, you may get some shedding here and there. Depending on the length of their coat and the curl, you may need to brush them every day or you might be able to get away with brushing them a couple of times a week. They may also need grooming every weeks or so. When it comes to dental care for dogs , daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste is ideal for helping to prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Rottie-Poos can range from a moderate to high energy level. This means they require daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity to be happy and healthy. With a working dog background, they also need a job to do. Generally, they will be up for more activity if you are. Also, Rottles are athletic dogs. So, once puppies finish growing and their bones are done developing, you can try a bunch of different activities to see what you and your Rottle like the most. A fully-grown Rottie-Poo usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Rottie-Poo generally lives for years. Featured Rottie-Poo Article. But, this mix may be wary and reserved with strangers. Around its family, this dog is often playful, affectionate, and silly. They are also very loyal to their family and may act as a guardian towards the family, especially kids. The Rottle can be very cuddly and may try to act like a lap dog. However, this mix should never be left alone with children due to their size and clumsiness. The Rottweiler Poodle mix does not typically enjoy being alone, but is not usually prone to separation anxiety. The Rottweiler parent is known for its protective instincts. Socialization as a puppy is vital to ensure your Rottle grows into the best personality possible. This will help to minimise the risk of aggression when your puppy grows older. Training and Exercise The Rottie Doodle is immensely trainable and eager to please, but may have a stubborn streak. These work by rewarding the behaviors you want to see, rather than coming into conflict with your furry friend. The Rottle is a mix of two athletic breeds, so daily exercise is essential. Swimming is often a favorite pastime of Rottweiler Standard Poodle mixes. They also enjoy long walks, hikes, or jobs with their favorite people. Retrieval games can also be a fun way to stay fit. The Rottweiler Poodle mix tends to excel at canine sports like agility, tracking, and obedience, which can be excellent opportunities to exercise thebody and mind. Although the Rottle will enjoy a cuddle, they need to burn off those high energy levels first. Rottle Health and Care The Rottie Poo has a potential lifespan of 8 to 12 years, but the average tends to be close to the middle, around 10 years. They have the potential to inherit health conditions from either of their parent breeds. We recommend the Rottweiler parent has good hip scores, is PRA clear, has had a recent eye check and no family history of heart problems. Shelter Dogs As this mixed breed gains popularity, older Rottles in need of loving homes will become more common. Rescue dogs are usually cheaper than puppies, and many already have basic training and socialization. But, you may be able to find a Rottle in a rescue center for the parent breeds. Scroll to the end of this article for some links that will help you start your search. Rottle Puppies The first step to raising a healthy Rottle dog is choosing from healthy Rottle puppies. Healthy Rottle puppies come from healthy parents. OFA recommends that, before breeding, Rottweilers are tested for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, vision problems, and cardiac problems. Poodles should be tested for hip dysplasia, vision problems, cardiac problems, and thyroid problems. Any ethical breeder can provide you with the results of these tests, but the results should be registered with a canine health registry like the OFA as well. Parents should be at least two years old for these tests to be accurate, as well as for the best odds of producing healthy babies. Because of the size difference in the Rottweiler and Poodle, the mother should be the Rottweiler, as birthing overly large pups can be dangerous for a Standard Poodle. The breeder should allow you to meet the mother as well as any puppies in the litter that are still present. They should all appear happy and healthy. You should also be able to get information about the father and the breeder who owns him. All dogs owned by the breeder should be working animals or beloved pets, and not simply treated as business assets. As designer breeds are becoming more popular, their prices are rising. However, this will vary depending on the breeder, your location, demand for puppies, and more. A lower cost can be an indicator of a puppy mill. Because the Rottweiler parent is big, muscular, and courageous, many people assume that the Rottle is also self-assured, ferocious, aloof, aggressive, and confident. However, the Poodle genes also impart a sweet softness to the Rottle, making it one of the most popular hybrid dog breeds today. Do you want to know more about the Roodle and whether it is a good fit for your household? Then read on, we have all the information you need. What Two Breeds Make a Rottle? The Rottle is a beautiful and wonderful hybrid dog obtained by breeding a Standard or Miniature Poodle with a Rottweiler. Also known as Roodle, Rottiedoodle, or Rottie-Poo, Rottles combine the loyal, affectionate, and calm nature of Rottweilers with the intelligence of a Poodle. Rottweilers date back to the Roman Empire. Today, they are primarily known for their guarding skills but originally, they were bred to be drover dogs to accompany cattle and keep a watch on the livestock. Some experts believe that it is from Germany while others think it might have originated in France. Today, there is little doubt that the breed is one of the smartest and most trainable dog breeds in the world. Origins of The Rotti-Poo No one can pinpoint the exact origins of the Roodle hybrid dog, although, we can safely assume that it is a relatively new designer dog breed. The concept of designer dogs first came into existence during the s. One of the first crossbreeds — a Labradoodle — was developed in the late s and became immensely popular due to its high trainability and hypoallergenic fur. By the mids, people were looking for even more variety in Doodle breeds designer dogs having one Poodle parent. One such mix was the Rottle. Rottles do not have fixed standards as far as their physical attributes are concerned. Naturally, you could have many variations in the breeding programs: crossing a purebred Rottweiler with a purebred Mini or Standard Poodle, crossing a Rottle back to a Poodle, or breeding two Rottles, and so on. As a result, a Rottle puppy could reach a height of anywhere between 10 and 27 inches 25 to .Some Rottiepoos develop the muscular structure of the Rottweiler parent but others might be leaner like the Poodle parent. Just as there are variations in the height and weight of a Rottle, there can be many coat variations in Rottiepoos. Your Roodle puppy could develop a straight and medium-length coat like the Rottweiler parent or a curly, tight, or wavy hypoallergenic coat like the Poodle. Coat colours commonly seen in the Rottle are brown, black, phantom and tan, red, grey, white, and blue. Some Rottiepoos also develop the rust markings seen in Rottweilers known as phantom colouring. For a Roodle to inherit the tan points of the Rottweiler, the poodle parents must also carry to phantom colouring. Is a Rottle Hypoallergenic? Rottles may or may not be hypoallergenic. The best Roodle breeders will DNA test their breeding dogs to determine the coat traits they carry. Through DNA testing it is possible to only breed with poodle parents who carry two furnishing genes, no improper coat or shedding genes. This would make the resulting puppies very low to non-shedding. The chances of getting a hypoallergenic Rottle will increase if a breeder develops puppies by crossing a Rottle back to a Poodle. This is because there will be a larger Poodle gene pool to consider. This is due to the pet dander that causes allergy in the first place. Do Rottles Need Grooming? Every dog needs grooming. If your pet takes after its Poodle parent, it may even need special haircuts every 6 weeks or so and regular combing to prevent matting. Temperament of Rottles Rottles are protective, loyal, sweet, loving, and faithful dogs. They are a bundle of energy, especially when they are young — so do watch out, they tend to be very mischievous! Even if your Roodle is muscular, it should not be aggressive. Sure, you might want your Rottle dog to guard your property, but aggressive behaviour like biting and snarling warrants contacting a dog behaviourist to help train your dog. Well-bred Roodles are generally sweet-natured dogs with exceptional trainability, solid handler focus, and biddable, social temperament. They are perfect for families with slightly older children and anyone who needs a companion guard dog. Therefore, it is very important to buy your Rottle puppy from a reputable breeder. Good breeders will use only dogs with sound temperaments in their breeding programs. You can also ask to meet the dam and sire prior to buying the puppy. That way, you can ensure that the Rottweiler and Poodle parents or Rottle parents in the case of F2 Roodles are of sound and sociable temperaments as well. Rottiepoos need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Without these, your Rottie-Poo could misbehave including displaying destructive tendencies. You can always divide this into two or three shorter walks. Roodles can be good family dogs when they are well trained and socialised with kids from a young age. Standard-size Rottie-poos those from a Standard Poodle parent can be large, strong dogs and could unintentionally knock over small children during play. Are Rottles Good Guard Dogs? Some Rottles inherit the traits of a Rottweiler that make it a good guard dog. A successful guard dog needs to listen well and think fast. It should also be medium to large sized since small Roodles may not seem intimidating to intruders. Ideally, guard Rottles should have a lot of energy. Some dog handlers believe that female Rottles make better guard dogs due to their maternal instincts. Male Rottie-Poos, on the other hand, might be better off watching over the property as it is in their nature to be possessive about their territory. How Much Does a Roodle Cost? Some breeders may even charge more, depending on the efforts they have put into the breeding program. It is very important to know if you can afford a Rottle financially before bringing one home. If you want to save some money, you could consider adopting a Rottle. Contact animal rescue homes to see if they have a Roodle available. What to Feed a Rottle? Feed your Rottle a high-quality dog food containing nutrients that promote musculoskeletal health. This is especially necessary for large-sized Roodles as they are prone to musculoskeletal issues more than smaller dogs. If your Rottle is of a smaller size, then feed it a premium grain-free kibble that is appropriate for its small jaws. Some Roodles are known to have sensitive digestion, in which case, you may want to want to consult with a vet nutritionist about the right dog food to feed. Most dog owners prefer feeding dry dog food or kibble to their dogs. This is because of its convenience and longer shelf life. Wet or canned food is also a good choice owing to its higher moisture content. BARF or raw diet is another good option for Roodles. The raw meaty bone component of raw dog feeding will keep your Rottie-poo stimulated, content and their teeth sparkly clean. However, you must always consult a vet nutritionist before making any drastic dietary changes. Health Issues in Rottles Roodles from the best breeders are generally quite healthy. However, from time to time, health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia are known to crop up in the breed. Dysplasia is a congenital condition and can be prevented through good breeding practices. Larger Roodles could also develop issues like Osteochondritis dissecans OD and heart issues. With proper diet and overall care, Rottles could live for almost years. The Roodle is a fairly rare designer dog breed in Australia. Subscribe for poodle mix breed information and exclusive offers on the best products for your pup! Leave this field empty if you're human: Share this.

German Shepard Labrador Mix dogs, or Shepradors, are currently among the most popular dog breeds. This is not a surprise, as this designer breed is the offspring of two amazing pedigrees. This is also a match made in heaven, as both German Shepherds and Labradors share the same size and temperament. German Shepherds differ in their narrow breeding for several generations. Their looks, strength, and massive size were the main attributes for breeders. This caused some inadvertent health issues for the GSDs. Their origins are varied and rich. This openness provided them with stronger genes. Their main characteristics remained untarnished though. Their crossbreeding seems to produce the best of both worlds. Mixed breeds could face some temperamental issues when their parents have different sizes or opposing personalities. Shepradors are smart, sociable, and quite clever. They need to spend their energies on non-stop physical activities, and they appreciate doing brainy stuff. Therefore, you should feed them high-quality food to sustain this size. Click to get it NOW! They need serious amounts of training, exercise, and fooling around. This requires a balanced diet and a proportional quantity of calories to keep up. Labradors and their derivatives are thus prone to obesity. Brainy Food for Smarter Dogs Shepradors are also clever dogs. Boost Their Immunity with Antioxidants German Shepherds and Labradors are unfortunately prone to passing on some congenital diseases. To protect the Shepradors from these possibilities, you should include a healthy amount of antioxidants in their food. They do however usually have interesting colors and regal coats. As such, they need large amounts of food that go with their massive built. The recommended amount of dry food per day could be as much as 3. Adjust the quantity according to the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Offering food twice a day should be sufficient. This should keep it from eating too quickly, which could upset its stomach. Conclusion Now we get to the part where we reveal the best dog food for German Shepherd lab mix dogs. This is definitely a tough choice! Our top pick dog food for GSD and lab mixes. .This means owners of dogs with skin problems have a minimalist meal ready for their sensitive pups. With its carefully chosen ingredients, which support digestive health and promote a lustrous coat, the Wellness Simple Salmon and Potato Recipe focuses on quality and minimalism. Along with natural probiotics, antioxidants, omega fatty acids, glucosamine, and taurine, your dog will love the tasty fish flavor. Created to encourage whole-body health by supporting digestive function and promoting a healthy coat and skin, the ingredients may reduce itching and scratching due to food intolerances or sensitivities. Pros Limited-ingredient, grain-free formula: Ideal for dogs with skin allergies, ensuring no unnecessary additives. Single-source protein: Promotes easy digestion and minimizes potential allergens. Supports skin and coat health: Encourages a shiny, itch-free coat, a crucial benefit for dogs with allergies Made in the USA: Ensures product quality and safety. Cons Limited flavor options: May not suit dogs with specific taste preferences. Premium price point: Reflects the quality, but might not fit all budgets. This means dogs can relish a tasty meal without the concern of triggering allergies, making it simpler for them to enjoy a comfortable and itch-free life. Natural Balance L. The extra-large kibble is a wholesome delight for discerning doggies who like a crunchy texture to their meals. Each bite is bursting with the goodness of real lamb and brown rice, ensuring robust muscles and a happy tummy. Pros Quality Ingredients: Packed with real lamb and fiber-rich brown rice for strong muscles and digestion. Simplicity Matters: Features premium ingredients, a single protein source, and zero soy, gluten, artificial additives. Sensitive-Friendly: Ideal for pups with stomach issues, skin sensitivities, and allergies. Clean and Natural: Absolutely no fillers or artificial components. Cons Limited Flavors: Offers fewer flavor options compared to some competitors. Kibble Size: Larger kibble might not suit dogs who prefer smaller pieces. What truly sets this dog food apart is its dedication to promoting skin and coat health. With vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids in the mix, it leaves your pup with a lustrous coat and moisturized skin. Treat your beloved pet to a wag-nificent meal that not only satisfies their cravings but also takes care of their well-being. Pros Nutrient-Rich Formula: Crafted with nourishing prebiotic fiber beet pulp for digestive health. Optimal Digestibility: Highly digestible, ensuring nutrient absorption. Vet-Recommended: Endorsed by veterinarians. Limited Dietary Flexibility: May not suit dogs with specific dietary restrictions. Larger Kibble: May not suit smaller sized German Shepherds. What truly sets this product apart is its allergy-friendly nature. With absolutely no chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy, or eggs, it caters specifically to dogs with food sensitivities, giving you peace of mind that your furry companion is getting the nourishment they need without any adverse reactions. It goes the extra mile with its antioxidant-rich formula, fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. This translates to a boosted immune system and overall well-being for your beloved German Shepherd. Say goodbye to incessant scratching and hello to a happier, healthier pup with this remarkable dog food. Pros Digestive Bliss: Crafted with a single animal protein source, turkey, and gentle ingredients like potatoes, peas, and pumpkin, this dog food promotes easy digestion, perfect for sensitive tummies. No Nasty Additives: No chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives — just pure goodness in every bite. Cons Price Tag: Quality comes at a cost; it may be slightly pricier compared to some competitors. Limited Availability:May not be easily found in all local pet stores, potentially requiring online or specialized store purchases. The best thing about this product is the remarkable relief it offers to many German Shepherd with skin allergies. No more upset tummies or endless scratching battles! This remarkable formula boasts a host of benefits that make it the top pick for your best friend. Moreover, it incorporates antioxidant-rich extra virgin olive oil sourced from ancient trees, promoting overall well-being and a lustrous skin and coat. Premium Protein: With humanely-raised grass-fed lamb meal as the star ingredient, your furry friend gets a high-protein, complete diet suitable for all life stages. Olive Oil Boost: Infused with extra virgin olive oil from ancient trees, this kibble offers essential monounsaturated fatty acids, nurturing a glossy skin and coat. Cons Potential Higher Cost: May be pricier than some alternatives. As a German Shepherd owner, I think the biggest perk of this dog food is its hypoallergenic, easy-to-digest formula. It means sensitive German Shepherds can enjoy meals more worry-free. Plus, the humanely-raised grass-fed lamb meal as the main ingredient is not only high-quality but also ethically sourced. Plus, it boasts probiotics for a healthy digestive system and prebiotic fiber to nourish beneficial gut bacteria. Pros Protein Rich: Salmon as the main ingredient for a protein-rich diet. Digestive Ease: Easy digestion with oatmeal. Gut Health: Maintains a healthy digestive system with probiotics and prebiotic fiber. Dietary Restrictions: Dietary Restrictions: May not be suitable for restricted diets. This dog food goes the extra mile by incorporating GanedenBC30 probiotics, ensuring a healthy gut and boosting immunity. It eases the daily struggles of managing skin allergies, allowing your German Shepherd to enjoy a more comfortable and vibrant life. Pros Protein Powerhouse: Premium turkey as the first ingredient for strong muscles. Gut Health: GanedenBC30 probiotics support digestion and immunity. Allergy-Friendly: Ideal for sensitive dogs, free from common allergens. Cons Pricey Option: Compared to some alternatives, it can be a bit expensive. Limited Variety: Offers limited flavor options for picky eaters You know what I absolutely love about this dog food for German Shepherd puppies? The addition of GanedenBC30 probiotics promotes a thriving gut and bolsters immunity, critical for puppies prone to skin allergies. This low-carb formula is free from allergen triggers like potatoes or tapioca, making it ideal for pups with food sensitivities. Made in the USA and devoid of chicken, eggs, peas, pea protein, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives, it outshines competitors in purity and quality. Cons May Not Suit All Budgets: The premium quality of this dog food might not fit every budget, making it less accessible for some pet owners. This food is like a soothing balm for their delicate skin. No more incessant itching or discomfort — just a happy, healthy, and allergy-free fur baby. True medically diagnosed food allergy in German Shepherds is quite rare. German Shepherds can develop food allergies at any age and have a genetically higher rate of occurrence, but other factors may also contribute to their skin issues like fleas, environmental factors, or seasonal allergies — remember that food is not the only culprit. Ensure your dog is taking omega fatty acid supplements to increase their healthy skin layer and provide an extra layer of support and care. With the right game plan, the best dog food for German Shepherds with skin allergies can give your dog the relief they so desperately need. I know how much you want to help your pup feel better. Picture a future where your beloved pup is brimming with vitality, and you play a crucial role in making it happen. Get started on the path to a vibrant, allergy-free life together! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. The main downside is that while Royal Canin is the most expensive kibble on our list, it also contains several grains and byproduct ingredients. We were hoping that the price meant higher quality ingredients, but Royal Canin seems to have abandoned whole foods for vitamin and mineral additives. Pros Designed specifically for German Shepherd puppies Smaller-sized kibbles for puppy teeth Protein blend to support digestion Balanced minerals for healthy bone growth Vitamin and antioxidant blend to support young immune systems Cons Some grains and byproduct ingredients 5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Food Check Price on Amazon Blue Buffalo is a well-respected brand of dog food, and their reputation for quality is due in large part to their commitment to whole food ingredients. We love how much of the vitamins and minerals provided by this kibble come from whole foods like chicken, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Blue Buffalo does not go the quick and easy route of adding these nutrients later in the process, unlike other brands, and the finished product speaks for itself. However, German Shepherd puppies have notoriously finicky digestive systems. While being grain-free is helpful in that respect, this blend does not contain any other special formulations to support a healthy GI tract. It is extremely healthy, but also on the expensive side — so you may gamble and lose if your puppy has trouble digesting this kibble. Pros Designed for large breed puppies The first ingredient is deboned chicken Grain-free, no byproduct ingredients Vitamins and minerals are mainly provided by whole foods and complete proteins Support for bone growth, immune system, joints, and cognitive functioning Cons No modification to support a sensitive digestion 6. This chicken and brown rice puppy blend contains no byproduct ingredients, multiple lean animal proteins, and only the highest quality grains. However, this food is moderately expensive and does not specifically cater to dogs with sensitive digestive systems. Better to try a grain-free brand first and keep this option as a backup. The ingredients are all high quality, but the variety of foods in this blend leaves something to be desired. Considering that it is made almost entirely from protein, grains, and beans this brand is rather expensive. There are no whole vegetables or fruits, so many of the vitamins and minerals are provided by additives. Added vitamins are not only harder to absorb than those from whole foods, but cheaper. What gives? Most importantly, the beans may be hard for a German Shepherd puppy to digest and lead to a variety of gastrointestinal upset. While the lamb could be a nice change for your pup, we recommend testing this kibble out in small amounts to gauge suitability for your dog. Pros Designed for large breed puppies The first ingredient is deboned lamb, second is chicken meal Only high-quality, whole grains Whole foods supply joint support Cons Few whole fruits and vegetables Contains beans and peas which may upset digestion 8. But upon closer consideration, you will see why this food is not a great choice for German Shepherd puppies. Though it has good proteins, this is another brand that gets almost none of its nutrients from whole fruits or vegetables. Pros Designed for large breed puppies First ingredient is chicken meal No artificial colors or preservatives Balanced minerals to support bone growth Cons The second, third, and fourth ingredients are all grain Very few whole fruits and vegetables 9. Eukanuba Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food Check Price on Amazon The Eukanuba Large Breed puppy food is another excellent example of a food that, while technically complete and balanced, does not have the healthful ingredients to make all those nutrients available to your dog. Besides a few good foods like chicken, fish oil, and chicken meal, this kibble is chock full of cheap grains and byproducts. It contains no whole fruits or vegetables, and most of the vitamins and minerals are additives. German Shepherd puppy bellies are particularly sensitive to poor quality ingredients and additives. And though they advertise a special, easy-to-digest prebiotic blend on the package, there is no evidence anywhere else to substantiate this claim. There is no way to find out if your puppy will develop any of these conditions. All you can do is to take care of your dog properly to prevent some of these severe medical conditions. Your growing dog should maintain a healthy weight because extra weight can be an additional weight on its spine. The ideal dog nutrition will also depend on any nutritional needs of your dog. If you are training your dog, never give treats as a reward. This encourages obesity and will only cause more problems for your dog. Here are top dog food brands that your German Shepherd Lab will surely love. Its core ingredients include ground brown rice, lamb meal, white rice, and chicken. It is all natural and contains no preservatives. Even a picky puppy will surely love this dog food. Precise Holistic Complete Large Breed Adult Formula Precise Holistic contains chicken, brown rice, chicken fat, and oatmeal and is considered the best organic dog food for large dogs. This comes with extra calcium and phosphorus needed by dogs to achieve its full, large size. This is a portion of irresistible dog food for large breed dogs such as your Lab German Shepherd mix. Just like any other dog, never give your German Shepherd Lab the following human food. Not all human food is safe for dogs. Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Grapes or raisins Salty foods and junk food Chocolate, coffee, or tea Onions, chives, and garlic If you want your dog to grow strong and healthy, you need to give them the best care in the world. So, start with their nutrition! That means you need to stay away from the worst dry dog food, and try out the best dry dog food instead. Your hairy friend comes from different parents and therefore you can experiment with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Our puppy friends need nutrition that is full of proteins and easy to digest. You can look for some ideas in the best puppy food brands. Senior dogs, in their grandpa style, need food which contains moderate protein levels as in the best senior dry dog food. Because of this, you need to spend ample time in a day to exercise and to walk this dog otherwise; it can develop destructive behavior. Play with your dog regularly to develop a strong bond with your pet. Remember that this dog will love to swim because of its Labrador Retriever lineage. A local dog pool or a pond would work great with your dog. If you have a large yard, an old, large vat will work great just for him to play and cool off. All dogs love to fetch and play Frisbee. Use other kinds of toys like large ropes so you can play pulling games. Use a giant ball for fetches like an old football or a tennis ball. Here are a few ideas 1. This is available in six sizes so you will surely find the best size for your medium to large-sized Lab German Shepherd mix. It is indestructible so your dog will undoubtedly spend hours playing with it. It is made from durable materials that will never break or chip. This is indestructible, and your dog will surely love to play with this over and over again. It is soft but is made to be indestructible. Your pet will surely love to chew on this soft bone. This will be his favorite toy in no time. Lab German Shepherd Mix Training The Lab crossed with a German Shepherd is a brilliant dog, but it may need more than simple traditional training techniques to train this dog. The following tricks will help you make your dog obey you in no time. The Clicker Technique Learn how to train your dog using a clicker. Press this, and you will hear an audible click, a sound that dog loves very much. The clicker may be used in all kinds of tricks, but the most common is for positive reinforcement. Just click the clicker when your dog can follow the trick and then click again if you want to repeat the behavior. Invest in a good clicker which is available in most pet stores online. This can contribute to obesity and other health problems related to being overweight. Reward good behavior by patting your dog, playing with him or giving him a good scratch. Tell your dog what a good dog he is and combines this with a lot of pats as reinforcement. Every dog takes his time so you must be patient. His bed should at the same place where he found it the first time while his food bowls should also be in the same area. Consistency is the key to training dogs important stuff. Also, consider talking to everyone at home regarding your rules and commands to reinforce consistency in training your dog. Train Your Dog In A Familiar Environment Dogs like the Lab are easily distracted; therefore you must train your pup in a quiet and familiar environment first before you take him out for further training. Start inside a quiet room with only you and him. You can train him outdoors once he is less distracted to noise and the presence of other pets and people. You may also opt for professional training for your Lab German Shepherd mix dog if you want your pup to grow up and become a service dog or police dog. German Shepherd Lab Mix and Families Lab German Shepherds can be great family dogs because these dogs love to be with their masters and to please them every way they can. These are patient with children and will never roughhouse or bite. They can even tolerate toddlers and very intense games like dress up and role play games. Lab German Shepherd mix dogs will love to be with other pets and even other dogs. They are not domineering and will never cause a fight. The Lab German Shepherd mix may become anti-social and may become aggressive with people or other dogs when they are not introduced to people and other pets early on. Your dog should be trained first and exposed to other dogs and people to prevent this untoward behavior. This is a question that many German Shepherd owners ask, as they want to make sure their beloved furry friend is getting all the nutrients they need. The good news is that there are plenty of healthy dog food options out there for German Shepherds. You should eat foods that include high-quality animal-based protein sources like lamb, beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes. In addition, the meal should be plentiful in fats, vitamins, and minerals. Are eggs good for German Shepherds? Yes, eggs are a great source of protein for German Shepherds. In fact, they are one of the healthiest foods you can feed your dog. Eggs are packed with nutrients that are essential for a German Shepherd's diet, including vitamins A, D, and E. They also contain omega-three fatty acids, which are important for a dog's coat and skin health. What is the best food for German Shepherds with allergies? If your German Shepherd has allergies, it's important to find a hypoallergenic best dog food for German Shepherds that will not trigger their symptoms. There are many brands of hypoallergenic dog food on the market that use alternative protein sources, such as duck or venison. These foods are often grain-free as well, which is ideal for German Shepherds with allergies. What is the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs? If your German Shepherd has a sensitive stomach, you'll want to find a dog food that is easy on their digestive system. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These foods often have limited ingredient lists and use easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or potato. What is the best food for German Shepherds with joint problems? If your German Shepherd has joint problems, you'll want to find a dog food that is rich in omega-three fatty acids. These essential nutrients help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with joint problems. These foods often contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to help relieve joint pain. Now let's chat in more detail about the best dog foods for your furry friend. It is made with all natural ingredients and has no fillers or preservatives. The kibble is also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for dogs' skin and coat health. The addition of zinc proteinate and other chelated minerals to the formula is a plus, as it leads to better absorption and nutrition. We also note the inclusion of various probiotics for better digestion and salmon oil, which is beneficial to both skin and coat. Highly suggested! All of their recipes are made with whole ingredients and cooked in small batches. The meals are portioned according to your dog's weight and activity level. Wilderness is a grain-free and protein-rich product with over a dozen options and recipes, which makes it ideal for people who want to rotate their diets. It's reasonably priced, and it gets high marks from consumers. Probiotics, high-quality fiber, and digestive enzymes are included in this formula to aid your dog's digestive health. These components create mouth-watering, healthy food that will sustain your canine companion throughout the day. The foods in this recipe include multiple probiotics for improved digestion, chelated minerals for maximized absorption, and nutrient-dense food. It's inexpensive to buy as well as simple to suggest. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food Image courtesy Eagle Pack The majority of the animal protein in Adult takes the form of fresh chicken and pork meal, as confirmed by the nutritional label. The all-time classic, fully grain-inclusive design that is free of legume concentrates. Antioxidant preservatives are used in a safe and natural manner. There's no BHT or ethoxyquin. It has high animal protein levels, as well as vitamins and minerals that have been boosted through the use of freeze-dried raw pieces. It's designed to unleash your dog's potential to thrive and put the advantages of raw nutrition into every bowl, using cage-free duck as the first ingredient for powerful, lean muscles. It also contains a probiotic boost for digestive health, greater amounts of omegas for healthy skin and coat, and more antioxidants for immune health—all from the highest-quality ingredients from all over the world. This high-protein, low-carb diet is designed for sporting dogs and plush animals with rigorous exercise requirements. It's also perfect for growing pups and pregnant or nursing females. This formula has DHA to support cognitive development, as well as calcium for strong bones and teeth. Iams ProActive Health also has 22 essential vitamins and minerals to keep your puppy healthy and strong. It's nice to discover a Southwest Canyon recipe that includes natural preservatives, which implies the food does not contain any BHA, BHT, or other harmful chemicals. A major brand and a healthy all-age option for any German Shepherd. Champion Petfoods, the well-known maker of Orijen, has long promoted a meat-based "biologically appropriate" diet. This is a tried and true design that makes this particular dish an excellent choice for developing Shepherd pups. This natural dry food is developed to give complete-body nutritional support for puppies of all sizes. It's made with high-quality proteins and whole grains, all of which are complemented by omega fatty acids—such as DHA—necessary vitamins, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics. This balanced, nutritious dry dog food is intended to promote teeth and bone strength, healthy brain growth, general health, energy and vitality, optimal nutrient absorption, and healthy muscle development. It's free of GMOs, by-products from processing animals into pet food ingredients meat meal , fillers, or artificial preservatives to ensure that your dog gets the healthiest food possible. This is a tried-and-true approach that has been developed and studied for decades. It includes controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios, making it ideal for German Shepherd puppies. This large-breed dry food is made with high-quality proteins and whole grains. It's free of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives. This recipe is designed to support the health of large breed puppies with an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. It also includes DHA from fish oil for healthy brain development. This recipe includes DHA for brain development, calcium and phosphorus for bone growth, and antioxidants to support the immune system. It's also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. You can feed your dog either dry or wet food, and he may sample two distinct flavor profiles: rice and oatmeal for salmon. Because it contains no allergens like wheat, corn, or soy, there's less of a chance that your dog will suffer an upset stomach. It also includes omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which help to promote skin, coat, and joint health. Image courtesy Blue Buffalo If you're searching for high-quality, all-natural wet dog food, Blue Buffalo Wilderness is a wonderful alternative. This dog food is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for an entourage diet. It's made with real beef and chicken, can be served as a delicious treat, or blended into your dog's regular dry food. The Blue Buffalo puppy food contains no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives; making it a healthy choice for your dog. All dishes are prepared in collaboration with veterinarians and come in a variety of delicious flavors, including beef, lamb, and turkey. All of the meats are imported from the United States, although only lamb comes from Australia. It's also gluten-free, so if you're allergic to grains, you'll be safe. There is a large selection of carbohydrates, which are mostly in the form of potatoes, and there are numerous healthy vegetables and superfoods including lentils, peas, salmon oil, and flaxseed. It's made with real meat, vegetables, and fruit. This recipe is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's also high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It's made with real beef, vegetables, and fruit. It also contains sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, and flaxseed. This formula provides your German Shepherd puppy with the high protein diet they need for proper development and growth. Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular brands among dog food reviewers. It's included as our last on this list but has ranked high among some of the best dog foods for German Shepherds because it's high in protein and free of grains. What foods are German Shepherds allergic to? German Shepherds are known to be allergic to a variety of things, including wheat, corn, soy, and even some meats. If you're not sure what your German Shepherd is allergic to, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to recommend the best food for your dog based on their specific allergies. If your German Shepherd is having any sort of adverse reaction to their food, such as scratching, biting, or licking themselves excessively, then they may be allergic to something in their food. Consult with your veterinarian if you're not sure what's causing the reaction. What is the best dog food for German Shephard puppies? Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so it's important to find a food that's specifically designed for puppies. Look for a food that has high levels of protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Puppies also need more calories than adult dogs, so make sure the food you choose has a high calorie content. As your puppy grows, they will need less calories and protein, so you'll need to switch to a food that's designed for adult dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your German Shepherd puppy. What is the best food for an adult German Shepherd? The best food for an adult German Shepherd is a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed of dog is known for its high energy levels and need for exercise, so a food that can help them maintain their energy levels is important. A diet that is too low in calories can cause your German Shepherd to become overweight or obese, which can lead to health problems. When choosing a food for your German Shepherd, it is important to read the label carefully and choose a food that is right for their age, weight, and activity level. Can a German Shepherd drink milk? Yes, German Shepherds can drink milk. Milk is a good source of calcium and other nutrients that are important for this breed of dog. However, it is important to choose a low-fat or skim milk to avoid adding unnecessary calories to their diet. What is the best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy? The best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy is to start them on a diet that is high in protein and fat. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, so it is important to choose a food that will give them the nutrition they need without making them overweight. As your German Shepherd puppy grows, you can slowly transition them to an adult dog food. It is important to make sure that they are getting the right amount of calories and nutrients for their age, weight, and activity level. What are some common health problems German Shepherds face? Some common health problems German Shepherds face include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. This breed of dog is also susceptible to obesity, so it is important to choose a food that will help them maintain a healthy weight. German Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, so a food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is important for this breed of dog. What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd? The life expectancy of a German Shepherd is between nine and thirteen years. This breed of dog is known for being a healthy and hardy breed, but there are some health problems that can shorten their lifespan. It is important to feed your German Shepherd a diet that will help them maintain their health and keep them at a healthy weight to help ensure a long and happy life. Is it OK to put a raw egg in dog food? The answer is complicated. While some experts believe that raw eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, others believe that they can be dangerous. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. If you decide to feed your dog raw eggs, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the eggs are fresh. Second, only feed your dog eggs that have been properly refrigerated. Finally, don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs. If you're still not sure whether or not to feed your dog raw eggs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you make the best decision for your pet. What are the benefits of raw eggs for dogs? There are a few potential benefits of feeding raw eggs to dogs. Some people believe that raw eggs can help increase a dog's energy levels, improve their coat, and even help with joint pain. While there is some anecdotal evidence to support these claims, there is no scientific evidence that raw eggs offer any health benefits for dogs. Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Dog Food Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet's health and well-being. With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your furry friend. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision, we have established a set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and the specific nutritional needs of dogs. Ingredients Quality: High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish, to support your dog's muscle development and overall health. Whole Grains and Vegetables: Whole grains and vegetables should be included to provide essential carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Absence of Fillers and Artificial Additives: No Fillers: The best dog food should not contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which offer limited nutritional value and may cause allergies. No Artificial Additives: It should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can harm your dog's health over time. Meat Meal vs. Whole Meat: Preference for Whole Meat: Whole meat sources are preferred over meat meals or by-products, as they are less processed and retain more nutritional value. Digestibility and Allergen Consideration: Hypoallergenic Options: For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens like poultry or grains should be available. High Digestibility: The dog food should be highly digestible to ensure your pet absorbs the maximum nutrients from each meal. Life Stage Appropriateness: Age and Size-Specific Formulations: The best dog food should offer formulations tailored to your dog's life stage puppy, adult, senior and size small, medium, large. Transparency and Sourcing: Transparent Labeling: Brands should provide transparent information about ingredient sourcing and processing methods. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: A commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients reflects a brand's responsibility toward animal welfare and the environment. Health Benefits and Special Considerations: Support for Special Health Needs: The best dog food may offer formulations to address specific health concerns, such as joint health, dental care, or weight management. Customer Feedback and Reviews: Positive User Experiences: Customer feedback and reviews are valuable indicators of a product's performance, safety, and palatability. Price and Value: Affordability: The cost of the dog food should be reasonable and commensurate with its quality and ingredients, offering good value for pet owners. Recall History and Safety: Safety Record: Brands with a history of recalls or safety issues should be viewed with caution, as the safety of your pet is paramount. But with our list of the 25 best dog foods for German Shepherds in , you can rest assured that you're giving your furry friend the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. When choosing dog food, consider factors such as your dog's age, size, activity level, any allergies or sensitivities, and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. What is the difference between dry and wet dog food? Dry dog food kibble is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Wet dog food contains more moisture and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Some owners choose to feed a combination for variety. Is homemade dog food a good option? Homemade dog food can be an option but requires careful research and balance to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. How can I tell if a dog food is of high quality? Look for high-quality protein sources, whole grains and vegetables, minimal fillers and additives, and adherence to AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Checking customer reviews and consulting experts can also help. Should I choose a dog food based on my dog's breed? While some breed-specific formulas exist, it's more important to consider your dog's individual needs, age, and size when selecting dog food. What should I do if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities? If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consult your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods. Is grain-free dog food a better choice? Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily better. While some dogs may benefit from grain-free options, it's essential to ensure the food still provides balanced nutrition, as some grain-free diets have been associated with certain health issues. How often should I feed my dog, and in what portion sizes? Feeding frequency and portion sizes depend on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent meals. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust based on your dog's needs. Can I mix different brands or types of dog food? Mixing different brands or types of dog food can be done, but it should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best way to transition your dog to a new diet. Should I be concerned about recalls when choosing dog food? Yes, it's important to stay informed about recalls. Check the FDA and manufacturer websites regularly for recall information. Brands with a history of recalls may be worth avoiding. What is the role of my veterinarian in selecting dog food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food based on your pet's specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. How can I ensure my dog stays hydrated when feeding dry dog food? Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Wetting the dry food or incorporating wet food into the diet can also increase moisture intake. Can I give my dog human food as part of their diet? While some human foods are safe for dogs, it's essential to know which ones are and to avoid potentially toxic foods. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding human food to your dog's diet. Remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and open communication about your dog's diet are key to ensuring their health and well-being. Related Content.

I grew up with boxers as my grandmother was an avid lover of the breed and had a lucrative breeding and showing program. While she is no longer with us, I continue her legacy and continue to use her kennel name MerBar Boxers. Each one of my puppies is raised in my home with my children and other pets. I make sure each puppy is loved and has great social skills. I like to give each baby an abundance of attention! All of my dogs are health tested to ensure you get a puppy that will be with you for years to come. I am happy to explain our health tests, what they mean, and why they are important. I will make myself available for any questions or concerns. If you are considering a breeding program I will mentor you on all the appropriate health testing, as well as making sure I fit you with the right puppy. If I do not have what you're looking for I am happy to refer you to my network of breeder friends to ensure you get the right puppy. I know that sometimes situations arise that are out of your control. Rest assured that you have options and I will work with you to resolve any issues. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Click here to add your own text and edit me. Welcome to the Sergeant's Boxers website! Thank you for stopping by! We are Cassie and Luke! First off, Boxers are the absolute best family members imaginable. Luke and I gained our first boxer family member in .From the very beginning, we were hooked! We then gained our newest addition, Diva and boy does her name fit her well! We were overjoyed with our family fur-members and wanted to provide joy to other families. That is when we decided we wanted to breed Boxers and bring love and happiness to other families, just as our Boxers brought love and happiness into ours. Our family continued to grow, as did our happiness and joy! We now have 8 boxers and one spayed boxer mix. All are our fur-kids come first and foremost! Diva and Sergeant had their first litter in .Since then, we have learned so much about the breed and about producing healthy puppies. A lot of thought and research goes into each and every breeding. In the early part of , we started showing. This was such a new experience for us, but we enjoyed it so very much! Bailey was our first girl to show and she had a blast! Her face would light up when trotting around the ring. She obtained her International and National Champion Title that weekend and we were so very proud of her! Remington and Diva were a little hesitant at first, but ended up doing very well by the end of the weekend. By the 4th run, they were so excited to get out there and perform! They ran their hearts out and smiled while doing so. It also helped that daddy was there the second day and waiting at the finish line for them : Captain and Benelli went to their first show in June of .Benelli was just 3 months old and competed in the baby class. She did so very well! She gained great ratings that first day and caught the eyes of everyone there! Captain also did very well! He strutted around the ring and smiled the entire time! It was not hard to see that this was something he enjoyed so very much! We couldn't wait to get them back out there for the next show! In September of , we went to 2 shows! The first show was a UKC show. Captain and Bailey competed and had a blast. Captain obtained his UKC Champion. Bailey obtained all of the points needed and is now only waiting for her competition wins. We cant wait to call her a UKC Champion too! Captain gained his National, International and Honors Ch. At only 3 months old, Dawn made it to Best of Show during this show! It is the best feeling in the world to see the smiles on their faces and their eyes lighting up! They all had a blast! Captain obtained his Honors Bronze Champion Title. Both girls did well. They both won first in each of their classes and Dawn won Reserve Best of Breed in all four shows. We were unable to attend due to puppies being at home, but didnt want the girls to miss out on a great weekend of showing! Dawn got first in class for all three shows. Benelli got first in class all three shows. Benelli also got Reserve Best Female in two show and Best female in one show. For being at a show without mama and dad, the girls did so good! Im so proud of them and a special thanks to Angie for talking the girls! We look forward to the upcoming shows and we are so very excited!! Benelli gained another competition win and many points to add towards obtaining her UKC Champion Title! I have no doubt she will obtain the rest of the needed points and competition win needed to obtain her title soon! The girls did great, even with the judges all wearing masks! We can not wait until the next show!! This was Sergeant's first show and he surprised us all!! We had a blast! Results will be posted in each of their files. Sergeant, Harley, Captain and Dawn participated and did very well! Captain even made it to the Best of Show on Sunday! Dawn and Remi did absolutely wonderful! Harley struggled a bit. She wanted to catch the line instead of the lure! Anyways, they all had a great time and we will certainly be back for more! Harley and Captain got to attend the Norman show! Harley won Reserve Ch x3 shows. Captain and our friend Junior handler Alicia Hood won x1 best Junior class! They both did great! Can't wait until the next show! Remi also came out to the show for her very first time! Dawn and Harley also attended and both did well. Captain, of course, tagged along too! Results will be posted once they are posted on UKC site, as I completely forgot to write down results while at the show! Such an exciting sport. Watching them be so excited to chase the lure is absolutely fun times!! We traveled all of the way there to be a part of this amazing show! We earned a total of 9 titles in both Dock Jumping and Precision Coursing! Harley showed in a couple of shows there, but did not place she was too busy worrying about diving and Captain got to strut around in the TOP 10 Boxer ring! Huge Congratulations to these girls!! Information to come! This means that for every litter, Sergeants Boxers will go down the list and offer puppies to the families in order of deposits received. The family may choose a puppy from the current litter or may pass to wait for a later litter. Even if the family initially expressed the desire for a puppy from a future litter early in the conversation, they will still be asked if they would like to select a puppy when the current litter selections start. Selections start at each litter's 6 weeks of age mark. This allows the families to not only pick from color, but also from personality. Please know that these can change at any time and are only listed for reference. This is non-negotiable.

It all started when we became empty-nesters and purchased our first lab, since then our Lab family has continued to grow. We strive to breed for great all around family Labradors that are healthy, calm, intelligent, and are of the beautiful English type Labs stocky bodies, square, blocky heads. We're happy to answer any questions you may have. Thanks for visiting! Healthy Parents We welcome litters a year with the goal of producing healthy family dogs, all purpose Labradors placed in loving homes. We strive for good temperament, structurally sound, intelligence and to improve the breed. Our Labs are sweet, intelligent, easily trained, and so eager to please. Our Labrador Retrievers have superior pedigrees with champion bloodlines from traditional English lines. We do recommended Genetic health testing. The puppies are also dewormed at recommended times. We keep puppies until 8 weeks of age. Labs take 2 to 3 years to develop mentally and physically, training is an important part of the development of your Lab. We strongly recommend you locate a Beginner puppy class, enroll and take several classes. Labs are very intelligent and require socializing, training and exercise. Labs do not socialize themselves. Commitment to the welfare of your dog is extremely important. This puppy will be with you the next years. It's important our puppies are placed in homes where they receive the type of care Lab puppies need. Striving for excellent quality with emphasis on temperament, conformation, intelligence and all around health. Our dogs come from top pedigree, filled with champion lines. Our goal is to produce calm, intelligent "English" Labradors who will provide wonderful companions to you and your family. We are a small kennel, located outside of Alliance, Ohio and believe in producing the utmost quality in our pups. Therefore, we are able to make sure all of our breeding stock and pups receive lots of attention and care. We believe that Labs are at their best when they are in the companionship of people, and where they have freedom to run and play. We take great pride in the quality of the pups we produce emphasizing temperament, conformation and all around health. Our dogs have great pedigrees, filled with champions, from traditional English lines. Our pups are in homes throughout the United States and have proven to be accomplished service dogs, therapy dogs, hunters and companions to many families. You can see many, many years of our dogs, growing from pups to seniors, as well as testimonials from puppy families, on our Facebook page at Maple Creek Labradors. Our Labradors are the 'English' type, meaning they have a square or 'blocky' head, a well muscled body and thick bone. Their soft, kind expression make them instantly lovable. They are not separate color genes. We do not breed dilutes, nor do we support them.

He is healthy with regular wellness checks. He is a flat back shepherd, which has less risk for hip dysplasia. All recommended care has been provided to support joints, such as carrying him up and down stairs when he was small. He has been in foster care since May due to the relocation to a small apartment by the original owner. Henry loves to be with people. Henry understands concepts such as get your toy and let's go outside. He knows and follows these commands: sit, stay, come, down, drop it, leave it, go to your place. He is making good progress on wait and off. He loves playing outdoors and in water, belly rubs, hugs, praise, training, ice, and peanut butter. He needs plenty of exercise- ideally, a fenced in yard or an owner who is committed to walking him or setting up play dates with dogs of similar energy. His original owner attended training and taught Henry basic commands and walking in public places such as large hardware and pet stores for socialization. He walks fairly well on a leash, but does pull when excited. I am approaching 70 and continue leash training in the fenced back yard, but do not feel strong enough to walk and hold on to him in busy public places. He does not have access to bedrooms. He likes riding in the car and does not get sick, but he really wants to be with the driver, so he needs a seatbelt or sturdy partition so that he does not wiggle his way up front. He visits with extended family and is affectionate and follows basic commands with them. He loves the older bull mastiff dog who visits and they love running together in the yard, but his exuberant play can be exhausting for the more sedate dog. Henry has been boarded and likes playing with the other dogs and staff. He has typical puppy behaviors, but is very tall and may be overwhelming to others when seeking attention. Henry has been boarded several times and is not aggressive. He exhibits some herding behavior and does protective barking at dogs and people when he first spots them, or when strangers approach the owner. He has not been exposed to cats or children. Henry is house broken and does not chew or destroy property. He may gather shoes and other items if they are left around, but they are not damaged. Henry's ability to live with other dogs and children is dependent on the owner's continued training of him. It is important to keep in mind that although he is looks big like an adult dog, he has puppy energy and will jump when greeting people he hasnt seen for a while and needs redirection. He is energetic, playful, and does not tire easily. I have had several other dogs with lots of energy, but Henry is the smartest and less prone to being stubborn or taking his time in following commands. He is a wonderful, loving dog for someone who understands the needs of his breed. Royal Doulton Dog German Shepherd med. Born July 3rd, they are ready for their forever home. They come vet checked and will have a vaccine certificate. Parents are pure German Shepherds and.The water resistant bed has a plush fleece top that is perfect for lounging and a durable cotton bottom will hold up to the wear-and-tear of everyday use. Located 10min away from the big apple! In colborne Ontario Very sweet mild temper German shepherd she is very calm and dosile girl but loves to.Call email or.Extremely healthy, agile, and free of any genetic defects. Puppies have been socialized in a family setting with children and other.Pad trained and doing well. Puppies have been dewormed, just needs first vaccinations! He is an awesome little guy. Smart as a whip. Very protective nature.We have so loved this little guy but it's time for.The hook hangs down from the metal plate in the back and is about 2. Message me with details and price. Mom is purebred golden retriever brown color dad is golden retriever mixed with German shepherd light grey color. I owned both mom and dad. I have 1 puppy for sale. The dad is long haired tan and black please see pics. They are friendly family pets. GSD level top line straight backed are less prone to health problems and have higher endurance as oppose to sloped backed GSD. Both parents are of superb temperament and are good around children. The dad is loving and very laid back. Mum is very loving and affectionate and extremely clever. They are all used to noises , airplanes flying over we live near an airfield hoover, other dogs barking and they like to listen to music too. They have had lots of attention and I am lucky to have the time at the moment to spend with them and look after them properly. Forever homes are required for them. I want them to go to loving homes where they will be cared for properly and enjoy a good life. They have been wormed, flea treated and fed solids and milk. Before they leave they will be vet Health checked and microchipped. A deposit will hold a pup till it's old enough to go to its forever home. Pupdates will be available every Friday, I take photos of your chosen pup and send them to you. They will be ready to leave from 8 weeks old which will be 20th June. If you would like to see them, please give me a call to arrange a visit. You can video call too if you like.

How Old Is My Dog? But having this information is essential to providing optimal care. The best way to determine the age of a puppy is by looking at their teeth. Are there cracked, loose, or painful teeth? Is there loss of cognitive function? All these areas help me determine approximate age of my senior patients. DiGangi says the signs of aging in adult dogs vary quite a bit based on breed, lifestyle, and medical history. They also vary based on size. Smaller breeds like Chihuahuas and Terriers tend to live longer, while giant breeds like Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds tend to have the shortest lifespans, explains Bouloy. Look for Signs of Graying Many dogs get gray hair as they age just like we do , says Dr. Graying, primarily on the muzzle, suggests the dog is a mature adult, but it does not provide a closer estimate of age than that. Other dog breeds, like Whippets, Italian Greyhounds, and Poodles, can also be inherently gray in color regardless of age. Temperament can play a role as well. In a recent study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science , a team of researchers studied dogs ages 1 to 4 to determine how anxiety impacts premature graying. They found that anxiety and impulsivity—based on indicators like destructiveness when alone and hyperactivity after exercising—were strong predictors of muzzle grayness. Known as lenticular sclerosis , this benign condition typically appears when the dog is about years of age. Lund says it can be a huge help in estimating ages for middle-aged and senior dogs. He says that most often, teenage dogs start showing signs of incomplete cataracts that typically progresses to complete cataracts. But not all dogs with cataracts are older. Lund says some breeds—including Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers —are predisposed to juvenile cataract formation at a very young age, before they are 2 years old. Cataracts can also develop because of disease e. In humans, the adult teeth begin to emerge in late childhood and early adolescence. In dogs, this occurs in the first six months of life. After that, using teeth to estimate age is tricky, she says. The rates at which these changes occur vary widely by dog face shape, breed background, diet, and the dental care that is provided. Lund says some young dogs can have tartar and plaque buildup on their teeth fairly early in life. As many dogs age, their activity levels begin to decline. Weight gain is typical at middle age, but with increased senior years, they tend to lose weight and develop decreased muscle tone, Lund adds. Part of this is because dogs in their advanced years are more likely to become less active, more likely to nap, and experience a slower metabolism. This means you need to know how to tell how old a dog is to figure out their approximate age. A pup with a bright white smile is likely up to a year old. Dogs age 3 to 5 years old show tartar buildup, or yellowing, of their teeth. Older dogs, age 10 and up, may have missing teeth from periodontal disease. While people tend to carry their weight around the stomach and hips, dogs develop fat pads around the lower back. Signs of muscle wasting, a swayed back, and a bony, prominent spine are all good indications that your pup is a senior. Image used with permission by copyright holder Watch your pooch play No matter the breed, dogs tend to slow down as they age. Older dogs also are more likely than younger dogs to suffer from health problems. Image used with permission by copyright holder Check their joints As dogs age, joint problems like arthritis and hip dysplasia begin to develop. If your pup suddenly begins to limp or shows signs of discomfort with no known cause, it could be a good indication you have an arthritic older dog. Image used with permission by copyright holder Look for visible signs of aging Dogs and humans have a lot in common when it comes to aging. Just as we do, dogs tend to go gray with age. A few gray patches around the muzzle place your dog at around 5 to 7 years old, while a fully gray muzzle indicates that your pup is most likely a senior dog. This condition, called lenticular sclerosis , or nuclear sclerosis, is commonly found in middle-aged and senior dogs. While young dogs require certain nutrients and need more exercise, older dogs may benefit from a diet that caters to sensitive stomachs or prevents weight gain. Editors' Recommendations. Puppies up to two weeks old are tiny in size. The puppies do not move around very much and stay close to their mother. They mainly only root, feed from the mother, and sleep. Puppies open their eyes when they are around two to three weeks old. They start walking and adventuring out of the whelping box during this time. They appear to become more aware of their surroundings and they begin to explore on their own. This is characteristic of puppies up to around five to six weeks old. Puppies generally get their food from their mother until between five to seven weeks old. Puppies who are transitioning to eating solid foods and who are becoming independent of their mother are probably around six to eight weeks old. As the puppy grows, they start becoming more active. By eight weeks old, the puppy is acting how people typically expect a puppy to act. Because their teeth are coming in, they begin chewing on things. They also begin playing in an energetic manner and exploring everything around them. They will also spend a lot of time sleeping in between playing and chewing. Puppies have a growth spurt between eight and sixteen weeks of age, and then they continue visibly growing over the next several months. As they age, puppies will lose their puppy coats and gain their adult coat. Puppy coats are very soft, while adult coats are denser and thicker. Puppies who are between six to twelve months old will start testing their boundaries. They get an increase in energy and are distracted easily by everything. They may start chewing more things around the house, and they love to explore and may wander off. Most puppies will have reached their full size by the time they are between eight and twelve months old. Larger breeds will continue growing for up to two years. A dog under two years is still considered an adolescent. They have some puppy-like qualities, like chewing and energy, but they may have calmed some. Unspayed female dogs typically have their first heat at months old. You also might notice that her vulva is swollen, or producing blood-tinged or straw-colored vaginal discharge. If you are unable to figure out how old the puppy is based on the teeth or developmental stage, you can take them to the vet. The vet will be able to look at the size and breed, along with the teeth, and give you a fairly accurate estimated age. Whenever you first get a puppy, you should take them to the vet to get a checkup. The vet can tell you their age during your first visit. Learn more » Puppies change so drastically, even in the first few weeks of life. Sometimes, it can be hard to pinpoint just how old a puppy is. After all, you have to figure out how much to feed them, what kind of chews they need, and how big you can expect them to get. So, are there some physical clues to help you figure it out? You should be able to ballpark it using a combination of physical and mental traits. During the first several weeks of life, your pup will gradually develop their sight. Vision is blurry at best once they open their eyes and it takes some time to adjust to this big world. Their vision will improve by the day until they fully develop at 8 weeks. While their retinas work slightly differently than humans do, they can still differentiate some colors. If you want to entice your puppy, note that they see blue, violet, and yellow best. This slim spectrum is called dichromatic vision and exists in all dogs, regardless of age. But can we narrow it down even more? Image Credit: , Pixabay 2. Puppy Age By Teeth Puppies are born without teeth, but they soon develop a mouthful of needle-sharp points. If you see that your puppy has no teeth, they are likely under 3 weeks old and need their mother around the clock. Their baby teeth start erupting at around 3 weeks and finish up by 6 weeks. Your puppy loses their baby teeth between 12 weeks to 6 months. You might find a little tooth here and there when they start to lose them, or you might not see them at all. Your puppy might show signs of pain or discomfort during this time called teething. You can buy teething toys to ease pain and channel energy. Offering toys with interesting textures can help keep their attention rather than gnawing on shoes. After 6 months, even when a pup has all of their adult teeth, they will still chew if they feel the urge. So, make sure they learn good habits early on. Many times, with mixed breeds, it can be hard to pin down. For instance, if the mother is significantly smaller or larger than the father, it can create a lot of size possibilities in the litter. You might have a few pups that are toward one end of the spectrum or another. However, if you have a purebred dog, there are diagrams and charts designed to show you where they should be with growth. Image Credit: Boryana Manzurova, Shutterstock 4. Check Overall Body Structure As puppies age, their overall structure changes. They go from a pudgy, bellied, clumsy ball of fluff to an older, more mature-looking dog. Even their fur changes texture as they age. Puppies are usually born with fluffy, often dense coats. When they reach 6 months, they should lose their puppy coat completely. It will be replaced with sleeker adult hair that usually sheds more. You might notice their coat color changes a little bit as the transition happens, too. If you compare early on pictures of any puppy to their adolescent phase, you can see contrast differences in fur coloring. As they get older, you might notice their muscle tone, too. However, you might notice that between 6 and 12 months, muscles are much more defined in the legs than ever before. Your pup is growing into that lean teenager stage. If you have a dog who should have pointy ears, they can take their sweet time developing. You may have adopted a German Shepherd , only to wonder when those ears are going to perk up. How Does Your Puppy Act? Puppies are born barely crawling. By 4 weeks, your pups should be walking on their own. They might be a little clumsy on their feet, but they usually are pretty sturdy by the week mark. You might notice a really huge personality shift between 4 and 8 months. There are a lot of physical and mental changes happening at this time. Manners are crucial to this time frame—you want a well-behaved dog because of consistent training. Puppies are capable of learning as soon as they come home at 8 weeks. The more you work with your puppy, the smoother the teenage stage will probably be. Every dog has a different personality that can influence their behavior—no matter how old they are. Did you see either parent? Do you know if you have a toy, small, medium, large, or extra-large breed? The type of dog you have says a lot about what to expect as they get bigger. Once again, mixed breeds can be tricky, especially if parents differ a lot in size. Even puppies in the same litter may be all different sizes in comparison as they grow—but are all the same age. When you take your new puppy in for their first check-up, they can validate or tell you just how old they estimate the pooch to be. When your vet examines your puppy, they will look them all over to see how developed they are. Many breeders could potentially give you a 6-week-old puppy and tell you that they are 8 weeks. Since they might not get the proper nutrition or know how to chew food well, it can be a time-sensitive matter. If you just happened to get a rescue pup, finding out their age might be a really important thing, especially since you want to celebrate milestones. No matter your reasoning, veterinarians and animal experts devote their life to pet care—they can definitely help you out. They do not develop these important senses until after birth. They can barely move and rely fully on their mother. Between 14 and 21 days, their eyes open up and their vision slowly starts to come. Puppies start hearing shortly after that with hearing coming into full force by 8 weeks. By 3 months, your puppy should start to get the hang of small concepts, like potty time. This is all very new to them! During the first 3 months, puppies will need core vaccines to protect them from potentially fatal diseases like parvovirus , distemper, and rabies. Your vet will probably recommend getting your puppy microchipped at this point. They go from adorable, small puppies to a terror—this is usually the most playful stage. By 6 months, your puppy will be close to their adult size. They might pack on muscle and weight throughout the next 6 months, but the bulk of the growth will be finished by the end of the sixth month. Potty training and basic commands should be coming into full swing. Your dog should know their name, simple obedience, and the concept of potty training. You can get your pup in for a check-up at their vet for their 6-month appointment. This is also a good time to schedule or discuss options to spay or neuter as they come into sexual maturity at this point. If you have a larger breed, some vets may suggest waiting on this procedure until they are finished growing. We all know how difficult human children are during this point, so expect nothing less from your dog. They might test their boundaries, chew up your belongings, master escaping enclosures, and do lots of other pain-in-the-butt things. If you have older dogs, you may see the pup getting put in its place a lot. Especially bigger breeds who might not realize just how large they are. They might take a little longer to mature mentally, but their bodies are just about there. You might notice a huge difference in growing speeds. Most pups have finally grown into their feet, so they are less clumsy. But man oh man, are they probably naughty. This age group really gives you a run from your money. You just have to get over that hump. Remember to have patience and understanding that your pup is just a growing guy or gal. They might fill out a bit, but usually, their bone structure and organs are as they will be. They will still have an abundance of energy. Even though it can be quite challenging, it will be worth it. If you work with your dog properly, they will have awesome temperaments and able bodies. You can check at home with a few of these tips, but if you want the highest level of accuracy—ask a vet. When you take your puppy in for their routine core vaccines and check-ups, your vet can pinpoint exactly how old they think your dog is. You want to know—after all, your puppy deserves to have a birthday celebration every year, too! Featured image credit: Happy monkey, Shutterstock Contents.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Shipping is available if you are not within driving distance. Welcome to North Georgia Labradoodles! We are a small family breeder of Labradoodles located in Northeast Georgia. We are a mother and daughter team and have been breeding top quality dogs for years. We aquired our first labradoodle in and fell head-over-heels in love with the Labradoodle temperment. We raise our sweet Labradoodles right here in our home where they can get the love and socialization that they need. Our dogs share our home, occupy our couches, our laps and our beds. Our dogs are not simply a business, they are cherished members of the family. We focus on raising beautiful, loving, healthy, intelligent, allergy and asthma-friendly companions for you and your family. All puppies are raised in our home with individual love and socialization. Our parents are health tested and our puppies come with a one year health guarantee. North Georgia Labradoodles breeds standard-sized, multi-generational Labradoodles. Our puppies are bred for temperament, health, personality and — of course — looks! Yes, these puppies are incredibly adorable, but beauty is not the only thing that makes them special. Their cuteness, combined with their inherent intelligence and gentle temperament, makes these puppies completely irresistible. We think that starts with the parents. We health test before choosing our breeding dogs to ensure the healthiest puppies possible. We test using PawPrint Genetics. Click below to view the testing and results. That means we health test our dogs to the highest standards offered by the Australian Labradoodle Association of America and abide by their code of ethics, as well as our own. We hand raise our puppies in our home as part of our family. They are well socialized with children, our cats, and various other pets. Our puppies health and happiness are of utmost importance to us and we strive to place them in wonderful forever families that will provide them with love, training, exercise and socialization to ensure a lifetime of happiness for all. Our 3rd party temperament testing helps greatly with this process. We operate on Kingdom principles meaning we operate out of love and integrity and stand by our genetic health guarantee and are here for a lifetime of support for your and your new puppy. We are honored to serve by placing quality companion puppies in your home. Each pedigree submitted is researched and verified to ensure authenticity and health testing. The Australian Labradoodle has been bred for generations back for temperament, health, structure, and coat quality. Click here for current puppy pictures and pictures from previous litters. Mini and Medium Pups available for June and July pick-up! This helps us match your family with a puppy that best suits your lifestyle. Our puppies are a part of our family and the health and maintenance over their lifetime mean a lot to us. So much attention to detail and every decision made and guidelines strictly followed, all with the end result in mind of creating the highest quality labradoodles on the planet. Weirdest coolest thing ever when you have never had one of your pups. We had airedales — opposite of Jia- aloof as can be. Reads you, knows you; you read her; you know her. Total human in dog form. Best thing ever! You have a gift of breeding the best tempered companions, and companions are vital on all the twists and turns that life brings. I fully believe you took something God planted in your heart and honored Him. So grateful we were lucky enough to have one. You have been faithful to Him in this calling, and I know He who promised is faithful to you! Home SkyeDoodles Austrailian Labradoodles. Breeding for excellence. At SkyeDoodles, we breed the finest quality bloodlines of Multi-generational Australian Labradoodles. We are a small family breeder just outside Atlanta, Georgia. Our breeding dogs live in our home or with a special hand-picked Guardian Family with whom the dog has been loved and cared for since the age of eight weeks. If you are looking for a gorgeous, healthy, intelligent, athletic, loving family companion who is allergy friendly and non-shedding, then a Skyedoodle is for you! All of our breeding dogs undergo extensive health testing for genetic diseases for which the highest standards must be met before a dog is qualified for breeding at Skyedoodles. Great care is placed on puppy socialization, the highest quality of grain free and raw food, vitamins, and of course a lot of love! See our available puppies. At Skyedoodles we value our clients. We understand how important it is to find the right puppy for your family. We work with every person individually, whether it is finding the right candidate for a future service dog or your new family member. See our beautiful expecting couples, and puppies available for adoption now. Hurry, puppies are often reserved before they are born. We appreciate your interest in our Australian Labradoodle puppies. We love to talk about our expected litters, the adoption process of our gorgeous puppies and what you can expect from Skyedoodles Australian Labradoodles. Giving Back. Charitable donations changing children's lives. Our community of SkyeDoodle families makes these charitible donations possible simply by purchasing premium quality Life's Abundance food, and essential suppliments from NuVet Labs. Our partenerships with these companies allows SkyeDoodles, and SkyeDoodle families to make a difference in children's lives. Connect with us online. See the cutest posts on Facebook and Instagram, and find out more about the top quality products we recommend. Like us on facebook! Be the first to see videos of new litters and more! Follow us on Instagram! Enjoy cute and funny moments, the instant they happen! TLC Pet Food provides an array of superior quality, safe and effective products, improving the health of people, pets and the planet. America's highest quality pet supplement since , made in the U. Labradoodles are not only endearing and full of personality, but they also offer a host of benefits that make them the ideal choice for those new to dog ownership. Easy to Train Labradoodles are known for their intelligence.Read more » Continue Reading.This is great advice, as crate training your Labradoodle early will make things easier as they get older. Health Tested. What does that even mean? One of the biggest parts of being a reputable breeder is health testing. While yearly vet checkups are important there is so much more that goes into making sure.Are Labradoodles Easy to Train? When you adopt a puppy, no matter what they of puppy they are they will need to be trained. As such, many to-be-dog owners look to see if their particular breed is easy to train before they plan on adopting. You may have fallen in love with the adorable face and curls of the Labradoodle, Visitors, treats, decorations, and more can all cause stress and harm to our Labradoodles. We want our four-legged friends to enjoy Halloween as much as we do, so make sure you follow these Halloween safety tips for Labradoodles. Hide away the candy.Our Labradoodles, however, will feel the heat even more so than we do. So, what can we do to keep our Labradoodles safe and healthy.Are Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? Labradoodles are a wonderful breed. Read on to learn more. However, reality is a bit.In fact, they have three! If you just adopted a labradoodle puppy, they could have a fleece, wool, or hair coat. Below we explain the qualities and characteristics of all three. Fleece A fleece coat is soft and easy to manage. Thanks to its.How to Exercise Your Labradoodle Labradoodles can live a long time, up to 16 years on average. However, to ensure you spend as many years as possible with your Labradoodle, you need to take care of its health. That means feeding them well and exercising your pup regularly. But each breed of dog has different exercise requirements, so how can.But have no fear. Here are.Doodle Grooming Warning…this is going to be long and I am not a professional by any means but I have experience with grooming all our doodles! Grooming is key in the life of your doodle! I think of grooming as a bonding time between me and my dog. The goal is to start young so they.Hazel's Story How we came to get Hazel is a crazy story. If you have been following us for a while you may remember my first female poodle Sophie black and white. She failed her health testing so per her health guarantee we would get a replacement puppy. Her breeder rarely has litters but by chance had some.You can breed many generations F1, F1b, multi-generational but no matter what the results are essentially the same. There is no breed standard so.I want the best for my dogs nutritionally, health wise, life wise, and improving our breeding program. Everyone had great things to say about it.Our original start: Have you ever wondered how we chose our name? The C comes from my name Casey and the.She is an English Cream Golden Retriever and we are completely in love. With our decision to retire Bella we decided to go ahead and start looking for our next mama. After much thought we decided that we wanted to looking into adding Goldendoodles.Hybrid Vigor…. Did you know that with a crossbred dog you get added benefits? I had read about hybrid vigor when I was researching at our start. Then in college it is something we talk about regularly in all of my livestock production classes as a way of bettering our herds. Our Nursery Phase I…. We must always be willing to change things and discover.Picture Perfect…. One of my favorite things to do is take pictures of the puppies. I just want to give a little insight into what all.There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die…a time to weep and a time to laugh. Ecclesiastes We experienced both of these seasons in a short time. My papa passed away on a Sunday and the next.Choosing Our Dogs…. If you have ever purchased a dog you might know how long of a process choosing the right one can be. Just like many of the people who have purchased from us have said they have searched for maybe months or years for a reputable breeder before us, we also have been through the same.Bella was our first baby. From there it all.Contact Us. We breed multigenerational Australian Labradoodles and American Labradoodles. Our goal is producing loving Australian Labradoodle puppies and American Labradoodle puppies to add to your family: with hypo allergenic qualities, beautiful wavy fleeces and curles and exceptionally smart. A smart dog is a happy dog, they are easily trained which adds to the enjoyment of your new family member. We have chocolate Australian labradoodle puppies for sale, chocolate parti Australian labradoodle puppies for sale merle Australian labradoodle puppies for sale and many other color Australian labradoodles for sale. Our puppies will be smart like their parents who know both hand signals as well as voice commands. Many of our past puppies have become service dogs for Epileptic Seizure Services, Hospice Services, and other Service related settings. Why do our dogs make such Great Service Dog Candidates, our wonderful Rocky passes his wonderful calm demeanor to all of his puppies. Also, many people love the look of our Merle labradoodles - They are absolutely stunning. We tend to have clients in the Chattanooga, Tennessee and Huntsville, Alabama areas that have a found interest in our Miniature Australian Labradoodles and clients in Florida are particularly interested in our Merle Australian Labradoodles. Of course clients in Dallas Texas and parts of Illinois have added our Standard size Australian Labradoodles to there households. Whether clients are on vacation or simply enjoying the local park, It's exciting when we hear reports from our owners that they ran into another Australian Labradoodle that turns out to be a Lord and Lady Labradoodle all over the country. And clients never cease to tell stories of how people they meet rant and rave over there Lord and Lady Australian Labradoodle. Serving Atlanta and the South East for 12 years! The Australian Labradoodle is different from all other labradoodles In the mids, The Australian Guide Dog Association received an inquiry from a blind lady requesting a guide dog that would not cause her allergies to flare. To achieve a hypoallergenic dog they needed to breed their proven Labradors to a dog that was already non-shedding, hence the Standard Poodle. The resulting Labradoodles subsequently have been bred to each other, continuing the multi-generational tradition without ever having to go back to the parent breed of the Labrador or Poodle. Even when the other types of Labradoodles are bred on for generations, the result is not an Australian Labradoodle, as the attributes of the infused breeds were not included in their ancestry. We have also produced many therapy and service dogs in Atlanta and the surrounding areas. Our puppies are birthed in our home and raised in our acre farm in the suburbs of Atlanta. Labradoodle puppies for adoption Atlanta Georgia. Australian Labradoodles near me Thank you to all of our Families. Our History. K iokee Creek lazily meanders down the back of the property. It also is the name of the first Baptist Church in Georgia, which was started by Daniel Marshall in .The reverend is the grandfather, 6 generations back, of Tammy Marshall Meissner, the owner of Double Gap Farm, and is on the land that was part of the original Marshall homestead. The property was granted to Daniel Marshall and his sons for their service in the Revolutionary War. Breeding for Health. For those unfamiliar with Labradoodles, there are two classifications. One of the benefits of crossing two different breeds is to minimize the health issues that are associated with each breed. The Labradoodle. The labradoodle has been in existence since when an Australian breeder crossed the Labrador Retriever and Standard Poodle. The purpose was to combine the low-shedding coat of the poodle with the loyalty and trainability of a Labrador Retriever. The result was a hypoallergenic guide dog that was immediately loved by all who met him. Since then the breed has increased in popularity in the United States and all across the world.

Prevalence: Common Pugs are members of the toy group despite their solid appearance. They range in height from 10 to 11 inches and in weight from 14 to 18 pounds six to eight kilograms. They are square dogs with substantial limbs. Pugs are the sturdiest dogs of the toy group, befitting their mastiff heritage. Pugs are known for their large, round heads, with the shortened muzzles and extensive forehead wrinkles. The vertical wrinkle on the forehead is said to resemble the Chinese character for "prince" and thus known as the "prince mark. The tail curls tightly over the hip. They have a short, but very dense double coat. Colors can range from apricot to fawn, silver and black. All but the black dogs have a dark mask and ears with a trace of darkening down the back. The ears feel like black velvet. Personality: Pugs are not the lively socialites that some of the toy breeds are. They are a bit more serious, with a dry sense of humor. The breed motto is "multum in parvo," meaning a lot in a little, with plenty of dog in a small package. Pugs can be stubborn but normally want to please. These are fairly laid-back dogs, not usually given to extensive barking, digging or chewing. Pugs tend to get along well with other dogs and are sturdy enough to get along with children. They enjoy company and can be quite affectionate. True to their grouping, they are good companion dogs. Living With: Pugs are extremely easy to keep and have a serious tendency to become obese unless their diet and exercise are watched carefully. With the short muzzle, they do not do well in hot, humid weather and must be observed carefully for heatstroke. Pugs do tend to snore, again a result of the short muzzle. The prominent eyes are easily injured and care must be taken to keep them moist. Pugs are fairly robust and often live to 14 or 15 years of age. Pugs do best with some daily exercise to help with their weight problems. Despite their heroic alarm years ago, they are not usually great watchdogs, preferring instead to greet newcomers with a wagging tail. Pugs should be socialized to keep that outgoing temperament, and they do well with other pets. Grooming is important, both for the shedding from the dense coat and to keep facial wrinkles clean. A quick daily grooming, even a swipe with a hound mitt, usually suffices for the coat and a gentle wiping with a wet cloth for the face. History: While the pug is often associated with Holland, the breed originated in China, probably bred down from one of the local mastiff-type dogs. The little dogs with the round heads and expressive facial wrinkles were then transported to Holland via trading ships of the Dutch East India Company. In , a pug sounded the alarm that saved Prince William from the approaching Spanish soldiers, and the breed forever after was tied to the royal House of Orange. Napoleon's wife had a pet pug, and the duke and duchess of Windsor had a pug as a royal companion. Victorian England took on pugs as the latest rage in canine fashion and many pugs can be spotted in paintings of that era. The word "pug" may come from the Latin "pugnus" for fist, possibly describing the round face and head. The name does not fit the breed's temperament, because these are not really guard dogs, but designed first and foremost as companion dogs. Related Pet Care Articles. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Pugs are clowns at heart, but they carry themselves with dignity. Pugs are playful dogs, ready and able for games , but they are also lovers, and must be close to their humans. Pugs love to be the center of attention, and are heartsick if ignored. Pugs are square and thickset, usually weighing no more than 20 pounds. Their heads are large and round, with large, round eyes. They have deep and distinct wrinkles on their faces. Legend has it that the Chinese, who mastered the breeding of this dog, prized these wrinkles because they resembled good luck symbols in their language. His ears are smooth, black and velvety. He has a characteristic undershot jaw the lower teeth extend slightly beyond the upper teeth and a tightly curled tail. Personality-wise, Pugs are happy and affectionate, loyal and charming, playful and mischievous. They are very intelligent, however, they can be willful, which makes training challenging. If trained and well-socialized , they get along well with other animals and children. Because they are a small, quiet breed and are relatively inactive when indoors, they are a good choice for apartment dwellers. Pugs have a short, double coat, and are known for shedding profusely. Pug Highlights Loyal and affectionate: Pugs are known for being very loyal and affectionate dogs. They love to cuddle and be around their owners, and they make great companions. Easy to care for: Pugs are relatively easy to care for. Good with children: Pugs are generally good with children. They are patient and gentle, and they enjoy playing with kids. Adaptable: Pugs are adaptable dogs. They can live in apartments or houses, and they can do well in both hot and cold climates. Funny and playful: Pugs are known for being funny and playful dogs. They enjoy making their owners laugh, and they are always up for a good time. Some historians believe they are related to the Tibetan Mastiff. They were prized by the Emperors of China and lived in luxurious accommodations, sometimes even being guarded by soldiers. Pugs are one of three types of short-nosed dogs that are known to have been bred by the Chinese: the Lion dog, the Pekingese , and the Lo-sze, which was the ancient Pug. Evidence of Pug-like dogs has been found in ancient Tibet and Japan. In the latter s and early s, China began trading with European countries. Reportedly, the first Pugs brought to Europe came with the Dutch traders, who named the breed Mopshond, a name still used today. Pugs quickly became favorites of royal households throughout Europe, and even played a role in the history of many of these families. In Holland, the Pug became the official dog of the House of Orange after a Pug reportedly saved the life of William, Prince of Orange, by giving him a warning that the Spaniards were approaching in .It is known that black pugs existed in the s because the famous artist, William Hogarth, was a Pug enthusiast. He portrayed a black Pug and many others in his famous paintings. In , Goya also portrayed Pugs in his paintings. Before she married Napoleon Bonaparte, she was confined at Les Carmes prison. In the early s, Pugs were standardized as a breed with two lines becoming dominant in England. Pugs were first exhibited in England in .The studbook began in with 66 Pugs in the first volume. Meanwhile, in China, Pugs continued to be bred by the royal families. When the British overran the Chinese Imperial Palace in , they discovered several Pugs, and brought some of the little dogs back to England with them. Two Pugs named Lamb and Moss were brought to England. He was an outstanding dog and was bred many times to dogs of both the Willoughby and Morrison lines. Click is credited with making Pugs a better breed overall and shaping the modern Pug as we know it today. Pugs became very popular during the Victorian era and were featured in many paintings, postcards, and figurines of the period. Often, they were depicted wearing wide, decorative collars or large bows around their short, thick necks. Queen Victoria had many Pugs, and also bred them. The queen preferred apricot-fawn Pugs, whereas another Pug fancier, Lady Brassey, made black Pugs fashionable after she brought some back from China in .At first, Pugs were very popular, but by the turn of the century, interest in the breed waned. A few dedicated breeders kept breeding and, after some years, the breed regained popularity. Pug Size Pugs weigh between 14 and 18 pounds male and female. Generally, they are 10 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder. He tends to be a sedentary dog, content to sit in your lap as you read a book or watch a movie. Au contraire. He is a playful, comical dog that enjoys living it up, and delights his owner with silly antics. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training , and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings or other relatives of the parents is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when he grows up. Socialization helps ensure that your Pug puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling him in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking him to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help him polish his social skills. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Cheyletiella Dermatitis Walking Dandruff : This is a skin condition that is caused by a small mite. If you see heavy dandruff, especially down the middle of the back, contact your vet. The mites that cause this condition are contagious, which means all pets in the household need to treated. A diagnosis of PDE can only be made by testing the brain tissue of the dog after it dies. PDE usually affects young dogs, causing them to seizure, circle, become blind, then fall into a coma and die. This can happen in a few days or weeks. They are prone to a condition called idiopathic epilepsy : seizures for no known reason. If your Pug has seizures, take him to your vet to determine what treatment is appropriate. Nerve Degeneration : Older Pugs that drag their rear, stagger, have trouble jumping up or down, or become incontinent may be suffering from nerve degeneration. Since their front legs often remain strong, some owners buy carts to help their Pugs get around, and the veterinarian might be able to prescribe medication to help alleviate symptoms. If your Pug squints or the eyes look red and tear excessively, contact your vet immediately. Corneal ulcers usually respond well to medication, but if left untreated, can cause blindness or even rupture the eye. Dry Eye : Keratoconjunctivitis sicca and pigmentary keratitis are two conditions seen in Pugs. They can occur at the same time, or individually. Your vet can perform tests to determine if this is the cause, which can be controlled with medication and special care. Pigmentary keratits is a condition that causes black spots on the cornea, especially in the corner near the nose. If the pigment covers the eye, it can cause blindness. Your vet can prescribe medication that will help keep the eyes moist and dissolve the pigment. Both of these eye conditions require life-long therapy and care. Eye Problems : Because their large eyes bulge, Pugs are prone to a variety of eye problems, including proptosis the eyeball is dislodged from the eye socket and the eyelid clamps behind it ; distichiasis an abnormal growth of eyelashes on the margin of the eye, resulting in the eyelashes rubbing against the eye ; progressive retinal atrophy a degenerative disease of the retinal visual cells that leads to blindness ; and entropion the eyelid, usually the lower lid, rolls inward, causing the hair on the lid to rub on the eye and irritate it. Allergies : Some Pugs suffer from a variety of allergies , ranging from contact to food allergies. If your Pug is licking at his paws or rubbing his face a great deal, suspect allergy and have him checked by your vet. Demodectic Mange : Also called demodicosis, all dogs carry a little passenger called a demodex mite. The mother dog passes this mite to her pups in their first few days of life. If your Pug has a weakened or compromised immune system, however, it can develop demodectic mange. Demodectic mange can be localized or generalized. In the localized form, patches of red, scaly, skin with hair loss appears on the head, neck and forelegs. Even so, you should take your dog to the vet because it can turn into the generalized form of demodectic mange. Generalized demodectic mange covers the entire body and affects older puppies and young adult dogs. The dog develops patchy skin, bald spots, and skin infections all over the body. The American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology recommends neutering or spaying all dogs that develop generalized demodectic mange because there is a genetic link. Staph Infection : Staph bacteria is commonly found on skin, but some dogs will develop pimples and infected hair follicles if their immune systems are stressed. The lesions can look like hives where there is hair; on areas without hair, the lesions can look like ringworm. You should contact your vet for appropriate treatment. Yeast Infection : If your Pug smells bad, is itchy and has blackened, thickened skin, he may have a yeast infection. It commonly affects the armpits, feet, groin, neck, and inside the ears. Your vet can prescribe medications to clear this up. Hemi-vertebrae : Short-nosed breeds, such as Pugs, Bulldogs and French Bulldogs, can have misshaped vertebrae. Sometimes, only a few of the vertebrae are affected and the dog is able to live a normal life. Others will stagger and display an uncoordinated, weak gait between 4 and 6 months of age. Some dogs get progressively worse and may even become paralyzed. The cause of the condition is unknown. Surgery can help. Hip Dysplasia : This malady affects small breeds as well as large breeds, including Pugs. Many factors, including genetics, environment and diet, are thought to contribute to this deformity of the hip joint. Affected Pugs are usually able to lead normal, healthy lives with proper veterinary attention. Legg-Perthes Disease : This is another disease involving the hip joint. Many toy breeds are prone to this condition. When your Pug has Legg-Perthes, the blood supply to the head of the femur the large rear leg bone is decreased, and the head of the femur that connects to the pelvis begins to disintegrate. Usually, the first signs of Legg-Perthes, limping and atrophy of the leg muscle, occur when puppies are 4 to 6 months old. The scar tissue that results from the surgery creates a false joint and the puppy is usually pain free. Patellar Luxation : The patella is the kneecap. Luxation means dislocation of an anatomical part as a bone at a joint. Patellar luxation is when the knee joint often of a hind leg slides in and out of place, causing pain. This can be crippling, but many dogs lead relatively normal lives with this condition. Vaccination Sensitivity : There are reports of Pugs suffering from sensitivity to routine vaccinations. Usually, symptoms include hives, facial swelling, soreness and lethargy. A dog that is sensitive to vaccines can develop complications or die, though this is rare. Watch your Pug carefully for a few hours after being vaccinated and call the vet if you notice anything unusual. Pug Care Though playful and rambunctious, the Pug is a low-maintenance companion, making it ideal for older owners. Because they are a small, quiet breed and are relatively inactive when indoors, they are a good choice for apartment dwellers as well. Light sleepers may also want to invest in a pair of ear plugs — Pugs are prone to snore. How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. These dogs love to eat, eat, eat. This, combined with their small stature, puts them at risk for obesity. As a Pug owner, you must show great restraint. Do not indulge him with food. Feed appropriate portions , limit treats and encourage exercise. For more on feeding your Pug, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Pugs are typically fawn-colored or black. The fawn color can have different tints, such as apricot or silver, and all Pugs have a short, flat, black muzzle. Pugs shed like crazy, especially in summer. The wise Pug owner accepts this, and adjusts her wardrobe accordingly, wearing light-colored clothing that better hides hair. Following that, regular brushing and bathing helps keep the coat in good condition and shedding to a minimum. A monthly bath is sufficient, though some owners bathe their Pugs more frequently. These folds are hotbeds for infection if allowed to become damp or dirty. The wrinkles must be dried thoroughly after bathing, and wiped out in-between baths. Some owners simply use a dry cotton ball; others use commercial baby wipes to wipe out the folds. Because they protrude, the eyes are vulnerable to injury and irritation from soaps and chemicals. Like many small breeds, the Pug can be susceptible to gum disease. Regular brushing with a small, soft toothbrush and doggie toothpaste helps prevent this. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Though small, the Pug is not delicate like some toy breeds, so he is a good breed choice for families with children. However, children who want an active pet to retrieve balls or play soccer will be disappointed with a Pug. Adults should always supervise interactions between children and pets. Properly trained and socialized , the Pug enjoys the companionship of dogs , and can be trusted with cats, rabbits, and other animals. Pug Rescue Groups Pugs are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Pugs in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. They thrive on attention and can get pretty worked up and excited if fun things are happening. These are amiable little dogs who want to participate in your activities, too. Pugs with kids and babies are often a great combination since Pugs are fun and enjoy playtime. Finally, when it comes to a career, Pugs may have the best job in the world: being a companion to their loving family. They are average barkers not too quiet, not too much and make fairly good watchdogs. The biggest challenge to Pug care is probably their health needs, which are high. Grooming Guess what—Pugs shed! Black Pugs might shed a bit less than fawn-colored pups, but both shed year-round and not just in the fall and spring as with other breeds. Be sure to clean those wrinkles and skin folds every day with mild wipes to remove dander and accumulations; this will help prevent irritation and infections. If you see redness or swelling or smell an odor your pup may have an ear infection. Your vet can prescribe medication to clear it up. A bath about every month is also a good idea. Be sure to dry those delicious folds completely! Pugs need their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Get the how-to here. If nails are left too long on older dogs, it can make it painful to walk. And be sure to talk with your vet for advice regarding dental health and the use of dental chews. Have your vet professionally clean their teeth every year. Regular dental care will help prevent serious issues later in their life. Pugs are people pleasers, so they want to do a good job for you. You can do this in part by taking your dog to group training classes or becoming involved in a dog sport like agility, obedience or rally. Obesity leads to other health problems down the road. Consider feeding your pup a well-balanced, high-quality commercial diet formulated specifically for toy breeds. Those treat calories count! Finally, consider getting a doggy- Puggy? They are in the best position to help you pick the right food for your dog based on their individual needs. Exercise All dogs need appropriate exercise, and your Pug is no exception. Since Pugs are a brachycephalic breed flat-faced with a short nose , some may have a compromised airway caused by the extreme facial characteristics in their nostrils, palate, larynx and trachea. Instead, aim for shorter exercise sessions, broken up throughout the day. Pugs have pretty low energy levels, and their exercise needs are also fairly low; they typically need less than an hour of exercise every day. While some Pugs do enjoy doggy sports like agility, a short walk or fun indoor playtime will be plenty. Ideal Environment Pugs are wonderfully adaptable to many types of home settings and will be happy wherever you live. No problem for Pugs. Small homes? Big homes with room to roam? You bet! Country homes with huge backyards? Your Pug will love that too, although they may not need a yard of that size to be happy. Pugs are usually open to meeting strangers, even though they may bark to let you know your guests are here. Pugs really do prefer the indoors. Back to Top Pug Health Toy dog breeds tend to have longer lifespans than large dog breeds, and the Pug is no exception. Pug life expectancy is about 13 to 15 years. However, there are a few health issues you should be aware of, so you can help your pet stay healthy throughout their life. Eye Issues: Since Pugs have such prominent eyes, they are more prone to eye issues. Treatment usually consists of medicated eye drops. Weight reduction, physical therapy and surgery are options for treatment. Patellar Luxation: This is the condition where the knee slides out of the joint. In milder cases, pain medication and weight management are treatment options. Surgery is often needed in more severe cases. Pug Dog Encephalitis: This is an inflammatory brain disease and is fatal. Within a matter of weeks, a dog will experience seizures, circling, blindness, then coma and death. At this time, there is no known treatment for the disease, nor are experts sure how they get it. Skin Issues: Keeping your Pug clean helps minimize skin issues. In particular, the skin folds require special attention to avoid irritation and infections. Ear Infections: Those floppy ears are cute, but they may harbor infections. Check their ears every day and gently wipe away any debris. Signs of infection include redness, swelling or a bad odor. Your vet can prescribe medicated ear solutions to get rid of an infection. Allergies: Pugs can be affected by skin allergies. These can be caused by something in the food they eat or their environment pollen, mold, etc. Thankfully, your vet can treat allergies with either dietary changes or medications, depending on the cause. Back to Top Pug History The history of the Pug dates back thousands of years and spans multiple continents. But their not so humble origins began as the beloved companions of Chinese emperors , and they were highly prized and valued for centuries. Some Pugs even had their own guards! By around the s, Pugs began to travel abroad, and they arrived in Europe, where they became quite popular with royalty in Holland. Over in England, Queen Victoria was said to be especially fond of the breed; she shared her home with as many as 38 Pugs. They may be small dogs, but they pack a lot of personality into their small size! The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in , but the popularity of the Pug breed in America declined somewhat around the turn of the 20th century. Today, the Pug enjoys steady popularity, currently ranking 28th of the most popular dog breeds in the US. You can also reach out to Pug rescue organizations to adopt a Pug or keep an eye out for the breed at your local animal shelter. A bit goofy and rambunctious, pugs have also earned a reputation as a canine class clown. Pugs are ideal house dogs thanks to their stable temperament and loving disposition. Although you'll need a quality vacuum, as they shed profusely! Playful but not requiring lots of activity, pugs are content to do whatever their owner wants to do, whether that be watching a movie or going for a walk around the block. Very intelligent, and at times willful, pugs are happy and affectionate pups who remain very loyal to their owners. As a brachycephalic breed, that adorable smooshy face can also be the source of common health problems for pugs, which potential owners will want to understand before they choose to become pug parents. Pugs come in two standard colors with a few tonal variations: fawn with a black mask or all black. The fawn or tan coat color can range from a warm apricot to a cool and rarely seen silver. Their heads feature their signature short, flat, black muzzle covered with deep wrinkles. Their prominent eyes dominate their comical, wrinkly face and showcase a range of emotions, from surprise and happiness to curiosity. They sport moles on their cheeks, called "beauty spots" and a clearly defined "thumb mark" on their forehead. Their short coat is actually a double coat, and they shed like crazy, especially during the summer months. According to the AKC standard , the perfect pug tail has a double curl. Temperament A pug's favorite place to be is right by your side. Bred to be companions, they are completely content snuggling up on your lap and lounging the day away and aren't afraid to hop right into bed with you. But be forewarned: Pugs wheeze, snort, and snore so you may want to invest in some ear plugs. They will be quite unhappy—and will let you know it—if you don't shower them with affection or if you leave them alone for long periods of time. You shouldn't expect a pug to hunt, guard, or retrieve. A pug will have nothing to do with such activities. A funny little dog, pugs often find ways to create their own silly entertainment—but please for their sake pay attention to the show they are putting on—while maintaining a dignified manner when necessary. While they are a toy breed, pugs are a bit tougher than other similar-sized pups and are up for playtime. Avoid disappointment and make sure the kids know pugs aren't likely to play fetch or chase a soccer ball though. Pugs are pretty amenable to getting along with anyone, including other dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals. Pugs also make great companions for those living in apartments and older individuals because they don't require too much indoor space for activity. We're not necessarily saying pugs are lazy, but they are known to sleep up to 14 hours per day! They also don't bark much because breathing is a bit difficult for them. Their breathing challenges combined with their short legs make them poor swimmers, too. Although they'd likely benefit from a dip in the pool on hot summer days, as they don't tolerate heat—or the cold—well. So be diligent in helping manage their intake—limit their treats and don't feed them table scraps no matter how cute and pleading their stare may be—because their small stature makes them likely to gain weight quickly. You should also encourage exercise, although they don't need much in a day. They find creative ways to burn off energy on their own. Bathing about once monthly and regular brushing with a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt, or a hound glove help manage significant pug shedding. And those sweet facial wrinkles need extra attention because they are a breeding ground for infection if they are damp and dirty. Dry your pug's wrinkles thoroughly after bathing and wipe them out in between baths—a dry cotton ball will do the trick. Pugs also need their nails trimmed regularly, as they don't naturally wear by spending lots of time outdoors. Regular teeth brushing is a must as pugs are susceptible to gum disease. Training can be a challenge, Nichols says. Remember their ultimate goal is simply to spend time with you. If those surgeries are not done, expect a lifelong loud snoring dog. These are symptoms of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS , which can also cause saliva disorders, sleep issues, and difficulties with regurgitation. Pugs can face a fair amount of other health issues, including back problems, epilepsy, allergies, hemi-vertebrae or misshapen vertebrae , hip dysplasia , patellar luxation,and nerve degeneration later in life. A variety of skin conditions may affect pugs, including yeast infections, staph infections, or demodectic mange. While their big, dark eyes are adorable, they are especially vulnerable. Pugs sometimes face corneal ulcers, proptosis , and dry eye, among other ailments. Skin conditions such as walking dandruff—caused by a small mite—need to be treated by your veterinarian. Pug parents also need to watch that their pugs maintain a healthy weight; obesity can exacerbate their breathing problems. A study released in comparing the health of pugs to other dogs found "many critical health-related welfare challenges to overcome for pugs. Conversely, according to the study, pugs had significantly reduced adjusted odds of having heart murmur or lipoma tumors. One affliction unique to pugs is Pug Dog Encephalitis , afatal inflammatory brain disease. There is no known cause or test for it unfortunately. It causes a pug to seize, circle, become blind, then fall into a coma and die. Research is ongoing. History Pugs are an ancient breed—perhaps the oldest dog breed, in fact—that originated in China. Going back some 2, years, flat-faced, or short-nosed toy dogs like the pug were popular with Chinese emperors and lived lavish lives because of it, the AKC says. They were only given to those outside the Far East as gifts. But in the s and early s, Dutch traders arrived in Europe with the breed and thanks to popularity with royal households they quickly gained popularity across Europe. Their long history reveals a number of different names for the breed including lo-sze Chinese , mopsi Finnish , doguillo Spanish , and mophonds Dutch , among others. The name pug is supposedly derived from the Latin word "pugnus"—which means "fist"—to reflect the fact that a pug's face looks like a clenched fist, the AKC writes. Pugs were also very popular during the Victorian era, featured on postcards, in paintings, and as figurines. For years they remained largely pets of the aristocracy. Queen Victoria had many pugs and bred them , and Marie Antoinette also had a pug named Mops. They were standardized as a breed in the early s. Upon taking over the Chinese Imperial Palace in , the English discovered several pugs and began breeding them back in England to improve the breed. It wasn't until after the Civil War that pugs came to the United States. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in .Initially very popular, pug ownership and breeding waned until the s when the, the Pug Dog Club of America was created and recognized by the AKC. Fun Facts One legend says the pug became the mascot of Holland's royal House of Orange after a pug barked a warning to save the life of the Prince of Orange before an attack by Spanish troops, the AKC writes. Another legend holds that some pugs were prized in Chinese culture because their wrinkles resembled good luck symbols in the Chinese language. A group of pugs is called a grumble. Not surprisingly, pugs' cute mugs have graced the big screen. In recent years, many pugs have become insta-famous on Instagram as well. Doug the Pug is undeniably the most popular of the bunch. With more than 13 million social followers, the celebrity pup rubs noses with stars like Joe Jonas and Shakira. Pug owners and enthusiasts are just as quirky and loveable as the breed, often dressing up their pups and hosting get-togethers and pug parades. The round head is massive with a short, blunt, square-shaped muzzle. Moles on the cheeks are considered beauty spots. The teeth meet in a slight undershot bite. The very large, prominent eyes are dark. The small, thin ears are either rose or button shaped. The face has large, deep wrinkles. The high-set tail is curled over the back and a double curl is preferred in the show ring. Dewclaws are usually removed. The short coat is soft, fine and smooth. Coat colors come in apricot, fawn, black and silver. Temperament The Pug is keen, with a happy-go-lucky attitude. Animated, peppy and spirited, it is loyal, loving and affectionate with its family. Playful, lively and rambunctious, it is sure to keep you laughing. Highly intelligent, it bores easily without variety in its training. These dogs can be a bit willful if they sense they are stronger minded than the humans around them. Pugs are sensitive to the tone of your voice, so harsh punishment is unnecessary. They need an owner who is calm, yet firm, confident and consistent with the rules. This dog is neither excitable nor dull. They are good watchdogs, very devoted and are not yappers. Pugs get along well with other dogs and pets, and they behave impeccably with both children and visitors. Be sure to be your Pug's pack leader. Pugs that do not have strong human leaders can become jealous, and begin to display guarding behaviors, such as guarding furniture , food, toys, or other spots in the house. This behavior only happens when dogs are allowed to take over. These behaviors can be corrected when the owners start displaying the proper leadership. Height, Weight Height: Males 12 - 14 inches 30 - 36 cm Females 10 - 12 inches 25 - 30 cm Weight: Males 13 - 20 pounds 6 - 9 kg Females 13 - 18 pounds 6 - 8 kg Health Problems Pugs catch colds easily and are stressed by hot and cold weather. They are prone to allergies and the short muzzle contributes to chronic breathing problems, making the Pug tend to wheeze and snore. Pugs suffer from poor ventilation. Prone to skin problems. Prone to mast cell tumors. The cause is unknown. They are not the easiest whelpers. There is a chance of Keratitis inflammation of the cornea and ulcers on the cornea. Eyes are prone to weeping and cherry eye. Do not overfeed a Pug, as they will eat more than is good for them, quickly becoming obese and living much shorter lives. Living Conditions The Pug is good for apartment life. It is relatively inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. Cannot withstand hot or cold weather and should be kept indoors at a comfortable temperature. Exercise Pugs are strong dogs with short, straight legs. They need to be taken on daily walks. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. They enjoy energetic games and will keep in better health if given regular exercise. But be careful not to overdo it, especially if you see them start to wheeze. Life Expectancy About 12 to 15 years. Litter Size About 2 -6 puppies Grooming The smooth, shorthaired coat is easy to groom. Brush and comb with a firm bristle brush and shampoo only when necessary. Dry thoroughly after a bath so the dog does not get chilled. The creases on the face must be cleaned regularly. This breed is an above average shedder. Origin The Pug is one of the oldest breeds known today, believed to have originated before BC. There is somewhat of a debate over the origin of the Pug. Most researchers agree that the Pug originated from Asia, descended from a shorthaired Pekingese. Another theory is that it is the result of crossing a small Bulldog , while others speculate that it is a miniature form of the French Mastiff Dogue de Bordeaux. The artist Hogarth had a Pug named "Trump" that he often depicted in his works. The breed became popular during Victorian times in the 19th century. Tibetan monasteries kept Pugs as pets. The breed made its way to Japan and Europe, where it not only became a pet of royalty but the official dog of the House of Orange in Holland. Prince William II owned Pugs. One dog in particular was said to have saved his life in at Hermingny, when the dog barked at approaching Spaniards alerting him of their presence. On their wedding night, when Napoleon refused to allow the dog to sleep in their bed, Josephine told him, "If the Pug does not sleep in our bed, neither do I! In when the British took over the Chinese Imperial Palace, they discovered several Pugs and Pekingese, and the dogs were brought back to England with them. The AKC recognized the Pug in .Some of the Pug's talents include: watchdog and performing tricks. Nutrition and Feeding Toy dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate. They must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. Check out our dog feeding guidelines for more information. Proper nutrition along with care can contribute to a Pug lifespan reaching 15 years. Grooming Pugs The Pug grooming process is fairly easy as their coat is low maintenance, requiring a quick brush once a week. However, the wrinkles over the dog's nose will need to be cleaned daily, and the ears and eyes will also need to be checked every day. They should be taught to walk on a lead and harness — as well as learn a reliable recall — not that they generally wander far from their beloved owners! Are Pugs Good Family Dogs? Pugs make great family dogs and are ideal for those with children. Although they should avoid boisterous games, as their eyes can be prone to injury, and their breathing restrictions prohibit too much running around, especially in the heat. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them. He proved so popular that the character was expanded in the sequel made in , by which time Mashu was seven years old and needed make up to cover his grey hairs! They are one of the most irresponsibly bred and puppy-farmed breeds, leading to a huge increase in health problems. Not everyone loves Pugs however. While Josephine, wife of Napoleon, adored her Pug called Fortune, and insisted they slept in her bed, her husband was not so enamoured. He hated all dogs from then on and was convinced they brought him bad luck. The German word for Pug is Mops. A group of Pugs is called a grumble. FAQs Can a Pug be left alone? Do Pugs bark a lot? Do Pugs like to sleep with their owners? Pugs are people-oriented so they will adore spending as much time with their owners as possible, even while sleeping. Do Pugs bite? Similar Breeds:.

Lab puppies are energetic little learners eager to run, swim, and fetch. Although active, they also tend to overeat and gulp down their food. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, healthy growth, weight management, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed puppy. Whether you have a Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, or Black Lab, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Labrador Retriever puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. The unique donut-shaped kibble is specially designed to help your fast eater slow down and actually chew. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong. Calcium and phosphorus support healthy bone structure, while a balanced energy content helps them maintain an ideal weight. Once your Lab puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Read more Promoting pet health and wellbeing Creating value for our entire ecosystem Committed to become certified carbon neutral by Cookie Settings. Pricing offered online may not be the same as that offered in-store. It if free and instant to join. Access to member pricing, instore and online. Access our convenient Repeat Delivery service to save even more. Access to online member pricing, its free and instant to join Earn points on every dollar spent at Petbarn, Greencross Vets or petbarn. Enter your details with Afterpay. Your order will be shipped as normal. Your nominated card will be automatically charged every fortnight in 4 equal repayments. This formula supports Labrador puppy's natural defences and digestive health, promoting a balance in the intestinal flora. The kibble's shape, size, texture and formula are adapted to the Labrador puppy. During this key period, the puppy's immune system develops gradually. This diuset helps support your puppy's natural defences thanks particularly to a complex of antioxidants including vitamin E. Each of our products is based on our extensive knowledge of dogs, gained through over 50 years of scientific research and partnerships with leading veterinarians, universities and breeders across the world. BENEFITS Formulating the best pet food in the world is no simple task - Each of our dog food formulas are made up of over 40 nutrients for dogs of different sizes, ages, breeds, lifestyles and with specific needs. We take the size, shape, texture and density into consideration when developing our kibble and tailor it to the specific characteristics of the dog for which it is intended. Kibble impacts dental health, digestion, satisfaction and palatability. We deliver on all of our commitments, ensuring the utmost satisfaction for pets and their owners. In we become a fully sustainable business sending zero waste to landfill at every one of our production facilities. Dr Cathary had a vision for a pet food company grounded in science; a brand that acquires knowledge about pets, maintains respect for them at all times, and creates innovative, super premium nutrition to satisfy the needs of the pet. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Puppy dry dog food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Labrador Retrievers 8 weeks to 15 months old. Exclusive donut-shaped kibble designed specifically to help large breed Labrador Retriever puppies chew and eat food slowly. Promotes healthy growth of bone structure and weight management with precise mineral content and a balanced energy intake. Aids digestion with high-quality proteins and prebiotics to promote optimal stool quality. Royal Canin knows what makes your Labrador Retriever puppy magnificent is in the details. Lab puppies are energetic little learners eager to run, swim, and fetch. Although active, they also tend to overeat and gulp down their food. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, healthy growth, weight management, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed puppy. Whether you have a Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, or Black Lab, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Labrador Retriever puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. The unique donut-shaped kibble is specially designed to help your fast eater slow down and actually chew. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong. Calcium and phosphorus support healthy bone structure, while a balanced energy content helps them maintain an ideal weight. Once your Lab puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Deliveries are usually made on the above days between the hours of — .Whilst we cannot guarantee that this will be possible, we will do our very best and notify you accordingly. Currently we do not make deliveries outside the island of Jersey, however should you have a requirement for this, please Contact Us! Other Products You May Like.