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Updated On: September 23, Golden retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They are fun, loving, and smart. Overall, this is a relatively healthy breed. Yet, there are some diseases that are prevalent in Golden Retrievers. They were bred for hunting and retrieving waterfowl. In many ways, the Golden Retriever resembles the Labrador Retriever, which is another sporting and waterfowl breed. They are actually very similarly sized breeds and live approximately years. Golden Retrievers do have some differences with Labs. The most obvious difference is in their appearance. Golden Retrievers have a characteristically golden coat. Labs come in brown, black, or yellow colors. Golden Retrievers can also have either long or short costs. Golden Retrievers tend to be quieter than labs. Also, Golden Retrievers have a few more health issues. Because they were bred as a sporting and hunting dog, Golden Retrievers need a lot of exercise. Without the stimulation they need, they can become destructive. If you want a couch potato dog, then the Golden Retriever may not be for you. However, if you enjoy swimming, playing catch, walking and running, and many other outside activities, you and your Golden Retriever will get along just fine. Golden Retrievers are fairly healthy on average, but there are a few common health concerns: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia As with many large breeds, elbow and hip dysplasia are both common in Golden Retrievers. It is a genetic condition that causes the femoral head to partially dislocate. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia can cause stiff and painful joints. You will notice your dog struggling to stand or having an unusual gait with this condition. Most responsible breeders will ensure that they do not breed dogs with Hip or Elbow Dysplasia. If your dog has the disease, your veterinarian can help you create a treatment plan. Treatment will depend on the severity of the symptoms. It may range from pain medication and therapy to surgery. Cancer Unfortunately, cancer is very common among Golden Retrievers. That is a huge occurrence of the disease in this breed. As with humans, cancer is spread genetically. There are actually far more cases of cancer in Golden Retrievers than there were in the s. That is good news because it may point to a new genetic mutation in the breed. Researchers are looking for a reason for the recent rise in Golden Retriever cancer rates. The good news is, cancer in Golden Retrievers may be treatable depending on the type. Epilepsy Epilepsy is a neurological condition common in dogs and Golden Retrievers are no different. They are prone to this disease. You can suspect that your Golden Retriever has epilepsy if they have involuntary seizures or lose consciousness often. If you notice these symptoms, take your Golden Retriever to your vet immediately. Epilepsy can be treated through the use of medication. The two most common are phenobarbital and potassium bromide. Research is ongoing into more modern anticonvulsants. Allergies More than many other breeds, Golden Retrievers are prone to allergies. Their allergies can cause skin problems like lick granulomas or hot spots. Wheat allergies are common with this breed, as are environmental allergies. Most allergies can be controlled. Otherwise, you can help them by treating the symptoms of their allergies. Take them to the vet if they excessively lick or scratch at an area. Also, removing the allergen as much as possible can help control symptoms. Golden Retriever Mobility Loss Joint conditions like hip dysplasia are the tip of mobility problems impacting Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers are active dogs, making them prone to injuries like ACL tears. It is devastating when a previously active dog can no longer walk. A dog wheelchair can help your senior Golden Retriever to walk again. If your Golden Retriever struggles to move, a dog wheelchair might be precisely what they need! Buddy the Golden Retriever and His Wheelchair Two days ago Buddy lost use of his hips from displacement and arthritis. Early this morning I felt there was no other option but to put our family member Buddy down. He had not gone to the bathroom for almost 2 days. But then, I found your optional rear end harness! It is absolutely perfect for the manual transport to and from house, car, etc. I found you on the Internet this morning, drove to your office. Now my family and I have more time with our beloved Buddy. Thank you! However, the increase in cancer rates in the breed is worrying. Regular vet checkups and constant love and handling can help you catch any health problems before they get out of control. Make sure you are aware of the health issues before deciding on a Golden Retriever. That knowledge ensures you help your beloved Golden live a long and healthy life. Related Articles:. With wonderful temperaments, playful spirits, and beautiful golden fur, they are among the most popular dogs to have as pets. They are frequently used as service dogs, rescue dogs, and bird dogs because of how well they respond to training and their friendly natures. They are great pets for families with children as well. However, Golden Retrievers can be susceptible to degenerative myelopathy DM as they age. Whether your Golden has already been diagnosed with Golden Retriever DM or you simply want to be proactive in their healthcare, understanding this disease and its treatment is essential. Because DM in Golden Retrievers affects the myelin sheath of the spinal cord, the only way to see the damage is during an autopsy. There are, however, several symptoms that can point to this disease, including swaying while standing, difficulty standing, and trouble getting up when lying down. This is when a Golden walks on the top of its paws, rather than the pads, particularly when turning. Similarly, the dog might have trouble using its back legs or keeping its hind end up as the disease progresses. Eventually, most dogs with Golden Retriever DM will end up paralyzed due to nerve damage. Although it is not possible to conclusively diagnose Golden Retriever DM, you can do a genetic test to determine whether your dog cannot get the disease, carries the disease, or might have the disease. DM is caused by a mutation of the SoD-1 gene, and for your dog to get DM, it must have two mutated copies of the gene. The genetic test is simple, and it can help you to plan ahead for your Golden or provide clarity if you are not sure whether you are seeing the early symptoms of DM or osteoarthritis in your dog. While there is no cure for DM in Golden Retrievers, there are a number of ways you can support your Golden Retriever as they live with this disease. Making sure that your Golden is able to maintain their mobility is a key aspect of helping them live a full life. Physical therapy is essential for this goal as it can slow the degeneration of muscle mass and help your dog keep their weight in check. Many dogs end up using wheelchairs as their back legs lose function. Vitamins, B, C, and E can be particularly helpful, and it is worth considering dietary supplements to make sure they get these vitamins in sufficient quantities. A sad reality of DM in Golden Retrievers is that you will most likely have to make the decision about when to euthanize your dog. As the condition progresses, they will lose control of their bladder or bowels, and in many cases, they will become almost completely paralyzed. Part of their treatment plan is understanding when your dog needs to be put down, but effective palliative care can extend their liveable years and reduce their suffering. Omega-3 Oils as a DM treatment for Golden Retrievers Omega-3 oils are essential nutrients for dogs of all ages and health situations, but they can be particularly valuable for dogs with Golden Retriever DM. They are rich in vitamins like A, D, and E, as well as essential fatty acids. These vitamins and fatty acids can promote brain, joint, and coat health, and they act as natural anti-inflammatories. It is important to note that not all Omega-3 oil supplements are created equal. In some oils, heavy metals, like lead, arsenic, mercury, or cadmium, are present. These metals are dangerous for dogs, and if your dog has Golden Retriever DM, they can be particularly harmful given their weakened neurological system. Toxins and dioxins can be present in lesser oils as well. They are made through molecular distillation. These human-quality oils are cold processed and thoroughly tested. In fact, our oils are tested to a higher standard than is required by both national and international bodies. These oils are in liquid form, so you do not have to struggle to convince your dog to take pills. Simply combine the oil with their normal meals. We understand how important your Golden Retriever is and how hard it is to watch them suffer from Golden Retriever DM. We want to help you take the best care of your lovable pet as possible, and Omega-3 oils can do just that. Combined with exercise, diet, and other interventions, these supplements can help your dog make the most of their time and remain connected to you and your family. Make sure to check with your vet to talk about how these supplements might interact with other medications and for dosage guidelines.

A lot of people assume my boxers tail has been docked, and are quick to make their views on the matter known. They are often surprised however when I inform them that Bosun has not had his tail docked. Working dogs include any dog used in law enforcement or Armed Forces, emergency rescue, and lawful pest control and shooting of animals. In Scotland, an outright ban save for medical treatment was introduced under the Animal Health and Welfare Scotland Act in , later amended in to provide exemptions specifically for working gun dogs and hunt, point, retrieve breeds such as Spaniels and Pointers. Only up to a third of the tail may be amputated. The rules on showing dogs with docked tails also varies between the devolved nations. It is a contentious issue, but exemptions have been made to working dog breeds because of strong supporting arguments that they are at greater risk of painful tail injuries often leading to medical intervention in adult life. The docking or partial amputation is therefore carried out as a preventative measure. Anyone who has seen the frantically excited wag of a Springer Spaniel tail can see how injuries could happen. It should be noted however that the British Veterinary Association view on tail docking is that it should be banned as a procedure for all breeds of dogs, unless for medical reasons e. The docking of working dogs must be carried out by a vet to puppies less than 5 days old and never for cosmetic purposes. Although categorised as a working dog by the UK Kennel Club and historically used their native Germany during the war and as police dogs, typically Boxers in the UK are companion and family dogs and a such the docking of their tails is no longer permitted unless for medical reasons. In the United States, where Boxers are consistently ranked within in the top 10 most popular dog breeds, docking of tails and the cropping of ears remains common practice for cosmetic purposes. Bosun with his littermates — you can clearly see the puppy in the foreground has a long tail. Dr Cattanach was a champion boxer breeder and exhibitor with degrees in genetics and in anticipation of the ban, bred the bobtail line by selecting the genes from the naturally short tail of the Pembrokeshire Corgi. The length of the bobtail can vary, and not all puppies bred in a litter will be born with the short tail. Bosun was one of 7, and only he and one other were bobtailed. Just like Labrador litters, where the puppies may be of assorted colours! The trained eye can identify a natural bobtail from a docked tail, as the bobbed will have tail bone which narrows to a point with a fleshy pad covering the end and usually a tuft of hair at the tip of the tail to finish, whereas a docked tail will be blunt. They are no more or less susceptible to health issues and Dr Cattanach led further work and research into improving the overall health of the Boxer breed. Pembrokeshire Corgi. Photo credit: Alvan Nee on Unsplash My own view is that all pedigrees were bred through the selection of desired genes and characteristics, and choosing a bobtail is no different than choosing a chocolate lab over a yellow one. As for body language, the absence of a tail has not caused us any issues as there are other ways to observe behaviour such as body posture and ear positioning. Short and bobtailed dog breeds Other dog breeds with naturally short or stumpy tails include the French Bulldog and Boston Terrier, both have been selectively bred for this physical characteristic originating from a mutated gene. A few others also carry the mutated gene and can be found both with bob or long tails, such as the Brittany Spaniel and Old English Sheepdog. The Boxer however is the only breed for whom the mutated tail gene has been deliberately introduced. If you do happen to see a boxer or other dog with a docked tail it may well be that this has been a necessary medical procedure due to painful damage to the tail and not for vanity. In my experience people are always happy to stop and engage in a conversation about their dogs so if curious, stop and ask the owner about their dog. Watch out for boxer slobber though — apologies in advance! Thanks for reading! Click to expand.If you'd bothered to read the articles on the bobtail you'd know that it was in the 2nd generation of the cross. That there appeared a puppy that was Boxer in type and look, she was called Jane. So not over many, many years. None to my knowledge, they were all placed in pet homes. They were invited back to Dr Cattanach's home for garden parties in the summer. I personally can state this as I have attended more than one of these as a guest before I owned a bobtail. There you will get the truth. The pedigree is stripped,quite correctly, so one cannot show with the bloodline that has been adulterated by people who wish to prosper at the expense of our beloved Boxer. If anyone is thinking of purchasing a Boxer it would be wise to avoid the dog that has been tinkered with and go for a verified Boxer. Why should anyone that seek the truth go to the French Kennel Club? What truth's do they have? I suggest anyone that wants the truth go to Dr Cattanach himself. Why would a foreign kennel club have all the data? As our KC registrations are not automatically registered with every worldwide Kennel Club. In actual fact your statement that one cannot show the bloodline is incorrect. The ONLY disqualification is that of the natural stumpy tail. So you can have a fully tailed one with exactly the same percentage of Corgi that can be shown under FCI rules. Dr Cattanach did not create the bobtail Boxer to prosper. It's not exclusive to the bobtail Boxer. But perhaps this is why breeders should be endorsing puppies prior to sale but the commercial element don't care they will just register them with the 'alternative registries' out there. After all most people that want a puppy do so because they want a pet they don't want to show it.They only care that they want a puppy that looks a certain way or is a certain colour or has certain markings. That's the supply and demand ethos of ANY commodity regardless if it's a living being or an inanimate object. But it's not the norm. Also a lot of people want a puppy and want them now regardless if they are the right home environment for that breed and because of the I want it now mentality they will not wait for puppies that are from ethical breeders. He has also helped other breeds with diseases that have a genetic basis. I suggest that anyone that wants to buy a Boxer regardless if it is a bobtail or not does so from health tested parents. Last edited by a moderator: Oct 30, .Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We have introduced the Bobtail Boxers into our bloodlines due to the Tail docking ban in Australia. This allows us to continue to breed the Boxer in its original fashion by having short tails. We welcomed Saboo into our home in .Here is a short summary on the history of the Boxer with a natural short tail, Not Docked. It began with the crossing of one of Dr. To answer the question on the possibility of Corgi characteristics reappearing in progeny, Dr Cattanach undertook a "double up" mating with a dog and bitch that were both only four generations removed from the Corgi. The four puppies were all short backed, had decent heads with obvious Boxer chins. None showed any trace of the short legs and longer coat type of the Corgi. The matings taking place in Australia now are 8 or more generations away from the Corgi and have less than 0. The length of a Bobtail can be in all variations, some even have a kink in the tail. All of our bobtails here at Roxbud come with a Veterinary certificate to confirm that they are bobtails. If you would like to know more about the boxers you are welcome to email me or give me a phone call. When discussions started early in the new millennium about introducing a new law banning the practice of tail docking, we started to look into the fascinating work of Dr Bruce Cattanach of Steynmere Boxers in the United Kingdom who had created a naturally short tail in Boxers Bobtail. All bobtail puppies carrying the Boxberry kennel name or by our stud dogs will be sold to pet homes only, they will not be sold to puppy farmers or people who want to breed for profit. We believe that our Bobtails are very special and in trying to maintain and improve the quality of Bobtails produced breeders require extensive experience and knowledge to be able to breed them for the betterment of the breed. If you are looking for a Bobtail puppy to breed from you would be wise to look elsewhere. Here is a short summary on the history of the Bobtail Boxer. It began with the crossing of one of Dr. Cattanach is a geneticist by profession, with a specialty in the cause and analysis of genetic defects. To answer the question on the possibility of Corgi characteristics reappearing in progeny, Dr Cattanach undertook a "double up" mating with a dog and bitch that were both only four generations removed from the Corgi. The four puppies were all short backed, had decent heads with obvious Boxer chins. None showed any trace of the short legs and longer coat type of the Corgi. The matings taking place in Australia now are eight or more generations away from the Corgi and have less than 0. The length of a Bobtail can be in all variations, some even have a kink in the tail. A Bobtail can be identified by the feel of the end part of the tail. All of our Bobtails have veterinary documents verifying that they are in fact natural Bobtails. Bobtail Boxers can now be found in the UK, Europe, America and Australia, and have competed successfully in the show ring with both long tailed and docked dogs. However, whether the inherited short tail will be accepted by breeders here remains to be seen. The disadvantage of the tail gene used is that it will not breed true, there will only be a percentage of puppies in a litter with Bobtails. Are Bobtail Boxers pure? Ben Gantner - Biologist There is such a thing as "genetic purity" in a functional sense in biology. It simply means that an animal is homozygous at all alleles animals have two copies of each gene, one maternal, and one paternal, "purity" here would mean having two of the same copy for each gene , and has a breeding parter with the same genetic makeup. Many research strains of mice are "genetically pure" in this sense, and this is probably the only appropriate sense of the term. The animals exhibit a great many abnormalities as a result however, such as tendencies for cancer, autoimmunity, as well as growth or behavioral defects as a result of this lack of genetic diversity. What is generally referred to as 'genetic purity' when talking about dogs or cats or crops would be better referred to as an attempt to achieve "phenotypic purity". Phenotypes are the physical or behavioral characteristics that result from a given genome. Animal or plant breeders tend to employ inbreeding to get or maintain a phenotype they like for any number of reasons. Animals that successfully "breed true" maintain the phenotype of interest. Inbreeding over generations to enhance this will both decrease genetic diversity and also increase the rates of heritable diseases. The Genetic equations used in plant production to determine the percentage of genetic purity were used to determine at what generation the bobtail boxer was genetically pure - enabling it to be registered as a pure breed at the 4th generation. What is the Genetic strength of the single Corgi bred in to gain the bobtail gene? Many Australian bobtails are now around 16 generations away from the single cross done some two and a half decades ago. A 16 generation pedigree contains , dogs odd, of which the corgi contributes as one of the , dogs within that 16 generations the remaining , are boxers from the the original founding breeds which were crossed to create the breed. General Facts and Information regarding Bobtail Boxers. All these averages are calculated over a lifetime of breedings. The gene used to create Bobtail Boxers does not breed true, meaning even if both the sire and dam are Heterozygous Bobtails there will still be a percentage of long tailed puppies in a litter. The Lethal Bobtail gene - Studies have established that the Homozygous Bobtail is a lethal condition. When two Heterozygous Bobtails are bred together the resulting Homozygous puppies are never born, they die and are then reabsorbed early during the dams' pregnancy. Gene Identification - there is a DNA test that identifies if the bobtail gene is present, or if a dog has been docked. Bobtail - born with a short tail Heterozygous - Single dose gene.

Is Your American Bulldog Teething? Teething is a process where puppies acquire their first teeth and try these newly acquired baby fangs on anything they could gnaw on. So, to help you out with this, we have prepared several points that you could use to stop your house from looking like it has been ravaged by a hurricane — with teeth. American bulldog puppies usually get all their 28 baby teeth when they reach 8 weeks. By this time, without proper supervision, it may have already massacred your slippers and furniture. This phenomenon occurs because of the discomfort that teething brings and boredom if attention is inadequately provided. What you, the owner, should do is to supplement this teething activity rather than prevent it. Try directing it in positive ways by utilizing toys for your puppies. Toy ropes, tires and other chewables will suffice. Your American bulldog will certainly have its fill. However, be wary of some products that may put your puppies in harm. Try consulting a local veterinarian about safe chewable products for your puppies. Speaking of the vet, you should also make some visits, so as to have some professional monitoring during this crucial phase. If you have kids in your household, warn them of the dangers of playing with your American bulldog in its teething stage. Again, have your kids use toys to play with it. Doing so will also allow your kids to help train your puppies themselves and, at the same time, make a connection with them. It is also recommended to use different kinds of playful activities to divert your American Bulldogs teething phase. This high pitched sound is also produced by its friendly litterbox puppies that experience pain. Last but not the least, you should control the territories your puppies or American bulldog can go to. To keep it away from carpeted areas and furniture, try using a crate to limit its movement. Make sure that the crate is also quite resilient to puppy teeth. Suck it up, endure and try to enjoy this phase with your dog. It certainly would like to enjoy it with you. Good luck. The chewing and gnawing behaviours associated with teething often become difficult for owners. No one wants to see their beloved pet in pain, nor do they want that pet to chew on everything in sight. There are several tricks that will help owners treat their English bulldog's teething behaviour. Teething behaviours last until adult teeth fully grow in, which is typically about 1 year of age. This can be dangerous, if they find toxic things, or damaging, if they chew on furniture, unless their owners give their puppies alternatives. They may also try to nip at hands and feet. English bulldogs, like other puppies, experience teething as they grow, and adult teeth begin to come in. During teething, these puppies are likely to gnaw and chew at anything. Sometimes bleeding may occur around the gums, but is not a problem unless bleeding doesn't stop or seems excessive. When it doubt, consult a veterinarian. Homemade frozen treats can include making chicken soup and freezing it into ice cubes, soaking carrots in water and freezing them and soaking a clean rag and freezing it. English bulldogs experience pain, especially in the gums, while they are teething. Giving puppies frozen treats helps direct chewing behaviours to something productive and the ice helps soothes gum pain. Give your English bulldog a Kong toy filled with peanut butter or cheese to allow him to gnaw safely in the crate. Teach puppies to recognise the command "toy" by saying toy every time you present the puppy with a chew toy. When nipping begins, tuck away hands and say, "Toy," which teaches puppies to go to their toys for chewing, nipping and playing. Our bulldog puppy started losing his baby teeth around the four-month mark. He would bite our hands a lot during this time seeking relief. The same signs they exhibited when their baby teeth came in will likely be exhibited now, including drooling, chewing, pawing at their muzzle and so forth. Occasionally yes. For example, the baby tooth could force the adult tooth to grow in out of alignment with the other teeth. A misaligned tooth can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for your bulldog as an adult, especially when eating, and so you should have it extracted as soon as possible by your vet. The easiest way to know this is simply to know exactly when they were born and then count forward week by week to approximate what teething phase they should be in. Also, keep in mind the symptoms and outward signs that we described above. Helpful Tips to Get your Bulldog Puppy Through All their Teething Phases To help bulldog puppies stay as comfortable as possible and help you sleep at night , here are a few tips that you can use to reduce their discomfort during teething. Make chicken or beef broth ice cubes. The flavor will attract them to eat and the cold will soothe their sore mouth Gently rub their gums with your finger while they sit on your lap. This is comforting and soothing at the same time, but beware; those baby teeth can be pretty sharp! A crate might be the answer also. See below. Just the same as with human babies there are plenty of products that you can purchase for your bulldog puppy that can help them get through their teething phases. Some are better than others so ask for recommendations from your veterinarian and read online reviews before purchasing so that you and your bulldog pup get the best, most soothing results. Also keep in mind that there are some things you can make yourself that we already mentioned, like flavored ice cubes, that will work just as well and save you the cost of whichever toy you might buy. The fact is that, during teething, your bulldog pup will want to chew on everything and that can cause problems for both you and your puppy. On the other hand, if you have the luxury of staying home with them through their teething phases then crating them might not be necessary. Some people like to crate their dogs however so the choice to crate or not to crate is strictly up to you and your particular feeling about crating. Within a few weeks, your bulldog will get through both baby teeth teething and adult teeth teething, most likely with only a few days where they are really in pain. If you do that, the memories of all that pain and anxiety will soon be forgotten. We hope you liked this article and that it answered all of your questions about bulldog puppy teething. If you have more questions or would like to leave a comment please do so in the space provided, and best of luck with your new bulldog puppy! Pin29 30 Shares Just like human babies do, French Bulldog puppies will also teethe. I have often compared owning a puppy to having a baby. You have the tantrums, poop, pee, separation anxiety, and more… and that includes having to deal with them going through the French Bulldog puppy teething stages. I remember when we got Claude. During his puppy months I was frequently finding little teeth on the carpet. And, we also had the chewing. In this guide I am going to explain why French Bulldogs teethe, what age it happens and starts, what to expect, how you can stop them chewing your prized possessions, how to help them, and when it stops. But when exactly does teething start and stop? French Bulldog baby teeth start to grow through at the same time their eyes begin to open. Canine teeth at which point they can start on solid foods. Pre-molars stop coming through after about 6 weeks. There will be 28 baby teeth in total and they should fully stop growing through at around 8 weeks of age which is the minimum age you can take a puppy home. They will start to fall out, being pushed out by the adult ones. When do French Bulldogs lose their baby teeth? When do French Bulldogs start teething? French Bulldog puppies will start to teeth at around 3 months of age. They then start to lose their baby and milk teeth which will start to fall out, being pushed out by the adult teeth. The 28 milk teeth will eventually be replaced by 42 adult teeth. French Bulldog puppies stop teething — age 7 to 8 months Want to know when do French Bulldog puppies stop teething? French Bulldog puppies will stop teething at about 7 to 8 months of age. It can sometimes be shorter or longer, but by this stage all their milk teeth should be replaced by adult teeth. How long do French Bulldogs teethe for — between 20 and 24 weeks The entire Frenchie teething process from start to finish will take longer than you might expect. In most cases, they will have stopped teething after 24 weeks, but it can end as early as 20 weeks from the start of the process. To conclude, adult teeth do take longer to grow in than milk baby teeth. The molars are particularly prone to taking longer to push through. However, by around 8 months of age, your French Bulldog puppy should have stopped teething completely and will now be the proud owner of 42 strong and health adult teeth. I have heard of some puppies finishing teething at 4 months, but this is very unusual. They chew because it helps them to relieve the pain in their teeth and gums. Small loose milk teeth: you might find cute little baby teeth stuck in toys or on the floor. These have now made way for the adult teeth to grow through. Perhaps you could be the tooth fairy, and leave a treat under their bed? Blood spots on toys: you might also see small spots of blood left on the toys or furniture they have chewed. Excessive drooling: many Frenchie puppies will also drool when they are teething. If your dog continues to drool after the teething age, it could be the sign of a health problem. French Bulldogs teething ears is common. It happens because they are young so need the calcium in other areas of their developing body, including new teeth. This can make their ears behave very erratically, but they should stand up in the end. Red and inflamed gums: the gums can swell and look angry. This is particularly true once the milk teeth have gone, as the adult teeth will be fighting to push through. Once they do, expect the blood spots. Short attention spans: your Frenchie puppy will be distracted and possibly irritable. Try to soothe them, pay them lots of attention, and use toys to keep them active. Mild fever: just like human babies, puppies can also suffer from mild fevers when teething. The adult tooth will grow through next to the baby tooth and can actually cause an abscess. If it does, consult with your vet. Recommended French Bulldog teething toys One of the best ways you can help your French Bulldog puppy when teething is to give him more toys to play with. It needs to be something tough and rugged to cope with those sharp little teeth and sore gums. Frenchie puppies will chew when teething and need plenty of toys! How stop your puppy chewing in the teething stage When the baby teeth of your Frenchie start to fall out, your puppy will go on a chewing frenzy. It was such a problem with Claude that I had to buy a shoe rack to sit up on a work surface, as any shoes on the floor were fair game for him to destroy. The reason French Bulldog puppies chew when teething is because it helps to relieve the pain they are feeling as the new adult teeth grow through. Just like babies, they want to chew on stuff. You can actually buy a range of teething toys which you can see featured elsewhere on my blog. Handy Hint: Read this guide on how to stop a Frenchie from chewing. It contains 8 tips in more detail which we used with Claude. What you need to do is distract them, give them something else to chew on, or make steps to remove stuff from their reach that they can cause the most damage to. Here are my tips on how to stop your French Bulldog puppy chewing the items you value the most. You can be better off… Puppy proofing your home: just like you would place stair gates in your home with a baby, you can take similar methods with a puppy. The simplest way to do this is by taking anything out of their line of sight they are going to be inclined to chew. Give them frozen carrots or ice cubes: weird I know, but some puppies love to chew on cold frozen items as it will relieve the teething pain. There are also some fruits you can freeze and let them chew on. See my list of fruits Frenchies can eat. Keep the puppy well exercised: dogs that have energy will chew more. To reduce the amount of teething chewing, take your puppy for a couple of walks a day so he can spend some of that energy. Keep the puppy entertained: a bored dog is a chewing dog. During the Frenchie teething stage, play with you pup and keep him distracted from your valuables! We soon stopped doing that when we read how dangerous this can be. The rawhide can cause internal blockages and choke them. The bottom line is; puppies can do a huge amount of damage when teething. Our dining room table legs still have the scars to prove it! You can see what I mean in the photo below. This was what Claude did: You can see the damage caused when Claude was teething. He used to love chewing our dining room table! The positive thing is, as soon as French Bulldog puppies stop teething, a lot of this chewing still stop. Warning: If your French Bulldog continues to chew after the teething stage, it could be the sign of a nutritional problem or even stress. Ailments such as worms and upset stomachs can also lead to this behavioural trait. Related questions Here are a few more questions relating to teeth which will help you during the different stages, and once the adult teeth have grown through. The dental health of your Frenchie is important. This breed can be prone to a variety of health problems , with dental issues being quite near the top of the list. They can develop oral diseases, and at the bare minimum I recommend an annual teeth cleaning visit to the vets. In addition to the once a year cleaning, you can also buy dog-friendly toothpaste and tooth brushes, plus use dental chews to help their teeth stay healthy. How many teeth do French Bulldogs have? French Bulldog puppies have 28 milk teeth which will be lost in the teething stage ages. Once the milk teeth have fallen out, Frenchies will grow 42 adult teeth in their place. What other owners say I am the members on a few Frenchie Facebook groups, and the topic of teething comes up a lot! Here are some questions people have asked, with some of the best responses underneath. We have a toy Kong that he has no interest in, and a Nylabone and some soft toys that he enjoys, but he really wants to chew on fingers, hands and toes mostly. What have others used that helped with the biting and teething phase? Another idea is to soak a wash cloth in broth or just plain water and then freeze it for them. With the Kong toy, you should really put some food in the middle of it too — peanut butter xylitol free is great for this. We also bought special teething treats with clove oil in and puppy teething gel. And I believe ice cubes went down well too. He is 7 months old and is teething like mad. They just love to chew anything and everything. My boy teethed until 7 months. He will be a year old in July and has one more back tooth poking through finally. But it could also be secondary teething. The jaw is growing and the teeth are moving into their final place. With my dogs they tend to want to chew on harder things than when the puppy teeth fell out and new ones broke through. But she constantly bites me, but not other people. Any help would be appreciated! They should never be allowed to put their mouth on you. If allowed to do it, after 3 times it is a habit and much harder to break and they are very stubborn but also very smart and so darn cute. Lots of chew toys. They do learn biting from siblings. Give her time. They are stubborn little monsters at time. He did chew though. We found blood spots, loose teeth, and as you can see from the photo had some damage to deal with! At this time of their dental development, your Frenchie puppy will need your love and support, plenty of chewable toys, patience, and understanding. Losing your temper with a puppy that has chewed something to help reduce his pain will lead to a stressed and fearful dog. This includes regular health checks and a good diet. By: Author Jennifer Seegmiller If you have found yourself the proud new owner or a Bulldog puppy or you have had your pup for a while but are wanting to be sure you are caring for it properly you have come to the right place. Dental hygiene is a very important aspect of care for your spunky, energetic Bulldog! Do Bulldog Have Bad Teeth? Bulldogs generally have more dental problems than other breeds. A build-up of tartar and plaque can cause swollen gums gingivitis. If left untreated this will start to cause tooth decay and infection. It is important to employ proper dental care for your Bulldog starting at a young age. What are some common Bulldog Teeth Problems? If your dog has severe enough dental disease it can cause tooth decay, the gums to recede and the teeth to start falling out. Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. We only recommend high-quality products that are used and recommended by real owners. If you use these links to buy something we earn a small commission. You need to take steps right away to fix the problem and get their teeth in healthy working order. Not only is this painful for your Bulldog it can also have an impact on his heart and other organs. We talk more about how to clean your Bulldog teeth below. Bulldog Teeth Falling Out If your Bulldog puppy is losing its teeth there is no need to worry, but if your Bulldog is older than 1 year and losing teeth this can be cause for major concern! If you have a Bulldog rescue that has been poorly taken care of chances are it may have a few missing teeth. That way you only have to put them under general anesthesia once. Another common cause for chattering teeth is periodontal disease. This is a painful condition where the gums become inflamed and bacteria eventually deteriorates the teeth, bones, and tissue. Some dogs may shake, or chatter their teeth when they are feeling anxiety or stress. This might be a coping mechanism for your dog when it is in a new situation or around new people. If your Bulldog is really high energy and gets over-excited whenever he knows there is a treat coming or they see you get out their favorite toy this could induce the teeth chattering or grinding. If your Bulldog is not normally anxious and this is the first time you have noticed chattering teeth then it may be time for a visit with your vet. This could be due to injury or a more serious dental problem. You will want to be very observant of when your dog is doing it. The context could give you some better clues as to why. Bulldog Broken Tooth Broken teeth can be a common occurrence and can be very uncomfortable for your Bulldog. If your Bulldog has had any kind of impact to their mouth, either from being hit by something or from running into something it could cause a broken or chipped tooth. They could also break a tooth by chewing on something too hard. This is why I always tell my student to be careful about what they allow their dogs to chew on. Signs your Bulldog has a chipped or cracked tooth. Eating on one side of his mouth. Not eating hard food. Not chewing on his favorite chew toys. Swelling in his face or gums. Excessive drooling. Pawing or itching as his face or mouth. Not wanting or letting you touch his face. Broken or chipped teeth can cause your Bulldog serious pain and problems with an infection later on. The severity of the broken or chipped tooth will dictate the course of treatment. Your vet will do an assessment and suggest a course of action. If it is a surface chip the tooth should be able to be repaired fairly easily. If the root is exposed then your Bulldog will likely need a root canal. Your vet will need to sedate your dog in order to do this safely. Be sure to watch out for nipping and biting that your Bulldog will surely want to do. Reward your dog with praise and a small treat when it lets you do this process with ease. Provide your Bulldog with lots of chew toys, affiliate link not only will this help you keep them from chewing on undesired things in your house, but it will also help them keep their teeth clean by the scraping motion that they do as they chew. Using a pet toothbrush like this as well as a good dog toothpaste is important. Use a dental powder cleanser like this one on Amazon affiliate link. You just add it to their water and you are done! Make a consistent effort. Taking care of oral hygiene once and a while will not be good enough for your lovable Bulldog companion. If the plaque and tartar have built up to a degree that you are not able to remove it yourself by brushing, you may need to take your dog to the vet for a professional cleaning. If professional cleaning is necessary, your vet will need to give your Bulldog general anesthesia for the procedure so that they can gain easy access to their mouth without the worry of being bitten or having your pup resist. This will also allow them to see if there are any teeth that are loose or rotting and may need to be removed. You will want to be sure to keep a good oral hygiene routine at home afterward to prevent the plaque from returning. If your Bulldog needs a dental cleaning, this article from the Spruce Pets can help you prepare for and understand what that process entails. Do Bulldogs Have Good Teeth? Bulldogs can have good and healthy teeth if they are well taken care of. Brushing them daily is important. Warning: If your Bulldog is prone to biting or is easily startled seek guidance from your vet or a professional dog trainer before following these steps. You will be looking to make sure that their teeth are white and if there is any brown, grey, or black buildup on their teeth how bad it is and where it is. When you look at their gums you are wanting to see light pink. If you see any darker pink coloring or red tint it can be an indication of gum disease and you will want to schedule a visit with your vet. Bulldog puppies are born with no teeth but gain 28 baby teeth deciduous teeth by weeks of age. Adult Bulldog will have a total of 42 teeth including twelve incisors for grasping , four canines for tearing , sixteen premolars, and 8 molars for grinding. Knowing more about their expected development can help ease some worries and concerns we might have. Just like their human counterparts around pre-school age, we start losing our baby teeth, our puppies are going to lose their teeth and grow adult ones as well. So to help you with this here is a detailed timeline of what you can expect while your puppy is teething. Please remember that every dog is different so even though this is a good estimate your dog may not follow it exactly. Newborn: Your puppy will be born with what looks like no teeth at all, but when he reaches 2 to 4 weeks old at the same time his eyes start to open his little baby teeth will start popping through. Around weeks old as you have recently brought your puppy home and are getting to know them better he will start to lose his baby teeth. It usually starts with the incisors and you will probably notice little rice-sized doggy teeth falling out everywhere. By 5 months old your puppy will have lost most of their baby teeth and by 6 months old they will have lost all their baby teeth and grown in all their adult teeth. As your puppy grows you should get your Bulldog used to you gently placing your hand around his mouth and gums. This is the start of socializing your dog and will be helpful to prepare them for getting their teeth brushed and clean. Even though it may be short it can be hard to make it through the puppy teething stage. Helping them focus their teething troubles on chewing and biting appropriate things rather than your furniture or fingers is part of their puppy training. You can tell your puppy might be having teething pain or discomfort if you notice them whining a lot see this article 7 Reasons Why Your Bulldog Whines What to Do to rule out other reasons for their whining , biting and chewing on everything, lots of drooling, and of course, the obvious losing teeth and swollen or tender gums. The best thing you can do is to offer your puppy a variety of puppy teething toys. Toys that offer different textures, different pressures, or different tastes will help your puppy have variety. An easy way to do this is to get a clean cloth a little wet and freeze it. A rope toy could also work well for this. Safety Tip: Puppy teeth are super sharp! Be sure to monitor your puppy when chewing and take away any toys or items that start to become shredded or break apart. It would be dangerous for your puppy to swallow any small pieces. Try putting a mixture of peanut butter and soft puppy food in the middle and freezing it. Your puppy will love it! This toy is great for teething. Puppies love the texture of the little rubber nubs against their gums. He really loves these!

This decision is not made lightly by us or by you. There is no changing your mind after committing to your puppy. Typically the day comes when the litter is ready to go. Sometimes people are not ready or the color they prefer is not available. By having made the effort to meet me this puts you in a way to the front of the line. If you are a good communicator you can then be first to choose a pup from the next litter. We are telling other buyers from this point that the puppy you chose is not available. In rare cases a person will need to decide to change gender due to temperament incompatibility with another dog and then the deposit could be transferable upon my choosing. Come visit our Puppy Palace in person by appointment. Screenshot your favorite puppy and text us for more info. Put a deposit and pick up within the week or take your baby home same day. If you are out of state, we can help you acquire everything you need to fly home with your new puppy. Breeding Program We are passionate about temperament and health. We socialize our puppies for up to 16 weeks. Pups are fully vaccinated when leaving. We sleep with them. Pups are socialized in this same way. The parents of the puppies are our like our children. How to buy a puppy Call us on the phone first .Learn More A french bulldog puppy at 10 days old. Breeding Program We are passionate about providing the consumer with a dog that is bred with integrity for health and beauty. Marika Zoll is a Ph. Simply talking to her you will learn what to watch out for. We sleep with them and eat with them. Well, nearly. The point is that we are not just Breeding dogs. We had the dogs first and then we fell in love with the breed. Is it part English Bulldog, or Pug or some Terrier? Little is noted in the development of its history no one knows exactly how the French bulldog came into being because very poor records were kept we know we know the most basic facts such as that there were Normandy immigrants coming from France to England that brought these dogs with them around the s. Those immigrants were lace workers that had been living in the farming communities of northern friends which is where they were a rich initially discovered but when those lace workers move to France they brought the dogs with them and had a tremendous reception of the French people because of their petite size versus other extremely strong almost big dog presents that is easily social and loyal with everybody and never disliking anyone. Variance in weight can be from pounds! This dog is active in sports which I might compare to a quarter horse. They envy a walk if possible 10 times a day, but that walk will only be bigger us for maybe 5 to 10 minutes. This difference determine the difference in pricing that you will see regardless of optimal specification they always weigh heavier on the scale than that they look because their bone structure is dense for their size. There about like years that stand to attention have become their trademark and their faces are somewhere between a pug and an English bulldog. The French bulldog can wait any were literally from 15 to 40 pounds but the breed average is from 22 to 28 pounds and standing about 1 foot tall. A fun aspect of the breed is a tremendous variation in color unlike other breeds that are more consistent. This Breed spends everything from white to Brindle to fun with spots and without and in varying shades in almost every color of the rainbow. Fad colors are including chocolate black and blue and tricolor and these have been frowned upon for years by classical breeders and registries and French Bulldogs LA clubs of America due to the in breeding that was necessary to create these colors. Overtime though we hope that because of ethics and patients that this fact will change. Brindle is the AKC definition of black but that color also varies as much is a black coffee to coffee with cream and should always include sprinkles of golden hairs. Note that eyes are meant to be dark brown and variations of this are due to fad colors which are most often reproduced in the past with in line breeding that exacerbates recessive traits and can reproduce like colored eyes again frowned upon by classical tradition traditional breeders but something that we hope to see changing in this near future. This means exactly that, it will not work for you but rather be a great companion happy to sit all day at your feet or on your lap. It is still small enough to be carried around or brought on board a plane. It loves walks albeit short ones and is sensitive to the heat so in the summertime I walk them only at night or early mornings. They cannot swim as easily as other breeds and need to be worked with in the beginning with the lifejacket as a puppy so that it can learn to swim. On occasion, some may howl like a coyote or periodically an actual true bark. But these are more rare instances. They would be a fun addition to any household, lighting up the room with their smile. Yes, they seem to smile! They are very social with all people never acting skittish, in fact the first to greet you. They behave well off the leash and it would be a common sight to see an owner walking a busy street with their dog freely at their side for they are very obedient and easy to train. They often snore though, so know this trait is common. Many doggy daycares will tell you the French bulldog is the boss dog of the pack. This may often be so but more and more French bulldogs are submissive. In fact, I, as a breeder, am breeding for this quality so as never to have a dog that you have to worry about fighting with another dog. Note that French Bulldogs do not drool unless extremely emotional and perhaps there is a dog in heat nearby otherwise primarily a dry mouth. What is a Bulldog? A Bulldog is of course nothing other than a Bulldog, but if you have not seen a Bulldog or a picture of one you may be surprised. People often confuse Bulldogs with other «Bull» breeds, particularly boxers, pit-bulls or bull terriers. The Bulldog is very distinct canine with a rich heritage that surpasses most other known breeds of dog. The Bulldog is a squat, thickset dog, with a large blocky head, short foreface and turned up jaw. If you have decided to get a small sleek-haired dog, strong and brawny, with self-respect and kindness in relation to people and especially to children, intellectual so, that it does not demand special training you will not be mistaken if will choose the French bulldog. If the English bulldog is a symbol of calmness and confidence of, the American bulldog is the furious security guard the French bulldog is a dog companion, cheerful, tender and surprisingly clever! The small, amusing, devoted friend, thus the brawny robust fellow in whom blood fighter ancestors and during the moment of fight or protection of the owner flows, quite often proves brightly enough. On the Native land of the French bulldog in France almost in all families live the French bulldogs. Solid addition and extraordinary appearance involves people of different age and each person wishes to have the reliable cheerful friend to the French bulldog. Emblem of last largest exhibition in France — Paris in became certainly the French bulldog! Our dogs all over in our house and grow with full of love! All of my family has raised french Bulldogs and still does. Many Familes all over the World have one or two of our pups,and are very happy. Our dogs the award many medals and diplomas. The line of blood of champions guarantees high quality of my puppies and long life a life more than years. All of our puppies have a vaccinations of 2 -3 Parvos distemper 1 Leptospirois 1 -2 hepatitis and also 2 vaccinations for skin problem before they reach their new owners. The puppies are dewormed 21 days after birth, and than dewormed again before first and second vaccination. If you will buy the puppy from us kennel that to you it will not be necessary to spend cent for the veterinary doctor, because all my puppies healthy, have strong and health heart, sharp mind, kind appeasable character. Our frenchie very well get on with cats, dogs of any breeds and small children. All our puppies come with AKC registration papers , microchip , shot record vaccinations and 3 times dewormed , health quarantee for one year for any genetic problem, list of recommendations, sample of the food and crate for free! Pictures of each puppy we post on web. California hot state, we do not have winter here, lots of viruses. If you looking to buy healthy puppy — call us. If you want to buy 8 weeks old puppy and take a chance — call somebody else! The earliest we let our puppies go to the new home weeks old 6 weeks old first shot 8 weeks old second shot 12 weeks old third shot 16 weeks old forth shot Puppy Vaccination Schedule Thank you for your understanding! Discover the art of nurturing your French Bulldog, whether a puppy or an adult, through our expert guidance. With an impressive 32 years of experience as French Bulldog specialists, we are uniquely positioned to provide invaluable insights. Our primary goal is to extend our assistance to you, irrespective of your decision to acquire a puppy from an alternative source. As accomplished veterinarians specializing in French and English Bulldogs, our knowledge spans three decades. We focus exclusively on these breeds, surpassing even the knowledge of general veterinarians. This specialization is vital as traditional veterinarians often cater to a diverse array of animals, which may hinder their ability to provide tailored guidance for a single breed. Numerous individuals remain unaware of optimal feeding practices for their Frenchies or English Bulldogs, both before and after the six-month mark. The intricacies of vitamin supplementation, appropriate shampoos, bathing techniques, and proper walking routines are often overlooked.

We have answers. The cost of your new German Shepherd for sale in Dallas will depend on several factors, including coat color white German Shepherd puppies Dallas , pedigree, coat type, breeder experience and more. Fortunately, our network offers nearly unlimited options when it comes to finding the right German Shepherd puppies Dallas TX. Will I connect exclusively with local German Shepherd breeders Dallas? Are there Dallas German Shepherd puppies for sale near me right now? With the size and scope of our network, odds are pretty darn good that your dream German Shepherd puppy is already out there waiting for you. To begin your search on the right paw, all you need to do is begin MatchMaker below. Not a chance. Puppy mill dogs can often cost owners a small fortune in extra vet bills.There are more types of German Shepherds than you think, and our goal is to match every family with the perfect puppy. We developed MatchMaker to account for all of these preferences including coat color and type , making sure that our customers are always connected with the breeders and businesses most likely to help you meet your dream dog. Our dogs are hand picked from top German breeders and are from world class West German bloodlines. We are conveniently located 40 miles from Ft. Worth and approximately one hour from Dallas TX. We are proud of our Kaiser facility and all of our outstanding dogs. Each of them is a special part of our family. It takes a great deal of experience, education, and knowledge about the breed to successfully produce world class German Shepherds. My husband Paul and I work together to ensure the highest breed standards are met. Our goal is to continue to not only meet those standards but to improve the breed. They are hand picked from top German breeders and are imported. They are from top West German bloodlines. Selective breeding program to produce superior offspring. We produce a limited number of litters each year in order to personally assure the very best care possible. Healthy puppies and adult dogs is a top priority to us. Our adult dogs have been DNA tested for degenerative myelopathy. Their hips and elbows have been certified as normal. We do a great amount of education with our new puppy owners regarding GSD growth and development, health maintenance, the importance of ongoing socialization and many other important topics about the GSD breed. We make it a practice to stay in touch with our puppy owners for ongoing education and support. We love to see our pups grow into amazing adult dogs as part of a loving family home! We also have a professional trainer available. She has worked with many of our puppies and their new families with outstanding results. She is warm, patient and loves what she does. She is careful and has a loving touch for her puppies; each one captures her heart. She has been extremely helpful to us when we have not been certain about next steps for our pup. Kaiser is not a puppy factory, but a caring, loving, thoughtful, and well read about the German Shepherd breed. So grateful for Terri and Kaiser pups!

Birthday Cards with Dogs Birthday cards with dogs This collection contains happy birthday images and funny cards with different dogs and cute puppies, singing, wishing and saying inspirational words and greetings on bday. E-ards with what breeds of dogs are presented in the collection? These are the most popular - german shepherd and bulldog, chihuahua, corgi, dachshund, golden retriever, pit bull, pug, yorkie, schnauzer, airedale, akita, alsatian, australian shepherd, basset hound, beagle, bernese mountain dog, bichon frise, black labrador, cocker spaniel, goldendoodle, black poodle, jack russell, border collie, boxer dog, british bulldog, bull terrier, bullmastiff, chow chow, doberman, frenchie, fox red labrador, english springer spaniel, dalmatian, golden doodle, greyhound, havanese, husky, shih tzus, pekingese, pomeranian, shar pei, rottweiler, sheltie, shiba inu, siberian husky, st bernard, standard poodle, west highland terrier, irish setter, italian greyhound, lurcher, maltese, muttley, newfoundland, sheepdog, wiener dog, white poodle. You can download free any dog themed e-card and animated gif pic for dogs lover with fun words from them to owner, send it to mobile and share it on popular networks, Facebook and WhatsApp. Their calm, confident demeanor paired with their recognizable looks makes them wonderful family pets and undeniably cool sidekicks. One even lives in The White House , so you know they're a big deal. Whether you're celebrating National German Shepherd Day May 10 or just need a pick-me-up with some smiling pups , you've come to the right place! Luna the Longhaired German Shepherd Luna's long mane looks absolutely stunning against the rocks. Plus, with a smile like that, this pup can steal anyone's heart. Who doesn't want to be lounging by the pool with a cup of coffee and getting some online shopping, er, work done? Just look at her stunning black coat and long tongue! Duke Enjoying a Pupsicle This German shepherd knows how to do summer right with a delicious homemade dog popsicle. Save some for us! Krut the Adventure Doggo What's more relaxing than hiking with your dog next to a beautiful waterfall? Krut's Instagram page is full of gorgeous pictures of his mountain adventures that have us itching for a weekend camping trip. Cliff's Boop-able Nose Now this is a snoot we need to boop! Cliff's Instagram always shows the smiling pup on tons of outdoor adventures. No wonder he's one of the happiest German shepherds we've ever seen! Koa's Beach Day This has everything you need in a cute German shepherd picture: a gorgeous background, floppy ears, and an adorably fluffy puppy with her tongue out. What more can you ask for? After only a few short minutes of brushing , it's like you have enough fur for a whole new dog! German shepherds have thick, double layered coats that are prone to shedding , so it's even more important for their owners to keep a regular grooming routine. You may just need to book an afternoon for the task. Sebastian the Birthday Boy Time to light the candles! Sebastian's first birthday bash included a matching bandana , banner, and birthday hat, as well as some adorable custom cookies. All he needs left for his big day is a dog-approved birthday cake. Flash's Floppy Ears German shepherds are known for their signature perked-up ears. But in their first few months, German shepherd puppies sport floppy ears until around the time they finish teething. So German shepherd puppy owners: take all the photos with those adorable floppy ears while you still can! But Odin here is clearly proud to be a German shepherd K.And based on his Instagram posts, this good boy gets the job done right. These good boys are clearly enjoying their day outside at the park and we couldn't be happier for them. Ace the German Shepherd Service Dog German shepherds are incredibly smart, making them wonderful service animals! When your job includes going to Disney, how could you not look as happy as this guy? Apollo Soaking up the Sun Apollo might be the coolest dog we've ever seen. From the effortlessly stylish sunglasses all the way down to his customized shoes, we know this good boy is living his best life. Was this page helpful? He is everything that we could have hoped for in a dog. He goes to training twice a week, one night for obedience training, and the other is for group protection training. He excels in every way, his bite is so strong and well controlled. He loves to do the agility course, go swimming in the pond, and run around with the other dogs. He loves playing with our 1 year old nephew, he'll just follow him around the house for hours. Seau keeps us busy to say the least. Our lb lap dog lol. It's a great picture and I thought you'd like to see it. Hope you're having a good holiday break and we'll certainly plan to join you on some of the Milford walks this year. She is still an amazing dog, definitely an ambassador for the breed, she is very well trained, laid back and everyone who meets her falls in love with her. She is just under lbs and is a plush coat. Her and my son are practically inseparable, they do everything together. She even plays with him at the parks on all the different playscapes and goes down the slides with him as well as the other children at the park. When we go for walks in the park I take her off leash and she just sticks around or fetches the ball when I throw it, if she is not busy playing with Jake. See that you are still breeding exceptional puppies with awesome temperaments, hats off to you for saving this wonderful breed. I still send people your way when they stop and ask where I got her from and they are amazed at how well behaved she is, I tell them I would not go anywhere else for a German Shepherd. Thanks for this great dog! Lily thought it would be a good time to say hi since she is now an older more mature girl. I can't believe she is already 1 year old. The kids sang happy birthday to her all day long really.Lily went to the pet store this afternoon to pick out her birthday gift. The pictures show her with her kids and of course her new toy she pick out. She passed her CGC test and we recently got her a therapy dog in training vest. She is enjoying going to stores and the library. She went to my family reunion yesterday and was such a little lady. She had perfect manners. I was so proud of her. Lily and I continue to take advanced obedience classes with Judy and Mona. I still think the training is more for me because Lily seems to know what she is doing more than me most of the time. Lily has found a love for jumping hurdles and anything else that looks like it should be jumped. She also loves walking on benches, balance beams and walls. Lily also walked in the Fourth of the July Parade. She seems to love being in the parades. Thank you so much for such an awesome dog. She is just so amazing and beautiful. We could not picture our lives without her. I've been looking at your web site, they all have same features! We only have Nikko now, Kotta was 12 has passed, so he needs a friend, but we would like to wait for same father he has, so it looks like late summer early fall. Kellie James Nikko is Mr. He is growing into such a handsome boy these days. At his last vet visit 7 months he weighed in at 82 pounds! Here are two pictures of him so you can see how big he has gotten. Thanks again for such a wonderful boy! He passed both tests with flying colors in September. Thank you again for your breeding ethics and for always being there for us when we have a question! Harlow from Burgundy's H litter, is the most magnificent German Shepherd we could have ever hoped for! We so appreciate your breeding ethics and the continued support and education you offer. I can't imagine getting a German Shepherd from any other breeder! My husband and I are hoping that Harlow will be able to become part of the Reading To Rover program in which he goes to libraries and helps struggling young readers become successful and confident readers. Harlow is loving the snow. Be sure to check out his very own YouTube sledding video which we will be posting this week! He has garnered a fan club right in the neighborhood! Harlow is very excited to be a big brother to Burgundy's 9 puppies! He is especially excited we are getting another Hanabrit GSD next year, ! Also, my parents would like to know if you have any litters planned soon. They absolutely adore Ruger and I think they are looking into getting another one. Thanks again. Doing so well, sleeping about 5 hours thru the night. She is so smart, knows her name and comes when called. She wants to play with Otis all the time, he is still getting used to all her energy.She loves my nephew, he is 3 and they were a riot together. I will send more pictures soon! Thanks for the best puppy ever. See you soon. Wolfie had his last full class today and graduates on Tuesday, June .Then he starts his intermediate class on July .He's doing wonderfully and I don't think I could love him more than I already do. Bo and Ozzy are doing great. They are having fun living on the lake swimming and chasing swans. Bo left is now lbs mostly head and will be 2yrs on May 8th, and his side kick Ozzy is lbs turning 3 July 3rd. They have both received their CGC certification. We are working towards Bo's TDI. Everyday is definitely action packed and full of laughs and love. See you soon! Both the children and parents thoroughly enjoyed her. Sheba loves to go to work and all the attention she gets doing it. Thanks for everything you do, you are a great breeder and Hagen is a great dog. Bear loved it! I love the way he smiles when he is having fun! He and I have taken up the sport of mushing. In the warm months he pulls me around on a scooter dry land mushing. We just got a Canadian Kicksled and Sam is learning how to pull in the snow. He loves this new "job"! After a good run he is so relaxed and happy. He thinks that this mushing business is much better than walking with "slow poke master". Samson wants to know if anyone else might like to join him in his newfound sport. Any other "wanna be" mushers like us? He is doing really well and is growing like a weed. He has become a great member of the family, smart as a whip, and very intuitive. Once it gets a little warmer well send some more pictures and send them. My family, dad, loves him. He is such a sweetie. We are doing a good job at potty training. There have been a couple accidents but truly he hasn't had many considering how quickly he's picking it up. He sure is getting heavy that's for sure. The kids weighed him the other day and he was 26 lbs before the weekend. So, we go to Griffith's for a round of shot's plus a poop sample on Thursday and I will let you know exactly how much he weighs. He's going to be a big boy that's all I have to say! He sleeps in the bathroom of our bedroom because of the tile. It's cooler for him. He sleeps through the night and get's me up around depending on our bedtime the night before. He and Zeus get along really well. Actually, Zeus is learning some of Max's tendencies to bark when he hears something. That is something Zeus never did. He is a very laid back dog. In fact, Max has picked that laid back attitude from Zeus. My parent's thought he would be ripping and roaring around but honestly he doesn't, he lays around. Don't get me wrong, they do get in a zoom zoom moment and rip and roar but after they're down for the count. He seems to be laid back more from Zeus being the same. She is a wonderful part of our family. We finally settled on the name Shasta for Ms. Taking her for walks on the leash and she's doing great. Both Ringo and Gracie love playing with her and Ringo rolls over on his back and lets her bite him. Might try her in the pond tomorrow. She always has her front paws in the water bowl so I'm sure we won't be able to keep her out of the pond. Griz loves his training! He is getting to work and play with puppies of all sizes, though most four month old pups are not 51 pounds. As you can see and to our delight, he is so very gentle with the small pups and plays hard with the pup his size or bigger and older. Griz is a smart pup, he has been working on his pointing exercise, release and other basic obeidence. I'm getting trained right along with him, i make more mistakes than he does. We are clicker training him and he has responded to it fast. As for Lake Erie, it's his swimming pool. He took to the water like a walleye, although I let him do it on his own, not forcing him. He play and digs in the sand for ever, it wears him out and is a good workout. He is a great family addition, we love him dearly. Babba is doing just great. Nietzche now lets Babba jump all over her - so I think that maybe Babba will be the head dog in our pack - of course after me. Thank you! Hi Judy. Jim and I are thinking about taking him in to the town on Sunday and meeting you there at noon. I will let you know for sure. Hey Mr. Blue sure is smart. .Jim says he may just be as smart as our old dog Rue. Its is so funny but you can actually see him think before he makes a move. He is just about potty trained. He has had a few accidents but no big deal.I think that getting another dog was a good choice. .Jim is smiling alot more now. I think he falling in love again. He is definitely a dog person. Hope all is well with you. I can't believe Harlow is 14 weeks old already! He is gorgeous, but that's because he has gorgeous parents! Burgundy and Bear could be models! I took him to the Northville Farmer's market this morning. We didn't stay long because it was so hot, but he was a hit! A lot of people recognized by his size that he has German bloodlines and everyone said how beautiful he is! We are enjoying the puppy classes in Davisburg and Mona is always a huge help! I don't know what we would do without her! She went horse camping with us last weekend and was perfect. I'm amazed at how well she sticks with her family. I had her off leash most of the weekend and she stayed at our camp. When we went riding I did tie her and she just slept, dug holes, and chewed her bone. At night she slept on the floor of the trailer with my other dogs. We got home Sunday night, she was so happy to see her house and yard she ran all around with her butt to the ground. Monday morning I had to wake her up to go potty! That never happens she is always up first. She is just what we were looking for. Thanks so much for our new family member. Pink For more info on anything mentioned here, please contact us via- telephone .Learn about our Editorial Policy. Published March 24, Copied! Everyone deserves to feel special on their birthday, including your canine companion. They provide you with tail wags, wet kisses, and, most importantly, unconditional love. Create a heartfelt or funny post on Instagram using one of these dog birthday captions to let friends and family know it is your pup's big day. Heartfelt Captions for Your Dog's Birthday Your dog is there for you through all of life's ups and downs. Honor your pup on their special day with a birthday caption that expresses just how much they mean to you. My life is brighter with you in it. Happy Birthday to this furry ray of sunshine. Thank you for filling my life with love, joy, happiness, and tail wags. I am so grateful to share this journey with you. Who would have thought a slobbering goofball could teach me so much about life and love? Happy Birthday to my everything. Thank you for teaching me how to love unconditionally and be unconditionally loved by you. Happy B-day. Today we celebrate you! Happy Birthday to my best friend, adventure buddy, and the world's best cuddler. I didn't think it was possible, but my love for you grows greater every single year. Happy [X]th Birthday! Life wouldn't be the same without you. Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole. Because it was the day my precious [your dog's name] was born! Funny Dog Birthday Captions If your dog is a huge goofball, you might be on the hunt for a funny or punny caption for their birthday post. Use one of these funny messages or create your own variation that'll suit your silly pooch. Yappy Barkday to this special pup! On birthdays, we break out the really good treats. We gon' sip Barkardi like it's your birthday! I love you more than you love bacon! Happy Barkday, and furry more. I hope your birthday is paw-sitively wonder-fur! Happy Birthday to my favorite child! We go together like peanut butter and Kong toys. Happy Birthday to my other half. Happy Birthday to my ride or die. Life would be ruff without you! Birthday Captions from a Dog's Point of View Even if your pup doesn't have their own Instagram account, it can be fun to create a birthday post from their point of view. Better yet, pair a caption with a fun birthday selfie! These cute and cheeky captions will let followers know how your dog really feels about getting another year or seven dog years! Sign up for our newsletter featuring all the latest stories and products we love. Invalid email I agree to receive email communications from LoveToKnow. You might choose to celebrate the day you brought your bundle of fur home instead of their birthday, or maybe you like to recognize both! Let friends and family know this is the anniversary of the day you got your best friend with a "Gotcha Day" caption. Thank you for choosing me. Now, I can't imagine my life without you. They say you can't buy love, but you sure can rescue it! I'm so happy I brought this rescue pup home [X] years ago. I can't believe it's been [X] years since I picked up this cutie. I'm celebrating you today and every day. Happy Gotcha Day! Look how far we've come! Happy Gotcha Day to my best friend. When I needed a hand, I found your paw. I'm so glad we found each other [X] years ago. Catchy Birthday Captions for Every Dog You'll have no trouble finding the perfect birthday caption to celebrate your dog no matter their personality, age, or interests. Some pet owners like to create their own birthday sentiments by using well-known dog quotes or other festive wishes. You can also consider other fun ways to make your dog's birthday memorable, like throwing them a party or making a pup-approved cake! Baby German Shepherds growing up! German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular dog breeds out there at the moment, with many devoted fans. They can be large and imposing as adults. But, like every breed, they have a cute puppy phase that many fall in love with. However, since most puppies are bought at weeks old, most of us miss out on this magical period of their lives. So what happens during those first important weeks? A typical German Shepherd litter consists of around puppies. The mean average, according to a study performed in , is 6. When they are first born, they will still have an umbilical cord attached and may be covered in amniotic fluid. Their mother should chew off the umbilical cord and spend the first few hours cleaning their pups. Then mom will focus on keeping her newborn pups warm while allowing them to nurse. At this stage, German Shepherd puppies will just sleep and avoid expending energy. They will frequently nurse from their mother. Newborn German Shepherds When baby German Shepherd puppies are first born, they are completely dependent on their mother. Their ears and eyes will be closed and they will be unable to regulate their own body temperature efficiently. A coat should be present, and the color will depend on the genes they have inherited from their parents. Black with tan markings is the most common for this breed. Additionally, they will be relatively immobile. They will be unable to properly support their own weight. Therefore, they will commonly crawl on their stomach to move about. They will also be unable to urinate or defecate on their own. Stimulation from their mother will be required to help them go to the toilet. One Week Old Baby German Shepherd In the first week, the puppies should bulk up significantly and double their birth weight. However, there will not be much change in their behavior. They will still primarily be focused on nursing and sleeping. To help themselves stay warm, the puppies will normally cuddle close to each other, except for when they are in a hot environment. At this stage, they will still be blind and deaf. While they are still unable to see very well, this is a big step. Eyes should open for the first time at around days of age. They will appear blue in color, but this will change into brown as they develop. They may become a little more inquisitive about their surroundings with their new-found eyesight, and may begin to crawl around a little more. We can expect to see them make some big steps at this stage. Firstly, at around days old, their ears should begin to open for the first time. They should now be able to both see and hear, though not too clearly. Their senses will continue to develop over the coming weeks. They will begin to be able to stand and support their own weight. Walking may still be tough, though! They will likely be pretty wobbly. You can also expect to see their baby teeth come in at around this time. While they still get the majority of their nutrition from their mother, they will begin to show interest in solid food. They will begin to become more independent at this age, being able to urinate and defecate on their own. Beginning Of Socialization With their sight and hearing, they are likely to show a little bit of adventure and courage for the first time, exploring their surroundings as much as their unsteady gait will allow them. This milestone also marks the beginning of the socialization period, a critical phase of their development. Things learned now can shape their personality and behavior for the rest of their lives. They may engage the other puppies in clumsy play and show body language such as tail wagging for the first time. They will form relationships with their den mates, their mother, and humans. This stage is critical in getting the puppies used to humans. This can be achieved by gently exposing the puppies to human presence and contact so that they can see that they are no threat. While their brains are still very much in development, they are still able to learn some simple concepts at this stage. Crate and potty training can begin at this age. They should now be able to walk pretty well. This mobility will allow them to further play with their family and be even more curious about their surroundings. On top of this, their baby teeth should now be fully formed and the weaning process should be fully underway. They should be offered soft but solid food. They may begin to show signs of more complex social behaviors towards their other den mates, and they should learn important skills like bite inhibition. The socialization process should continue, with the puppies gently being exposed to new people, sights, and sounds. The German Shepherd babies will also be further weaned off the mother at this time, slowly moving onto a fully solid diet. Six Week Old Baby German Shepherd At this age, you will begin to see the puppies become even more independent of their mother. Six week old puppies are gaining social skills rapidly, and love to play with people and each other. Seven Week Old Baby German Shepherd When we move into the seventh week of their life, a new significant phase of development starts to begin: the fear period. While this sounds disconcerting, it merely means that this is the time that many puppies begin to show fear towards new things, rather than curiosity. Things that the puppy may find scary or uncertain during this time can make for big changes in their personality throughout life. For example, if a puppy has a bad experience with a human at this stage, it may lead them to becoming fearful and distrustful towards people for the rest of their life. This is why gently exposing the puppies to humans and common sights and sounds beforehand is important. By preemptively socializing the puppies with humans, we can help this period run smoother. The puppies will have reached weights of around pounds and should be around inches tall. Their ears will lie flat but should begin to become erect and upright over the coming weeks. They will be fully independent of their mother at this age. They should be completely weaned, with some basic training and socialization. From here, new owners are expected to continue to train and socialize them, as they are still within a critical period of development. New owners will also need to continue to ensure the German Shepherd puppy is fed a good, nutritionally balanced diet. For more information, you can check out our full puppy development guide here. And make sure you also take a look at this guide to bathing a puppy! Maui, HI Jess and her family are just amazing at what they do. I could go on forever about how great she is but if you're looking for a German shepherd puppy she is the best of the best. You will not regret your choice. Ashleigh K. We will definitely adopt another GS in the future from them. Wesley S. Engaged loving home for males and females, thoughtful combinations of adults for pups. Smart food and human contact. I asked Jess for a certain kind of female and she heard me and sent the perfect match to my farm on Big Island. Tika is very smart, beautiful with all the alert skepticism a young GSD should show. Very healthy and always happy. Great pack dog. Jess is a good conscious breeder. I will purchase another dog from her in the future. Linda M. Jess pours her heart and soul into her breeding program and it shows in her puppies. From selecting parents with the right temperament to giving the puppies early exposures to car rides and loud noises. These dogs are not only beautiful, but extremely trainable, loving and even tempered. You cannot go wrong with Oahu German Shepherds! Hint: Follow them on instagram for an inside look! Anne W. From day 1 10 days old Jess worked with us and our needs as well as letting us visit whenever we wanted. Amber S. Maui, HI An absolutely amazing experience to work with Jess to bring home our beautiful puppy. I highly recommend them for their ethical and well researched breeding practices that will ensure your puppy is a perfect fit for your family. John B. Our puppies grow up on our property with our young daughters with constant socialization. We prioritize temperament: instability, reactivity and aggression are not tolerated over here! Our puppies are ready to go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old. We believe that this is the optimal time for them to transition to their new families and begin their training and socialization. At this age, they have received their first round of vaccinations, have already been microchipped and have been regularly dewormed and vet checked. We provide our new puppy families with a puppy goodie bag and a book full of information on how to continue their care and training at home. How much is a Puppy? This deposit is fully refundable if you change your mind for any reason before the puppies are born. We understand that the cost of a German Shepherd puppy can be a significant investment, but we believe that the quality of our breeding program and the health and socialization of our puppies is well worth the investment. We put a lot of time, effort, and resources into ensuring that our breeding dogs are health tested, come from champion bloodlines, and are raised in a stimulating and nurturing environment. Additionally, our puppies are the only GSD puppies on Island that are raised following the Puppy Culture socialization program, which has been proven to produce confident and well-socialized puppies. Our puppies come with a health guarantee, first set of vaccinations, microchip, dewormed, an awesome go-home bag with lots of goodies and a puppy packet with information on how to care for your new puppy. What is the Process to Reserve a Puppy? You can submit a Puppy Application Here. Why shouldn't I buy a cheaper puppy from a Backyard Breeder? These issues can lead to costly vet bills, behavioral rehabilitation, and heartache for the families who adopt them. We truly believe that purchasing a German Shepherd puppy from a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs is a worthwhile investment that will bring you joy and companionship for years to come. What type of German Shepherds do you breed? We specialize in breeding West German Showline German Shepherds, which are widely recognized for their striking appearance, sound temperament, and reliable stability. Our dogs are bred to adhere to the highest standards of health, temperament, and conformation. We believe that by carefully selecting only the finest dogs from Germany, we can produce puppies that grow into amazing companions. West German Show Line German Shepherds are selectively bred for their physical appearance to meet the standards set by conformation shows, resulting in a more refined look and a calmer temperament. On the other hand, Working Line German Shepherds are bred for their working abilities, with a focus on high energy levels and a strong drive to perform tasks at all times. Often Working line German Shepherds require far too much exercise and engagement than a family can provide. Due to their calm and composed demeanor, Showline German Shepherds are a great match for home life as they have the ability to relax and unwind with their owners. Do you Ship to other Hawaiian Islands? Yes, we do offer shipping for our puppies to their new homes. We prefer to have our puppies picked up in person whenever possible. If shipping is necessary, we work with Hawaiian Airlines to ensure that your puppy arrives safely and comfortably. Additional fees will apply for shipping, including the cost of the flight, health certificate, crate, and transportation to the airport. We will provide all the necessary information and support to make the process as easy as possible for you and your new puppy. Personal delivery is an option for an additional fee. Rick Pearce 07 May 22 Just a fantastic experience with my family. A very personal tour given by the family of Jireh Hill's. I would recommend everyone to experience this family run farm. Maria Trace 10 Apr 22 My children and I enjoyed a fun, relaxed and engaging farm tour with Cheryl and her lovely daughters. Our highlight was snuggling fresh baby bunnies and goats. Cheryl was happy to teach us all about the animals as we peppered her with questions. Thank you for giving us such a wonderful farm experience! We will definitely be back and spread the word. Such a welcoming and friendly family who hosted a great tour of the farm. Loved the hands-on experience with the animals and exploring the many things the farm has to offer. Trinity Sibley 18 Mar 22 Had a blast with the fam at the farm today! What an awesome adventure! We will definitely be going back! Love, Love, Love! It was an excellent experience from the from the moment we arrived there. Cheryl and her family are really wonderful. They have very well mannered children. My daughters' made friends with the girls and they all had a great time playing together. I have nothing but to say positive things about Cheryl, her husband John Marks and all their children. They made us feel like home. We definitely look forward to visiting them again soon perhaps in winter. Kathy Maczko 05 Oct 21 We spent the most lovely evening with Cheryl, Lexie and all of the wonderful farmanimals on this incredible family homestead. Warm, welcoming, educational and fun.Shirley John 11 Jul 21 I happened to book their event by randomly seeing an Ad. We visited them a week back with my brothers family and we all enjoyed our evening thoroughly. We highly recommend Jireh Hills for family getaways especially if you have kids. It was fun watching all the different farm animals, snuggling the little goats, bottle feeding them, watching and involving kids in milking them.Kids had a blast!! Cheryl and John along with their kids are such an inspirational family. .Your kids will definitely cherish this experience. They even have started camping at their farm this year. Thankyou Jireh Hills family! We loved seeing all of the animals and snuggling with the baby goats. Cheryl and family are so nice and make the experience a wonderful one! It was such a nice outdoor adventure full of nature, animals as well as educational. Cheryl and daughters were very informative. The homestead is beautiful. Can't wait to take my grandchildren! Thank you for a great experience!! They do a tour where you get to play with the goats, feed the baby goats a bottle and walk with alpacas. It was hands on education and lots of interactive for children and families. It's worth a trip. Loved how family focused it was and their family is so lovely and all chip in at the farm to make your family feel welcome. It's a new business with growing visions. Look forward to see how it grows! What a great experience not only for kids but adults too!! Cheryl, John and their kids are fantastic! Highly recommend taking a tour and participating in all other activities they have to offer. Definitely taking my kids back!! Nicole Urquhart 10 Jun 21 What a great way to spend a morning! Learned a lot, smiled tons and great snuggles. We had a great time playing with the goats and learning what life is like. Hard workers and so knowledgeable. Such a wonderful friendly family and great memories we made today! Thank you so much for everything, it was a wonderful afternoon! We love the interaction with all of the animals and the educational aspect as well. The animals are very well cared for and as a result, are very friendly. I highly recommend visiting! Amir Watkins 02 Jun 21 What a great day with the family. My children enjoyed the tour of the farm as well as the little hike around the property. The owners are very informative. Shannon Jackson 02 Jun 21 Cheryl and her family were awesome. The goats were so cute and friendly. We appreciate you having us and really enjoyed our educational and fun experience. Kerry Rempel 31 May 21 Goat snuggles are the best! Cheryl and her family gave us a warm welcome and were great at giving us info and answering all our questions! The farm is beautiful and it was a lot of fun being there! We can't wait to go back! My daughter is obsessed with goats and was definitely in heaven snuggling with all the babies. Even the rest of us who were not originally goat obsessed now have a new love for the sweet animals. The rest of the farm was also beautiful and we are very much looking forward to going back to walk the alpacas!

They are outgoing, active and affectionate companions who have a lot of energy and love making their owner happy. They have strong retrieving instincts as they were bred to be gun dogs, so they love both soft toys and diving into bodies of water. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your Labrador puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks you may wish to introduce a mush of minced protein such as beef, but always consult your vet first before changing your puppy's diet at this stage. Health During this time it is important to monitor your Lab for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach. Behaviour During most of this time your Labrador puppy will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. You will soon notice their attentiveness to you and their intense love of play — many Labs keep this caring and fun attitude for their whole lives if you foster it. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your Labrador's large size and young age. Labs are notoriously greedy and will quickly gobble down food and snatch treats from hands. You should familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid and hide as your puppy will soon find ways to get into forbidden snacks found only in bins. Labradors puppies instinctively like to 'dig' inside their water bowls so much of their water will end up on the ground. Make sure to get your puppy used to touching inside their small ears as they are prone to ear infections and will need regular checkups. Behaviour Due to the changes in their environment, your Labrador puppy will likely be under a significant amount of stress. It's important that you provide lots of attention and positive reinforcement for good behaviour at this time to establish boundaries early. Labradors are eager to love anyone but can be overbearing, so you should introduce them to a number of different people and environments so that they are not overwhelmed with excitement later in life. PUPPY By the time your Labrador Retriever reaches puppyhood their personality will be well developed and you will have established a loving, social friend who wants to maximise time with you and others. Your Labrador puppy will do well socially and behaviourally from puppy training classes as long as treats are involved. Nutrition Your Labrador puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. You may also wish to introduce them to fresh, lean raw meat — however, don't feed your puppy any meat you would not feed to a fellow human being. Bloat is potentially fatal but can be combatted by feeding your dog two smaller meals per day, a habit you should start while they are a puppy. A rough guide is that they should exercise for minutes per day and less after 5 years when many lose their appetite for long marathons of activity. Your pup will need brushing every few days, with more frequent grooming during seasonal changes to combat shedding. Bathing should be infrequent as this can damage the waterproofing of their coats, however, you should wash them after swimming or rolling in muck. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters after that. Studies showed that dogs supplemented with a diet of bovine colostrum had a quicker and stronger immune system response to CDV vaccine as compared to dogs fed a control diet. Colostrum supplemented dogs maintained a higher antibody level even after 40 weeks A diet supplemented with Colostrum helps bridge the immunity gap in puppies that occurs between 3 weeks and 5 months of age. Behaviour Do not be complacent with training your Labrador puppy — almost all are very gentle and well behaved, but this does not mean that training is unnecessary. Labs are very loving and patient with all that they meet, but they often do not know their own size. To combat this, they should be trained in how to act around small dogs and children to avoid intimidation or accidental injury. They will also benefit from obedience training to drop things from their mouths, avoid rushing across busy streets and make sure they come when called. Recommended Articles. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. In the beginning, the food needs for my Labrador Molly changed dramatically. I worried that I was feeding her too little. As she grew older, I became concerned that I was feeding her too much. So, how often should you feed a Labrador? You should feed an adult Labrador two meals per day. You should feed Labrador puppies three meals per day, unless otherwise stated on the food packaging. It is essential to adhere to food schedules that are consistent for the long-term health of your Lab. You should also be aware of how to handle situations when your dog doesn't want to eat on schedule or doesn't finish its meal. In this article Labrador Feeding Schedules Labrador adults, like most dogs, work well when fed on a schedule. Twice per day is the standard as it allows the dog to eat and digest properly. Puppies will require more frequent feedings, though, as they expend far more energy and smaller stomachs to hold their needed food. If you have a Labrador that gets a lot of exercise, you may want to consider feeding them less food more often, as they will likely feel hungry sooner. Age, size, and the food's nutritional content should determine the amount of food given. Whatever the frequency, it's crucial for your puppy or dog to have a regular feeding schedule. Disrupting this can cause digestive problems that are unpleasant for the dog and the owner. According to Veterinary Centers of America, dogs are creatures of habit that need the security and predictability of their feeding routine. In addition, keeping the feeding schedule consistent helps your pet cope with other changes that may occur within the household. Lastly, never free-feed a Labrador. While Labradors may not technically eat themselves to death , they can certainly make themselves sick if you let them decide how much and how often to eat. This is especially true while you're trying to establish a set routine for when your Lab will eat its meals. Feed Your Lab Less Food More Frequently If you find that your Labrador isn't interested in eating the entire meal in a single sitting, you can add more mealtime if it works for your schedule. To do this, you should take the whole day's meal portion and divide it evenly into the desired number of meals. If you add an extra mealtime, you should serve 1 cup at each of the three meals. In other words, adding another mealtime doesn't mean that you add more food intake to the day's total. Use Interactive Food Dispensers Another option is to use an interactive toy to dispense the food, which may help to keep your dog's attention for the entire mealtime. It is an excellent option to hide food or treats. This particular item is perfect for a Labrador because it will allow your pet to use its intelligence to solve a puzzle and problem-solve while being rewarded with the kibble hidden inside. Although it isn't a good option for every Lab's mealtime, it is an idea for a pup that loses interest in their food before finishing. How Much to Feed a Labrador Your Lab's portions at each meal should depend on a few different factors. First of all, you need to know if your pup is currently at a healthy weight. So the best thing to do in this case is to ask your veterinarian if your Lab is at a healthy weight. If your Lab is not at an ideal weight , you'll need to talk to your vet and amend the feeding plan. You may also consider a specialized food designed to help your dog reach the appropriate weight. Your Labrador's activity level will also impact how much he needs to eat each day. It's always a good idea to consult the feeding guide on your dog food and your veterinarian's advice to make an informed decision. Labrador Feeding Schedule Examples To give you an idea of a standard feeding schedule and meal plan, here is a chart based on the feeding recommendation from Royal Canin's Labrador Retriever dry puppy food : Adult Target Weight:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. Labs are known for being voracious eaters who will over-indulge if allowed. You need to monitor their food intake throughout their lives -- pups that overeat at any growth stage have the potential to develop health problems, including obesity. Newborn Pups Labrador puppies should receive mother's milk exclusively for the first four weeks of life. No other supplement is necessary during this time unless a pup is failing to thrive, in which a vet should be consulted before providing supplemental feeding. A mother begins weaning her pups at 4 weeks. They can transition to a commercial puppy food designed specifically for large breeds that has 25 to 30 percent protein. Young Puppies Labs grow significantly between 8 weeks and 1 year of age. Because of this rapid growth, they require a high-quality puppy food formulated for large-breed dogs. This helps ensure the pup does not grow too quickly, which can lead to bone and joint problems later in life. Lab puppies will eat as much as you give them, so monitor food intake and don't make food available continuously. Adult Labs Lab puppies can be transitioned to a large-breed adult formula dog food at 1 year of age. If your dog is being trained as a hunting dog, he will require more food than when he was a puppy, particularly if he is expending significant energy in the field. Likewise, an adult female used for breeding purposes requires additional food and possibly prenatal supplements. Consult a vet for more information if you are thinking about breeding your dog. Potential Health Problems Labradors are prone to hip, elbow and joint problems as they age, and an overweight dog is more susceptible to these ailments. Maintaining a healthy weight and ensuring your dog gets plenty of exercise helps reduce the potential for these problems. Labs are also susceptible to a condition called gastric dilatation and torsion, sometimes referred to as bloat. Adults often eat so quickly that it causes a gaseous buildup in their intestines that has the potential to be fatal. Reduce the potential for this by feeding your dog food that has been soaked in water or use a feeding bowl that has a raised center section that slows the eating process. Naturally, Labrador puppies would require more feeding times. Hence, you should only set a few hours interval between meals. As for adult Labs, optimal feeding times would be one in the morning, afternoon, and night. Almost identical to human eating hours. Along with implementing a time frame for mealtime, owners must be open to modifying combinations of puppy food throughout the first two years of the pup. Abrupt growth spurts may bring changes in their eating habits. Once your dog reaches one year old, its dog food is enough to sustain its energy for longer. Always ensure to follow the correct feeding schedule when feeding kibble or other types of dog food to ensure nutritional requirements are met. Regardless if you have chocolate , red fox , or Dudley Labrador , make it a priority to visit a pet nutritionist to obtain an accurate feeding time and quantity specifically designed for your pooch. They help in hunting, farming, and even therapy. As such, they require an energy-loaded diet and dog foods that are rich in protein and carbohydrates to keep up with their activities. Since they belong to the large breed classification, they are also prone to common health risks such as arthritis and other joint diseases. To prevent this, scour the local pet store with dog food that contains omega fatty acids, B vitamins, beta-carotene , and amino acids. These nutrients are essential to obtain, whether from a raw food diet, home-prepared meals, or commercial dog food. Here are some of the best dog foods we recommend for your Labrador Retriever: Wet Food: Like kibble, commercially available wet dog food is common and already a complete and balanced diet for your Labrador puppy or adult dog. Its smooth texture is well-loved by purebreds and mixed breeds alike. Eating wet food that contains Docosahexaenoic acid DHA , glucosamine, and Eicosapentaenoic acid EPA helps support the condition of their joints and heart. Dry Food: When on the hunt for the most suitable dry dog food, always look for grain-free and made from whole food sources so it can easily be digested. Also, check the food labels and ensure that it has a perfect balance of carbohydrates and fats. Highly fortified and breed-specific kibble is also recommended. Homemade Food: Considering how much your adult dog or Lab puppy eats, a healthy diet made from scratch can be a great alternative to avoid obesity. Just mix everything together with a little water to incorporate them better. Furthermore, this diet opts for low sodium content. Owners should include fish and flaxseed oil, carrots, eggs, liver, and beans into the raw puppy food diet. Since Labrador Retrievers are energetic and active dogs, it is best to give them a moderate to high-fat diet. As long as they are able to exercise daily, they can easily work it off and avoid being overweight. However, if they are more on the lax side, adjust their food intake from low to moderate calories. If they cannot burn off the calories, enroll them in a low-fat or low-protein diet instead. Excessive carbs can increase their blood sugar and may put your dogs at risk for diabetes. It may take extra time and effort, but the investment will definitely pay off. Once you learn the appropriate feeding pattern, then having a healthy dog with strong joints and a better digestive and immune system is easily attainable. That includes sharing our belongings, space, and most especially, our food. However, the American Kennel Club reminds owners to be aware of what human food is safe for dogs. In this section, you will learn which foods are okay for consumption and which food can harm our Labrador Retrievers. Physically, it can block their esophagus if not chewed properly. Moreover, some may also contain salt that can be fatal to their heart. Chocolate: Chocolate in any other form should not be given to dogs. Chocolate has toxic substances called methylxanthines that put a stop to their metabolic process. It can still be toxic even in the smallest amount as it may cause diarrhea or vomiting. Garlic and Allium Plants: Alliums such as garlic, chives, leeks, and onions are not good for dog consumption. Although regularly seen across social media, feeding your pooch ice cream is not recommended. It contains loads of sugar, and some dogs may be lactose intolerant as well. As an alternative, owners can always freeze berries and apples as a regular icy treat. On the contrary, here are some of the most friendly human foods for all dogs, including Labrador Retrievers: Milk: Milk is a great supplement of other nutrients for dogs. Just be mindful that your dog is not lactose intolerant. It should only be given in small quantities as a treat. Popcorn: On a movie night, dogs can also munch on popcorn. However, ensure that it is unsalted, unflavored, and air-popped. In moderation, it is a good source of thiamine and riboflavin for eyesight. Remove any unpopped kernels to avoid choking. Seafood: In addition, seafood such as salmon and shrimp contain good fats and are high in antioxidants. Seafood boosts their immune system and brain health. Be sure to thoroughly cook salmon, fish, and shrimp all the way through to avoid parasites. Eggs: Eggs are also safe for dogs so long as they are also cooked well. Cheese: Cheese can also be given to dogs in moderate quantities. Go for low-fat cheese as a treat. Mozzarella and cottage cheese are some that can be fully enjoyed by dogs without the fat guilt. A small amount of prohibited food is not worth an emergency trip to a vet. Throughout their life stages, a dog will not just undergo one food switch. Age, health, and other factors can fuel a change in their diet. As stated earlier, an abrupt change in their food will only cause an upset stomach and indigestion. There are a couple of reasons to switch food. Add the new food into each meal gradually and reduce the portion of their current food. This method can also be followed when changing from dry kibble to raw feeding and vice versa. Some reasons for change can be prompted by age. Different life stages will require different nutritional requirements for your dog. Other reasons may be caused by allergies, brand availability, and weight management. It is still best to consult your trusted vet about changing their overall food regimen. They just enjoy feeding their pooch with tons of food and love seeing them get fat. However, that is not considered proper care for them. Experienced dog breeders know precisely what an overweight dog looks like and how to feed them properly. Labradors are known for their love of food. They are incapable of switching off their hunger signals even after eating. As a result, Labs have a higher number of overweight dogs in the United States. Like with other dogs, overfeeding a dog can lead to obesity. Thankfully, there are ways to address this and protect the health of our pooch in the long run. An eye-opening first step is to have a handy Labrador food guide. Having this will help you gauge the correct amount of food your dog needs depending on its age and other factors as well. Log what they eat and how much they eat during each meal. Calculating their calorie intake is also helpful for medical purposes and when switching food. Furthermore, avoid feeding overweight dogs table scraps. Many owners are guilty of this habit. Much like table scraps, it is also best to limit dog treats. Entice dogs with treats only on special occasions and during training. These are just some of the simple things you can do to control an overweight pooch. When it comes to other methods, it is always advisable to speak with your vet. Dogs lose their appetite due to some reasons. Do Labrador Retrievers Eat a lot? Yes, Labrador Retrievers are a food-motivated breed. This is why owners need to control their food intake. Can Labrador Retrievers Eat Bones? Bones are a good source of minerals, so they can be good for Labrador Retrievers. However, it may come with serious physical trade-offs. Give only large, raw bones and supervise them from time to time. Dispose of the bone after 3 to 4 days. Can Labrador Retrievers Be Vegetarians? Yes, Labrador Retrievers can thrive with a proper vegetable diet in place. In fact, soy and other whole grains are perfect substitutes for meat for protein. However, a vegetarian diet is something that needs professional input from vets. Final Thoughts Labs are the most popular dog breed in the United States. Thus, there are a lot of available materials on how to take care of and feed this easy-going pooch properly. For starters, it is highly recommended to have a Labrador feeding schedule to guide you with the amount and frequency of feeding. Although Labrador food is accessible for purchase anywhere, you can also introduce them in a raw diet or homemade meals. Regardless of what type of food you choose to give, you need to ensure to feed your dog a complete diet that supports their growth and overall health. As an owner, it is a big responsibility to provide them with only the best, so these high-spirited companions can have a happy and longer life. Will you follow this Labrador food guide? What are your feeding methods with your pooch? Share and comment your thoughts below! 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. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Labradors are a large, active breed with gluttony to match. This may scare new owners into thinking they'll harm themselves by overeating. Labrador retrievers will rarely eat themselves to death. While they tend to have an insatiable appetite, it is more likely that a Labrador would eat to the point of nausea rather than death. Closely monitoring what and how your dog eats is the easiest way to prevent this occurrence. However, other issues can result from overeating. In this article, I will address meal portions, foods they eat, and ways to develop healthy eating habits. It's a relief that Labradors can stop themselves before eating themselves into the grave. Still, overeating, as well as undereating, is dangerous and unhealthy for a dog. So how do you find the right balance? A Labrador retriever should eat three times a day as a puppy and twice a day as an adult. When it comes to portions, consider factors like age, activity level, and weight. Never resort to free-feeding or a once-a-day diet. These options do not bode well with a Labrador's appetite. Labrador eating habits are subject to change over time. So it is best to keep that in mind when considering portions. To start, puppies should get fed three times a day. For actual amounts, you should refer to the serving guide on your dog food's packaging. If your puppy does not finish their food after fifteen minutes, take it away. In this case, you can reduce future portions by a quarter cup 59 mL. After about four months, you can change the feeding schedule to two times a day. Labradors reach their peak height between months old. By then, you can cut back on portions as you see fit. As your Labrador grows into old age, they may become less hungry. In this case, it is vital to maintain a two-meal-per-day schedule. Still, you can decrease portions without skimping on nutrients. Instead, change their food to a nutrient and calorie-dense choice that takes less effort to eat. Furthermore, consider how active your dog is. If your Labrador expends a lot of energy during the day, they may need a little extra food. So, how can you tell if you are feeding your Lab too much? As a rule, you should be able to feel your dog's ribs under subtle padding of fat. If you can't find your dog's ribs, they may be overweight. However, if your dog's ribs protrude against their skin, they may be underweight. What to Feed a Labrador Retriever Let's take a moment to talk about nutrition. While Labradors can eat everything in sight, that does not mean they should. Labradors, like any dog, need a special diet to stay healthy and happy. So treat your dog to the best food by researching what they should eat. Furthermore, the prominent ingredient should be a source of protein. Foods preserved with natural vitamins are another plus. Remember that dogs and people maintain different diets. For example, while humans are omnivores, dogs are carnivores. Therefore, Labradors thrive on a protein-heavy diet. Furthermore, their diets should primarily consist of meat. Does this mean grains are off the table? On the contrary, some grains are okay since they can also provide protein. Still, carbohydrates are more challenging for dogs to digest. So it is best to find a food that lists at least two meat sources in the first five ingredients. Furthermore, the one preservative you should avoid is ethoxyquin , which is a known carcinogen. Luckily, most dog foods today use Vitamin E or Vitamin C to stay fresh. Did you know that how a dog eats is as important as what and how much they eat? Fast eating can cause problems, like bloat , for your Labrador. So what can you do to slow them down? You can slow down your Labrador retriever's eating with small decisive changes. Boundaries and limits, like a feeding schedule, can help your dog pace itself. Plus, environmental changes, like separating your pets at mealtime, will remove the pressure to scarf down food. Here are five ways you can slow down your Labrador's eating: Invest in a programmable feeder: Consider products like the PetSafe Healthy Pet Automatic Dog Feeder , which allows you to feed your dog at preset times. This product works great for when you are away from home. Use a compartmented food bowl: Food bowls with compartments provide obstacles that encourage dogs to take their time while eating. Muffin tins are another suitable option. Create a feeding schedule: Labs, like any dog, are creatures of habit. Creating set meal times with smaller portions will help them understand when is the right time to eat. Furthermore, consistent small meals will keep your Lab from binging large spaced-out meals. Add water to your dog's food: Soaking your dog's dry food in warm water can make it more filling. In turn, your dog will need more time to eat it. Create a specific eating environment: Distractions and stressors can pressure dogs to eat quicker than they need to. For example, if you have multiple pets, make sure they eat in separate areas to avoid competing. We know that it is unlikely for Labrador retrievers to eat themselves to death. Still, it would be significantly out of character for them to stop eating. So is it possible for a Lab to starve itself to death? Your Labrador retriever will not starve itself to death, at least not on purpose. Dogs have a strong survival instinct that guides their eating. Plus, they can survive longer without food than water. Still, if your Lab stops eating for more than 24 hours, check for any underlying problems. For pet owners, a dog refusing to eat may indicate illness. Luckily, there are plenty of reasons your Lab is not eating. Furthermore, some reasons are so simple that you may have overlooked them. Your Labrador retriever would stop eating due to illness, bad habits, or stressors. Rather than take an alarmist approach, it is better to observe your dog's behavior. There are often other internal and external factors affecting their appetite. Always keep your vet informed when you notice changes. For more information, check out WebMD's highly informative article. This page expands on the many reasons your dog may not be eating. Furthermore, they offer great solutions to get picky Labs eating again when they lose their appetite. Note: None of this advice is equivalent to a veterinarian's knowledge and experience. Always consult with your vet when addressing specific problems. Final Thoughts In short, your Labrador retriever will not eat itself to death as long as you take care of them properly. While they may have a big appetite, there are many ways you can train them to develop positive eating habits. For instance, Balanced portions, consistent feeding schedules, and a healthy diet are all great places to start. Also, remember to pay attention to your dog's behavior. It will indicate what areas of your Lab's nutrition require improvement. For example, though they have to meet specific requirements, commercial dog foods may differ in nutrient composition, where one type of dog food carries the nutrients your dog needs in a small amount while another gives the nutrients in a larger amount. In the first case, feeding your dog twice daily would be enough. But if your dog needs a larger amount to meet his nutritional needs, then you may need to feed him more times. Reading the dog food listing on the package should help you decide on the number of times to feed your Lab. Alternatively, refer to the serving instructions on the dog food package. This dog food is made to provide a balanced feed to Labradors older than a year and balances out the fat and protein ratio to suit the breed. To answer the question of how often you should feed a Labrador with this particular product, the serving suggestion on the Royal Canin Labrador food package shows the number of cups your Labrador should eat per day in relation to its weight and activity level, divided into two meals. For example, a pound 20 kg Labrador with an hour of daily activity should be fed 4 cups 1 L of Royal Canin divided into two meals. Activity Level Labradors with a high activity level should be fed more food to replenish the energy expended during exercise. The more food a dog eats, the more you should break it down into smaller meals. For example, a pound 35 kg male Labrador is assigned 6 cups of Royal Canin food if he does 1 hour of activity daily. The increased food amount would be better divided into three meals rather than the usual two. This rationing is because feeding your dog more than it is used to eat in a single meal can cause slowed digestion and, consequently, bloating and stomach discomfort. A healthy dog feeding option is a 3-meal daily schedule breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Health Labradors with health issues need special feeding plans. The rule for the number of times a sick Labrador should be fed is they should eat in small quantities several times daily. The food should be easy to eat and digest, like chicken breast or gravy. Doing this will ensure that your dog gets the required nutrients and does not risk malnourishment. Instead, if you work from home, you may opt for healthier, smaller meals 3-times a day. For example, you may already feed your Lab the right amount of food recommended for his age, weight, and activity level twice a day, but your dog always leaves food in his bowl. In this case, you may want to divide the food into three smaller meals. Dividing the food will ensure your dog eats the recommended amount and gets the required nutrition. Creating a Labrador feeding plan also means not allowing your Lab to eat every bit of food or non-food items he finds on his way. We will tell you how in the next section. Consult your vet. Lab food with all the recommended nutrients and the right amount of fiber will make your dog feel full and not required to eat always. You can work that out with your vet before reaching out to a dog food company. I really like Ollie as it makes feeding times so easy, and you can relax knowing your doggo is getting all the proper nutrients. Understanding why Labradors always feel hungry due to a genetic cause is reason enough not to give in to their begging. Giving in once means giving in always, and that will keep your dog asking for food at the table or even stealing it himself when you are not around. If your Lab is the kind that likes to eat everything, time spent working the puzzle could save him a few extra bites. For example, keeping your Lab busy with slow feeders while you have your meal is a perfect way of keeping him from begging for table scraps. If a puzzle or slow feeder sounds to you like an answer to the question of how to stop a Labrador from eating everything, I recommend the Outward Hound Slow Feeder Dog Bowl from Amazon. Whichever the case, your vet has the best answer to all these situations. There are several reasons why Labradors eat fast: your dog may have the POMC gene mutation that makes him always hungry and wanting to gobble down his food; your Lab may have a hunger-triggering illness like diabetes, or your Lab may be unsure of his next meal if your feeding schedule is irregular. Other reasons your Lab may be hurrying to eat his meal include: A learned behavior to eat quickly. Poor nutrition that makes him always hungry and in a hurry to replenish his energies. Competition for food resources with other pets in the home. If, instead, your Lab has a medical, nutritional, or stress issue, resolving the causes will help your Lab grow out of eating everything. Do you want to learn more about pica in Labradors? Why do Labradors eat so much? For no fault of their own. A good number of Labs have a mutation of the POMC gene that makes them perpetually hungry and always want to eat. Some Labs may eat a lot due to nutritional deficiencies, illnesses that trigger hunger like diabetes, or stress. Related Posts You May Like:. Why do Labs eat everything? Excessive eating can be caused by hunger, nutritional deficiencies, illness, boredom, and more. My Dog Eats Anything and Everything! Domestic dogs, including the Labrador, are classed as omnivores. So, they can eat and get nutrients from a large variety of foods, including meat and plant based foods. Labs are known to eat lots and quickly. So, eating everything can become a problem. And to find a solution, we need to understand the cause of the problem. Why Do Labs Eat Everything? There are a number of reasons that can explain why Labs like to eat so much. Some are more serious than others. They are hungry. These foods might not always deal with the deficiency. But, it means your dog may continue to eat scraps and other food until he gets the nutrients he needs. Labradors are prone to a health issue called hypothyroidism, which can lead to hunger and weight gain. There may be an underlying problem causing your lab to seek out other things to eat. This mutation is associated with higher body weight levels and increased food motivation. This reason makes it harder for us to solve excessive eating in Labs. This may not just be food. You may find that your Lab starts chewing his toys and bedding. Ingesting non-food items like this can be very dangerous for dogs. In a survey on owner perceptions, many dog owners believed that emotional eating in dogs was more common in unhappy dogs, or those who were more dependent on their owners. If your Lab is showing any other signs of stress or anxiety, such as pacing, panting, and trembling, you should speak to your vet. Helping your dog overcome anxiety, stress, or separation anxiety may help you to overcome excessive eating. This is because eating excessively can be a sign of a deeper, underlying health issue. Obesity is an increasing problem amongst pets over the world. And, it can lead to further health issues down the line. Try to identify when your dog started trying to eat everything. Did it happen suddenly, or has it always been this way? Once you know this, speak to your vet. Make sure your dog is eating a healthy amount at mealtimes, and getting a completely balanced food. They must be getting all nutrients required. Most of the causes above can be dealt with easily. If your dog is hungry or not receiving the proper nutrients, you can change the type or amount of food they eat at mealtimes. This can be problematic and dangerous for our dogs. Others will eat sticks, stones , and plants that they find in your yard. Some labs may dig through your trash can for smelly treats, or eat old food they find on walks. This is problematic for obvious reasons. Old food can be moldy, and dead things can carry any number of diseases. This is a sure-fire path to a very sick Lab. Choose only indestructible toys and monitor playtime so you can remove any toys that start to break. Invest in a trash can with a locking lid. This way, your Lab will really struggle to get inside to its smelly contents. Make sure your counters and surfaces are completely clear of anything that your Lab might try to eat. This can be a long process. But, it will be worth it in the end if your dog stops swallowing things that could hurt him. They can help you find a healthy diet plan for your dog, and guide you on the right amount of exercise to slowly help your dog return to a normal weight. Why Do Labs Eat Everything There are a number of reasons why Labs and other dogs may try to eat everything they can find. Make sure you speak to your vet if the problem has arisen suddenly. It may be an indicator of a serious health problem. References and Resources. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies.

Email: charliehoskins13 comcast. Hoskins Pugs is run by a retired military, Pug-loving, family from Olympia, Washington. They care about producing top of the line, quality Pugs from their own home. All Pugs are clean, well cared for, and an important part of the Hoskins family. Aura Pugs Email: aurapugs gmail. They strive to always put health first and do their best to better the breed. Aura Pugs tests for health concerns and have their Pugs evaluated and vetted at different stages. All dogs are raised in the home as members of the family, promoting good social skills and manners. Aura Pugs show their dogs regularly throughout the Northwest, and invite prospective owners to come and visit them. These breeders have a dedication and commitment to the Pug breed that drives them to provide a loving haven for their dogs. All Pups are well socialized and bred to AKC standards with parents on site. C Pride Pugs go to their forever homes equipped with AKC registration papers, vet checks, dewclaw removal, vaccinations, and deworming. All Pug parents are genetically tested and puppies are sold as pets with a limited AKC registration. Puppies are baby checked and microchipped before being rehomed and come with a health guarantee and lifelong advice. This Pug loving family from Washington wants to spread the joy that Pugs bring to others. All Grumble of Love Pugs are bred from the comfort of the family home. Each pup is loved and cared for by Aneta, her husband Chris, and their two boys. She is a longtime breeder of Pugs with a special interest in colored Pugs. Her dogs are all pets and live in the home with humans. Puppies have the opportunity to become well socialized with children, adults, and other dogs. Stephanie is available for advice for as long as you might need. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time. The effect is producing a sociable and friendly pet for everyone. Their dog breeding program started in , where the grandmother showed Scottish and Manchester Terriers. Right now, they are breeding fawn and black pugs that abide by the AKC standards. All their pups are raised indoors, so they are friendly to people. They are sociable and capable of joining dog shows. In fact, the majority of their pugs are still joining dog shows in Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and Northwest America. As a reputable pug dog club, they train all their dogs before adoption. They have different pug breed available for you to choose from. Some of these are black pugs and fawn. As a member of the American Kennel Club, all pugs evaluated are of the highest quality. They are sociable and friendly to people. All pets are vaccinated, spayed, and groomed. All pugs are litter box trained as well. Hoskins Pugs have been breeding quality AKC registered pugs for around fifteen years. Their pride pugs are one of the best in Washington and Oregon. Visit their website to get more information about them. C Pride Pugs prioritizes the quality of Chinese pugs they are selling in Washington. All their pups abide by the AKC standards, so you can expect they are vaccinated, spayed, and inserted with microchips for easy tracing. All their pug breeds stay in a family-like place, this is to make them sociable to children. You can have them as your best friend since they have good social skills. These pups are as sociable as poodles, so having them as part of the family is great. It helps them give early medical treatment for any diseases on their dogs. If you want to know more about them and their programs, visit their website. You can also call their office for inquiries.

More VaGolden Retrievers Hello, I hope you enjoyed my website, and have taken the time to review all my pages , from text,photos and videos. You can find answers to most of your questions on my site. Placing you and one of my puppies together is something I take very seriously. Knowing you are happy and that one of my puppies has made that happen, means a lot to me. I do hope each family takes the time to get to know me and the line of adult Golden's I have. This is my line. A strong line of Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers make perfect family pets. They always enjoy being part of the family's company and show love and devotion to all members of the family. They crave love and affection. Companionship is their top priority and they are totally devoted to their human family. Puppies For Sale If you're interested in my coming litter,, please call I have litters arriving thought out the year. Once they arrive, I will have videos of the puppies on this website. It's always best to plan taking a puppy home and contacting me in advance is always best. He has been the most amazing dog and are so blessed to have him in our life. He is going to turn 10 months old and looks so much like his Mom and Dad. Thank you Grayland for such an amazing dog! We named him Hook because we are a Disney family and he is the Captain of our new home. We will definitely recommend you to future Golden owners. Hello, it's been 3 weeks since our Penny came home. I just wanted to thank you for this precious pup. We love her very much and she's become an integral part of the family. She's doing great with house training and is even using door bells to let us know when she needs to go out. She can sit, lay down, and shake. Penny has an awesome personality and loves everyone even our cat! She just had her 10 week check up and our veterinarian said "she's perfect in every way. She's exactly what a golden should be. So thank you so very much. We are so thankful to have our little Piper. She is quite a gem that has added that extra spunk to our Golden family. We now have 4 and plan on adding to our brood with just one more from VA Golden Retrievers. We have had such a positive experience. You can definitely see that Mr. Nelson loves his Goldens. They are friendly, energetic and well bred. Thank you for sharing a part of your family with us. We purchased our golden back in April and we named him Theodore. We are so happy with him! Theo has the sweetest disposition and learns quickly. He does well on the leash, sits, stays sometimes! Our girls absolutely love him I just wanted to let you know what a blessing our puppy has been to us! Hello Mr. We meet before back in .Bailey is such a blessing to our family. First off he is the most loving and sweetest dog in the whole world! We could Not imagine life without him he has truly given our family so much happiness! I just wanted to thank you so much for our sweet boy! We brought Beamer home in December and he has been such a blessing to our little family. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Virginia Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Virginia? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Virginia? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. In spite of their size, they think they are lap dogs, and in spite of being dogs, they think they are also human, and nearly every human they meet is judged to have the potential to be a boon companion who might, at many moment, cry, "Let's go! I do not have a wait list. I have golden retriever puppies for sale perhaps once or twice a year. Because I breed infrequently, I can not guarantee I will have a puppy that meets your needs by any set time. I'd hate to have families waiting for a puppy and find I do not have one for them. After a litter arrives and I know what I have in terms of numbers and gender, then I can get serious about reviewing questionnaires submitted by interested families, and I contact people to discuss the specifics once the pups are a few weeks old. The pups require a great deal of time and attention, so it can take me a little while after a litter arrives to get to this part of the placement process. Please keep in mind that I breed golden retriever puppies in northern Virginia, and I do not ship puppies. Do I get to pick which pup I want? I place the pups based on the pups' individual characteristics and each family's specific requirements. I obviously take your preferences into consideration, but your puppy's personality should fit the lifestyle you'll have with him for the next 12 or so years. I raise the pups in my home. For their first few weeks the pups are in my family room with my family, other dogs, and cats, and, after they are old enough and need more room to move freely, the pups move to a large pen in my basement with access to an outdoor pen. All of my dogs are house dogs; the pups are not raised in a kennel. As the pups mature, I spend a great deal of time with them, getting to know their individual personalities. I also watch how they move and determine which have the best conformation. As they get older, they are exposed to many different sounds, textures, flooring and ground surfaces, environments, and people. During this socialization process, I learn which pups would be best suited to which types of homes, and I place them accordingly. Show, performance and working homes take priority, and homes who already have an Eta D'Oro dog generally also take priority. I get frequent inquiries regarding my pups, and I do save those questionnaires as they come in. However, I find most people are not willing to wait the several months, or longer, it may take before I actually have pups available to go to their homes. Accordingly, I do not have extensive contact with most potential buyers until I have pups that are several weeks old. I don't want to waste anyone's time until I know I have a puppy available. That being said, I like to get to know my puppy buyers as much as I can before they take their new puppy home. I often have folks come to visit the pups when they are old enough, and our initial phone conversation s often take a little time so you can learn about me and my dogs, and so I can learn as much as I can about the type of dog that fits into your family. A laid-back dog might be better suited to a less active family, and a higher energy dog would be better suited to an active family. Why health testing? All my dogs are health tested prior to breeding. Health testing means so much more than just a vet check. It's testing in specific areas by board certified veterinarians to ensure my breeding dogs meet the standards expected of breeders under the GRCA Code of Ethics, a standard designed to ensure the entire breed is as healthy as possible, and that buyers get the most healthy pups possible. By testing for things like eye, cardiac, and joint issues and by DNA testing for several common genetic conditions common to golden retrievers, I can ensure I am doing all I can to produce healthy puppies that grow into long-lived, healthy dogs. I test for all the things the GRCA wants its breeders to test for, and do additional testing, as well. For example, all my current breeding animals get heart clearances by echocardiogram, not only by auscultation. While there is no way to guarantee nothing bad will ever happen, I want to do everything I can to reduce or in some cases even eliminate the risk. How do you choose to do a particular breeding? My dogs are purposefully bred, versatile golden retrievers. I have kept or co-own at least one dog from almost every breeding I have done. One of my goals with all of my breedings is to produce pups I would want to keep for myself, and that I will be proud to have in the various competition venues representing my kennel. I also want them to be much loved companion golden retrievers. To meet those goals, I need to produce long-lived, healthy, correct, versatile dogs that can do all the things a golden is supposed to be able to do. I look for health and longevity when picking a sire, and I look for dogs that are physically correct meet the breed standard , have the correct golden disposition, and will be a good match for my girls. Many of the sires of my litters have produced well in the past, which is a good indicator of what they'll produce with my girls. For some breedings, I am looking for dogs with certain skills or capabilities prominent in the pedigrees. In others I am looking to improve upon what I have, to better some area I feel could be improved in my dogs on the whole. I am also careful not to lose the features I particularly like and that are correct in my dogs. I spend many, many hours reviewing pedigrees, observing dogs and talking to breeders and owners about their dogs, as well as others who may be familiar with their pedigrees from before I started watching those things. For the time being, you won't be able to meet both parents here at my home when you visit. My dogs are all related too closely to breed them to each other. In fact, I have done breedings with long deceased sires, choosing to use their frozen semen because they are very well known quantities; they have adult pups out there that help me evaluate what the sire will bring to a breeding, and I have life-long health and longevity information on both the sire and his other offspring. In other cases, I have had semen shipped from the far reaches of the country. This capability gives me the opportunity to expand the gene pool I use in my breedings, and I can search out the healthiest and best matches for my girls. I also have done local breedings by live cover, but it is a great benefit not to be limited by access to only local boys. What will our relationship be after one of your pups comes home with me? I usually set up closed Facebook groups for each litter so puppy buyers can stay in touch with each other, ask questions of me or each other, and so folks can share pictures, triumphs, and news. I have found it a great way to stay in touch, but not everyone is on Facebook, and those who are may not be frequent Facebook users. Be assured I am always accessible to answer your questions, and will always be happy to take your dog back and find him or her a great new home in the event you are no longer able to care for your pup due to health, personal, financial, or any other reasons. None of my dogs need ever become rescue dogs. I love these pups from a time before they are even born, and will always do what is best for them. I even have buyers that have put it in their wills that their dogs come back to me when the time comes, because they know I will put the dogs first. What are your requirements in terms of spay or neuter? For a good number of years, peer reviewed studies and vets and breeders whom I trust have agreed that early spay or neuter is very dangerous to the short- and long-term health of dogs. Everything from orthopedic issues, cancers, and fear of storms can be blamed in part on early spay and neuter. At the very least, I want my dogs to remain intact not spayed or neutered for long enough for the hormones to do their job getting the pups' bones and bodies to maturity. For girls, they should remain intact for at least two heat cycles, and for boys ideally until at least 2 years. I can tell you my boys do not reach full physical maturity until around three, so for their bones, joints, and skulls and other things less obvious to fully mature, I'd prefer they not be neutered ever, but at least not until they are three. Neutering a dog does not affect his instinct to mark. Training affects that. Neutering does not affect his instinct to mount other dogs as a dominance play. Training does. Neutering an aggressive dog does not alleviate his aggressiveness. Neutering a dog does greatly increase his risk of cancers common in goldens. You can often identify a dog spayed or neutered young by its disproportionately long, gangly legs. Those growth plates in the legs were still open when the hormones were removed from the dog, and growth no longer could continue in a balanced way. Buyers are often looking for good bone and big heads on their goldens, particularly the boys. Those things come with maturity while the hormones are intact. What is your guidance on vaccination? My general rule is to keep vaccinations to a minimum. I am not an antivaxer; vaccinations are vital to our dogs' health. For example, without vaccination, parvo kills puppies. I know breeders and dog owners who have lost puppies to parvo. These diseases we vaccinate against are serious. However, I believe in limiting vaccinations to the ones required, at the frequency required. My puppies will have their first round of puppy vaccinations before they go to their homes. After that, vaccinations need only be done if the dog needs additional protection. Titer testing will tell you if that is the case. My foundation bitch received puppy shots and then no further vaccinations other than periodic 3-year rabies as required by law where I live. At her senior physical at age 9, she was found by titer testing to still be fully protected against those things she was vaccinated against as a pup. Research what vaccinations are recommended where you live. Leptospirosis is common in some areas, very rare in others. The various dog influenza vaccines do not protect against all strains of flu, do not last long, and are not fully effective. Balancing the risk of infection essentially a contagious cough unless the infected dog has underlying conditions that make it hard to fight the infection against the effectiveness of the vaccine, consider if it is really worth putting those chemicals into your dog's body. Bordetella kennel cough vaccination is required by some boarding facilities, so you may feel forced to get that. However, it also does not protect against all strains, is not fully effective, and does not last long. I do not vaccinate for Bordetella. It is a cough that lasts several days, and can be treated if it is bacterial. In addition, I recommend vaccinating smartly - the fewer vaccinations given at a time, the less risk for complications. Vaccinating a dog weakened by some other condition or illness, for example an infection, can also lead to complications or reactions. Don't let a vet pressure you into doing anything unsafe for your dog. Your puppy can't advocate for him- or herself, and needs you to look out for him or her.