how much to feed a puppy labradoodle

It gives them a much-needed boost early on — with regard to healthy growth, weight and general health. It contains lots of protein and the ingredients make it easy to digest for your pup. Perfect for breeds that love to chow down and move around a lot, this wet food will support your loyal Labrador pup. Plus, there's a variation with a multipack. FAQs How much food does a Labrador puppy need? Thankfully, many of our picks above keep things easy for us by having a feeding guide, which can be found at the back of the packet or online. Which health problems are common in Labradors? For prevention, acquire your pups from a reputable breeder that cares about the welfare of your pups. With this, ask about necessary screenings and tests. Hip dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a condition resulting from abnormal formation of the hip socket which causes the hip to deteriorate, says Purina. So, how do we spot this? Unfortunately, this condition can lead to arthritis in the future — so, we suggest screening your Labrador for this. Elbow dysplasia Elbow dysplasia is similar to the former - but with the elbow. Surgery may be necessary if the condition worsens to restore range of motion. Again, we recommend screening this on potential Labrador pups with an elbow scoring scheme. Arthritis Arthritis is a common health problem in Labradors. This is a result of their size, and it puts a strain on their joints. It can be caused by trauma to the neck or throat — or even hypothyroidism. Unfortunately, your Lab puppy is more at risk of this disease, and they may gain weight as a result. As well as this, your Labrador may lose their fur, experience lethargy and stay away from the cold. We recommend a slow feeder dog bowl to help them eat calmly. After all, obesity is a serious health issue with this breed and can lead to other issues. Common in larger breed dogs, this condition can cause sight loss over time. Specifically, Purina claims that Labradors are prone to an inherited variation, known as rod-cone degeneration, which can be fatal. Though an endearing element of their appearance, Purina claims that this breed is more susceptible to ear infections. For example, Tricuspid valve dysplasia TVD is a common issue in Labradors, which mainly affects male dogs from birth. In severe cases, this can lead to heart failure. But, most dogs with mild TVD can live happily. Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us. Want to buy the most comfortable bed for your pet dog? Check out these reversible and comfortable beds that look great, are durable and ensure comfort. This food can promote proper digestive health and metabolism in your pet labrador to ensure proper health and growth. You need to serve this food according to the age and weight of your pet to ensure that your pet gets the right nutrients. Being a delicious blend of chicken and vegetables, your pet dog will love to have this dog food every day. This kg bag is a nutritious option to keep your pet healthy and active, and is tailored to the specific needs of Labradors. This premium dog food promotes healthy digestion, strong muscles and a shiny coat as it is rich in essential nutrients. The exquisite taste of real chicken and healthy vegetables make every meal a treat for Labradors. With Pedigree, you can give your faithful pet the nutrients and energy it needs for a life of wagging tails and endless play. This precisely balanced blend meets the individual needs of Labradors and ensures that your dog stays healthy and active. This premium dog food promotes healthy digestion, strong muscles and a shiny coat with an abundance of essential nutrients. Labradors will savor every bite of the authentically delicious chicken and wholesome rice. Chappi provides your faithful four-legged friend with the nutrients and energy he needs for tireless tail wagging and active outings. Make the right choice for Chappi, because your Labrador deserves nothing less. Plus, there's now a fantastic "Buy 1 Get 1 Free" offer. This premium dog food is the key to keeping your pet strong and full of energy, as it is specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of Labradors. It supports healthy digestion, strong muscles and a shiny coat as it is enriched with essential nutrients. Every bite of real chicken is enjoyed by Labradors, making dinner a pleasure. Meat Up prioritizes the health of your loyal pet by providing the nutrition and energy they need for non-stop play and tail wagging. About the Author Aarohy Kapoor Aarohy has been working in the field of digital content for more than 5 years. She has written on tech, sports, health, food, pets and others. She is a storyteller since childhood and can go on talking for hours. And that just makes her write something new every day! When not working, you will find Aarohy painting, watching cricket matches, cooking, reading books or being around animals. Read More. This thoughtfully crafted dog food is formulated to meet the unique nutritional requirements of Labrador Retriever puppies up to 15 months old. It contains premium proteins and prebiotics for optimal digestion and energy. With vitamin E and minerals, it supports the immune system and overall health. The kibble size and texture promote dental health. This puppy food provides a tasty and balanced diet to support healthy growth and development, making it an excellent choice for Labrador Retriever puppy owners. This nutritious dog food is made with real chicken and eggs and provides essential vitamins and minerals for healthy digestion, immune function, and overall well-being. It also supports strong bones and healthy skin and coat. Its balanced nutrition and delicious taste make it a satisfying choice for adult Labrador dogs. This high-quality dog food offers a complete nutritional profile at a reasonable price, making it an excellent value-for-money option for pet parents seeking to provide their dogs with a nutritious diet. How to find the best Labrador dog food? Selecting the optimal dog food for your Labrador necessitates the meticulous evaluation of various factors. Look for high-quality ingredients: Choose dog foods that contain high-quality proteins, carbohydrates, and fats and are free from artificial preservatives and fillers. Choose a formula for Labrador Retrievers: Some dog food brands offer recipes designed explicitly for Labrador Retrievers, considering their unique nutritional needs. Suitability with age: Age factors matter a lot when choosing Labrador dog food. Puppies, adult dogs, and seniors have different dietary requirements, so select a formula appropriate for your dog's age. Read the online reviews to get an idea of how other dog owners feel about a particular dog food brand. You may be interested in Product. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Once they reach eight weeks, changing to dry kibble food is best. We recommend feeding a Labrador puppy dry kibble for the first months before changing to an adult food type. But to remain healthy, owners should know what to feed them. Dog owners should feed a Labrador puppy dry food kibble , wet food, or fresh human food, depending on their budget and lifestyle. There are many options for food for dogs, and it can become challenging to determine which one is the best option for the dog. We have found the best options and listed them below. They help us with our daily tasks, are always there when we need them, and bring great joy to our lives. But, it is essential to ensure that our dog gets the best nutrition possible. They have a lot of energy and need to be fed accordingly. This includes the number of calories, food type, and the number of meals per day. We will explain all of these factors to help understand what to feed these precious animals. A Labrador puppy needs high-quality protein in their diet, so they should not be fed just any type of food. This is why we recommend three food options: dry food or kibble, fresh food or human food, or wet food. We prefer using dry food or kibble in most cases, but it is beneficial to start with wet food for young puppies and transition to dry food after a few weeks. Feeding a puppy human food is possible, but it can be more expensive and requires extra work to stick to a cleaner diet at this age. We have found it to be a healthier and more convenient option for our pets. It is also a good alternative to wet food which can be difficult to store and prepare. The benefits of dry dog food are that it offers the pup a balanced diet that doesn't need refrigeration. It also offers convenience because we can buy it in bulk and store it in the pantry or freezer until needed. Dry dog food is also less expensive than wet food, which is another benefit for pet owners. Fresh Food Human Food Feeding a Labrador puppy a diet of fresh, real human food is one of the best things to do for their health and well-being. It will not only make them happy and content, but it will also keep them healthy. This eliminates the guessing game; they are only fed real, natural foods with no unknown ingredients. However, it will become expensive and require regular cooking and preparation. Wet Food Wet food is recommended for Labrador puppies when they are first born and for the first weeks while they grow. It can be either raw or cooked. Wet food is a good source of water and minerals, which are important in the early days of their life to help them grow strong bones and teeth. It should be given to a puppy as soon as it comes out of its mother's womb, but it must not be given before it starts eating solid foods because it will cause diarrhea. Once they get more mature, moving to kibbles is best. It is known for its low level of grain and carbohydrate content and high protein content. Once they reach the week mark, there are better options to help the puppy continue to develop and grow. This food also helps with digestion and weight management. It also promotes proper bone growth with antioxidants and necessary nutrients like vitamin E. The kibble is also shaped strategically to help puppies who chew fast while helping with jaw growth. Overall, this is the best food option for a Labrador puppy. It is designed for all life stages, from puppies to seniors, and we love the benefits it provides to younger labs. The product features a blend of highly digestible proteins, omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, taurine, and glucosamine. This ensures the dog gets the nutrition they need while also reducing the risk of digestive tract problems such as bloat or pancreatitis. It also has a low glycemic index and no corn, wheat, or soy in the recipe. Dog owners can also expect an excellent protein ratio when using this food. Both veterinarians and nutritionists have recognized it for its high-quality ingredients for young puppies. The Acana High Protein formula is made with a blend of chicken, turkey, and fish meals, whole eggs, and natural beef or lamb meal. The product has a limited ingredient list with no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. It also has no added sugar and a low glycemic index. This food also contains probiotics and prebiotics to help the pet maintain a healthy immune system. This is the perfect dry dog food for puppies after eight weeks old. This brand is also very affordable for those who want to feed their dog a healthy diet without breaking the bank. It features a patented recipe that helps to promote healthy digestion, strong teeth and gums, healthy skin and shiny coat, a strong immune system, healthy joints and muscles, and a healthy heart. This is a high-protein food option for Labradors too. It promotes lean muscle growth and improved body health with omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics 5. It is made with high-quality ingredients and has a great taste and texture for labs to enjoy. This food is to help with puppy development and is suitable for all Labradors under one-year-old. This wet food provides the perfect balance of healthy proteins to support a dog's growth while providing the energy they need to maintain its fitness levels. This can be fed as a meal or as an occasional snack between meals. It has no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or added sugar. It also contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which are important for healthy skin and the dog's coat. They are large, strong, intelligent dogs that need a lot of attention, exercise, and food. These dogs can be picky eaters and usually need a lot of calories because of their size. This is especially true for puppies so they can grow properly and remain healthy due to their increased risk of health issues. Food Type Labrador puppies' most popular dog foods are kibbles and canned wet food. Kibbles are the best option for a puppy because they are easy to chew and digest. Canned food is a good option for pups who have difficulty chewing or digesting dry food and would benefit from a little moisture in their diet. The food type also depends on the owner. Dry food or kibbles are faster to prepare, while serving human food to a lab puppy requires extensive prep time. Nutritional Value When it comes to nutritional value, we want dog food that has high-quality protein and carbohydrates. This will help the puppy grow strong and healthy. This is why we need to take into account the nutritional value, quality of ingredients, and taste. It should be made with all-natural ingredients that are sourced from human-grade materials such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. A brand should have all the essential nutrients for a pup but still, be low in toxic elements and preservatives too. Dietary Restrictions Lastly, consider the dietary restrictions of the Labrador puppy before choosing a dog food option. This includes any allergies or health concerns for the dog and shopping for something that suits them best. For example, lab puppies must reach a certain carbohydrate and protein number daily. Labradors are also known to have allergies, especially young ones, so planning around this is crucial. A puppy should be fed at least three times a day, with a meal size that is appropriate for its body weight. They should also be given small daily snacks to keep them satisfied and happy, including treats to help with training. We feed our puppies the best that we can. We want to give them all the nutrients and vitamins they need. We also want to make sure that they are getting a balanced diet. The most important thing when feeding a Labrador puppy is that they get enough calories from their food every day. In the first weeks, the puppy should eat four smaller daily meals. Once the lab reaches three months, this can be changed to three meals per day. And after months, we recommend two meals per day. The key is not to change the calories much when the meals change but to simply modify the size of each meal to fit the total daily food amount. Feeding a Labrador puppy is not rocket science, but there are some things everybody should know about what to feed them and when to feed them. We have covered this basis, but changes need to be made as they age. This leads to a common question about changing food to fit the needs of a grown adult Labrador. The dog's age will determine how quickly they grow and how much energy they need. Lab puppies can stick with kibbles for up to 12 months. Increase portions as your puppy grows. Be sure to follow the rule of dog treats. This is about changes over time. Nutritional deficiency or excess can lead to disease and ultimately death. You may have noticed that your dog has dandruff after changing food, but the food is really good — try adding levels of zinc and vitamin A. Your main task as a pet owner is to monitor the health of a small family member and be responsible for this life. Image credit: canva. The first one is a protein that can be found in meat, poultry, fish, yogurt, and cooked eggs. Protein is responsible for the structure of muscles and tissues, as well as the formation and growth of new cells. In the diet for a Labrador puppy, it is imperative to include carbohydrates that are found in brown rice, potatoes, and wheat. Carbohydrates supply the body with glucose, which is responsible for the functioning of the brain and nervous system. An obligatory component of dog food is fats. It is a source of energy, development, and functioning of the cells and muscles of the body. Fats are included in oil and even fish oil. Puppy food for Labs or any other dog includes a certain amount of minerals such as calcium, potassium, sodium, iron, zinc, magnesium, and others. Minerals in dog food form bones and cartilage and balance the nerves. It promotes the production of hormones in the Lab puppies, regulates the balance of fluids in the body, and transports oxygen into the blood. Like people, dog and puppy foods should include plenty of water. Water is life! Once in the body, they strengthen bones, and teeth and fill the Labrador puppy with energy. Cost point Every time you buy pet food, you think about the issue of price. Of course, cost is important when making a purchasing decision. You should be aware that higher-quality puppy food can cost more than the average price. Your dog is an irreplaceable member of your family, which must be protected and loved with all your heart. Risks and diseases Lab owners should know well about all risks and diseases that their dogs may face. Numerous studies confirm that the Labrador Retriever breed is prone to digestive sensitivities and skin allergies due to irritating foods. This leads to pruritic diseases. Skin allergies and problems with the gastrointestinal tract are severe. Labs are prone to obesity. Maintaining a healthy weight and body is considered an important point of caring for a dog. In general, Labrador Retrievers should have a taut, hourglass-shaped figure. Obesity puts additional stress on bones and joints and makes it difficult to stay healthy. To combat weight gain, you need to exercise your dog with certain physical exercises, follow a proper diet, control portion sizes, and receive treats. Another disease caused by malnutrition is Gastric dilatation-volvulus. In short, this is boating. Indigestion is a severe problem that should not be ignored. The worst risk is death from the musculoskeletal disorder of muscles, nerves, joints, arthritis, and spinal discs. Also, you should be aware that feed processing of dog foods affects the occurrence and development of cancer. Dry food is cooked at a very high temperature, which leads to the formation of harmful chemical elements in the body of the dog. Such food also contains carbohydrates, which break down into cancer-causing glucose. You can combine dog food with homemade recipe food for your pet yourself. Moreover, it is a good way of feeding your dog if the dog food at home is over or there is very little left, but you need to extend the time until the next purchase. Dogs fed solely on home-cooked or combined diets lived for about 13 years, while those fed only processed food lived for about 10 years. Like human food, it can be chewed easily. Food is broken down in the body so that key nutrients are absorbed more quickly. Such food facilitates digestion and relaxes the stomach. Reducing stress on the digestive system reduces the likelihood of bloating. If you still decide to cook homemade food, follow the rules. Study each ingredient. Cook all animal products for the exact finish to kill harmful bacteria. Risks of homemade dog food Most of the problems are caused by a misunderstanding of the nutritional needs of the Labrador. If you do not understand the effect of food on the body of your pet, which reaction is correct and which can lead to negative consequences and different stages of life, contact a professional veterinarian who can tell you in detail about the effect of food on the body of a dog and how to properly form a pet diet. What food is best for a Labrador puppy? We made for you the list of the best puppy food for Labrador puppies. We can highlight the most noteworthy products from this list. Should I feed my Lab puppy dry or wet food? Mix dry and wet food. What is better to choose — opinions are different. But if you are in doubt about which puppy food to choose, consult your veterinarian. What is the recommended amount of water for a puppy? Older pups that have been nursed require one-half ounce to one ounce of water per pound of body weight. What do you feed an 8-week-old Lab puppy? An 8-week-old puppy should be fed several small meals a day. After 14 weeks, the Lab puppy can switch to two meals a day. Food for a Labrador puppy should be full of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals for healthy development. Giving treats is fine, but remember that Labradors are prone to overeating and gaining weight quickly. Also, try to give treats for obedience. You can choose canned food and dry food for your dog as you wish but you should always think about the effect of this dog food on your dog. Hope this article was helpful for you and that your pet will grow healthy and strong. 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. Your Lab puppy is going to require a different balance of nutrients than an adult Lab. Different dog breeds are susceptible to different genetic health conditions. Larger breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Nutrition plays a vital role in preventing certain health issues. In recent years concern has been raised about a possible link between grain-free and non-grain-free diets that list legumes high on their ingredient list causing heart disease. This may be of consequence to Labradors as the breed is more prone to heart conditions than others. This does not just include Labs, but owners of any large or giant dog breed should be aware of this important information so they can make the most well-informed decision. Image Credit: Didkovska Ilona, Shutterstock Choosing the Best Food While having a list of the best puppy foods is a great start, you still must narrow it down to one. So, how does one choose from a list of great choices? Below we will cover some of the most important things to consider before making your final choice. What Does Your Veterinarian Recommend? Chances are that your veterinarian has dealt with purebred Labrador Retrievers many times before. Dog Food Brand You want to ensure you are choosing a dog food brand that is reputable. Finding a brand that is made with veterinary nutritionists and is backed by scientific research is ideal. If a brand advertises that they participate in AAFCO feeding trials, this means they have invested in research to ensure there are no nutritional deficiencies in the food. The ingredients in any pet food will help you determine the quality of the food. Look for foods that contain real meat as the number one ingredient. Below is a list of ingredients that are best avoided: Ingredients to Avoid.

Jump on live chat or leave a message. Dog Food For Golden Retrievers With tons of energy, large and fast-growing bones and a higher-chance of hip and joint issues than other breeds, the perfect Golden Retriever dog food is high in quality meat protein, well balanced and low in inflammatory ingredients. The perfect Goldie grub should keep them going all day, supporting their stacks of energy without the crash. Most importantly, they need the perfect nutritional balance to keep them growing safely, from puppyhood right through to the golden oldies. Cheap, powdered and over-processed ingredients are a common culprit. Scratch uses meat from the human food supply chain and tops off each recipe with healthy oils for a resilient gut, shiny coat and tough immune system. Itchy skin and a dull coat becomes a thing of the past. It should be sustaining them with top-quality ingredients, cutting out filler and enriching their health with wholefoods. Dry food, wet food, freshly prepared or home-cooked, most of the dog food brands out there miss the mark. Scratch puts better ingredients in, and you get a healthier dog out. Pretty simple but business gets in the way. So, is dry dog food bad? No — much of it is but Scratch is the dry dog food should be. Read more about our kibble philosophy Why kibble vs. Dry dog food is the most convenient, preserved by dehydration and receives a quick temperature kill-step to ensure all microorganisms are eliminated. Compare Scratch to: Raw food Raw food diets are great as they have no processing, but it can be hard to get a complete and balanced diet from raw food alone. It also has other drawbacks like being fresh only for a few days, potential microorganisms such as e-coli, salmonella etc. Cooked protein is also easier to digest than raw. Wet food Wet dog food is processed at a high temperature for a long period while sealed to ensure that all micro-organisms are killed. It generally tastes great but contains mostly water and a lot of gelling agents to make the gravy. Freeze-dried food Freeze-dried grub is generally higher quality than a lot of the dog food out there, but comes with its own drawbacks. Or chilled food? Like dry dog food , chilled dog food has the kill step to eradicate pathogens. It has a short shelf life and is often treated with a lot of preservatives to last the time from factory to home. The protein will come from readily available sources such as chicken or beef, and not exotic or boutique sources like kangaroo or venison as you saw in second study mentioned above. According to the AKC , quality, regulated animal byproducts can be good for your dog. These byproducts can include organ meats or entrails, which often contain more nutrients than, say, plain chicken breast. Another misconception is that dogs should eat grain-free diets. As you saw in the second study mentioned above, that can actually be very harmful for your dog and cause DCM. But food labels can be a little vague and confusing, so below is an explanation of what some of these terms mean, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual and the AKC. There is one caveat though. For instance, flaked corn, ground corn, and kibbled corn could be sprinkled in an ingredient list and not be listed as the first few ingredients, but in reality, if you were to add them all up they are all corn, after all , you might find that this food is made mostly of corn. The same goes for chicken, chicken meal, and chicken byproduct. Meat vs. Meat Meal vs. The quality of these ingredients can vary widely, so be sure to talk to your vet about this and choose a reputable brand of food. Below are a few examples: Obesity. Golden Retrievers love food and they do have a tendency to become overweight if you let them. This problem can often affect these next two problems… Joint issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to joint issues and growing too fast because they eat too much can often make this problem worse more on this in the next section. Heart issues. Skin issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to hot spots and excess protein in their diets can be a factor that causes them. Many goldens suffer from food allergies. One cup of Brand X food may have calories per cup, while Brand Y has calories per cup. During a vet visit our veterinarian said he looked too small and lethargic for a puppy his age about 8 weeks at the time , and he recommended we feed him a little more. As far as how often to feed your puppy, this same rule applies. For us, we fed Oliver three times per day until he was a little over a year old. Getting a Golden Retriever Puppy? Get the gameplan for raising them right with the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Those two statements may sound random, but they are related. According to the Banfield Pet Hospital , overfeeding your Golden Retriever can cause them to grow too fast and increase their risk of hip dysplasia. You probably noticed that a raw diet was the fourth-most popular diet Golden Retriever owners feed their dog. Since puppies are growing and adults are just maintaining their weight, they have different dietary needs. And for fats, puppy food should have at least 8. As far as when to switch from puppy food to adult food, talk to your veterinarian. To see a list of other milestones your puppy will hit like when they lose their first teeth, or when their coat is fully grown check out this timeline of Golden Retriever puppy milestones. Like most of the other questions in this post, this is something to talk to your veterinarian about. Many foods will have the same vitamins that pills have already in them, but on the other hand, some breeders require that you give your puppy vitamins for their health guarantee to be valid. First, we unknowingly started him off on one of the brands listed in the graph above that is correlated with DCM. Then we switched to another brand that he just sort of liked. If we were to have another puppy, we would definitely start with the Royal Canin Golden Retriever Puppy food. How To Switch Food Brands The other day I was talking to someone who was complaining that her puppy was having lots of stomach issues. Dogs have sensitive stomachs so if you want to switch foods, you need to do it slowly. You should take about a week to transition from the old food to the new brand. Also consider how long the brand of food has been around, whether or not there have been any recalls of that brand, and if there is any research behind it. What do you feed your Golden Retriever puppy? Have any questions about what to feed them? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. Royal Canin makes dry food tailored explicitly to particular breeds. Its Golden food variation uses chicken and brown rice ingredients to support digestive health, strong bones, and a healthy coat. Gorgeous coats, healthy body conditions, great activity levels- perfect puppies! With a combination of healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables, and more, this dry dog food will encourage healthy muscle development in your Golden Retriever as well as strong teeth, a healthy heart, and improved skin and coat texture. Looking at the ingredients makes me feel that I have purchased a quality product for my guy. With ingredients like real protein, fruits, and vegetables, this dry food increases energy, strengthens bones, improves immune strength, and neutralizes free radicals. Her coat is healthier and shiny. She even trimmed down a little as her old dog food was making her fat. They produce high-quality dog food for your Golden Retriever at an affordable price. Veterinarians recommend IAMS Proactive Health because it uses ingredients like animal protein and antioxidant-rich veggies to nourish your dog and meet their complete health needs. Highly recommend it. Good for maintaining a decent weight too. Gobbles it down! With fish as the main protein, this kibble promotes a gorgeous coat and healthy skin and improves digestive issues. He eats it enthusiastically, and it has really helped him thrive! He is energetic, has a gorgeous coat, and devours his meals! She is a much happier dog. The Save Shredded Puppy Blend includes probiotics to help ease the digestion in growing Golden Retriever puppies with sensitive stomachs. I mix it with wet food, and he loves it. He loves the chunks of shredded chicken! I highly recommend it. This large-breed dry food can help your Golden Retriever maintain a healthy coat and great skin as well as smooth digestion. All of them love this food! Their coats are shiny and soft, and their poops are small! The exclusive formula also increases energy levels! We tried another brand, and it caused all kinds of allergic reactions. We went back to Eagle Pack, and all is right again. Great product! That may be because they have a senior Golden Retriever who is struggling with dental issues or feel that dehydrated food options are healthier. This particular food contains real protein and essential nutrients that can benefit dogs of all ages. Once we got this, she became a food-crazed puppy! This food includes a combination of freeze-dried raw-coated kibble with real pieces of freeze-dried raw meat! This variety has lots of meat sources plus several strains of probiotics. In general, your dog will benefit from puppy food from about 8 weeks of age until they are six months to a year old. Check with your vet to determine the right time to switch from a puppy food to one for adult dogs, as recommendations vary based on the size of your dog. A few days later, you can begin making it a half-and-half blend. Make sure to watch for loose stool from your pup as you transition — if you notice that your Golden is struggling with the new diet, wait for a few days before increasing the blend. When in doubt, check with your vet! Most dog foods come with specific volumes listed on the side. Overfeeding your pet can lead to a variety of health concerns. To determine what food will suit your dog the best, check out 17 of the top dog foods on the market for Golden Retrievers, no matter their age. Check with your vet to determine whether your Golden will need any special dietary considerations. Foods considered toxic to Golden Retrievers are macadamia nuts, chocolate, onions, garlic cloves, grapes, raisins, walnuts, alcohol, and any foods sweetened with xylitol. Try to avoid feeding your Golden food containing any of these ingredients. Grain is an essential component to the diet of Golden Retrievers. The absence of grain has been known to lead to a deficiency in taurine, which can potentially cause heart problems for your golden. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Sizes Dog Food Protein Content The pet food label usually expresses its content as a percentage instead of an amount. Animal-based proteins are complete and contain all the essential amino acids. Grains are another excellent protein source, albeit they may not have all these building blocks. The important thing is that the puppy food meets this minimum standard to ensure healthy development. Dog Food Fat Content Fat is a vital macronutrient that offers an excellent source of energy and the raw materials for the synthesis of good cholesterol. The recommended amounts differ radically in puppies and dogs, making a solid case for giving your pet food appropriate for its life stage. Of course, they also need it for growth and development. Dog Food Ingredients Pet food is regulated with required labeling to help you choose the best food for your Golden Retriever puppy. One of these requirements is a nutritional adequacy statement. That informs you about the life stage of the product. Manufacturers must identify the ingredients in their products, starting with the one that makes up the most weight. We can also say something similar about so-called human-grade pet foods. No formal definition exists for the term. The other concern lies with what manufacturers substitute for the grains. Some evidence suggests a potential link between the substituted ingredients and this disorder. Golden Retrievers have shown a higher rate of DCM and low taurine levels, which can cause it too. These dogs can synthesize taurine in their bodies. However, this breed has a propensity for not producing enough. That makes taurine in the ingredient list something we always check. Dog Food Sizes Most manufacturers produce several sizes of dog food. However, bear in mind that larger ones are usually a better value. Also, your puppy will grow quickly—along with its appetite. We suggest keeping both factors in mind when choosing a product. Final Verdict Ollie Fresh dog food came out on top in our series of reviews. We were impressed with the natural ingredient list and focus on nutrition. Read more Advertisement. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. But there are so many choices. The pet food industry has exploded in recent years. Remember though that, if you intend to switch your dog to a new diet, do so over the course of seven to 10 days to help avoid intestinal upsets or diarrhea. Types of Foods The main types of commercial foods are dry, moist, dehydrated, and fresh. As a large-breed dog, it would take a lot of moist food to properly feed a golden. Why Do the Ingredients of a Food Matter? Of course, your golden is a highly intelligent and sociable dog. Unfortunately, goldens have a higher-than-average incidence of cancer. But AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles consist only of minimum values for all the nutrients required by dogs and maximum values for just a few nutrients that can be toxic if consumed in excessive amounts. But, even with such regulation, not all foods are created equal. Feeding a food with low-quality ingredients may contribute to chronic inflammation and obesity. And chronic inflammation can contribute to arthritis, diabetes, cancer, and infection. Foods should be made from wholesome, natural ingredients with no fillers, by-products, or artificial additives. They should be rich in high-quality animal sources such as poultry, meat, and fish. Our beloved goldens are one of the breeds most likely to become obese. If your dog becomes obese, you can even ask your vet about prescription weight-loss diets. There are certain requirements foods should meet. The Merck Veterinary Manual states that adult dogs require a minimum of 18 percent of protein in their diets, whereas puppies require at least 22 percent protein. A good food should contain healthy meats and fats. They should also contain fruits and vegetables. And, of course, the proper mix of vitamins and minerals for optimal health. Natural preservatives such as tocopherols vitamin E , vitamin C, or rosemary extract should be used rather than artificial ones. Large breed dogs and puppies have different nutritional requirements than small breeds do. They grow more quickly than breeds who are small or medium-sized as adults. Golden retriever puppies have a greater risk of developing a crippling form of hip disease if fed a diet that contains too much calcium. Adult goldens can be fed any high-quality kibble or a kibble specifically for large breed dogs. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association AVMA , large-breed dogs have shorter lifespans than their smaller counterparts and can be considered seniors when five or six years old. The veterinary community has also been compiling and analyzing data on diet-related DCM in dogs. DCM is a disease in which the heart muscle weakens, leading to the loss of the ability to contract normally and pump blood through the body. Symptoms of DCM can include weakness, lethargy, shortness of breath, fainting, and the inability of exercise. It can become life-threatening. The link between grain-free foods and DCM is still being investigated, as there are many variables to be considered. Note that some dogs are allergic to certain grains and may need to avoid them. But this is best decided by a veterinarian, especially a board-certified nutritionist. Diseases which impact goldens, such as inflammatory bowel disease or atopic skin diseases and allergies, have a strong link to the foods they ingest. And, in determining how much to feed, the manufacturers of pet foods provide guidelines on their labels. But remember that the guidelines are just that. You can always adjust the amount of food he eats depending on his weight and health. In addition to doing your own research, you can consult your vet or a veterinary nutritionist to determine which food and amount would be best for your golden. But remember: there is no one perfect food for any dog. And choosing a high-quality food may also reduce his risk of health problems. What Do the Terms on the Label Mean? The labels on pet foods can be confusing. Learning what the terms mean can help you decipher which one is a higher-quality product. The terms on a label are listed in descending amounts of ingredients. So the first few listed are found in larger amounts than those at the bottom of the items listed on the label. Meat Meat is the skeletal muscle of animals as well as tissue from the heart. This may be beef, chicken, pork, lamb, or salmon. This is the animal flesh without any water extracted. Meat Meal It can include only actual meat, skin, and bone, which can be nutritious. But it can legally contain animals who were dying, diseased, deformed, or had died before slaughtering. Meat meals are the product after the excess moisture has been removed from the meat. These include lungs, kidneys, brains, bone, blood, heads, spleens, stomachs, beaks, feet, feathers, and intestines. Unfortunately, like meat meal, it can contain animals who were very sick or dead before slaughtering which need not be disclosed to the consumer. Whole Meats versus Named Protein Meals These are named proteins such as chicken, salmon, beef, and lamb. They can contain up to 70 percent moisture prior to cooking. Named protein meals, such as lamb meal, have that excess moisture removed being processed into kibble. So meals actually have more protein by weight than whole meats do. Fish Meal Fish meal is the clean ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish or fish cuttings, with or without the oil extracted. Ground Corn Ground corn is the entire corn kernel ground or chopped. Corn Gluten Meal Corn gluten meal is the by-product after the manufacture of corn syrup or starch, and is the dried residue after the removal of the bran, germ, and starch. Brewers Rice Brewers rice is the small fragments of rice kernels that have been separated from larger kernels of milled rice. Brown Rice Brown rice is the unpolished rice left over after the kernels have been removed. Soybean Meal Soybean meal is a by-product of the production of soybean oil. Holistic or Natural These are terms that some companies use. But they have no meaning according to the FDA. So beware that such foods may not be what we think of as being holistic or natural. Organic This means that the food is free from antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, and preservatives. Of course, higher-quality ingredients cost more. Also avoid foods that have been overly processed or contain hormones or steroids. Meat by-products and poultry by-products are one of the lower-quality ingredients. Try to avoid them. It can also be restaurant grease. Corn and soy are generally regarded to be inferior ingredients and fillers. Remember that if you feed a high-quality food to your dog without fillers, you often can feed less. And I also considered various foods before making my selection. My dogs are doing well on this food. Goldens love their food and eat a lot because of their size. The Dog Food Advisor is a public service website designed to help you make a more informed decision when buying dog food. The write-ups are taken from those found on the Dog Food Advisor website. The links will also lead to information regarding additional high-rated foods. The formula contains a minimum of 34 percent of named proteins. Its high-protein content helps form strong muscles. The formula includes increased amounts of glucosamine and chondroitin to support bone and joint health in larger-sized dogs. This recipe contains the preferred amount of fat and calories to help maintain a healthy weight for a dog the size of a golden. It has no meat by-products or fillers. And no corn, wheat, or soy. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Large-Breed Chicken Formula The top five ingredients are deboned salmon, chicken meal, pea protein, peas, and tapioca starch, with a minimum of 32 percent protein. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed Chicken is a great option for those looking for higher protein and an optimal blend of calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitamins to help keep bones strong. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids found in fish meal and flaxseed ensure a healthy coat. An ideal blend of protein, fat and carbohydrates are also included to assist your large breed dog in keeping a healthy weight. It also has antioxidants to boost immune health and no poultry by-products. Glucosamine and chondroitin are added for healthy joints. It contains a minimum of 27 percent with named proteins. Now Fresh Large Breed Adult contains balanced proteins and fats from turkey, salmon, and duck. The formula also has antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables such as spinach, cranberries, pumpkin, blackberries, and carrots. These are great for building a strong immune system to help fight disease. This recipe is recommended for dogs over 50 pounds and between 15 months and five years of age. It contains extra nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin for hip and joint care for larger-breed dogs. There are no by-products or artificial preservatives. The formula contains probiotics to support digestion. There is no gluten, wheat, corn, or soy Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Large-Breed Adult Formula The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, sweet potatoes, and potatoes. The food contains a minimum of 38 percent protein. The Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Large Breed recipe contains added glucosamine and chondroitin to help support healthy hip and joint function, essential for large-breed dogs. Omega fatty acids from salmon oil help ensure a healthy skin and coat. A unique raw-infused kibble recipe is loaded with protein. The recipe has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and is gluten free. Purina Pro Plan Adult Dog Food The top five ingredients in this formula are chicken, rice, whole grain wheat, poultry by-product meal, and soybean meal. It has a minimum protein of 26 protein percent. The formula also has live probiotics to support healthy digestion. Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend combines a hard kibble with tender, pieces of real, shredded chicken for enhanced flavor and texture. It has live probiotics to support healthy digestion as well as omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. It contains no artificial colors or flavors. Although this formula is highly-ranked and has been a favorite with consumers, please note that it contains poultry by-product and soybean meal, both of which are often considered to be inferior ingredients. But apparently many consumers have found that their dogs are doing well on this food. Some Suggested Foods for Your Golden Retriever Puppy Of course puppies require a higher amount of protein and fat than adults generally do. But note that adult goldens who are very active, such as dogs who do agility, generally need more protein and fat than other goldens do. But they may not need as much as puppies do. Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy Food The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas, ground brown rice, and salmon meal. The recipe contains a minimum of 32 percent protein. It has 14 percent fat, and 45 percent estimated carbs and has a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44percent. It also has a safe, balanced amount of calcium. Origen Puppy Large Breed Formula The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, deboned turkey, yellowtail flounder, whole eggs, and whole atlantic mackerel. This recipe contains a minimum of 43 percent protein, 18 percent fat and 30percent estimated carbs, creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 41percent. This high-quality food is more expensive than many five-star rated foods. Diamond Naturals Large-Breed Puppy Formula The top five ingredients are lamb, lamb meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, and ground white rice. This budget-friendly food has a dry matter label analysis of 30 percent protein, 17 percent fat, and 45 percent estimated carbs. It has a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56 percent. The dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29 percent protein, 17 percent fat and 46 percent estimated carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58 percent. This is a top-rated food that is budget conscious. Purina Pro Plan Large-Breed Puppy Formula The top five ingredients are chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, and poultry by-product meal. The dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32 percent protein. It also contains 15 percent fat and 45 percent estimated carbs. This yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47 percent. This formula is highly-ranked and has been a favorite with consumers. Purina Pro Plan is what we are currently feeding our guide dog puppies. But, as is true of the adult Pro Plan food listed above, please note that it contains poultry by-product and soybean meal, both of which are often considered to be inferior ingredients. Final Thoughts There are so many choices when selecting a food for your beloved golden retriever. It can really be challenging to find the right food. But remember because there are so many choices, there is no one right food for your pup. Dog food ratings can help make a choice. So can knowing the basics regarding what the terms on a food label mean. Are you thinking of switching foods? Please leave your comments in the section below. Related Article:. They are growing quickly, so while they eat smaller quantities of food than adult dogs, they need to extract far more nutrients like protein, minerals, and vitamins, to sustain their growth and development. Different Dogs, Different Diets Nutritional needs vary from breed to breed. One only needs to look at golden retrievers to know they require a different diet than a Chihuahua! For example, joint and bone problems are much more common in big dogs than in little ones, but choosing the right puppy food can reduce the risk. Large-breed puppy food has reduced amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which helps control the rate of skeletal growth. Also, you may find puppy foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. By consuming too much food, your puppy will have elevated levels of the very nutrients that should be limited. Additionally, overweight puppies may develop other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Good eating habits developed during puppyhood will lead to a healthy mature dog in the years to come. Nutrition For The Outside One of the most visible components of your dog is its fur. Nutrition plays a vital role in this area. A large percentage of the protein your puppy takes in goes towards maintaining its coat. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for healthy skin and fur. Which Food Do I Choose? There will always be those who buy the cheapest brand on the market. Some will opt for the most expensive, while others will simply go with a brand name they recognize. The key is to find the right food for your particular puppy. One thing you cannot afford to ignore is the nutritional content. Because they are still growing, puppies need more protein than adults. Proteins foster muscle growth and development in puppies and lean muscle maintenance in adults, so the more of it there is in a diet, the better it is for your growing retriever. Fats, too, are important for golden puppies because they provide the energy required for everyday activities. You should be careful, however, not to feed your golden excess calories because this will result in excess weight or obesity. Eventually, your dog will end up battling joint problems. For instance, less expensive dog foods typically have lower-quality ingredients. The contents are often inexpensive, low-grade animal protein sources, like by-products and fillers. Fillers are frequently things like cornmeal, rice flour, or seed hulls. In general, thoroughly review the nutritional content of your chosen diet. Are the ingredients wholesome and natural? Does the diet have controlled calcium and phosphorous levels? Is the calorie and fat content limited to manage growth? Does the label state that the diet is complete and balanced? This can lead to obesity and will certainly cause increased defecation. The latter of these two issues will make house training more difficult than it already is. By contrast, costlier dog foods usually have higher-quality ingredients. The scales will be tipped heavily in favor of high-grade animal protein sources and fillers will be few and far between. Price is not, however, a guarantee of quality. The best dog foods for a golden retriever puppy are made with high-quality natural ingredients and have high levels of protein. Make sure the food is complete and balanced for daily feeding and formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. At this point, golden retriever puppies have likely already been switched to dry puppy food and you should continue feeding your pup the same type of food the breeder used. From the day you bring them home until they are six months old, you should feed your golden retriever puppy three times a day. Ideally, your pup should have breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. A grain-free diet is the default meal for golden retrievers that are sensitive to grains, but if your dog is healthy, feeding her such a meal boils down to choice. A lot has been said about grain-free diets. Reports and studies have been carried out in recent years trying to establish any connection between it and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM. That all starts with choosing the best puppy food for golden retrievers. Avoid low-cost foods that are more filler than substance, and look for better foods that are packed with nutrients to help your puppy grow. In particular, consider trying a large breed formula to meet the specific needs of your golden retriever puppy. Good nutrition is an essential part of any health regimen, and providing high-quality puppy food will lay the foundation for a long, and enjoyable life. You May Also Like.

Boxer puppies for sale Odessa, Texas Boxer puppies for sale Odessa, Texas Introduction of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed originated in Germany and has been around since the late 19th century. His main purpose is for hunting large game. But this dog breed was also useful in guarding and driving livestock. It is said that he got his name due to using his front paws for just about anything. Boxer dogs look intimidating with their stern-looking faces and powerful bodies. But they are actually very loving family dogs that get along with children and other animals. They love being with their families, and being separated from them can lead them to develop separation anxiety. Since this working dog is highly intelligent but stubborn in nature, he is better suited for experienced owners. The average lifespan of the breed is 9—10 years. Look for a boxer puppies for sale Odessa Texas? Here is a brief background of this protective dog with a good sense of humour. History of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed is a descendant of the now-extinct Bullenbeisser a fighting dog with Mastiff ancestry and the Old English Bulldog. He was developed in Germany in the 19th century as hunters of deer, wild boar, and bear. Later on, he was used to guard and drive cattle. The man responsible for the creation of the Boxer breed was Georg Alt, who was from Munich. He crossed a brindle-coloured female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown breed. In , the first German Boxer dog named Flocki joined a dog show in Munich. After winning the dog show, he was the first-ever Boxer dog to be listed down in the German Studbook. Modern Boxer dogs were believed to be the descendants of Flocki. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. The American Boxer Club was established in .In both world wars, various military tasks were given to Boxer dogs including guard dogs, attack dogs, and messenger dogs. The British Boxer Dog Club was then formed in .The Boxer breed was recognised by the Kennel Club shortly thereafter and classified under the Working Group. Versatile and hard-working, these dogs are capable of carrying out different canine work. Boxers are good choices for protection dogs, police dogs, service dogs, and guide dogs for the blind. Temperament and Intelligence of the Boxer puppies Odessa for sale Extremely patient and gentle, the Boxer breed is good with children. But he is recommended for families with older children as he may accidentally knock over toddlers. Befriending other pets is possible if the Boxer dog is properly socialised at a young age. It will keep him from viewing small animals as prey and reduce his tendency to dominate same-sex dogs. Is a Boxer a good family dog? Yes, the Boxer breed is a good family dog. He may look noble and intimidating, but he is actually considered the Joker of the Dog World. Boxer dogs are playful and fun-loving. They love to be part of family activities and be the centre of attention. Are Boxer dogs dangerous? Boxer dogs may be tough-looking, but they are not generally aggressive. But they will stand guard and defend their families if necessary. Boxer dogs are initially wary of strangers, but they eventually warm up to them if no danger is detected. Their protective and loyal nature makes them good guard dogs as well as watchdogs. Are Boxers easy to train? Yes, Boxer dogs are easy to train if you are already experienced in handling the breed. They are intelligent but tend to be independent and stubborn. Due to this, they are not suited for first-time owners. Boxer dogs respond better to people that are firm and consistent. However, firm does not mean harsh. Instead of strict training methods, positive reinforcements are more effective in teaching this breed basic dog manners and tricks. Boxer Breed Highlights The Boxer dog breed is a loving, loyal, and protective companion. Boxer dogs are comical companions despite their intimidating appearance. The Boxer breed has low-maintenance grooming needs. As an energetic working dog, he has high exercise needs. Boxer dogs tend to be destructive when they are left alone or unable to let off steam. Are there miniature boxers? Yes, but they are rare. Miniature boxers are either a product of mating purebred runts or cross-breeding small dogs that have similar characteristics to boxers, such as Boston terriers, pugs, rat terriers, and fox terriers. While some of these minis may closely resemble their larger counterparts, they may not act similarly. Are boxers hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, boxers are not hypoallergenic. What problems do Boxers have? Boxer dogs are brachycephalic, which means they have flat faces. This trait narrows their airway and causes breathing problems. As a result, Boxers should not be out in the sun for a long time as it can lead to heatstroke. Overexercising them must be avoided too to avoid triggering breathing difficulties. How long do Boxer dogs live? The Boxer dog breed has a short lifespan compared to other dogs. He can only live up to 9—10 years, and this is due to the prevalence of health issues in the breed. When buying a Boxer puppy, look for a reputable breeder whose breeding stock and litters are health-screened. This will help you determine how likely is your chosen Boxer puppy going to develop certain health conditions. Odessa TX Odessa is said to have been named after Odessa, Ukraine, because of the local shortgrass prairie's resemblance to Ukraine's steppe landscape. We will not send you unnecessary notices in the future. My name is Tetyana and I am glad to welcome you on the site of the breed nursery. We raise quality bred pups in a family environment. All puppies found here are from AKC-Registered parents. Click the following link for available pups. Personality Traits: Playful, curious, energetic. Since many regard the Boxer as an ideal family dog, you may find a number of places that sell them online. Showing 1 - 19 of 25, results. These puppies come from breeders who offer safe. Boxer puppies for sale in Nebraska from trusted breeders. Boxer puppies for sale in New Mexico from trusted breeders. He is social and plays well with other dogs. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near New Mexico Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Beautiful litter of red and white boxer puppies with Bobtail and Tail. And What Determines The Price. The Molossus blood makes the hardworking Boxer dog courageous, bright, and alert. Looking for Boxer puppies? Lancaster Puppies has Boxers for sale! They're the best dogs for kids. Full European boxer puppies health tested, gentle temperament, proven foundation lineage. Boxer Dog Cost? Available puppies Certified breeders. Boxer puppies in Security-Widefield, CO. Boxer puppies for sale in Phoenix, AZ from trusted breeders. Boxer puppies for sale can. You have found your new baby boy. Boxer puppies in Midland, TX. And What …. Kennel Name: Harvest View Boxers. Boxer puppies in Pueblo, CO. Check out the Boxer puppies for sale we currently have in our stores. The puppies are 8 weeks old and ready to go to their forever home! All 3 are females 2 brown, and 1 brindle. Boxer puppies for sale from trusted breeders. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. Conway is a month old mixed breed pup. Browse 5 Boxer puppies for sale. Tags: Boxer puppies boxer boxer puppies for sale in Pensacola boxer puppies for sale in Milton florida. Find Boxer puppies for sale Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Leash and Collar: Boxer puppies require leashes and collars that are sturdy and durable enough to endure their active lifestyles. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Nebraska Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Boxer Mix Puppies For Sale. Exclusive shipping offer available. If there are none here, please. Boxer puppies for sale in Arkansas from trusted breeders. Champion bloodine boxer puppies for sale. This litter has at least one dog. Find your Boxer puppy for sale. Breeds: Boxer. See below our list of real reputable Boxer breeders in Texas and the prices these breeders charge for their puppies. Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate companions for children. Find Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful information. Boxer puppies for sale What can I expect to pay for a Boxer puppy near me? From the Boxer side, potential health conditions include degenerative myelopathy, thyroid deficiency, hip dysplasia, and heart conditions. Please be cautious of these websites as there are breeding facilities called puppy mills that sell cheap dogs that come from poor living conditions. A white female from two champion. Conway is in NH and available for adoption. Boxer Puppies for Sale in PA. Boxer puppies in Odessa, TX. All our puppies will be sold only to homes that understand the healthcare and needs of a boxer. I have 3 Boxer puppies left from the past liter. Boxer puppies in Colorado Springs, CO. Boxers for Sale in Manchester, NH. What is the average cost of Boxer puppies in Phoenix, AZ? Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Phoenix, AZ. Boxers also tend to have sensitive. Kennel Name: Booty Wags Boxers. The Average Cost of a Boxer Puppy. Champion Parents Labrador Retriever Puppies. Boxer Puppies for Sale. Many people who do not know the breed or have never owned a Boxer will often ask us this and question. They have all been through 2 rounds of worm medicine and completed their first round of vaccinations a couple if weeks ago. Puppies for Sale. Boxer puppies for sale can live to be years old, so an owner needs to be prepared to care for a pup for its lifetime. Exclusive shipping offer available. Please be cautious of these websites as there are breeding facilities called puppy mills that sell cheap dogs that come from poor living conditions. Boxer puppies for sale can live to be years old, so an owner needs to be prepared to care for a pup for its lifetime. Conway is a month old mixed breed pup. The puppies are 8 weeks old and ready to go to their forever home! All 3 are females 2 brown, and 1 brindle. Looking for Boxer puppies? Lancaster Puppies has Boxers for sale! They're the best dogs for kids. Boxer puppies in Odessa, TX. Tags: Boxer puppies boxer boxer puppies for sale in Pensacola boxer puppies for sale in Milton florida. These puppies come from breeders who offer safe. See below our list of real reputable Boxer breeders in Texas and the prices these breeders charge for their puppies. Find Boxer puppies for sale Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. All our puppies will be sold only to homes that understand the healthcare and needs of a boxer. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. Boxer puppies for sale in Phoenix, AZ from trusted breeders. Browse 5 Boxer puppies for sale. Available puppies Certified breeders. Breeds: Boxer. The Average Cost of a Boxer Puppy. Boxer puppies for sale can. Boxer puppies for sale in Nebraska from trusted breeders. Boxer Puppies for Sale in PA. And What …. All puppies found here are from AKC-Registered parents. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near New Mexico Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Many people who do not know the breed or have never owned a Boxer will often ask us this and question. Boxer Mix Puppies For Sale. Beautiful litter of red and white boxer puppies with Bobtail and Tail. Showing 1 - 19 of 25, results. Find your Boxer puppy for sale. The Molossus blood makes the hardworking Boxer dog courageous, bright, and alert. Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate companions for children. Boxer puppies in Pueblo, CO. Boxer puppies for sale in New Mexico from trusted breeders. Boxer puppies in Colorado Springs, CO. I have 3 Boxer puppies left from the past liter. Full European boxer puppies health tested, gentle temperament, proven foundation lineage. Boxer Puppies for Sale. Find Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful information. Leash and Collar: Boxer puppies require leashes and collars that are sturdy and durable enough to endure their active lifestyles. Boxer puppies in Security-Widefield, CO. Champion Parents Labrador Retriever Puppies. What is the average cost of Boxer puppies in Phoenix, AZ? Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Phoenix, AZ. Check out the Boxer puppies for sale we currently have in our stores. Click the following link for available pups. Boxer puppies for sale from trusted breeders. Conway is in NH and available for adoption. Puppies for Sale. Boxer Dog Cost? They have all been through 2 rounds of worm medicine and completed their first round of vaccinations a couple if weeks ago. You have found your new baby boy. Boxers for Sale in Manchester, NH. And What Determines The Price. Kennel Name: Harvest View Boxers. This litter has at least one dog. Boxer puppies for sale in Arkansas from trusted breeders. We raise quality bred pups in a family environment. A white female from two champion. From the Boxer side, potential health conditions include degenerative myelopathy, thyroid deficiency, hip dysplasia, and heart conditions. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Nebraska Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Personality Traits: Playful, curious, energetic. Kennel Name: Booty Wags Boxers. Since many regard the Boxer as an ideal family dog, you may find a number of places that sell them online. Champion bloodine boxer puppies for sale. Boxer puppies in Midland, TX. If there are none here, please. He is social and plays well with other dogs. Boxer puppies for sale What can I expect to pay for a Boxer puppy near me? Boxer Puppy kibbles are designed with an exclusive shape and size to make it easy for the Boxer puppy to pick up and chew. Guaranteed Analysis Crude Protein min. 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How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppy diet: newborn For a German Shepherd puppy to develop and grow properly, it is imperative that they first nurse on their mother's milk. The first milk they receive is a protein and antibody-rich type of milk known as colostrum. This gives the puppy's immune and central nervous systems a boost. They then progress on to regular breast milk. Puppies will nurse for at least 6 to 8 weeks, gradually being weaned on to solid food at about 4 weeks. If, for any reason, the puppy cannot suckle its mother, don't give them cow or goat milk. These milks are very poor quality in comparison to a puppy's mother's milk. If your German shepherd puppy has to be prematurely weaned, a veterinarian will be able to prescribe specific infant formula and establish the appropriate dosage for your puppy. For example, a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd should not be fed the same food. This is because hese breeds have different nutritional needs. Take a look here to find out more about the diet for a prematurely weaned puppy. German Shepherd puppy diet: 1 month old From 3 to 4 weeks old, when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd puppy, we should start by letting them taste new foods and flavors. At this stage, the German Shepherd puppy's diet plan requires them to eat a special wet food for puppies. At around 6 to 8 weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy should be given a little dry dog food with water, or unseasoned chicken stock between nursing sessions. From their eighth week onward, a German Shepherd should be weaned and start feeding on solid food with a special puppy feed. The best dog food for a German Shepherd puppy is breed specific, but this may not be available everywhere. In these cases, your veterinarian can create a proper food plan for your German Shepherd puppy. At this stage, milk must be removed from the puppy's diet as it could cause diarrhea. If by any chance your dog or puppy is suffering from a bad stomach, we recommend taking a look at our article on what to do if yourt dog has diarrhea. In addition, it is vital that puppies have constant access to clean fresh water. German Shepherd puppy diet: 2 months old At two months of age, you can start to slowly decrease the moistening of your German Shepherd's dry food. Eventually, the puppy will be used to eating the food completely dry. Following the German Shepherd puppy food chart, from 2 until 4 months old, a puppy will eat 4 or 5 times a day. This has to be carried out with one very important addition: discipline. A puppy needs to learn that it will not be fed constantly throughout the day, but at specific times. We start of by placing a bowl of food down for 10 minutes, this should give the puppy enough time to finish its meal. After 10 minutes, we suggest taking the bowl of food away, even if your puppy hasn't finished eating. A puppy's food bowl must only be available to the dog for 10 minutes. This 10 minutes should be enough time for the puppy to eat all of its provided food. As already mentioned, after 10 minutes, you should take the food bowl away, even if the puppy hasn't finished eating. This pattern will introduce the puppy's food schedule and allow it an opportunity to become accustomed to particular feeding times. Accepting and adapting to a diet plan is very important for a puppy's intellectual development. It also facilitates more complex and demanding training sessions. Food for German shepherd puppies should be higher in calories, fats, proteins and calcium than adult German Shepherd dog food. This is because puppies are still growing and developing and therefore need better nutrition. German Shepherd puppy diet: food plan after 4 months Between 4 and 6 months of age, the number of meals which we have detailed in our German Shepherd puppy food chart should be reduced to 3 a day. The food quantity should be increased and an extra margin of 2 minutes to eat should be provided. The packaging of quality commercial dog food will detail the appropriate suggested amount of food for the puppy, depending on its age and weight. If you have any doubts, consult your veterinarian. You should eventually start mixing fresh food, such as meat, fish or vegetables, with the commercial dry feed. Beware of forbidden foods for dogs. Some people ask about a raw diet for a German shepherd puppy, but we recommend these such foods should always be cooked and never given to a dog raw. Meanwhile, treats for dogs should only be used as positive reinforcement during their training and learning period, never as a food supplement. Under no circumstances should you give your German Shepherd, or any dog, human food leftovers. Human food contains salt, sugar and seasoning contents which are very harmful to a dog's health. In addition, if you do offer your dog your food, it will pester you during meals [1]. For more, take a look at some of the harmful effects of treating a dog like a human. German Shepherd puppy diet: after 6 months When your German Shepherd puppy reaches 6 months of age, its daily food intake should be reduced to twice a day. When we do this we can increase the food portions and eating time accordingly. Our German Shepherd diet chart below should be taken into account depending on the age, lifestyle and size of your German Shepherd puppy. After 6 months, you should give your German Shepherd puppy shatterproof bones, such as beef, to gnaw on. For more, take a look here for more about; Bones For Puppies. German shepherd puppy: Dog food and water bowl hygiene Your puppy's food and drink containers should always be clean. Hygiene is very important in order to prevent the appearance of insects. If you notice that your puppy has not eaten for three consecutive meals, consult your veterinarian immediately. This lack of appetite in a puppy could be caused by bowel obstruction and stomach pain; due to the ingestion of toxic food etc. Don't forget that puppies are very sensitive and fragile and if you ignoring any symptoms of disease, it can result in severe issues or even puppy fatality. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppies should be socialized and trained to live with you from day one. These dogs are incredibly capable and have the ability, if trained properly, to learn tricks and perform activities [2]. In addition to the diet of a German Shepherd, don't forget the importance of preventative medicines, following the appropriate vaccination schedules and general German Shepherd dog care. For more information about your German shepherd, take a look at.Growth and weight The German Shepherd puppy is a popular addition to many households. Sometimes called the Alsatian puppy, the German Shepherd was initially developed for herding and now commonly used as a working dog or pet. This is your guide to providing all the nutrients your new puppy needs. When Your Puppy Comes Home Although they look pretty sturdy at eight weeks old, German Shepherd puppies are vulnerable to tummy upsets when they arrive at a new home. To help them settle in stick with the food their breeder was giving them for the first two weeks minimum. You can then gradually swap over by increasing proportions over the course of a couple of days. However, if they are doing well on their original food, considering sticking with it for longer. To begin with follow the guidelines provided by the breeder, the feed manufacturer or by your veterinarian. This will vary depending on how calorie dense the food is and how it is formulated. Your puppy should be fed four times a day up to the age of four months. After this age, two larger meals at regular times will be sufficient. However, the more often you feed your pup the stronger your bond will grow. Simple sits and recalls, puppy tricks, they all make a big difference to how your dog behaves towards you and feels about you as they grow. What to Feed A German Shepherd Puppy You will find there are a lot of different opinions about what kind of food is best. Kibble and wet food are the most popular, but you do also have the option of raw or homemade meals. Puppy Kibble Great quality, high meat content kibble is my go-to for feeding larger puppy breeds. At the beginning of the day I measure out their daily food amount, then separate it into little pots. Some as meals, and the remainder to use throughout the day to reward good behavior or get off on the right foot with positive reinforcement. The FDA recently issued a notice alerting dog owners to a potential increased risk of a serious heart condition. This is called canine dilated cardiomyopathy DCM. The risk is in dogs eating foods that include peas, lentils, or potatoes instead of grains. The underlying cause of these cases is not clear, but the FDA note suggests that caution should be used in selecting foods with these ingredients for German Shepherds and other large dogs. Canned Dog Food For picky eaters canned food can be more appealing. It smells stronger, and debatably tastes nicer. These diets do not include cooked or otherwise processed foods. However, it may be more difficult to regulate a BARF diet to ensure a slow and steady growth rate in young puppies. If you find this option intriguing, you can check out our article on feeding your dog a raw diet. Homemade Diets Research has shown that in the past, poorly balanced homemade diets have been harmful to German Shepherd puppies. There is now abundant information available to anyone who is willing and able to produce a safe and balanced diet. However, modern cases studies have shown that well-meaning owners may still over-feed or create an unbalanced diet. So, this is an area where you really can have too much of a good thing. As with commercial foods, homemade diets must be properly formulated for a large breed dog. Do not deviate from recommended recipes as provided by a veterinarian. If possible, preferably a vet with a board certification in veterinary nutrition. Recipes published in popular magazine and websites may not be nutritionally complete or suitable for a large breed puppy. Is My Puppy the Right Weight? You can also refer to German Shepherd puppy growth charts to see if you puppy is gaining weight and within the normal range. However, keep in mind that some dogs will be unusually small or large but still be perfectly healthy. Do not try to maximize growth rates as this can lead to health problems later. Ensure that you are familiar with how to assess the body condition of your puppy. The ribs and spine should be easy to feel but not simple to see. My Puppy Is Still Hungry If your puppy seems excessively hungry provide more frequent but smaller meals. Young puppies cannot tolerate going without food for extended periods. With older puppies you may wish to experiment with foods that help them feel more full, and provide low calories treats. Keeping a health puppy active and occupied will help prevent them from becoming overly focused on anticipating their next meal. So, how many times a day should you feed your German Shepherd? German Shepherds should be fed at least twice a day. Vets recommend two smaller meals instead of one large meal for healthy digestion and energy. For puppies, feed 4 meals a day up to three months old, then 3 meals a day up to six months old, before finally reducing to 2 meals a day. It is essential to stick to food schedules that are consistent for the long-term health of your German Shepherd, especially as the breed is prone to the life-threatening condition, Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus GDV , commonly known as bloat. This article will cover how often to feed a German Shepherd whether puppy or adult and how much to give your dog to keep him healthy and happy. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. My German Shepherd Willow eating her meal Hey! As a working breed raised to herd and protect sheep, they are typically energetic, enjoy physical activity, and love having a job to do. Due to their dynamic character, they demand a high-energy diet. However, as large, deep-chested dogs, they are one of the breeds prone to bloat GDV , and vets advise against feeding one large meal a day. Twice per day is the standard, with a good few hours in between, as it allows your GSD to eat and digest his food properly. German Shepherds, like most dogs, work well when fed on a schedule. I absolutely agree with this, especially as the German Shepherd is susceptible to a sensitive stomach and is known to have more digestive problems than other breeds. However, if you have any concerns, you should speak to your vet. If you have a high-energy or working German Shepherd, such as a guard dog, assistance dog, or Police or Military dog that gets a lot of exercise, you may consider feeding little and often to prevent hunger. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Schedule German Shepherd puppies will require more frequent feedings as they expend far more energy and have smaller stomachs to hold their food. You should feed a German Shepherd puppy four meals a day between 6 and 12 weeks old. Puppies aged between 12 and 24 weeks should have three meals a day, and from 24 weeks onwards, German Shepherd puppies should be fed twice per day. Age of Puppy. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

All our dogs reside in our home, with no kennels. Our Tramin dogs have wonderful temperaments, and beautiful conformations, and are genetically clear and physically sound. They are all hip and elbow tested. They are big-boned and have blocky heads. Most of our dogs are European Champions. We have found that the Tramin line is healthier and lives longer. We genetically guarantee our pet puppies for 2 years and our breeders for 4 years. I have worked for vets in Kokomo and Muncie. I have shown dogs over the years as well as taught dog obedience. We breed only genetically and physically sound retrievers. Our goal is to improve the Golden Retriever breed. Our Golden Retriever puppies are wormed every 2 weeks, vet checked, started on housebreaking and given appropriate vaccines before leaving for their new homes. We can deliver for 50 cents a mile one way. You are also welcome to come to visit or pick up your puppy. We live 50 miles north of Indianapolis Indiana. You can call or text me at Reach Out About Goldens Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States for good reason. They are intelligent, loyal, easy to train, and very affectionate. They make wonderful family dogs because they are great with young children and other dogs. Golden Retrievers are medium-sized sporting dogs that weigh on average pounds, with females weighing on the lower end of this range. Their height can range from inches tall. They have a broad head, short ears, deep chest, and very muscular build. Retrievers make excellent family dogs due to their wonderful temperament. They are friendly with children and other pets. They do not mind when company comes to visit. Golden Retrievers generally have a great temperament—they are often friendly with children, other pets, and even strangers. They enjoy being the center of attention. Golden Retrievers also love affection and being petted and will nudge you gently so that you continue to pet them. It is very rare for a Golden Retriever to show any sign of aggression. Goldens are very intelligent, which makes them easy to train as puppies. They can also be trained to be therapy dogs, guide dogs for people who are blind, or search-and-rescue dogs. She is believed to be a bloodhound shepherd mix possibly retriever. Sunny was pulled from a local shelter Christmas of after a hoarding abandonment case of 27 plus fearful feral dogs left behind in a property. The home was condemned, disgusting filthy. A home in such condition, no animal or human should have to live in. Sunny and 3 others call the sanctuary home for the time being, all are doing amazing with their rehab, learning what life as a loved pet should be. Sunny struggles to settle in and takes more time then the others. She is the one that stresses easily when meeting new people but with a playful active dog mentoring her she does so much better. She slowly warms up some when it comes to people, still unsure if she wants human affection at first but will always take a treat, moves in for petting, willing to snuggle and even cuddle. Sunny loves all the dogs, is good with cats and small critters too. Sunny has an amazing personality she herself is still learning about who she is. Always best to approach her slow at first. Sunny needs a lot of confidence still, and that requires a lot of patience with no set time frame and expectations ever. Allow her to live life 1 day at a time. Sunny walks amazing on leash, barks very little but barks. Understanding that continued training is a lifetime commitment, is very important. Out-of-state adopters are welcome at the adopter's expense.

Animal health and lifestyle website Vetstreet says that when a dog meets another dog, it will see something in the other's body language or pick up olfactory clues that signal something it either likes or doesn't like. An Italian study about dogs and cats' relationships, published in the journal PLOS One , found that about 84 percent of the dogs involved in the study were friendly to known canines while around 36 percent were also friendly to dogs they didn't know. Carly Fox , senior veterinarian at Schwarzman Animal Medical Center told Newsweek that in most cases it is safe to let your puppy play with your older dog, although playtime should always be supervised at first. She said that senior dogs can warm to both puppies and younger dogs, but that depends specifically on your dog and its personality. A stock image shows two dogs running together in a park. The internet is in tears after a dog owner shared a video of her old Labrador teaching a puppy how to appreciate birds chirping. Getty Images "There are some senior dogs that take to puppies quickly. Some people report that their senior dog becomes more active when a puppy is introduced to the household. It truly all depends on your senior dog and the way in which you do the introduction," she said. Some tips Fox shared to help make the transition smoother include making sure to spend quality time alone with your senior dog; greeting your senior dog first when arriving home; trying to keep the toys and beds of a senior dog and a puppy separate to prevent territory aggression, and, at least initially, making sure to supervise their feedings, because the food bowl is a very common location for conflict to occur between dogs. The video, which comes with the caption, "POV: Your year-old dog teaches her new sister the joys of listening to the birds," has attracted a lot of attention from animal lovers on TikTok, receiving more than 18, views and likes. Read more. February 9, Are you a golden retriever parent and wondering why is your golden dog making these noises? Is it normal for dogs in general to groan? You may ask yourself is it normal for all dogs to groan or is my dog just extremely vocal? It is quite normal for dogs to groan, much like people, they can express their emotions through sounds and grunts. What is most important to recognize with your dog, though, is the context in which they are groaning. Groans can be normal expressions of happiness, fatigue, or boredom. However, there are also times in which a dog moans or groans in pain. So, it is important to watch your dog to see if you notice any consistent grunts when they are performing regular activities, such as laying down, standing up, or when going on walks. What does it mean when a golden retriever groans and moans? For a Golden Retriever, as with other dog breeds, groans and moans are vocalizations of communication that can convey many different emotions or signals. Observing and being a proactive dog parent helped a lot in understanding why he groans. Mostly, for good reasons he groans when we or someone pets. Other times, he groans for other reasons. Your Golden May Be Alerting You to Illness or Injury If your golden is not usually an avid groaner and has started groaning and grunting a lot suddenly, it could be a sign of an injury. Remain vigilant with your dog and pay attention to any other new behaviors such as limping, vomiting, or whining when you touch them. Many things could cause these vocalizations when it comes to injury, most commonly are insect stings or other injuries to the paw pads or a bite from another animal. If your golden is older and they have started to make these noises when they are laying down, standing up, or even if they try to play but then seem to give up, these could be signs of arthritis in your pet. Joint pain and inflammation happens in humans when we get older, but it also occurs in dogs. Other illnesses which cause these vocalizations could be ascites or panosteitis. Panosteitis, is a condition which can be attributed to growing pains in the legs of large dog breeds, usually of puppy age. While this condition may occur in older dogs, it mainly affects those 5 to 18 months old. In any case, it is best to take your dog to the vet if you notice these new and out of the ordinary behaviors. Trying to Warn You of Something Groans and grunts may also be a signal of warning from your golden retriever, they may be feeling that their territory boundary is being violated and groan to warn you that this is their space and they want it to themselves. These noises, if accompanied by behavior like showing their teeth or hair standing up on their backs, means to back off. They can also grunt to warn you of something you may not see, such as a snake in the grass while you are out on a walk. Your golden retriever may groan and grunt to let you know something is not right, or there is something dangerous here. As stated before, this is less of an issue with a lovable, sharing breed like the golden retriever, but body language is always key in these situations because even a sweet golden might get territorial around its food bowl. Your Golden Retriever might be Anxious or Scared Anxiety is very common among humans and the same can be said for dogs as well. A dog may exhibit signs of fear or anxiety by moaning and grunting, similar to a whine, this behavior can be because of many anxious situations. Pay attention to what is around that could be causing stress for your golden such as new people or pets, car rides, a visit to the vet, or even you getting ready to leave this house without them. A golden retriever can be a very clingy and codependent breed, so this behavior could be a sign of separation anxiety. Your Golden Retriever May Be Bored and Just Looking for Attention As one of the more energetic and needy breeds, the golden retriever requires anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise each day. If your golden is not getting this adequate amount of exercise, then they cannot expel all of their pent-up energy and may let out these noises because they are trying to let you know they want to go play. This breed is quite needy and loves affection, so you may also hear these noises when you are busy with something or seem to be ignoring them, this is their way of getting your attention so you know to pet them and play with them. Goldens may groan when they lie down for a few reasons, one being that they have had a long day playing and they are happy to lay down and relax, or because they are sleepy. Another reason, which may cause concern if associated with other symptoms, is an illness. Most times, your dog is making noises of contentment when lying down, but if there are other behaviors present that may tell you they are sick, these noises could be letting you know they are in pain or uncomfortable. Why does my Golden only moan and groan at night? If your dog is groaning at night time it could simply be because they are getting ready to go to bed, and they are tired. These noises can be similar to yawns or shows of exhaustion. Grunts at night can also be because they are dreaming or having a nightmare, dogs can dream just as people can, and if you see that your dog is fast asleep but is kicking and grunting, they are likely just dreaming. Why does my Golden groan when I pet them? Goldens love attention and love to be pet and given belly rubs by their owners. If you are petting your golden retriever and they start to moan or groan, it is because they are letting you know they are enjoying this and they want to tell you to keep the scratches coming. Why does my Golden Retriever grunt when stretching? When a golden retriever is tired is may grunt too while stretching. When stretching to get ready for bed, they are letting you know they are excited to relax. Be sure to pay attention to the context of the situation to help you determine if they are being territorial, playful, anxious, or just sleepy. Body language is another key way to understand what your dog is trying to tell you, and if you believe they are uncomfortable or in pain, it is always best to take them into the vet to be sure they are staying happy and healthy. Related Posts:. Alice will maybe bark once every 3 months. Goldens are known for their friendly nature, loyalty, and intelligence. Golden Retrievers can be very vocal, some may bark frequently, which makes it reasonable for pet owners to understand what a golden retriever bark sounds like. A golden retriever bark is a deep, low-pitched sound that can be heard from a distance. The sound is not as sharp or high-pitched as other dog breeds like Chihuahuas or Poodles. Golden Retrievers have a thick coat of fur that helps to muffle the sound of their bark, making it less jarring than other dogs. To put this into perspective, a normal conversation is around 60 dB, and a lawnmower is around 90 dB. Therefore, if your golden retriever is barking at 90 dB, it can be quite loud and disruptive. Especially for the neighbors. What Causes a Golden Retriever to Bark? Golden Retrievers bark for a variety of reasons, including: Alerting their owners of potential danger: Golden Retrievers are known for being protective of their owners and their home. If they sense something is wrong, they will bark to alert their owners. Expressing excitement or joy: Golden Retrievers are energetic dogs that love to play and be active. They may bark out of excitement when their owners come home, when they see other dogs, or when they are playing. Feeling anxious or stressed: Golden Retrievers can become anxious or stressed in certain situations, such as being left alone for long periods, meeting new people, or encountering new environments. They may bark as a way to express their discomfort. Seeking attention: Golden Retrievers are social dogs that crave attention from their owners. If your golden retriever is barking excessively, there are several things you can do to address the issue: Determine the cause of the barking: Try to identify what is causing your golden retriever to bark excessively. Once you know the cause, you can work on addressing the underlying issue. Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation: Golden Retrievers are active dogs. If your golden retriever is barking out of boredom, provide them with plenty of opportunities to play and exercise. Teach your golden retriever to be quiet: Teach them to quiet on command. When they do, reward them with a treat or praise. Golden Retrievers are known to make a variety of noises besides barking. Some of the common noises that golden retrievers make include: Whining: Whining is a high-pitched sound that golden retrievers make when they are seeking attention or expressing discomfort. Whining can be a sign that your dog is anxious, in pain, or needs to go outside. Growling: Growling is a deep, rumbling sound that golden retrievers make when they feel threatened or want to assert dominance. Growling can be a sign that your dog is feeling defensive or aggressive and should be addressed immediately. My Goldens have rarely ever growled, in the handful of occasions it was because they were alerting me to something outside like a coyote. Mooo: In some cases a couple of my goldens would make sounds that were similar to growling. In these cases, it was their way of talking without having to bark and a way of seeking attention. It is a slightly different sound than a growl. Howling: Howling is a long, mournful sound that golden retrievers make when they are trying to communicate with other dogs or respond to certain sounds. Howling can be a sign that your dog is feeling lonely or trying to locate a sound or scent. Or as in most cases is because they are mimicking a firetruck. Grunting: Grunting is a low-pitched sound that golden retrievers make when they are content or relaxed. Grunting can be a sign that your dog is comfortable and enjoying your company. Ember always would make grunting sounds. Snoring: Snoring is a common noise that golden retrievers make while they are sleeping. Snoring can be a sign that your dog is sleeping deeply and comfortably. By understanding the different noises that your golden retriever makes, you can provide the appropriate care and attention that they need to thrive. Coincidentally the loudest bark on record comes from Charlie , a Golden Retriever, coming in at .Luckily this is not the norm. Golden Retrievers bark for a variety of reasons, which may include alerting their owners of potential danger, expressing excitement or joy, feeling anxious or stressed, and attention seeking. If your golden retriever is barking excessively, there are several things you can do to address the issue, such as determining the cause of the barking, providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, teaching your golden retriever to be quiet, and considering professional training. It is important to remember that barking is a natural behavior for dogs and can be a way for them to communicate their needs and feelings. With patience, understanding, and proper training, you can help your golden retriever become a well-behaved and happy member of your family. References: American Kennel Club. Golden Retriever Dog Breed Information. Why Do Dogs Bark? Understanding Canine Vocalization. Cambridge University Press. Pacing Whale eyes When they show the whites of their eyes Freezing or very stiff and tense body. Ask yourself: Is your Golden Retriever overwhelmed, or in a new situation? Is he not understanding you? Did this come on suddenly when someone or something came close? Can you figure out a way to remove the stimuli that are causing him to stress in order to help him calm down? What to do: Try and change the environment. Be calm and reassuring. Make sure that you are clear with training and giving commands. Try to figure out the trigger and avoid it, or work on training to tolerate it better. Your Golden Retriever is Excited Golden Retrievers can be sensitive to our moods which makes them wonderful companions because they are always extremely perceptive to your needs and ready and willing to please, but it can also mean that they pick up on every mood and emotion around them. At times they can also be high energy that can be perceived as excitement. How to Tell: Tail is wagging , running in circles, jumping up and down, barking. Displaying zoomies a sudden release of energy when your dog seems to go wild and is running around at high speed. Ask Yourself: What is your energy level? Have you just come home from work and they want to greet you? Maybe your Golden Retriever is meeting someone new or wanting to play. If you are feeling high stress or excitement your dog will feed off your emotion and most likely be showing that behavior as well. What to do: You can redirect his energy by taking him for a run or playing a game of fetch with a toy. Make sure that you have calm energy about yourself. Dim lights, or use some of this therapeutic aromatherapy spray from Amazon Affiliate link to help calm her down. Your Golden Retriever is smart and energetic and they require a lot of attention. If they are feeling lonely or not being attended to as much as they need they will start to whine and cry. How to tell: Similar to when they show excitement, but more direct eye contact with you with intentions of trying to get something. Ask yourself: Has your dog had enough exercise and mental stimulation today. Most Golden Retrievers need at least 60 minutes of exercise a day as well as plenty of mental stimulation. What is he trying to get your attention for? Is it worth giving the attention or not? Do you have a new pet, person, or situation in your family? Perhaps your Golden Retriever is Jealous? Remember you only want to reinforce behaviors you would like to see repeated. To truly get this behavior under control you need to completely ignore them. Cries or howls when you leave them alone destroys things when you are gone, is overly excited when you return. What Does it Mean? How long have I been gone? Have I trained my dog to be ok without being near me every hour of the day? When you leave, make it subtle and no fussing or kisses goodbye. Make your return no big deal and ignore your pup until they are calm. I always say a tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Giving them something to do while you are gone like this chew toy or this puzzle toy from Amazon affiliate link can help a lot. Try not to leave your dog alone too long if you can manage it. Your Golden Retriever is Fearful Puppies are very impressionable and teaching them and socializing them starts in the very beginning stages of their life. Unfortunately, there are many people that run puppy mills link to information on how to stop puppy mills that are breeding Golden Retriever purely for the money and do not take very good care of them when they are young. When a puppy starts their life in this type of environment it can be very damaging and set them up for a lifetime of fear or aggression. Thankfully there are things that you can do to help if you do end up with a puppy that has been treated this way, it will just be more difficult to get them feeling and behaving confidently. How to tell: Tucked tail, shaking, lowered ears and or head, trying to hide behind you or something else. Ask yourself: How was your Golden Retriever treated as a puppy? Is your Golden Retriever a rescue? Was your dog properly socialized when they were young? Does your dog get frightened when they hear a loud unrecognizable noise? What to do: If your dog seems overly fearful of many things and you suspect that your Golden Retriever is whining or crying a lot because of this, you will need to work very hard at building a solid foundation of trust between you and your dog. Once this foundation of trust is established it will be easier for you to teach your dog that the rest of the world is not as fearful as they suspect it may be. You may also need help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who has experience working with fearful dogs. They will help you come up with and implement a training plan. If you think their fear is a one-time circumstance that has been brought on by something unexpected in his environment, like sudden fireworks or the sound of a car misfiring, then you can isolate that particular thing and work towards training them to tolerate it. You could also try something like this anxiety wrap from Amazon affiliate link that has been useful for dogs afraid of loud noises like thunder. Your Golden Retriever is Bored When our dog Bear gets playful he lets us know by barking and whining and begging us to play. Most dogs will let you know when they are tired of laying around and not doing a whole lot. Golden Retrievers in particular have a real need to be entertained and challenged. Because they are working dogs and originally bred to help with hunting and retrieving they are a lot happier when they are doing something they think is useful. How to tell: Short high pitched whines, usually accompanied by a sigh, may seem lazy or disinterested in their favorite toys or games. Ask Yourself: Again you need to think about how much exercise and mental stimulation your Golden Retriever is getting. Golden Retrievers do better when they have something to do to occupy their time. It helps if they are constantly learning new things. When was the last time you taught your Golden Retriever a new command, game, or trick? What to do: Provide your Dog with some mental stimulation. Teach them some new tricks, work on training, or give them a fun new toy like this fun crinkle toy from Amazon affiliate link. Try not to leave all their toys available all the time. If you keep all but 2 or 3 put away and rotate them that will keep your Golden Retriever from getting bored too easily. You can also try this awesome program called Brain Training that can give you a huge boost in your training methods and plans. If you are on Facebook I would suggest that you join a group like this Canine Enrichment group where you will find a plethora of great ideas from other dog owners. If you have a rescue or your Golden Retriever is aging then pain or discomfort may be a reason your Golden Retriever is whining. How to tell: Look for any kind of physical signs such as limping, constantly licking a sore area, or yelps and whines when picked up or moved. Ask Yourself: How old is my Golden Retriever? Has his energy been waning? Are there other red flags such as growling or biting when handled a certain way or untouched food? Has your dog had a recent dental exam? Poor dental health can cause pain for your Golden Retriever. What to do: If you suspect your dog is in pain take him to your vet right away. Pro Tip: If you are not able to get a hold of a vet near you, or you want to avoid an unnecessary ER trip, there are online resources that you can turn to. Here is our best recommendation:.

Breeds The link has been copied! Are you ready to meet the pint-sized pup with a personality as big as their bark? Introducing the Micro French Bulldog - the adorable and compact canine companion that's taking the dog world by storm! With their cute button noses, wrinkly faces, and unmistakable bat ears, these tiny pooches are the epitome of cuteness overload. But don't let their small size fool you - these feisty pups pack a punch when it comes to personality. Whether you're looking for a loyal lap dog or a playful pal, the Micro French Bulldog is sure to steal your heart and leave you begging for more cuddles. So grab your favorite dog treats and get ready to discover the fascinating world of these miniature marvels. These tiny pups are the result of selectively breeding smaller Frenchies, and they typically weigh between pounds and stand at inches tall. Micro Frenchies have all the same physical characteristics as their larger counterparts, including their bat-like ears, wrinkly faces, and short, stocky bodies. However, their petite size makes them even more adorable and irresistible to many dog lovers. While Micro French Bulldogs are undeniably cute, it's important to note that their small size can come with some health challenges. They may be more prone to health issues like respiratory problems, dental problems, and joint issues. As with any dog breed, it's important to do thorough research and talk to a reputable breeder to ensure you're giving your Micro Frenchie the best possible care. The Micro French Bulldog as we know it today did not exist in Ancient Greece, but the breed's ancestors can be traced back to the Molossian dogs of that time. These dogs were large and powerful, used for hunting and as guard dogs. Over time, the breed evolved, becoming smaller and more compact. Fast forward to the 19th century in England, and we see the emergence of the modern-day French Bulldog. These dogs were bred as companion animals, smaller versions of the English Bulldog that were popular with the upper class. They quickly became a fashion accessory, with many wealthy women carrying their Frenchies in small bags. The first records of smaller versions of the French Bulldog come from the early 20th century, when breeders began selectively breeding for smaller sizes. These early versions were known as "Toy Bulldogs" and were popular in England and France. It wasn't until the midth century that the term "Teacup French Bulldog" or "Micro French Bulldog" began to be used to describe these tiny pups. Today, they remain a popular choice for those looking for a pint-sized companion that's big on personality. How the Micro French Bulldog Gained Popularity The Micro French Bulldog has gained popularity in recent years due to its irresistibly cute appearance and charming personality. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have played a significant role in increasing the popularity of this tiny breed, with many influencers and celebrities showing off their adorable Micro Frenchies to their followers. Another reason for the breed's popularity is its adaptability to apartment living. Due to their small size and moderate exercise requirements, Micro French Bulldogs are well-suited for city living and make great companions for those who live in smaller spaces. In addition, the breed's affectionate and playful nature has made them a popular choice for families and individuals alike. They are known for being great with children and other pets, making them an excellent choice for those looking for a furry friend to share their home with. Finally, the growing popularity of "teacup" or miniature dog breeds in general has contributed to the rise of the Micro French Bulldog. Many people are drawn to the idea of owning a small, cute companion that they can easily take with them wherever they go. Overall, the Micro French Bulldog's rise in popularity can be attributed to its undeniable cuteness, adaptability, and lovable personality, making it a perfect companion for many different types of households. However, the breed is recognized by some smaller kennel clubs and breed associations. This means that any Micro French Bulldog that meets the breed standard for French Bulldogs can be registered with these organizations, regardless of their size. While some people are drawn to the appeal of owning a Micro French Bulldog, it's important to note that there are potential health risks associated with breeding for extremely small size. Responsible breeders should prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs over achieving a specific size or appearance. Top 5 Unique Facts About the Micro French Bulldog While the Micro French Bulldog may be a small and adorable breed, potential owners should carefully consider their health and care needs before bringing one into their home. They may not be the best fit for families with young children, but can make great companions for those who have the time and resources to provide proper care and attention. By understanding these unique characteristics, owners can ensure their Micro French Bulldog thrives in a loving and caring environment. Instead, it is considered a smaller version of the French Bulldog breed. This means that any dog that meets the breed standards for the French Bulldog can be considered a Micro Frenchie, regardless of their size. Despite not having official recognition, Micro French Bulldogs have gained popularity as an irresistible and compact canine companion. They Have a Lot of Health Problems Micro French Bulldogs are prone to a variety of health issues due to their small size and flat faces. Breathing difficulties, dental problems, and joint issues are common in this breed. This makes it essential for potential owners to do their research and choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health of their dogs. It's also important to provide proper care and attention to keep them healthy and happy. Their small size and delicate nature make them susceptible to injuries, and they may not be able to handle rough play or accidental drops. It's important to supervise any interactions between children and Micro French Bulldogs to prevent any accidents. Grooming Is Essential Despite their short coats, Micro French Bulldogs require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and free of tangles. They shed moderately and require weekly brushing to keep their coats looking their best. Additionally, their wrinkles should be cleaned and dried regularly to prevent skin infections. Grooming also provides a great opportunity for bonding and establishing a routine. Temperature and Climate Are Vital Considerations Due to their short snouts, Micro French Bulldogs may have difficulty regulating their body temperature and are prone to overheating. It's important to keep them cool and comfortable, especially during hot and humid weather. They may also be sensitive to extreme cold and should be kept warm during colder weather. As a result, living in a suitable climate and providing proper temperature regulation is critical for the health and well-being of Micro French Bulldogs. Possible Health Issues of Miniature French Bulldogs Here are some potential health issues that owners should be aware of: Respiratory problems: Miniature French Bulldogs have short snouts, making it difficult for them to breathe properly. This can lead to respiratory problems, such as snoring , wheezing, and difficulty breathing, especially in hot or humid conditions. Owners should ensure their Miniature French Bulldogs are not over-exerted and are kept in a cool and comfortable environment. Dental problems: Due to their small size, Miniature French Bulldogs have smaller jaws and teeth, making them more prone to dental issues. They may develop gum disease, cavities, and tooth decay, which can lead to infection and discomfort. Owners should provide their Miniature French Bulldogs with regular dental care, such as teeth brushing and professional cleanings. Joint problems: Miniature French Bulldogs have a compact and stocky build, making them more prone to joint issues such as hip dysplasia and patellar luxation. These conditions can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking. Owners should monitor their Miniature French Bulldogs' weight and provide them with moderate exercise to help prevent joint problems. Skin allergies: Miniature French Bulldogs are susceptible to skin allergies, which can cause itching, redness, and skin infections. Allergies can be caused by various factors, such as food, environmental factors, or even flea bites. Owners should work with their veterinarian to identify and manage their Miniature French Bulldogs' allergies. Eye problems: Miniature French Bulldogs are also prone to various eye problems, such as cherry eye, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. These conditions can lead to vision loss, discomfort, and even blindness. Owners should have their Miniature French Bulldogs' eyes checked regularly by a veterinarian. Micro French Bulldogs can make great pets for the right owners. Their compact size, charming personality, and adaptability to apartment living make them a popular choice among dog lovers. However, there are some important factors to consider before bringing a Micro French Bulldog into your home. First, potential owners should be aware of the health issues that are common in this breed due to their small size and physical traits. Breathing difficulties, dental problems, joint issues, and skin allergies are all potential health concerns that owners should be prepared to manage. It's important to choose a reputable breeder and provide proper care and attention to keep your Micro French Bulldog healthy and happy. Second, Micro French Bulldogs can be sensitive to extreme temperatures and may have difficulty regulating their body temperature, making them prone to overheating. They require moderate exercise and a comfortable, climate-controlled environment to thrive. Finally, while Micro French Bulldogs can make great companions, they may not be the best choice for families with young children or those who have a busy lifestyle. Their small size makes them delicate, and they require regular attention and care. Owners should be prepared to provide their Micro French Bulldogs with proper exercise, socialization, and training. Other Exotic French Bulldogs In addition to the Micro French Bulldog, there are several other exotic French Bulldog variations that have become increasingly popular in recent years. Here are a few examples: Blue French Bulldog: The Blue French Bulldog is a rare variation that is known for its unique blue-gray coat color. This is caused by a recessive gene that affects the pigmentation of the dog's fur. Blue French Bulldogs are in high demand due to their striking appearance, but potential owners should be aware that they are more prone to health issues than other French Bulldog colors. Lilac French Bulldog : The Lilac French Bulldog is another rare variation that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Lilac French Bulldogs have a light, diluted coat color that ranges from pale lavender to silver. Merle French Bulldog : The Merle French Bulldog is a visually striking variation that has a marbled or speckled coat pattern with two or more colors. Merle French Bulldogs are not recognized by major kennel clubs due to concerns over potential health issues caused by the merle gene, which can affect hearing and vision. They are sometimes referred to as "long-haired Frenchies," but it's important to note that they are not a separate breed or variety. Chocolate French Bulldog: The Chocolate French Bulldog has a rich, chocolate-colored coat and is a less common variation of the breed. They are often mistaken for Black French Bulldogs, but their coat has a reddish undertone that sets them apart. It's important to note that some of these exotic French Bulldog variations can be more prone to health issues than other French Bulldogs, and potential owners should do their research and choose a reputable breeder that prioritizes the health of their dogs. Final Thoughts French Bulldogs, including the Micro French Bulldog and other exotic variations, are undeniably cute and charming dogs that have become increasingly popular in recent years. However, it's important for potential owners to be aware of the health issues that are common in these breeds and to do their research before bringing one into their home. By choosing a reputable breeder, providing proper care and attention, and taking preventive measures to manage potential health issues, owners can ensure that their French Bulldog thrives in a loving and healthy environment. For additional pet-parenting tips, head over to TryFi. And don't forget to check out TryFi's innovative Fi Dog Collar , which offers GPS tracking, activity monitoring, and escape alerts to keep your furry friend safe. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Chocolate Blue fawn Some may have markings or a combination of colors, such as black and white or fawn and cream. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. Teacup French Bulldog Temperament Teacup French Bulldogs are known for their charming personalities and playful nature. They are affectionate, loyal, jovial, funny, and friendly companions, making them a popular choice for families and individuals alike. Despite their small size, Teacup French Bulldogs are robust and energetic. They love to play and are always up for a game of fetch or tug-of-war and other indoor games. They also enjoy going for walks and exploring their surroundings. Teacup French Bulldogs are not too intelligent but are highly determined. They respond well to positive reinforcement training and are eager to please their owners. They are also very adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, including apartments and small homes. While Teacup French Bulldogs are generally friendly and outgoing, they can sometimes be stubborn. They may also be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Proper socialization and training can help prevent these issues. Teacup French Bulldogs are a popular breed among dog lovers, but they do have some health concerns that potential owners should be aware of. While many of these health issues are common in all French Bulldogs, they can be more severe in teacup-sized dogs. Breathing difficulties: Due to their small size and short snouts, they can easily develop breathing problems, which can be exacerbated by exercise or stress. This can lead to snoring, wheezing , difficulty breathing, and even unusual sounds as they sleep. Brachycephalic airway syndrome; Causing issues with the upper respiratory tract like coughing as though something is stuck. Tracheal collapse due to their fragile necks and throats. Hypoglycemia commonly affects small breeds, causing a rapid lowering of blood sugar. Hydrocephalus, where the brain fills up with liquid. Dental issues: Due to their small size, they are more prone to dental issues such as periodontal disease and tooth decay. Skin issues like skin fold pyoderma due to wrinkles. Eye issues due to bulging eyes. These include glaucoma, cataracts, and cherry eye pink bumps on the eye. Patellar luxation; Here, the kneecap slips out of place. Heat stroke. Stenotic nares where the nostrils are too small. Common problems like Allergies, obesity, and food sensitivities. Teacup French Bulldogs require a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain their health and well-being. They should be fed high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small breeds. It is important to avoid overfeeding, as Teacup French Bulldogs are prone to obesity. A good feeding schedule is to offer small meals throughout the day rather than one larger one. This reduces the risk of hypoglycemia when their blood sugar gets too low. Regular brushing twice a week with a soft-bristled brush will help to remove loose hair and keep their coat shiny. Brush their teeth twice a week and use a dental canine rinse on some of the remaining days. Bathe them monthly or when extremely dirty with a mild canine shampoo. Highly absorbent canine towels will help you dry their wrinkles to prevent infection. It is also important to clean their ears bi-weekly with ear wipes to prevent infections. Nails should be trimmed monthly with pet clippers to prevent them from becoming too long and causing discomfort or injury. Exercise Teacup French Bulldogs are a small breed and do not require a lot of exercise. However, they still need daily physical activity for 20 to 30 minutes to keep them healthy and prevent obesity. It is important to avoid overexertion, especially in hot weather, as Teacup French Bulldogs are prone to heatstroke. Therefore, always carry a filled portable water bottle for them during walks. These dogs are eager to please, but they can also be stubborn. Here are some tips for training your Teacup French Bulldog: To train these pups, start training early in puppyhood, use positive reinforcement, and stay consistent. Socialization, obedience training, and crate training are the most important things to teach your Teacup Frenchie. Additional costs such as food, toys, grooming, and veterinary care can add up quickly. Be wary of breeders who offer Teacup French Bulldogs at significantly lower prices, as they may not be breeding healthy dogs. You can also visit the breeder to see the exact size of the litter parents. Adopting a Teacup Frenchie Adoption can be the best way to go when getting this dog. However, due to their rarity and high prices, getting these pups in shelters or adoption agencies may be a task. Does the miniature French Bulldog really exist? This breed became one of the most popular breeds in the world. No wonder people love the Frenchie breed so much; they are affectionate with charming personalities and their small bodies make them ideal for small space living, apartment living, which is the prominent reason they are currently the most popular breed in New York City. According to the American Kennel Club , the breed ranks sixth in popularity among all dog breeds in the United States. What is a mini Frenchie? A mini Frenchie is a standard French Bulldog that got bred down to a smaller size. There are other names associated with this phenomenon such as the micro French Bulldog or teacup Frenchies. All these terms essentially carry the same meaning. A smaller version of the standard Frenchie dog we all know and love. What is the French Bulldog Breed Structure? The French Bulldog is a heavy bone muscular dog with short smooth coat. The Frenchie dog built is compact, and of a medium or small structure with a large square head and plenty of wrinkles. The structure of the French Bulldog puts them immediately at a disadvantage with higher risk of BOAS and other health concerns. Auggie wasn't strong enough to play with other dogs, but he quickly became an expert snuggler! Today on Little But Fierce, watch Auggie snuggle his way into his foster mom's heart, make his first big! Brindle and White markings French Bulldog pictured on the left. Cream Frenchie. Fawn and White markings French Bulldog puppy. Fawn Brindle Frenchie coat. White and Brindle Frenchie. Is the Mini Frenchie Ethically Bred? The short answer is no. No reputable breeder or known French Bulldog association or organization recognizes the micro, mini or teacup French Bulldog. Unfortunately miniaturization of the standard French Bulldog that already carries health issues comes with great risks. This fact makes it unethical for breeders to breed the mini Frenchie. The French Bulldog is not a member of the toy dog group e. Chihuahua, Maltese, Pomeranian etc. It is unnatural to miniaturize them further. A standard-sized French Bulldog is about inches tall and weighs just under 28 pounds. Off course there are exceptions to this rule, this is just a general guideline of the standard size Frenchie. It is important to mention we are only talking about the mini Frenchie being advertised and sold as a full breed we are not talking about the crossbreeds of a French Bulldogs with other breeds. While miniature dogs are appealing and well desired, a miniature French Bulldog can suffer not only from health problems associated with the breed but also problems associated with miniaturization. Anyone considering a teacup Frenchie should do their research and should be well aware of the health issues and potential cost of lifelong care. There are breeders who claim they breed mini French Bulldog puppies ethically Please read below how breeders achieve the mini version of a Frenchie puppy and make the determination yourself. All we can say is beware of these breeders. It is the most well known trick in the book to use words such as "rare" "exotic" "teacup" and so forth to justify the large price tag for a dog that doesn't meet the AKC breed standards. How do breeders achieve the mini French Bulldog Puppies? Dwarf Frenchie dogs Taking the role of god to their hands - Cultivating the dwarfism mutation gene in a line of French Bulldogs. Dwarfism is a skeletal disorder that leads to chronic pain in dogs and health problems related to shortened spinal vertebrae, bowed legs, abnormal skull and facial bone structure. Breeding the French Bulldog runts Playing with fire - Breeding runts is probably one of the most unhealthy breeding practices. Runts are the smallest and weakest in a litter. Repeated breeding of the smallest and weakest is only asking for trouble. Crossbreeding French Bulldogs with Chihuahuas False advertising -Crossbreed of a French Bulldog with a different, smaller dog breed then re-breeding until the looks of a full French Bulldog that is smaller is met, usually by second or third generation. Advertised and sold as a full breed even though DNA will show the dog is not a full breed. Breeders crossbreed the French Bulldog with a different, smaller dog breed in order to achieve the miniature Frenchie look. The Frenchie Chihuahua hybrid dog appearance We are not able to fully predict the appearance of the French Bullhuahua and every breeding will be different. Each breeding of this hybrid can result on more characteristics of either parent breed. Some will look more like French Bulldogs, and some more like Chihuahuas. The French Bullhuahua is naturally a small dog, and can weigh anywhere from 7 lbs to 23 lbs. They usually possess a stocky, muscular body and the signature bat-ears that made Frenchies well-known. It is hard to predict the lifespan of a mini Frenchie and it will depend on what health issues they are having in terms of their genes and breeding history. It is possible in rare occasions for a mini Frenchie to live as long as the standard French Bulldog however, it is very unlikely. How much does a teacup French Bulldog puppy cost? The price tag. Every time a breeder refers to a dog in those terms you can expect the price tag of the dog to double or triple than normal asking. We believe that initial fee is only the beginning. Mini French Bulldog dog alternative: There are many alternatives to the mini Frenchie. Before you spend thousands of dollars for a breed that was miniaturized against AKC standards and will most likely have lifelong health issues which will set you up for heartache after heartache please consider all options. Consider a French Bulldog crossbreed with fewer inherited health problems. A French Bulldog crossbreed can be a great alternative to a mini Frenchie if you do your research and choose a reputable breeder who tests all their breeding stock for any inherited health conditions. Crossbreedbetween French Bulldog and Yorkshire Terrier. Opt for a different small breed in the toy dog group such as: Cairn Terrier, Bichon Frise or a Havanese and so forth. Forget about the idea of a mini French Bulldog altogether. Do your research of the standard French Bulldog and decided if that breed fits in your family and current life situation. Is a French bulldog the right breed for me? French Bulldogs have a unique personality than other breeds and it is recommended you learn more about this breed before getting one. Society stigmatize them as a lazy low maintenance small breed you can just carry everywhere. This is far from the truth. French Bulldogs often require as much attention as a newborn baby. If you cannot devote the time and energy not you nor the dog will be happy in that situation. They are very good in apartment settings and do not require a big place or yard. If you work most of the day, and planning on leaving your Frenchie at home alone until you come back, please re-think getting this breed. It is too often that this breed is being surrendered due to the inability of spending time with the dog. French Bulldogs will get angry and destroy things to get your attention if you are ignoring them or not there for them. If you are retired, and want a great loving companion this might be the breed for you. Please research this breed before getting a French Bulldog, it might be the best or worse decision you'll ever make and it all depends on your circumstances. French Bulldogs Dogs I decided the standard French bulldog is the right dog for me. Where should I start? Research, research research - from reading the AKC website to searching for breeders you should spend the next six months looking at information. Getting a Frenchie is a life changing decision, you don't want to take this decision making lightly. Ask for breeders recommendations - and check several breeders not just one. Most reputable great breeders take a deposits for their pups months in advance before the litter is even confirmed and that is due to the community knowing the reputation of the breeder and the dogs. Check online reviews - so you were told a breeder was highly recommended by someone, we don't believe that's enough information. You should check to see that their online presence matches and people have positive things to say about them. In today's day and age modern technology makes it extremely easy to know a lot of information. If the breeder have any negative feedback we bet you will find it online. Even a place like Facebook page has a recommendation section. Call AKC at to make sure the breeder is in good standing. You should ask the breeder for advice about your French Bulldog anytime your dog has any issue physically or mentally. Ask plenty of questions- Such as are they a full time or hobby breeders? Ask about the history of the mom and dad of the litter and so forth. Breeders should be honest in regards to their litters what to expect in terms of strengths and weaknesses and any genetic diseases that can affect their breed or line. Breeders should be willing to answer any questions you may have and they should also ask you many questions. If they don't ask you anything or the conversation seems too light that's a red flag as breeders want to make sure their puppies are going to a good homes. Are the dogs clean, well fed, and friendly? Does the breeder act lovingly towards the puppies and their adult dogs? Both the puppies and adult dogs should be outgoing with the breeder and you. Look for red flags such as protruding rib cages, lethargy, runny nose, skin issues etc. Congratulations, you have found the right Frenchie breeder.Anything other than this guideline is a red flag. Don't be surprised if-the breeder asks you to sign an acknowledgement or memorandum indicating you will return your French Bulldog back to the breeder in the case you can no longer care for your dog. This is a normal request and will be asked by most responsible ethical breeders. Be wary of a breeder - if they refuse to give you AKC papers or offers papers from a registry other than the American Kennel Club. Another red flag is the breeder hesitating to give records for any vet exam, immunizations or any other medical documentation. If any of the above happens in the last minute we would recommend you re-think bringing that Frenchie puppy home. Misleading information of the miniature Frenchie There is very little information on the micro Frenchie and very little awareness on how they are bred. There is also a lot of incorrect information of a mini Frenchie and claims that are just unreasonable and not based on any scientific evidence. All we can say is please look at the source of what you are reading. Is the writer a breeder trying to promote their own line of breeding? Or is it a trusted source? Don't cherry pick information and try to be as objective as possible. We hope we have shed some light on this subject. If you have more questions don't hesitate to write a comment or email us hello Frenchiestore. Table of Contents Short Summary Mini French Bulldogs are a miniature version of the standard breed, but potential owners should be aware of their health risks. These dogs have unique bat-like ears and compact builds, as well as friendly personalities that make them great companions for families with children or multiple pets. Known for their highly adaptable nature, low maintenance, and ability to be easily carried, these tiny puppies have become quite popular among dog lovers, especially those who adore miniature dogs. The terms teacup French Bulldog, miniature French Bulldog, and micro French Bulldog are used to describe the smallest of the breed. Fully grown Mini French Bulldogs typically reach a height of no more than 11 inches and weigh no more than 28 pounds. A miniature French Bulldog puppy will be smaller and grow into this size as they mature. While mini Frenchies are undeniably cute, it is important to note that not all Mininature French Bulldogs are healthy. They can be prone to certain health issues due to their small size and breeding methods. We will delve deeper into these health concerns later on in this guide. Creating a Mini French Bulldog To create mini French Bulldogs, breeders breed teacup French Bulldogs using various methods such as crossbreeding with smaller breeds, breeding for dwarfism, and breeding runs of litters. Crossbreeding involves mating a French Bulldog with a smaller breed, such as a Chihuahua or a Yorkshire Terrier, to obtain a teacup French Bulldog. Breeding for dwarfism entails cultivating the genetic mutation for canine dwarfism to create a teacup French Bulldog. Another approach is breeding runts of litters, which refers to mating two runts of litters to produce a miniature French Bulldog. Each method has its pros and cons, and potential owners should be aware of the health risks associated with them. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome is a set of chronic health problems resulting from the shortened muzzle of the French Bulldog. Chronic lack of oxygen in the blood is also a symptom that could occur. This deformity can lead to painful and debilitating compression of the spinal cord, incontinence, paralysis, and in severe cases, euthanasia. It is crucial to be aware of these health concerns when considering a mini Frenchie and to ensure they receive proper care and regular check-ups with a veterinarian. Mini French Bulldogs must measure no more than 11 inches in height and weigh between 12 and 22 pounds. Their size is smaller than that of a standard French Bulldog. Despite the size difference, mini Frenchies still possess the charming and unique appearance of standard French Bulldogs, with their distinctive bat-like ears and compact build. Potential owners should be aware that the size and appearance of a mini Frenchie can vary depending on the breeding method used, and it is essential to find a reputable breeder to ensure a healthy and well-bred puppy. Early socialization is essential to ensure an ideal temperament and to prevent potential guarding behaviors. They are known to enjoy spending time with children, although caution should be exercised with rowdy and small children due to the delicate nature of the breed. Ensuring mini french bulldogs healthy lifestyle is important for their well-being. Positive reinforcement is the most effective approach for training mini French Bulldogs, as gentle handling and rewarding good behavior are key components. Mini Frenchies get along well with other pets, making them a great addition to households with multiple animals. Due to their portability and low physical activity requirements, mini French Bulldogs are an ideal option for the elderly and those living in small spaces or apartments. Their charming personality and affectionate nature make mini Frenchies a beloved breed for many families. It is important to ensure they receive proper care, nutrition, exercise, and grooming for their health and wellbeing. Mini Frenchies require 20 minutes of low to medium intensity activity per day, and it is important to note that they can be prone to heatstroke if they overexert themselves in hot weather. A high-quality dry kibble diet that is low in fat and carbs is recommended for mini French Bulldogs. Adult mini Frenchies should be fed 1 cup of food per day. Regular grooming, dental care, and routine veterinary check-ups are essential to maintain the health of your mini Frenchie. Finding a Reputable Breeder Finding a responsible and ethical breeder for mini French Bulldogs is crucial to ensure you bring home a healthy, well-bred puppy. Conduct thorough research, ask for referrals from friends or veterinarians, and be mindful of any warning signs of unscrupulous breeders. Potential red flags may include a request for the puppy to be taken home before weeks, unwillingness to provide AKC papers or medical documentation, and reluctance to furnish records for vet exams or immunizations. It is not recommended to purchase a teacup French Bulldog, as they are often sourced from irresponsible breeders or puppy mills. Some breeds of small dogs that are similar in size and appearance to mini French Bulldogs include Boston Terriers, Pugs, Cairn Terriers, and certain hybrid breeds. These breeds may have fewer inherited health problems than mini Frenchies, making them a potentially more suitable choice for families concerned about the health and wellbeing of their pet. Mini French Bulldogs and Families It can be concluded that mini French Bulldogs make excellent family pets due to their gentle temperaments, affectionate dispositions, and compatibility with households that contain children and other animals. They are also relatively easy to train, although they may be prone to health issues associated with their small size. If you are considering adding a mini Frenchie to your family, it is essential to research the breed thoroughly, understand the potential health risks, and find a reputable breeder. By doing so, you can ensure that you are bringing home a healthy, well-bred puppy that will bring joy and companionship to your family for years to come. Summary In conclusion, mini French Bulldogs are undeniably adorable and endearing pets that have captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. Although they may be prone to certain health issues, with proper care, nutrition, and regular check-ups, these tiny companions can bring immense joy and companionship to your family. When deciding on whether to get a teacup Frenchie or not, always keep the health and well-being of your mini Frenchie in mind. By doing so, you ensure a loving and fulfilling relationship with your new furry friend for years to come. These tiny dogs are bred selectively to be smaller than standard Frenchies and typically weigh pounds and stand at inches tall. They are a popular choice for those who want a small companion that still has the same personality and look of a French Bulldog. They are also great for those who live in apartments or apartments. How big do mini French Bulldogs get? Mini French. Bulldogs are typically small in size, reaching a height of no more than 11 inches and weighing no more than 14 pounds when fully grown. As compared to the standard-size French Bulldog, which can reach heights of inches and can weigh between lbs, Mini French Bulldogs are significantly smaller. How much is a Mini French Bulldog? The cost of a mini French Bulldog varies depending on many factors, such as the breeder, location, and size of the puppy. Jan 5, .A French Bulldog is typically larger than a Mini French Bulldog, with the former being inches in height and pounds as an adult, while the latter is less than 11 inches in height and weighs less than 28 pounds. Mini French Bulldogs may vary in size depending on the breeding process. What health issues are commonly seen in mini French Bulldogs? Mini-French Bulldogs are predisposed to a range of health issues, including Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, Hemivertebrae, and other genetic disorders. As a potential pet parent, it is important to be aware of these potential health problems in order to provide proper care. Take the Quiz Crossing a French Bulldog with a smaller dog breed The first and most obvious way of creating mini French Bulldogs is by crossbreeding a standard Frenchie with another small dog breed like a Yorkie or a Toy Poodle. Naturally, the pups will be mixes of the two breeds, so the breeding needs to be repeated across several generations until the puppies have all the physical traits of a Frenchie and retain only the small size of the other breed. Breeders usually achieve this around the third generation. Crossbreeding is not a new practice although it is quite a controversial one. However, it is still considered to be the safest method to produce a mini French Bulldog, and the simple reason for that is the health of the puppies. A crossbreed mini Frenchie is less likely to suffer from any of the health issues that their parents may be predisposed to. Breeding the runts of the litter Another method that some breeders use to create mini Frenchies is breeding runts. Constantly breeding such puppies with the aim to pass down the small-size trait not only involves possible health risks but it also takes multiple generations to achieve the desired miniature size. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies Breeding Frenchies with dwarfism The last and by far the worst method is purposefully breeding Frenchies with the dwarfism mutation gene to create puppies with shorter bodies and legs. Unfortunately it comes with a number of health issues for Frenchies who already have a delicate bone structure: it may not only cause a lot of pain for them in the legs, back, and hips but also significantly reduce their lifespan. Pros Mini Frenchies are a great choice for city dwellers who live in small apartments with little space. Due to their small size mini Frenchies require less food and exercise. They of course still need a high quality dog food as well as daily playtime and walks. Mini Frenchies have all the best personality traits that we adore in French Bulldogs: they are funny, affectionate and extremely friendly. Their adorable look is hard to resist! Ultimate Guide. They are also called the teacup French Bulldog and micro French Bulldog, all because of their tiny size. They might be cute, but suffer from severe health issues. Due to the health complications and ethical issues involved in their breeding, the AKC does not recognize this dog as an official breed. A mini Frenchie is never taller than 11 inches, though the exact measurements vary from pup to pup. How are Mini French Bulldogs Bred There are several unethical practices regarding the breeding process of teacup Frenchies. This results in various health problems and, consequently, a reduced lifespan than a standard French Bulldog, which lives for years. Over time they suffer from increased health problems due to their decreased length. Deliberately cultivating the genetic mutation that results in dwarfism — While Frenchies could naturally inherit the genetic mutation that results in dwarfism, sometimes breeders purposely use this mutation to create mini dogs. The puppies have shortened legs, narrow pelvises, and oversized heads, leading to breathing difficulties and back and hip pain. Crossing with smaller breeds — Smaller dogs like the Chihuahua, Poodle, and Yorkie are bred with the standard Frenchies. Dogs made this way include the French bullhuahua and the French Boodle. These dogs are sometimes falsely marketed as teacup Frenchies. Other Breeds to Explore. Conjunctivitis Patellar luxation French bulldogs are also known for being a brachycephalic breed. This means that they are more susceptible to suffering from brachycephalic airway syndrome. This health issue is one that many small dog breeds with short noses and smooshed-in faces suffer from as well, like the pomeranian and shih tzu. Because of their short nose bones, Frenchies may be more prone to respiratory issues that cause changes to the lungs, breathing trouble, and reflux, among other health problems. Royal Frenchels combat many of the health issues that mini Frenchies and other varieties of the breed are known for. In fact, Royal Frenchels percentage of health issues is 10 times lower than that of French Bulldog health statistics. You can learn more about our Royal Frenchel health statistics and our commitment to percent health transparency for the breed on our website. The Royal Frenchel is a unique breed with only one official breeder. Anahata Graceland is the creator of the breed, and she began her breeding career as a boxer and French bulldog breeder. An avid French Bulldog enthusiast, Graceland was inspired to create the Royal Frenchel Bulldog to mirror some of the best Frenchie traits while creating a healthier pet. However, there are other breeds in the mix to boost health, personality, trainability, and the other incredible traits these dogs possess. Royal Frenchels evolved into what they are today through more than 15 years of breeding and dedication to creating a healthy gene pool. Size Expectations The Royal Frenchel breed is available in three size variations. They average about 26 pounds, which is similar to the average size of a standard French bulldog. Regular Royals tend to range between 24 and 28 pounds, while small Royals tend to range between 14 and 22 pounds. The micro mini Royal Frenchel is closer to the size of a mini or teacup French bulldog, ranging between 9 and 14 pounds. Mini Royal Frenchels tend to look somewhat puppyish, even as adults, with their appearance staying the same even as they make the transition from pup to adult dog. Regular Royals, also look very much in appearance from puppyhood to adulthood, similar to standard Frenchies. Age Expectations According to the American Kennel Club, the average life expectancy of a French bulldog is 10 to 12 years. Mini French bulldogs average slightly higher. The same trend holds true with Royal Frenchels, with the micro mini versions usually outlasting regular and small versions of the breed. However, Royals have a longer lifespan , on average, than the French bulldog breed, even in its mini form. Royal Frenchels are known to live between 14 and 20 years, with Micro Mini Royal Frenchels often living closer to the year mark. Still, they enjoy going outside, taking walks, and even running around in the backyard with their family members. Royal Frenchels can vary in energy and exercise needs, depending on their size. Larger Royals tend to be more into hiking and adventures than smaller Royals, but all of them do well with a moderate exercise routine that keeps them moving, agile, and fit. This trait helps their bodies stay agile and strong as they jump around and run off their energy. Personality A large-but-laid-back, lovable personality is one of the best Royal Frenchel traits. Royals are known for their intelligence and people-pleasing attitude. These traits make them exceptionally eager to learn and train. Both breeds are easy-going, fun-loving, and sweet, making them calm and nurturing around kids and other pets. Royals take these beloved traits from the Frenchie and magnify them. These dogs are loving, affectionate pups who love to play and have fun. Separation Anxiety Any dog breed can suffer from separation anxiety, but some breeds are more prone to it than others, including the standard and mini French bulldog. Award-Winning Breed Some dog breeds are fortunate enough to be recognized by companies and award programs for their outstanding features that put them ahead of other breeds in specific categories, like longevity or temperament. Farmers Insurance, a company that provides pet insurance as one of its many types of insurance policies, recognizes the Royal Frenchel for its laid-back personality, athleticism, and ability to become an excellent family dog. This award comes after Farmers Insurance considered dog breeds, making it quite the accomplishment for our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and French Bulldog along with other breeds for stabilization mixed breed to achieve. Our Royals are part of our family for life, which is why we want to see both of you succeed once you head home. We offer collaborative training to our new Royal Primary Families. The Royal family is with you every step of the way. Anahata has bred dogs for more than half a century. There is no overlooking the sweet personality and cuteness of a Frenchie dog, but when it comes to health, and a mellow fun nature dedicated to serving you Royal Frenchel is leaps and bounds better than the French bulldog breed. A Royal Frenchel is one of the best family dogs you can have. Its laid-back temperament and willing, motivated, and easy-to-train attitude make it the perfect mix for a pet family. And, because there are different sizes of Royal Frenchels, you can even choose one that will keep its puppy-like look throughout its lifetime, much like the teacup French bulldog puppy. We invite you to contact us today on our website, by email, or phone to learn more about our beautiful breed and how you can prepare to adopt one. Micro Mini Royal Frenchel Bulldogs If you love the thought of tiny English bulldogs, then you are up for a real treat! Not only are Royal Frenchel Micro Mini bulldogs likely to live up to 20 years, they enjoy stellar health without breathing issues! Teacup French Bulldogs are really fun dogs. It is sad that they suffer so many of the same ills and health problems as the regular size French Bulldogs, sometimes more. They are fraught with allergies, cancer, spinal issues, knee issues, breathing problems and other health issues. Royal Frenchels, on the other hand, were created by a number of breeds crossing and allowing gene pools to loosen up the superglue of the traditional Frenchie genes to create an Award Winning long-lived dog with superior health and a great personality. Can live in an apartment if given enough exercise daily. Good with Children Yes. Teacup French Bulldog Temperament Teacup French Bulldogs are super affectionate and friendly, making them a great companion dog. While they are so friendly, they are not a great match for families with children as Teacup Frenchies are quite fragile due to their small size. They are also a good breed for apartment living due to their small size and low energy and exercise requirements. A Teacup French Bulldog gets to a height just under 11 inches .Teacup French Bulldogs have a lifespan of 8 to 10 years. Their lifespan is shorter than a Standard French Bulldog as they are more susceptible to health issues due to their tiny size. There are many factors that influence the cost of a Teacup Frenchie however coat color generally has the greatest effect. Rare coat colors such as merle are significantly more expensive than common coat colors. It is a better idea to get a standard-sized French Bulldog as they are generally healthier and will live longer. Check out the adorable Goldendoodle puppies that are currently available here! PuppySpot is a dog adoption website that connects breeders with prospective pet owners. They have a zero tolerance policy for puppy mills which is why they screen every breeder annually! They have placed over , puppies in homes and offer various trusted, USDA-certified transportation options to deliver your puppy to your home safely! They can either have solid coats of these colors or have patches of them. Rare colors include blue, lilac and merle. These colors are already hard to find for standard Frenchies so you are even less likely to find them for Teacup French Bulldogs. Their coat can also be described as a silver color. Many blue french bulldogs have a white patch on their chest and either light grey or pale pink in their ears. They often have blue or green eyes. You can read our full guide on Blue French Bulldogs here. Cream Teacup French Bulldog Cream Teacup French Bulldogs feature an off-white coat that can range from an almost white color to a rich yellow. Cream Frenchies usually have pink inside their ears and have light brown noses. Their eyes are usually dark brown or a greyish-brown color. Many Fawn Teacup French Bulldogs have blue eyes however others have grey or green eyes. The insides of their ears are usually a pale pink and their noses are the small color as the fur on their muzzle. Usually the base of their coat is tan and there are faint black stripes over it. The stripes are quite subtle and blend into each other so they sometimes look like a dark brown dog. They have blue, light grey or amber coloured eyes and a pink tint on their muzzle. The lilac coat color is a result of a mutation in the MLPH gene codes for a protein called melanophilin that results in a dilution of color. You can read our full guide on Lilac Frenchies here. Merle Teacup French Bulldog A Merle Teacup French Bulldog carries the merle gene which dilutes certain sections of their coat resulting in mottled patches of different colours and patterns. It also affects eye colour and skin pigmentation on the nose and paws. The most common merle coat colors are Blue Merle or Red Merle.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Photo: Amazon Going on walks with your dog might just be the easiest way to spend some daily quality time with your four-legged friend, but keeping them in line is not as simple. Dogs who aren't trained to heel might pull their harnesses or run every which way they want to go, so it's helpful to have a no-pull harness that keeps a simple walk with your dog from turning into a battle of wills. Better yet? A harness that's warm, waterproof, and comfortable so that fussy pups won't snake out of them within seconds, and Amazon shoppers say even dogs can't wiggle their way out of Puppia's Mountaineer II winter vest harness. Made with a soft fleece interior lining and an outer waterproof coat, the harness is perfect for cold and wet winter days. It's a "great winter vest for our small dachshund," said a reviewer of the Mountaineer II harness. The harness is strong and he will never be able to break it. The harness is very sturdy and solidly attached to the vest. Our puppers dislike anything pulled over their heads, so we all prefer the step-in design. The fabric under the back zipper helps keep their long fur from getting caught in the zipper, which is always a win. Sign up to get hand-picked deals, celebrity fashion inspo, and more delivered by text message. Since Puppia's Mountaineer II harness is nearly sold out in so many colors, we've narrowed down four colorways that are still fully in stock. Hurry and shop them to stop your dog from pulling you around the next time you go out for a walk on a wintry day. Amazon Buy It! Pinterest Email Choosing the perfect harness is a commonly discussed topic among dog lovers. A harness should be safe, comfortable, and easy to put on and take off. Ace and I have tried a number of different styles of harness during our nearly three years together, including harnesses designed to curb pulling. Because of this, for our most recent harness purchase, we primarily had in mind comfort, good fit, and style. I first noticed this harness because it comes in a variety of bright colors and looks like a little vest. I decided to buy Ace a Puppia soft harness after reading customer reviews that described this harness as fitting Boston Terriers , Pugs , and French Bulldogs well. Ace can sometimes be difficult to fit, so I was pretty excited to see if Puppia worked for her proportions. Ace wears a size medium, and the neck opening is a bit snug when I pull the harness over her head. The harness is flush against Ace but is not tight. While other harnesses have given Ace blisters under her armpits, I have not noticed the Puppia soft harness rubbing her uncomfortably on any part of her body. The Puppia soft harness is made from a spongy, synthetic mesh fabric. One drawback is that the piping, which is a different material than the mesh body of the harness, tends to attract and trap dog hair, even after going through the wash. Getting the Puppia soft harness on and off Ace is fairly straightforward, especially after doing it a few times. The harness goes over her head, and I lift her left front paw to go through the leg hole, clipping the belly strap on her right side. Ace is used to the process and helps out by pushing her head through the neck hole. The Puppia soft harness feels sturdy and secure. Many dog owners have told me that this style of harness is inappropriate for a dog who pulls, and that it might actually encourage pulling. Style: Puppia harnesses come in a rainbow of bright colors. Function: The Puppia harness holds Ace firmly and securely with solid hardware and a comfortable design. Value: Although my Puppia soft harness cost a few dollars more than other simple harnesses, it has been worth the investment because of its durability and great fit. Dogster readers, please share your experiences with the Puppia soft harness in the comments below. Learn more about dogs with Dogster:. References What to Look for in a French Bulldog Harness Are there any special considerations to take into account when choosing gear for a Frenchie? Related: Best Dog Harnesses Australia. What does that mean, except that they have cute faces? Well, the cute face also comes with its own set of issues. The main problem caused by BOAS is that it makes it difficult for dogs to breathe. As a consequence, they might be prone to coughing, get tired easily during exercise, and be prone to overheating. Here is what our research team say to pay attention to when choosing a harness for your Frenchie: The Right Fit French Bulldogs are one of those breeds that are a bit difficult to shop for. That means that the chest plate or the chest strap or any part that falls in that area should sit fairly low. While most standard harnesses have a lead attachment point on the back, there is also the option of a front-clip dog harness. According to our team of independent experts, front-clip dog harnesses are designed to help teach the dog to stop pulling. Well, for small short-nosed dogs, we generally do not recommend a front-clip harness. Comfort and Safety The key to finding the perfect harness for any dog is striking the right balance between comfort, safety, and durability [ 3 ]. However, these harnesses are typically not as strong and durable as some other options. On the other hand, while comfortable, a harness that covers too much of the body surface might trap heat so it might not be the best option for warm weather. The choices below are the ones we and our independent panel of experts were able to wholeheartedly agree are the best of the best. What sets this product apart from the rest? What more could we ask from a harness? The trick behind this harness is that it combines a design that is more common in typical H-shaped harnesses with a step-in mechanism, just like our number two choice. On taller and skinnier breeds, the chest part can look and feel a bit awkward, but it fits just right on the muscular frame of the French Bulldog. The only issue that might occur with this harness is the difficulty of finding the perfect fit.

Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. If you were thinking about purchasing one of these wonderful pets for your home but would like to know how to find the best breeder, keep reading while we answer that question and several more to help you make an informed decision. The 7 Labrador Retriever Breeders in the United States Finding a Labrador Retriever breeder in the United States should not be difficult, and with a little research, you should be able to find one near you. The only problem you might run into is the long waiting list you might need to get on due to the high demand for this breed. Waiting lists not only increase the time you need to wait for your puppy, they can also bump up the price significantly. It will also help you find any other kind of dog just by putting in your zip code. This site can be a pain because it requires you to download a browser extension, but it is easy to use after that. Labrador Puppies Village Labrador Puppies Village will be happy to ship your pet to you, and they have a wide selection. All puppies come with a health guarantee and have a complete checkup before you purchase them. Windsor Kennels English Labs Check waddelldogbreeding. They produce several litters per year, and they have a waiting list you can get on and they will notify you when new puppies arrive. The Labrador Retriever Rescue Check humanesociety. Many people can no longer take care of their pets for one reason or another and turn to the shelter for help to rehome their pets. Some dogs will even have their vaccination shots. Adopting a puppy from a shelter also frees resources so the shelter can use them for other pets in need. Skye Labradors Skye Labradors is an authenticated breeder who has been creating puppies for more than 25 years and produces several litters per year. Tonmar Labradors Tonmar Labradors are officially sanctioned breeders that produce several litters each year using numerous queens. The current demand can produce a waiting list which might drive up costs, and if you want breeding rights, you need to pay more. If you do not get breathing rights, you will need to get the dog spayed or neutered, and it will require several vaccinations over the first few years, which will require visits to your vet. You will also need to regularly buy food, treats, and toys to keep your dog healthy and happy. We recommend asking to see the health certificate of the parents as well as the puppies to rule out any hidden issues. We recommend asking if you can see the whole litter to make sure the rest of the dogs are healthy and happier. We recommend asking if the puppies had any vaccinations and if they take deworming medication. We recommend asking the breeder about their experience breeding these dogs. Laboratory Retrievers like to run, and since they are fairly large dogs, they will need plenty of space to move around without knocking things over or getting into trouble. Labrador Retrievers are clumsy animals, and since they can weigh as much as 80 pounds, they may not be suitable to have around small children. Laboratory Retrievers have a long lifespan with many specimens lasting 15 years or more, so you need to be committed to the long haul before purchasing one of these dogs. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent animals and are easy to train once you get them into a routine and stick with it. Next on your reading list: Labany Conclusion Labrador Retrievers make great pets. They are affectionate, intelligent, and relatively healthy with long lifespans. Finding a breeder is not difficult, and there are many high-quality ones spread across the United States that can create the perfect dog for you. We recommend checking the animal shelter first because you can usually get your dog at a much lower cost, and these animals tend to be grateful and better behaved. However, there are plenty of options if there are no dogs in the shelter. Related read:. Life Span Did You Know? There is a reason that year after year, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed in the United States. The history of the Labrador Retriever dates back to the early s in Newfoundland, just off the Atlantic coast of Canada. Had these families not played a vital part in the continuation of the breed, the loving and affectionate Labs we have all grown to love may not exist today. The first recognized Yellow Labrador Retriever was born in .One of the friendliest breeds out there, Yellow Labs are great companions and love to be a part of the family. While the color yellow is part of their namesake, their coats range from fawn or cream to butterscotch or a deep golden hue. Coming into popularity during the midth century, the Yellow Labrador Retriever has been a staple for hunters and family homes alike ever since. These dogs are patient and kind when faced with energetic young ones. Yellow Labs delight in big spaces, opting to run and play wildly. However, they will happily lounge on the couch after having a long, hard run outside. When given a little training, they can easily learn to control barking habits and restrain themselves from digging. Their double coat also makes them a good fit for just about any climate. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold. Generally speaking, Labradors are healthy. They can develop certain inherent conditions, along with cataracts and kneecap displacement, but will remain healthy overall. As long as they are taken to their vet appointments with regularity, Labs will usually feel just fine. Yellow Labs are loyal companions with few drawbacks. Treats never hurt, of course. This, paired with their eagerness to please, makes them a highly trainable dog breed that is a good fit for owners of any experience level. With minimal training, these dogs can control their barking and digging without much trouble. Labs have very short, double-layered, and water-resistant fur. Its density protects them from the cold, so they will often try to swim any time of year. They experience heavier seasonal shedding twice a year and slight shedding throughout the year. Giving them a good brush once a week or a few times a week should keep their coats shiny and healthy. Other grooming tasks include nail trimming, ear care, and dental care. Proper dental care for dogs includes brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day. This helps prevent the tartar buildup that causes dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with dental hygiene chews, a special dental care diet, and more. This breed tends to be very active. They were bred to be working dogs and need exercise. A few daily walks and some time to run should help assuage their energy levels. Yellow Labs also need a fair amount of mental activity as well; they like to stay sharp. Yellow Labs are classified as medium to large dogs. They reach an average height of 23 inches and an average healthy weight of 75 pounds. A Yellow Labrador Retriever generally lives years. It was traditional in Newfoundland for every fishing boat to have a Labrador Retriever that would help retrieve the fish as they came in off the trawl. Featured Yellow Labrador Retriever Article. Life Span Did You Know? Black Labrador Retrievers, or just Black Labs, are a common coat color variation of one of the most popular dog breeds. The Black Labrador Retriever is not necessarily a separate dog breed. Black Labs are still Labrador Retrievers; they just have a distinct coat color that is a specifically-bred characteristic. Like other Labrador Retrievers, Black Labs are energetic, playful, and affectionate dogs that make great family companions. Although they are active and energetic dogs, Labs are also known for their gentleness and patience with other family members. Well-socialized Black Labs tend to get along well with just about everyone including children, other dogs, pets, and even strangers. They are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , Black Labs thrive on attention, especially from their favorite humans. They are happiest when they are spending time with their families and receiving affection and attention from them. Despite their high energy, Labs are highly adaptable dogs. They do tend to be better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run, but they also adapt well to apartments provided they get enough daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. They do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold like many dog breeds. As such, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Black Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, heart disease, hereditary myopathy, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Another potential health concern is EIC exercise-induced collapse , which can occur in young adult Labs and has a genetic link. Because carriers can be identified by DNA tests, it is recommended that breeders test for them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you talk to the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Labrador Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Although their high energy and puppylike exuberance can sometimes be a challenge, they are intelligent dogs that are eager to please. As long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive rewards and praise, novice owners still tend to do well with Black Labs. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training too. Black Labs have a short, water-resistant double coat that sheds year-round and sheds heavier as seasons change. Depending on how active your Black Lab is and what they get into, they may need a bath more often, especially if they are swimming a lot. Weekly ear checks and careful cleanings when needed help prevent ear infections. Good dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. As one of the most active dog breeds , a Black Labrador Retriever will need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are a minimum. Your Black Lab will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood. They tend to maintain a puppylike exuberance until they are years old. Although they do tend to mellow out as they get older, they are still active, energetic, and playful dogs. Once they are fully grown, you can try other things like hiking, running, dock diving, and more to find other activities you and your Black Lab can enjoy together. Fully-grown Black Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Black Labs generally live for years on average. Black Labrador Retrievers came before the also-popular Chocolate Lab. All modern Chocolate Labs can be traced back to three Black Labs in the s. It was the December issue of .Featured Black Labrador Retriever Article.