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We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Erie Pennsylvania and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Gold Pennsylvania and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! Life Span Did You Know? Although this breed is very popular, it is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. As long as they are well-socialized, Miniature Goldendoodles tend to make excellent family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they will alert you of strangers at the door, they tend to warm up quickly as they are more interested in making friends and receiving attention. Mini Goldendoodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their smaller size makes them a great fit for apartment living or for bigger homes with yards where they can run. As long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention, they can adapt well. These little dogs tend to do well in just about any climate. However, like any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their smaller size, you may need to gear up with some dog-friendly winter gear when temperatures start falling. Because this dog breed is loyal and people-oriented, they love to be in your company and do not like being left alone for long periods of time. This means they can be prone to developing separation anxiety if you do not work with them on it early on. Instead, make sure your new Mini Goldendoodle puppy has an active role in your life. If you do need to leave them alone for a bit, make sure they have some comforting toys or challenging puzzles to keep them from getting bored. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests and clearances that have been done. The Mini Goldendoodles is a highly intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly and is eager to please. They tend to be sensitive to tone of voice as well. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward, a Mini Goldendoodle will strive to be obedient and impress you and tends to excel at almost any task. These traits make the Mini Goldendoodle one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Daily brushing is recommended to remove tangles and prevent mats. Bathing is occasional and can often be relegated to the dog groomer that is recommended you visit every weeks. The groomer can help handle some of this during visits, but you will still need to do some maintenance at home between visits. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed help prevent ear infections. Daily brushing, plus cleanings at the vet as needed, is good dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Although the parents of this breed have a lot of energy, a Mini Goldendoodle tends to sit in a more moderate activity range. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are usually enough for them. But, they are also likely to match their energy level to yours, so be prepared for some bursts of energy as well as plenty of cuddling on the couch. Fully-grown Mini Goldendoodles usually stand inches tall at the shoulder. A Miniature Goldendoodle puppy can vary in size based on the generation of the dog. The result is generally a dog that will range from pounds. Looking at the size of the parents for an F1 or F1-B puppy can be a good indication of what size to expect in a fully-grown Miniature Goldendoodle. Mini Goldendoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Goldendoodle Article. You want to choose one carefully as their breeding practices will have an impact on the temperament and health of your Mini Goldendoodle puppy. Start by looking at online sources such as Google reviews, online forums, discussion groups and social media platforms to see what other people are saying about the breeder. Did they have a good experience buying from them? To take your research a bit further, you can ask Goldendoodle organizations and clubs based in your area about their opinion of the breeder you are considering to purchase from. Many Goldendoodle clubs also have their own lists of responsible breeders so they can give you additional recommendations for good Mini Goldendoodle breeders. You may also consider visiting some dog shows and events as they are a good opportunity to meet breeders in person and see their Mini Goldendoodles. You can also ask other dog owners that are showing their Mini Goldendoodles for breeder recommendations. Finally, ask potential breeders for references and consider contacting these people to ask about their experience with the breeder. Reputable breeders always prioritize the well-being of their dogs and strive for positive reviews. You should inquire about temperament and health of the Mini Goldendoodles these people purchased. Use this information to make an informed decision. All reputable Mini Goldendoodle breeders conduct them on their breeding dogs — whether they are breeding from purebred Golden Retrievers for F1 Goldendoodles and Poodles or from Goldendoodles for later generations like F2 Goldendoodles. A stipulates the health testing requirements for Goldendoodles and if the breeder is registered with G. A, you know that the breeding dogs have undergone full health testing. A heart clearance O. Ask to see documentation of these clearances before purchasing from a Mini Goldendoodle breeder. All responsible breeders should be willing to provide any health documentation. They should also be happy to answer any questions you have about their breeding program. However, if you have the opportunity to check out the facilities you should do it. Check that the kennels are clean, that they dogs and puppies have access to fresh water and also that there is not a build up of feces or urine. Comfortable living conditions: The breeder should keep their Mini Goldendoodles, Golden Retrievers and Poodles in comfortable living conditions. They should have large, comfortable kennels or dog beds and also have a decent amount of space to exercise and socialize with other dogs. Healthy breeding dogs and puppies: If you get the opportunity to meet the parents of the Mini Goldendoodle litter you are interested in, make sure they are well-tempered and also healthy. Sometimes the mother will be quite protective of her puppies so she may show signs of aggression. If you are purchasing a puppy online and getting it delivered, ask if the breeder would be happy to video call you or send videos of their Mini Goldendoodle puppies and breeding dogs to you. Ask About Socialization Mini Goldendoodle breeders should begin the socialization process before their puppies are sold. The puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of sounds, experiences, people and places so they can adjust to their new homes and adult life. Nevertheless, they should start exposing them to sounds like household appliances, provide mental stimulation with toys and games and also encourage playtime and interactions with their littermates and family. The most common ones are: Lack of registration: If a Mini Goldendoodle breeder cannot provide registration papers or other relevant documentation, it may be a sign that they are not operating a reputable breeding program. Overbreeding: Think twice about purchasing from a Mini Goldendoodle breeder who always has puppies available or offers an excessive amount of dog breeds. This may suggest that the breeder is overly focused on profit instead of the health and wellbeing of their puppies. Lack of health checks: A reputable Mini Goldendoodle breeder will conduct health clearances on their breeding dogs to ensure they are free of genetic health issues that could be passed on. If a breeder cannot provide documentation of these health checks, it may be a sign that they are not prioritizing health. Further Reading.

Pros Unique Health Support Why we choose this as the best food for the German Shepherd puppy is because of its exceptional health support. Many puppies find it challenging to digest foods during the first couple of days. It has a blend of probiotics and enzymes that make it easy for your puppy to digest. These are obtained from the whole grains and lean meat of lamb instead of chicken fat. Chicken fat is not unhealthy per se, but lamb is way more nutritious. Cons Considering how big or quickly your German Shepherd puppy grows, a single bag of food may run out rather fast. If you have a small budget, this could pose a challenge given the high price of the Holistic Select Puppy Health Food. A majority of people are beginning to embrace a holistic lifestyle and this includes the food they eat. Precise believes that dogs should not be left behind in this movement. Our rating We rated this dog food product 4. This blend of features guarantees a smooth digestion for your pet. Boosts the Immune System Each bag of Precise has a wealth of fruit and vegetables such as peas and blueberries. This way, your German Shepherd has all the critical vitamins and minerals to stave off diseases. Cons Sadly, the Precise Holistic Complete is not sold in some local stores. As such, you should manage your inventory well and place new orders before your current bag runs out. While it is a relatively new recipe in the market, it has already received raving reviews from pet owners. Our rating Our rating for Purina dog food is 4. Fortunately, Purina canned dog food is totally grain-free. Instead, it is loaded with high-quality protein, which your pet needs to maintain his healthy muscles. Crafted by In-House Nutritionists Purina offers a variety of recipe and flavors, all of which contain no preservatives or artificial additives. Purina has in-house nutritionists, who run each formula through a test panel of animals before launching the product. Cons Some clients have reported that their older dogs ended up having loose stool. To combat this, try mixing the Purina Beyond Grain-Free with a dry food. Royal Canin is a far cry from the conventional dog food companies, which only aim at making extra profits. Instead, this firm competes on formulas and excellent taste. Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects lots of large breed dogs. The Royal Canin Giant Junior is designed to combat this. Promotes Healthy Aging Another perk of relying on this dog food is the fact that it has a complex combination of antioxidants and vitamins C and E. Along with taurine, these nutrients not only help your dog to age healthily but also boost its immune system. A Healthy Heart Thanks to the added L-carnitine, your dog will never suffer from heart problems. This compound is also excellent for his nervous system. Cons Compared to other dog foods in our review, the Royal Canin is pricey. Check out a complete review of Royal Canin from Chewy. It has the perfect ingredients for large dog breeds like the German Shepherd, particularly for those with food allergies. Our rating We gave the Wilderness Blue Buffalo dog food a rating of 4. This combination can keep your German Shepherd lively and active all day long. Also, we like that it comes in an array of flavors. These are meaty bits, which contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Ideally, LifeSource Bits are cold pressed; hence, the integrity of the ingredients is preserved. The nutrients boost longevity and the joints. Helps to combat food allergies Every bag of the Wilderness Blue Buffalo has organically whole grains, veggies, and fruit. These products contain nutrients, useful in treating food allergies and digestive problems. Conclusion German Shepherds make cool pets—ask any owner. Subsequently, the least we humans can do is to hook them up with nutrient-rich and delicious dog foods. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Key Points German shepherd nutrition is essential in keeping your dog's health up. Most quality dog foods are pricier, but you're paying for good ingredients and meals catered to your dog's needs. Look for high-protein dog food for your German shepherd but look out for sensitivities like chicken in your dog. Better watch out for those zoomies! Feeding your German shepherd a high-quality diet will get them up and moving. You might want to ensure you have ample space ready for them to burn off all that energy. With so many brands on the market, where do you even start? The best dog food for your pup might not be the best for someone else's, which is perfectly okay. Each dog has unique needs, so this list has more than one brand for you to consider. Always ensure your dog is healthy before switching foods, and don't switch out the food all at once. Take time to change your dog's diet, as going too quickly leads to digestive upset. Inside each bag are ingredients supporting the health of your dog's digestive tract, bones, joints, skin, and coat. Vets and nutritionists created the formula to cater to German shepherds' needs. The essential fatty acids from the fish oil to the unique dried beet pulp benefit your dog's health. Your dog meets their nutritional needs with this dog food and added benefits that help support health overall. Royal Canin knows that chewing is necessary, unlike other dog kibbles that are too small for your dog's mouth. Finding a bigger kibble size is necessary if your shepherd inhales other brands. Not only does Royal Canin ensure your dog has to slow down, but the bigger-sized kibble means your dog's teeth also get clean. The major downside to this brand is the price. The smallest size available is the pound bag. Yes, the formula keeps your dog's needs in mind, but there is always the chance your dog won't like the kibble. Photo source: Amazon. When the company started in , the promise to feed pets as a family member began. The promise to never use corn, wheat, soy, or poultry by-products remains the same 20 years later. German shepherds need a high-protein diet to keep active. That is where Blue Buffalo Wilderness comes in — it contains more meat that dogs love while adding whole grains for complete nourishment. Blue Buffalo contains exclusive LifeSource bits to enhance your dog's food, perfect for a large breed diet. These bits are darker kibble containing plenty of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that veterinarians and animal nutritionists select to keep your pet healthy. These bits are cold-formed to minimize heat exposure that degrades the potency of the nutritional value. The unique proteins that Blue Buffalo uses also have a downside: Many dogs are sensitive to these ingredients. Before switching, consult your vet about what is best for your dog. Chicken bothers many dogs with sensitive stomachs , so consider that before buying. This gourmet brand holds fresh and dehydrated animal protein, fruits, vegetables, and legumes. Each recipe of Origen Original is grain free and emulates what a dog would eat in the wild. Each bag contains 36 percent of proteins, 41 percent fats, and 23 percent carbs. Depending on the line you buy, these ratios will be different. Orihen has nine different varieties of dog food that all cater to different needs. Large breeds benefit from the original as it has the highest protein count for high-energy dogs. No matter the line, they are all grain free. Orijen understands that your German shepherd needs the energy to move but also understands that their brand might not suit every dog's needs. Orijen is honest in stating that dogs that need specialty diets don't benefit from their formula. Another risk is that the brand uses eggs, which many dogs are sensitive to. Like many brands, the price is higher than average. The payoff is that you know your dog is getting everything they need with fewer supplements than other brands. It's ideal for families with dogs of different breeds who still want to give their pets high-quality food. The Canidae Multi-Protein Formula fits the bill for pup owners who want food that benefits active dogs, from puppies to seniors. With fortified vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, probiotics, and amino acids, this dog food helps promote a healthy immune and digestive system. Whole foods are the priority, so inside each bag are rice, potatoes, oatmeal, and barley for healthy carbohydrate sources and fiber. Just like the brands before, one ingredient causes pet parents to pause. Canidae uses tomato pomace, which many people feel is a filler. The most likely reason for having tomato pomace is for an additional source of fiber. Hill's Science Diet is made in Topeka, Kansas, and the company ensures that only high-quality ingredients make up the brand's food. Hill's has a Global Pet Nutrition Center that tests and studies how their food affects dogs and how to improve their quality. Hill's Science Diet suits the large breed diet and smaller breeds for multidog households. Considering the diet is excellent for all dogs, it's suitable for your dogs from puppyhood to senior status. The adult, homemade dog food recipes for large dogs are explicitly formulated for those with high energy needs. Real meat is the first ingredient used in Hill's dog food. Your dog gets their needed protein, but chicken is the most common meat. If your dog has chicken sensitivity, Hill's is not the food to pick for your household. The biggest downside to Hill's Science Diet is many of the recipes include ingredients such as yellow peas, pea fiber, and soybean meal. Peas and legumes may cause heart disease in dogs, but more research is needed to determine the significance of the link. One of the key features in keeping this year-old brand alive is how they choose ingredients. They don't use ingredients that aren't ethically or sustainably sourced. Real meat is at the top of the ingredient list, but like many brands, chicken is the most common. Some other formulations include lamb and salmon instead of chicken to cater to sensitive stomachs. Nutro Ultra Large Breed formula is on the pricy side, but the price allows for quality ingredients. Overall, the brand is one of the best dog food brands for large breeds. The list above offers the top six brands that cater to your German shepherd's needs. If kibble doesn't suit your needs, making your own homemade dog food recipes is an option. Vets agree that the food you feed your dog should be high in protein and have as few fillers as possible. You want the healthiest ingredients, so avoid things like soy meal, corn, and wheat. If you have more questions about the right dog food for your shepherd, take a look at BreedExpert for more information! Was this article helpful? This is a question that many German Shepherd owners ask, as they want to make sure their beloved furry friend is getting all the nutrients they need. The good news is that there are plenty of healthy dog food options out there for German Shepherds. You should eat foods that include high-quality animal-based protein sources like lamb, beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes. In addition, the meal should be plentiful in fats, vitamins, and minerals. Are eggs good for German Shepherds? Yes, eggs are a great source of protein for German Shepherds. In fact, they are one of the healthiest foods you can feed your dog. Eggs are packed with nutrients that are essential for a German Shepherd's diet, including vitamins A, D, and E. They also contain omega-three fatty acids, which are important for a dog's coat and skin health. What is the best food for German Shepherds with allergies? If your German Shepherd has allergies, it's important to find a hypoallergenic best dog food for German Shepherds that will not trigger their symptoms. There are many brands of hypoallergenic dog food on the market that use alternative protein sources, such as duck or venison. These foods are often grain-free as well, which is ideal for German Shepherds with allergies. What is the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs? If your German Shepherd has a sensitive stomach, you'll want to find a dog food that is easy on their digestive system. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These foods often have limited ingredient lists and use easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or potato. What is the best food for German Shepherds with joint problems? If your German Shepherd has joint problems, you'll want to find a dog food that is rich in omega-three fatty acids. These essential nutrients help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with joint problems. These foods often contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to help relieve joint pain. Now let's chat in more detail about the best dog foods for your furry friend. It is made with all natural ingredients and has no fillers or preservatives. The kibble is also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for dogs' skin and coat health. The addition of zinc proteinate and other chelated minerals to the formula is a plus, as it leads to better absorption and nutrition. We also note the inclusion of various probiotics for better digestion and salmon oil, which is beneficial to both skin and coat. Highly suggested! All of their recipes are made with whole ingredients and cooked in small batches. The meals are portioned according to your dog's weight and activity level. Wilderness is a grain-free and protein-rich product with over a dozen options and recipes, which makes it ideal for people who want to rotate their diets. It's reasonably priced, and it gets high marks from consumers. Probiotics, high-quality fiber, and digestive enzymes are included in this formula to aid your dog's digestive health. These components create mouth-watering, healthy food that will sustain your canine companion throughout the day. The foods in this recipe include multiple probiotics for improved digestion, chelated minerals for maximized absorption, and nutrient-dense food. It's inexpensive to buy as well as simple to suggest. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food Image courtesy Eagle Pack The majority of the animal protein in Adult takes the form of fresh chicken and pork meal, as confirmed by the nutritional label. The all-time classic, fully grain-inclusive design that is free of legume concentrates. Antioxidant preservatives are used in a safe and natural manner. There's no BHT or ethoxyquin. It has high animal protein levels, as well as vitamins and minerals that have been boosted through the use of freeze-dried raw pieces. It's designed to unleash your dog's potential to thrive and put the advantages of raw nutrition into every bowl, using cage-free duck as the first ingredient for powerful, lean muscles. It also contains a probiotic boost for digestive health, greater amounts of omegas for healthy skin and coat, and more antioxidants for immune health—all from the highest-quality ingredients from all over the world. This high-protein, low-carb diet is designed for sporting dogs and plush animals with rigorous exercise requirements. It's also perfect for growing pups and pregnant or nursing females. This formula has DHA to support cognitive development, as well as calcium for strong bones and teeth. Iams ProActive Health also has 22 essential vitamins and minerals to keep your puppy healthy and strong. It's nice to discover a Southwest Canyon recipe that includes natural preservatives, which implies the food does not contain any BHA, BHT, or other harmful chemicals. A major brand and a healthy all-age option for any German Shepherd. Champion Petfoods, the well-known maker of Orijen, has long promoted a meat-based "biologically appropriate" diet. This is a tried and true design that makes this particular dish an excellent choice for developing Shepherd pups. This natural dry food is developed to give complete-body nutritional support for puppies of all sizes. It's made with high-quality proteins and whole grains, all of which are complemented by omega fatty acids—such as DHA—necessary vitamins, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics. This balanced, nutritious dry dog food is intended to promote teeth and bone strength, healthy brain growth, general health, energy and vitality, optimal nutrient absorption, and healthy muscle development. It's free of GMOs, by-products from processing animals into pet food ingredients meat meal , fillers, or artificial preservatives to ensure that your dog gets the healthiest food possible. This is a tried-and-true approach that has been developed and studied for decades. It includes controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios, making it ideal for German Shepherd puppies. This large-breed dry food is made with high-quality proteins and whole grains. It's free of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives. This recipe is designed to support the health of large breed puppies with an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. It also includes DHA from fish oil for healthy brain development. This recipe includes DHA for brain development, calcium and phosphorus for bone growth, and antioxidants to support the immune system. It's also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. You can feed your dog either dry or wet food, and he may sample two distinct flavor profiles: rice and oatmeal for salmon. Because it contains no allergens like wheat, corn, or soy, there's less of a chance that your dog will suffer an upset stomach. It also includes omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which help to promote skin, coat, and joint health. Image courtesy Blue Buffalo If you're searching for high-quality, all-natural wet dog food, Blue Buffalo Wilderness is a wonderful alternative. This dog food is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for an entourage diet. It's made with real beef and chicken, can be served as a delicious treat, or blended into your dog's regular dry food. The Blue Buffalo puppy food contains no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives; making it a healthy choice for your dog. All dishes are prepared in collaboration with veterinarians and come in a variety of delicious flavors, including beef, lamb, and turkey. All of the meats are imported from the United States, although only lamb comes from Australia. It's also gluten-free, so if you're allergic to grains, you'll be safe. There is a large selection of carbohydrates, which are mostly in the form of potatoes, and there are numerous healthy vegetables and superfoods including lentils, peas, salmon oil, and flaxseed. It's made with real meat, vegetables, and fruit. This recipe is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's also high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It's made with real beef, vegetables, and fruit. It also contains sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, and flaxseed. This formula provides your German Shepherd puppy with the high protein diet they need for proper development and growth. Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular brands among dog food reviewers. It's included as our last on this list but has ranked high among some of the best dog foods for German Shepherds because it's high in protein and free of grains. What foods are German Shepherds allergic to? German Shepherds are known to be allergic to a variety of things, including wheat, corn, soy, and even some meats. If you're not sure what your German Shepherd is allergic to, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to recommend the best food for your dog based on their specific allergies. If your German Shepherd is having any sort of adverse reaction to their food, such as scratching, biting, or licking themselves excessively, then they may be allergic to something in their food. Consult with your veterinarian if you're not sure what's causing the reaction. What is the best dog food for German Shephard puppies? Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so it's important to find a food that's specifically designed for puppies. Look for a food that has high levels of protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Puppies also need more calories than adult dogs, so make sure the food you choose has a high calorie content. As your puppy grows, they will need less calories and protein, so you'll need to switch to a food that's designed for adult dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your German Shepherd puppy. What is the best food for an adult German Shepherd? The best food for an adult German Shepherd is a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed of dog is known for its high energy levels and need for exercise, so a food that can help them maintain their energy levels is important. A diet that is too low in calories can cause your German Shepherd to become overweight or obese, which can lead to health problems. When choosing a food for your German Shepherd, it is important to read the label carefully and choose a food that is right for their age, weight, and activity level. Can a German Shepherd drink milk? Yes, German Shepherds can drink milk. Milk is a good source of calcium and other nutrients that are important for this breed of dog. However, it is important to choose a low-fat or skim milk to avoid adding unnecessary calories to their diet. What is the best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy? The best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy is to start them on a diet that is high in protein and fat. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, so it is important to choose a food that will give them the nutrition they need without making them overweight. As your German Shepherd puppy grows, you can slowly transition them to an adult dog food. It is important to make sure that they are getting the right amount of calories and nutrients for their age, weight, and activity level. What are some common health problems German Shepherds face? Some common health problems German Shepherds face include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. This breed of dog is also susceptible to obesity, so it is important to choose a food that will help them maintain a healthy weight. German Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, so a food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is important for this breed of dog. What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd? The life expectancy of a German Shepherd is between nine and thirteen years. This breed of dog is known for being a healthy and hardy breed, but there are some health problems that can shorten their lifespan. It is important to feed your German Shepherd a diet that will help them maintain their health and keep them at a healthy weight to help ensure a long and happy life. Is it OK to put a raw egg in dog food? The answer is complicated. While some experts believe that raw eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, others believe that they can be dangerous. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. If you decide to feed your dog raw eggs, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the eggs are fresh. Second, only feed your dog eggs that have been properly refrigerated. Finally, don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs. If you're still not sure whether or not to feed your dog raw eggs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you make the best decision for your pet. What are the benefits of raw eggs for dogs? There are a few potential benefits of feeding raw eggs to dogs. Some people believe that raw eggs can help increase a dog's energy levels, improve their coat, and even help with joint pain. While there is some anecdotal evidence to support these claims, there is no scientific evidence that raw eggs offer any health benefits for dogs. Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Dog Food Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet's health and well-being. With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your furry friend. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision, we have established a set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and the specific nutritional needs of dogs. Ingredients Quality: High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish, to support your dog's muscle development and overall health. Whole Grains and Vegetables: Whole grains and vegetables should be included to provide essential carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Absence of Fillers and Artificial Additives: No Fillers: The best dog food should not contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which offer limited nutritional value and may cause allergies. No Artificial Additives: It should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can harm your dog's health over time. Meat Meal vs. Whole Meat: Preference for Whole Meat: Whole meat sources are preferred over meat meals or by-products, as they are less processed and retain more nutritional value. Digestibility and Allergen Consideration: Hypoallergenic Options: For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens like poultry or grains should be available. High Digestibility: The dog food should be highly digestible to ensure your pet absorbs the maximum nutrients from each meal. Life Stage Appropriateness: Age and Size-Specific Formulations: The best dog food should offer formulations tailored to your dog's life stage puppy, adult, senior and size small, medium, large. Transparency and Sourcing: Transparent Labeling: Brands should provide transparent information about ingredient sourcing and processing methods. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: A commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients reflects a brand's responsibility toward animal welfare and the environment. Health Benefits and Special Considerations: Support for Special Health Needs: The best dog food may offer formulations to address specific health concerns, such as joint health, dental care, or weight management. Customer Feedback and Reviews: Positive User Experiences: Customer feedback and reviews are valuable indicators of a product's performance, safety, and palatability. Price and Value: Affordability: The cost of the dog food should be reasonable and commensurate with its quality and ingredients, offering good value for pet owners. Recall History and Safety: Safety Record: Brands with a history of recalls or safety issues should be viewed with caution, as the safety of your pet is paramount. But with our list of the 25 best dog foods for German Shepherds in , you can rest assured that you're giving your furry friend the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. When choosing dog food, consider factors such as your dog's age, size, activity level, any allergies or sensitivities, and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. What is the difference between dry and wet dog food? Dry dog food kibble is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Wet dog food contains more moisture and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Some owners choose to feed a combination for variety. Is homemade dog food a good option? Homemade dog food can be an option but requires careful research and balance to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. How can I tell if a dog food is of high quality? Look for high-quality protein sources, whole grains and vegetables, minimal fillers and additives, and adherence to AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Checking customer reviews and consulting experts can also help. Should I choose a dog food based on my dog's breed? While some breed-specific formulas exist, it's more important to consider your dog's individual needs, age, and size when selecting dog food. What should I do if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities? If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consult your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods. Is grain-free dog food a better choice? Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily better. While some dogs may benefit from grain-free options, it's essential to ensure the food still provides balanced nutrition, as some grain-free diets have been associated with certain health issues. How often should I feed my dog, and in what portion sizes? Feeding frequency and portion sizes depend on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent meals. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust based on your dog's needs. Can I mix different brands or types of dog food? Mixing different brands or types of dog food can be done, but it should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best way to transition your dog to a new diet. Should I be concerned about recalls when choosing dog food? Yes, it's important to stay informed about recalls. Check the FDA and manufacturer websites regularly for recall information. Brands with a history of recalls may be worth avoiding. What is the role of my veterinarian in selecting dog food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food based on your pet's specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. How can I ensure my dog stays hydrated when feeding dry dog food? Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Wetting the dry food or incorporating wet food into the diet can also increase moisture intake. Can I give my dog human food as part of their diet? While some human foods are safe for dogs, it's essential to know which ones are and to avoid potentially toxic foods. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding human food to your dog's diet. Remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and open communication about your dog's diet are key to ensuring their health and well-being. Related Content.

He is fawn Merle. He is looking for his furever homes. Pictures don't do him justice! Shots and deworming up to date. Make sure to do research on this breed and how it might fit your lifestyle. View Detail Solid English Bulldog Puppies ready Beautiful English bulldogs for sale have been brought up round children and cared very well by the mother, all pups have been weaned into raw, have been wormed and fleas up to date, looking for a loving home. She has been health cleared and has a very calm and lovable temper. She has all of her vaccinations up to date including deworming and Parvo. She is also fully registered with the AKC. Looking for her forever home. He has all of his vaccinations up to date including deworming and Parvo. He comes from a litter of 6 beautiful sisters and adjusts well with other pups or larger dogs. He is potty pad trained and ready for his new forever home. Looking for loving home for English Bulldog puppy. It is heartbreaking that we have to give our boy a new home. Reason being partner has allergies. He is akc registration with all papers. NBB is a lilac tri. I would prefer him to go to a home with someone who has a background in bulldogs as they are a high maintenance bread. NBB loves walking and going to new places. NBB is pretty good at going to the toilet outside but sometimes still has a few accidents. We only have NBB we are not the breeders. View Detail 3 British bulldog pups 2 girls 1 boy 3 British bulldog pups 2 girls 1 boy full pedigree vet check wormed chiped injection we have both parents raised in are family home View Detail New English bulldog puppies. New English bulldog puppies. Each puppy comes fully registered, updated vaccinations, and dewormed. Follow us on all social media platforms! He is an inside dog and kennel trained. He gets along well with our 1 year old and 5 year old. He loves to play and sleep. Very friendly and happy puppy. These pups are large boned, straight backed black and tan puppies. They have been bred for health and temperament. They are very outgoing,friendly, inquisitive and well socialised. These puppies have been bred on our working farm in the xxxxxxxxxxx. We have answers. The difference is that a purebred dog has a documented pedigree, and it is bred to meet very specific standards. A mixed breed dog has an ancestry involving different breeds. There is nothing wrong with mixed breed dogs, but many people prefer purebreds like French Bulldog puppies for sale Sacramento. What is the French Bulldog like? Friendly, cute, and tiny, Frenchies are hugely popular. They are actually descended from English Bulldogs, but they are smaller. They have lovely personalities and are adorable pets. French Bulldog puppies for sale in Sacramento also make great family dogs because they are friendly and get on well with kids. What makes French Bulldogs so expensive? French Bulldogs cannot reproduce naturally due to their narrow hips, so French Bulldog breeders Sacramento must use artificial insemination and the pups are also delivered by C-section. This means extra skills are required by French Bulldog breeders in Sacramento, and this is reflected in the higher prices. How should I use Uptown? We put the fun back into finding French Bulldogs for sale in Sacramento. Just search for a French Bulldog Sacramento, find a litter, and connect with the breeder. You can then start making arrangements to pick up your pup, and in no time at all you could find yourself meeting your dream Frenchie puppy! Am I going to find the cheapest French Bulldogs puppies here? We screen them all very carefully to ensure they have high standards, and they provide a boutique service. Why should I not just choose a shelter dog instead? Getting your dog from a reputable shelter could be a great option. However, shelters are not the right choice for everyone. If you want a purebred dog or you want to know its full health history, then finding a Sacramento French Bulldog for sale in the Uptown network might make more sense than using a shelter. How can I be sure that my Frenchie puppy will be in good health? All the companies and breeders in the Uptown Network provide full health checks. But you should still take your pup to the vet to verify its health when it arrives. Can I pick up my new puppy in person? If you find a French Bulldog for sale in Sacramento, you should make arrangements with the breeder to find out how to pick up your puppy. If you cannot find Sacramento French Bulldogs for sale, and you find a puppy much further away, the breeder can make travel arrangements so you can pick up your dog at your nearest major airport instead. If I have kids, will my Frenchie be OK around them? They love playing and having fun, after all! But make sure they are supervised properly, especially around young kids, in the same way that you would with any dog. What are the exercise requirements for French Bulldogs? A short walk and a bit of playtime is usually enough to keep them in good health. E-mail: frenchpuppyforsale gmail. Nowadays, most people interested in a pure bred puppy want to know where that puppy comes from. French bulldog breeders can provide you with detailed information that will help you determine whether or not they are the best resource for you to buy your puppy. French Bulldog Breeders for Sacramento and Nearby We are a well-reputed Sacramento and local area dog breeder specialized in English and French bulldogs and we regularly have French bulldogs for sale. We are known for our loving environment, our excellent customer service, and for matching families with beautiful, healthy puppies who will make a great addition to a family. Are you interested in learning more about our French bulldog puppies for sale? In Sacramento, LA, and throughout the Orange County and surrounding area we are known for our beautiful puppies that are raised in a loving home environment. We start potty training and are happy to provide detailed information about our puppies, and their parents. Your puppy can be chosen from available non-reserved dogs and you can get updates on their progress. We offer open houses for those who are interested in learning more and seeing our kennels in person. Learn More About Us or Reserve a French Bulldog Puppy Contact us to ask questions, to check availability on specific colors of English and French bulldogs, or to arrange to make a deposit. We can even help potential customers arrange financing. We are very well-respected in the French bulldog community in and near Sacramento and we would be happy to talk to you about this great family dog and how a new puppy might be just a few months away from becoming a valued part of your family.

We do show our Bulldogs and conformation is the key. So every breeding is carefully thought out. We are always looking for that special show dog but we also are very mindful of health and temperament. We breed to our bulldog Champion males and males that we are showing for their Championships, occasionally we breed to Champion males that other breeders have that we think will compliment our females and improve our line. While doing these things we believe it also adds to the quality of our bulldog puppies that become loved companions to the wonderful homes that are strictly interested in spoiling one of these awesome Bulldogs. English Bulldogs are wonderful with children and adults alike. Intelligent, loving and gentle, the English Bulldog will steal your heart away, especially the English Bulldog puppies. With their distinctive mugs English Bulldogs have a look all their own that will have you hooked before you realize it, and those adorable bulldog puppy mugs will capture your heart. Check out our Puppies Page for pictures of our newest arrivals, and come back often as we post new puppy pictures often. If you are looking for a loving companion for yourself or maybe a puppy for your children, the English Bulldog is a great addition to any home. There is no better place to find Bulldog puppies for sale. Please note: if you want to purchase a quality Country Bulls English Bulldog from our quality Bulldog stud, there is only one place on the internet. If you have any questions, all you have to do is pick up the phone. We proudly offer champion English bulldog puppies for sale in St. Hands-on and selective, we ensure that all of our bloodlines are documented champion bulldogs with detailed family histories and a health guarantee. About English Bulldogs Known for being stout, demure, and dignified, English bulldogs are one of the best and most desirable breeds in the world. Despite their sour-mug expression, they are an amiable and sensitive breed. They are also tenacious and sweet-tempered, which allows them to respond well to patient and persistent training. This makes them excellent show champions, and of course, companions. About Our English Bulldog Puppies We live and breathe English bulldogs and are committed to the preservation of the true purebred dog, striving to breed to the standard that was established in .We give our hearts and souls to our dogs, giving each puppy the love and care they need to become happy and healthy dogs. Our thorough process is why we have been producing champions for the past 20 years. While our main focus in breeding English bulldogs is to find the next competitive show prospect, our bulldogs also make wonderful family pets that are sure to be well-loved members of your family. To learn more about our available champion English bulldog puppies , call Show Me Bulldogs at today. Connect With Us.

Sometimes, they can develop issues with their tails, either from genetically predisposed issues or from injury. Unfortunately, when it comes to purebred dogs like German Shepherds, there are genetically predisposed illnesses that you may have to deal with as their owner. Getting your German Shepherd from a reputable breeder is the best course of action, but even then, your GSD will still not be entirely immune from genetic issues or injuries. Tail problems are common issues in large dogs like German Shepherds. In this article, we look at three that you should know about. Anal Furunculosis Anal furunculosis is a hereditary condition in German Shepherds. The condition can be painful and uncomfortable for your pooch and is difficult to treat. It can become fairly severe if infection takes hold. The condition can be brought on by several different causes but has mostly been observed after immersion in cold water. The condition is not usually serious and can be treated at home with anti-inflammatories and rest, and your dog should fully recover after a few da Image Credit: cvop, Pixabay 3. Skin infections are easily spotted because there will typically be hair loss, redness, and itching. Topical or internal antibiotics prescribed by a vet are usually the best course of action. But the habit can become obsessive, at which point, you may have a problem. There are many causes for this habit, most of which are behavioral and thus can be stopped with proper training. Lack of exercise, insufficient space, stress, and anxiety may all be possible causes. Unfortunately, there are a few GSD owners who want their dogs to have the straight, powerful-looking tail of the GSD breed standard and opt for surgery, but this will not fix the issue and will cost a great deal of money in the process. Excessive Tail Wagging German Shepherds are known for wagging their tails all the time, and as such, they are fairly prone to tail-wagging-related injuries. This enthusiasm can cause them to knock their tails into things and cause bruises, cuts, or pulled muscles. Excessive tail wagging can be a symptom of stress or anxiety, but it is usually just due to a happy, excited pooch! See also:. Unlike some breeds, they carry it low naturally, and an agitated, swishing tail is not ideal. If it curls under the dog, instead of being held out naturally straight from the body, the dog may be anxious and nervous. Long-coated Shepherds will have a fluffy plume, whereas short-coated dogs will have a sleeker tail. They will be between 18 and 36 months old before you can truly judge their tail type. While the dog is still developing, it can have a longer or shorter tail. Here are some common ones to look out for. High tails: usually a sign of alertness and excitement Hanging tails: troubled or submissive feelings Straighter than normal: exploring, but a little cautious Semi-raised and slowly wagging: usually happy Low and slow wagging: usually means unhappiness or concern Raised and fast wagging: Excitement Low and slow wagging: lack of enthusiasm, but responsive Very broad wagging: enthusiastic Short, curtailed wagging: can be a sign of anxiety Neutral: the dog is simply relaxed, alert, and happy Wiggly and loose: a happy puppy! It can be a sign of a mixed breed dog or a dog with a gene fault at the tail. Can Tails Get Sore? As an expressive part of the dog, tails can get sore or injured. However, these are some more severe problems to watch out for: Anal Furunculosis: This is a fancy term for an inflammatory skin disease around the tail and bum. Skin Infections: Like the rest of the body, the skin here can get infected. Because the skin is tight over the tailbone, it can be tough to treat too. Noted issues include chewing, allergy scratching, and itching. Dog bites can get infected too. Always treat skin issues at the tail seriously. The tail swells and is painful, it comes on about a day after exposure to freezing surfaces. Why do Dogs Chase Their Tails? Is It Bad? Pups and adult dogs alike may chase their tails simply for fun. But sometimes, it can turn into obsessive behavior. Luckily, training can help, especially with distraction and refocusing on toys or activities. What are the bad reasons for tail chasing? Small Spaces: The German Shepherd is a big dog, so narrow spaces can upset them. Stimulation: If your dog is under-exercised and stimulated, they can obsessively tail chase from boredom. Genetics: They may have the habit in their blood, or have learned it from parents. Stress: Anxiety can cause very dangerous tail chasing that often ends in injury, and you need to get to the root cause of the issue. It can cue you into their moods, and help you to avoid issues before they start. Likewise, knowing more about the breed standard for their expressive tail can help you identify potential issues with your dog and understand more about what makes them tick—or should we say, wag! As such, they have to tell you what they feel and experience through body language, including positioning and wagging their tail. Here are 13 German Shepherd tail positions and what they mean: Tail raised high — alert and excited. Tail hanging down — troubled and submissive. Tail straight out — exploring and undecided. Tail low and wagging left — concerned or unhappy. Tail semi-raised and wagging right — happy. Tail raised and wagging fast — excited. Tail low and wagging slowly — lack of enthusiasm. Tail wagging with up and down broad strokes — very happy. Tail wagging in half-mast short strokes — anxious. Tail carried in a neutral position — relaxed. Tail loose and wiggly — happy. Tail held high and stiff — aroused and confident. Tail tucked between the legs — afraid. This article will explore these different tail positions in more detail so you can get to know your dog a little better. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. The German Shepherd is quite creative at using its tail to communicate. It may be in a neutral, straight out, high, or half-mast position to convey arousal, relaxation, or anxiousness and can vary in meaning when accompanied by a fast or slow wag. A raised tail often comes with erect ears , which could be a sign that: The dog is ready to run and attack. The dog may make a move to face whatever is calling their attention. The dog may make a display of dominance. This is especially true if the raised tail is accompanied by very fast tail wagging, which appears to be vibrating. Stay alert when your German Shepherd has its tail raised high and vibrating as you may need to leash or crate them. If a slight wiggle or wag is added, your dog communicates appeasement. The dog could be meeting someone new — a person or dog — and is unsure what action to take. Your GSD could also be hearing noises whose meaning and origin they have yet to figure out. So when you see your German Shepherd with its tail straight out, just give it time to figure things out. I wanna chase the deer! She has seen some deer in the field, and her prey drive has kicked in! Research has shown that dogs tend to wag their tails to the right when happy, and the left side of the brain directs this tail movement. In fact, the mentioned research found that dogs wagged their tails to the right at the sight of their owner. It could be the joy of seeing you home again after work or of seeing you present his favorite food or toy, or when you arrive at a new place, and the excitement just takes over. However, your German Shepherd can show a fast wagging tail when anxious and ready for action in tense situations. The German Shepherd is meeting a strange dog and is unsure what role to take with the new conspecific. In either case, you should remove your German Shepherd from the uncomfortable situation. In this case, your German Shepherd will also accompany the tail wagging with other body signs of happiness like: A relaxed shaking of the entire body. A grin on its face. A soft open mouth. Your dog could also be showing a lack of enthusiasm and insecurity. If the half-mast short strokes are swift, your dog could simply be greeting and feeling tentative or hesitant about a move. Check out Willow in the above photo. Her tail is relaxed in its neutral position as she is undoubtedly chilled as she loves being in the woods. If the dog is relaxed and feeling extra happy, they may add a little wag to their loose tail. They may accentuate that with a side-to-side wag or in circular motion wags. Your German Shepherd will also have a loose and wiggly tail when the environment is relaxed, and if a gaze towards you accompanies that, they most likely want to play. Pay particular attention to your German Shepherd if it has a high and stiff tail combined with raised hackles , a wrinkled nose, and an open mouth with visible teeth. Together, these signs could be a warning to other dogs or strangers to back off. Your German Shepherd may be about to get aggressive. For example, your dog could be in pain or encountering someone or something that instills fear. The tail should be set smoothly into the croup or the rear end where the pelvis bone is and where the tail attaches to the rump. The tail is raised when in motion, and the saber-curve is emphasized, but not beyond a vertical line. That makes it easy for you to see the tail when you want to decipher the message that your German Shepherd is communicating with its tail position. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Just look at their tails! So, keep an eye out for tails that are just right! The natural tail is well-muscled and has a thick base croup. It typically hangs down when the dog is relaxed. This type of GSD tail is set high and carried in a slight curve that is pointed upward, but does not go over the back like in Huskies. You see, a natural tail is an important feature of this dog breed and is highly valued by breeders and dog show judges. We can see this type of tail in both German Shepherds and Dutch Shepherds. Your German Shepherd may be long-haired if he inherits this type of tail! A bushy tail is not typically associated with any health issues. Additionally, it is not considered a fault or disqualifying trait in dog shows! It can be passed down from mom and dad or just randomly pop up during puppyhood. This type of tail is commonly seen in many German Shepherd mixes. With all that in mind, puppies with sickle tails are not allowed to participate in dog shows as they are not purebred dogs. Straight Tail A straight tail in German Shepherds is a tail that is not as thick as a natural tail and does not curve at the end — it is completely straight. Well, it is not an unhealthy tail, it just indicates that there may be other breeds in the mix. For example, a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix is most likely to inherit a straight tail that is on the thinner side. The straight tail is set high, but it does not curve as a natural tail does. When your dog is excited or alert, he holds his tail straight out and you may notice a slight curve at the tail end. Docked Tail Ever heard of a German Shepherd with a docked tail? Neither have I! Even though your GSD was bred to be a working dog, tail docking is a no-no. This procedure deviates from the official breed standards and it is banned in some states. While GSD tail docking is not as common as Doberman tail docking , some breeders actually do this. And trust me, those breeders are not reliable nor reputable. However, a docked tail in adult dogs may indicate that they have been through tail injuries or infections. It is not unusual to see German Shepherds with completely curly tails, which can be caused by a genetic mutation, which can be a sign that the GSD is a hybrid dog. German Shepherd Tail Positions There are plenty of tail positions that can mean a lot and we may not understand them all. Wagging Tail A wagging tail in a German Shepherd can indicate that the dog is happy and friendly. Tail wagging can also be a sign of GSD anxiety or aggression, depending on the speed and direction of the wag. A stiff tail can be tricky as it can show dominance, signs of fear or anxiety, and confidence. Tucked Tail A tucked tail can be a sign that the German Shepherd dog is feeling scared , threatened, or that it is trying to make himself appear smaller and less threatening. It is a common sign of submissive behavior which can lead to German Shepherd aggression. The tucked tail can also mean that your dog is feeling pain or discomfort, especially if it is followed by GSD whining , panting, or limping. Anal Furunculosis Is your dog scooting around the house? He may be suffering from anal furunculosis , a common problem in this dog breed. This is important to know if you are purchasing a German Shepherd dog for a specific purpose or goal. In this case, you would be smart to choose a breeder that specializes in either the American or West German show GSD breed line. This is because show lines are bred for appearance and conformation. In contrast, working GSD lines are bred for personality and temperament traits. Appearance is always secondary. As you can see in these photos from the breeder cited here earlier, the working dog breed lines typically have thinner tails and sometimes the tails are curled, which could result in points off or disqualification in the show dog ring. Earlier here we mentioned that German Shepherds as a general rule can take a longer period of time to mature. The best way to know how long your German Shepherd will take to reach their full adult size and conformation is to learn as much as you can about the parent dogs. As the official GSD breed standard explains, adult German Shepherds can range in size from 65 to 90 pounds and stand anywhere from 22 to 26 inches tall paw pads to shoulders. As well, depending on the breed line your GSD puppy comes from, it can take anywhere from 18 months to 36 months to fully mature. As well, the breed line can influence the time to maturity, with the East German and Czech lines taking the longest in general to mature. Alternately, it could be that your puppy just comes from a breed line that takes longer to mature and you have a bit longer to wait before that fluffy, bushy tail fully grows in. The puppy coat is much softer and fluffier. It is also single-layer and is missing the second insulating under-layer these dogs grow as adults. The puppy coat will start to shed out around the four to the six-month mark. The shedding out period signals the start of the adult coat growing in. The adult German Shepherd coat is double layer. There is a longer, coarse, water-resistant outer layer that ranges from medium to long. Then there is the insulating, soft inner layer that lays close to the skin. However, this whole process can take some time and depend in size and breed line, as we emphasized here earlier. This often happens at the changing of the seasons. This is not anything to worry about.

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.The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. So, how many times a day should you feed your German Shepherd? German Shepherds should be fed at least twice a day. Vets recommend two smaller meals instead of one large meal for healthy digestion and energy. For puppies, feed 4 meals a day up to three months old, then 3 meals a day up to six months old, before finally reducing to 2 meals a day. It is essential to stick to food schedules that are consistent for the long-term health of your German Shepherd, especially as the breed is prone to the life-threatening condition, Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus GDV , commonly known as bloat. This article will cover how often to feed a German Shepherd whether puppy or adult and how much to give your dog to keep him healthy and happy. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. My German Shepherd Willow eating her meal Hey! As a working breed raised to herd and protect sheep, they are typically energetic, enjoy physical activity, and love having a job to do. Due to their dynamic character, they demand a high-energy diet. However, as large, deep-chested dogs, they are one of the breeds prone to bloat GDV , and vets advise against feeding one large meal a day. Twice per day is the standard, with a good few hours in between, as it allows your GSD to eat and digest his food properly. German Shepherds, like most dogs, work well when fed on a schedule. I absolutely agree with this, especially as the German Shepherd is susceptible to a sensitive stomach and is known to have more digestive problems than other breeds. However, if you have any concerns, you should speak to your vet. If you have a high-energy or working German Shepherd, such as a guard dog, assistance dog, or Police or Military dog that gets a lot of exercise, you may consider feeding little and often to prevent hunger. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Schedule German Shepherd puppies will require more frequent feedings as they expend far more energy and have smaller stomachs to hold their food. You should feed a German Shepherd puppy four meals a day between 6 and 12 weeks old. Puppies aged between 12 and 24 weeks should have three meals a day, and from 24 weeks onwards, German Shepherd puppies should be fed twice per day. Age of Puppy. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels.

A Labrador Retriever is perfect if you want a dog who… Is Cheerful: Labrador Retrievers are always optimistic, and is always there for you, cheering you up no matter what happens IS Trainable Labrador Retrievers are responsive to training methods, which makes them easy to housebreak. Is Peaceful Whilst they may not be the most sociable, Labrador Retrievers coexist with other dogs rather well. Is Low-Maintenance Labrador Retrievers have short coats which make them easy to maintain. They do not require frequent brushing. Tips: Safe Spot Labrador Puppies need a sense of protection. Everything is foreign at first, and that can be rather intimidating. However, inevitably, they will be times when the owner leaves the house. To prevent separation anxiety, you can create a comfort den for the puppy. It goes a long way in providing them with a sense of security. Furnish this den with their personal belongings like their favourite toys. It makes the place more personal. Over time, it will feel more like a home within a home for them. That is extremely true in the case of Labrador Puppies. These cute little dogs can sense the energy level around them, and are easily influenced by them. They both respond and react to their environments. Whilst this may sound like a good ida, it can sometimes add on to an already big headache you have: how to deal with the liveliness of your Labrador Retriever. As such, pet adopters might need to learn to control their excitement when in the same room as their Labrador Retriever puppies. Otherwise, these dogs can go in a frenzy, and provide a lot more energy and running about than you are ready for. Exuberance Their energy levels might be too much for some owners, especially those who need a lot of quiet time at home. Activity Daily exercises are a must. If not taken out frequently, Labrador Retrievers could turn rather destructive. Shedding Whilst they have short coats, Labrador Retrievers still shed a healthy amount. You may find their fur all over your clothes. The Labrador Retriever is known to be loyal, outgoing, playful, confident, hardworking and easygoing. What are some Physical Features of the Labrador Retriever? The Labrador grows up to between .His tail is said to resemble that of an otter. Colours are black, yellow, chocolate. The yellow can range from pale cream to a reddish hue. Coat Type and Recommended Grooming Short, straight dense outercoat; soft water-repellant undercoat. Moderate maintenance. No trimming. Weekly brushing. Moderate to heavy shedding. Life Expectancy of the Labrador Retriever 11 to 13 years. Tell us more! Exercise Needs High, especially when young. If exercise needs are not met, can become destructive, chewing anything in their path. Chocolate Labradors have a reputation of being more active than yellow or black. Housing Not suited for apartment life. Happiest in homes where he has access to swimming. Sociability Very friendly to children, but young Labs may be too exuberant for toddlers. This is a great family dog who loves the rough-and-tumble games of children. Also good with other pets. Trainability Exceptionally high; these dogs are eager to please. Early training is important. Recommended Activities Guide dog, hunting and retrieving, obedience, flyball, sniffer dog, therapy dog, search and rescue. It has close to members.

German Shepherd breathing fast while sleeping? Do German Shepherds Breathe Fast? German Shepherds breathe fast because they are strong and athletic dogs, they pant more frequently than other breeds. An accelerated pace of panting or breathing heavily at bedtime or cold weather could indicate medical issues such as anxiousness or cardiovascular distress. Why do German Shepherds breathe fast? During rest, a healthy dog will take between 15 and 35 breaths per minute BPM. Your dog will pant considerably faster while doing exercise. A breathing rate greater than 45 BPM, when a dog is in the resting phase, is considered unhealthy and should be investigated. To find out how many breaths per minute your dog is taking, record his chest motions for 15 seconds and multiply by four. There are several causes of heavy panting in German Shepherds. Some of them are normal physiological signs, and some show ailment. Dog size German Shepherds are large dogs that can be extremely energetic. Large German Shepherds usually breathe quickly because their size requires more oxygenation. Insufficient physical activity They may develop psychological and physiological problems if they do not receive enough workouts. There are several reasons to figure out heavy breathing in German Shepherd dogs. Numerous conditions, particularly cardiac difficulties, can drive dogs to pant excessively. If it seems that your German Shepherd is panting rapidly due to an ailment make sure a vet does an examination of your dog. Recent Activity If your German Shepherd has recently exercised, it may be breathing quickly as a natural outcome. Suppose it is trying to breathe far quicker than anticipated upon workout. Heatstroke Whenever a German Shepherd has been exposed to direct sunlight and is panting profusely, it could suffer from heatstroke. Apart from heavy breathing, other clinical indications can entail: Glasslike eyes. Temperature Dogs have different natural habitats. But they are highly adaptive! Their sweat glands are located only on their foot-pads. Their average body temperature falls within to .This may call for a life-threatening case, such as dehydration and heatstroke. These GSD, which is also called Alsatian, can tolerate both hot and cold weather as they have their standard stock coat. But not too hot nor too cold. They can survive in hot weather only if they have a place to drink cold water, and shade is accessible. But be informed that they dig up in frozen dirt during the summer season to cool themselves. Medical Condition One Veterinarian advises that if the owner tried everything already and the dog any breed still breathes or pants heavily and continuously, this may mean that they have a particular chronic health issue that needs to be treated right away. Cardiovascular conditions such as heartworm disease, heart problem, and Dilated Cardiomyopathy or Heart Disease caused by insufficient blood and oxygen pumped to the body where the heart becomes enlarged, build up fluids in the lungs, and thinner ventricular and chamber walls. For some time, observation is much needed. However, if the obvious signs or complications arise, take them already to the vet! Indigestion Have you even notice your GSD eating or biting almost anything they see! Nonetheless, these can cause reasons for indigestion or even obstruction. Your German Shepherds might have eaten something that was spoiled already. You can also say that they might have eaten big chunks of bones or objects that were stuck down to their throat. Just bring them to a real vet for a faster and effective treatment! Stress or Anxiety This might not be news to you, but German Shepperd is a social dog that can be usually found in the residential area. They are loyal and close to humans. This is also a reason why they can get separation anxiety. They breathe slowly and loudly once they experience stress or anxiety. This is because when they are left alone, they become really stressed. But only because they have this love and desire to keep their owners safe and close. How sweet! Another cause of their stress that can make them pant heavily is noise pollution. This includes the sound of fireworks, thunderstorms, heavy speakers, and basically noise everywhere! If not, this can shorten their life expectancy. What You Can Do? Let them enjoy the exciting moment in their dreams! Before getting a GSD, make sure that you know the basic facts about them and, most importantly, their medical condition. Be cautious at all times and treat them as a real family. If you observe anything unusual, researching or asking an expert is recommended, yet going to the veterinarian clinic would be the best option to choose. You should be aware of the signs that were showing heavy panting nor breathing. The normal heartbeat of dogs is between 60 to beats per minute. As for German Shepherd, the former applies. On the other hand, their average body temperature is to .Anything that made it less or exceeded is dangerous. You can also use the digital rectal thermometer. Count their heartbeats for 15 seconds, and you can multiply it four times to get the pulse per minute. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Faster breathing And so on. .In that case, you have to first and foremost limit the exposure of your dog to heat. After that, you have to consult your vet. The vet will be able to prescribe the proper treatment for heatstroke. Once you opt for that treatment, faster breathing will reduce as well. High Temperature Many times, German shepherds are also negatively impacted by the temperature outside. They might not come in direct contact with the sun. However, if the temperature is on the higher side, their breathing might become fast as well. The best way to tackle is to place them in a shaded area and provide them with plenty of water. Even then, if the faster breathing of the German shepherd does not subside, it is a good idea to contact the vet. Allergy Another cause of the faster breathing of German Shepherd is an allergic reaction. The allergic reaction can be to food, material, or other things. That is why, if you have introduced anything new to your German shepherd, that is probably resulting in faster breathing in one way or the other. If that is the cause, you have to revert to the earlier diet. Once you do so, the breathing will also come to normal. Because of Medication Side effects of medication is another reason why the breathing of your German shepherd might become faster. Certain medications can increase the heart rate of your German shepherd. When that happens, breathing will also increase. Since the cause is medicine, it is a good idea to contact your vet for a remedy. Respiratory Problems In some cases, the respiratory problem can also result in faster breathing. In that case, until you treat the cause, it will become difficult for you to stop the faster breathing of your German shepherd. I will go into the symptoms of respiratory problems below. These are the most common causes why German shepherds have faster breathing. In many cases, even when your dog is resting or sleeping, the breathing can become fast as well. Wondering why does that happens? I will highlight the same below. It has been proven in animals and humans that dreams can result in physical reactions from your body. In the dream, your dog might be chasing or playing around. In that case, the breathing of your dog will simulate that activity. Since while running, breathing becomes faster, the German shepherd may be breathing faster is because of dreaming. Unfortunately, in that case, you cannot do much. It is not a good idea to wake up your German shepherd as well. However, if that happens pretty often, you will have no other alternative but to contact your vet. Before determining whether your German shepherd is breathing fast or normal, it is essential to know the normal level. Ideally, a German Shepherd should breathe between 20 to 34 breaths per minute. Only when the rate is above that can you conclude that the German shepherd is breathing fast. As I have highlighted above, one of the causes of German Shepherd breathing fast is respiratory problems. It is essential to know the symptoms of respiratory problems to determine the cause. What are the signs of respiratory problems? Besides faster breathing, the other signs of respiratory problems include: 1. Coughing The number 1 sign is coughing. If your German shepherd is coughing regularly, that is another sign that the dog has respiratory distress. Nasal Congestion Along with faster breathing, if your dog also suffers from nasal congestion, it is clear that the dog is suffering from respiratory problems. If all these symptoms persist, it is a clear-cut indication of a respiratory problem. Intolerance To Exercise German shepherds are quite active dogs. However, the older German dogs can become intolerant to exercise. After becoming intolerant, they will suffer from respiratory problems and faster breathing if they indulge in exercise. Then, the solution is to discourage them from exercise in that case. Still, if the problem persists, you have to contact your vet. Only the vet can provide you with a treatment for the long-term solution to this problem. Panting Panting is another reason why a German Shepherd might end up breathing fast. It can result in various other respiratory problems as well. These are the symptoms of respiratory problems, along with faster breathing. If you notice any of them, you can directly point to a single cause of fast breathing. In case your dog has respiratory problems, you have to contact your vet as soon as possible. In many cases, medication might be needed. You have to keep in mind that respiratory problems will not go away with time or when you ignore them. You need to find a particular solution for them. Only once you do so you can treat them. Let me warn you; the solution is not instantaneous or easy. You might have to opt for longer-term treatment. However, you cannot ignore the respiratory problems of your dog either. That is why contacting the vet and starting the treatment as soon as possible is the only solution. Conclusion So, there are quite a few key reasons Why do german shepherds breathe so fast. Some of these reasons can be tackled on your own. Some of them require a change in the schedule of your German shepherd. However, some reasons are quite serious. In that case, the only option which you have is to contact your vet. Once you go through my guide above, it will become easier for you to pinpoint the cause. After pinpointing the cause, I have highlighted the action steps which you should take as well. In a nutshell, after going through this guide, there should be no confusion regarding the faster breathing of your German shepherd or what you should do after that. Post navigation. There are a number of reasons why a German Shepherd is breathing fast, and most of them are going to be fairly easy to manage. Typically, you are looking at a minimum of 2 hours of exercise a day for adult Shepherds, and young pups between 3 and 5 months old are typically going to need 30 — 45 minutes a day. Take a note of how long the fast breathing lasts, and if your dog gets it under control fairly quickly then, insufficient exercise might be the culprit. Heart problems can cause fast breathing and a number of diseases, so if the behavior has started fairly recently, then a vet check-up is a good idea at this time. A little time in the shade and some water should help you to see if this is the case. However, if you see signs like drooling, diarrhea, or even seizures, it could actually be a heat stroke! Signs of an allergic reaction may include hives, inflamed skin, diarrhea, and vomiting. Shepherds are very active dogs and generally on the large side, so they are going to require more oxygen when they are out and at play. Unless this behavior is very new, then there might not be a problem at all. Is Your German Shepherd Overweight? If your German Shepherd is a little on the overweight side, then a bit of fast breathing is to be expected. Reaction to New Medications May Cause Heavy Breathing If your vet has recently prescribed some new medication for your dog, then this might be the culprit. Check the side effects associated with the medication, and then you will want to contact your vet. They may be able to prescribe a different medication or a specific regimen for your dog while they are taking it. There are a number of ways to determine if your German Shepherd is breathing a bit on the fast side. One of the first things you should do is try counting their breaths while they are sleeping. This helps to give you a baseline rate with which to compare by. If your dog is breathing fast, listen for any sounds that might give a clue to the reason behind it. Wheezing, for an instant, may be a sign of allergies, and high-pitched sounds may indicate an obstruction located in the upper airway. Contact your vet if you encounter any of the following systems. If you see this, an immediate vet visit is required, and your dog will likely be placed in an oxygen chamber in order to get their breathing under control so that the source of the issue can be identified. If Your Dog Is Vomiting If your dog is panting fast and includes vomiting, you will want to contact your vet for further investigation. It could be an allergic reaction which we will detail a bit more shortly , or if it is very hot outside, then you might be seeing signs of heatstroke. A little shade and a wet towel can help you to cool down your dog, and then you will want to get in touch with your vet immediately. Sudden, Excessive Drooling Excessive drooling is another sign to watch out for. While it is one of the symptoms of heatstroke, it may also indicate an abscessed tooth that your vet will need to deal with to get your dog feeling better and breathing more normally. If You See Signs of an Allergic Reaction Signs of an allergic reaction include itching, hives, skin discoloration, and in some cases, vomiting, sneezing, and diarrhea. It could be that your dog has eaten something or may have been stung by an insect, and they are reacting to this. Your vet will be able to run some tests and confirm if this is the case. Signs of Heat Stroke Drooling, diarrhea, and seizures are all warning signs that your dog may be having a heat stroke. An X-ray and a number of tests will be required to see what is causing this distress, but this is definitely a sign that you do not want to ignore. Keep Your Dog Cool Be sure to pack plenty of water and some towels that you can get to help your Shepherd keep cool. This is important on days when it is very hot out, as these large dogs can quickly overheat if you are not careful. More Exercise Might Be the Answer If your adult Shepherd is not getting 2 hours of exercise a day, then it is a good idea to change your daily routine up for some extra trips for walking or playing outside. Shepherds are very active dogs, and so this daily exercise is an important part of keeping your dog happy and healthy. Sudden, fast breathing that was not occurring before may be caused by a number of things, and testing with your vet can help rule out any illness or injury. This is especially common with rescue animals who may have undergone trauma before you took them home. If you think that this might be the case, your vet can help you to determine the best medications and training strategies to help your dog with this. Cheaper than replacing everything they might break. And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone. And the best part is it also has a day money-back guarantee! You can also check out a full review here to learn exactly what the course has to offer! FAQ Below, we have answers to some of the most common questions we receive regarding German Shepherds and their breathing patterns. A healthy adult Shepherd will have an average rate of 15 — 35 breaths per minute while at rest. If your Shepherd is breathing at 40 breaths per minute or higher when at rest, then you will definitely want to check with your vet to investigate and determine the cause. Why is my German Shepherd breathing fast at night? If your Shepherd is breathing fast at night, in some cases, they might just be dreaming. If the fast breathing is fairly consistent, however, this is a definite reason for a check-up with your local vet to determine what is going on. Count the beats for approximately 15 seconds and then multiply this number by 4. This should give you the number of beats per minute. For temperature, the easiest method is a thermometer treat with water-based lubricant so that you can check the inside one of their eyes. Finally, for the breathing rate, you should be able to simply count the breaths per minute, and if they are over 40 when the dog is at rest, then you should be concerned. Related Posts:. It is active and a big dog German Shepherds tend to be big dogs and they can be very active. If your German Shepherd is big and it tends to be very active then it could be that it breathes fast because its body requires more oxygen naturally. However, if it is big and active but it has suddenly started to breathe faster than normal then it would be more likely that it would be due to something else. Not enough exercise German Shepherds are a breed that are supposed to be getting a lot of exercise on a daily basis. When they do not get much exercise it can cause them to develop behavioral and health issues. If yours is not getting much exercise then it could be the case that it needs more. Generally, it is recommended that German Shepherds get an hour of exercise daily. Related post: Ways to exercise your German Shepherd. Illness or injury An illness or injury could be the cause. There are many diseases that can cause dogs to breathe faster including heart problems. If yours has suddenly started breathing rapidly, it has suddenly changed its behavior and it has been showing other signs of illness or injury then it would be more likely to be due to illness or injury. If it does seem like yours might be breathing fast due to illness or injury then it would help a lot to take it to a vet. It has been active recently If your German Shepherd has just been doing exercise then it would be likely that it is breathing fast as a result of that. If it is breathing much faster than it normally does after exercise then it could be something more serious especially if it persists. If it is breathing much faster then it would be more likely to be due to things such as heatstroke or an allergic reaction. Heatstroke If your German Shepherd has been out in the sun for a while and it has started panting a lot then it could be because it has heatstroke. It would also be more likely if it is drooling more, its heart rate is very high, it has diarrhea and seizures. If it does then make sure to let it into a cool and shaded area, to give it water and to follow the advice in this article then to take it to a vet. In this case, it would help to give it access to a cool, shaded area and water. If it does seem to be showing the signs of heatstroke mentioned above then it would be important to follow the advice in the above article. Medication If your German Shepherd has started doing it after being put on medication then it could be a side effect of the medication source. This would be more likely if heavy breathing is listed as a side effect. However, it would help to make sure it is ok with your vet. Allergic reaction The cause could be that it has had an allergic reaction to something. If it has been showing signs of having an allergic reaction then it would help to take it to a vet. Things to consider There are many things that you can consider when trying to figure out why your German Shepherd has been breathing fast. If it always pants fast If your German Shepherd has always panted fast then it would be more likely to be natural especially if the vet has not found any issues on previous visits. However, it would still help to ask if the panting is normal on your next visit. If it has started panting fast suddenly then it would be more likely to be due to a more serious problem unless it has just been doing a lot of exercise. When it first started panting fast The timing of when it first started panting fast would be helpful to consider. Whereas, if it has just been running around then it would be more likely to be due to that. How to get your German Shepherd to stop breathing fast The best way for you to get your German Shepherd to stop breathing fast will depend on the cause. However, I will show you some options that you have below. Keep it cool If it has been hot outside then it would help to make sure that your German Shepherd has access to a cool and shaded area and water. It would also help to avoid exercising it during the day and to try to do it in the early morning or evening instead. Another thing that you can do to help keep it cool would be to remove its undercoat with a de-shedding brush. Give it exercise If your German Shepherd has not been getting much exercise and the vet has not found issues then it would be important to make sure that it does get exercise. You can make sure to give it exercise by walking it, playing fetch with it or getting a dog walker to do it for you. If you want a happy and obedient German Shepherd, this is one of the best online dog training programs available right now. You can get the first month free using This link. Vomiting Temperature above degrees Fahrenheit If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, call your vet right away. Additionally, following the below treatment steps at the first signs can help cool the dog and provide life-saving care: Treating Heatstroke in Dogs The number one way to treat heatstroke is to avoid it in the first place. Never leave your dog in a parked car, because even with the windows cracked, temperatures can get up to degrees Fahrenheit. For a dog suffering from heatstroke, you want to cool them down slowly. Make sure not to drop their temperature too quickly since that can lead to constricted blood vessels, which can cause a stroke. Give your dog cool not cold water to drink. Give him ice cubes to lick. Note: Be careful not to spray your dog with a water hose; the water left in hoses can heat to almost boiling temperatures. Much like you get wound up for a big presentation at work or excited to meet a friend, your dog also experiences such emotions. They may be thrilled to see you get home for the day or get worked up when strangers ring your doorbell. Either way, some amount of panting from excitement is expected; however, if it is frequent or constant, it may mean your dog has a more severe form of anxiety. German Shepherds may be more susceptible to anxiety as they are a hyper-vigilant dog breed. They are protective of their humans and want to be involved in all aspects of life. This mentality can lead to heightened levels of anxiety as the dog feels the need to be ever-alert. In these cases, it is possible for the owner to calm them in the short term and keep them that way. This can be done with a series of training exercises and some diet changes. Chronic Illness Some dogs may contract a chronic illness or condition that causes them to breathe more heavily than average. Heart Disease or Heart Failure Heart failure is one of the most common illness that causes panting in dogs and cats. Animals show some of the same symptoms as people when it comes to heart failure, including heavy breathing, coughing, and fatigue. Excessive thirst, hair loss, and a pot-bellied appearance can accompany heavy panting. Treatment can include medication and ACE inhibitors. Respiratory Disorders Respiratory disorders can also cause heavy breathing, such as pneumonia, laryngeal paralysis, lung tumors. Contact a vet to rule out any of these dangerous conditions. As allergies affect the respiratory system the same way as humans, your dog may need to breathe more heavily due to a histamine reaction. Typically allergies cause noisy breathing or wheezing in addition to increased breathing rate. Luckily, though, allergies can be treated with medication or the avoidance of allergic triggers. They also can mask it behind normal-seeming behavior gestures such as tail wagging or panting. However, as their guardians, it is our job to notice these changes in behavior. Accompanying panting, you may notice restlessness, anxiety, licking or scratching an area excessively, or enlarged pupils. Medication Some medications can cause shortness of breath or excessive panting in dogs. While it may seem challenging to determine the difference at first, with a little practice, it will become easy. While this practice is essential for dogs with heart failure or other preexisting conditions, it can also be useful to know for healthy animals, too. This way, you are prepared if an emergency ever arises. Most dogs take between breaths per minute, though some can be lower, which is generally not a cause for concern. Higher than 30 breaths per minute is normal if the dog is hot or winded but should not be a sustained rate. However, if they are calm and resting, this works as well. One breath consists of both a rise and a fall in chest movement, which is an indication of an inhale and exhale. Use a stopwatch, phone, or another timepiece to measure 30 seconds as you count the breaths. If you are counting the breaths of a healthy animal, do this once per day so you can establish a baseline. If your pet is ill or experiencing heart failure, your vet may recommend monitoring this every hour. This is especially the case if your dog shows other signs of hyperventilation, such as: Rapid heart rate Collapsing or fainting Weakness If this is related to a physical health issue, the vet may recommend making an appointment or emergency visit. If the panting is determined to be due to stress or anxiety, your vet may offer recommendations on how to calm your dog. How To Calm Panting In Anxious Dogs Dogs, like people, can get stressed, nervous, or anxious in unfamiliar situations or due to changes in routine. Some dogs are extra sensitive, and even one small thing being out of place like a squirrel running around in the yard can cause them to get worked up. When dogs get worked up in such fashion, it could cause them to pant heavily and often. In doing this, the owner should also remain calm so their buddy can pick up on it. In training your dog to adopt calmness, positive reinforcement is the key; this comes primarily in the form of treats but also affirmations of good behavior work as well. Just ensure your affirmations are not too enthusiastic because that could cause excitement in the dog, thus counteracting your recent training session. Yogurt in a squeeze bottle, shredded chicken, or the soft sausage-rolled dog treats are some options you can try. You can also use finding treats as a distraction from whatever is upsetting your pooch. Sniffing is a natural calming action for dogs as it allows their focus to be on something tangible. It also dedicates breaths to the sniff, which can alleviate panting. If they need encouragement, look with them, and point out the tasty treats. Practice Calming Behaviors As an owner, taking your own deep breaths can help show the dog that calm is okay. You want to encourage your dog once they stop panting, even for a moment, and provide them with a treat. Use treats and a flat, upturned palm to slowly encourage your dog to move their chin closer to your hand. Spark their interest in the mat with treats and affirmations without telling the dog to go to the mat. Since it is supposed to be a refuge for your dog, you want it to be their idea when they goes there. At first, the mat will only be out as a special treat and hidden the rest of the time. Eventually, you can leave the mat out all the time and quietly reward your pet for lying on the mat on their own. If you see your dog sleeping or relaxing, quietly place a treat nearby without saying anything. This is the time where enthusiastic praise could actually be a detriment because it will get the pup wound up again. Always call your vet if you are unsure if care is needed. Final thoughts Heat and humidity The German shepherd is extremely sensitive to heat and humidity and will breathe and pant profusely if left tied up or confined in a hot environment. This is an involuntary reaction to heat or high temperatures, and although it may be uncomfortable for the dog, your German Shepherd cannot control his heavy breathing. Panting is also a way for the German Shepherd to cool down, which he does by evaporating water from his tongue and mouth. Their long digestive tracts allow this process to release heat slowly rather than abruptly. The heavier the coat of fur, the slower the heat dissipation process. Recovering from Exercise A dog that is exercised heavily will also pant. German shepherds are a high-energy breed and need plenty of exercise to stay healthy. If you suspect your dog is panting too heavily because of exercise, stop for a few minutes to allow the respiratory system to recover. Avoid exercising your dog too much in hot weather, and always provide plenty of fresh, clean water to drink. This will ensure your German Shepherd remains healthy and does not overheat. Stress or anxiety Breathing hard is also a common reaction in stressed or anxious dogs. This can happen when they are at the veterinary surgery, during grooming, or when faced with an unfamiliar situation. Some dogs become anxious when a stranger comes over if a certain visitor arrives, or someone goes outside of the house without them. Dogs will also pant under these circumstances if they have separation anxiety because they feel anxious about being alone in the house. In many cases, the panting will go away once the dog gets used to the person or situation causing them anxiety. One is to make sure they get plenty of exercise. A tired dog is less likely to be anxious. You can also try training your dog using positive reinforcement. This will help them feel more confident and secure in their surroundings. Long digestive tracts The cooling process takes longer for these dogs because of the length of their digestive tracts, so bony areas such as their noses are susceptible to overheating. It may also be easier for them to breathe through the mouth since it allows air to pass over larger surfaces due to the size of their noses. Experiencing pain Dogs will also pant when they are in pain, as this is a way for the body to release endorphins, which are hormones that help reduce pain. He may be experiencing pain from an injury or illness. Ingestion of Toxins Ingestion of toxins can cause dogs to pant excessively. The most common toxins dogs consume are chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic. This can be harmful and even fatal to your dog. If he ingests any of these and begins to pant heavily, take him straight to the veterinarian or animal hospital right away. Pregnancy Female german shepherds may pant heavily during pregnancy. This is because the increased blood flow and added weight can make it difficult for the dog to breathe. The puppies will also take in more oxygen than usual, so you may notice your dog panting even more when they are nursing. Heatstroke If your German Shepherd is panting heavily, this serious condition requires veterinary attention, so take your dog to the nearest clinic immediately. German shepherds are more susceptible to heatstroke than other breeds because of their large size. If your dog is panting heavily and you see that he is also vomiting, has diarrhea, or is staggering around, he may be suffering from heatstroke. Ensure that you move him to a cool environment immediately in these situations. Heart disease Some dogs pant heavily because they have heart disease. This is common in older dogs and can be caused by various problems such as a malfunctioning heart valve or an enlarged heart. Why does my German Shepherd breathe so fast while sleeping? There are several reasons why a german shepherd would breathe heavily while sleeping. One of the most common reasons is allergies. If this sounds like your dog, you should consult with your veterinarian about an allergy treatment plan that might reduce excessive breathing during sleep time. Another reason for heavy panting while sleeping is heart failure. Heart failure can cause many different symptoms, including fast breathing, coughing, and labored breathing. If your GSD is exhibiting any other symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or swelling in the extremities, it is essential to take them to the vet for a check-up. The last potential reason for heavy breathing while sleeping is sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition that causes a dog to stop breathing for short periods during sleep. This can be dangerous if untreated because it can lead to heart problems, seizures, and even death. If you think your dog might have sleep apnea, then you should consult with your veterinarian about getting them tested. What is the average respiration rate for German Shepherds? In general, however, the average respiration rate for german shepherds is about 30 breaths per minute. This means that a dog takes in about 30 breaths of air every minute. Why is it important to know the average respiration rate for German shepherds? Knowing the average respiration rate for german shepherds can be helpful for owners and breeders. By learning how often a dog typically breathes, people can better understand when a dog is breathing too fast or too slow and may need veterinary attention. Additionally, this information can help people select healthy dogs for breeding. Final thoughts In general, it is normal for a German shepherd to breathe hard, which should not cause concern. However, if your dog is panting excessively or breathing in an abnormal manner, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues. A normal rate of breathing for dogs is between 10 and 35 breaths per minute, and the average dog takes about 24 breaths per minute at rest. Heavy Breathing In Puppies In general, puppies have higher respiratory rates and heart rates compared to adult dogs. A normal breathing rate for a puppy is between breaths per minute. This usually happens in the REM rapid eye movement stage of the sleep cycle, and may be accompanied by whimpers or leg movements—all of which are completely normal. In most cases, it is no cause for alarm. Your dog is breathing heavy at rest If your dog is breathing heavy at rest, it can be a red flag for a number of serious health issues. Your dog is panting with a closed or partially open mouth While panting is normal in dogs, if your dog is breathing heavily with a closed mouth or just a partially open mouth, it can be a sign of something more serious and should receive medical attention. Your dog is coughing and breathing heavy If your dog is coughing and breathing heavy, it may be a sign of chronic bronchitis or another serious respiratory issue. Your dog appears to be in distress A dog in distress may be restless, have little to no appetite, and try to hide. Your dog may show other signs of stress such as tucking the tail between the legs and ears that are pinned back rather than being relaxed. Your dog is making other noises while breathing heavy If your dog is having difficulty breathing, they may also make other noises such as snorting, wheezing, or retching. These are common symptoms associated with other respiratory conditions like chronic bronchitis. Treatment For Heavy Breathing In Dogs Treatment for heavy breathing in dogs will vary depending on the underlying cause. Your dog may need oxygen therapy to stabilize their condition and ensure they are getting enough oxygen to their organs. Take the Canine Bronchitis Assessment to see if your dog could have chronic bronchitis.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. What to Feed German Shepherd Puppies: A Healthy Feeding Guide One of the first things you need to know about what to feed German Shepherd puppies is, right from the start, to choose a high-quality puppy-specific food for large breed puppies. What to feed German Shepherd puppies—feed German Shepherd puppies a diet that is: Specifically created for large-breed puppies. What do German Shepherd puppies eat? New owners are given a host of choices when bringing home their new pups. You can choose to offer one or the other, or even opt for mixed feeding. Dry Kibble Kibble is the most popular and economical choice for German Shepherd puppies. Plus, the major manufacturers offer a complete and balanced diet in many different flavors, with or without grains, and even limited ingredient diets. Kibble can be moistened either with water or broth. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of kibble when it comes to feeding German Shepherd puppies: Advantages Easy to purchase at most stores and online. Keeps for longer than other food options. Quick and simple to serve with little clean up. Disadvantages Can be difficult for some puppies to chew, causing them to not eat enough. Wet Food Here are some advantages and disadvantages of feeding German Shepherd puppies wet food : Advantages Softer and potentially more palatable for picky eaters. Contains more water content than dry food, which can help keep your puppy hydrated. Can leave dogs feeling fuller for longer due to the water content. Can be more expensive than kibble in the long run. Requires more preparation time. Mixing Dry Kibble and Wet Foods Feeding our German Shepherd puppies is no easy task, and deciding between wet and dry puppy food can leave us scratching our heads. But what if we told you there was a middle ground? Mixing wet and dry puppy foods can be an option worth considering, but it comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Wet food contributes to increased water intake, ensuring your furry friend stays well-hydrated. Allows you to provide a diverse array of nutrients, contributing to a balanced diet for your growing German Shepherd. Disadvantages Might make it trickier to regulate portion sizes accurately, potentially leading to overfeeding and weight issues. These diets exclude foods that have been cooked or processed in any way. There are also some advantages and disadvantages to feeding a German Shepherd puppy a raw food diet: Advantages Raw diets consist of uncooked, fresh ingredients that retain their natural nutrients, potentially promoting better health for your puppy. Some puppies with food sensitivities might find relief on a raw diet as it eliminates common allergens found in processed foods. Disadvantages Preparing a balanced raw diet requires careful planning to ensure your pup gets all the necessary nutrients in the right proportions. Raw diets carry a higher risk of bacterial contamination, potentially affecting both your pup and you. Sourcing high-quality ingredients and properly storing them can be costly and time-consuming. Homemade Diets For large breed puppies, like German Shepherds, homemade diets must be carefully formulated, just like commercial foods. To create a homemade diet recipe specifically for your dog, it is preferable to consult a veterinarian who holds a board certification in veterinary nutrition. Unfortunately, research has shown that many well-intentioned dog owners still overfeed or give their dogs an unbalanced diet, which can be harmful. By cooking at home, you can skip additives and preservatives often found in commercial dog food. Disadvantages Without proper knowledge and planning, homemade meals may lack essential nutrients, leading to nutritional imbalances. Preparing homemade food demands time and effort, which might be challenging for busy pet parents. Mishandling raw ingredients can lead to contamination, causing health issues for your puppy. Remember, these charts help provide a guideline, but each dog is an individual. For example, if your dog has had a busy day of training and playing, they may need a few extra calories for dinner. This helps ensure they are growing as expected, and if not, you may need to alter the recommended feeding amount. As a rule of thumb, most German Shepherd puppies will eat as follows in this chart: Age. 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.Growth and weight The German Shepherd puppy is a popular addition to many households. Sometimes called the Alsatian puppy, the German Shepherd was initially developed for herding and now commonly used as a working dog or pet. This is your guide to providing all the nutrients your new puppy needs. When Your Puppy Comes Home Although they look pretty sturdy at eight weeks old, German Shepherd puppies are vulnerable to tummy upsets when they arrive at a new home. To help them settle in stick with the food their breeder was giving them for the first two weeks minimum. You can then gradually swap over by increasing proportions over the course of a couple of days. However, if they are doing well on their original food, considering sticking with it for longer. To begin with follow the guidelines provided by the breeder, the feed manufacturer or by your veterinarian. This will vary depending on how calorie dense the food is and how it is formulated. Your puppy should be fed four times a day up to the age of four months. After this age, two larger meals at regular times will be sufficient. However, the more often you feed your pup the stronger your bond will grow. Simple sits and recalls, puppy tricks, they all make a big difference to how your dog behaves towards you and feels about you as they grow. What to Feed A German Shepherd Puppy You will find there are a lot of different opinions about what kind of food is best. Kibble and wet food are the most popular, but you do also have the option of raw or homemade meals. Puppy Kibble Great quality, high meat content kibble is my go-to for feeding larger puppy breeds. At the beginning of the day I measure out their daily food amount, then separate it into little pots. Some as meals, and the remainder to use throughout the day to reward good behavior or get off on the right foot with positive reinforcement. The FDA recently issued a notice alerting dog owners to a potential increased risk of a serious heart condition. This is called canine dilated cardiomyopathy DCM. The risk is in dogs eating foods that include peas, lentils, or potatoes instead of grains. The underlying cause of these cases is not clear, but the FDA note suggests that caution should be used in selecting foods with these ingredients for German Shepherds and other large dogs. Canned Dog Food For picky eaters canned food can be more appealing. It smells stronger, and debatably tastes nicer. These diets do not include cooked or otherwise processed foods. However, it may be more difficult to regulate a BARF diet to ensure a slow and steady growth rate in young puppies. If you find this option intriguing, you can check out our article on feeding your dog a raw diet. Homemade Diets Research has shown that in the past, poorly balanced homemade diets have been harmful to German Shepherd puppies. There is now abundant information available to anyone who is willing and able to produce a safe and balanced diet. However, modern cases studies have shown that well-meaning owners may still over-feed or create an unbalanced diet. So, this is an area where you really can have too much of a good thing. As with commercial foods, homemade diets must be properly formulated for a large breed dog. Do not deviate from recommended recipes as provided by a veterinarian. If possible, preferably a vet with a board certification in veterinary nutrition. Recipes published in popular magazine and websites may not be nutritionally complete or suitable for a large breed puppy. Is My Puppy the Right Weight? You can also refer to German Shepherd puppy growth charts to see if you puppy is gaining weight and within the normal range. However, keep in mind that some dogs will be unusually small or large but still be perfectly healthy. Do not try to maximize growth rates as this can lead to health problems later. Ensure that you are familiar with how to assess the body condition of your puppy. The ribs and spine should be easy to feel but not simple to see. My Puppy Is Still Hungry If your puppy seems excessively hungry provide more frequent but smaller meals. Young puppies cannot tolerate going without food for extended periods. With older puppies you may wish to experiment with foods that help them feel more full, and provide low calories treats. Keeping a health puppy active and occupied will help prevent them from becoming overly focused on anticipating their next meal.