german shepherd puppy must haves

If you normally feed your dog once in the morning and once in the evening, add in one more meal right before bed. Start by feeding them the same amount spread out over more meals. If this does not help them gain weight, you may need to give them more food, adding a quarter to half a cup per meal. This type of feeding schedule allows your dog to nibble a little whenever they are hungry or bored, which may help them eat more overall. Keep in mind that free-feeding may not work for your dog. For some dogs, the excitement of getting their food at certain times during the day makes them eat more than if it was available to them all the time. Treats should not be a primary calorie source for your dog. Giving them a few extra treats throughout the day, though, can help your German Shepherd gain some weight. Some dogs find treats from your fridge to be more appealing than treats from a bag. Give your German Shepherd small amounts of cooked chicken mixed with rice, a spoonful of peanut butter, a scrambled egg, or some apple slices every day in addition to their normal food. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. A sprinkle of rice, a couple heaping spoonfuls of pumpkin, a bit of wet food, or a big spoonful of peanut butter mixed in with dry food could intrigue your dog into eating. Coconut oil has a lot of calories, and it's easy for dogs to digest. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Do you want to know how to fatten up a German Shepherd to make them gain weight in a healthy way? Are you worried that your German Shepherd is thin and underweight and want to know how to bulk up a German Shepherd for safe weight-gain? Is Your German Shepherd Underweight? Your dog should have a trim, athletic appearance. They are large breed dogs with fast metabolisms that are active and energetic in their daily lives. Fit German Shepherds may at first seem slightly underweight. They are lean, athletic dogs with a strong, firm figure and you should avoid learning how to make a German Shepherd fat. Instead, you want to bulk-up your German Shepherd to make them fit. But if you see their ribs protruding or their hip bones raised and easily felt when petting, this is a sign of being underweight. You should first check with your vet for possible medical issues. You want to know if they are gaining weight, losing weight, or remaining the same. This helps you to decide if your weight gain plan is working — or if you need to adjust your plan. If your dog continues losing weight or if you see a lack of progress, take your dog back to your veterinarian. You need to see this as a long term plan and not an overnight fix to get your German Shepherd fat and by fat, I mean bulk-up not obese or overweight. Look for foods that have a higher percentage of fat and protein than your current food. Adults and seniors should eat about 20 to 25 percent of their daily calories from protein and 25 to 50 percent from fats. The rest of the calories should come from carbohydrates. This is anywhere from 8 months to a year or longer. Change to Puppy or High-Performance Food If you have an adult dog, switch them to a puppy or high-performance dog food to help them gain healthy weight. Both puppy and high-performance also known as a working breed food is higher in calories to support complex energy needs and sustained growth. Puppy foods generally have added nutrients to support puppy growth which can help your underweight German Shepherd gain weight and fatten up in a controlled manner — which is what you want. Mixing regular adult and puppy or high-performance food helps your GSD gain weight and fat in a regulated manner. For More Calories Feed Dry Kibble Dry kibble dog food generally has more calories if you want your dog to gain weight. Dry kibble is denser and contains more calories than wet food because the moisture has been removed from dry foods. Therefore, dry food has up to 4 times the number of calories as the same amount of wet food — dry kibble is a weight gaining powerhouse! If your dog is currently eating wet meals, then try mixing in some dry food with their wet food to help stimulate weight gain. Wet foods may taste better to your dog, so mixing in the dry foods with the wet still encourages your dog to eat in order to not lose more weight. Look for dry food with higher protein and fats to encourage weight gain in a healthy manner and go with one of the foods mentioned above for fat gain that is healthy. Begin by feeding your dog a bit more of their current food spread out over one more meal per day. Add a quarter to half a cup of extra food per meal. You can also take their regular feeding and the additional food and increase their feeding schedule to four times per day, splitting the food equally at each feeding. If your German Shepherd is picky about when they eat, then it may help to leave food out for them all the time. This is called free feeding. Dogs who can free feed tend to gain more weight than dogs fed on a schedule. Free feeding allows your dog the chance to eat a little whenever they are hungry or bored. This type of feeding may help them eat more overall. But only use free feeding with dry food, since wet foods spoil when left out for more than a couple hours. They may follow you around rather than eat when you offer their food bowl — this may be especially true of Shepherds since they tend to get fixated on their caretaker. But, just keeping your dog company while they eat may stimulate their appetite. Find a comfortable spot to sit and wait on your dog while they eat. Bring a book or do a quiet activity while they eat close to you. Simply sit with them and enjoy your time together while they eat. Keep the treats handy and offer them to help get extra calories into your dog. Adding these foods into their regular kibble may also entice them to eat more of their dry dog food, which can help an underweight puppy or adult. They also add extra calories which are healthy and nutritious. To get your dog more interested in their food, try sprinkling on a topping to their usual meals. You can even buy healthy toppers that are easy to add. Seniors, adults, and puppies all have various nutritional concerns. Most commercial and pre-made dog foods specify their intended age range on the packaging and state what groups the food is aimed at feeding. Underfeeding a German Shepherd puts your dog at a serious health risk. You need to make sure they get enough food for their age and energy needs. Puppies generally eat almost double the number of calories an adult dog needs, so be sure to check out this post on what amount to feed a German Shepherd puppy to keep them healthy. While a senior GSD may eat significantly fewer calories, if they are losing weight or underweight and a vet has been consulted, they may need extra feedings or food to help them gain the weight back. German Shepherds thrive on consistent physical activity. Walking and swimming are activities that build muscle and are lower impact and less intense on their joints and bones. They can be done every day to keep your dog active and help them to maintain their muscle mass. But these two exercises can be performed at a lower intensity so that even older dogs and puppies can enjoy their benefits make sure your puppy can swim first. Keeping muscle mass is important to prevent wasting and help maintain their health and mobility, as well as their athletic appearance. Try walking up hills to improve muscle growth or a gentle game of tug using a spring pole in which your dog can start and stop on their own. Some of the herbs used to increase human appetite are also safe for use in dogs. Dandelion is available in this for-1 multivitamin , along with other herbal supplements to make your GSD gain weight. B vitamins are natural appetite stimulants and are readily available over the counter and online. Visit Your Vet Regularly Always see your vet regularly. Regular vet appointments are especially important for your underweight German Shepherd. Your vet will use your notes to help make medical adjustments, as necessary, and to give you the right tips and advice. Helping Your German Shepherd Gain Weight Knowing how to fatten up a German Shepherd can help you and your dog achieve their ideal weight and maintain this healthy condition. There are many reasons why your dog or puppy may not be gaining weight. But there are also ways to help your dog at home to become healthier and have more energy. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. It can be a minor issue or flat-out hazardous. So, we applaud you for trying to learn why you have a skinny German Shepherd. Excessive Exercise It could be likely that your skinny male German Shepherd is overly active and getting a lot of exercise. More work means more food, not just any food but those high in calories. Dental Issues We often let dental problems in our dogs go unnoticed. It can be a sore, abscess, ulcer, or even broken teeth and gum infections. It can cause weight loss over time or even spread to other areas in the body if not treated quickly. Health problems that affect their weight can range widely. Parasites and worms are common issues in many dogs, while more severe problems like cancer and heart disease also cause unusual weight loss. Look for other symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and dizziness as they usually accompany weight loss when the dog suffers from a serious health issue. Your dog can get undesirable effects too. Not getting enough attention, training , exercise, or not socializing enough can lead to anxiety in your dog. Other causes include moving to a new home and bringing home a new pet. Think about what might be causing stress in your dog and consider how you can improve its overall living quality. Genetics Sometimes, the reason for a skinny German Shepherd can be as simple as its genetic factor. Most working German Shepherds are lean, so your dog will most probably be skinny because it is from this bloodline. Try to recollect how it looked when it was younger. Aging causes dental problems and appetite loss, which makes them skinny. However, it can also be because of deeper health problems brought about by aging, like cancer. Here are some effective options you can consider: Visit the Vet The foremost thing to do when your German Shepherd is suddenly losing weight is to see a vet. Consider Puppy Food Puppy food contains ingredients that help puppies grow rapidly and healthily. Try feeding puppy food to your older dog to let it gain weight. However, consult with the vet before implementing this step to ensure safety. Try Wet Food German Shepherds with dental problems will benefit tremendously from wet food. It is much easier to consume, making your pet want to eat more. Let Them Eat When They Want German Shepherd parents who cannot make time to give them multiple meals daily should consider leaving the food out for them to eat anytime. Leave dry food instead of wet food, as they will remain fresh for longer. Homemade Treats Might Help Making treats for your dog at home ensures a healthier diet. Cheese and peanut butter are great options. While buying them, make sure to look for those high in calories. Note: Steer clear of grapes and chocolates while preparing homemade treats for your GSD. It can also relieve you to know that your pooch is gaining weight, even if slowly. The Takeaway Whether you have a skinny female German Shepherd or a male one, seeing them lose weight can be disheartening. While some breeds are lean by nature, a variety of underlying health issues might be causing it. Take it to the vet to rule out all possibilities, or treat them ASAP. You can also help your dog gain back weight by following the above measures. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. So too will a GSD that is consuming low-quality food in general. Getting the calories right! Moderately active German shepherds need around calories per day, whereas highly active German shepherds need around calories per day. Highly active working GSDs may even need upwards of calories. Either the quality of the food is fine, but the portion sizes are too small too few calories , or the quality of the kibble is lacking. Again, this ties into calorie consumption. If your GSD is super active over 3 hours of exercise a day , she will likely need calories per day. Health issues In most cases, health issues are the cause of sudden weight loss. Health issues that affect weight can range from harmless and treatable all the way to serious, even fatal issues rarer. Common problems like worms and parasites particularly in puppies can cause weight loss. Rarer and more serious things like heart disease and cancer can also cause weight loss. Health problems usually always come with multiple symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, dizziness, or any noticeable change from her normal self. If this is the case, then it would be evident right from puppyhood. If you were lucky enough to see the mum and other puppies in the litter, they would have all been similarly skinny. Some GSDs are just smaller than others. Stress and anxiety Just as stress can have many undesirable effects on us, it can do the same with our furry friends, too, weight loss being one of them. Common reasons include spending too much time alone, not receiving enough exercise, attention, or training. Additionally, it could be down to a change in their environment like moving homes, new neighbors, or even the addition of a household pet. Consider your GSDs overall quality of life, basic needs and think about the possibility of them being stressed. Bad eating habits Fussy eating is something many owners have to deal with at some point. The issue is that this could be the cause of weight loss. Once again, it comes back down to the calories in versus the calories out. I have an entire article dedicated to why your GSD might be refusing their food. Dental issues If your GSD is suffering from any kind of dental complaint, this could cause them to refuse their food and lose out on calories. So I think it deserves its own section. In fact, this was actually what happened with my GSD when she was 7. After refusing her food and simultaneously losing weight, I checked her mouth to find some serious gum irritation thankfully not gum disease. We got that resolved with the help of our veterinarian, and her appetite came back right away. Aside from using the scales, one of the best ways to know if your GSD is underweight or not is to simply feel them and look at their waistline. Ribs Run your hand along their side with light pressure. You should be able to feel their ribs a little this is normal! Waistline Waistline abdominal tuck should be noticeable but not extreme. Check out this chart from Petcarerx source. If the weight loss has happened suddenly for no obvious reason, it is advised to see a vet. Important note: If you suspect your GSD is losing weight for an alternative reason like stress or dental issues, the best solution would be to address those issues instead of adjusting their diet. Always consider the cause first. Add wet dog food My all-time favorite way to stop fussy eating while adding a boost of nutrition and calories is to mix in a small amount of wet dog food to their kibble. This is a known and safe method that veterinarians recommend to help with weight gain. Mix in some wet dog food preferably the same brand , and your GSD will likely benefit from this greatly. Add it once a day or every other day. This will enhance the flavor and beat most cases of fussy eating. Just ensure the meat broth you use is a healthy option without a high salt content or artificial flavorings or additives. Increase portion size Assuming you are already using a high-quality kibble and your GSD is getting on well with it no digestive issues or diarrhea , then it could be a simple matter of increasing the portion size. Be sure to check the back of the bag and work out how many calories you are adding. This is a noticeable difference for a dog, so you should see some changes in weight over weeks. Avoid giving too many treats Although we are trying to add calories and encourage weight gain, treats are not the solution to this. Especially if your GSD is refusing the food anyway. These brands focus on high-quality ingredients that are fresh and close to their natural state. Brands like these also prioritize protein and fat over carbohydrates, which is an instant sign of higher quality. Inferior brands are known to use carbs to bulk out their food while keeping prices cheap. In addition to this, canines, in general, are better adapted to eating a wild diet. Wild diets are high in protein and fat while low on carbs. This results in better digestion and absorption of the food they are eating. Just remember to change foods gradually over the course of days, phasing out the old and incorporating more of the new. This should prevent stomach upset. Additional articles that may help:. Tweet We get a lot of questions from German Shepherd owners about how to keep weight on their pups. Chronically skinny, underweight Shepherds can be heartbreaking for an owner who is desperate to put weight on them. What do I do? Schnauzers can have this problem too. So what is it? Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency or EPI is a condition in which the pancreas is not able to produce adequate enzymes to digest and absorb food properly. To determine if this is the case with your shepherd, make an appointment with your veterinarian and request some blood testing. Shepherds are also susceptible to pancreatitis so it's important that you think preventatively! So what can you do if your shepherd has EPI? Your first line of defense as a pet owner is choosing the type of food and supplements you put into your shepherd. Try the following: Provide as many dietary enzymes as possible. Our recommendation is by feeding a raw diet. Raw meat, bones, organs, and juiced veggies combined will contain all the necessary enzymes for better digestive function. By relieving the pancreas of having to produce additional enzymes you can prevent pancreatic inflammation Pancreatitis. Shepherds that are fed only processed or cooked diets are often missing these vital nutrients. Suggestion: A rotation of our 3P veggies 1 and 4 is a great way to give natural-source vitamins and minerals as well as metabolic support for a dog suffering from a pancreatic disease. This may be a bit gross for some, but excellent for your pup! Add a good portion of raw, green tripe to the diet. Green tripe, an animal stomach that smells horrible, but it works! If fed raw not canned it contains the highest levels of digestive enzymes available in a natural form. Wild canines eat the stomach of their prey first because of this fact. Your shepherd will benefit too. Us it as a supplement on top of regular food portions. Ensure you are purchasing freshly frozen, grass-fed tripe. Provide a canine-specific digestive enzyme supplement that includes ox bile and a variety of other digestive enzymes. This will also provide some extra digestive support. Start slowly and build up to a full dosage if your shepherd is experiencing regular diarrhea. Keeping the gut flora in good working order will help your dog to absorb as many nutrients as possible. Good bacteria in the gut will also help with enzyme production, so don't leave the good bacteria out! Look for canine-specific, high potency, multi-strain probiotics with a pre-biotic added. Feed a lean, low-fat raw diet. High-fat diets can overwork the pancreas and the liver and are not recommended for shepherds with EPI or other pancreatic dysfunction. High-quality lean protein will help pack on the pounds for shepherds having difficulty gaining weight. Steer clear of lamb, duck, and other naturally high-fat meats. Cook yams or squash to add as low-glycemic carbohydrates. Cooked yams and squash are more nutritious and easier to digest than other forms of carbohydrate, such as rice or oatmeal. Also yams and squash pair better with the digestibility of raw foods. Remove the skin, unless vegetables are organic then you can keep the skins on. Make all dietary changes slowly and add one thing at a time. Your veterinarian can check for worms with a stool sample. Certain types of worms such as roundworms can be fatal in puppies if left untreated, so it is crucial that you take your puppy for regular checkups. Has your Puppy Been Traveling Regularly? If you feel that your GSD puppy is too skinny, consider if you have been taking it along for car rides on a consistent basis. Many puppies experience motion sickness. This does not necessarily mean that they will vomit or have an upset stomach only. Some puppies will do neither, and instead, decrease their eating to the point of losing weight. If this is the case, limit the amount of time your puppy spends traveling in a car. This will allow your puppy to have you as a reference point and a distraction. Provide a small puppy bed on the seat. Make sure that the temperature in the car is neither too hot or cold. Pay attention to how you drive. Often times we take our driving for granted without considering the comfort of our passengers. Puppies can be especially sensitive during car rides, so be sure to take turns gently, and do not brake or accelerate suddenly. A change in the environment is a common cause of a longer-term loss of appetite and weight loss in puppies. A change in environment for your puppy does not just mean that it has moved from one physical location to another. They learn and function well with routine. This can sometimes result in a long term lack of appetite and weight loss. You may likely find that if one or more of the above changes are addressed, that your puppy will resume a normal eating schedule and quickly bounce back from being underweight. Your GSD puppy needs adequate nutrients in its diet for growth and to maintain a healthy weight. GSDs are considered medium to large-sized dogs, and they need to be fed the appropriate breed-formulated dog food, especially as puppies. If you are not feeding it the right formulation for its breed size, this can result in undernourishment and a skinny puppy.

Okay so I absolutely love this game, because my boyfriend won't let me have an actual puppy I enjoy being able to play Growing Pug and my bf actually asked how my pups are doing lol. But the only thing I don't like it, there's not much to do. I wish we could decorate the room a little more, rearrange it, buy a couch or some pug wall decor, some more things to be able to spend birds on. I also have two pugs and I wish they could actually play together more, or play with other animals. One time they slept in the same bed and it was absolutely adorable! I am only writing this review because I am extremely upset! I loved this app, however, logging on after a day without my phone and finding my little pug dead was totally disturbing! He looks like a deflated balloon! You can pay. My suggestion, if you want people's. It would be much less traumatic! I am an avid pug lover with several of my own, so this really upset me! Cartoon or not, a dead animal, especially a pug which we all love so dearly, is portrayed as dead, it's so disturbing. Really hoping they can change this to a less morbid method. Only rating this 5 stars in hopes to get it seen and hopefully fixed! For the love of dog owners everywhere, change this aspect please! There really isn't a lot to do, it's turned into a game were I go on it for about two minutes just to take care of my pug and then leave and not touch it for about two or three hours. I don't think this should've costed money to download, especially since the only way you can really grow in the game is buying the in-app purchases. I don't want to be considered a hater, I'm just reviewing the app like I've been repeatedly and annoyingly asked by the game while trying to spend my two minutes taking care of my pug. Literally, it asked me about six times. That's the only reason I'm doing this. It better freaking stop now. No Details Provided The developer will be required to provide privacy details when they submit their next app update. As long as you feed your dog this fruit in moderation and avoid feeding them the core, seeds, stems, and leaves, it is completely safe. Regardless of the benefits of feeding Pugs apples, if they eat too much, your dog can experience some possible side effects. Even if you take all the necessary precautions, your Pug may still experience some possible side effects from eating apples or other types of fruits and veggies. One of the most common adverse digestive issues from dogs consuming apples is an upset tummy, especially, if they eat too much. This can cause your dog to suffer from a bout of diarrhea, or even vomiting. If fed too much, over a long period of time, it can also lead to diabetes and weight gain. Some possible warning signs of diabetes are excessive thirst and urination. As I mentioned above, there are over varieties of apples. According to a Canadian study, the Northern Spy and Ida Red apples have high amounts of antioxidants, which can be beneficial to your pooch. You may want to avoid feeding your dog a Granny apple, because of their high acidity level. These can be used when baking some apple treats for your dog. Always stick to feeding your dog cooked or raw apples only. Never feed them any type of apple desserts or sugary foods that contain apples. Can Pugs Eat Apple Leaves? No, there are no benefits of feeding your dog the leaves on an apple. The leaves can contain pesticides and can make both you and your dog sick. Although they have been used as herbal remedies in the past, they should never be fed to your dog. The skin is NOT toxic for your dog and is actually quite fibrous. The downside is that it can be difficult for your dog to chew and swallow. NEVER feed your dog apple seeds! Apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which is a toxic substance. You also want to keep your dog from eating the core and stem, as it poses a choking hazard. Can Dogs Drink Apple Juice? The only thing your dog needs to stay hydrated is fresh, clean filtered water. Before you give your Pug apple juice , make sure you know the best kind to give them. Can Dogs Eat Applesauce? Applesauce is such a popular treat among adults, children, and even infants. Some people even use it as a fat substitute in baking. But is it actually safe for your dog? Yes, as long as it is fed to your pooch in moderation. In fact, some people believe applesauce is safer for your dog because they can swallow it easily. One container grams contains 22 grams of sugars, which is extremely high. If you are going to feed your dog applesauce, you may want to make your own. Use this table as a quick glance to find out which parts of an apple your dog should or should not eat. Flesh Yes, this is the only part they should eat. Leaves No, they are NOT safe for your pooch. Seeds No, they contain trace amounts of cyanide. Stems No, the stems may contain pesticides and should never be fed to your dog. This makes it easier to see which parts are safe for Fido to eat. The different parts of an apple, which includes the seeds, core, flesh, skin, and stem. Okay, now that you understand which parts of the apple are safe for your Pug and the benefits. Every dog is different and some may eat it right from your hand. If your dog is a picky eater, you may need to search for some recipes you can use to make some doggie apple treats. Follow these steps to ensure they eat this fruit safely. Wash The Apple Before you or your dog eat apples, you should wash them thoroughly. Remove the skin or at least most of it as it can be difficult for your dog to swallow. Always remove the seeds and the core before feeding your dog. The white flesh is the safest part for your dog to eat! Recipes for Dogs There are literally dog apple recipes online. Spend a few minutes online to find apple recipes for your dog. There is no shortage of recipes you can try out that I am sure your four-legged friend will love. Some dogs prefer eating cooked apples as opposed to raw apples. Dogs tend to find cooked apples yummy, especially, when you combine other fruits and veggies that are safe for dogs like peanut butter and eggs to make them special treats. So how much is too much? Conclusion Can Pugs Eat Apples? Yes, Pugs can eat apples. Apples are highly nutritious and are a good fruit to be included as treats. Can Pugs Eat Apples? Fresh fruits and veggies are a terrific way of filling them up without needlessly adding calories. Despite its taste and all the benefits that the fruit offers, it is still important to give it to your pug in moderation. You can start feeding apples to your Pug as early as they reach one month old. Puppies grow fast and need extra nutrients for their developing bones, muscles, and organs. However, you need to consider that fruits should be given in moderation and not as their main meal. This said you can only give slices of apples to your puppy as a delicious and nutritious snack. You want to know: What do pugs eat? Turns out that this applies to dogs, too. It also acts just like a toothbrush and removes plaque that is inserted between the teeth. This gives them more favorable dental health and fresher breath. Good source of fiber: Apples are rich in Pectin. It is a type of fiber found in the cell walls of plants that gives the fruit its structure. Pectin is known for keeping the guts clean and making sure your bowels pass along smoothly. Aside from that, it may also lower cholesterol and blood pressure. They are also a good source of Calories, Carbohydrates, and Potassium. Furthermore, apples are rich in antioxidants that help prevent cancer and any symptoms of joint disease. How to Serve Apple to Your Pug While apples may be highly beneficial to your Pug, you cannot just give away the whole fruit. The seeds contain minute amounts of cyanide which is highly poisonous. The core is also firm and most dogs find it hard to chew. Because of this, it may cause choking or even cause gastrointestinal blockage if swallowed. To prevent any of these from happening, make sure to do the following steps before giving a slice of apple to your dog. Make sure to clean the apple with water. Afterward, peel most of the skin off as the skin might be difficult for your dogs to swallow. Lastly, cut the apple into thin slices and make sure to remove all of the seeds and the core to prevent any injuries to your dog. Alternatives to Apples If you run out of apples or you want to feed your dog a variety of fruits, here are some other fruits to consider: Alternatives to Apples For Pugs Blackberry. We live in a charming rural community in the beautiful High Desert of Nevada. My husband; Gene and I are retired, so when a litter of puppies come into our lives, we dedicate ourselves to taking the best care of our Pug babies. We absolutely love each and every one of our Pugs. We do everything we can to make sure our Momma Pug's health is well maintained all year round, taking special measures during their pregnancies by keeping them on a proper diet, in order to whelp very healthy, robust pups. When it's time to deliver, we're at her side, comforting and supporting her in every way. Giving each pup our Human Imprinting from the moment they're born. Adding to the high caliber of quality, Our pups are hand raised in our home from the time they're born, to the time they are placed with their families. We shower them with lots of love and attention, socializing and preparing them for a long life of loyal companionship. We teach them to go potty outside weather permitting. They're crate trained which is great for traveling, or a safe place to put them while you're out of the house, and a cozy spot for bedtime. We take our pups on car rides to get them used to traveling as well. We're always in search of better ways to bring up a litter, and over time have found some wonderful methods and wiser ways of doing things. We learn from every litter. We have some of the best looking Pugs around. We take great care to keep our line within the Pug standard, no ultra bulging eyes in this line. We hear from our Sweet Apple families that received a Pug from us in the past, and still get pictures as well as from our new families that just got their puppy home. It's a goal we strive to meet with every puppy. We have 1 to 3 litters in a year. We do not over breed our Momma Pugs. We do have a Future placement list, so when a litter is due, we send emails to all those on the list that we have interviewed, before we place an ad on the web. Placing a puppy before they are born or soon after their birth is ideal. Our puppies are wormed with some of the best formula on the market and are up to date on their shots when they go to their new homes at 8 weeks old. To take some of the burden off our Sweet Apple family, we do offer, for a nominal travel fee, to meet those that are coming a long way to pick up their puppy. We do offer shipping as well. Our pups are shipped on Continental Airlines. Arrangements must be made well in advance, due to the pup needing: approval to fly, a health certificate from the Vet, purchasing of an airline approved crate, an airline ticket, along with setting up a time that the new family can be at their airport to pick up their puppy. All of our puppies have arrived to their families safely and in good health. Shipping is extra. We can't tell you enough wonderful things about having a Pug as part of your family. As far as we're concerned, Pugs are the best breed you could possibly have for a companion. They already love you, all you have to do is love them back. With a lot of Patience and a Nurturing style of teaching, our Pugs turn out to be very smart, confident and so very loving, it almost breaks my heart to see them go. They are such a blessing in our lives and in turn we take great joy in bringing a blessing into the lives of others, through them. We appreciate your interest in our Sweet Apple Pugs and hope we can assist you in your search for that perfect Pug puppy for you.

Intelligent Sweet Because Dobermans and Poodles have such wildly different temperaments, if you want to adopt one, you should find out as much as you can about the pup in question. This is one of the big advantages of adopting from a rescue; the rescue coordinators and foster pet parents will have been working with the Doberdoodle and will know more about how they react to different situations. Some of the puppies were good with other dogs; others were shy. These dogs can be amazing companions, but you do have to socialize them a lot as puppies to help them be comfortable around other animals. Doberdoodle Size Doberdoodle size can vary widely depending on the size of the Poodle parent. Doberdoodles are usually between 60 and 80 pounds, although 90 pounds or more is possible. They are usually about inches tall at the shoulder. However, even crossbreeds have health conditions to look out for. Here are some of the most common health concerns that affect Poodles and Dobermans. Do you want to make a Doberdoodle your next best friend? The best place to find one of these crossbreeds is actually going to be a Doberman rescue! Doodle and Poodle rescues may take them in as well, but because there are a lot more Doodles than Dobermans out there, rescues and fosters that focus on Dobermans are likely to be more knowledgeable about these dogs. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from dog lovers about them! How big does a Doberdoodle get? Doberdoodles can get fairly large. Dobermans are between 24 and 28 inches tall at the shoulder. Males should weigh between 75 and pounds, while females should weigh between 60 and 90 pounds. Standard Poodles are slightly smaller than Dobermans. Fully grown males weigh between 60 and 70 pounds, while fully grown females weigh 40 to 50 pounds. Both males and females should be at least 15 inches tall at the shoulder. Doberdoodles with Standard Poodle parentage will fall somewhere in this range. Are Doberdoodles hypoallergenic? No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Poodle dander, like Poodle hair, gets trapped in the tight curl of their coat, so Poodles may be less likely to trigger dog allergies. However, this is not necessarily the case for Doberdoodles. What 2 dogs make a Doberdoodle? The Doberdoodle is a cross between the Doberman Pinscher and the Poodle. Do Doberman Poodle mixes shed? All dogs shed, even purebred Poodles. This is why you need to frequently brush dogs with this coat texture; otherwise, their hair forms mats. Some Doberdoodles have this curly coat; others do not. What is the best food for a Doberdoodle? Doberdoodles are large, energetic, athletic dogs, and they need good nutrition that can support them. As a large breed, raw food is a great choice. A high-quality raw diet can provide many benefits, such as better improved digestion, cleaner teeth, and a softer, healthier coat. We recommend the brand We Feed Raw! What are the best toys for a Doberdoodle? Doberdoodles are smart and tenacious dogs, so puzzle toys and heavy-duty, chew-resistant toys are a good choice for this breed. Doberdoodles also need lots of room to run and play and appreciate going on long walks. The three foods that are super healthy and that almost every dog loves, even the pickiest dogs, are: 1. There are a number of fresh frozen dog foods available on the market and I tested them all. You can see the fresh frozen food test here. We sometimes earn money when you click an affiliate link and make a purchase. This is at no extra cost to you and helps us to create quality content. Thank you so very much for your support. The Doberdoodle is a hybrid breed, that is a mix of Dobermans and Poodles, that is known to respond very well to training and provides protection for families. The Doberdoodle is not a registered dog breed with the American Kennel Club. Many refer to it simple as a Doberman poodle mix. When trying to trace the exact origin of the Doberdoodle, many come up short. A Doberdoodle puppy is much like other puppies, it needs proper nutrition, healthy boundaries, house training, and obedience training. Many people search out a doberdoodle breeder if they are looking for a security dog that also makes an excellent family pet. They can be described as an active dog, tenacious with a stubborn streak and a loving dog protective of its family unit. Many associate the Doberman with military use and police dogs. Doberman owners found they make excellent guard dogs. The cornerstone of high-class Doberman breeding in America was laid by Annagret II v Thueringen and female Claudius v Thueringen, two of the first quality Dobermans imported to the United States in .The Doberman is a highly protective dog and dedicated to its family making them great family dogs. They are loyal companions that will come across indifferent to strangers. Another dog breed native to Germany is the Standard Poodle. They have long history with the American Kennel Club and were accepted as an official breed in .People were drawn to their intelligence and beauty. They also make wonderful water dog that were often trained as duck and bird hunting dogs. Physical Characteristics of the Doberdoodle Now the Doberdoodle breed is considered a unique designer breed. Dog owners are attracted to its short coat and floppy ears. Dog owners could get a Doberdoodle puppy that favors the appearance or personality of either parent. Doberman genes allow for the coat to be smooth medium-length coat. While the standard Poodle genes will pass down a curly and long coat. The coat variations of the Doberman Poodle mix can be black, tan, red, grey, or a combination of those colors. Each dog is different, however most have either a tan, black or brown muzzle. One feature of both the Doberman parent and Poodle parent is a long neck. The Doberdoodle could have a deep chest characteristic of the Poodle or the strong muscular build favoring the Doberman. The head features almond shaped eyes that can be brown or hazel with droopy ears. The parent breeds also pass down whether or not the Doberdoodle will have the smooth coat of the Doberman or a curly coat of the Poodle. Is the Doberdoodle hypoallergic? If you are highly allergic to dog hair and dander, this might not be the best breed for you. Although the Doberman Pincher is low shedding as the hair loss is minimal, it still daily loses hair and dander. The curly coat of the Poodle still requires regular grooming even though it sheds very little hair on a daily basis. This Doberman Poodle mix can be best described as a medium to large dog that has a long muzzle and floppy ears. The coat can be curly or medium long depending on the dominant genes. The brown eyes and bushy eyebrows give this dog a playful appearance. Dog owners have been attracted to this mixed breed as it is known to be courageous and confident. The mixed breed dog has a calm temperament making it suitable for people that like to be active with their dog. Dog owners love that the Doberdoodle can be affectionate and a wonderful loyal companion. Another plus is the Doberman genes make this mixed breed a good guard dog. One of the lesser desirable traits is separation anxiety. It is not uncommon for doodles to experience separation anxiety when they see their owners prepare to leave the house. If left unattended for long periods of time, the puppy can develop bad habits and begin to chew on furniture and other household items. As with any dog, training is an essential part of raising a well-behaved and obedient Doberdoodle. Here are some important considerations for training a Doberdoodle. Firstly, socialization is crucial for Doberdoodles. They need to learn how to interact appropriately with other dogs and people to avoid aggression or fear-based behavior. Early socialization with positive reinforcement techniques is highly recommended to ensure that the Doberdoodle develops into a confident and friendly dog. Thirdly, leash training is essential to ensure that the Doberdoodle can be taken for walks without pulling or running away. It is also important to train them to come when called, particularly in case of emergency situations. Fourthly, crate training can be helpful in housebreaking and providing a safe and comfortable space for the Doberdoodle to retreat to when necessary. Lastly, advanced training can be beneficial for Doberdoodles that are used for activities such as therapy work, agility, or obedience competitions. Specialized training can help to develop skills specific to the activity and strengthen the bond between owner and dog. Doberdoodle Health Conditions Before bringing a dog into your life, learn about any breed specific health problems. Every dog breed is genetically predisposed to certain health issues. The Doberdoodle, a Doberman Pinscher Poodle mix, is no exception. The Doberman Pinscher is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Some common health issues that can affect Doberman Pinschers include: Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM This is a heart condition that affects the ability of the heart muscle to pump blood that leads to eventual heart failure. Doberman Pinschers are particularly susceptible to this condition. Dogs can exhibit symptoms such as excessive panting, lethargy, and improper breathing. Dog owners might notice stiffness in the neck, uncoordinated gait, and weakness in limbs. As with all dog breeds, Poodles are susceptible to various health conditions, some of which are an inherited condition and some of which are acquired. Here are some common health conditions that Poodles may be prone to: Hip Dysplasia As mentioned, this is a genetic condition that affects the hip bones and can cause pain, limping, and arthritis. Eye Problems Poodles are prone to several eye problems, including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and glaucoma. Ear Infections Poodles have long, floppy ears that can trap moisture and lead to ear infections if not cleaned regularly. Skin Issues Poodles can be prone to skin allergies and skin infections, especially if they have a thick or curly coat that is not properly groomed. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus as known as Bloat This is a life-threatening condition in which the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow to the organs. Poodles are at increased risk for bloat due to their deep chest. Symptoms could include vomiting, visible pain, inability to burp, and restlessness. This can be life threatening if not noticed right away. Epilepsy Poodles can be prone to epilepsy, a neurological disorder that causes seizures. Training Your Doberdoodle When people decide to add a dog into their life, they should expect that it will need some form of training. Dogs need to know boundaries both in the home and outside the home. Participating in a puppy obedience class will allow your new Doberdoodle to begin learning to become a well-mannered adult dog. Doberdoodles exercise requirements are versatile as they enjoy changing things up with walks in the neighborhood, swimming, hiking, and running. As the hybrid mix of two very intelligent breeds, they like brain games and challenging dog puzzles. These dogs can be trained to participate in canine scent sports which appeals to their natural instincts. Keep in mind the Poodle parent breed was once trained to be a bird and gun dog. They respond well to obedience training, and some might enjoy retrieving. Grooming Your Doberdoodle Dog owners usually like to bath their Doberdoodle once a month to keep the skin and coat healthy. Professional dog groomers can advise on additional grooming recommendations. Brushing: Doberdoodles have a thick, wavy coat that needs to be brushed from daily to at least once a week to prevent matting and tangling. You may also need to brush them more frequently during shedding season. Two tools that work well are a wire slicker brush and a metal comb. Both parent breeds have a single coat which allows for minimal shedding. Bathing: Doberdoodles do not need to be bathed frequently, but they should be bathed every few months or when they get particularly dirty or smelly. Be sure to use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner for curly hair. Teeth brushing: All dogs are prone to dental issues if their teeth are not properly maintained. As a large dog, there is more room to work so they can tolerate a larger brush. Ear cleaning: Doberdoodles have floppy ears that can trap moisture and debris, leading to ear infections. Their ears should be cleaned regularly with a dog-specific ear cleaner and dried thoroughly after bathing or swimming. The best cleaner is from your veterinarian. However, if you need a quick or less expensive solution, we like this one. Hair trimming: Doberdoodles may need occasional hair trimming around their face, feet, and sanitary areas. You can either do this yourself with grooming scissors or take them to a professional groomer. Owning a Doberdoodle No one is certain if the original purpose of breeding the Doberman Pincher and Standard Poodle was to make a excellent family pets that has protective instincts or if it was done unintentionally. Owning a Doberdoodle can be an excellent choice for those seeking a loyal and affectionate companion with a unique look. However, it is essential to consider the all aspects of ownership before deciding to bring one home. The cost of purchasing a Doberdoodle can vary depending on the breeder and location. Generally, breeders who specialize in Doberdoodles tend to charge more than those who breed purebred Dobermans or Poodles. Maintenance costs for a Doberdoodle can also be high. Due to their unique coat, they require regular grooming to maintain its quality and prevent matting. Grooming costs can vary, depending on the type of groomer and the frequency of grooming. Additionally, Doberdoodles require regular exercise and proper nutrition, which can add to the cost of ownership. Special training for a Doberdoodle is necessary, as they are a cross between two highly intelligent breeds. Early socialization and training can help prevent behavior problems down the road. Medical costs for a Doberdoodle can also be high. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative care can help keep medical costs down. Finding a reputable Doberdoodle breeder can also be a challenge. It is essential to do thorough research and ask for recommendations from trusted sources. Owners should also be prepared to travel to find a breeder that meets their needs. Drawbacks of owning a Doberdoodle can include their personality traits, a high energy level, which can make them unsuitable for apartment living. They can also be prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior. Doberdoodles require an experienced owner who is willing to devote time and attention to their training and exercise needs. Additionally, they are intelligent and trainable using positive reinforcement, making them suitable for various tasks, such as therapy or service dogs. This is a tough question to answer. The short answer is no, because there is no dog that is completely allergen free. When people are allergic to dogs, it is mostly because of the dander, or otherwise known as shedded skin cells. Every dog, even those that are fur free, will shed skin cells. That said, there are some breeds that shed dander less than others and those are considered to be hypallergenic. Furthermore, the Doberman Pinscher is not considered to be hypoallergenic. Conversely, the Poodle IS considered to be hypoallergenic. Therefore, whether your dog is going to hypoallergenic depends on which parent breed has contributed the most DNA to your dog. If you are considering getting a Doberdoodle puppy, and there are people in your home with known allergies to dogs, you may consider a different breed. Also, before you get any dog, you may test to see if you or your family members are allergic to dogs. Rehoming a dog due to allergies is stressful to the dogs and also to the family members who may have fallen in love with the dog. How much does it cost to buy a Doberdoodle? The Bottom Line on the Doberdoodle All dogs have unique personalities. This mixed breed dog is loyal and most enjoy interacting with their family members. Early socialization is very important for this mixed breed; positively expose your dog to all kinds of people, moving objects, and sounds. People that live in a small space might reconsider owning a Doberdoodle. They are a large breed dog that needs a large space, adequate exercise and mental stimulation. The Doberman Pincher is a protective dog meaning it will guard its people and other animals living in it. Your Doberdoodle does have some protective traits and may respond to real and perceived threats, this includes people and animals outside the family. Dog owners of this hybrid breed like them for their protective nature, playfulness, intelligence, which make them great family pets. Doberdoodles are a good fit for people with active lifestyles, as these dogs like both mental and physical exercise. Both parent breeds have long life spans, living an average of between years. However, this mixed breed also has some disconcerting health issues such as susceptibility to bloat and Wobbler syndrome. The lesser desirable traits include over-protectiveness of its human family, health issues, and a high barking level. A Doberdoodle that gets regular exercise will be easier to train and adapt quicker in the home. Expert dog trainers recommend asking good questions from the Doberdoodle breeders before deciding on bringing this type of dog. Find out if they specifically breed doodles and how familiar are they with the parent breeds. Breeders that practice early neuro-stimulation would be beneficial for these hybrid puppies. Exposure to numerous sights and sounds during the first two months of their life will help them adjust to their new home. They will be less likely to be frightened of storms and sounds in the neighborhood. Owning a Doberdoodle can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with its challenges and costs. Doberdoodle dog owners often research the parent breeds and are prepared to invest in this active yet protective hybrid breed. Please read our Legal Disclaimer Share it:. Their muscular build will require larger than average amounts of protein, which is best acquired from lean meats. There is protein inside commercial kibble, but it is usually derived from vegetable sources and is thus somewhat inferior. This means you should aim to give your Doodleman the best possible quality dry kibble possible, ideally supplemented with canned food or meat. This will help provide your Doodleman with additional moisture, though as with any dog, constant access to fresh, clean water is essential. Dairy products, excessive grains, and fatty meats should also be strictly avoided, as these can swiftly lead to health issues. This exercise should be regular and consistent and combine high-intensity exercise, like running, walking, and cycling, with mentally stimulating games. Without this regular physical and mental stimulation, Doodlemans can become agitated, causing them to become destructive and even aggressive. The intelligence of Poodles combined with the protective nature of Doberman breeds means that they will notice changes to their routines and can become confused and distressed when this is not adhered to. These parent breeds have a long history of specific tasks, and they will thrive when given important and specific instructions. Early obedience training is essential for Doodlemans. These dogs are in-tune with human emotions and will pick up even the most subtle shifts in energy from their owners. This means you need to be confident and display leadership with these dogs so they are fully aware of whom is in charge. That said, they are also eager-to-please animals, and this will work hugely in your favor when training them. They will benefit from plenty of praise for good work, rewards, and exciting and high-energy tasks. Any form of harsh physical correction should be strictly avoided with these dogs. Not only does this break trust between you and your Doodleman, but it can also cause aggressive behavior and make training something dreaded as opposed to enjoyed. Basic command training can begin as early as 10 weeks with these intelligent dogs. Daily brushing is needed to prevent matting and skin issues. Bathing should be kept to a minimum, and we recommend bathing only when necessary to prevent dry skin. The ears of Doodlemans should be especially paid attention to. Due to the lack of airflow on the floppy ears of Doodlemans, there is a high risk of infection, earwax buildup, and mites. They should be checked regularly for any redness or discharge, as these are early signs of infection. If they are exercised regularly and have balanced diets, they will usually live a good life with few health issues. However, there are common problems that are reported among Dobermans and Poodles that may carry over into Doodlemans. Dobermans commonly suffer from dilated cardiomyopathy, which is a swelling of the heart. Von Willebrand disease is another common hereditary disease that may be passed on to your Doodleman. Cervical vertebral instability is a common neurological disorder caused by the compression of the spine in older Dobermans. Milder conditions include hypothyroidism and bloat. One of the most common problems that affect around half of Poodles worldwide is sebaceous adenitis, which is an inflammation of the sebaceous glands. This disorder can lead to skin disease and hair loss. Neutering males and spaying females have a host of health and behavioral benefits , including the prevention of some cancers. Minor Conditions. Should a Doberman Mix take after their Doberman Pinscher parent, they will be a large, powerful, and protective dog that is affectionate with their families. They may look imposing as they grow, but they are playful, energetic dogs that can make great family pets. Doberman Pinschers are quintessential protectors. As such, they require a lot of training and socialization to become a happy, well-balanced, and well-mannered dog. A properly socialized and trained Doberman is fiercely loyal to their families and is also a loving companion with a fun personality. As long as they are properly trained and socialized, they tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and even other pets. If a Doberman Mix takes after their Doberman Pinscher parent, then you can expect a similar temperament. However, the other parent breed will likely introduce some other potential traits and quirks, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. You can also meet the mother dog in-person to get an idea of her temperament and to see the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. The breeder should be starting socialization and training. Dobermans are moderately adaptable dogs. Because of their large size and high energy, they are better suited to homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living, but you will need to dedicate a lot of time every day to making sure they get the exercise and attention they need to be happy and healthy. Doberman Pinschers do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Because of their short coat, they may need to bundle up in some winter dog products to stay warm on walks during the winter. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar in terms of adaptability, then you can expect the same from a Doberman Mix. You still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed so you have a better idea of what mix of traits and quirks a Doberman Mix puppy could end up with. Mixed-breed dogs are sometimes healthier than purebred dogs. The other parent breed will have their own set of potential health concerns, so you want to ask the breeder about them. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to help avoid passing issues on to puppies. So, you should be planning to ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents anyway. You can also ask about any relevant health tests or clearances that have been done. Doberman Pinschers are also one of the dog breeds at a higher risk for developing bloat and a Doberman Mix will likely have the same risk. Bloat in dogs is a serious condition that can quickly become fatal if gastric torsion occurs. Although Dobermans are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please, they are also strong, powerful dogs with a strong will as well. If they are not socialized properly or well-trained, they can become unmanageable, destructive, and pushy. Because of this, a Doberman Pinscher is usually better suited to more experienced owners. Novice owners can do well with this breed, but obedience classes or enlisting the help of a professional trainer is highly recommended. The other parent breed could make a Doberman Mix easier or more difficult to train. Make sure you ask the breeder about them and then be prepared to enroll in training classes either way. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat similar to one of their parent breeds or a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should a Doberman Mix end up with a Doberman coat, it will be short and will shed a little year-round. A quick daily brushing and the occasional bath is enough to keep this coat healthy. Good dental care for dogs is often overlooked, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day helps prevent painful dental diseases later in life. A Doberman Pinscher is a high-energy dog breed that needs a lot of exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run or another activity are usually enough for this dog. But, they are happy to be active with you, so they will likely be up for activity if you are. These dogs are powerful, athletic, and versatile. So, once puppies finish growing , you can try a wide variety of activities with them. You can try hiking, swimming, running, playing frisbee, training for dog sports, and more. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you can expect your Doberman Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. Even if the other parent breed has a lower activity level, you will still need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog. A fully-grown Doberman Pinscher is usually inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed can affect this, so you want to ask the breeder about them and also pay attention to which breed is the mother. Although it is not a guarantee, you can also meet the mother dog in-person. This can give you some idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown Doberman Mix. A Doberman generally lives for years. The other parent breed may affect this slightly, but you can likely expect a similar life span in a Doberman Mix. Featured Doberman Mix Article. Their beauty, athleticism, smarts, attitude. To me it was the perfect package. So I went out looking for one. Of course, I made all the first time buyer mistakes as well. I knew nothing of reputable breeders, health testing, titles and temperment evaluations, and I bought my first female Lily out of the paper. She is not conformatally correct, but luckily she had a friendly, though shy temperament and beyond all luck, she lived until 3 months shy of 14 years old! Lily was your typical velcro dobe and was happiest when she was right next to me. In , When Lily was 5, I decided to add to my doberman family, and this time looked for a top notch breeder. Someone who was breeding for health and solid teperament, and was active in the dog world working and putting titles on their dogs. He sold me a male out of a great litter, and I named him Strider. Strider was everything you could ask for in a doberman. He was a great example of the breed both physically and mentally. He was beautiful and bomb proof and bold as brass. He was funny, full of himself, and beyond confident. Friendly with both humans and dogs, he became a certified therpay dog and went to hopspitals and old age homes regularly to visit people who wanted to spend time with a dog. I lost Strider just shy of his 7th birthday to complications of Lymphoma. He did six months of chemo and two half body radiations and was cancer free to the end. Many thanks to the team at the OVC in Guelph. He was such a good boy. After I lost Strider, I decided to persue a dream I had always had, but not been able to fulfill. To show my own doberman in the conformation ring and get a championship. With my work schedule for the past 20 years, that would have been impossible. Working on stage and only having Mondays off really does not leave you much opportunity to go to dog shows or competitions on the weekends! One of the trade offs for a life in the theatre!!! So in January , I blocked off time and bought myself a 'show dog'! I contacted Sandra Hunter of Bruda Dobermans in Chicago, and I was lucky enough to get one of the two show males she had held back. I named him Rudolph, as I got him just after Christmas, and as he is red and looks like a reindeer. Rudy was to be my first 'show' dog and boy did he teach me a thing or two about training a dog for the ring! Rudy finished his Canadian Championship owner handled in Novemeber of .Rudy is also involved in agility. The show bug caught, and I wanted a great quality bitch to show and to hopefully become my foundation bitch of my own breeding program in the future. As they say, the universe shows you the way and things happen for a reason. I was not really actively looking for said bitch, as Rudy was still young and I had things I wanted to do with him first but a casual email turned into one of the best things that could have happened! Their male special Gage, was a dog that not only was so impressive to look at but who reminded me a lot of Strider. Both American and Canadian Grand Champions and both exceptional representations of the breed. Quite the accomplishement as Gage is owner handled by Greg. So it came to be that I would get a show bitch from this fantastic breeding, and I named her Vega after the star! Vega, the brightest star in the constellation Lyra. Vega has been extensively studied by astronomers, leading it to be termed "arguably the next most important star in the sky after the Sun. Bold as brass. She is beautiful and bombproof. She's never spooked, she adjusts to new situations in seconds, and is happy and inquisitive all the time. A little Jumping bean! She was an easy dog to handle in the ring and I finished her Canadian Championship at 8 months, with a best puppy in group. She finished her American Championship with 4 Majors, 2 of which she won on the competitive Florida circuit. Fantastic support, mentorship and friendship. And that is what I intend to offer all of my own puppy buyers in the future. Support, mentorship and friendship. Please feel free to follow the NEWS section of this website to keep up to date on all of the goings on of Broadway Dobermans. What you get is an adorable puppy with wire to thick curly fur in a range of colours. The Doodleman or Doberman Poodle Mix are low-shedding mini-size guard dogs, making them one of the most popular poodle mix breeds in Australia. Let us study everything there is to know about this great hybrid dog! What is a Doodleman — Doberman Poodle Mix? They are also called Doodleman, Doberpoos, or Doberdoodles. To learn more about the Doodleman Pinscher, let us consider a few facts about the parent dog breeds. Dobermann Pinscher The Dobermann Pinscher breed is fairly new; it is not even years old and first originated in Germany. A tax collector named Herr Karl Louis Dobermann created the Dobermann Pinscher using several dog breeds, as he wanted a medium-sized guard dog that could keep his money safe! Dobermans are athletic intelligent dogs that are suited for a variety of jobs. Many Dobermans have even served in the military. Today, the breed is extensively used as a guard dog. Poodles became an official German breed in the s. They have ranked in the top ten highly desirable dog breeds in the world. Currently, they rank No. As popular as Poodles are as purebred dogs, they have also become immensely popular in the concept of designer dogs. Poodles are considered one of the best breeds to mix other dog breeds with. They have been chosen as Foundation Dogs for Doodle breeds for their intelligence, versatility, and hypoallergenic coats. They also have a longer lifespan compared to many other dog breeds. In the early s, the popularity of Doodle designer dogs skyrocketed. More and more potential dog parents wanted highly-trainable and intelligent dogs with low-shedding coats. This gave rise to mixed dog breeds like Labradoodles and Goldendoodles. One such Doodle cross is the Doodleman. It simply made sense for breeders to cross a large and loyal dog breed like the Doberman Pinscher with a smart and trainable dog breed like the Poodle. The Doodleman Pinscher is not recognised by any canine club in the world. However, some hybrid dog clubs are now emerging that are registering these hybrid dogs to keep a track of them. The Doodleman — Doberman Poodle Mix is a low-shedding and mini-size guard dog, making them a popular choice for families. We still cannot say for sure when the first Doodleman Pinscher came into this world. How Big Is a Doodleman Pinscher? Naturally, there is no standardisation in their height and weight. Your Doodleman puppy could weigh anywhere between lb. The same is the case with their coat colours. You could have a Doodleman in literally any colour you want. First-generation Doodleman dogs generally have one solid colouring and can have tan points phantom while others may have a mix of colours. The coat of your Doberdoodle will also depend on canine genetics. Some puppies might inherit a curly, water-tight coat of a Poodle while others could have the short coat of a Dobermann. Most Doodleman Pinschers are low-shedding. Most Doberman poodle mix puppies that are back-crossed to a Poodle will produce slightly more hypoallergenic and low-shedding offspring. This is due to the larger Poodle gene pool to choose from. As such, F1b Doodleman puppies Doodleman crossed with a Poodle that have a curly coat are more likely to be low-shedding like the Poodle. First-generation Doberdoodles tend to be low to medium shedding and have a wiry coat texture. Again, we have no set standards to compare and every Doodle is likely to have a unique disposition. In general, we can expect the same guardian dog tendencies that are seen in the Doberman Pinscher to appear in the Doberdoodle. These mixed dogs have inherently protective natures. They are courageous and bold. Doberman poodle mix puppies that are raised in loving, caring homes and are socialised or exposed to a variety of experiences tend to be bolder compared to puppies that are not. Well-bred Doodlemans have a stable temperament. Like their Poodle parent, they are likely to also be smart and easy to train. The Poodle genes also tone down some of the vicious aggression that Doberman Pinschers have a reputation for. Most Doodlemans could be aloof and wary of strangers. However, once they understand their owners are safe, they will warm up slightly. However, their protective nature will keep them guarded. This is the quality of a guardian dog breed. You just need to instruct your visitors to not display any intimidating body language toward your dog. This includes using their hands to pet your dog on its head or bending or lurching over it. New acquaintances need to allow your Doberdoodle to sniff them and not crowd their personal space in a threatening manner. Reputable Doberman poodle mix breeders produce puppies that are very protective of their families without showing unnecessary aggression. While this aspect of their personality has several benefits, it can sometimes become a liability. You cannot berate a dog who is performing its instinctive duty while it is growling menacingly at strangers who walk in unannounced. You cannot expect your Doodleman to know that your friends and relatives sometimes walk in without knocking! This is why your Doberdoodle will need positive training from puppyhood. Thankfully, most Doberdoodles learn quickly. Their smartness inherited from the Poodle breed is a major advantage. Doodlemans also have an independent streak. They have a mind of their own and like to use it. This is a valuable trait in police dogs and military dogs but in pets, it can be frustrating to owners. Formal life skills and obedience training is very important to curb this. Often, Doodlemans reserve this loyalty for one member of the family. That does not mean it neglects the other members — it just prefers to attach itself to the person who trains or feeds it. However, it will still make it its duty to watch over children. How Much Does a Doodleman Cost? In addition to the initial cost, you will also spend on feeding your Doodle a healthy diet, taking it to the vet for its vaccinations and routine exams, pet insurance, training, grooming etc. What to Feed a Doberman-Poodle Mix? You can also ask your breeder or vet for the right dog food recommendations. The food should contain meats as its first two ingredients. Many Doodleman owners feed a raw dog food diet to their poodle mixes. A healthy Doodleman — Doberman Poodle Mix will be a low-shedding and mini-size guard dog. Doberdoodles live on average for years and are generally healthy dogs. You can reduce the risk of these diseases in your Doodle by only buying it from a reputable breeder who conducts health screening tests on the parent dogs and only breeds the ones cleared of these genetic issues. The best poodle mix breeders use DNA testing to prevent health problems associated with breed-specific diseases and to ensure that their puppies are non-shedding and hypoallergenic. Doodleman — Doberman Poodle Mix puppies for sale and breeders The Doberdoodle is a rare designer dog breed in Australia and the Mini Doberman Poodle mix is even more so. Other popular Doberman crossbreeds include: Doberman cross labrador Doberman and goldendoodle mix Mini Doberman poodle mix Dobermann cross mini or toy poodle The Doberman poodle mix is particularly popular because of its loyal and protective temperament, low-shedding coat and slightly smaller size than a traditional Dobermann pinscher. Subscribe for poodle mix breed information, exclusive offers and access to our community of reputable breeders. Leave this field empty if you're human: Share this.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppy diet: newborn For a German Shepherd puppy to develop and grow properly, it is imperative that they first nurse on their mother's milk. The first milk they receive is a protein and antibody-rich type of milk known as colostrum. This gives the puppy's immune and central nervous systems a boost. They then progress on to regular breast milk. Puppies will nurse for at least 6 to 8 weeks, gradually being weaned on to solid food at about 4 weeks. If, for any reason, the puppy cannot suckle its mother, don't give them cow or goat milk. These milks are very poor quality in comparison to a puppy's mother's milk. If your German shepherd puppy has to be prematurely weaned, a veterinarian will be able to prescribe specific infant formula and establish the appropriate dosage for your puppy. For example, a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd should not be fed the same food. This is because hese breeds have different nutritional needs. Take a look here to find out more about the diet for a prematurely weaned puppy. German Shepherd puppy diet: 1 month old From 3 to 4 weeks old, when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd puppy, we should start by letting them taste new foods and flavors. At this stage, the German Shepherd puppy's diet plan requires them to eat a special wet food for puppies. At around 6 to 8 weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy should be given a little dry dog food with water, or unseasoned chicken stock between nursing sessions. From their eighth week onward, a German Shepherd should be weaned and start feeding on solid food with a special puppy feed. The best dog food for a German Shepherd puppy is breed specific, but this may not be available everywhere. In these cases, your veterinarian can create a proper food plan for your German Shepherd puppy. At this stage, milk must be removed from the puppy's diet as it could cause diarrhea. If by any chance your dog or puppy is suffering from a bad stomach, we recommend taking a look at our article on what to do if yourt dog has diarrhea. In addition, it is vital that puppies have constant access to clean fresh water. German Shepherd puppy diet: 2 months old At two months of age, you can start to slowly decrease the moistening of your German Shepherd's dry food. Eventually, the puppy will be used to eating the food completely dry. Following the German Shepherd puppy food chart, from 2 until 4 months old, a puppy will eat 4 or 5 times a day. This has to be carried out with one very important addition: discipline. A puppy needs to learn that it will not be fed constantly throughout the day, but at specific times. We start of by placing a bowl of food down for 10 minutes, this should give the puppy enough time to finish its meal. After 10 minutes, we suggest taking the bowl of food away, even if your puppy hasn't finished eating. A puppy's food bowl must only be available to the dog for 10 minutes. This 10 minutes should be enough time for the puppy to eat all of its provided food. As already mentioned, after 10 minutes, you should take the food bowl away, even if the puppy hasn't finished eating. This pattern will introduce the puppy's food schedule and allow it an opportunity to become accustomed to particular feeding times. Accepting and adapting to a diet plan is very important for a puppy's intellectual development. It also facilitates more complex and demanding training sessions. Food for German shepherd puppies should be higher in calories, fats, proteins and calcium than adult German Shepherd dog food. This is because puppies are still growing and developing and therefore need better nutrition. German Shepherd puppy diet: food plan after 4 months Between 4 and 6 months of age, the number of meals which we have detailed in our German Shepherd puppy food chart should be reduced to 3 a day. The food quantity should be increased and an extra margin of 2 minutes to eat should be provided. The packaging of quality commercial dog food will detail the appropriate suggested amount of food for the puppy, depending on its age and weight. If you have any doubts, consult your veterinarian. You should eventually start mixing fresh food, such as meat, fish or vegetables, with the commercial dry feed. Beware of forbidden foods for dogs. Some people ask about a raw diet for a German shepherd puppy, but we recommend these such foods should always be cooked and never given to a dog raw. Meanwhile, treats for dogs should only be used as positive reinforcement during their training and learning period, never as a food supplement. Under no circumstances should you give your German Shepherd, or any dog, human food leftovers. Human food contains salt, sugar and seasoning contents which are very harmful to a dog's health. In addition, if you do offer your dog your food, it will pester you during meals [1]. For more, take a look at some of the harmful effects of treating a dog like a human. German Shepherd puppy diet: after 6 months When your German Shepherd puppy reaches 6 months of age, its daily food intake should be reduced to twice a day. When we do this we can increase the food portions and eating time accordingly. Our German Shepherd diet chart below should be taken into account depending on the age, lifestyle and size of your German Shepherd puppy. After 6 months, you should give your German Shepherd puppy shatterproof bones, such as beef, to gnaw on. For more, take a look here for more about; Bones For Puppies. German shepherd puppy: Dog food and water bowl hygiene Your puppy's food and drink containers should always be clean. Hygiene is very important in order to prevent the appearance of insects. If you notice that your puppy has not eaten for three consecutive meals, consult your veterinarian immediately. This lack of appetite in a puppy could be caused by bowel obstruction and stomach pain; due to the ingestion of toxic food etc. Don't forget that puppies are very sensitive and fragile and if you ignoring any symptoms of disease, it can result in severe issues or even puppy fatality. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppies should be socialized and trained to live with you from day one. These dogs are incredibly capable and have the ability, if trained properly, to learn tricks and perform activities [2]. In addition to the diet of a German Shepherd, don't forget the importance of preventative medicines, following the appropriate vaccination schedules and general German Shepherd dog care. For more information about your German shepherd, take a look at.Since puppies have a lot of growing to do, they require plenty of calories. You can reduce the amount of food per pound of body weight until they reach standard adult measurements. The specific amount of food to feed a German Shepherd can vary because different dogs are sized differently and have various needs and levels of athleticism. To learn more about specific foods and ingredients, check out this article on the best diet for German Shepherds. Three to four meals of puppy food a day is ideal for a month-old German Shepherd, as the food will be easily digestible and keep the energy high throughout the day. Feeding a puppy 1—2 large meals might make them feel sick, or they may be unable to finish it all at once. When it comes to how much food to give a 1—4 month-old German Shepherd, the recommended amount is approximately one cup g or a little more, depending on activity levels per meal. Be sure to spread meals evenly throughout the day, and avoid feeding your puppy before bedtime. The West Greenwich Animal Hospital recommends not feeding a dog three hours before bedtime because they may need to go out for a toilet break at night. Since their stomachs and bodies are getting bigger, they can generally handle fewer large meals than more small ones. So, you can reduce the number of puppy food meals to 2 or 3. Since the number of meals is reduced, increase the amount of food per serving to approximately 1. The meals should be spread evenly throughout the day to ensure your German Shepherd has consistent energy levels. My German Shepherd Willow at 4 months old 10 to 12 Months At 10—12 months, a German Shepherd begins to mature as its body continues growing. Split approximately 4—5 cups —1, g of food between two meals. However, this is just a recommendation — as mentioned previously, your dog may require more or less than this depending on their activity levels. Keeping the amount of food at cups , g per day may be sufficient, or it may be best to start feeding your dog more or less than this. For example, many active or working German Shepherds may benefit from 6 cups 1. Again, the specific amount is circumstantial. However, some dog owners make the switch earlier. Honestly, this is the issue with every new pet parent. Below is a German Shepherd feeding chart to help you learn more about giving your pooch the right amount of food at the right time. Remember, the below are simply recommendations, so specific amounts can vary by dog and activity level. Age Amount of food per day Amount of servings per day months 3—4 cups — g spread across multiple servings 3—4 3—4. Always check the packaging of the food you buy for a more detailed analysis. There are endless dog food options, so making the right choice can be challenging and stressful. The main protein source is chicken, and it promotes immune system health and digestive performance. Suitable for puppies up to 15 months, this dog food is the perfect solution for young German Shepherds with lots of growing to do! One of the main benefits of this food is that it comes in different sizes, including a pound 6. This dog food contains all the nutrients a German Shepherd puppy needs to grow and thrive. Blue Buffalo dog food has real chicken, fruits, and vegetables, so your pooch will surely enjoy the delicious taste! It comes in two flavors — a chicken meal with oats and a lamb meal with brown rice. Either contains enough high-quality protein to ensure your pup can grow as healthily as possible. Medium-sized dog breeds can continue eating puppy food until 18 months. Like with puppy food, there are many adult German Shepherd dog food options, so choosing the right one can be challenging. Check out some of my below recommendations to make your search a little easier. Best Breed Dr. Best Breed Dog Food aids digestion as it contains a blend of soluble and insoluble fiber. According to a study, musculoskeletal disorders and the inability to stand are the two most common causes of death in German Shepherds. Since puppies need specific nutrients to grow, their food differs greatly from adult dog food. Puppies especially need protein because it aids with the growth and development of cells. Without adequate protein in the diet , puppies are more susceptible to serious health issues, including: Weight and muscle loss General weakness Chest and abdomen issues German Shepherds can continue eating puppy food for the first year of life and beyond. Usually, 16—18 months is a good time for a dog to start eating adult food. The most important thing to remember is that adult food is never the right choice for a German Shepherd puppy that still has much growing to do. However, there are many other factors to consider when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd, like their general weight and activity levels. Weight and Size The weight of your German Shepherd will determine how much to feed it. The general rule of thumb is that the heavier your dog is, the more food it needs to stay fueled. The average adult German Shepherd is around .Pay attention to the general height and size of your German Shepherd to determine exactly how much food to feed them. For example, an underweight German Shepherd will need extra food to get back to a healthy weight, whereas an overweight one will need less food. As you can imagine, a highly energetic dog will need more food than a German Shepherd that lies around all day. If your German Shepherd is still relatively young, i. Health Health issues can affect the way a dog eats. For example, a dog with stomach issues might avoid food altogether. Other health conditions that affect how much a dog can eat include: Pancreatitis Infections Cancer Consider whether your dog is experiencing health issues when feeding them. For instance, if your dog is shedding too much, you need to change a diet that minimizes shedding. Age The age of a German Shepherd helps determine how much food should be eaten and how often. For example as mentioned earlier , younger dogs must eat smaller meals spread evenly throughout the day, while older dogs can have 2 larger meals. A vet can weigh your German Shepherd, ask questions, and listen to the heartbeat to determine a healthy diet plan. As Willow is now a senior dog, I like to take her for vet checkups every 6 months. In many cases, giving puppies homemade food over long periods can cause health issues down the line. A study by the National Library of Medicine concluded that a homemade diet given by the owner caused a puppy to experience various health issues, including vitamin D deficiency and NSH nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism. You can give a small treat here and there, but human food should never make up the entire diet of a puppy. Below are some tasty examples! Eggs Not only are eggs beneficial for humans, but they can also be good for dogs if given in moderation. German Shepherds puppies and adults will receive plenty of nutrients from eggs, including protein and fats. The best and easiest way to give a German Shepherd an egg is to hard boil it. Avoid feeding a German Shepherd or any dog fried eggs too often due to the excessive oil. Hard-boiled eggs are usually the easiest for dogs to eat, but you can also try poached or scrambled eggs. Examples of dog-friendly fruits include: Bananas. And large dogs need to have many care factors taken care of to thrive. So, the first step is preparing for a home suitable for a German Shepherd puppy that will one day become a big dog. First, make sure you have enough space for them to run and play. If you have a small yard, consider getting a dog run or fence to give them extra room as well as space for you to do important obedience training exercises. And finally, be sure to stock up on puppy food, treats, toys , and other essentials. Separation Anxiety It is common for month-old German Shepherd puppies to develop separation anxiety when they are first separated from their parents and litter mates. It is because they have not yet learned how to cope with being away from their pack, especially in the first few weeks. Separation anxiety can manifest in several ways, including howling, barking , chewing, and pacing. If your German Shepherd shows separation anxiety, seek professional help from a vet or an animal behaviorist. With time, patience, and guidance, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to cope with being away from other dogs and, little by little, start getting used to you and your family. First, it is crucial to understand that basic training for your German Shepherd to potty is a process and will take time, patience, and consistency. No magic solution will instantly train your month-old German Shepherd puppy to use the bathroom outside. Instead, it requires positive reinforcement, consistent follow-through, and a lot of patience. It means taking your puppy out to relieve themselves regularly throughout the day. Your one-month-old German Shepherd puppy should have a potty training schedule first thing in the morning, after every meal, after naps and playtime, and before bedtime. If you stick to this schedule, you will succeed. German Shepherd puppies generally have to relieve themselves every two to three hours, so be sure to set a timer or alarm to remind yourself to take them out. Introducing a Puppy Crate Choose a designated potty area, a. You can find puppy crates for your German Shepherd puppy at most pet stores or online retailers. Start by taking them to the designated area on a leash and letting them explore. Give it a treat if it shows interest in the space. Try again later if the puppy shows no interest or seems scared of the room. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get started: Use a leash: When taking your German Shepherd out to relieve themselves, use a leash to keep them focused and prevent them from running off and exploring. Fixed routine: Try to take your German Shepherd to his designated potty area at the same time each day. It will help him develop a regular bathroom schedule. Give them time: When you get to the designated potty area, give your German Shepherd puppy plenty of time to relieve themselves. Reward good behavior: When your German Shepherd uses the bathroom in their designated potty area, praise them and give them a tasty treat. It will reinforce correct behavior and help your German Shepherd puppy learn that going potty outside is good. It will only scare your German Shepherd puppy and could cause it to hold urine or feces in, leading to health problems. German Shepherd puppies that are weaning for a few weeks to 12 years require four meals daily. After 12 weeks, you can switch to 3 meals per day. Your German Shepherd should maintain a diet of cups of puppy food per day, depending on their activity level. The German Shepherd breed is also prone to joint problems, so ensure they get the proper nutrients for healthy joints and bones. A quality dog food for your German Shepherd will have the right balance of calcium, phosphorus, and other nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin. The most common health issues seen in the German Shepherd dog breed are the following. These conditions are caused by a hip or elbow joint malformation, leading to pain, lameness, and eventually arthritis. German Shepherds with these conditions will require lifelong pain medication and surgery management. Bloating Bloating is another common health problem seen in German Shepherds. This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and then twists on itself, cutting off the blood supply. Some of the most common signs of bloating include restlessness, pacing, drooling, and abdominal pain. Contact your vet immediately if you think your German Shepherd is bloated. Hemophilia Hemophilia is a blood clotting disorder that can affect German Shepherds. This condition can lead to excessive bleeding, even from minor injuries. German Shepherds with hemophilia will require lifelong management with medication and close monitoring by a vet. The best way to prevent health problems in your German Shepherd breed is to get them from reputable breeders who do health testing on their dogs. Be sure to ask about the health history of the parents, grandparents, and brothers or sisters. Having your German Shepherd examined by a vet within the first few days of bringing them home is also essential. It will allow you to catch any health problems early and get treatment immediately. Degenerative Disc Disease Degenerative disc disease is a condition that can occur in German Shepherds. This condition is caused by the deterioration of the discs in the spine. It can lead to pain and paralysis. German Shepherds with this condition will require lifelong management with pain medication and surgery. Allergies German Shepherds are also susceptible to allergies , which can be caused by anything from food to environmental allergens. The most common signs of an allergic reaction include itching, redness, and hair loss. If you think your German Shepherd has allergies, it is vital to speak to your vet so they can recommend the best course of treatment. While there is no guarantee that your German Shepherd will never experience any health problems, working with a reputable breeder and taking good care of your German Shepherd will help to minimize the risk. It is essential for their growth. German Shepherd puppies usually wake up several times during the night for a potty break or a quick snack. Over time, your German Shepherd will learn to sleep through the night as they grow and mature. In the meantime, enjoy those cute German Shepherd puppy naps. Also read:. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.

One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for North Carolina Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in North Carolina? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in North Carolina? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Raleigh Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Raleigh? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Raleigh? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved.

Marie has over 10 years of pet grooming experience specializing in dogs and cats. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 10, times. Poodle hair is curly and thick, meaning it takes a bit of upkeep to keep it in perfect condition. Dogs with thick, curly hair need a lot of brushing, and the right tools and tips can make this process a lot easier. Steps 1 Set your dog on a table or elevated surface. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Grab your dog and place them on a table or a couch so you can reach them easier. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Advertisement 2 Spray a conditioner over their entire coat. Before you start brushing, grab a spray conditioner made specifically for dogs and spray it all over your pup. If your dog has sensitive skin or allergies, talk to your vet before using a conditioner spray. Advertisement 4 Hold the hair up with one hand as you brush. You can start brushing your dog anywhere: the head, back, or legs is usually a good place to start. Hold your brush in one hand and gently press their fur up with the other, creating a line in the fur. Use the brush in small strokes to brush downward, making sure to brush through all layers of the fur and not just the topcoat. Gently run it through the section you just brushed. If the fur is fully brushed out, your comb will slide through no problem. However, if your comb gets caught on a knot or tangle, go back in with your pin brush to gently loosen the knot. If it gets caught on a knot, you could hurt your dog by pulling too hard. Advertisement 6 Check for mats in the ears, armpits, and toes. There are a few spots on your dog that are more prone to matting, and may need extra attention. Go to source If your poodle wears clothing or a harness a lot, check carefully for mats in the spots that the material touches their fur. The constant friction can create a lot of matting. As you work your way around your dog, brush them carefully when you get to these sensitive areas. If your dog jerks back or snaps at you, give them a break from brushing for a couple of minutes. Go to source To work systematically, try starting from the back of your dog their tail or hind legs and working your way forward across their body, front legs, and head. Go to source If you come across any mats while bristle brushing, go back in with your pin brush to work them out slowly. Advertisement 10 Visit a groomer for extremely matted fur. Trying to tackle tough mats yourself can be difficult, and you may even accidentally hurt your dog in the process. Advertisement 12 Brush your poodle every day. Try to brush your poodle every day to reduce matting and keep them looking great. While you should brush your poodle every day, you can save bathing them for about once a month. Bathing your dog too often strips their fur of natural oils, which can lead to dry skin and other issues. You may need to use different kinds of brushes to maintain the looks of your dog. This is because poodles can have different types of coats and each one of them has its own requirements. Some of the dog brushes that are usually used on a poodle are discussed below. Slicker Brush A slicker brush is the most common brush that is recommended for grooming a poodle. Therefore, a lot of people regard it as the best dog brush for grooming. Pin Brush A pin brush is similar to a typical human brush. It is also used in the same way as a slicker brush. However, if you want to minimize the shedding even more , shedding brushes can be helpful. They are designed with metal teeth to collect the hair that your dog may shed. The following steps can help you to brush your poodle at home. It re-hydrates the hair and makes the brush a lot more easy and comfortable. Likewise, it can also detangle and restore sheen to the hair. First, you have to examine the legs and hindquarters of your poodle. Use the pin brush to brush the legs. This will loosen dirt and help in discovering any tangles. While brushing, stroke the brush from close to the skin towards the tip of the hair. After brushing the legs, brush the tail, upper body, and ears in the same way. Command your poodle to lie down for brushing these parts. Removal of Tangles and Mats Once you have completed the initial brushing, you are all set to find the mats. Divide the coat of each part head, face, ears, legs, and body of your poodle into small sections. This will make it easier to locate a tangled area. When you find such an area, spray some conditioner on the tangle and use your fingers to untie any loose hair. Then, use a shedding brush to pick the tangles with its end teeth. You can also use a metal comb that has metal teeth. Start from the fringes of the tangle and work towards the center of the matted fur. Lift the teeth of the comb in and out of the hair without pulling. After that, use a slicker brush for brushing large tangles at each section of every body part. Use the brush in different directions to loosen the mats. Once it is done, pick up the tangles with the metal comb. Lastly, brush the whole coat with the metal comb and loosen any tiny knots which were missed. This brush will also facilitate in removing dust and debris. You can also spread the natural oils throughout the coat by using this brush. Otherwise, brushing two to three times per week is enough for a poodle. This will keep the mats and tangles to a minimum. Regular brushing also stimulates circulations and helps to distribute the natural skin oil. This is quite beneficial to keep the skin healthy. Frequent brushing will also maintain the beautiful looks of your poodle. This is because wet hair can make mats worse and then it is very difficult to remove them. Brushing a dry coat will also help the hair to become softer and fluffier. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Unfortunately, all this does is frizz it up and make it more likely to get snarled. Brushing through fuzzy, ratty fur is like walking backward everywhere you go. Plain water is better than nothing, but if you have some dog conditioner, a capful of that mixed in will help a lot. Dogs have unique needs for their skin and different oils. Our products can strip their skin and hair of what it needs and cause drying , itching, and even worse, matting. Gently work the damp hair with a slicker brush from the tips inward until the brush slides through easily. Poodle Bathing and Brushing Are Poodles hyper? They sure love to run and exercise! This rubbing can be as disastrous as trying to brush through dry Poodle curls. Go with gravity by starting at the top of the head and working your way down to the feet. If you and your Poodle are comfortable with a blow dryer, you can use this option, too. Following those steps will ensure soft, combed fur instead of a dry, frizzy, and tangled mess. If you wash, dry, or brush your Poodle wrong, your dog will probably let you know. If not, they might be less enthusiastic about the next bath and brush out instead. Using the right tools will help, like soft towels and the right brush. Brush a Small Section at a Time Start at the top of the head with a quality slicker brush. Work on a small patch of fur at a time. Instead, hold the tuft of hair in one hand, tighter near the roots to keep from hurting the dog, and pull the brush through the tips of the hair first. As it goes smoothly through that hair, brush further back until eventually, you can brush through the entire length of hair. Starting at the tips is much less painful when you hit a snag. This technique lets you work through the tangles a small amount at a time. For tough knots, spray a mix of water and conditioner directly on them and carefully work through them. This can lead to problem behavior like excessive barking. The most difficult thing to learn about how to brush a Poodle is being patient. Then take a small patch of hair directly next to it and start working on that. If you do, try to dry your dog more carefully next time. Spray with the finishing spray and brush as you go early in the process before the hair is dry. If you find some, brush those out. Then carefully brush the ears from the bottom up. Finish with the comb. Move on to the tail, from the tip inward, and the legs from the feet up. Part the hair as you go to ensure you only get a small amount of fur at a time. Finish with a comb, and pat yourself on the back. If you find hard-to-remove mats, a de-shedding tool or de-matting tool can help. Use it gently until it breaks down the mats and removes them. The tools are designed not to cut skin, but they can scrape and irritate if you use too much pressure. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. If it is not done correctly, the hairs can break, frizz or curl up in a matted mess. Whether you have a pet Poodle or a show Poodle, it is vital that proper brushing and drying be done after a bath. The process differs depending on whether your dog is a pet or in show.So let's take a look at some of the most important things to know! After giving your Poodle a bath, the brushing and drying process will be combined. One cannot happen without the other. If you allow the Poodle's hair to dry naturally it will over curl, can become frizzy and most likely will quickly become a big, matted mess. Alternatively, if you brush a dry coat, you can destroy the Poodle's hair, as it will create terrible split ends and cause quite a bit of damage. If you need to brush your dog between baths, always be sure to first spritz the coat with a trigger spray. This should be a mixture of water and canine conditioner. Now, let's look at some of the most important things to remember when you want to properly dry your Poodle also known as fluff drying Towels You will want to dry the coat with a towel regardless of whether or not you use a blow dryer. The type of towel that you use to dry your Poodle will have an affect on both how well moisture is absorbed and whether or not there will be any contract friction that could be detrimental to the hairs. While most towels are made of cotton, it is the density of that fabric that will categorize one to be of higher quality than another. This is known as GSM grams per square meter , which gives the fabric of the towel its weight. The higher that number, the better the towel for after-bath needs. With that as your drying method, you will want to dab and blot the coat. Rubbing must be avoided. Any time you rub a Poodle dry after a bath, this can cause breakage or tangling even if you do have a quality towel. Since water drips downward, you will want to start at the head, go over the neck and back and then work your way down each leg. And do not forget about the tail. .Using a Hair Dryer If you have a pet Poodle in a puppy clip or other 'easy care' coat trim, you do not necessarily need to use a blow dryer; though in most cases it will be best. It does have its pros and its cons. The pros of using a blow dryer on a Poodle include: Speeding up the drying process That faster time drying time will help leave-in products stay on the coat as opposed to possibly rubbing off It allows you to lift and ventilate the hair to make it look proper A high velocity dryer will help make the Poodle's coat smoother particularly if a quality leave-in product is used If allowed to air dry, the coat can be curly, kinky and difficult to scissor The cons of this would include: Possible heat damage if held too close or if the wrong appliance non-ionic dryer is used While it will dry the coat faster, this is an extra grooming task that some owners feel that they do not have time for; though again if the right appliance is used it only adds an extra 5 to 15 minutes depending on the size of the Poodle. When all is said and done, the coat will have a better appearance if this used after giving baths. When this is done correctly, by brushing in small sections as you dry, this is called "fluff grooming" in professional canine grooming salons. Speed is a crucial element to proper drying. Spritz sections of the coat with a quality finishing spray as you go along and use a quality slicker brush. This will offer the hair strands protection and will help make the coat fluffy and soft. Ionic dryers are the best choice for this grooming tool ; these emit negative ion charges which break up the water molecules which in turn allows the coat to dry much faster. You'll find that ones made for us humans actually work much better than those branded as 'pet' dryers. You may also like: Poodles and Ingrown Hairs - What happens when a hair often due to being curly grows inward, into the skin. How to prevent this and treatment for it. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. For some, you might have to worry about the dirt he or she rolls around in. For others, the length of the coat may necessitate frequent trims. For poodles, the number one challenge is mats and tangles in his or her curly fur. Poodles shed, but their naturally curly fur traps shed hairs in place, so they're as close to hypoallergenic as it's possible for a dog to be. Unfortunately, their coat is very high-maintenance, which means they're less than ideal for anyone who doesn't have the time to dedicate to grooming. It's about more than the haircut, though. Poodles need continual trimming and grooming to stay healthy. If left ungroomed, their fur can trap dirt and grime close to your fur baby's skin, resulting in a skin infection that requires a vet trip and some medication to clear up. Applying powder dry shampoo in-between baths can help reduce the risk of skin infections in fogs with curly and or long hair. Our Momma Knows Best organic dry dog shampoo has been naturally formulated to maintain a healthy natural oil balance while keeping yeast, bacteria and pesky bugs away, and of course maintain your pup smelling fresh longer. Dry dog shampoos are in high use and demand today. As with everything you apply on or feed your dog, make sure to educate yourself about these products before use on your pup. I wrote an extensive blog post about the safety and use of dry dog shampoo. You can also check out the read more section at the bottom for more fur and skin care tips. It's a much better idea to stay on top of the grooming, don't you think? Groom Often Some people describe poodles as "high maintenance" based on how often they need their fur brushed. General recommendations are to have your pup groomed professionally about once a month every three to six weeks , depending on his or her personal needs. That's just for trims and deep grooming though. Not all poodles will require the same brushing frequency. Depending on the length of the coat, your poodle will need daily, near-daily or weekly brushing to keep his or her curls free of mats and tangles and to strip out shed hair that has remained caught in the coat. For example, long poodle coats will require daily brushing. Medium length poodle coats will do fine with times per week. And, short poodle coats can be brushed once a week. The exception to this is if you prefer to keep your poodle "shaved. A "shaved" trim is a short coat. Actually, shaved poodles are rare and are typically only seen when the poor pup has such heavily matted fur that there's no salvaging it. Pick a Clip Different kinds of haircuts, or "clips," for your poodle necessitate different levels of grooming. You can pick a style and keep up with it, or you can try out different styles every few months and see which ones your fur baby likes the most. Clip styles include: The puppy clip. This style is usually limited to younger dogs and trims fur around the face, feet, and tail quite close to keep from irritating your youngster. The lamb clip. This is a style that makes your fur baby resemble a lamb by clipping his or her coat short across the entire body. It's simple, easy to maintain, and makes your canine companion look like he or she is wearing a wool coat. Show clips. There are several kinds of styles mostly seen in show poodles , like the Continental clip or the Saddle clip. They tend to be more high-maintenance but very striking. These are just a few of the style options you can try out with your fur baby. What matters is finding one you can keep up with that looks good and that your pup enjoys. Use the Right Tools Do you want to maintain your poodle's coat at home, or do you want to take him or her to the groomer on a regular basis? The choice helps determine which tools you need to keep on hand. If you want to keep your poodle's hair trimmed at home, with less frequent visits to the groomer, you'll want to make sure you pick up scissors, clippers, and the right kind of dog-safe shampoo and conditioner to keep their coat and skin healthy. If you're only looking to do some maintenance at home, you'll want two kinds of dog brushes. The first brush is called a pin brush. Pin brushes have widely-spaced, usually metal pins, with safely rounded ends. These help slide through your poodle's coat, working out tangles and mats that form throughout the day as your fur baby frolics through life. The important part of a pin brush is making sure it has a cushion and that the pins aren't sharp as in the so-called slicker brushes. Poorly-made pin brushes, or simply used incorrectlycan irritate the skin and cause "undercoat burn," similar to how you might get a rug burn if you rub a stiff, abrasive fabric against your skin. In other words, a pin brush is stiff enough to work mats out of your fur baby's fur while being gentle enough to avoid hurting his or her skin beneath. The other brush you want to grab is a bristle brush. These brushes have denser, more closely-packed sets of bristles. They are more flexible than metal pins and softer. They don't work out mats, but they help to align curls and straighten hair. Usually, a bristle brush is ideal for short-coat dogs and dogs with straight coats, but they work wonderfully on poodles as well, especially when they're trimmed. The important quality to look for in a bristle brush is natural bristles. The EarthCare Deshedder brush is equipped with natural boar bristles, for example. I personally do not recommend synthetic bristles. While their cost may be tempting, they can cause static electricity to build up, which can be unpleasant and tangle hair further. The bristle brush is used to straighten fur, remove shed hairs, and gently exfoliate the skin beneath to prevent dandruff and skin issues. It also helps smooth out natural skin and hair oils and sebum, spreading it evenly across your fur baby's coat. That way, your pup will be shiny and lustrous, the envy of the neighborhood. There are other kinds of brushes and combs, but they're often either too harsh for your poodle's sensitive skin or are doing the same thing as one of the two brushes above. Rake brushes are stiff and harsh. They can be fine to work out mats if you're very careful, but it's usually safer to go with a pin brush instead. Slicker brushes are essentially the same as bristle brushes with one main difference: this are better left for professional groomers. Metal combs can help you find mats, but you should always use a brush to work the mat out as combs tend to further tighten any knots. Except for metal combs that can be safely used by almost any pet parent, we highly recommend non-grooming professionals avoid using rakes or slicker brushes as they may injure your dog. You may find that some manufacturers label their slicker brushes as "soft slicker brushes". Well, the truth is, there is no such a thingwhen it comes to brushing your pup's delicate skin with any wire-type of brush. Don't take our word, the ultimate test is to use them on your head first. Have you ever tried brushing your hair with a slicker brush? We know what you are thinking. If you haven't, we recommend you try it on your hair first. After that we promise you'll never try it on your fur baby. These tools simply take skill. Always get the right tool for the job. Your fur baby will thank you! Understand Your Fur Baby Some poodles love being groomed, while others have had bad experiences in the past and don't like it at all. Still, more are averse to certain kinds of brushes, the noise clippers make, or the feeling of fur being trimmed. It's important to how your fur baby responds to different grooming techniques. Different signs of stress in a poodle include: Excess drooling, frequent yawning, whining, barking, or a wrinkled muzzle can all be signs of mild stress. Rigid posture, barking, shaking, trembling, struggling, snapping, submissive behaviors, urination, and vomiting can all be signs of high stress. For poodles who don't like being groomed, you'll want to take special steps to make the process easier. Stick with the softer brushes , just in case he or she has sensitive skin, and the brush irritates it. Stay gentle and communicate with your fur baby. Your pup will understand you, at the very least, your tone of voice, and something as simple as talking to your pup will keep him or her calmer while being groomed. Try out a distraction or a reward. Some dogs respond well to simple positive reinforcement or even to basic distractions. You can read more about this in our guide to trimming nails. We all want what's best for our furry children, so you need to find the right balance between grooming for their health and keeping them calm and happy. Keep an Eye on the Skin Poodles usually have very sensitive skin. This is also why you need to keep on top of brushing their coat, because mats can trap dirt against the skin and result in an infection. Infections are irritating and painful and will require treatment at the vet. Obviously, you want to avoid putting your fur baby through this, and you don't want to go through it either! Keep an eye out for places where your fur baby is itching, look for redness or welts, and other signs of skin infections. If you notice that your furry friend has signs of a skin infection, you'll want to take them to your vet for a look. Skin infections can be irritating at best and dangerous at worst, so it's always better to get them treated ASAP. Develop a Grooming System Patterns are an important part of dog training. You don't want grooming to be an ad hoc affair because then your fur baby will never know what to expect, and that can cause him or her anxiety and stress. So, set up a grooming pattern and stick with it. Start with a conditioner. There are many conditioners on the market that you can simply spray across your fur baby's coat. The conditioner helps to hydrate the coat, makes it easier to remove mats and tangles, and reduces static generated by brushing. Look for a conditioner that doesn't have a strong scent, as poodles are often averse to strong-smelling fur treatments. Next, lightly brush your fur baby's coat with a pin brush equipped with rounded pins. We cannot emphasize this point enough. This will find and start to work out any mats and tangles that have accumulated since the last time you brushed. Don't brush too deep or press too hard since that can irritate your fur baby's skin. Just lightly brush his or her coat, allowing the conditioner to work through the fur, working out the mats you find. Make sure to brush with the right technique! Watch the video below from professional groomer Terri below. Terri shows a good technique you can use with your fur baby. Keep in mind that Terri, who is a professional, is using a slicker brush in this video. We highly recommend pet parents to stay away from using slicker brushes on their dogs. Our EarthCare pin brush is equipped with rounded pins that eliminate the risk of causing lacerations on you pup's skin. Additionally, our EarthCare Dematter has been engineered in Germany with Pneumatic Cushioning Technology for the ultimate gentle brushing experience. The use of slicker brushes should be left for professional groomers who have the skill required to not harm a dog. As stated above, before you use a slicker brush on your dog, we recommend you try it on your head first. We promise you will never try it on your dog after that. How to Brush a Curly Coated Dog Once you've gone over your fuzzy friend's coat with the pin brush, it's time to use a finishing brush. The boar bristle brush we've linked above is generally the best option for most canine companions. This helps smooth out his or her coat, finish working in the conditioner, and remove any lingering shed hairs, all without irritating the skin. Grooming doesn't have to be a stressful time, and the reward makes it all worthwhile. Do this every day, every other day, or every few days, depending on how much you have your fur baby's coat groomed and trimmed. If his or her hairstyle is thinner and shorter, you don't have to brush him or her as thoroughly or as often. If you've left the coat longer and thicker, you'll need to brush more often. There are plenty of dog hair detangling products online. One huge problem with most if not all commercially available conditioners is that they are loaded with parabens and other synthetic and toxic ingredients. From mild allergies to cancer. Unless you can find a truly organic dog detangling solution, we advise that you make your own. And when we say organic, we mean a USDA certified organic solution. Beware of self-proclaimed "organic" product status. Just like with any dog products today, the market is flooded with all sorts unscrupulous sellers. From the traditional Chinese product that clearly states "made in China", to the sneaky "made in the USA dog product" but actually made in China product, or made with ingredients from China products. The common denominator is many will claim a self-proclaimed organic products status. A self-proclaimed organic product status is nothing more than labeling a product as organic without having an authoritative third party endorsement. This is a common and dangerous marketing tactic. Self-proclaimed organic dog products are oftentimes more dangerous than similar products that do not use misleading marketing tactics. What is a Natural Detangler for Dogs? Saturate tough areas. Make sure to keep shaking the spray bottle throughout the session to make sure the ingredients remain mixed. Try to work through any matts with your fingers first. Then use a gentle detangling brush followed by a natural bristles brush. Spot treat unresolved tangles and work them with your fingers one more time. Remember, this detangler is free of preservatives, so it will not last long. Keep it in the fridge and use it within a week. Only the Best for Your Poodle Poodle grooming is a unique challenge few other breeds face. You need to keep up with it to ensure the most comfortable pup you can. Even small stress reactions or aversive behavior can indicate an underlying problem you might need to address. Thankfully, many poodles enjoy their grooming and will feel happy afterward. Mats and tangles can be irritating, brushing can be pleasant, and who wouldn't love a treat after their hair cut? Why not pick up a couple of brushes from our store? Before you know it, you'll have the habits down pat, and your fur baby will thank you. Read Further.

Life Span Did You Know? Although a mixed breed can take on any combination of traits from the parent breeds, Lhasa-Poo tend to be friendly, affectionate, and playful dogs that are loyal to their families. This designer dog breed is a small dog with a big heart. They tend to be social and bond closely with their families. They tend to have a sweet, friendly disposition and a playful, energetic personality. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Because their small size makes them susceptible to injury during accidental rough play or falls common to younger children, they are a better fit for older children who know how to interact appropriately with a dog and can handle them gently. As with any dog breed, socialization and training early on are important and the same is true for the Lhasa-Poo. They do make alert watchdogs, but they tend to be friendly dogs, so they do not tend to make good guard dogs. They can be prone to barking, but training early on can help curb this behavior. Lhasa-Poo are highly adaptable dogs. Their small size makes them a good fit for apartment living and they adapt just as well to larger homes. They do well in most climates, but may need to bundle up in the winter to keep warm. Having some basic winter dog products on hand is a big help when the temperatures drop. These small dogs are also sensitive to heat as with most dog breeds. Because these dogs thrive on attention and bond closely with their families, they do not like to be left alone. A mixed breed can inherit the genetic conditions of one, both, or neither of the parent breeds. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to avoid passing genetic conditions to puppies. Both of the parent breeds tend to be eager to please and highly intelligent. Although they tend to be easy to train, they can sometimes have a stubborn streak. So, your Lhasa-Poo can be highly trainable, but may have a stubborn streak, which can be challenging for first-time dog owners to navigate. For this mixed breed, it may be a good idea to be prepared to enroll in puppy training and obedience classes. Aside from the training, these classes can help further strengthen the bond you have with your puppy and are also a great opportunity to socialize a puppy. Lhasa-Poo tend to have a long coat that can be wavy or curly and can be clipped short. Although they do not shed much, they do need a lot of grooming in order for their coat to stay healthy. Because their fur is prone to tangles and mats, you will need to brush them daily. If their coat is clipped short, you can likely get away with brushing a few times a week. Bathing is on an as-needed basis, but your Lhasa-Poo will need professional grooming every weeks. In addition to coat care, you will also need to handle nail, ear, and dental care for your Lhasa-Poo. Nail trimming on a monthly basis is usually sufficient to keep them from growing too long. So, professional grooming sessions may take care of it. This can help prevent ear infections. Although they are small, Lhasa-Poo tend to have a moderate activity level and can sometimes have bursts of higher energy. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough for this dog. Try out a bunch of different activities to see what your dog likes to do best. They may enjoy taking an easy hike with you, going for trips to the dog park , or even swimming. A fully-grown Lhasa-Poo usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Lhasa-Poo generally lives years. The Lhasa-Poo coat is a coat of many colors. They can have a white, cream, apricot, black, brown, or combination colored-coat. Featured Lhasa-Poo Article. Since it is bred between the Lhasa Apso and the Poodle, it could inherit either a straight silky coat or a curly coat and can come in a variety of colors including white, black, brown, cream, apricot, or any combination thereof. The Lhasa-Poo also has a sturdy body, alert face, small round head, almond-shaped eyes, short legs, and hanging ears. Discover more about our Lhasa-Poo puppies for sale below! Temperament The Lhasa-Poo is an intelligent and affectionate breed with a tendency to please their owners; which makes training and picking up tricks easy. It is also an alert breed and can make a good watchdog. Like all dogs, if socialized from a young age the Lhasa-Poo would be good with other pets and children. Care Being a small breed, the Lhasa-Poo only requires just an average amount of daily exercise; such as routine walks. It is also important to brush the coat about twice a week to avoid matting and groomed by a professional about once every six months to avoid tangling. See store for details on a particular puppy. American Canine Hybrid Club.

Conclusion How Long Should Puppies Sleep Puppies should sleep 12 to 20 hours daily, depending on their age, breed, and environment. So it's perfectly normal for puppies to sleep a lot. They are generally only awake for 1 to 2 hours between naps, totaling about 5 to 6 hours during the day when they are little 8 to 12 weeks. Keep in mind that many factors influence how many hours a puppy sleeps. For example, a bulldog or pug puppy may love to sleep long hours, but their short noses may give them sleep apnea and make it hard for them to rest as much as puppies need. On the other hand, according to NCBI study , some working breeds, like the Belgian Malinois, are genetically programmed to be extremely alert and active. This means that even as puppies, they often don't want to settle down as often as they need to. A good schedule with a puppy ensures they get enough sleep. It also helps solve any problems, like potty training , when raising a puppy. Crate training your puppy is essential for this, as the crate is to the puppy what the cradle is to a baby. A regular nap and sleep schedule for puppies means regular time to settle in the crate. Your puppy may not be asleep the entire time set up a Petcube Camera nearby to monitor them , but they can have chew toys to keep them settled during their designated crate time. My own very active week-old Bull Terrier puppy, Arthur, has three scheduled 2-hour naps during the day at 8 a. During the night, he usually sleeps from 10 p. Why Do Puppies Sleep So Much Puppies sleep so much because sleeping lets the brain process everything they have learned and store new memories. So a nap after obedience training sessions is a great way to help your puppy learn. Sleeping also conserves the energy they need for their growing bodies and aids their immune system. So there's usually no need to worry if your 8-week-old or 3-month-old puppy sleeps a lot. They need this time for their brains and bodies to develop and learn. However, if your puppy suddenly starts sleeping much more than usual or you have an older dog, such as a 4-month-old puppy, sleeping all day, it may be time to see a veterinarian. When regular sleeping becomes lethargy, such as when your puppy is listless, weak, and only wants to lay down to sleep, it could be very serious. Possible reasons for lethargy in puppies include: Infections like distemper , parvo , or leptospirosis; Low blood sugar in more miniature puppies ; Severe conditions like liver or heart issues; Certain medications; Diseases or malnutrition from parasites like intestinal worms , heartworms , or tick-borne diseases. Puppy Sleep Chart By Age No matter how much pet parents love their dogs, they can't tell the exact number of hours puppies sleep during the day. Because we have to leave the dogs when we go to work without our supervision. Then we sleep at night and can't keep track of the dog's sleep. However, a nap and sleep schedule are very important for the growth and development of a pooch. It would be good to know how much your four-legged friend sleeps. So we have two options. The first one is to stay awake and quit your job to have more time to look after your dog. The second option is to subscribe to Pet Care. With this optional subscription service, you can watch what your dog is doing live anywhere and anytime. Also the function of recording and securely storing video on the cloud gives you a unique opportunity to view how much your dog slept during the day, even after some times. This will help you to create an accurate sleep schedule and identify deviations, if any. In my case, with Pet Care I found out that my own very active week-old Bull Terrier puppy, Arthur, has three scheduled 2-hour naps during the day at 8 a. As they get older, they start to spend more time interacting with each other and their environment. This differs according to individuals and breed, with some dogs sleeping up to 15 hours. However, small-breed puppies may be physically limited by their tiny bladders to go 6 to 8 hours without waking up because they need to pee. Large breeds may start sleeping through the night by three months. Remember, if your puppy suddenly starts waking up at night or having accidents when they were potty trained, immediately get them checked out for a urinary tract infection UTI. FAQ Do puppies snore? Many puppies snore. Other breed studies show that breeds that often snore as puppies include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, and, surprisingly, even the English Cocker Spaniel. Why do puppies sleep with one eye open? It's normal for puppies to sleep with one eye or even both eyes slowly open sometimes. This is because they have a third transparent eyelid called the nictitating membrane covering their eye when they sleep, giving the appearance of an open eye. However, certain conditions, like Brachycephalic Ocular Syndrome, mean the dog can't close the eyelids. Neurological issues like epilepsy or narcolepsy can prevent the eyes from shutting when they're asleep. Conclusion Puppies need ample sleep to support their growth, development, and well-being. By understanding their evolving sleep patterns at different ages and providing them with a suitable sleep environment, you're setting the stage for a happy, healthy, and well-rested canine companion. Was this article helpful? Learn more » The Pug has become one of the most popular dog breeds thanks to their quirky appearance and friendly attitude. This tiny breed does have some unusual habits that set it apart from other breeds and while some, unfortunately, are caused by their brachycephalic facial shape, some are behavior-based attributes. Among the traits that some people accuse the Pug of having is that they are lazy dogs that sleep a lot. You may notice it more because of the heavy breathing and snoring that tends to emanate from that squashed face. If your Pug is sleeping up to 14 hours a day, it is normal, but if yours is sleeping more than this, you may need to investigate to determine the cause and look for ways to remedy the problem. About The Pug Note Though the Pug is a popular breed, they unfortunately suffer from a plethora of health issues as a result of generations of selective breeding and therefore unfortunately have a lower quality of life when compared to other dog breeds. Veterinarians around the world are urging pet owners to not adopt the breed as their genetic shortcomings cannot be overcome by proper care and management alone. If you wish to adopt a Pug, please be mindful that they will most likely need extensive medical assistance throughout their life, which may include necessary reconstructive surgery. The Pug is a toy breed of companion dog. The breed has been developed to accompany their owner and provide companionship and has never been a working dog. The breed is known to be affectionate with family, will bond with visitors and even strangers, and they will usually get along with other dogs and potentially even cats. Because this is several hours a day longer than most people sleep, it can seem like Pugs spends their entire life snoozing. Puppies can sleep as long as 20 hours a day while senior Pugs may sleep for 15 or so hours a day. Although you can take some steps to reduce this a little, you need to ensure that your dog is getting enough sleep to recharge and stay healthy. Aim for about 12 hours of sleep a day. Top 6 Causes Of Excessive Sleeping If you determine that your Pug is sleeping more than 14 hours a day, take a look at the possible causes. Such causes include: 1. Boredom Pugs like fun and they enjoy spending fun time with their owners. If your Pug gets bored, one of their few options is to go to sleep in the hope of waking up to something more exciting. Try to introduce more playtime, offer a greater range of more exciting toys, and look for ways to provide stimulation that will keep your pup entertained. Image Credit: Piqsels 2. You should provide up to an hour a day of decent exercise, including walks and playtime. Make sure you provide two walks a day, of between 20 and 30 minutes each, and supplement this with some time playing with toys or playing games like hide and seek. Stick to an appropriate diet and if your Pug is really overweight, consult a vet so that they can advise you on the best next steps to shed the pounds and achieve a healthy weight. Image Credit: Tanya Dol, Shutterstock 4. Poor Diet Diet is as important to dogs as it is to any animal. Pugs do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with the supervision and approval of a canine nutritionist or your veterinarian. Pugs like to follow their humans around and partake in some of the same activities. Determine how long you spend in front of the TV to see whether this could be the cause of your sedentary pup. Image Credit: Michelle Scott, Pixabay 6. Illness Some illnesses can cause lethargy and even fairly minor ailments can wipe a dog out, in the same way illness can leave us feeling jaded and in need of extra rest. Conclusion Pugs can be fun-loving, affectionate, and jaunty little pets that want to spend as much time as possible with us. While they do sleep for up to 14 hours a day and make a lot of noise while they are sleeping, they actually have similar sleeping habits to other breeds of dog. If yours is sleeping for longer than 14 hours a day, it may be worth investigating to determine the cause and changing habits to help achieve optimal sleeping habits. Pug Sleeping Habits Overview Just about any Pug owner will agree that this breed gets a bit of a bad rep in regard to sleep. The Pug is sometimes thought of as a lazy breed; a dog that takes over your favorite chair and sleeps his life away, snoring as if he doesn't have a care in the world. While it may be true that a Pug does tend to snore - and make a few other interesting noises - he does not sleep more than any other breed and he is not lazy at all. In fact, Pugs are super animated, very personable and eager canines that often are curious, emotional and expressive. They thrive on attention and tend to mimic their owner's mood and vibes. If you sleep a lot, your Pug is not going to pace around the room; he'll be right by your side. And if you're active, he'll want to be right there as well; in fact many Pugs need to have limitations set because they'll push themselves to far and can have overheating and breathing issues. One element that may make it seem as if a Pug sleeps a lot is that he is so obvious when he does it. Other dogs may retreat quietly away and an hour later, an owner may wonder 'where's my dog? In this section we are going to cover: How much Pug puppies should sleep Normal amounts of sleep for adults and seniors Reasons why a Pug may have trouble sleeping Things that may cause a Pug to sleep too much Common questions about Pug sleeping habits Emma, 20 months old, photo courtesy of Helen Gastaldo How Much Sleep is Normal for Pugs Newborns - Newborn Pug puppies - from 1 day old to 3 weeks - sleep just about all of the time, up to 22 hours per day. They will mainly only be awake to eat; after that's it's right back to bed, warm and safe next to the dam and littermates. The age of 3 weeks old is a huge turning point; at this time both hearing and vision are working well and with this comes a new found curiosity. A heightened interest in exploring his little world and for playing with siblings will cause the pup to stay awake a bit longer now. From 3 weeks to 8 weeks, a puppy will sleep anywhere from 20 to 21 hours per day. Puppies - Owners of new puppies often want to know how much Pug puppies sleep because they worry about the pup being overtired and perhaps sleeping too much and missing out on things. The first couple of months - age 2 months to 5 months - a Pug puppy will sleep from 18 to 20 hours per day. This includes both nighttime sleep and naps taken all throughout the day. This is a really funny stage, because often a Pug puppy will be so interested in his world that he struggles to stay awake. It's not uncommon for a Pug to zonk out in the middle of playing or even eating, resting his head on the rim of the bowl because he just couldn't make it to his bed. Each month that the Pug matures, he will sleep a bit less and stay awake for longer periods. By 6 months old, many Pugs are on the sleeping schedule of adults. Adults - Adult Pug dogs sleep roughly 14 per day. There are some reasons for sleeping less or more discussed ahead. This may seem like a lot - especially when compared to how much we get- however most of this will be done at night. When you subtract 8 or 9 hours of nighttime snoozing from the average of 14, this leaves 5 to 6 hours of on-and-off again naps. The amount of naps will depend on how much the Pug sleeps at night and most will shadow what their owners do. It's very common for this breed to start getting tuckered out when lights are dimmed and their humans are relaxing before bed. It's typical for a Pug to drift off about an hour before his human family; he'll try to hang on but will conk out as the house quiets down and everyone is relaxing. Then, most will pop right awake as soon as the alarm goes off of if they sense that their human has awoken. It's rare for a Pug to stay sleeping in the morning while everyone starts their day. Since canines - like us- need a good amount of deep REM sleep, if they do follow their owner's sleep schedule of 8 hours a night, this leaves a good 6 or so hours that will be napped away during the day. And if an owner is only sneaking in 6 or 7 hours with the Pug following suit, this makes for a lot more napping of up to 7 or 8 hours during the day. So, how much you actually see your Pug snoozing will depend a lot of your own schedule and whether or not you are home with your dog or are away at work or school. Seniors - As a dog ages, there are many changes… decreased metabolism, a slowing down that reduces activity, etc. These are gradual changes, so you may not notice that your Pug sleeps an extra 20 minutes or so; but as the years pass, this adds up to falling asleep an hour earlier than usual and it is then that it really becomes apparent. When a Pug Has Trouble Sleeping With puppies, it can take a while for puppies to accept their schedule; many may seem downright nocturnal, making you wonder if somehow an owl was crossed in the Pug's bloodline. It takes a couple of months for a pup to understand the cues of a day winding down and feeling isolated can cause a puppy to stay awake whining or barking at night. For those of any age, this breed will show appreciation for many of the care elements you provide and often won't be shy at all to announce when things are not right. Here are the top reasons why a Pug may not be sleeping as good as usual: 1: Quality of the bed - Choosing the right bed for your Pug is important for this breed that tends to have hips and back issues. Keep in mind that beds do not last forever; after 4 years or so, cushions can lose buoyancy and won't be as supportive as they once were. Also, a puppy may be outgrowing his smaller bed and seniors may a thicker mattress to better support aching joints. This has a base of 2-inch medical-grade memory foam, water-proof inner and outer fabric, and a cover that is resistant to mold and dust mites and washable. Pugs need a good place to rest but still like to be close to the 'action' so that - if they happen to prefer it, they can join in. While it is a good idea to give your Pug his own space - especially if you want him to get used to that area for when home alone - it should in a quiet corner of an familiar room that is used by the family such as the living room or den. Some owners may move a Pug's sleeping area further away if the dog snores loudly or is otherwise causing a disruption; however, a compromise should be made so that a Pug doesn't feel quarantined. Additionally, any chronic snoring noises should be evaluate by the vet for possible stenotic nares, elongated palate and other issues common to brachycephalic breeds. Drafts, which can cause interrupted sleep, are common near windows and doors, but can also be found hear exterior walls. Keep in mind that any cold spots may only be near the floor, so you may want to get down to your Pug's level to access things. With sleep apnea, a dog will stop breathing for 10 to 20 seconds, repeatedly throughout the night. While some stay asleep, many will gasp and wake up. This can cause sleep deprivation, which often manifests as troubled, moody behavior the next day. Reasons a Pug May Sleep Too Much Dogs will vary the amount of time that they sleep by an hour or so, just like humans. However, whenever there is a marked increase in how much a Pug is sleeping this is reason to take note. Possible reasons include: Mimicking- As we touched on a bit earlier, this breed is notorious for copying his owner. Even if you don't sleep much, if you spend a lot of time watching TV or zoning out with video games, etc. After all, very few Pugs will run around and stay super active if the owner is plopped on the sofa, aside from young puppies that may have high energy levels. Lack of Stimulation - If a dog has nothing better to do, he'll often do one of two things: bark or sleep. This breed often chooses the later and you really can't blame him. Dogs need interaction, challenges, sights to see and scents to smell! It's best for a Pug to have a fun session of command training after dinner, be taken for a late evening walk and have some interactional playtime as opposed to just lazing around. A dog's world is as small or as large as you allow it to be. If a Pug is kept at home without much going on, he's going to sleep more. If he's taken to different places, goes on new walking routes, is challenged by learning new commands, etc. Illness or Injury - Any time that a dog suddenly sleeps much more than normal, this is a red flag that there may be a medical condition. For puppies that appear to be suddenly weak and dizzy, this is a possible sign of hypoglycemia, most often seen in those 2 to 5 months old. With adults, any condition that causes the body to fight off disease or caused discomfort will make a dog sleep more. If you notice that your Pug is sleeping much more than usual, you cannot attribute it to any of the issues mentioned above and it lasts for longer than 3 days, this is your signal that it's time for a vet visit, even if there are no other symptoms. I'd swear my Pug does dream, he moves around and even seems to mumble. His eyes move around under his lids too when he's asleep. A: Yes, absolutely. Studies have proven that dogs do dream and quite often. They have eye twitching, lip movements and even vocalizations that you wrote about that point to REM sleep. REM sleep is the phase of deep sleep when dreams occur. It is believed that dogs and other animals can have complex dreams full of memories of actual events. So that's pretty cool; our Pugs are most likely having dreams about us. Q: Should my Pug sleep in my bed? Aside from hogging the mattress is there anything wrong with it? Would it be interpreted as spoiling? A: While you'll want to hold off until your Pug is housebroken, there's nothing inherently wrong with a Pug sleeping in his owner's bed. There are some cons, however. Due to heavy shedding you'll have to be prepared for how much fur may end up on your sheets, blankets and pillows. Also, know that once your Pug is allowed to sleep in your bed, that spot is claimed. Also, if an owner is currently single, some thought should go into the future when someone else may want the other side of the bed. Q: Is it okay for Pugs to sleep on their backs? My Pug will fall asleep, belly up, and his paws up in the air. It's pretty comical but I'm wondering if this can cause breathing problems or anything else? A: While this is not the 'normal' canine way of lying down to sleep, a small percentage of dogs do sleep this way. If your Pug finds that sleeping on his back is the optimal position for him and he must if he's doing it , this might actually be his way of breathing better at night. When curled up, this constricts the neck and makes breathing a bit more difficult. But if a Pug naturally lies on his back, neck extended back, this will open up the windpipe and may offer him better airflow though the nasal passages. Q: Is it normal for a Pug to sleep with his mouth open? My Pug does this and kind of drools while he's sleeping. A: Being a brachycephalic breed, Pugs are prone to stenotic nares, which essentially means narrowed nostrils. This can make it hard for a Pug to breathe correctly out of his nose. Excessive drooling while sleeping is a possible sign of sleep apnea. And snoring is a sign as well. But, with that said, if your Pug seems fine otherwise and the drooling is not too bad, it's nothing to be concerned with. Did you find this article helpful? You may also like: Pug Dog Separation Anxiety - Effective ways to help your Pug cope when home alone, whether you are gone for just a couple of hours or for the day. Pug Paw Care - The paws are an often overlooked area of the body, but one that should not be ignored. Read tips to keep your Pug's paws in good shape and help for treatment of common paw issues. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Pugs puppies from 3 — 8 weeks will sleep anywhere around 20 hours per day. Adult Pugs will sleep 14 hours a day and that is a lot more than other active dogs. It may sound this breed does nothing but sleep, most of it occurs at night. Basically, it comes down to how you raise them and the amount of attention you give them. If you choose to sit around watching television all day, this breed will be happy sleeping on your lap. Check out these playpens for Pugs to help increase their activity level. Pug Puppies: Just like babies, your new pup will require more sleep at this stage in their life. This includes the hours they sleep at night and the short cat naps they take throughout the day. Adult Pugs: At this stage in life, this breed can sleep up to 14 hours per day. At this point in their life, their metabolism slows down and they just want to spend their days lying around. Where Do Pugs Sleep? It basically comes down to a personal preference on where you want Fido to sleep. Read this article to find out whether Pugs can see in the dark and if they need a night light. Their Own Bed: Mindy had her own pet bed and this is where she slept and took all her naps. Dogs who are crate trained start thinking about their crate as their own little private den. Do Pugs Sleep A Lot? The short answer is it depends. Adult Pugs have a tendency to sleep quite a bit, especially if you are not keeping them active. If your Pug sleeps all day, then it might have to do with your current lifestyle. This breed tends to mimic their owners behavior. Of course, if you have an active lifestyle and your Pugs sleeping day and night, you may want to contact your veterinarian to find out if their are any underlying healthy concerns. Can Pugs Sleep Outside? This toy breed is an inside dog and should not be left outside for long periods of time. Because of their short noses, they are extremely sensitive to cold, humidity, and heat. They should never be left outdoors unattended for long periods of time. We realized that Mindy loved sleeping outside, she slept on the mulch in our garden. However, she had access to a pet door to come back in when she got tired of being outside. If your Pug loves sleeping outside, make sure they can get back inside. Leaving them outside by themselves can be dangerous and you could end up coming home to a dead Pug. Pugs with this sleep apnea may temporarily stop breathing, which causes them to wake up throughout the night. This can cause them to feel tired and groggy throughout the day. Mindy had a small case of insomnia when she gained a lot of excess weight. It eventually went away when her diet helped her shed those unwanted pounds. Insomnia: This occurs when your dog has trouble falling asleep or constantly wakes up throughout the night. Insomnia is usually a sign of a bigger problem, such as an illness, an injury or anxiety. If you spend a lot of time watching television, working on the computer, playing video games and etc, then your Pug has nothing better to do but sleep. If your pooch is just lounging around and sleeping all day, it could be a sign that they need more attention. You can improve their quality of life by getting them a companion or spending more time with them. Start taking them for short walks in the morning or the late afternoons. How Do Pugs Sleep? This breed loves their sleep and a few times we caught Mindy sleeping sitting up. At first, we thought she was watching TV, but she was actually sleeping! Here are some of the other awkward positions and what they mean. When Mindy was young, she loved sleeping on her back like a puppy. As she got older, she slept half on and half off of her bed. On Their Back, Paws in the Air Pug sleeping on back When a dog sleeps curled in a ball, it helps them conserve energy. When your Pug sleeps on their back with their belly exposed, they are trying to cool off. Their bellies have less fur and their paws hold sweat glands, and when they are exposed, it helps them keep cool while sleeping. It may not look comfortable to you and me, but this position indicates a dog is very comfortable because they are leaving their most vulnerable areas exposed. If your Pug is more active during their sleep, it means that they are in the REM stage of their sleep. Movement during their sleep is more common among puppies and senior dogs. Because it allows them to get take a quick nap and get back on their feet quickly. Pug puppies are very active, especially, if they live with other dogs or cats. Half On And Half Off Their Bed Pug dog sleeping When Mindy entered her senior years, we started noticing her awkward sleeping position of lying half on and half off her bed. We had no clue what it meant, but soon realized that she started sleeping this way due to the aches and pains in her body. Related Questions Why do pugs like to sleep under covers? Smaller dogs like to burrow themselves under the covers because it acts like shelter. If you let your dog sleep with you on a regular basis, your bed represents their shelter or den. Read this article to find out why dogs sleep under the covers. Your bed has become their happy place and crawling under the blankets represents the inner sanctum of their den and it is the safe place to be. They will spend most of their day playing and take short naps throughout the day. How Long Do Pugs Sleep? A normal healthy adult Pug will sleep around hours, depending on your lifestyle. My Pug Sleeps All Day. .It most likely has to do with the fact that your Pug is bored, especially, if they are younger. The required amount of sleep will vary by breed, however, most adult dogs will sleep around hours. If you feel that they are sleeping too much and are not dealing with any health issues. Then take a look at your life. Remember, this breed is known to mimic their owners. You May Also Like. But for a toy breed like the Pug, how much is too much? Many Pug owners find themselves worrying that their dog spends way too much time in dreamland and not enough time playing and socializing. Do Pugs sleep more than other dogs? What is considered normal and at what point should you be concerned? Why does my Pug sleep so much? Sleeping between 10 — 14 hours a day is completely normal behavior for a Pug. Knowing how much sleep is normal for a Pug may put your mind at ease. But if your Pug has an unusual affinity for sleep and is dozing his life away, some changes are called for. The norm for most breeds is 10 hours, so a Pug typically sleeps just a bit more than the average dog. Depending on your sleeping habits, the majority of these hours will be during the night while you too are sleeping. So, if you average 9 hours of sleep each night, chances are that your Pug does too. Nine hours or so of nocturnal sleep mean that for the majority of the next day, your Pug should be awake and active, only catching a few naps here and there. Some owners find that this is indeed the case. Is that normal? You may not want to hear this, but the problem often lies with the owner. Cause: Boredom This is the number one cause of snoozing away the daylight hours. Your poor Pug simply has nothing better to do. Picture the following for a moment. No cell phone, computer, books, or TV. Nothing to engage you or hold your interest. You guessed it. The same thing happens to Pugs frequently. When they are left with nothing better to do, sleep is the only appealing option. Granted, many dog owners must head off to work for the majority of the day, leaving their four-legged buddy home alone without much to keep him alert and occupied and awake. Treat-dispensing ball toy — As your dog rolls, chews, and pounces on the ball, several treats are released to encourage more playtime. Interactive fitness robot — With this toy, you can schedule interactive play at certain times throughout the day right from your phone. Enlist help — Arrange for a friend or family member to drop by once or twice per day to take your little sleepyhead out for a short walk. No friends available? Try booking a professional dog walker on sites such as Rover or Wag. Doggy daycare — Chances are that there is at least one privately run daycare for dogs near you. If not, consider hiring a pet sitter to come by daily and spend a few hours interacting with your dog. Cause: Too Little Exercise Habits form easily. It takes motivation and encouragement to get you up and moving, right? The same is true for your Pug. Head out there with him and engage him in some fun activities. Get creative to hold his interest and make exercise fun. At the very least, establish the habit of going for a couple of short walks each day. Head out in a different direction every so often to keep things interesting. Cause: Obesity Pugs are a breed particularly prone to obesity. Guess what inactive pugs spend their time doing. Sleeping — which only makes the issue of obesity worse. Your vet can recommend an appropriate diet plan and exercise regimen to help your Pug shed some pounds and regain mobility. If your Pug is filling up on junk, he may not be getting enough required nutrients to keep him active and energetic. The result? A constantly tired, lethargic Pug. Not good. Solution Feed the highest quality kibble that you can afford so that your Pug will receive the necessary nutrients that he needs to convert food into energy and get off of that couch. Make sure that each bite of food he eats is nutrient-rich, not loaded with unneeded fat, sugar, and calories. If you spend hours at a time relaxing in the family room, your Pug is likely to be right by your side relaxing too i. Solution If your Pug is going to mimic your behavior, and he will, set a good example by moving around frequently throughout the day. Solution If you suspect that your Pug may not be feeling well, a trip to the veterinarian is in order. Your vet can run tests to diagnose the problem and get your Pug started on the road to recovery. Related Posts:. A year-old pug will require around 12 hours of sleep every night. If your pup wakes up in the middle of the night and starts barking or whining, it probably means they need to go outside. Pug puppies tend to sleep even more than adult pugs. A newborn pug puppy usually sleeps about 18 hours every day. Pug Sleeping Reasons 1. Mimicking their masters Pugs are well known for their ability to mimic the behavior of their human masters. They will eat simultaneously, walk in the same stride and even sleep in the same positions. If you always curl up with your Pug on your lap, then they will do the same when they think that no one is watching. Suffering from stress or anxiety Pugs are compassionate creatures, and their human moods very easily influence them. If your Pug suffers from stress or anxiety, they may go to sleep to escape the problem. This can be triggered by changes in routine or anything that causes tension. If you find that your Pug sleeps excessively, you should speak to your vet about the best way of reducing their stress. Lack of exercise This is one of the leading causes of canine sleep disorders, and it is often overlooked. Pugs are gentle creatures by nature, but they need to participate in the exercise. They have a high energy level, and if this is not satisfied, they will find other ways to spend their time. It may not be a problem in the summer when they can spend hours chasing insects in the garden, but if you cannot take them out during colder weather, they will look for alternative ways to burn off their energy. Pug sleeping problems can often be solved by giving them more exercise, but they should balance their need to rest. There is no danger in them drinking too much, but it may cause them to sleep for long periods. Old age As with any breed, Pugs get older and suffer from different ailments that can cause them to sleep for more extended periods at a time. Older dogs need less exercise and often sleep more than their younger counterparts. Medical problems As with any breed, Pugs are prone to some medical issues. If they suffer from a severe condition, they may sleep for extended periods as a coping mechanism. Pugs are beautiful animals that will offer years of love and affection. If you find that your Pug is excessively tired, there may be reasons behind it. By identifying the problem, you can choose the best course of action, and your Pug can continue to enjoy a happy and healthy lifestyle. Caring for a Pug sleeping schedule: Pugs tend to sleep in the same spot all the time, by your feet or on your lap. You should make sure that their sleeping spot is clean to avoid skin or fur issues. Please do not disturb them when they are sleeping, or they will be startled. Do not allow other animals to disturb their sleeping habits, as they can become territorial over a good spot. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements around the Pug when napping during the day because it will mess with their sleep cycle. It is usual for a Pug to whine, grunt, or walk around when sleeping. Please do not wake up a Pug in deep sleep because it can be dangerous for their health. If your Pug is sleepwalking, ensure that you are not blocking them from a clear path to their potty spot. Pugs are also known to sleep talk, whistle, and snore, depending on how deep they sleep. Please do not allow children to disturb the sleeping habits of a Pug, as it can be hazardous. Yes, Pugs do have REM. This is because they are dogs and all dogs including Pugs have REM. REM is a sleep stage characterized by rapid eye movements and dreaming. Do Pugs suffer insomnia? Yes, Pugs can suffer from insomnia. They may also be more prone to getting sick because they cannot fight off infection. Owners of pugs should make sure their pet gets plenty of exercise and try to establish a regular sleep schedule. If your Pug has trouble sleeping, talk to your vet about possible solutions. How long do Pugs sleep at night? On average, Pugs sleep for around 14 hours per day. This varies slightly depending on the Pug, but 14 hours is right for the average dog. They tend to have two distinct periods of sleep — one during the day and one at night. Conclusion People who own pugs often joke that their dog is always sleeping. Post navigation. These dogs tend to sleep more than other breeds. They even snore, snort and make some weird noises that may sound ridiculous to you. Some might say they are lazy. But, Pugs are not lazy. They are interactive creatures that enjoy playing at any time. Yet, these dogs are curious and emotional, striving for your attention most of the time. Learn about your Pug sleeping habits to understand their health better. In this article, I will have answers to some questions about the sleeping habits of Pugs. The sleeping time of Pugs varies on their age: Pug Newborns Baby Pugs need a lot of sleep for their growth. On average, a newborn Pug can sleep up to 22 hours a day. They only wake up to eat and go to the bathroom. From the third week and on, Pug newborn pups will grow as their vision and hearing develop. So does their curiosity. Pug puppies at this stage will spend time playing with their littermates and exploring their world. Once the Pug puppies open the eyes, they will reduce their sleeping hours to 20 to 22 hours a day. Pug Puppies In the first couple of months, Pug puppies will sleep in between 18 to 20 hours. They spend the rest of the time eating and exploring their world. From 3 weeks old, the puppies will roam around their area, hopping on their paws, sniffing, and chewing. From 6 months old, the pup will sleep like an adult Pug. Adult Pugs Pugs from 6 months old sleep even less. They spend more time socializing, exploring the world, and shadowing you. They will sleep roughly around 14 hours a day; that includes nighttime snoozing of hours. During the day, Pugs spend around hours napping after being in high gear. Senior Pugs Old Pug dogs need extra hours to rest as they reduce activities. During the day, a senior Pug may nap more than when they were young. In particular, they may fall asleep earlier than they used to. A puppy Pug can sleep for more than 20 hours. Your Pug sleep habits may differ from others. But when compared to other breeds, Pugs sleep much more. Usually, a healthy Pug spends 9 hours for his nocturnal sleep. But if the Pug adapts to your sleeping hours, they may go to bed and wake at the same time as you do. Then, in the daytime, the dog may snuggle on the couch and catch a few naps for some hours. This is entirely normal. Pugs sleep more than enough. There are a variety of reasons for oversleeping in Pugs. If your grown Pug naps more than 5 hours a day, this can be a problem. Pugs demand a lot of attention from you. They need you around to spend up their energy. If a Pug falls into boredom, he will nap to wait for you. Sleeping this much is not healthy. That said, Pugs are not dogs to be left alone. They tend to sleep through the lonely hours. You can invest in some automatic interactive toys. But without your participation, Pugs are unlikely to get up. However, be aware. This could result in inside destruction. Alternatively, ask help from a friend or a relative to drop by twice a day. Daycare dog service: This kind of service will walk your dog hours a day and play with the pup if you are busy Fitness robot : This toy is a bit costly but may worth it as it keeps your Pug interactive without your presence. You can schedule the time for the bot to run and trigger your dog to play. Ball dispenser : This auto-dispenser can be a playmate for the Pug. But make sure you train your dog to use the machine before putting it to work. Obesity Obesity can make Pugs more sedentary. Without much exercise, an overweight Pug tends to sleep more to deal with the boredom. Also, you will get consulted on the exercises appropriate for an obese Pug. Low to no exercises Being lazy and not exercising is a bad habit which you should not form at the beginning of his young life. Instead, it would be best if you encouraged your Pug dog to romp and play rather than lounging on the sofa. Pugs are dogs that love to make their owner happy. That means you are the motivation. So, take the fetch to the backyard and start a game. Poor Diet Like people, Pugs become weak when consuming low-quality food, too many treats, and excessive fatty foods. Feed your Pug with high-quality food recipes for Pugs. As Pugs are prone to obesity, you should consider low fat, sugar, and calorie food. Mirroring As a part of the shadowing habit, Pugs tend to mimic you in the sleeping routine. That means, if you sleep, the pooch will drift off with you. So, if your sleeping schedule is chaotic, that will apply to your Pug too. Solution: This can be an advantage when your Pug tries to mirror you. Be awake during the day to play with your Pug. Play with him and help him use up his energy while giving him attention. Then, you can allow him to nap for an hour or so. Then, repeat the playtime. Sickness Sleeping is an integral part of healing. So, no wonder why Pugs, or any dog, would sleep through if they get sick. However, you should keep an eye on your Pug pup and wake him up on his mealtime. Your Pug also needs to be up to visit the vet and take medicine. Solution: A visit to your animal clinic is a must when your Pug is not feeling well. While under-recovery, your Pug needs a lot of time to rest, let him sleep, and wake him up for food. Pug Sleeping Troubles While some Pugs sleep soundly while dreaming at night, others struggle to sleep. Some owners find their puppy Pugs stay awake and howl out of isolation. Many of them feel insecure in a new home. However, other Pugs are awake and whine because they have enough sleep all day. Other than that, there are several care elements involved in Pug sleeping troubles. Bad bed The fact is Pugs are prone to hips and back issues. More than that, choose a bed that resists mold and dust mites. This helps your Pug sleep without disturbance. Besides, temperature changes also cause your Pug to lose sleep. Respiratory problem Breathing problems are common in Pugs due to their flat-wrinkled face. But with sleep apnea, a Pug will stop breathing for up to 20 seconds. This causes sleep deprivation. This leads to health troubles and misbehavior in the long run. The REM stage is a deep sleep where dogs may dream. However, Pugs are not heavy sleepers. Why do Pugs Snore in their Sleep? That affects the construction of the nostril, making it hard for the air to flow. Lethargy in Pugs? What is it? They could be sleepy, or they could be sick. But if you notice that your Pug sleeps through the day and lacks appetite, he is probably ill. Do Pugs Suffer Insomnia? When Pugs are restless at night, that means they have insomnia. The reasons vary from changes in the environment, diet, illness to uncomfortable bedding. If you want to know the source of insomnia in your Pug, take some time to observe. A healthy Pug should sleep well at night and nap during the day. But if your Pug is struggling to fall asleep, you should: Address the underlying cause Make sure she gets enough exercise during the day Supply melatonin.

Conclusion How many calories does your German Shepherd need? German Shepherds were bred to work all day herding livestock, which makes them high-energy dogs who are active both physically and mentally. This means that adult German Shepherds need a high-calorie diet of at least 1, calories to give them the energy to run as well as stay sharp. How many calories does your German Shepherd puppy need? As your German Shepherd puppy grows and seems to have an endless energy supply , she needs a calorie-rich diet. According to the National Research Council of the National Academies, a puppy needs twice as many calories per pound of body weight as an adult of the same breed. So, an adult German Shepherd weighing 70 lb needs about 20 calories per lb per day. That would mean that a German Shepherd puppy who will reach 70 lb as an adult needs 40 calories per lb per day. I advise you to discuss this with your vet and work out an accurate amount for your puppy. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? As for a feeding schedule, once your pup is on solid food at about 4 weeks old , you should be feeding her 4 meals a day. At 4 months old, you can reduce this to 2 or 3 meals a day, and continue with this routine into adulthood. Common health problems in German Shepherds - how diet can help them Elbow and hip dysplasia Unfortunately, the primary health concern for German Shepherds is hip dysplasia , which is a malformation of the joint. It is a condition that can get worse if your dog is overweight or obese, so keeping her at a healthy weight is imperative. Another thing that can help this condition though, of course, will not cure it is to look for dog foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin which are both natural substances , as they stimulate the body to repair damaged cartilage. Bloat Large dogs like German Shepherds can suffer from bloat, which is a serious and sometimes fatal condition. It occurs if your dog is very active just after eating, or if your dog eats a very large amount in one go. For this reason, it is highly important that you feed your German Shepherd 2 or 3 small meals during the day instead of in one large sitting, and let her rest for at least half an hour after eating before letting her play or do any physical exercise. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds — a macronutrient breakdown So how can we tell which is the best dog food for German Shepherds? Well, we need to look at a breakdown of what the nutritional requirement is for the breed regarding how much protein, carbohydrates, fat and vitamins and minerals she needs. Here they are, in descending order: Protein Dogs that are large, muscular and active like the German Shepherd need especially high amounts of protein, as they use it to keep their muscles strong and can also burn it off as energy. It is also essential for your German Shepherd's coat health. Her coat which is double, and usually long is mostly made up of proteins, so she needs a high amount for it to grow and stay healthy. How much protein does she need? You must check with your vet to get an exact figure for your dog. German Shepherds also need the right amount of fat to keep its long coat shiny and skin well-moisturized. Not only this, but such an intelligent dog will benefit greatly from those omega fatty acids, which aid her cognitive function. Carbohydrates As already mentioned German Shepherds are active, so some carbs should be present in her dog food. Many dogs, including the German Shepherd, can have allergies to grains like corn, soy, and wheat, however, so I would advise you to go for a dog food that sources their carbohydrates elsewhere. You could try her on whole grains like brown rice, barley, and oats, which are all good quality carbs. If you find these don't agree with her either, go for a grain-free food that uses vegetables such as sweet potatoes as the source of carbohydrates. Vitamins and minerals Your German Shepherd needs vitamins and minerals to keep her coat and immune system healthy. Not only this, but the antioxidant properties found in Vitamin C and E also serve as good brain food for her. Just as we do, she can get these from fruits and vegetables. A good choice of dog food will contain a variety of these. Additionally, the formula is often described as the best german shepherd puppy food on the market due to its inclusion of DHA — an omega-3 fatty acid that works wonders in ensuring your pup will have optimal visual and cognitive development. The proprietary formula is bursting with prime ingredients, one such example being chicken fat; a fundamental staple in dog food for providing essential fatty acids for your Shepherd, as well as improving the overall palatability of the kibble recipe itself. You can certainly discern the exclusive nature of this formula from their incorporation of live, naturally occurring microorganisms probiotics that will help your German Shepherd digest their beloved dog food. Best Dog food for German Shepherds Buying Guide Are you feeling confident with the first-rate formula you've chosen for your dog from our comprehensive list, yet not so sanguine with regard to the knowledge you need to confidently raise your German Shepherd from a puppy to a boisterous adult? Read on to have your concerns answered in our buying guide and FAQ. For example, hand-picking dog food that lists "poultry meal" aren't going to satisfy your dog's nutritional needs in comparison to those that specify "chicken meal". High-protein content: Like all large dogs, the first ingredient on any dog food's ingredient list should be a protein-based nutrient such as chicken meal, egg protein, or beef byproducts. It is essential that your dog receives substantial amounts of protein, as a large breed like German Shepherds require it to build strong bones and joints. Although plant-based protein sources are also recommended, your dog does not possess the biochemical adaptations to digest them properly. For a senior dog struggling with the effects of aging e. For puppies, omega-3 fatty acids help strengthen their brain and, consequently, advance their ability to learn. How many artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives are in this formula? Contrarily, you'll certainly be upset when discovering that many artificial colors can be injurious to your dog's health — even, in some severe cases, causing migraines and cancer. It's important to note that food terminology such as 'natural' and 'organic' is tossed around without a second thought in the dog food industry, whereas in human food, the distinction is much more clear-cut. In other words, the stomach rotates on its axis, interrupting the flow of food and water occurring between the esophagus and the duodenum. As a result the stomach becomes bloated, obstructing veins in the abdomen and potentially damaging the dog's internal organs. German Shepherds in particular are prone to this condition due to their large, deep chests. Therefore, if you see signs that your German Shepherd may be bloated — for example, gagging after they eat, an extended stomach, or lethargy — your German Shepherd must be taken to a vet immediately. There will be very little time, ranging from minutes to hours, to get medical attention for your German Shepherd, so act urgently. Hip Dysplasia: When it comes to common health issues in German Shepherds, hip dysplasia is the most common. Joint health in these dogs is poor due to inbreeding at the outset of breed standardization, and because of the size of these dogs. Hip Dysplasia is a hereditary disfigurement of the hip that brings the dog much pain and is incredibly difficult to treat. To prevent hip dysplasia, take your German Shepherd on short walks and always favor moderate exercise to keep their joints loose. Our Top Pick So, out of all the reputable brands showcased to you today, what dog food would we choose to ensure our German Shepherd is the happiest and healthiest the possibly could be? As part of the family-owned Diamond Pet Food company, Taste of the Wild have access to scientifically advanced, state-of-the-art facilities in America that have allowed them to create species-specific proprietary probiotics , minimizing any risk of your Shepherd developing gastrointestinal disorders. Full to the brim with superfoods, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, all the reputable ingredients within this formula are sourced from long-established and trustworthy suppliers. Finally, with real roasted lamb as the primary ingredient, you'll never have to encourage your German Shepherd to finish up their meal — if anything, this delectable formula will be wolfed down without even a second thought! A: You should switch your German Shepherd puppy from puppy food to dog food when they are around 12 months old. However, the switch entirely depends on their growth and development. Therefore, you should seek advice from your veterinarian on when to make the switch. Q: How many calories does an adult German Shepherd need per day? A: According to the National Research Council of the National Academies, an inactive or senior adult German Shepherd must be fed between 1, and 1, calories of prime dog food every day. Correspondingly, the council recommend feeding active German Shepherds between 1, and 2, calories. Q: What types of food should never be given to German Shepherd dogs? A: Fruits: Many owners may be unaware that fruits such as raisins and grapes are toxic to dogs due to the cyanide in their seeds. If ingested, these fruits may induce kidney failure in your pup. Accordingly, keep them away from your pet at all costs. High fat foods: If improper ingestion of high fat foods occurs, this may lead to pancreatitis — a dangerous condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed. Dairy: As the majority of dogs are lactose intolerant, never give in to their puppy eyes and offer them a lick of your ice cream. Related Reads. Rated 5 out of 5 by StephanieW from Love the food but confused about ingredient label! My rescue GSD loves the High Prairie food, and it has done wonders for her overall appearance - her coat has thickened and softened so much - and she's so playful and happy. Easy on the tummy, too. She never gets sick eating it. My friend uses the High Prairie puppy formula. My only confusion is over the labeling. Not a lot of dog foods include it. However, when you look at the actual label on the bag, taurine is omitted. Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by Mabel P Stewart from Never been so happy to see my dog eat! Mabel is a 6 month old GSD mix puppy. Mabel was having some stomach problems, wasn't interested in eating, had started to lose weight because she was vomiting up the food we had her on at the time and no it wasn't cheap stuff , and also has a sensitivity to chicken. We took her to the vet and had a barium swallow and x-rays done just to be sure there wasn't an obstruction. Everything came back normal. So we bought a bag and after a few days on this food she is excited to eat, dances around her food dish, has more energy, and is back to acting like an energetic puppy! Our Dogs Love it. .She is 7yrs old now. She Does Great on it. We are going to cut back and see if that Does the Trick. If not will be switching to small breed adult TOTW. .Thank You For a Great Product. .Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by Molly from My owner was away from his computer.Hi, my name is Molly. My owner switched me over to this after arriving at my new home. I must say, I really like the taste! I also love the ingredients… no corn or other grains to upset my little tummy, and the first ingredient is buffalo… yummy! There are also lots of vitamins and other good things to keep me healthy. This is my first Amazon post, and I hope my review will help other dogs who see this post make a smart decision when considering puppy food. Thank you for reading, and tell your owners about this. We changed our girls food to Taste of the Wild Puppy and could not be more pleased!!! The food has made our girl look so healthy!! The big surprise is that as most knows a German Shepard sheds a lot of hair but feeding her Taste of Wild has reduced the shedding to a minimum!!! Wow we are so grateful to be able to get this good food for our baby and to see how healthy she looks!!!! Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by Mazza from Perfect Pup food We rescued a 4 month old puppy from a hoarding situation. She was horribly under weight, her fur and skin were in bad shape. We have been feeding our other dogs Taste of the Wild for years. We had never used the puppy formula before so we gave it a chance. We were impressed with how quickly our little girls put on weight, thickened her very short coat, and how soft her coat became. Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by pvtcarlswife from the only food i will feed my pets We had a heart dog who owned us for 14 years. They both love the food, they both are healthy and thriving, we did get them very young as the person that had them was ready for them to be gone at 4 weeks, they were eating TOTW Puppy High Prairie from 4 weeks, they are now 14 weeks and are active and healthy puppies. We also feed TOTW to our 2 cats. Date published: Rated 5 out of 5 by Shachafit from Picky and sensitive pup loves it I have a czechoslovakian wolfdog pup, and ever since I brought her she never liked any of the dry foods I tried and always had diarrhea. Following many frustrating months, I contacted a breeder from abroad and she highly recommended feeding my pup with taste of the wild. My pup loves it and the diarrhea stopped almost immediately after she began eating this food, she gained lots of weight and her fur became lovely. Date published: .Large Comfort Care — For dogs who are skittish and have nervous behaviors. Large Joint Care — For dogs who need support for joint health. Coat Care — For dogs of all sizes with dull and lackluster coats. Large Digestive Care — For dogs with sensitive stomachs. Large Dental Care — For dogs who are prone to tartar. Large Weight Care — For dogs who are prone to gaining weight. Large Sensitive Skin Care — For dogs with dry coats and sensitive skin. Taste of the Wild for German Shepherds Taste of the Wild has somewhat of a reputation for being an artisanal brand. It is a proudly family-owned company that offers premium dog food at fairly affordable prices. As a company, their competitive advantage lies in their belief that our pets should eat the way nature intended them to. Dog food by Taste of the Wild contains not only high-quality protein sources but also filler-free carbohydrates. Additionally, they put great emphasis on probiotics to achieve optimum gut health. Although they have some puppy variants, most of their products differ primarily in the main protein source and, consequently, flavor. Apart from flavor, the best choice for your German Shepherd would be based on their sensitivities and allergies. For example, some Taste of the Wild recipes are egg-free. Reason for asking is the facts sections talks about cups. Asked by: Lilly Hi, Lilly. In this case, .The cups you read about in the FAQ section is in reference to our dry formulas. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: Can I feed this to my toy breed puppy and what serving size? It contains bison, lamb and venison for a blend of quality animal protein sources. For puppies, we recommend feeding up to two times the recommended adult feeding amount. As your puppy gets older, gradually decrease the amount to the adult amount. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: Are you not making the canned dog food anymore? I have been unable to find it in any stores around here. Asked by: lilly Hello, thanks for contacting us. We have not discontinued our canned pet foods. Unfortunately, they have not been able to meet customer demand, which has resulted in inventory shortages. We anticipate that we will have appropriate stock by early spring and will begin shipping product once our formulas are replenished. We apologize for the inconvenience. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: Our dog needs a low sodium diet, but he loves Taste of the Wild canned foods. Can you share how much sodium is in them? Asked by: Kari Hi, Kari. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: We have fed this formula in the dry form, twice a day to our dogs. We have realized that our 15yo pug will have to be switched to canned food, due to her having few teeth. She weighs 17lbs and is not very active. How much canned daily should she get? Asked by: carrie Hello, Carrie. We recommend adjusting the amount you feed based upon her activity levels and whether she maintains or gains weight. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: I have an older 11 year old Goldendoodle that is not eating his dry food as well anymore. Wish to try the canned food. How much should an inactive older dog eat a day with the canned food? Our feeding guide located on each can and product page is often a good place to start. CT weekdays. If you plan to mix both canned and dry food, be sure to monitor the calories to ensure you are not overfeeding. Additionally, your veterinarian can help you determine the best feeding plan for your Goldendoodle based on his needs. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: Is this ok to give to my 8 wk old puppy? All of our Taste of the Wild canned recipes are formulated for growth and maintenance, and are suitable for puppies. Please note the feeding guide, as puppies require higher amounts than adult dogs. In addition, our two dry puppy recipes would be great options for your puppy! Both our High Prairie Puppy recipe and our Pacific Stream Puppy recipe were developed with the needs of growing puppies in mind. The recipes contain specific nutrients like added DHA that aid in brain and eye development. Answered by: Taste of the Wild Date published: .If so, the German shepherd dog would certainly qualify. Multitalented and eager to work, German shepherds have held a wide array of jobs over the decades, from herders and guide dogs for the visually impaired to police dogs that apprehend criminals and detect illegal substances. No wonder the German shepherd has so many fans. A little history At the end of the 19th century, a German cavalry officer by the name of Captain Max von Stephanitz admired German herding dogs but noted they varied in appearance by region of the country. He made it his mission to create the ideal herding dog. His search for the best breeding stock took him to a dog show in , where he found a wolf-like canine with upright ears and yellow and black markings named Hektor Linksrhein. He promptly purchased the dog and changed its name to Horand von Grafrath. Throughout the years, the club worked to create breed standardization. The information in this blog has been developed with our veterinarian and is designed to help educate pet parents. If you have questions or concerns about your pet's health or nutrition, please talk with your veterinarian.