labradoodle puppy care

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. Is there anything cuter than a two-month-old Golden Retriever puppy? At eight weeks old, they are absolutely, impossibly, unbearably adorable! At two months old, a Golden Retriever is ready to leave their mother and littermates to join their new family. Some breeders will keep a puppy for a couple more weeks before sending them home, but eight weeks is very typical. Puppies at this age are usually playful and curious, with brains like little sponges. This usually only lasts a day or two, and then their true personality will shine through! They are in the prime socialization window here, which is the time between three and sixteen weeks when puppies are most open to learning about the world. Proper socialization can help you buffer against potential behavior issues as your pup matures, and teaches them how to feel and act in different situations and environments. It helps them feel confident and self-assured. A two-month-old Golden Retriever puppy is constantly learning! Make sure your puppy is learning that they are safe and that they can trust you both at home and out in the world. A fear period is a temporary span of time where a puppy may be more sensitive to things like strange people, strange dogs, inanimate objects, sounds, etc. It usually lasts about a week and you may notice your puppy showing signs of fear such as cowering, running away, growling, or barking. It can be a little scary as the owner of a puppy to see them acting this way. The good thing is that a fear period is short-lived and will pass. If they are concerned about something or someone, help them get more distance so they can observe the thing while feeling safe. They have a lot of needs and are totally dependent on you to meet those needs. Be patient as you help them learn how to live in our human world, and you can develop a strong, positive bond with your new companion. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! This is heavily influenced by genetics, but is not always the best indicator of their adult weight. Some lines of Goldens are bigger or smaller than average, so puppy size will reflect that. Your vet can help you make sure that your puppy is at an appropriate weight if you have any concerns. Eight-week-old Golden Retrievers need around 18 hours of sleep each day. Oftentimes, a puppy that is wild and bitey is in fact overly tired and in need of a nap. It may seem like they need more exercise to drain that crazy energy, but they actually need sleep. Using crates and pens can help ensure that your puppy is getting enough sleep at night and throughout the day. Many two-month-old Goldens are not good at putting themselves down for a nap, even when they really need it. So, you may need to step in and help your puppy settle in for some sleep. Make sure that their crate or pen is nice and comfy before you put them in for a nap, so they are more able to relax and fall asleep. Every puppy is different, so yours may prefer a nice cushy bed , or they may actually like laying on the bare floor. You can take note of what kinds of surfaces your puppy lays on around the house and then recreate that in the crate or pen. Covering the crate or pen with a blanket can also help make sleep easier for a two-month-old puppy, as it cuts down on the visual stimulation. Products like Adaptil spray or diffuser , and the Snuggle Puppy toy can also help a puppy settle in for sleep. Chewing and licking are naturally calming behaviors for puppies, so it can also help if you offer something like a stuffed kong , which can assist in transitioning the puppy from awake to asleep. Playing Classical music can also help a puppy feel more calm and able to sleep. At this age, most two-month-old puppies are ready for sleep after about an hour of awake time, so by following these tips, you can help make sure your puppy is getting enough quality rest. Instead, you can give them a break and see if they choose to get up, or simply scoop them up and walk home. Sometimes people get a Golden Retriever to be a running or biking companion, which can be a great thing when the pup is a fully grown adult, but is too much exercise for a young puppy. Playing with toys in the house or in the yard can be a great way for young pups to burn some of that puppy energy. If you have a yard, letting your pup safely explore and run around outside can also be a nice way to get in some exercise. You may also find that your puppy needs more sleep on some days, and on other days, they need more playtime and exercise. Golden Retrievers as a breed can also vary a lot in terms of exercise needs. Some are pretty laid back and chill and others are up for anything and want to go hard. These differences can be reflected in how much energy your puppy has, as well as in what kind and how much exercise your puppy needs. Training is an excellent way to build a positive bond with your puppy and create a way to communicate with each other. Group puppy classes can be a good option for getting started with training, as the trainer will help you learn how to train your pup. You can also hire a certified, professional trainer to come to your home and provide personalized training guidance for you and your puppy. Before you sign up with any trainer, be sure to ask them what kind of training methods and tools they use, to avoid causing any physical or mental distress for your puppy. Potty training is definitely a top priority for two-month-old puppies. They have small bladders and bowels and will need frequent trips outside to help them learn appropriate potty behavior. Crate training can also be started at this age, as learning how to be okay with confinement is an important life skill. Eight-week-old Golden Retriever puppies eat about a half cup of food three times per day. There is no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to feeding your two-month-old Golden. Puppies at this age need more frequent meals than adult Goldens, so three meals a day is recommended. Because two-month-old Goldens are undergoing so much growth at this stage, feed them high-quality food that can support them as they mature. Most Goldens have big appetites and will happily gobble down their meals when you serve them. Using slow feeder bowls like this bowl on Amazon , or other food dispensing toys, such as the Planet Dog Snoop , can help slow down their eating and provide them some mental stimulation while they eat. Puppies like to put things in their mouth as a way to learn and play. Unfortunately, it can be pretty painful for humans, as those puppy teeth are needle-sharp! There are, however, some things you can do to minimize and deal with the biting. First, ensure that your two-month-old Golden is getting enough sleep. Overly tired puppies tend to get super bitey and frenzied, so naps are key to preventing your puppy from turning into a piranha. Your floor might look a little cluttered, but it helps to keep toys within reach for a quick redirection. Third, you can simply give the puppy a break if they are on a biting spree. You could step on the other side of a baby gate or put them in their pen to calm down a bit, and then resume the play. This communicates to the puppy that when they bite, they lose access to you and the fun stops. A common piece of advice when dealing with puppy biting is to yelp in response to their nip, as if you were another dog. This is actually not a good way to handle puppy biting and can actually make it worse. Other puppies will be further excited by the yelp sound and come at you with even more intensity, resulting in harder bites. Good Beginnings Bringing a two-month-old Golden Retriever home is a very exciting thing. It can also feel pretty overwhelming as you figure out how to care for and train them. You might be sleep-deprived and have a couple scratches on your hand from those sharp puppy teeth, but try to keep in mind that this is the beginning of a special relationship with an incredible animal. Focus on bonding with your puppy, teaching them about the world, and creating good habits from the start. Have any questions about raising eight-week-old golden retrievers? Let me know down in the comments! Read the rest of our Golden Retriever puppy series here:. How much does an 8-week-old Golden Retriever sleep? How much exercise does your 2-month-old Golden Retriever need? Eight weeks is typically when breeders allow puppies to be taken to their new homes, but some breeders keep them for a couple of extra weeks. This shy, sleepy puppy will eventually get more comfortable with its new environment and come out of its shell in a couple of days. Socialization is important for eight-week-old golden pups. Getting your pup used to these things is a good way to avoid potential behavioral issues as the puppy matures because it allows them to learn how to feel and react to various stimuli and leaves you with a confident, well-adjusted pup. You need to reinforce the idea that your puppy is safe and gain their trust during this time period. During this time, pups will be a little more fearful of things like strangers, sounds, and certain objects. It will pass, and usually only lasts a week or so. It can be a little scary or discouraging for the owner of a golden puppy to see them go through this fear period, especially if they start exhibiting fear towards people. Goldens are known to be such friendly and social dogs, so watching them exhibit such antisocial traits can be off-putting. You can still get them outside and introduce them to new things, just remain mindful of their feelings. You need to be patient with an eight-week-old puppy. These adorable balls of energy and fluff are completely dependent on you to meet their needs and there are a LOT of needs! Check out our article on the Best Shampoo for Golden Retrievers so you can meet their hygiene needs! You need to be patient with them so that you can not only bond with your new pup, but also help him grow and learn about the world around him. Sometimes the puppy that was the smallest puppy in the litter can grow and quickly become the largest. And the largest puppy of the litter may not always remain the largest. As a breed, Golden Retrievers vary in size and weight. So you should enjoy that before they grow too big to pick up and cuddle! You may be surprised to learn that 8-week-old Golden puppies require about 18 hours of sleep a day. This may seem counter-intuitive because most people would assume that if a puppy is full of energy it needs to run it off, but in all actuality what they really need is sleep. You should use either pens or crates to make sure that your pup gets the optimal amount of sleep both through the night and during the day. Here are some things you can do to help your puppy nap: Adorn their crate or pen with comfortable blankets or pillows. Learn whether your pup likes to sleep on a bed or on the floor, then set their crate or pen up accordingly. Cover the crate or pen using a blanket or towel so that their visual stimulation is limited. You can use aromatherapy products for dogs to lull your pup to sleep. Get your puppy something like a stuffed Kong toy because licking and chewing are relaxing to pups. Classical or calming music can help your puppy get to sleep. You can expect that your pup should be ready for a nap after being awake for around an hour. So, you can get him to sleep easier using these tips. An 8-week-old Golden Retriever puppy is largely able to know how much exercise it needs all on its own. What you should do instead is either pick them up and take them home or give them a break and see if they get a second wind. Golden Retrievers excel at playing fetch, but you need to keep games short. The running and then suddenly stopping to pick the ball or toy up and bring it back is hard on their tiny bones. People often adopt Golden Retrievers with the intent of getting a companion to exercise with running, hiking, biking, etc. Allowing your puppy to play with toys in your yard or house can be a good, safe way for your puppy to exercise. Having a yard is ideal because you can let your pup run around the yard and explore, while also burning off some excess energy. Just make sure you choose a short, easy walk that your puppy can handle. However, some days they have more energy than others, which is normal. Every Golden Retriever has varying exercise needs. Some are pretty chill and would rather lay around, while others are really hyper and active. You need to know that positive reinforcement works best for Golden Retrievers. You should avoid any sort of training that is based on punishment. There are also other training methods that can be beneficial to your pup. Group training is a good way to get your pup acquainted with other dogs and learn alongside them, while the trainer provides you with ways to better train your pup. You also have the option to hire a professional dog trainer, who will come to your house and give you customized tips to train your puppy. Before hiring any sort of trainer, ask them about the methods they use to avoid distress for puppies. They need to learn about confinement early on. Another important thing to teach your pup is their name, and to come to you when you call them. The bond with your pup is vital to any other training you do with them. For more about the training process, check out our article about Golden Retriever Puppy Training. Hey, food is good, okay? Most 8-week-old Golden Retriever puppies should be eating around half a cup of food three times a day. So, talk to your vet for a specific amount. They need high-quality puppy food. For more about what to feed your pup, check out our article about the Best Puppy Food for Golden Retrievers. Your golden puppy will probably quickly devour any food you place in front of them. It can be a good idea to buy a slow feeder bowl or toys that dispense food to slow them down a bit while also giving them some mental stimulation and making mealtime fun. Just as infants put things in their mouths, puppies do too. They do this to both plays and learn about their world. This can really suck for humans because puppies have sharp little teeth that feel like needles. The good news is that you can do some things to cut back on the biting and learn to deal with it. The first thing right off the bat you should do is to make sure your puppy is getting enough sleep. Secondly, scatter chew toys all over your house. Third, give your puppy a break if they start biting. This is as easy as going on the other side of their gate or putting them in their crate. This lets your pup know that when they start biting, the play stops, and access to you is denied. Many people suggest yelping and making loud noises when your puppy bites. But this is actually pretty counter-productive because it can make the situation worse by scaring the puppy. Other puppies can get more excited by the noise and bite harder. Biting is just something that puppies at this age do. However, remember that getting through this trying time is going to help you establish a lifelong bond with your new family member. We are overjoyed for you! Golden Retrievers are one of the most friendly and loving breeds…and lucky for you, one of the easiest to train. Golden Retrievers require a great deal of mental stimulation to avoid going about on their own or becoming frustrated. Their love for food is infinite. Prerequisites for training my Golden Retriever puppy? What age can I start to train my Golden Retriever puppy? Sounds like a good deal! We can only hope. What do I need to train my Golden Retriever? Say bye to that sticky, meaty feeling in your fingertips. A piece of non-slip vet bed or a soft mat: For a cozy bed, warm nights, and good dreams. Treats: The more smelly, the better. Two identical toys : Great for swaps! The name says it all…your Golden Retriever puppy will love retrieving, so identical toys will be great for all the games we have in store for you in the Zigzag Puppy training app. Of course, Golden Retrievers grow to be big dogs. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? A golden retriever needs 2 hours of exercise a day. What age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? Golden Retrievers reach adulthood at 3 years of age and are seniors by 8 years old. Though their height has been reached, their weight will still fill out and they will continue to mentally mature. What are Golden Retrievers bred for? Distinctly British, the 1st Baron of Tweedmouth developed the breed crossing his golden colored retrieving dog Nous with a Tweed Water Spaniel — these look similar to Irish Water Spaniels. The cross resulted in a dog that was comfortable being on land and water kind of like crocodiles , and robust enough to hunt goose, partridge and even deer. Do Golden Retrievers make good family pets? In fact, Golden Retrievers are one of the most loved dog breeds in the UK. The Kennel Club has a lot more good information and info about them. What does this have to do with how I train my Golden Retriever puppy? But there is a logic as to why knowing the context might help you train your Golden Retriever better: Golden Retrievers love to work. Commonly employed as Guide Dogs, they love having a job to do, which means they will adore training. Anyhow, they will be a breeze to train. They will also do almost anything for your soft words and approval — your praise will work just as well as treats. Because they are so gentle, they are a great fit for families with a variety of lifestyles and ages. They need a good amount of exercise; mental as well as physical. Let us rephrase — a hefty amount of exercise. Besides you and food, being in water is what they love the most! They have a very strong sense of smell, so retrieving or scent work games tend to be the biggest treat for most. Golden Retrievers are the social butterflies of dogs. They love most people, and are not discreet in showing it. You know how us Brits can be about politeness. That being said, make sure you also teach them the wonders of giving things up. It can lead to great things! But it can also be less helpful when they give you a love bite on your arm — give them a toy to carry instead. Shift to some play, and revisit training later — we want training to be associated with fun, and not something they begin to dread. Golden Retriever puppies are easy to train to basic or advanced obedience standards. They enjoy physical activity and have many favorable traits as a gundog bred to retrieve downed game birds. They are friendly and gentle and often train as assistance or detection dogs due to their easy trainability. Apart from starting training while young, other breed-specific reasons make training a Golden Retriever puppy easy. Here are three examples: Golden Retrievers are among the smartest dog breeds. In his book, The Intelligence of Dogs , canine psychologist Stanley Coren ranks Goldens fourth of the brightest working dogs. So, even at just two months old, your puppy has it in his genes to learn and execute commands. To perform their original hunting job of retrieving felled ducks and other game birds in the Scottish marshland, Golden Retrievers had to be watchful, eager, and energetic. These are primary learning attributes. Golden Retrievers also have advanced skills as gundogs. They also have to excel at obedience. These are core training requirements that make your Golden Retriever easy to train. To succeed in your training mission, however, there are specific principles you need to follow. Read about these key training standards in the next section. Key Principles of Golden Retriever Puppy Training The purpose of any dog training is to have behavioral skills mastered. I explain these training requirements in my 10 key principles of successful Golden Retriever puppy training. However, they also have to handle grooming, making them feel uncomfortable. Your Golden Retriever can learn to manage this uneasiness if exposed to handling when young. In one study, puppies subjected to early gentling behaved more calmly at 8 weeks old than puppies not experiencing early handling. You can continue to hold your pup gently as soon as you arrive home. Teach Name Recognition How does your Golden Retriever puppy know you are talking to him if you only make commands? It would be best to teach him his name as this is the foundation for his future training. Say his name first, then give the command. That way, your pup knows to answer when you call. Assert Yourself as the Alpha Leader In dog training, your Golden Retriever must know that you are the boss from the start. Set rules and boundaries, and be consistent and fair. He will respect you as being top of the hierarchy. Never mistake being the alpha with punishment. It will only cause resentment. An alpha leader is calm and assertive, teaches his dog to be happily submissive, and approves of the behavior. Rewards reinforce the behavior, and you can use treats, a favorite toy, or activity, in conjunction with lots of verbal praise. Only Give a Command Once When it comes to training, you reap what you sow! Teach your pup to heed a command the first time you say it. Then make lots of eye contact. Repeat until he learns to obey the first time you give the cue. Dogs have poor short-term memory and will typically forget an experience in 2 minutes, as discovered in this experiment. However, dogs can recall your training commands through associative memory, which means they remember based on associations and not memories. For example, if you put your shoes on and grab your car keys, your Golden Retriever knows you are going out. Once your puppy has corrected his undesirable behavior with the required behavior, reward him with a high-value treat and heaps of praise. Other unacceptable confrontational methods include growling at your dog, forcefully removing an object from the mouth, withdrawing food, staring, using a shock collar, or tying your dog for hours. Your dog needs to have consistency, which means everyone else in the household. Dogs need simple training instructions, and everyone should also use the same verbal and non-verbal cues. Perform the same basic commands every day. At this young age, ten minute sessions are far better than a ten-minute session. For this reason, it is important to wean your puppy off treats when he has repeatedly performed the desired behavior and mastered it, including in different locations and with various distractions. With these ten principles, you can now apply them to the essential areas that you need to train your 8-week-old Golden Retriever puppy in first. How to Socialize a Golden Retriever Puppy Dogs are social creatures, especially the Golden Retriever, who is super friendly, good-natured, and loves to be around you. To socialize a Golden Retriever, expose him to many different experiences, places, and situations. Include noises, smells, other people, children, babies, animals, cars, bicycles, objects, the weather, etc. Early socializing and training your Golden Retriever plays a significant role in developing adult dogs, as found in this exciting study. Check out these two important findings: Dogs socialized well as puppies are less likely to display unwanted behavioral problems such as fear and aggression. Socialized dogs are more likely to engage in positive social behaviors with humans. They also learn better how to play games, helping them establish a real bond with their owners. Socialization will make your puppy feel confident around people and teach him to engage in his new world happily. You can teach your Golden Retriever social skills and confidence through intentional training moments in the family. My best tips: Take one step at a time. Use positive reinforcement. I often get asked whether you can socialize your puppy before his final vaccinations. Take him to non-doggy places or carry him where necessary. To potty train an 8-week-old Golden Retriever, create a separate area where you want your puppy to go, establish a routine, and start with hourly potty breaks. Supervise your puppy at all times, learn to spot the signs, and never punish him after an accident. Give lots of rewards and praise when he goes. Many new dog owners fall for this — your puppy has to learn to tell you he needs the toilet. Make sure you take your puppy outside often enough. Stick to your schedule! It is a gradual process for him to grasp this. It may take a few weeks to master potty training, not days! Usually, puppies will need to go early in the morning, after a meal, and after a play session. Use their natural rhythm for daily poop walks. Dogs hate messing in their sleeping area, and most will usually hold it. Walk your Golden after his morning meal and hang around for 15 minutes or so to allow him to poop. Do the same in the evening. Puppies need to be allowed to relieve themselves every hour, and a short walk every hours is an ideal routine. If you crate your puppy when going out, get friends or family to help you stick to your routine. Repeating this routine for the first few days will give your new pup a pretty good idea of your expectations. To crate train a Golden Retriever puppy, get him used to the crate by letting him explore it. When he is happy to go in and out freely, introduce treats or feed inside, and close the door; that way, he associates nice things with his crate. Gradually increase the time he spends inside with the door closed. Here are seven fundamental principles when crate-training your Golden Retriever: Let your puppy sleep in the crate at night. Initiate crate training on the very first day. It will be harder to succeed if he gets accustomed to other sleeping arrangements! My puppy cried during the early hours of the first night, but then, she was just fine. A rough guideline for puppies to be left alone in a crate is one hour for each month of age, up to four hours. Keep your puppy in the crate when unsupervised. It only sends a message that he can get his way. Instead, reward good behavior in the crate, i. He will quickly associate that being quiet leads to positive things. He will quickly learn that this is his particular spot. Interesting toys and comfy bedding will offer some solace for your Golden Retriever. Dogs are denning animals, so they often go underneath tables or desks. Instead, buy a crate with an adjustable divider that allows him to grow into it. My favorite is the MidWest Homes for Pets Dog iCrate from Amazon, as it has everything you need, including a divider and a handy removable wipe-clean plastic pan. Travel kennels like this Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel check price on Amazon are also hardy when you are on the move with your dog. This one is also airline adaptable and meets most airline cargo specifications. This sends a message that the bite hurts. Persist by leaving your hand in his mouth to prevent chase drive until he releases. Then, give praise and redirect the biting with a chew toy. When your puppy gets the hang of repeatedly letting go, and his bite becomes softer, this is a good sign that he is beginning to learn his bite inhibition. Helping a dog learn to curb the force of his bite is necessary to living with humans. All puppies need to master this technique that they initially began learning from their mother and siblings. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Training your Golden Retriever puppy soft bite must be done in puppyhood as an adolescent dog will not be able to adjust the force of his jaws when he has adult teeth and jaw muscles. Remember to have realistic expectations, as it can take your puppy weeks to learn his bite inhibition. Teach a leash cue, and start very short walks. Reward with a treat and praise. You can do this by letting him wear them inside the house or yard for a few minutes. I use this one as it gives you more control, is inexpensive, and comes in various colors and styles. Give a treat when your dog obeys the command. Introduce your Golden Retriever to short outside walks on his leash. Anticipate the behavior and quickly distract him with a treat. Timing is the crucial part. Reward him every time commands are obeyed and gradually reduce the rewards as the art of leash walking is perfected. Follow the excellent training principles above and use reward-based training to train your puppy in these areas successfully. Be consistent in your commands, and always discipline at the precise moment of unwanted behavior. Are you looking for a puppy training schedule? Related Posts You May Like:. We took each puppy individually and did a rigorous eh, not really test to find out which puppies would be best suited to do service dog work. However, there were two tests that stood out: The Retrieve Test — We crumpled up a piece of paper next to our puppy to get his attention. I mentioned we performed 10 tests, but the results of the above two ended up determining which puppies would be our next service dog puppies in training. Puppy temperament testing is tiring! Liberty Berlin — While she performed about the same as all the other pups on every other test, Liberty stood out during the Umbrella Stability Test. She was the only puppy to enthusiastically approach the Umbrella. We knew from day 1 that Liberty was a confident puppy and had a good feeling that she would have no problem with the Umbrella. She lived up to our expectations boldly and playfully engaging the umbrella. Tank Bear — One of the larger puppies in the litter, Bear was our little cuddly buddy. He did not do well on the Umbrella Stability Test and neither did three of his siblings. However, Bear was a standout when it came to the Retrieve Test. Bear was the only puppy to run out, pick up, and bring back the crumpled-up piece of paper. Not only was he the only one to do it once he did it several times! Trooper Buster — Our smallest puppy by over 3 lbs. Trooper was our mini-mite. Even though he was the smallest he may have been the mightiest as he was the first of only 2 puppies Liberty was the other to climb out of the whelping box. While not exhibiting the enthusiasm of Liberty during the Umbrella Stability test Trooper had a more curious attitude towards the opened Umbrella as he approached, sniffed, and explored showing a more calm demeanor than Liberty. The response of the other puppies on the Umbrella Stability Test ranged from slowly moving away from the umbrella to cowering and running away from the umbrella. The Golden Bear Puppy — Checking out different surfaces. Day 56 — Puppy Names Since the beginning of this series, you may have noticed I listed 2 names for some of these puppies. After 8 weeks with these adorable puppies, they finally got to meet their puppy raisers. Bear stayed with us while Buster and Berlin went to new homes. Awww…Cuddly Golden Retriever puppies! Berlin — Our former first lady she was first born , Liberty first went to a puppy raiser home until she was 16 weeks old. Unfortunately, I did not have a puppy raiser to work with her for the full 18 months. As luck would have it the breeder we partnered with for this Golden litter was looking for a female puppy as a potential breeding dog. Again, we did not have a puppy raiser to train him and we looked to a service dog organization we volunteered with in the past. We contacted Tender Loving Canine Assistance Dogs and set up a meeting to have Buster tested, and he passed with flying colors. They fell in love with Buster on the spot and adopted him into their POOCH program where he is being trained at a prison to be a service dog. We kept our Lil Bear to train as a service dog. From the beginning, we knew he was a little softy, but he passed the retrieval test with flying colors so we had high hopes for him. We started taking him on outings to the book store, grocery stores, and shopping malls. He never showed the confidence we hoped and while he would eventually adapt to places after several visits he was always hesitant in new situations. He continued to progress and we were hopeful his confidence would grow as we exposed him to new environments and worked on his training. At the same time, an opportunity arose and we had to make a decision with Bear. Our friends had recently lost their long-time Golden Retriever, Sugar, and also tragically lost a puppy they had adopted. After discussing with my wife we decided to see if our friends were interested in adopting Bear. They said YES! And the rest is history. Heck, he has a huge following cheering for him every step of the way! Puppy Crate Training ? Once again, Happy Birthday to our Golden Litter! That concludes our 8-week journey with our Golden puppies! Just in case you missed any of the other blog posts in the series: Week 1 — Six Golden Retriever puppies are born! Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — The great puppy escape artists! Week 8 — This is Week 8! I hope you enjoyed our pics and insights into raising a Golden Retriever litter. Raising a litter of puppies is a lot of fun, but also a lot of work. Definitely not for the faint at heart. If you have any questions or comments please leave us a note in the comment section below. Are you about to bring home an 8-week-old Golden Retriever puppy? If so, Puppies for Dummies is a good starting point for learning the basics of how to raise and train a puppy. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Pocket To be considered a pocket American bully, a male must be between 14 and 17 inches cm at the shoulder, and a female must be between 13 and 16 inches cm at the shoulder. Otherwise, this size has the same proportions and characteristics as the standard American bully. XL XL Extra Large American bullies are bigger than the standard size but should have the same build and overall proportions. Males are between 20 and 23 inches cm and females range between 19 and 22 inches cm. At this time, this is the largest accepted size for this breed. Classic Although the classic type of the American Bully is the same height as the standard, this type is recognized by a difference in build. These dogs are less muscular and have narrower frames than the standard, pocket, and XL varieties. What is a Micro American Bully? Instead, these are simply alternate names for pocket American bullies. High-quality adult dogs with proven track records for producing unique or outstanding puppies may sell for even more. The full history of the American Bully goes back several hundreds of years when bulldogs and terriers were used for sport. When these cruel animal-fighting sports died out, the remaining dogs were bred together and the first bull terriers were created. Over time, these dogs became a more diverse group and included many of the types of bully breeds listed above. When breeders wanted to create the ultimate companion dog from these bully breeds, they began combining pit bulls with Staffordshire bull terriers and mixing in other breeds. They ended up creating the American Bully, a dog that has all of the characteristics that make these breeds great companions with the aggressive tendencies bred out of them. They can live 10 — 13 years As long as you take excellent care of them, your American bully could live between 10 and 13 years. One of the things you need to do to ensure a long life for your American bully is to keep an eye out for these common health problems and talk to your vet if you have any concerns about them. Atopy — This second most common skin problem in dogs is caused by allergies. Cerebellar abiotrophy — An inherited condition that affects the brain and nervous system, most symptoms will show up within days of birth. Cataracts — Although many dogs live for years with small cataracts that minimally affect their vision, others will need surgery to remove them or else face blindness. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This incurable disease causes a dog to slowly lose their eyesight, first their night vision, and then their regular eyesight. Cleft palate or lip — These malformations of the roof of the mouth or lip can be purely cosmetic or much more severe and require special care and surgeries. Ichthyosis — Dogs with this condition will experience a thickening of the skin and paw pads as well as flaking of the paw pads. Hypothyroidism — A decrease in activity in the thyroid will cause dogs to gain weight, become less active, and lose their fur. Congenital heart failure — This serious condition causes the heart to become enlarged and fill the body with fluids. Something else that bullies are prone to is gassiness. This can be caused by a number of issues such as poor diet, food allergies, or bad eating habits. To avoid your bully suffering from gas, first make sure they are being fed a high-quality food. Then, start looking for other causes of flatulence in dogs. American bullies are easy to train Like many other dog breeds, bullies love pleasing their owner which makes them easy to train. This breed requires exercise Since the American Bully comes from working dogs, this breed has retained its abundance of energy. Bored dogs often turn into destructive dogs. American bullies make great family dogs American bullies are one of the best examples of a perfect family dog. One thing to keep in mind is that although one of the goals of forming this breed was to remove aggression, some bullies will still have problems with other dogs. For this reason, you should use caution when bringing an adult bully into your home if you have other pets. American bullies require little grooming For a breed that requires little grooming , look no further than the American Bully. They have a short, smooth coat that only needs to be quickly brushed once a week or so. Something to keep in mind, however, is that this fur type also can get cold easily in the winter. So if you live somewhere that has particularly cold winters, then you may need to put your bully in a sweater or jacket to go outside side when the temperature drops too far below freezing. A bully in a sweater is just about the cutest thing ever. Step 1: Decide What Size You Want Knowing what size bully you want will help you narrow down search results very quickly. Will you be breeding them as a way to continue improving the breed? Do you want to show them professionally or just for fun? Or, do you simply want an amazing family pet? Step 3: Find a Breeder Once you know exactly what you want, you can begin your search for a good American bully breeder. In most cases, you will have to put down a deposit on puppies and dogs in advance, so be prepared to do that. What About Adoption? Since there are a lot of abandoned Bully dogs in need of new home, consider adopting one. Lifespan Sociability As you know, Pitbulls have a bad rap. Both parent breeds are relatively healthy, with few glaring issues. They are reasonably friendly, which also helps. They are intelligent dogs, which means that you need to take an active role in providing enough exercise and diversion to prevent them from developing bad habits. They are relatively easy to care for and family-friendly. The downsides involve the size of the Bullypit, even if they can handle city life or apartment dwelling well. They make a good watchdog if just for their appearance. They actually love people, including strangers. Bullypits are easy to groom. They have a moderate tendency to be nippy but may have a higher propensity toward wanderlust, due to their history as a fighter. John D. Johnson, a returning war veteran, along with Alan Scott and several other breeders, took on the task to re-establish the breed. Their efforts resulted in several distinct bloodlines, the two best-known being the Johnson type, which had a bulkier, heavier frame and large head, and the Scott type, which was more athletic. Most modern American Bulldogs are a hybrid of these two original lines. The truth is that it is a reference to the early history of the English Bulldog, which references its history as bait for the animal in his name, bull. Their breeding reflects this unfortunate purpose. However, its early history tells a different story. He was a family dog that protected his family. They are kid-friendly, but the primary concern is their size—they can easily overwhelm a small child. They are, after all, a lot of dog! They may not realize their strength and can hurt smaller breeds seemingly unintentionally. They are more likely to injure another animal simply because of how big they are—even if there is no aggression behind the attempt. That same precaution applies to other family pets, like your cat. Instinct will drive them to run after any animal that flees them, regardless if they are part of the household. Many people view them as ferocious and dangerous animals, no matter how inappropriate the descriptor for your pet is. That can increase their risk of other chronic health conditions, such as diabetes. The best way to manage it is by providing regularly scheduled meals so that you can monitor his food consumption to match his activity levels. This hybrid is prone to obesity, so it behooves a pet owner to monitor his weight and adjust his diet accordingly. Daily walks are an excellent way to maintain his socialization skills and help him burn those extra calories. However, both parent breeds are playful, which can make it an easy task. That means a playful nature. You must approach training with a firm yet positive approach. Both parent breeds are sensitive to harsh reprimands. The Bull Terrier side of your pup has a higher degree of wanderlust and prey drive that you should also handle when he is young. Walking on sidewalks will wear them down to some degree. We recommend pre-health screenings for the hips and elbows by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. The correction of genetic defects is expensive and painful. We strongly recommend buying from reputable breeders who screen for the most common issues. Minor Conditions. Description The American Bully has a short, close, stiff to the touch and glossy coat. All colors and patterns are acceptable. The head of the American Bully is a medium length, deep through, broad skull, very pronounced cheek muscles, distinct stop, and high set ears. The ears can be cropped or uncropped. Eyes: all colors except albinism; Round to oval, low down in skull and set far apart. Muzzle: medium length, rounded on upper side or slightly squared to fall away abruptly below eyes. Jaws well defined. Under jaw to be strong and display biting power. Lips close and even, some looseness accepted, but not preferred. Upper teeth to meet tightly outside lower teeth in front or scissor bite accepted. Nose: all colors acceptable. The neck is heavy, slightly arched, tapering from shoulders to back of skull. No looseness of skin. Medium length. Shoulders are strong and muscular with blades wide and sloping. The back is fairly short. Slight sloping from withers to rump or straight accepted with gentle short slope at rump to base of tail. Slightly higher rears accepted, but not encouraged. The body has well-sprung ribs, deep in rear. All ribs close together. Forelegs set rather wide apart to permit chest development. Chest deep and broad. The tail is short in comparison to size, low set, tapering to a fine point; not curled. Not docked. Front legs should be straight. A slight turning outwards of the feet is accepted but not desired, large or round bones, pastern upright. No resemblance of bend in front. Hindquarters: well-muscled, let down at hocks, turning neither in nor out. Feet: of moderate size, well-arched and compact. Gait: should be springy with drive off the rear. Note: When someone refers to a 'blue-nose', or a 'red-nose' pit bull they are referring to the color of the dog. Temperament The American Bully is a happy, outgoing, stable and confident dog. Gentle and loving toward people. Good-natured, amusing, extremely loyal and an affectionate family pet. Almost always obedient, this dog wants nothing more than to please its master. It is an extremely courageous and intelligent guard dog that is very full of life. This breed possesses the loyalty and stability of the American Pit Bull Terrier while retaining the sociable, amiable, and outgoing temperament of the American Staffordshire Terrier. This unique breed is noted for displaying extreme tolerance with children and an overwhelming eagerness to please its family. Confident, yet not aggressive, this breed possesses a very pleasant temperament. Physically, the American Bully has an impressive, athletic build, which is both muscular and defined, and displays strength and agility. The breed is versatile and capable of accomplishing a wide variety of tasks. All around, the American Bully is a well-rounded, reliable, trustworthy and ideal family companion. The breed is very outgoing with an eagerness to please. They are known for their courage. A persistent fighter if provoked. Highly protective of his owners and the owner's property, it will fight an enemy to the death if the enemy traps the dog in a corner and threatens its loved ones. This breed has a very high tolerance for pain. Socialize very thoroughly when young to curb any dog aggressive tendencies. It has given outstanding results as a guardian of property, but is at the same time esteemed as a companion dog. This breed is not for the passive owner who does not understand that all dogs have an instinct to have a pack order. Read Top Dog. The American Bully needs an owner who is firm, but calm, confident and consistent. They need to know what is expected of them; rules to follow and limits to what they are and are not allowed to do. The objective in training and successfully keeping this dog is to achieve pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in their pack. When we humans live with dogs, we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader; lines are clearly defined. You and all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. That is the only way your relationship can be a success. Height, Weight Height: 13 - 21 inches 33 - 53 cm Weight: 70 - pounds 31 - 54 kg There are 5 categories of the American Bully—pocket, standard, extra-large XL , extreme and classic. Weight and height vary greatly and are not considered important, however correct proportion of weight to height is. Health Problems Beware: some Bully breeders give their dogs steroids to produce a large muscular body. When the drugs are stopped the dog's body shrinks back down to a normal size, but leaves the dog with many health issues including organ and joint problems. Sometimes these drugs get passed from mother to puppy. If you are in the market to adopt a Bully be sure to find a drug- free breeder. Living Conditions American Bullies will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are very active indoors and will do alright without a yard provided they get enough exercise. Prefer warm climates. Exercise American Bullies must have plenty of regular exercise including a long brisk daily pack walk to relieve mental and physical energy. Life Expectancy. Life Span Did You Know? The American Bully is a companion breed that originated in the United States in .The American Bully is similar to the American Staffordshire Terrier in that they were bred specifically for stability, loyalty, and improved physical characteristics and to diminish traits like the dog aggression or gameness their ancestors were prized for. Although the American Bully is similar in appearance to the American Staffordshire Terrier, they tend to have a sturdier and heavier bone structure. The American Bully may look intimidating, but they are a companion breed that loves their family, bonds closely with them, and is affectionate towards them. They tend to be confident dogs with a friendly nature and an energetic personality. They tend to have a gentle demeanor and get along fantastically with children. American Bullies also tend to get along well with strangers, other dogs, and other animals. Any aggression towards humans or dogs or shy or reserved behavior is not characteristic of the breed. Should these behaviors appear in an American Bully, they are generally the result of poor socialization or poor training and are not breed-related. An American Bully is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They can do well in both larger homes as well as apartments as long as they get enough exercise. They do tend to be active indoors, but will be fine without a yard to run around in as long as you can give them the activity they need. As a short-coated dog without a lot of insulation, these dogs tend to prefer warmer climates. However, as a brachycephalic snub-nosed or flat-faced dog, they are very sensitive to heat. So, you will need to be cautious and watch them carefully as the temperatures rise. When temperatures drop, they may need some help staying warm. Having the right mix of winter dog products on hand can be a big help when you have to venture out in the cold together. Because the American Bully is a social dog that thrives on attention from their family and bonds closely with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. As with any dog breed, there are some potential health concerns to be aware of. For the American Bully, these potential health issues include hip dysplasia, cleft palate, luxating patella , skin conditions, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and hypothyroidism. Reputable breeders will screen their breeding stock to avoid passing on detectable issues to puppies. You can also ask about any relevant health tests or clearances. Although the American Bully can get bored easily and can sometimes have a bulldog stubborn streak, they are a highly trainable dog that can be a good fit for first-time owners. These dogs are highly intelligent and eager to please their owners, so they tend to pick up on things quickly. Puppy training classes are still recommended as these classes often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. The American Bully has a smooth, short coat that will shed moderately year-round. You can also do a quick wipe or rubdown with a towel or chamois between baths to freshen them up or just to give their coat a nice gleam. Monthly nail trimming is usually sufficient to keep nails from growing too long. This is something many dog owners overlook, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. By practicing good dental care for dogs , you can help prevent dental diseases later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. The American Bully has a moderate activity level. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough for this stocky dog. They also love having a job to do. They may be up for more activity if you are and will love spending time with you being active. A fully-grown American Bully usually stands somewhere between inches tall and weighs pounds. Although weight and height may vary between these categories, proper proportions are extremely important. An American Bully generally lives for years. American Bully Puppies for Sale.

It is suitable for the teeth It is good for the liver. It provides adequate nutrition. It is rich in PUFAs. It is enriched with colostrum. It has a high fibre content. It contains glucosamine for maintaining bone health. It has omega fatty acids. It is easy on the gut. It is uniquely formulated for puppies. It is suitable for weight-watching. It is enriched with DHA. It is suitable for digestion. It helps muscle growth Best overall product: There are many dog food options for German Shepherds available in the market, and each of them has a unique formula and offers exciting benefits. It gives your dog a complete and balanced meal with the right amounts of protein, fats and fibre. It takes care of adequate muscle and bone growth, is easy to digest, and is good for their teeth. Best value for money: For just Rs. It is also great for their coat and keeps it shiny and soft. It promotes muscle development and is easily digestible. It has the perfect balance of vitamins and minerals. How To find the right fog food? We must give our pets proper nutrition with their food. A good diet is the best way to ensure a healthy dog. Dog foods for german shepherds must include the right quantity of proteins, fats and fibres. They should be a balanced meal to ensure good muscle growth, good gut health and a shiny coat. You must also ensure that the dog food provides adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals to make up a sound immune system. Since most dog foods come with flavour options, you can choose the ones your dog likes best and make their meals enjoyable. You may be interested in Product. Why do German Shepherd puppies need the best dog food? German Shepherd puppies need dog food designed for large breed puppies to ensure controlled joint and bone growth. This is because large-breed puppies are prone to certain health risks like hip dysplasia and other Orthopedic conditions. The best dog food for German Shepherds will ensure your puppy grows healthy, strong, energetic, and with lovely skin and coats. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds puppies German Shepherd puppies require a balanced diet that contains four types of nutrients below. These ingredients will ensure that your pup grows and develops optimally for a longer quality of life. Proteins Proteins help the puppies in building up their body tissues. Proteins can be found in chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, eggs, and dairy. Fats Fats are important for healthy skin, fur, brain, and vision. The recommended fat level per dry matter basis is 8. Fats can be found in fish oil, chicken fat, and beef fat. Digestible carbohydrates Because puppies are incredibly energetic, they need digestible carbs to provide them with energy. Digestible carbohydrates can be found in rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and whole oats. Micronutrients In addition to these key nutrients, German Shepherd puppies also need micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, DHA, and omega-3, and vitamin A. They also need fiber to promote digestion and bowel movement and clean water to help with bodily functions. For large dog breed only: Foods specially formulated for German Shepherd puppies: Veterinarian and pet advisor Dr. Choose a dog food that is specially formulated for German Shepherds puppies or large breed puppies can ensure your pups are getting the nutritional requirements at every stage of their growth. The opposite side is giving your pup the wrong food that may lead to serious growth and digestive problems. Things to consider before choosing dog food for German Shepherds puppies 1. Their growth Puppies may need different nutrients at different stages depending on their growth rate. For instance, a puppy in the weaning stage between three to four weeks will need more antioxidants which are found in foods containing Vitamin C and E. In contrast, a teething puppy will need wet dog food which is easily digestible food on its tummy to minimize intestinal upset. For instance, a younger puppy may have difficulty eating larger food pieces than an older puppy. Teething If your dog is teething, which starts at around three weeks, you may want to consider food that contains calcium like dairy and bone broth for strong and healthy teeth. On the other hand, if the dog has teething problems, wet food may be a better option than dry food until they recover. Alternatively, you add wet canned food to their kibble to make it soft and palatable. The body weight An underweight puppy has different dietary requirements from an overweight puppy. You do not want to underfeed or overfeed your puppy. Activity Level Puppies that are extremely active require foods high in carbohydrates to keep up their energy levels. If your dog is not as active, you want to keep the carbs down to avoid obesity. With all the many dry foods out on the market, it can be hard to choose the healthiest for your pups. Step 1. The Association of American Feed Control Officials developed nutrient profiles to establish minimum and some maximum nutrient concentrations for dogs and cats. These profiles are updated when new findings from research in pet nutrition become available. They provide practical guidance for pet food manufacturers. Adult Maintenance: Dog foods formulated for adult maintenance have the nutrients adult dogs need. Dogs over the age of one are considered adults, except for some large and giant breeds who do not fully mature until age two. You may see variations of these nutrient profiles on dog food packaging. Step 2. Read the food label The label is the most important thing you should check when deciding which puppy food to pick. Here are the 3 things you would like to read on the packaging: a. List of ingredients The list of ingredients should have the main ingredient as the first ingredient then followed by the rest according to their percentage. For instance, in the label below the first five ingredients, are chicken as the main ingredient, ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, corn gluten meal and dried plain beet pulp. Feeding guidelines This will show you how much food and how many times you should feed your puppy. Watch this video if you want to better understand the wording on a dog food packaging means: Step 3. Are there any claims of pups reacting to the food? Do the users recommend or warn against the food? Of course, you want to go with what the majority of the reviewers say. You can also check dogadvisor. Step 4. The vet is in a better place to advise on what type of food to go for or what ingredients to avoid. Best dry foods for German Shepherds Puppies There are hundreds of dog foods out there with fancy names and ingredients, which make it so hard for dog owners to find the right food for their pups. To help you narrow down your search, we asked a couple of vets to suggest the best dog food for German Shepherds puppies. Purina Pro Plan — For sensitive skin and allergies Why do we like it? This dog food is ideal for all large breed puppies weighing over 50 pounds, GSD included. It is specially formulated for puppies with sensitive skin and stomachs. It is made with real chicken, among other high-quality ingredients. This dry food has optimal calcium levels to promote proper joint and bone growth. It helps prevent forms of hip dysplasia. Ideal for German Shepherd puppies of all ages. Delicious dry food for large breed puppies like GSD. It is specially formulated for superior vision and healthy brain development. This is an all-natural dog food specially made for large-breed puppies of all ages. It is made with real, wholesome ingredients. Making the right food choice will ensure that your puppy grows healthier, stronger, and more energetic. Weaning for a GSD puppy should start at around 6 to 8 weeks while still maintaining nursing. Complete weaning should be from 8 weeks when the puppy is fed on puppy food only. How is puppy food different from adult dog food? Puppy food contains more protein and fats, and certain minerals than adult dog food to support their growing brain, vision, nervous system, immune system, bones, and joints. When should German Shepherd puppies transition to adult dog food? German Shepherd puppies should transition to adult dog food from 12 to 24 months. The transition should be gradual, and the puppy should be constantly monitored. More posts on feeding your German Shepherds Must read:. The main downside is that while Royal Canin is the most expensive kibble on our list, it also contains several grains and byproduct ingredients. We were hoping that the price meant higher quality ingredients, but Royal Canin seems to have abandoned whole foods for vitamin and mineral additives. Pros Designed specifically for German Shepherd puppies Smaller-sized kibbles for puppy teeth Protein blend to support digestion Balanced minerals for healthy bone growth Vitamin and antioxidant blend to support young immune systems Cons Some grains and byproduct ingredients 5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Food Check Price on Amazon Blue Buffalo is a well-respected brand of dog food, and their reputation for quality is due in large part to their commitment to whole food ingredients. We love how much of the vitamins and minerals provided by this kibble come from whole foods like chicken, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Blue Buffalo does not go the quick and easy route of adding these nutrients later in the process, unlike other brands, and the finished product speaks for itself. However, German Shepherd puppies have notoriously finicky digestive systems. While being grain-free is helpful in that respect, this blend does not contain any other special formulations to support a healthy GI tract. It is extremely healthy, but also on the expensive side — so you may gamble and lose if your puppy has trouble digesting this kibble. Pros Designed for large breed puppies The first ingredient is deboned chicken Grain-free, no byproduct ingredients Vitamins and minerals are mainly provided by whole foods and complete proteins Support for bone growth, immune system, joints, and cognitive functioning Cons No modification to support a sensitive digestion 6. This chicken and brown rice puppy blend contains no byproduct ingredients, multiple lean animal proteins, and only the highest quality grains. However, this food is moderately expensive and does not specifically cater to dogs with sensitive digestive systems. Better to try a grain-free brand first and keep this option as a backup. The ingredients are all high quality, but the variety of foods in this blend leaves something to be desired. Considering that it is made almost entirely from protein, grains, and beans this brand is rather expensive. There are no whole vegetables or fruits, so many of the vitamins and minerals are provided by additives. Added vitamins are not only harder to absorb than those from whole foods, but cheaper. What gives? Most importantly, the beans may be hard for a German Shepherd puppy to digest and lead to a variety of gastrointestinal upset. While the lamb could be a nice change for your pup, we recommend testing this kibble out in small amounts to gauge suitability for your dog. Pros Designed for large breed puppies The first ingredient is deboned lamb, second is chicken meal Only high-quality, whole grains Whole foods supply joint support Cons Few whole fruits and vegetables Contains beans and peas which may upset digestion 8. But upon closer consideration, you will see why this food is not a great choice for German Shepherd puppies. Though it has good proteins, this is another brand that gets almost none of its nutrients from whole fruits or vegetables. Pros Designed for large breed puppies First ingredient is chicken meal No artificial colors or preservatives Balanced minerals to support bone growth Cons The second, third, and fourth ingredients are all grain Very few whole fruits and vegetables 9. Eukanuba Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food Check Price on Amazon The Eukanuba Large Breed puppy food is another excellent example of a food that, while technically complete and balanced, does not have the healthful ingredients to make all those nutrients available to your dog. Besides a few good foods like chicken, fish oil, and chicken meal, this kibble is chock full of cheap grains and byproducts. It contains no whole fruits or vegetables, and most of the vitamins and minerals are additives. German Shepherd puppy bellies are particularly sensitive to poor quality ingredients and additives. And though they advertise a special, easy-to-digest prebiotic blend on the package, there is no evidence anywhere else to substantiate this claim. This is a question that many German Shepherd owners ask, as they want to make sure their beloved furry friend is getting all the nutrients they need. The good news is that there are plenty of healthy dog food options out there for German Shepherds. You should eat foods that include high-quality animal-based protein sources like lamb, beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes. In addition, the meal should be plentiful in fats, vitamins, and minerals. Are eggs good for German Shepherds? Yes, eggs are a great source of protein for German Shepherds. In fact, they are one of the healthiest foods you can feed your dog. Eggs are packed with nutrients that are essential for a German Shepherd's diet, including vitamins A, D, and E. They also contain omega-three fatty acids, which are important for a dog's coat and skin health. What is the best food for German Shepherds with allergies? If your German Shepherd has allergies, it's important to find a hypoallergenic best dog food for German Shepherds that will not trigger their symptoms. There are many brands of hypoallergenic dog food on the market that use alternative protein sources, such as duck or venison. These foods are often grain-free as well, which is ideal for German Shepherds with allergies. What is the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs? If your German Shepherd has a sensitive stomach, you'll want to find a dog food that is easy on their digestive system. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These foods often have limited ingredient lists and use easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or potato. What is the best food for German Shepherds with joint problems? If your German Shepherd has joint problems, you'll want to find a dog food that is rich in omega-three fatty acids. These essential nutrients help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with joint problems. These foods often contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to help relieve joint pain. Now let's chat in more detail about the best dog foods for your furry friend. It is made with all natural ingredients and has no fillers or preservatives. The kibble is also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for dogs' skin and coat health. The addition of zinc proteinate and other chelated minerals to the formula is a plus, as it leads to better absorption and nutrition. We also note the inclusion of various probiotics for better digestion and salmon oil, which is beneficial to both skin and coat. Highly suggested! All of their recipes are made with whole ingredients and cooked in small batches. The meals are portioned according to your dog's weight and activity level. Wilderness is a grain-free and protein-rich product with over a dozen options and recipes, which makes it ideal for people who want to rotate their diets. It's reasonably priced, and it gets high marks from consumers. Probiotics, high-quality fiber, and digestive enzymes are included in this formula to aid your dog's digestive health. These components create mouth-watering, healthy food that will sustain your canine companion throughout the day. The foods in this recipe include multiple probiotics for improved digestion, chelated minerals for maximized absorption, and nutrient-dense food. It's inexpensive to buy as well as simple to suggest. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food Image courtesy Eagle Pack The majority of the animal protein in Adult takes the form of fresh chicken and pork meal, as confirmed by the nutritional label. The all-time classic, fully grain-inclusive design that is free of legume concentrates. Antioxidant preservatives are used in a safe and natural manner. There's no BHT or ethoxyquin. It has high animal protein levels, as well as vitamins and minerals that have been boosted through the use of freeze-dried raw pieces. It's designed to unleash your dog's potential to thrive and put the advantages of raw nutrition into every bowl, using cage-free duck as the first ingredient for powerful, lean muscles. It also contains a probiotic boost for digestive health, greater amounts of omegas for healthy skin and coat, and more antioxidants for immune health—all from the highest-quality ingredients from all over the world. This high-protein, low-carb diet is designed for sporting dogs and plush animals with rigorous exercise requirements. It's also perfect for growing pups and pregnant or nursing females. This formula has DHA to support cognitive development, as well as calcium for strong bones and teeth. Iams ProActive Health also has 22 essential vitamins and minerals to keep your puppy healthy and strong. It's nice to discover a Southwest Canyon recipe that includes natural preservatives, which implies the food does not contain any BHA, BHT, or other harmful chemicals. A major brand and a healthy all-age option for any German Shepherd. Champion Petfoods, the well-known maker of Orijen, has long promoted a meat-based "biologically appropriate" diet. This is a tried and true design that makes this particular dish an excellent choice for developing Shepherd pups. This natural dry food is developed to give complete-body nutritional support for puppies of all sizes. It's made with high-quality proteins and whole grains, all of which are complemented by omega fatty acids—such as DHA—necessary vitamins, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics. This balanced, nutritious dry dog food is intended to promote teeth and bone strength, healthy brain growth, general health, energy and vitality, optimal nutrient absorption, and healthy muscle development. It's free of GMOs, by-products from processing animals into pet food ingredients meat meal , fillers, or artificial preservatives to ensure that your dog gets the healthiest food possible. This is a tried-and-true approach that has been developed and studied for decades. It includes controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios, making it ideal for German Shepherd puppies. This large-breed dry food is made with high-quality proteins and whole grains. It's free of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives. This recipe is designed to support the health of large breed puppies with an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. It also includes DHA from fish oil for healthy brain development. This recipe includes DHA for brain development, calcium and phosphorus for bone growth, and antioxidants to support the immune system. It's also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. You can feed your dog either dry or wet food, and he may sample two distinct flavor profiles: rice and oatmeal for salmon. Because it contains no allergens like wheat, corn, or soy, there's less of a chance that your dog will suffer an upset stomach. It also includes omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which help to promote skin, coat, and joint health. Image courtesy Blue Buffalo If you're searching for high-quality, all-natural wet dog food, Blue Buffalo Wilderness is a wonderful alternative. This dog food is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for an entourage diet. It's made with real beef and chicken, can be served as a delicious treat, or blended into your dog's regular dry food. The Blue Buffalo puppy food contains no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives; making it a healthy choice for your dog. All dishes are prepared in collaboration with veterinarians and come in a variety of delicious flavors, including beef, lamb, and turkey. All of the meats are imported from the United States, although only lamb comes from Australia. It's also gluten-free, so if you're allergic to grains, you'll be safe. There is a large selection of carbohydrates, which are mostly in the form of potatoes, and there are numerous healthy vegetables and superfoods including lentils, peas, salmon oil, and flaxseed. It's made with real meat, vegetables, and fruit. This recipe is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's also high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It's made with real beef, vegetables, and fruit. It also contains sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, and flaxseed. This formula provides your German Shepherd puppy with the high protein diet they need for proper development and growth. Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular brands among dog food reviewers. It's included as our last on this list but has ranked high among some of the best dog foods for German Shepherds because it's high in protein and free of grains. What foods are German Shepherds allergic to? German Shepherds are known to be allergic to a variety of things, including wheat, corn, soy, and even some meats. If you're not sure what your German Shepherd is allergic to, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to recommend the best food for your dog based on their specific allergies. If your German Shepherd is having any sort of adverse reaction to their food, such as scratching, biting, or licking themselves excessively, then they may be allergic to something in their food. Consult with your veterinarian if you're not sure what's causing the reaction. What is the best dog food for German Shephard puppies? Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so it's important to find a food that's specifically designed for puppies. Look for a food that has high levels of protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Puppies also need more calories than adult dogs, so make sure the food you choose has a high calorie content. As your puppy grows, they will need less calories and protein, so you'll need to switch to a food that's designed for adult dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your German Shepherd puppy. What is the best food for an adult German Shepherd? The best food for an adult German Shepherd is a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed of dog is known for its high energy levels and need for exercise, so a food that can help them maintain their energy levels is important. A diet that is too low in calories can cause your German Shepherd to become overweight or obese, which can lead to health problems. When choosing a food for your German Shepherd, it is important to read the label carefully and choose a food that is right for their age, weight, and activity level. Can a German Shepherd drink milk? Yes, German Shepherds can drink milk. Milk is a good source of calcium and other nutrients that are important for this breed of dog. However, it is important to choose a low-fat or skim milk to avoid adding unnecessary calories to their diet. What is the best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy? The best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy is to start them on a diet that is high in protein and fat. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, so it is important to choose a food that will give them the nutrition they need without making them overweight. As your German Shepherd puppy grows, you can slowly transition them to an adult dog food. It is important to make sure that they are getting the right amount of calories and nutrients for their age, weight, and activity level. What are some common health problems German Shepherds face? Some common health problems German Shepherds face include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. This breed of dog is also susceptible to obesity, so it is important to choose a food that will help them maintain a healthy weight. German Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, so a food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is important for this breed of dog. What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd? The life expectancy of a German Shepherd is between nine and thirteen years. This breed of dog is known for being a healthy and hardy breed, but there are some health problems that can shorten their lifespan. It is important to feed your German Shepherd a diet that will help them maintain their health and keep them at a healthy weight to help ensure a long and happy life. Is it OK to put a raw egg in dog food? The answer is complicated. While some experts believe that raw eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, others believe that they can be dangerous. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. If you decide to feed your dog raw eggs, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the eggs are fresh. Second, only feed your dog eggs that have been properly refrigerated. Finally, don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs. If you're still not sure whether or not to feed your dog raw eggs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you make the best decision for your pet. What are the benefits of raw eggs for dogs? There are a few potential benefits of feeding raw eggs to dogs. Some people believe that raw eggs can help increase a dog's energy levels, improve their coat, and even help with joint pain. While there is some anecdotal evidence to support these claims, there is no scientific evidence that raw eggs offer any health benefits for dogs. Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Dog Food Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet's health and well-being. With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your furry friend. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision, we have established a set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and the specific nutritional needs of dogs. Ingredients Quality: High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish, to support your dog's muscle development and overall health. Whole Grains and Vegetables: Whole grains and vegetables should be included to provide essential carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Absence of Fillers and Artificial Additives: No Fillers: The best dog food should not contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which offer limited nutritional value and may cause allergies. No Artificial Additives: It should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can harm your dog's health over time. Meat Meal vs. Whole Meat: Preference for Whole Meat: Whole meat sources are preferred over meat meals or by-products, as they are less processed and retain more nutritional value. Digestibility and Allergen Consideration: Hypoallergenic Options: For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens like poultry or grains should be available. High Digestibility: The dog food should be highly digestible to ensure your pet absorbs the maximum nutrients from each meal. Life Stage Appropriateness: Age and Size-Specific Formulations: The best dog food should offer formulations tailored to your dog's life stage puppy, adult, senior and size small, medium, large. Transparency and Sourcing: Transparent Labeling: Brands should provide transparent information about ingredient sourcing and processing methods. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: A commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients reflects a brand's responsibility toward animal welfare and the environment. Health Benefits and Special Considerations: Support for Special Health Needs: The best dog food may offer formulations to address specific health concerns, such as joint health, dental care, or weight management. Customer Feedback and Reviews: Positive User Experiences: Customer feedback and reviews are valuable indicators of a product's performance, safety, and palatability. Price and Value: Affordability: The cost of the dog food should be reasonable and commensurate with its quality and ingredients, offering good value for pet owners. Recall History and Safety: Safety Record: Brands with a history of recalls or safety issues should be viewed with caution, as the safety of your pet is paramount. But with our list of the 25 best dog foods for German Shepherds in , you can rest assured that you're giving your furry friend the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. When choosing dog food, consider factors such as your dog's age, size, activity level, any allergies or sensitivities, and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. What is the difference between dry and wet dog food? Dry dog food kibble is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Wet dog food contains more moisture and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Some owners choose to feed a combination for variety. Is homemade dog food a good option? Homemade dog food can be an option but requires careful research and balance to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. How can I tell if a dog food is of high quality? Look for high-quality protein sources, whole grains and vegetables, minimal fillers and additives, and adherence to AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Checking customer reviews and consulting experts can also help. Should I choose a dog food based on my dog's breed? While some breed-specific formulas exist, it's more important to consider your dog's individual needs, age, and size when selecting dog food. What should I do if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities? If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consult your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods. Is grain-free dog food a better choice? Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily better. While some dogs may benefit from grain-free options, it's essential to ensure the food still provides balanced nutrition, as some grain-free diets have been associated with certain health issues. How often should I feed my dog, and in what portion sizes? Feeding frequency and portion sizes depend on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent meals. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust based on your dog's needs. Can I mix different brands or types of dog food? Mixing different brands or types of dog food can be done, but it should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best way to transition your dog to a new diet. Should I be concerned about recalls when choosing dog food? Yes, it's important to stay informed about recalls. Check the FDA and manufacturer websites regularly for recall information. Brands with a history of recalls may be worth avoiding. What is the role of my veterinarian in selecting dog food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food based on your pet's specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. How can I ensure my dog stays hydrated when feeding dry dog food? Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Wetting the dry food or incorporating wet food into the diet can also increase moisture intake. Can I give my dog human food as part of their diet? While some human foods are safe for dogs, it's essential to know which ones are and to avoid potentially toxic foods. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding human food to your dog's diet. Remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and open communication about your dog's diet are key to ensuring their health and well-being. Related Content. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.

We offer English bulldogs in standard , rare and exotic colors. I am located near Vancouver, British Columbia , Canada. My goal is to maintain a very high standard by producing top quality Rottweilers and English Bulldogs, some which are Imported from countries such as Germany, Hungary and the United States. I strive for correct confirmation, excellent temperament, good bone substance, extraordinary heads and keeping the breed true to it's correct type. C Rottweilers and English bulldogs for over 35 years. As well we serve Vancouver Island and northern B. John to name a few. Other areas we have shipped our superior Rottweiler and English bulldog puppies is all over Canada , provinces and or cities such as Alberta , Calgary, Edmonton , Saskatchewan , Manitoba , and Winnipeg to name a few. We look forward to doing business with you regardless of where you live. We ship our C. Flight nanny service is also available if needed. Thank you for your interest in my quality Rottweilers and English Bulldogs. Feel free to view my web site. We have a number of Bulldogs, both English as they are recognized by most and French Bulldogs. They all live as pets in both their home and in show homes with friends. Geoff values this breed and understands the unique challenges that come with breeding Bulldogs and Frenchies. Prior to raising and breeding bulldogs, Geoff and his wife raised and bred Boxers. Geoff has always been fascinated with the Bulldog breed and has a strong desire to see the breed excel in health, temperament, and confirmation. The owners of Topbrass, Mark and Dawn Berryman, have been breeding Bulldogs for many years and Geoff had been looking for over two years for the right Bulldog from a reputable breeder. Priscilla was a surprise to Miranda; however, the cuteness of a Bulldog Puppy will always win skeptics over. 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Pet home.Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.She had her first set shots and deworming done. One is green and the other is blue.This beautiful art is printed using the highest quality fade resistant ink on canvas. Every one of Design Art fine art giclee canvas prints is printed on premium quality cotton canvas using the finest quality inks which will not fade over time. Born Oct 3 .Manny is dog aggressive. So no other dogs please. And has hi pray drive. So no other pets. He is also a large dog.Great with kids. Age appropriate shots microchipped dewormed and a little puppy package. First 4 pics are the mother, following pics are the father. We are breeder preservationist of the Original Heritage Standard Bulldogs. Pet or.She is a 1. She is an absolute sweetheart. She has no concept of personal space lol. She was.Showing 1 - 20 of 20 resultsPage 1 - 20 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. With health and.Last adorable olde english bulldog x boxer puppy Male left and ready to go to his new home. Mom is a purebred Olde English bulldog and.They will have their shots August 28 and will be ready for their new couches. Family raised around kids, their parents, and a reluctant cat. One of their other names, the Shichon Teddy Bear refers to their.Accepting deposits now. Both parents are CKC registered, health tested and available on site. Pet home.Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.She had her first set shots and deworming done. One is green and the other is blue.Born Oct 3 .Manny is dog aggressive. So no other dogs please. And has hi pray drive. So no other pets. He is also a large dog.Great with kids. Age appropriate shots microchipped dewormed and a little puppy package. 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Select Location.Training Concerns When booking an appointment online, you are agreeing to receive text messages from us. Message rates may apply. You can reply STOP to any text messages to opt-out. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and loyal. With proper training and socialization, they are also obedient and great with other dogs and children. Dog Training Elite has years of experience with German Shepherd training and has developed obedience and personal protection training programs suitable for this breed. Because of their intelligence and natural herding instincts, German Shepherds can also be trained as service dogs. Like any intelligent dog, however, a German Shepherd without proper training can become a handful. Their intelligence can lead to stubbornness. Extensive training and socialization are key to harnessing the unique abilities of this breed and diminishing any potential destructive behaviors. Thankfully, the high intelligence of German Shepherds enables them to learn commands quickly. The professional training of Dog Training Elite will help any German Shepherd become an incredible companion to individuals and families. Adults Dog Training Elite recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training. Dog Training Elite has adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite offers both puppy and adult dog group classes. Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter. Empowering Owners We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times. Personalized We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis. Environment Specific We train wherever issues tend to arise i. Supportive We support owners in the off-hours when training is "not in session". Involved We work with all members of the household. Satisfaction Ratings Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental and physical stimulation they need. Dog Training Elite has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. Read on to learn more about the Dog Training Elite training method. The Dog Training Elite Difference Dog Training Elite uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out. The Dog Training Elite training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Ready to turn your dog into a loyal and loving companion? Find a German Shepherd trainer near you today! Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call! Got the Whole Den package and am very satisfied with the level of professionalism that everyone had. They gave wonderful suggestions and presented things I a way I could understand. Will use them going forward for all trainings on our little one. This place is amazing. I did the two-week training camp for my 8 month old puppy and I couldn't be happier with the results. The entire experience was perfect from start to finish. The training staff is incredible. They answered all my questions and took extra time and care in helping my dog be successful. Special thanks to Jake and McCall, who worked with my dog every day. You can tell they love their jobs! Thanks again DTE!!! Brock has made the most amazing changes in just a week! Jake is incredible and patient with my pup. I am so impressed with everything at DTE! Gosia is amazing and was very thorough about training our baby Leia. We seriously recommended their services. Training goes a long way when it comes to ordinary circumstances and we are glad that we decided to get Leia on board with their Gold program. We are so grateful about having all the support from Dog Elite to get Leia where she is now. Jessica was also very quick to communicate throughout the whole program. Kudos to their excellent customer service. My wife and I were sort of nervous to spend this much money on dog training we spent almost all of the money we have saved but after seeing the results, we are so happy that we did. My daughter's "Service Dog in Training" couldn't ask for a better Trainer. Terrance answers all my questions but also takes the time to show my daughter how to implement at home what the dog has learned. The trainers are excellent as well as friendly and communicative to pet parents. They are available for parents ant time you need them So glad we entered our dog in their training program. Try them. Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack. Do dog trainers offer remote or virtual services? Although dog training is traditionally performed in person, the COVID pandemic may have caused some professional dog trainers to move to remote training and virtual services. You can contact dog trainers near you to ask about the possibility of remote or virtual services. Also, ask whether all aspects of the process can be digital, including payment. How old should a puppy be for training? If you get a new puppy, start from the beginning with professional training to give both you and your puppy the tools you need for a healthy relationship. Dog training is as much about teaching the owner how to interact with their new dog as it is about the dog learning to behave. Puppy training can start as early as eight weeks old. Trainers who offer puppy training programs may works specifically with dogs between the ages of 8 and 18 weeks old. Trainers can teach owners about potty training and how to deal with accidents, working with separation anxiety, and training your pooch out of destructive behaviors like chewing, biting and demand barking. Puppies will start to learn to walk on-leash and other basic skills. In addition to behavior training, socializing your puppy is an important part of dog training. Socializing your dog means they become comfortable and confident in a variety of settings and have a great foundation for becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. After your puppy has had the proper vaccinations, you can start to introduce it to a variety of different dogs and people in safe settings. What is a dog boot camp? A dog boot camp is basically a board and train program that focuses on training your dog or puppy. The trainers will work with your dog to curb unwanted behavior, teach them basic skills and show them how to walk on a leash. How long does it take to train a puppy? Dog training depends on the dog and how much homework the dog owner is willing to put in. Puppy training is similar to dog training in that the onus of the work depends on the owner learning new ways to interact with their dog. For a quick crash course, you can opt for a single, two hour smart-start puppy training consultation to teach you the ins and outs of being a new dog parent. You can learn how to manage potty training and what to do if the puppy experiences separation anxiety. Puppies usually need to be at least three months old for group training classes. If you want more intensive one-on-one work, you can opt for private lessons. Some behavior problems can be resolved in one session if the dog owner learns and can implement new skills. In the case of more serious issues, 3 to 10 private sessions can typically correct challenges. Which dog training method is best? The best type of dog training for both you and your dog depends on the outcomes you hope to achieve. If you want your dog to learn agility training, go to someone who specializes in those techniques. Regardless of whether you want your dog to learn basic behavior or competitive-level tricks, the majority of dog training is actually about training the owner how to communicate with their dog. Most professional dog trainers agree that a model of training based on positive reinforcement breeds a happy, healthy, well-adjusted dog. The alternative to positive reinforcement training is using force or aggression techniques like physical punishment or shock-collar training to get the dog to do or not do a behavior. While the dog may learn how to behave as you direct, it is also learning to communicate with force and aggression, and will in turn use those behaviors on other dogs or people that are smaller or weaker than it is. Before signing up with a dog trainer, meet with the trainer and ask for references. Watch the trainer interact with your dog, and make sure they treat your dog with patience and firm kindness. Ask them questions about their training methods: What type of training methods do you use? What is your background and training, and how did you become a dog trainer? Why hire professionals on Thumbtack? Free to use You never pay to use Thumbtack: Get cost estimates, contact pros, and even book the job—all for no cost. Get started. Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Denver location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Dog Training Elite Denver recommends starting dog training as early as possible, soon after a puppy is ready to leave its mother. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd puppies do great with early training. Dog Training Elite Denver has adult dog training programs as well. A complete puppy training typically takes a few months. Adult dog training can take longer or shorter, depending on whether a dog needs to unlearn bad habits in addition to being trained. Working with a German Shepherd and the owner directly in the home allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual dogs, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a dog has completed in-home training, they can take group classes for more in-depth training - Dog Training Elite Denver offers both puppy and adult dog group classes. Beginning training in the home also helps owners bond with their dogs so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter. Empowering Owners We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times. Personalized We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis. Environment Specific We train wherever issues tend to arise i. Supportive We support owners in the off-hours when training is "not in session". Involved We work with all members of the household. Satisfaction Ratings Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors. Also, be consistent about rules - establish at the beginning, for example, whether or not your dog is allowed on the couch. An energetic dog with little to no exercise can become a destructive, disobedient dog. Training is a great way to give German Shepherds the mental and physical stimulation they need. Dog Training Elite Denver has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. Read on to learn more about the Dog Training Elite Denver training method. All Sizes. All Ages. Revolution K9 — Top Notch Dog Training in Cheyenne, Wyoming We love our dogs— as our best friends, family members, guardians, and all around solid companions. At Revolution K9, we believe that every dog has a unique canine personality that creates a just as unique bond with their person or family. We offer highly ethical, results-driven dog training in Cheyenne, Wyoming with integrity and devotion, servicing the Surrounding Area. Utilizing reward-based, empathy-inspired and scientifically proven training methods we help you establish everlasting success! Ready to start improving life with your dog? Step One is scheduling a Consultation to first evaluate your dog, consult with you about training options and recommendations, and provide immediate relief for pressing dog problems or goals. Is your dog driving you crazy? Not coming when called? Shredding and destroying? Chasing the chickens? We can help you fix all of those things! See About Trainer Victoria for more information! Canicross, Bikejoring, Dryland Mushing A wildly fun, casual or competitive team activity for the whole family! Lessons are taught in-home, in-facility or off-site as needed. Day Training is a flexible option tailored to your schedule with a lesson for you to maintain what your pup is learning. Located west of Cheyenne, with acres of public land privately accessed from our property. Your pup experiences a safe, fun and relaxing education stay-cation! Canine Enrichment provides your homebody buddy with exciting adventures, friends, and hardcore Dog Mom-level love and care. Examples can include hiking, safe swimming, public shopping trips pick your own toy and treats!

Search Close this search box. It's always tempting to pick up your cuddly Frenchie and most of the time, they don't mind it. But since they have fragile bodies, you should know how to pick them up the right way. Table of Contents Does your Frenchie love to cuddle? Chances are, they do. And for you to do this, sometimes you need to lift them. But there are many carrying habits you need to unlearn. Carrying Frenchies by the scruff, for example, is bad for them. Many of these habits cause them a lot of pain. How to Pick Up a French Bulldog It may be tempting to pick up your Frenchie whenever you want since they are very cuddly. But there are dangers to carrying them the wrong way. To make sure you are not hurting them, here is how you should pick them up. This way, they will not squirm around and risk hurting themselves. Doing this often will also help them learn what the verbal cue means. So next time, they get to prepare themselves before you pick them up. Your hand should be between his front legs and on his chest. With your free hand, scoop your Frenchie underneath again. This time, you should lift their hind legs. Make sure you tuck your arm under their legs and rear end. After that, you can slowly lift them. Stay calm during the whole process since they tend to mirror your mood. Your Frenchie will get used to this the more you pick them up. As long as you make this a positive experience for them, this should be a breeze! The method above is great for lighter dogs who are 25 lbs 11 kg and below. Some Frenchies are heavier than this and there is another way you can carry them. Secure Their Arms Using both your arms, grab their forelegs and hind legs from their front and back. This will look like you are hugging them from the side. Then with your hand, clutch the legs that are facing away from you to secure your Frenchie. Hold Them Close This method does not feel very secure, so you need to keep your Frenchie close to your chest. If they are wriggling in this position, they may not like this. So you need to put them down before they break free and fall. Lift Them Up If your Frenchie stays calm, you can lift them gently. Not all Frenchies will like this method because it does not feel the best. So if your Frenchie is one of these, you may need to go back to the first method. Since puppies are lighter, another method works best for them. First, verbally let your Frenchie know that you are going to pick them up. Now, try to put your Frenchie pup into a carrying position. Use your dominant hand to go under them, placing it on their chest and between their front legs. Do the same with your other hand, but grab their hind legs this time. After this, you can lift your Frenchie puppy. Use your arm as a shelf that they can sit on. And hold them near your chest to secure them. Holding them close is crucial since they might fight their way out and accidentally fall. Frenchies are fragile, even more so when they are puppies. So a fall from this height could injure their paws. Using these will help you to stabilize their spines so that they will not get hurt. Carrying them by hand alone will not give them much support. Lifting a dog with back problems has a lot of things to consider. Sometimes, they will not let you get near them because they are in pain. So if your Frenchie has back problems , below is how you can make lifting them easier. Getting Ready Approach your Frenchie from the side with a calm voice to comfort them. Do not go near their mouth as they may try to bite you. Unfortunately, sometimes they do not understand that you are trying to help them. If your Frenchie is a bit aggressive due to the pain, you can use a muzzle to avoid nipping. Be sure to have their first aid kid ready in case this all goes south. This can be anything as long as it is big enough for its size. An ironing board, a cutting board, or whatever flat-surfaced item you may have at home. Place a few long strips of cloth under the board. Or you can also use a rope that is not very abrasive. Do not place the cloth or rope on the area of the board where their head will lie. Make sure your Frenchie is lying down on their side first. Then take them by placing one hand under their chest and another hand under his behind. Gently lift them and transfer them onto the board. Using the strips of cloth or rope, tie your Frenchie to the board. Make sure it is firm enough so they do not shuffle around. But it should not be tight enough to cause any discomfort. Now you can take your Frenchie to your car and go to the vet. Lay the blanket down on a flat surface first. With your Frenchie lying down on their side, put your hand underneath their chest. With your other hand, place it underneath their behind. Then lift them with care onto the blanket. Lift the blanket by grabbing the longer ends. This should be the ends by their head and their hind. Your Frenchie will look like they are on a hammock. But that is one of the many incorrect ways to carry them. Carrying them the wrong way is not only painful, but it can also cause your Frenchie injuries. So to prevent these from happening, here is how you should not handle your Frenchie. Not by the Collar Collars on Frenchies are not good in the first place. If you are walking your Frenchie on a collar and they tug on it a lot, it hurts their neck. You are doing the same thing by grabbing them by the collar. Remember that Frenchies have sensitive spines and necks. Any significant pressure that is constantly put on these can lead to IVDD. Not by the Legs Some dog owners like to grab their dogs by the leg. But never do this to your Frenchie. Not only is it very painful, but it can also damage their bone joints or disfigure them. Not by the Tail Frenchies may not have the height, but they may have the weight. Picking them up by their small tail is never a good thing. Doing this will put them in so much pain and can lead to serious issues. Not by the Scruff Holding puppies by the scruff is a common thing many people do. But this is a bad way of picking up Frenchies, no matter what their age is. This is another painful and irresponsible way of picking them up. Not only that, there is a risk of them slipping from your hand. If they fall, this can lead to injuring different parts of their body. Picking up your Frenchie is not bad as long as you do it properly. They may even love it since they are a very cuddly and affectionate breed. But part of loving your Frenchie back is to make sure that you are not causing them pain. So when picking them up, always remember that you should support their spine and neck. And never handle them by the collar, legs, tail, and scruff. If you do it the wrong way, it can lead to many serious issues. Dislocations, choking, injuries, and even IVDD. So while it is tempting to pick them up in a silly way, have their best interest always in mind. When your Frenchie yelps when you carry them, it is because they are either excited or are in pain. Unfortunately, most of the time it is the latter. The fact that you are reading this means that you are a responsible Frenchie owner. And being one means that you have to figure out what is causing their yelping. To give you a headstart, below are reasons why they yelp when picked up. They Are Showing Excitement Frenchies are one of the cuddliest dog breeds out there. They love it when they get your attention , and sometimes, they get too excited. So when you pick them up, they may yelp in joy. But it is crucial that you know when they are happy or are in pain. Cuddle away! They Got Scared If you have a Frenchie puppy, this is the more likely reason for their yelping. They are not used to getting picked up yet, so they will react in fear. That is why you need to have a verbal cue before picking them up. To lessen their agitation, make sure to approach them from their side so that they see you coming. Puppies will learn not to fear this after a while. In the meantime, practice picking them up and make these sessions short. An incorrect method can cause them great pain. This includes picking them up by the nail, scruff, legs, and collar. They Have Cramps With overexertion, your Frenchie can get muscle spasms and cramps. The good news is that this is temporary. Until then, your Frenchie will not enjoy getting lifted. This can make their backs and necks hurt, which makes it hard to pick them up. Anything from a slipped disc, ruptured disc, or a pinched nerve is an issue with their spine. If you suspect that your Frenchie has this, watch out for the following: Reluctance to Jump Their Head Hangs Low Slow Movements The best way to resolve this is to take your Frenchie to the vet as soon as possible. They Have an Infection Any skin infection or unusual growths is painful to the touch. If these are in areas where you touch your Frenchie when picking them up, they may yelp out of pain. They Have Musculoskeletal Problems If your Frenchie is older, their joints may weaken as a result of the aging process. Arthritis makes them sensitive to any movement, even when you pick them up. Frenchies can also develop certain health issues. They have a genetic predisposition to many health issues. Especially ones related to their skeleton. This includes hip dysplasia, a condition where the socket and ball of the joint do not align right. This is a painful health issue that hurts their quality of life. This condition occurs when their intervertebral disc ruptures, bulges, or slips. IVDD can cause mild to severe pain, and in extreme cases, paralysis. For a standard-sized adult Frenchie, a medium crate is ideal for them. Their crate should be 30 inches in length, 19 inches in width, and 21 inches in height mm x mm x mm. You will know that their crate is too small if their hind and nose touch the ends of the crate at the same time. Their crate should be big enough for them to sit, stand up, lie down, and stretch out without problems. But too big of a crate is also not a good idea as they will not treat it as one anymore. It will become their toilet area or their playpen, which defeats the purpose. So if your Frenchie is a nonstandard size, you need to measure them before buying a crate. Frenchies are a medium to small breed, so a medium-sized crate that is about 30 inches mm is best. But this is for standard Frenchies, and not all Frenchies are. There are mini or micro ones, or Frenchies that are larger than normal. So if your Frenchie is one of these, a medium crate may not work. You need to measure your Frenchie to find the perfect crate size for them. Below is how you can do this. Measure Your Frenchie Take your tape measure and make sure to measure your Frenchie in inches. You need two measurements, height, and width. Measure from the top of their head to the ground, this is their height. Find the Right Crate You need to add a few inches to these measurements for allowance. Add 4 inches mm to the height and add 6 inches mm to the width. So you may need to weigh your Frenchie as well in case you will need it. The first step in crate training Frenchies is to help them like it. A positive association with the crate is important to make the process smoother. To know how you can do this, keep on reading. It should be somewhere that does not disturb them, without much house traffic. But it should also not be somewhere that isolates them from the rest of the family. The best place would be a place where you spend a lot of time in. It can be in the living room, but you can put the crate in a corner. But do not worry, you can help them get comfortable with it by adding some finishing touches. One way is by placing their favorite toys or blanket inside the crate. You can also add in some treats to push them to go inside and explore their crate. Have Them Explore Their Crate For about 1 to 4 days, you should allow your Frenchie to explore their crate on their terms. Do not force them to go inside, have them do this on their own when they are curious. Also, you should leave the door open all the time for them to do this. Sometimes, they may make a fuss and bark at the crate. This is normal since they are still getting used to it being in your home. Leave them alone when they do and they should stop within a few minutes. Try to Close the Door After they get used to going inside the crate, close the doors behind them. Do this for a few moments and make sure they see it. Then open the door again right away. Do this for a few days, about 3 days. It may take you more time, but see how your Frenchie reacts. In those few days, gradually increase the time you shut the doors. Close the Door and Leave the Room If your Frenchie already got used to having the doors shut, try leaving the room this time. Stay out of their sight for a few minutes then come back. Increase the time that you leave them alone also. It takes about 10 days to crate train your Frenchie with success. Some Frenchies will need less than this, but some will take more time. Remember to make this a positive experience for them to be successful in crate training them. Adults can stay longer, but do not keep them in for more than 7 hours. This is how long they can hold their bladders. So if you leave them longer than that, expect an unpleasant surprise when you come back. May 5, French Bulldogs are cuddly and love to bond with their owners like any other dog breed. Unfortunately, most people think that Frenchies are too bulky and heavy to carry. However, that is not the case. If held right, your Bulldog will be comfortable, and so will you. As a first-time Frenchie parent, it may feel awkward to pick up and hold your Bulldog. This is normal and is an experience a lot of owners go through. The perfect recipe for holding your bulldog right is to make them comfortable and hold them properly. How to Properly Pick Up a French Bulldog French bulldogs love the attention you give them when you cuddle and spend time with them. Do French Bulldogs like to be picked up? Most French Bulldogs absolutely do like to be picked up as they love attention and affection. However, it is important to read the cues your Frenchie is giving you. Be sure to follow the instructions below to pick them up in the safest manner possible. However, you need to do this right to provide a comfortable environment for them. Here are a few pointers to help you pick up your Frenchie correctly. Therefore train your Frenchie to expect lifts by saying something each time before you pick them up. Keep your verbal cue simple and stick to one phrase each time to make it easier for your Bulldog to associate it with being picked up. Place Your Dominant Hand Under the Front Legs After your verbal cue, place your dominant and stronger hand under the front paws and ensure that your hand rests on the chest. Most people associate this with picking up a baby since it is pretty similar. Ensure that you do this right and secure your Bulldog to avoid chances of them falling off. Lift Them Gently Once you have securely held your Bulldog, you need to lift them gently to get you both comfortable with the process. After lifting your Bulldog, cradle them the same way you would a child to get them comfortable and relaxed. Once your Bulldog is comfortable in your arms, lift them slowly upwards with confidence and composure. When you successfully pick up your Frenchie, they will be more receptive and inclined to enjoy you picking them up. Remember, you need to be confident, relaxed, and follow the steps to ensure that you pick up your Frenchie right and build trust. Holding your Frenchie will help you do this and let it get more comfortable with you. The goal of picking up your Bulldog is to hold it comfortably for a while and give it the snuggly attention it requires. When holding your Bulldog, you can leave it in your arms or place it on your lap. However, remember that switching positions requires you to be gentle and support your Bulldog to avoid accidents. Going slow with your dog will help it ease into different holding positions. How to Pick Up and Hold an Aggressive French Bulldog When dealing with an aggressive Bulldog, accidents may be more prevalent since they will not be cooperative with your approach. However, if you are yet to train it, avoid picking and holding it all together and just play with your Frenchie. Doing this will help you avoid an incident where your Bulldog slips from your arms because of its restlessness. A great way to pick and hold an aggressive French Bulldog when needed is to ensure their feet are secure. Your priority should be to trap the legs in your laps to help avoid sudden movements. Doing this is a great strategy, especially when you need to take your Frenchie for Vet appointments. However, you should aim to avoid picking up an aggressive Bulldog until you successfully train it. Therefore, you should always aim to pick up your Frenchie correctly and avoid some mistakes that may seem harmless. The most common ways not to pick up your Frenchie include; By Their Scruffs Dogs tend to pick up their puppies by their scruffs and move with them with ease. When most people see this, it seems like something right, and they follow suit. However, picking up a Frenchie by its scruff can be painful. However, you can get away with picking up a puppy by its scruffs but not an adult Frenchie. Avoiding this practice will help you ensure that your French Bulldog experiences what is comfortable and relaxing. Using a Collar French Bulldogs are pretty sensitive in their necks and backs, so most people forego using collars. This is because if your Bulldog constantly tugs on the collar, it puts pressure on its neck and back and could result in some health conditions. Therefore, picking up your Frenchie using their collar should not be a viable option. It is dangerous since it cuts off the air supply and strangles your dog. By Their Tails Picking up a dog by its tail is something children would not find wrong and may do it often. Thankfully, most Frenchie have very short tails so it is less of a concern but you should still teach your children not to pull on their tail. Therefore, you need to teach your kids how to pick up and hold a bulldog correctly. Picking up a Frenchie by its tail can lead to dislocation and pain due to tampering with the muscle and nerves. The pain and dislocation may lead to difficulties in movement and the ability to relieve itself. By Their Legs or Underarms Lifting a French Bulldog by its legs or underarms can lead to dislocation , muscle problems, and mess with its ligaments. Therefore, you need to avoid picking up your Frenchie by their legs, which is common when dealing with other dogs. First, provide a safe space by picking up your Frenchie correctly each time to help it get comfortable and start looking forward to such moments. Then ensure that you gently switch holding positions to find what feels comfortable for you. Share on facebook. Pin 0 Shares This week we published a new video on the French Bulldog Owner YouTube channel subscribe for weekly updates which showed you how to pick up a Frenchie. You can see that video below which also comes in handy if you want to know the best way to hold a French Bulldog. How do you pick up a French Bulldog? Watch the video below to see how I do it. Give your Frenchie a verbal cue By using a verbal cue every time, you can get your Frenchie used to being held and picked up. Thread your stronger arm under the Frenchie and between the front two legs. Use your other arm under the back legs and backside Now with your remaining arm, go under the Frenchies lifting the back legs up and tucking your arm under the legs and backside. Hold your Frenchie properly with your other arm supporting the back legs and under the backside. The method outlined above is perfect for dogs that weigh 25 pounds and under. Do French Bulldogs like to be picked up? French Bulldogs love attention and cuddles, so most will not mind being picked up. However, each dog is different and the best way to make them comfortable with being held is practice and giving them a verbal cue before the lift. This and pulling up by the legs can also be very painful for a dog. It can lead to dislocations, strains, and ligament damage. Keep an eye on your children and teach them how to hold a French Bulldog properly when you first get a puppy. Being picked up by the tail can lead to intense pain due to muscle and nerve damage. Tail dislocations and injuries can even lead to a loss of movement and inability to go the toilet. Not only can it temporarily cut off the air supply and strangle the dog, it could also lead to damage to their trachea. Conclusion Holding your Frenchie incorrectly can be potentially risky. Approaching your French Bulldog calmly means taking things slow and steady. Making sudden movements or grabbing them suddenly can startle or stress them out, making it harder to pick them up in the future. Instead, approach your dog slowly and confidently, using a soothing tone of voice to reassure them. When it comes to lifting your French Bulldog, supporting their entire body weight is crucial. Using one hand to support their chest and front legs while using the other hand to support their hindquarters will keep them comfortable and safe. Avoid picking them up by the scruff of their neck or legs, as this can cause discomfort or even injury. Keeping one hand supporting their chest and front legs while using the other hand to support their hindquarters will distribute their weight evenly and prevent unnecessary strain on their joints. If they seem uncomfortable or agitated, it may be time to put them down or adjust your grip. Dogs are sensitive creatures that can pick up on our emotions quickly. Approaching with fear or anxiety can make them nervous or defensive. Getting down to their level, avoiding direct eye contact, and speaking in a soft and reassuring tone can help make the interaction more comfortable for both of you. If your French Bulldog seems nervous or uncomfortable, remember to give them some space and try again later. Forcing an interaction can lead to negative associations and make the process of picking them up more challenging in the future. Approaching your French Bulldog calmly is essential for building trust and ensuring a safe pick-up experience. Supporting Their Entire Body Weight One crucial aspect of this is learning how to carry them correctly, while supporting their entire body weight. To start, approach your French Bulldog calmly and confidently, making them feel secure in your arms. Lift them gently, keeping them close to your body to avoid any sudden movements that could cause them to panic. Bending or twisting their body can cause damage to their spine and lead to back problems. If you plan on carrying your French Bulldog for an extended period, consider using a supportive carrier or sling. This will distribute their weight evenly and prevent any strain on your arms or back. This will also help prevent any injuries or discomfort caused by improper handling. Proper handling of your French Bulldog is crucial for their overall well-being. As we mentioned before, make sure to cradle them calmly and confidently, supporting their entire body weight with one hand under their chest and the other under their hind legs while keeping their spine straight to prevent any damage. Once you have lifted your Frenchie, be sure to hold them in a way that keeps them secure and comfortable. Begin by providing support for their back and hind legs. Placing one hand under their chest and the other under their hindquarters will help distribute their weight evenly and provide support. Keeping your French Bulldog close to your body is also important as it provides them with a sense of security. Hold them against your chest or stomach to prevent them from squirming or falling out of your arms. Most importantly, avoid holding your Frenchie by their front legs or neck as this can cause discomfort or even injury. Instead, focus on supporting their body and letting them feel secure in your arms. If they seem uncomfortable or are struggling to get free, put them down gently and let them move around on their own. This ensures that they feel happy and can move freely. Before picking up your French Bulldog, observe their behavior for signs of stress such as panting, shaking, or growling. This will ensure that your furry friend feels safe and secure while being held. When approaching your French Bulldog, crouch down to their level and offer a treat or use a gentle tone of voice to reassure them. This will help build trust and make them feel more comfortable with you. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that may startle your dog; instead, take it slow and steady. When lifting your French Bulldog, always support their entire body weight. Place one hand under their chest and another hand under their hindquarters. Lift them slowly and smoothly while keeping them close to your body. Avoid lifting your dog by their legs or tail as this can cause injury. While holding your French Bulldog, continue to pay attention to their body language. If they start to squirm or wiggle, this may be a sign that they want to be put down. Similarly, if they become stiff or tense, they may be uncomfortable or scared. If you notice any of these behaviors, put them down gently and give them some space. Avoiding Injury and Discomfort French Bulldogs are some of the most beloved and charming pets around, but picking them up and holding them requires some extra care. This can cause unnecessary strain and discomfort, leading to potential injuries. Instead, you should always pick up your dog by supporting their chest and hindquarters with both hands. This technique distributes their weight evenly, preventing any undue stress on their limbs. As a brachycephalic breed, French Bulldogs have a shorter snout and narrower airways than other dogs. This can make it more difficult for them to breathe, especially when being held in certain positions. Some dogs may feel anxious or scared when lifted off the ground, particularly if they are not used to it. To help alleviate any stress or anxiety, you should approach your dog calmly and gently. Use positive reinforcement such as treats or praise to help them feel comfortable and secure in your arms. Here are some tips to make sure you do it right. Approach your Frenchie with confidence and calmness. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle them. When picking up your Frenchie, use both hands to support their weight evenly. Place one hand under their chest and front legs while using the other hand to support their hindquarters. This will help prevent any strain or injury to their joints. Avoid lifting your Frenchie by their legs or tail as this can cause discomfort or even injury. Instead, focus on lifting them from their chest or under their front legs. Once you have lifted your Frenchie, hold them securely but gently. Use a firm grip that supports their whole body without squeezing too tightly. If they seem uncomfortable or restless, it may be time to put them down or adjust your grip. Avoid holding your Frenchie for too long as this can cause them discomfort or restlessness. Be mindful of their needs and give them breaks when necessary. Their distinct personalities capture our hearts and make us fall in love with them. Knowing how to pick them up properly and hold them safely is crucial for their well-being and your peace of mind. Remember always to approach them calmly and confidently, support their entire body weight when lifting or carrying them, hold them securely but gently in a way that keeps them comfortable and safe while paying attention to their body language. You may also like:.

It is important for senior dogs to have a feeding routine, that the food bowl remain in the same area of the house so that they know where to find it, and that they have a rug or yoga mat to stand on while eating to avoid slipping or having trouble standing on hard floors. If your senior dog has gone longer than 24 hours without eating, they should see their veterinarian for a thorough physical examination and possible diagnostics to investigate the cause of their loss of appetite. Is Your Dog a Puppy? Small breed puppies, especially, are at a high risk of hypoglycemia low blood sugar and should be watched closely for signs of lethargy or collapse if they are not eating. If this happens, they should be treated on an emergency basis. Some puppies may not like larger kibble, as it can be hard for their puppy teeth to chew, especially if they are just transitioning to solid food. This can be remedied by mixing in water and letting it soak to create more of a porridge consistency, or the kibble can be mixed with canned food as well. If your puppy still will not eat, they should be seen right away by a veterinarian. If they are also lethargic, vomiting, or having diarrhea, they should be seen on an emergency basis. A newly adopted dog can take days or weeks to settle into their new home. It is important to ensure that they are given a quiet place to eat, away from other pets or children that may interrupt them. However, if they are lethargic, vomiting, or having diarrhea, or go more than 48 hours without eating anything, they should be examined by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Did Anything Change in Your Household? Some dogs may be sensitive enough that a change in their environment may cause inappetence. Examples include a new addition to the family whether a new pet or a new baby , construction, having people over, or even a change in the location of the food and water bowls. Some dogs with separation anxiety even expect their loved one to be in the room while they eat, and will stop eating if their human leaves the room. While this is not necessarily a health concern, it is a sign that your dog may have severe anxiety that needs to be addressed. Calming chews such as Composure or Solliquin may be helpful, and calming pheromone collars or diffusers such as Adaptil can be beneficial as well. However, if you are concerned that your dog may have severe separation anxiety, consider consulting with a board-certified veterinary behaviorist for help. Did You Switch Dog Foods? This also allows your dog to get used to the new food over time, rather than making a sudden switch. Is Your Dog Pregnant or in Heat? Early in pregnancy , your dog may have a reduced or absent appetite. If your dog is in the middle or late part of her gestation, she may eat less because her stomach has less room to expand due to the presence of puppies, but she should make up for this by eating a smaller amount more frequently. Regardless of what point of gestation your dog is in, if she has not eaten in over 24 hours, your veterinarian should be called right away to ensure that everything is okay. Dogs in heat may also have a decreased appetite, which is considered normal. However, if she goes longer than 48 hours without eating anything, she should be checked by her veterinarian. If she is lethargic, vomiting, having diarrhea, or drinking and urinating more than usual, she should be seen by her veterinarian right away, as this could indicate an infection in the uterus known as pyometra. Is Your Dog Diabetic? If your dog is diabetic and will not eat, this could be an indication that something is seriously wrong. If your veterinarian advised you to give a half dose of insulin if your dog skips one meal, do so, but alert your veterinarian immediately if your dog skips another meal. If your diabetic dog skips a meal, is lethargic, nonresponsive, or vomiting or having diarrhea, they should be seen by a veterinarian immediately, as this could be an indication of hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis, both of which are life-threatening if not treated right away. It is not unusual for your dog to skip a meal or two after a surgery. You may try tempting your dog to eat with a spoonful of canned food or boneless, skinless, boiled chicken on top of their kibble. Better yet, ask your veterinarian for a few cans of a prescription gastrointestinal diet to feed for the first few days after surgery. These foods are highly palatable, are easily digestible, and can help counteract some of the gastrointestinal upset that can happen after surgery and anesthesia. If your dog had oral or facial surgery, your veterinarian may recommend feeding only canned food for two or more weeks. This also means that your dog should not receive hard treats or chew on hard toys until they are declared healed at their recheck appointment. If your dog is refusing to eat the prescribed canned food, reach out to your veterinarian in case there are any post-operative complications. Heat canned food for a few seconds in the microwave make sure to take it out of the metal can and put it into a microwave-safe bowl. Canned food can become scorching hot quickly, so feel the food first to avoid any burned tongues. Try mixing some plain, boneless, skinless boiled chicken and rice with their kibble to encourage them to eat. Add a probiotic such as Purina Fortiflora or Advita on top of the food. Not only can this make the food more palatable, but it can also help any inflamed or irritated intestine heal by rebalancing a healthy gastrointestinal flora. If you have tried these tricks and your dog continues to refuse his food, he should be seen by his veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Unless explicitly prescribed by your veterinarian, your dog should not be given any over-the-counter gastrointestinal medications like Imodium or Pepto Bismol , as these could cause serious side effects or even interact with medications that your veterinarian may want to give. It is best to consult with your veterinarian before attempting to treat symptoms at home. Featured image: iStock. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Puppy vomit is common. This is because dogs have a well-developed vomiting center in their brains, which allows them to throw up much easier than many other animals. While most of the time harmless, puppy vomit can, however, be a sign of serious and even life-threatening illness. So, it pays to understand the full range of causes and implications. A: Yes, it is normal for puppies to vomit. Puppy vomit however can also be a sign of serious and even life-threatening illness. Q: A: Yes, it is not uncommon for puppies to vomit often. Puppies are subject to a range of condition and experiences that trigger vomiting such as eating too much, too often, eating foreign objects or intolerance to human foods, consuming toxic or poisonous substances, or as a reaction to conditions of stress or anxiety. How often is too often? Multiple episodes of vomiting on the same day or on subsequent days, vomiting accompanied by diarrhea, or acting sick or lethargic or appearing to be in pain are indications that it is time to call your vet. Q: Why is my puppy vomiting yellow? If your dog is throwing up bile with any frequency, you should have them checked out by a vet right away. Bile is a sign of a number of conditions that affect the digestive system, including inflammatory disease, ulcers, parasite infections, and certain cancers. In each of these cases, the underlying condition needs to be diagnosed and treated by a veterinarian to relieve the vomiting. Q: Why is my puppy vomiting white foam? A: Your puppy could be vomiting white foam for several reasons. The most common reason is that the puppy has eaten something that has irritated the stomach, such as grass and plant material. There are other more serious reasons a puppy vomits white foam, including obstruction of the stomach or intestines, toxin exposure, pancreatitis, and acid reflux. Coughing up white foam from kennel cough can often be mistaken for vomiting. If your puppy vomits white foam and acts sick in any way, call your vet for advice. Q: Why is my puppy vomiting after eating? A: There are several reason why your puppy might be vomiting right after eating. Overly-enthusiastic eaters, stressed puppies, or puppies who must compete with other dogs for food often eat too fast or too much food which can come right back up again. Try different solutions such as serving smaller meals more often throughout the day, placing food bowls in areas where there is less traffic or excitement, utilizing tools to slow down eating such as commercially-available slow feeder bowls, and where there is more than one dog in the house, feeding puppies in separate spaces can all help. If the condition is not environmental or conditional but rather physical such as regurgitation, consult with your veterinarian for an appropriate solution. While vomiting is not a specific disease or a diagnosis in and of itself, it is a clinical sign that can occur with many diseases or conditions. Generally speaking, occasional bouts of puppy vomit are not uncommon. If your puppy vomits once in a blue moon then it is likely no cause for concern. However, a puppy throwing up becomes more significant when: The vomiting does not stop There is blood in the vomit There is nothing left in the stomach to throw up except mucus and bile the yellow fluid Age matters, too. In puppies 6 months old or less, vomiting is also a more serious condition than in older dogs because of their smaller size, immature immune systems and tendency to become easily weak and dehydrated. While puppy vomit may have a simple, straightforward cause such as eating too much food too fast, stressful situations and gastrointestinal upset from eating foreign objects , it may be an indicator of something far more serious. Vomiting in puppies can have a wide range of causes, and determining the correct one may be quite complicated. For example, one of the more common and serious infectious causes of puppy vomit is parvovirus infection. Parvo is a viral infection that, if left untreated, is potentially fatal in puppies. Some symptoms that the puppy vomit is becoming more serious are: Frequent vomiting occurs more than once a day or on consecutive days Projectile vomiting when body expels vomit with more force than usual Appearing to be in pain or discomfort Acting tired or weak Bright blood present in vomit Dark blood present in stool looks like coffee grounds Vomiting in combination with diarrhea Visible abdominal bloating What are the causes of vomiting? The list is long and includes: Eating something that causes inflammation, obstruction or infection in the gut Abrupt change from regular dog food to something new Gobbling food or eating food too fast Intolerance to some human foods Reaction to stressful situations or condition of anxiety Acute bacterial or viral inflammation of the stomach or intestines Intestinal parasites e. Your veterinarian will utilize several tools to diagnose the problem, including a history from you what has been going on , a physical examination of your puppy, laboratory or imaging studies like x-ray or ultrasound or response to therapy. To help your vet make the diagnosis, bring a sample of the vomit to the clinic, because how the vomit looks can tell the vet a lot. A puppy throwing up food that is undigested can be due to food poisoning, anxiety, eating too fast or simply overeating. If bright red blood is found, the stomach could be ulcerated; if the blood is brown and looks like coffee grounds, the problem may be in the intestines. Strong digestive odors are usually observed when there is an intestinal obstruction. If it turns out to be no more than a passing incident, your veterinarian may ask you to limit the diet to clear fluids and to collect stool samples over that period as the underlying cause may be passed along in the stool. Vomit color or appearance. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. On top of this, your dog cannot speak and tell you how they feel like a person can. So how should you decide when to call the vet? There are some symptoms of illness and injury that signal life-threatening situations and getting immediate and urgent help is critical. Learn To Recognize And Act Upon These Warning Signs Following is a list of symptoms you should learn to recognize and use as a guide to decide when a call or visit to the vet is required. Better than anyone, you know your own dog. You know their look, personality, energy levels, temperament, eating habits, toilet habits and how they feel to the touch if you groom regularly. Even if those changes are subtle. Of course use common sense! Other more serious causes can be diseases of internal organs, intestinal diseases or even parasites. If your dog seems to improve, they will probably be OK. So a loss of appetite should always be monitored closely as a possible sign of underlying disease. Similarly, any signs of sudden and unexpected weight loss, even in overweight dogs, is a cause for concern. For a dog to miss a meal now and then is perfectly ordinary, but not eating for more than 24hrs should set the alarm bells ringing. And not eating for 2 days or more, or eating and almost instantly vomiting more than once in a day means you should definitely call your vet. Noticeable Increase in Thirst, Water Intake and Change in Urination Habits Taking into account changes in exercise and weather temperatures, your dogs drinking and urination habits should be fairly consistent. So you first need to know how much water your Labrador should be drinking each day , and then make sure you monitor it. If your dog suddenly changes to emptying his water bowl at a much faster rate, or needs to go to toilet far more often than normal, or even starts to have accidents in the home where otherwise they never do, this is usually a signal for you to call the vet. Causes for this can be hormonal problems, kidney disease, diabetes or a host of other things requiring medical attention. Also if they produce hard and dry stools that they have difficulty passing, they are probably constipated the moisture gets absorbed and the stools dry out the longer they stay in the colon. Some causes of constipation can be dehydration or a lack of fiber in the diet, but you should still consult your vet before a dietary change. Other causes can be a blockage due to swallowing a foreign object, infections in the anal glands, injury in the back-end area or even just stress. Constipation can become very serious if it continues for more than just a couple of days. The waste builds up expanding their insides and backs up inside them. This requires medical intervention to resolve before it gets too serious. The list of possible causes can include bronchitis, influenza, kennel cough and heart-worm, though often it will just be a minor allergy or a mild infection that will safely pass. But you should monitor the situation and be ready to call the vet if other symptoms arise, breathing becomes labored or it lasts for more than just a few days. This could be down to diet, allergies , parasites or skin diseases but whatever the cause you should consult your vet to get to the root of the problem and solve it. Thankfully the majority of these turn out to be perfectly safe benign fatty deposits, but now and then a lump is a warning sign of a malignant cancerous tumor. When To Call The Vet For Weakness, Lethargy and Tiredness Your Lab may seem unusually tired and lethargic after an extreme bout of exercise or in extremely hot weather, but other than this, prolonged tiredness and lethargy that lasts more than 2 days is a reason to call the vet. When To Call The Vet For a Change in Temperament A normally friendly, even mannered dog with a good temperament that suddenly turns aggressive out of character will have an underlying problem at the root of the change. It could be psychological or environmental, but you should first have your Lab examined by a vet to rule out any underlying medical problems which can often be the cause. This is quite common in Labradors who love to spend time in water. Both infections and mites are easily cured once you pay a visit to your vet, get a correct diagnosis and medication. The most common causes of this are parasites worms and blocked, impacted and possibly infected anal glands. When To Call The Vet For Lameness and Limping If you see your lab limping or lame, the first thing you should do is check their paws for obvious things like thorns or small pieces of glass or small cuts. Once removed and the tiny wound is cleaned and covered, your dog may limp for another day or so but it will usually heal OK. But there could be far more serious causes of limping and lameness such as fractures, breaks, joint pains and larger wounds. If you find your dog limping and cannot identify an obvious and not serious cause, you should consult your vet with your concerns and as always, follow their advice. But what of milder pains and discomfort? You might notice tender painful areas when grooming or handling your dog that otherwise they show no signs of. Dogs are very good at this, just hiding things and carrying on. If you do notice any mild pain, be sure to keep an eye on it. As always, better safe than sorry! Final Thoughts And Conclusion This list is by no means complete but is a compilation of the more common symptoms seen in dogs. Never feel embarrassed if you get the all clear. Always seek and trust in the advice of a professional…and almost nobody else. Your Labradors health is too important to have it any other way. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Reviewed by Jennifer Coates Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM, is an accomplished veterinarian and writer with more than 25 years of experience in veterinary medicine, animal welfare, and conservation. There are various reasons why your puppy may be vomiting from eating spoiled foods or random objects off the ground to motion sickness. It's important to keep a proper eye on your puppy if it's acting lethargic after throwing up or repeatedly vomiting throughout the day because you may need to seek veterinary help. Why Do Puppies Vomit? Many cases of dog vomiting result from gastric irritation due to eating inedible objects, spoiled or rich food raiding the garbage, table scraps , or simply eating too much too fast. Dogs and puppies may also vomit due to motion sickness during car rides or from poisoning or swallowing dangerous objects. Puppies are at special risk for infectious causes of vomiting, particularly if they have not completed their vaccination series. For example, vomiting can be a sign of canine distemper virus or canine parvovirus. Intestinal parasites are another common cause of vomiting in puppies. In deep-chested breeds, unproductive vomiting may be a sign of bloat. Other causes of vomiting include organ dysfunction liver and kidney, for example , Addison's disease, gastrointestinal ulcers, anatomic abnormalities, pancreatitis, abdominal infections, and inflammatory bowel disease. Repeated vomiting, vomiting along with diarrhea , unproductive vomiting retching or dry heaving , vomit that contains blood or other abnormal materials, or vomiting in a puppy that acts lethargic or confused are all serious situations that require a visit to the vet. Differences Between Vomiting and Regurgitation Vomiting is different from regurgitation. Vomiting is an active process that is accompanied by retching and abdominal contractions. Regurgitation, on the other hand, is passive. Dogs may even appear surprised when food comes out of their mouths. Regurgitation can occur minutes to hours after your dog eats its food, and the expelled material is mostly undigested and may even be tube-shaped like the esophagus. Your veterinarian will need to differentiate between regurgitation and vomiting because the two symptoms have very different causes and treatments. Treatment and Prevention Vomiting may be a sign of a dangerous illness. Even if the underlying cause is not serious, vomiting for any reason can result in dehydration and other problems that can kill puppies very quickly. Feed Mild Foods Your veterinarian may recommend a mild diet for a few days to help your puppy recover. Foods are available from your vet, or you can prepare white rice and boiled white meat chicken with the skin and bones removed to give your puppy a little nutrition while recuperating. Also, make sure your puppy continues to drink adequate amounts of water. Call your vet ASAP if your puppy vomits after eating a mild meal or drinking water. If your puppy has a more serious condition causing its vomiting, your vet will prescribe appropriate medical treatment. Hospitalization may be necessary in severe cases. Slow Down Eating If your puppy is healthy but wolfs down its food and throws up right after eating, it may be eating too fast. Try to work on slowing down how fast your puppy eats. Feed puppies in separate rooms to cut down on " competition " eating. Place a large inedible object in the dish so the puppy is forced to eat around it. Feed your puppy several small meals a day. Inducing Vomiting in Puppies Puppies are known for ingesting things they shouldn't, and there may be occasions when you need to induce vomiting so your puppy doesn't absorb toxins. However, there are some instances when you should never induce vomiting--for example, if your puppy swallows something sharp, if your puppy ingests caustic material such as drain cleaner, or if your puppy loses consciousness. Always consult your vet before giving your puppy any medication, including anything to make it throw up. If your vet gives you the go-ahead, hydrogen peroxide solution is the best over-the-counter option for getting your dog to vomit. If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet. Article Sources The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Canine Parvovirus. Merck Veterinary Manual Vomiting pets. Fluid Therapy for Pediatric Patients. The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice vol. When should I worry about my dog not eating? In order to determine the treatment to give to your dog, it is important to identify what the underlying cause of the reluctance to eat is. There are different types of anorexia. True anorexia is when your dog simply refuses to eat — this is often associated with serious illnesses. You could offer them some bland home cooked food like boiled chicken and rice, which is a tasty but easily digestible diet. Try warming it up a little in the microwave, as this sometimes will entice them to eat. You could offer smaller meals more frequently. Avoid chopping and changing the diet and offering too many different types of food. Sometimes a quick change in food can cause an upset tummy, which may complicate matters. Be careful to avoid any toxic foods such as onions and garlic. If your dog is quiet, not themselves, or displaying any other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness or lethargy; or has not eaten at all for 2 days then you should seek veterinary attention. Potential causes of anorexia There are many different possible causes! They include: Illness A decline in appetite could be a sign of a significant illness such as kidney disease, liver disease , diabetes , infection bacterial or viral , fever, cancer , pyometra infection of the womb , pain anywhere in the body, not just the mouth , gastroenteritis etc. If your vet suspects one of these diseases could be the cause then they will need to run some diagnostic tests. Dental disease If your dog has oral pain due to decay, gingivitis inflammation of the gums , a broken tooth, abscess or an oral tumour then this can cause them not to eat. Environment Sometimes dogs can be quite sensitive to a change in their routine or environment. Particularly if they are in unfamiliar surroundings. Causes of stress could include moving house, taking your dog on a trip or a stay at the kennels. If they are uncomfortable with a situation they are in they may not feel like eating. For example, hot weather, being around another dog, a different food bowl, or being fed at an uncomfortable height. Medication Some medications may cause a reduced appetite or nausea. If your dog is taking a new course of medication and this occurs, you should let your vet know. Vaccinations Vaccines prevent some serious, often fatal, infectious diseases in dogs. If food has been left out, or not stored in an airtight container then it will go rancid after a while. What is the treatment for anorexia? Treatment will very much depend on what the underlying cause of the anorexia is. Often once this has been addressed, their appetite will return to normal. Sometimes this may take a few days and additional measures may be required. This is passed into the oesophagus food pipe so your dog can receive a liquid diet via the tube. Finding and treating the underlying cause is the best way to approach this situation. To get your dog back up and about again.

Escaping Diabetes If your dog has diabetes, another symptom of that is weight loss. But, besides weight loss, you might also notice other symptoms such as excessive thirst, urination, and urinary tract infections if your dog suffers from diabetes. Dental Issues While it might not seem possible, but many times when a dog has dental issues. Mouth Lesions As with dental issues, mouth lesions can also result in a loss of weight in a dog because eating food is just too painful for it. The most reliable way to detect these issues is by taking your dog to the vet as soon as you notice a lacking interest in food and a subsequent weight loss as a result. Hyperthyroidism is a condition that will result in a rapid metabolism that leaves your dog in danger of experiencing an extreme loss of weight. Once that is accomplished, thyroid issues are easily managed with the help of medications. PetMD also mentions that additional symptoms include shaking, a lack of appetite, increased thirst and increased frequency of urination. There are other symptoms that could lead to weight loss during pregnancy and range from anxiety lack of appetite , poor digestion, or heart disease. If you notice a dull coat, poor muscle function, diarrhea, dry skin, vomiting, and depression or lethargy, it is vital to contact your vet immediately. And this is sometimes just the way things are, but other times it could be because of an issue with their health. And once again, your best bet is to take your dog to the vet and get it checked for any serious issues. Solutions When you notice your Labradoodle is underweight then your best decision is to consult a vet to ensure that nothing serious is wrong with them. And when your vet has given them the all-clear, take a look at some of these great ways that you can help your Labradoodle gain weight. And this product is based on real meat unlike a lot of other dry food that is plant-based. Giving them two big meals and one small meal can have the benefit of being similar to the routine they already have now. Give More Treats Throughout the Day Another good idea could be to give your Labradoodle a lot more treats throughout the day. If you give your Labradoodle too many treats they could end up being too stuffed to eat any of their ordinary meals. Bananas , peanut butter , chicken and eggs are all great choices. Conclusion More often than not, having a Labradoodle that is getting skinny, is mostly down to the quality and amount of the food they get, and not some life-threatening disease. As you can see there are several things you can do to help your Labradoodle gain some weight, as there are quite a few things that could be the cause of their weight loss. Try feeding them more meals every day or allowing them to free feed. Give them more treats. Journal their meals and regular weighing them. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. Not only is she familiar with breed standards, options, personality and health traits, but she provides excellent guidance on issues such as basic obedience training, grooming, nutrition and helping pups make the adjustment to a new home. We couldn't be more thrilled with the health, intellect, adaptability and affection of our little girl, Maisy. She is a far more amazing canine companion than we ever could have hoped for. She takes great care in each one of her puppies and have continued to help guide and support us as we raise our puppy Gretel. We feel so lucky to have been able to purchase our puppy from Kristin. The exposure and socialization Gretel had before she even came home was amazing. The fact that the puppies are born and live their first two months in Kristin's kitchen make them a wonderful family pet. Gretel loves to be around people and has the most charming character. We absolutely love our puppy and cannot begin to thank Kristin and her family for all that they have done for us. We cannot recommend them more highly! I was not looking for a Labradoodle at all, but there was something so special about him. From the beginning, Kristin was very helpful. As soon as I contacted her, she was sharing website information about the breed and educating me about these special companions. My main goal was to find a healthy puppy, that liked other dogs and cats, was easy to train, and was big enough to play with my 13 year old son, yet not as big as a lab. Kotah fit the criteria. Her depth of knowledge about the breed, thoroughness in terms of ensuring healthy puppies and credibility she demonstrated in early meetings by phone and in person led me to go with Kristin. We trusted her to pick out the right puppy for our family and boy, are we glad we did. I'm convinced we got the puppy that was right for our family, in terms of temperament and one that fit in with our lifestyle. These are some of things that I really liked from our own experience of buying a puppy from Kristin: No sales pressure: Kristin genuinely wants to match you up with the right puppy. I had the deposit check ready from the first in-person meeting and she simply would not take it until she had completed her health guarantee paperwork. She was also waiting for the puppies to mature a bit to assess them. Many breeders want the deposit check for a future litter before they will even return your phone calls. Any question I have about Emmy on things she's doing, behaviors, habits, training, grooming tips, I go to Kristin and I'm assured of getting a thorough instructions and suggestion things to try or why she does these things. Access to an Expert: Not only is she knowledgeable but Kristin wants to share her knowledge and help you as the new owner. You can ask her anything and she calls you right back with helpful suggestions. In fact, I spent an hour and a half in Kristin's garage yesterday learning to groom Emmy myself using the clipper after a disastrous visit to the professional groomer. She is that accessible. She showed me how to groom Emmy, get the mats out, products that might work for her. Sample products I should try. No, she's not trying to sell me any of this stuff. She just wants me to try stuff that might work for my dog. Complete Trust: Lastly, having talked to many many breeders over 6 months that I was researching the breed of the dog that I wanted to get for our family, I ran across a lot of breeders. With some of them, you get the feeling that this is their livelihood and financial transaction trumps in the end. They say the right things but it seems a bit hallow. From the time we had our first phone conversation, subsequent in-person meetings, visits to see the puppies, I had complete trust in Kristin. In fact, one of the families that had a deposit with one of the puppies then changed their mind, Kristin had no problem giving them their deposit back. She did not want the puppy to go to a family that may not have been the best "fit" for that puppy, she made an exception. I don't know other breeders that would do that. Since technically, if you change your mind, the breeder has every right to keep the deposit. Hello, that's why they call it "deposit. If we were to add another Australian Labradoodle to our family, I would not hesitate to work with Kristin again. I have also recommended her to all my friends and family. You will not be disappointed. As we approached a first Labradoodle, Kristin asked us deep questions about our family and explained an approach she uses to fit every puppy, all who have been evaluated carefully for temperament, with a family whose personality and preferences and population little kids? No kids? At work all day? We spent a good hour-plus in conversation so she could understand a lot about our household, and worked on making a match for our family as opposed to selling our household a dog. We are thrilled three years in with a dog who fits like a glove with us. Thank you! We have 2 wonderful Australian Labradoodles from Kristin, and for cuteness, their pictures are attached. But there is something more important to say about Kristin and Golden Gate Labradoodles. Getting a puppy is bringing a new incredible creature into your lives. You nurture it, love it, and it returns that love in so many ways. We love, we laugh, we become the most important elements of their lives. Kristin is always there. She has a closed Facebook group for all of her owners. Getting a GGL puppy gives you access to this wonderful family. Advice, questions answered, relevant articles, all are part of her support. I contacted you stating that I was looking for an independent pup with lots of energy, and that's exactly what I got! I had no idea what I was getting into because Poppy is my first dog. You correctly identified that I wasn't exactly ready for a puppy and helped me place her with a trainer, but I am so happy that we did things the way that we did. Poppy has brought so much joy and levity to my life. She is a smart and funny girl who is an endless source of entertainment. She is also my best friend. I had no idea how amazing of a companion she would be. She is always by side when we are home together. I could not imagine life without her! She makes life more enjoyable as it's impossible to not be in the moment with such an active pup. We hike, go the the beach she's an excellent swimmer. I firmly believe that no other human could provide this degree of love and support as a companion don't tell my friends and family! Again, thank you so much for helping me find a dog that is the right fit for me. I would never have found her without you listening to exactly what I was looking for! If I had to do it all over again, I would do it exactly the same way! My experience began to when I was calling breeders in the Bay Area. Not only did Kristin return my call she spent over an hour educating me about the breed as well as asking lots of questions about our home life in order that she might match the perfect temperament for our lifestyle. I was so impressed with her breadth of knowledge and passion as well as commitment that I stopped looking for breeders. I knew I had found an amazing breeder with high ethics and values I love this breed. Always had Labradors in the past. I find these dogs we have two super smart and so easy to train. They are mellow from birth. Clearly well-socialized puppies. They want to be with you and are content just being by your side. Excellent with babies and small children. I would trust them completely with an infant. They make eye contact like humans! As a guardian family we have had two litters. Each time Kristin was accessible 24 hours a day. She provided support and tons of information. She tends to lean toward holistic natural methods whenever appropriate. From best diets to excellent medical needs. Kristin covers all expenses up front related to breeding. I felt she had my back through the entire breeding process. I love this woman!!! Kristin knows her dogs and this breed so well and she is caring, knowledgeable, trustworthy, and highly intuitive about finding the best fit with your family. It has been so much fun to be a part of this community with our floppy, funny, smart puppies, grand-puppies, and pack mates. I knew that Topper was the one from the moment I met him. We love him to pieces and we are so grateful to Kristin for connecting us. I found Kristin in researching Australian Labradoodles. Winnie is everything Kristin said she would be- calm, loyal, observant and super well behaved. Thank you Kristin for adding so much joy to our lives! I do not know of any other breeder who is more responsible than Kristin. She is diligent in making sure that each of her dogs comes from a reputable family line, investigating gene pools, health records, and temperament. She is meticulous in making sure that each pup is matched as perfectly as possible with their new family to match energy levels, temperament, etc. The Australian Labradoodle is a special dog breed that comes with a diverse gene pool that produces an amazing dog. Kristin is helping to elevate this breed to the highest standard possible. She only works with responsible breeders. To own a Golden Gate Labradoodle is a privilege! Kristin was marvelous at providing reassurance for my fears and was responsive to all of our queries and request for information. It was obvious she cares deeply about all her dogs, her own and the puppies she places. I was a little skeptical that this claim was true for every litter but after being part of the Facebook group I can see that this is truly her philosophy. I sincerely believe that Kristin made the best possible match for our family. Our pup has always been mellow, super friendly, and easily trainable. We always get positive comment when out walking him and at the dog park. And whilst I was struggling to cope with the behaviors of a new puppy, all my friends were telling me how lucky I was, because he was so well behaved. The most wonderful thing about having a Golden Gate Labradoodle is the supportive community in the private Facebook group. It is so reassuring to be able to ask advice, ask for tips when you are a new owner. We love being part of the Golden Gate Labradoodle family, best decision we ever made. After we submitted our application, she called us and at the end of the conversation not only were we convinced that we wanted one of her dogs we felt that we would be a part of an awesome doodle family. When we went to the garden play date to meet the puppies, it was evident that Kristin took the time to ensure to that the puppies were matched with the right families. This is evidenced by our handsome boy Cooper. His personality blends perfectly with ours and he completes our family. Cooper is a sweet boy with a wonderful temperament. When people ask where we got him, we never hesitate to recommend Kristin Hotti and Golden Gate Labradoodles. Kristin was referred to us by another breeder. Her knowledge about puppies, their personalities and lineage is impeccable. We began our puppy search certain that we wanted a chocolate colored female. Much to our delight, we fell in love with our male, parchment puppy because of his gentle, loving personality. Australian Labradoodles are such a lovely combination of sweet cuddliness and playfulness! The GGLD family has been a fantastic support network for grooming, nutrition, playdates etc. We love joining Kristin for puppy washing parties and hope to add another dog to our family soon. We did quite a bit of research to look for the right dog for our family, and we were so amazed when we learned about the beautiful ALD breed. Kristin is a professional and knowledgeable breeder who took the time with us to make sure we had enough guidance obedience, nutrition, grooming, etc to begin our time with our sweet pup, Winston. After 10 months, we can say that he has been an absolute blessing. He is loving, smart, and very social. Thanks to Kristin, we found the perfect companion who especially enjoys our frequent road trips to the beach! She's 11 months old now and the sweetest dog. Friendly with every living thing. You definitely know your job. I've given your name our many times and will continue to do so. Thanks again. To us, this search was more about finding a pet who would be a new member to our family, rather than just getting a dog. We wanted to work with a breeder who was truly focused on what was best for the dog, not just focused on making lots of money. She is a wealth of knowledge and an incredible resource for all things dog related. Any questions that we have had, she has answered promptly and caringly. The owner had bought one dog from Kristin, then two years later bought another from Kristin. That alone spoke volumes about the quality of Golden Gate Labradoodles. Playful, yet well mannered, curious, intelligent, approachable and social. We knew this was a breeder we needed to meet and with whom to hopefully find our new family member. When I walked in our front door with our surprise new puppy, Mabel, almost two years ago, our lives were forever changed. She hikes, swims, travels and adventures with us and loves every person and dog she meets. If you are already an owner or are on the waitlist, you know of our nearly strong private Facebook group of largely Northern California folks who are the "hive-mind" of this program. When I see people connecting about litter playdates or birthday parties; cooperative boarding arrangements; recommendations for local groomers, vets, trainers; and even providing informational and emotional support in occasional crisis events, I am overwhelmed with humble gratitude that I could play a part in bringing such a meaningful community together. Of course the dogs are amazing! But, the Golden Gate Labradoodles Community is truly the best thing about our program! Are you worried that you have a skinny Labradoodle? We take a look at the normal lower limits of Labradoodle weight, and what to do if your Labradoodle is looking too lean. What is a normal Labradoodle size? Or are they much smaller than their siblings from the same litter? First generation Labradoodles Most Labradoodles are a first generation f1 cross between one Labrador Retriever parent and one Standard Poodle parent. Female Labrador Retrievers weigh 55 — 70 pounds, and males weigh 65 — 80 pounds. Standard Poodles are slightly smaller — females weigh 40 to 50 pounds, and males weigh 60 to 70 pounds. When it comes to size, first generation Labradoodles can weigh as much as their heaviest parent, as little as their lightest parent, or anything in between. So female f1 Labs may weigh 40 pounds or 70 pounds, and males may weigh 60 pounds or 80 pounds. Even within a litter, one girl could be close to the bottom of the Labradoodle weight range, while here sister are all near the top. And likewise, one boy could be much smaller than his brothers. The bottom of the normal weight range for f1 Labradoodles is even lower if a Miniature Poodle is used as the sire dad. Miniature Poodles weigh just 10 to 15 pounds, so the potential weight range of grown up Mini Labradoodles is very wide, and the potential for very small individuals is much greater. Differences in body shape Another way healthy Labradoodles can look very different is their build, or silhouette. Labradors are relatively stocky dogs. Their body is usually slightly longer than it is tall — like a wide rectangle — and it should be powerfully muscled. On the other hand, Poodles ought to be equal — or square — in height and length. Their breed standard describes them as elegant and smoothly muscled. So stood next to one another, Poodles tend to look taller and leaner than Labradors of the same weight. In particular, their legs look much longer and slimmer. So healthy Labradoodle can have a more slender outline than you were expecting, if they greatly take after their Poodle parent in build. What about Australian Labradoodles? Australian Labradoodles are an attempt to standardize the Labradoodle into a pure breed in their own right. Rather than every dog being a first generation cross, Aussie Labradoodles come from breeding lines of other Australian Labradoodles. Australian Labradoodles come in three sizes: Standards, which weigh 45 to 65 pounds. Mediums, which weigh 30 to 45 pounds. And Miniatures, which weigh 15 to 30 pounds. So a healthy Labradoodle, depending on their parentage and the genes they were dealt, could weigh as little as 15 pounds, or as much as 80 pounds! Which leads us to the importance of body condition. Skinny Labradoodle Body Condition Body condition scores are a valuable way of assessing whether a Labradoodle is a healthy weight, or too skinny. Dogs at an ideal weight have a visible waist when viewed from above, and the underside of their tummy slopes upwards from their rib cage towards their tail. Their ribs should be easy to feel, with only a thin layer of fat covering them — similar to if you make a fist with one hand, and feel the place between your second and third knuckles wear rings usually sit with your other hand. An underweight Labradoodle has no fat covering their ribs, and some of their bones might even be visible through their skin. In particular their ribs, vertebrae, and hip bones. Underweight Labradoodles can also develop an extremely pronounced waist, and even start to lose muscle mass. During this time, it may seem like your Labradoodle just cannot put on weight as quickly as they are growing! And by the time they are two, their weight and overall look is likely to have been steady for several months. This is partly due to loss of muscle mass as they get older. They might also be eating less — because they have lower energy demands, or because old-age problems like tooth decay make it harder to eat. Is My Labradoodle Too Skinny? If they are underweight, they will help you work out the reason why. Very active or working dogs might simply need more calories. But, sometimes being underweight is a symptom of an underlying health problem. Some examples are: Problems with the digestive system Internal parasites. For example, my first gen labradoodle was unfortunate to get long skinny legs and a massive body, which rendered him unable to even stand for long periods despite keeping him as healthy as possible; yet other labradoodles are built much better from what I've seen of them. Do you agree this to be the case? Labradoodles are funny. Please note the disclaimer that these posts are about the breed from a veterinary viewpoint as seen in clinical practice and is not intended as a personal insult against your favorite breed. This is general advice for what is common, often with a scientific consensus but sometimes based on personal experiences, and is not a guarantee of what an individual animal is going to encounter in their life. That said, I have quite a lot of experience with Australian Labradoodles from one very large puppy farm, both farm dogs and adopted pets. They vary in coat type and color, with fleece coats and trendier colors attracting higher prices. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia are present in both parent breeds, and all breeding labradoodles should be screened. Ectopic Cilia became increasingly common in the puppies I saw. This condition causes extra eyelashes to grow on the inside of the eyelid, rubbing against the eyeball. This requires delicate surgery to remove the aberrant hair follicle, otherwise the dog is left with an eyelash permanently rubbing against its eye, causing ulcers and pain. Floppy ears plus non-shedding coat equals a strong predisposition for ear infections, especially yeast infections. The breed, especially the individuals I saw, had some interesting genetic pedigrees, and this most certainly reduced their genetic diversity. As expected, this is gradually increasing auto-immune conditions. Hypothyroidism is usually caused by auto-immune process attacking the thyroid gland, and this is more common that average in multi-generation labradoodles. Now, permit me a rant about genetics. Refusing to remove dogs that throw problem puppies from the gene pool and simply giving them a new partner will allow those problem genes to propagate in your population. We have decided we want to add another Whispering Winds puppy to the Wetzel family! I am ready to put down a payment, but just wondered if I need to fill out the application again? This is with her best friend next door neighbor, Kaia, who just moved away. Thanks so much! The big boy is Diesel, our 10 month old black German Shepard. She is such a sweet loving dog! We adore her!! She is becoming quite the boating dog! She has her own little bed in the fly bridge for when we are cruising and she loves to go kayaking, hopping right in to go for a ride! Thank you again so much for such a wonderful puppy!!! Gidget and I and our Mom are doing ok. Gidget and I share a recliner when we watch tv. I wanted to let you know that we continue to adore Penny. She will be eight years old this week. She now has a 6 year old brother and 3 year old sister both human. We've moved to Bainbridge Island, and she loves tagging along with us on all our outings to the beaches and trails. Hope you are doing well! She is wonderful and we are madly in love with her. It has been an easy adjustment welcoming her into our family. I think that made all the difference. She is very healthy and the vet had very good things to say about how well Whispering Winds had cared for her.We had some crying the first two nights but then she settled in really well and just goes right in at bedtime. We put it in the living room during the day and she goes in and out of it all day playing, napping. She really loves it. She is so cute, she walks alongside it when I move it from room to room. We live across the street from a park so we gets lots of people walking by wanting to stop and chat about her. She loves all her toys, but the wiffel ball is her favorite right now! She has met other dogs in the park and also friends. We want to be careful but also still socialize her. They had so much fun playing! We hope you are well and enjoying this next litter. Take care, Hi Gail. We are so enjoying our Ollie. He is so fun and loves Annie He has been with us for just over a year. I have attached pictures. Christine HI Gail: I wanted to forward you a couple of pictures of our beautiful, sweet, and occasionally ornery Lucy, who turned one yesterday. Jim, Anne and Lucy. Hi Gail. I hope you and yours are doing well and enjoying the summer. Ozzy formerly Ricky Bobby is now 8 years old and as spry as ever. We have a younger dog, 4 year old Troy, who chases him around and Ozzy, although he might never admit it, loves having him around. Checking in - we are having a fantastic summer with kona. She has met new furry family members, and though not a big fan of going swimming, loves getting on the paddle board and going for a ride. She discovered that she loved going from one paddle board to another so on our camping trip , the kids put 3 paddle boards together and kona happily walked back and forth between them. It was a blast. Thank you again, she is the best girl ever! Gail Completely delayed update but Poppy is doing great. Here is her latest picture post haircut. Thanks Monica Hope all is well. We Went and had a beach weekend! The pups and grandkids had a blast. She wanted you to see how beautiful she is with short hair! I love doing all the different toys they have out there for me to do. They hug on me and I just lean on them and give them kisses on their hands. I like working and making people happy, but most of all I love playing and doing zoomies. I just give them a big smile and lots of kisses. My moms and I hope you are doing well and having a super good summer. He had his first sandy beach experience today. We love having him adventure with us. Hope all is well with you! Katie Hi Gail, I hope this finds you well! Luka is officially home and loving his Texan life. He has learned to go up and down the stairs and bark. Loves his new mom my mom, Teresa and his sisters Mila and Frida. Here are a few pictures and videos- Cassandra Our beautiful Chloe turns 17 years old today! July 9, Hi Gail.Hope this finds you and Wayne happy and in good health! We're doing good and just celebrated Bill's 89th birthday!!! Darbi doesn't pose and wouldn't stay still for the photos, so it is just of Bill and Cubby! Hope you are easing into your retirement and enjoying a much more relaxed life!!!! Love you, Bill, Susanne, Darbigail and Cubby!!!! The dogs are so shaggy.Sorry I can't trim their muzzles so you can see their eyes.I worry about poking their eyes!!!! Moon turned 10 last May. She is the most special to me of all the dogs we have had. If I could clone her I probably would. I missed out on her puppy stage…. Great temperament.

This article covers everything you need to know as a german shepherd owner about GSD puppies and their sleep schedule. German Shepherd puppies sleep 15 — 20 hours a day. Yes, they sleep a lot. The bodies of GSD puppies go through a cycle of development in the first 12 months of being born, and hence the long nap time. Of course, understanding your puppies sleep schedule is crucial to taking good care of it. So that your puppy can grow healthy, and happy. In the beginning, the schedule is absolutely random. Once you have the schedule figured out, you can work around it to make things easier for yourself. When you first bring your puppy home, it might confuse you with the odd sleeping hours. Your pup might wake you up during the middle of the night, for bathroom breaks. A lot of german shepherd dog owners even get woken up 2 or 3 times. But, after a few weeks, your german shepherd puppy will get used to the schedule and not wake you up at night at all. Here are the causes behind the lengthy nap schedule of GSD puppies. Some are natural, while others can stir up concern for the owner. And a lot of this growth occurs during nap time. Most sources recommend 5 minutes of exercise for every month of age. So a 20 minute exercise session should be good for your 4 month old gsd puppy. However, the problem might be solved just by doing these. While others may prefer feeding them a home made diet. Raw diets are also becoming popular. It can cause problems later on. Your best bet is to check in with your vet, and ask for diet recommendations. So how much exercise should they do regularly? According to most of the sources, a 5 minute long walk at a time for every month of age should suffice. This means that if the puppy is 2 months old, then the exercise routine should be a 10 minute walk at a time. Here are the pointers that indicate when to stop exercising. Your puppy slows down. Your puppy starts panting. Your puppy starts laying on the ground. Age also plays a role in the intensity of workouts. Do not make it run excessively. Do not make it exercise on hard surfaces like sidewalks. Grass is the best area for your GSD puppy to exercise. Do not let it jump from the couch, furniture, or obstacles. Light fetch is also fine, after a few weeks. So you have to make sure that their brain stays engaged in their waking hours. Get your puppy their favourite toys. Take time training your puppy. Play a variety of games with your puppy. Get your puppy contraption toys that make the puppy do something with their paws, or sense of smell, instead of static toys. Give your puppy small healthy treats once they complete a task. Take Your Pup to the Vet This is the first option you should be considering if your puppy is sleeping too much or too less. Lack of sleep may cause your German Shepherd puppy to become aggressive , or even worse, not grow healthy. Give it a quiet and comfortable room to sleep. Let the puppy sleep whenever it wants or as much as it wants. No interruptions, just let it have its much deserved peace and quiet. Make Sure Your Puppy Has Comfortable Environment To Sleep You may not want your puppy to sleep on the bed, or the couch, due to various reasons like danger of falling or maybe hair fall. Buying a small dog bed or crate for your puppy is ideal. Make sure the crate or bed has soft material for your puppy to sleep. German shepherds are hardy animals. Just make sure their bed is soft and comfortable. Neither too hot nor too cold. Refrain your puppy from going into direct sunlight. Keep it in cool or shady areas. Make sure it has access to cool to cold water. Similarly, anything below 40 degree Fahrenheit or even 50 degree Fahrenheit is too cold for the puppy. If winter in your location hits hard, install heaters or a central heating system. Prepare cozy blankets for your puppy. Make sure your puppy is sleeping comfortably 15 — 20 hours a day. Have fun with your cute little puppy! Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Evening Puppy Exercise Spend a good 10—20 minutes playing with your pup outside or inside a couple of times during the evening. Play a game of tug or get them interested in chasing a flirt pole. Not only will this tire them out, but it will also give them some important physical exercise. Evening Brain Games and Training Use the commercials during your evening television shows to practice some basic training cues with your puppy. Not only does this work their brains and take the edge off, but it builds your relationship with your puppy and promotes a solid training foundation. A puppy's attention span is pretty short, so keep training sessions short and sweet and spread them out throughout the day. Ditch the regular food bowl and use a puzzle feeder for your puppy's evening meal. Below are some of my favorite food puzzles and interactive feeders. They're fun for dogs and tricky enough to engage their brains, yet not so difficult that a dog will become frustrated and give up. I recommend starting with the West Paw Toppl featured below for your puppy's first interactive feeder , as the opening is wider than a Kong toy — making it easier to de-stuff and for you to stuff and then clean afterward! As your puppy is successful with easier stuffed toys, they can move up to more difficult puzzles! You can see my puppy Fozzie Bear going to town on his Toppl toy during crate acclimation in this video: West Paw Toppl Interactive Feeder Available at: Available at: Difflife Snuffle Mat This snuffle mat provides a variety of hiding spots for dry food or treats, encouraging your dog to use their nose to find their meal and helping to slow down eating. The repetitive nature of these things is self-soothing to your puppy much how activities like knitting are for us. The snuffle mat I recommended above is a great way to work their nose indoors, or you can scatter their food in the grass of your yard for them to sniff out. Freeze your puppy's meal in their Toppl to make it last longer or use a licking mat smeared with a tiny bit of peanut butter or wet food for a good lick session. Hyper Pet IQ Treat Lick Mat Spread a bit of your dog's wet food, peanut butter, pureed pumpkin, or low-fat greek yogurt on this mat to provide a soothing enrichment activity. Take your puppy out for a bathroom break as late as possible — ideally, the last person to bed should also take your pup to their potty spot. This helps empty them out, decreasing the chance of them needing to go in the middle of the night. Keep this last potty break calm and boring. You don't want your sleepy puppy finding their second wind! On this note, consider your puppy's evening mealtime. You don't want to feed your puppy too late in the evening that they need to go 2 in the middle of the night. However, if you feed them too early, they may be hungry at bedtime and that can make them restless. One way to prevent late-night hunger is to use food puzzles with small "snack-sized" portions of food as their pre-bedtime enrichment. When it comes to leaving water in your puppy's crate, I always recommend free access to water at all times. Water is a "primary resource" — meaning your puppy needs it to survive. And there are some medical conditions that require access to drinking water at all times. But, if your puppy is waking up continually during the night because they need to urinate, speak with your veterinarian to first rule out medical reasons such as a urinary tract infection and then discuss with them whether restricting access to water before and during the night is a good choice for your puppy. Keeping a puppy potty log can really help you determine your puppy's natural potty schedule, which can help you adjust feeding times to increase longer sleep time at night. Download our free potty log template. PRO TIP: It can be helpful to set an alarm for yourself during the night to wake up and take your puppy for a quick potty break. It's all about being proactive — with an alarm, your puppy won't wake up feeling like they're ready to burst and start whining or crying in their crate. As they mature, your alarm can be set later and later as they can physically hold it longer. For more tips on potty training, check out "How to Potty Train a Puppy. The transition from sleeping in close proximity skin-to-skin.The reviews and photos people have submitted for this product are absolutely heartwarming, you really should check them out. I like to believe that he found having a familiar scent paired with the heartbeat sound and heat pack very comforting as he learned to sleep in his crate. He certainly loved to cuddle with it, and even after he transitioned to sleeping outside of the crate once he was old enough, he still carried the Snuggle Puppy around to use as a pillow, as you can see in the inset photo. The Snuggle Puppy can last for years. Even when your dog doesn't need it at night, just take out the batteries and heating pack and your dog will still carry it around! Another important feature of the Snuggle Puppy is that it's washable just don't forget to remove the batteries first! Another Preventive Vet staff review: "Mary Berry was having a difficult time sleeping alone in her crate — our guess was that she was missing her mom and littermates. She slept so soundly with the Snuggle Puppy, we would bring it with us when visiting friends so she had a comfortable piece of home to rest with. I highly recommend the Snuggle Puppy to help your new puppy sleep through the night! If your dog's idea of "snuggling" this toy involves mouthing, chewing, or disemboweling, be sure to take the toy away from them. Batteries are very dangerous for dogs if they are swallowed. Soothing Scents for Your Puppy Using dog-appeasing pheromones also called DAP can help your puppy feel secure and calm, as these mimic the pheromones their mother emits during nursing. Pheromones work for many puppies, but not all. But there's no downside to trying it out with your pup, so it's something I regularly recommend. The Adaptil pheromone diffuser covers a large space and lasts for 30 days before needing a refill. You might even try a spritz from an Adaptil spray on bedding shortly before placing your puppy in their crate. Just one or two spritzes are all you need! Adaptil Pheromone Diffuser. Final Thoughts When your German Shepherd is a young puppy, it needs a lot of sleep to get enough energy for physical and mental growth. When it is awake, it will be more active, exploring new things and experiencing new sensations after a good, comfortable, and secure sleep. The time of German Shepherd sleep routines varies depending on the age. When it is a puppy, it needs hours, but as an adult, your doggy may sleep for hours per day and feel great. The Shepherd deprived of good sleep can develop behavioral disorders and get sick easier. The most commonly asked questions about the German Shepherd puppy sleep schedule relate to its early age. Your puppy needs about 18 hours of sleep per day, and some young doggies may even need a bit more. So, hours per hour period is considered a norm. As your furry friend gets older, the sleeping time reduces. Your 4-month-old puppy may even sleep 11 hours per day and feel perfect. Meanwhile, adult dogs sleep for hours per hour period. You need to keep in mind that your pup will not sleep the whole night before its 6-month mark soundly. The reasons are missing the littermates and mother and feeling insecure surrounded by new smells and noises. However, the most important reason is the small size of its bladder that does not allow it to retain from potty for such a long time. So, it may start whining and crying if it wants to go potty. The latter issue is vital for potty training — you need to go out to potty times per night before your doggy reaches months old to avoid accidents. You may even need to wake up your puppy at night to do without unexpected occasions. Your little pup may also start crying at night for other reasons, for example, if it is scared or feels lonely or hungry. You can try to help it sleep better in several ways. First of all, ensure that your pet is tired enough before going to bed. Take it out for 5 minutes to walk during its first month and add the next 5 minutes for every month of its life. For example, your 4-month-old puppy can walk for 20 minutes. If your puppy is very young, let it sleep in your room when you first get it home. Put the crate beside your bed to comfort it easily during the night. You also need to offer your new pet familiar objects, for example, clothes or toys with the scent of its previous home. Arrange a comfortable sleeping place equipped with blankets, stuffed toys, and snacks. You may even play soothing music during bedtime, eliminating anxiety and preventing whining. Classical music is a good choice for this purpose. Comfortable bedding is essential. The space should not be large because they may attempt to do their business right where they are sleeping if they find a vacant spot. However, move the crate out of your bed when it gets older. Do it gradually, moving it farther and farther every night. Then, the time will come to take it away from your bedroom, and your puppy will feel comfortable with it. The difference between human and dog sleep cycles is dramatic. They are much shorter in dogs. Dogs have only two REM cycles at a time. They last 6 minutes. Dogs are polyphasic sleepers because they can also go to bed in the daytime. People are monophasic, sleeping hours at night. That is why while people spend their daytime working and alert, dogs need about 5 hours of rest per day. They do not necessarily sleep fast during this time. There has been a discussion on whether dogs can dream. Yes, dreaming can occur during the REM phase. Puppies may dream even more than adult dogs because they sleep more and their nervous system is not stable at all. So, they may dream about their daily activities, food, playing with you, and other things that are processed in their brain. When you notice that your pup moves its limbs as if running or murmurs something while sleeping, it is evidence of its dreaming. What do they mean? The most widely observed position is sleeping on the back. The reasons for this position are the following: Your pet feels entirely comfortable. This position provides complete relaxation. The pup feels safe and protected. Your dog trusts you if it exposes its vulnerable stomach to the outer world. It does not expect attacks from any enemies or predators. That is why canines rarely sleep on their backs in the wild. Your doggy wants to express submission. It does not mean challenging your authority or confronting other animals in the house. The German Shepherd may just want to feel colder. Its thick plush coat, especially if it is long-haired, does not allow it to cool down easily, so it lays on its back to let the air circulate around its body, over the belly, and paws. In this case, you may notice your dog lying on its back on the cold tile or even near the open window. German Shepherds also sleep in many other positions. The most popular of them include the following: Close to their owner. It is pretty pleasing when your doggy sleeps by your bed or is somehow close to you. Shepherds like to feel a part of a pack, so if they sleep like that, they feel more secure. Tightly curled up. This position allows a German Shepherd to maintain the heat efficiently. These dogs usually sleep like that in cold weather or if they feel something threatening to protect their neck and stomach against unexpected attacks. With the tail on their nose. A German Shepherd has a very sensitive nose, and it wants to protect it from rain, snow, or wind. It happens when your dog sleeps outdoors, especially in winter. On the side. This position allows the doggy to extend its muscles and joint as much as possible. It also means that the Shepherd feels comfortable and confident in this environment and does not expect any enemies or unwanted encounters. This position can also be observed if they sleep next to another animal — a cat or a dog — they consider their friends. On the belly. If your doggy feels comfortable, this position is uncommon. Moreover, it is neither comfortable nor relaxing. However, it can easily and quickly stand up and jump or run from it if it is needed. They mostly depend on their personality. The question of sleeping with your German Shepherd puppy is essential for many dog owners. The common advice is not to do that during the first months of your pup in your home. Instead, you can put its dog bed or crate next to your bed to soothe it quickly if it feels uncomfortable or scared. Moreover, your young doggy may have accidents at night, and you need to potty train it first. However, when your dog is an adult, you can do it, and it will bring a lot of positive moments to both of you. When your doggy is well-behaved and trained properly, you may get a lot of benefits from sleeping with it. They are the following: you will increase your comfort and security; your overall health condition can improve; the risk of sudden death will decrease; the cholesterol and triglyceride levels will go down; the blood pressure will become lower; this kind of sleeping can promote creativity; it will regulate your heartbeat rates; your memory will improve; you will wake up in a great mood due to the flow of oxytocin; you will feel absolutely protected and safe; the furry and cuddly friend will make you feel cozy and comfortable; the immunity will boost. Of course, close and continuous contact with animals can provoke allergic reactions. However, recent research shows that children who sleep with their pets are less likely to develop any allergies when they grow up. You may wonder why your doggy sleeps so much or has just changed its sleeping habits dramatically. Generally, an adult German Shepherd sleeps hours per day, but puppies and senior dogs sleep longer, which is normal. You can consider different causes if your pup sleeps too much and decide what you can do after talking to your vet. Your doggy needs this time to develop or restore its brain, central nervous system, immune system, and muscles. It uses so much energy during the day that it needs to compensate for it while sleeping. However, if your grown-up German Shepherd sleeps more than 14 hours and is apathetic all the other time, you may start to be concerned and take your pup to the vet. Excess heat. German Shepherds are bred to feel comfortable in colder environments. That is why they have double-layered coats. When the weather is very hot, they become sleepy to cool down. Just give it access to shade and cool areas and provide it with good amounts of water during the day. Never let it stay in direct sunlight. Your pup does not feel well. If your German Shepherd started sleeping more for no reason, it might be a sign of some health issues. So, you need to have it checked by the vet immediately. Your doggy is bored. German Shepherds are working dogs with a lot of energy and drive. You should exercise your pet a lot. At least one hour of intense exercise per day is vital. However, be careful not to overexercise your pup when it is little. Add 5 minutes of walking and training per every month of its age, or you can damage its bones and joints. Pick out an appropriate diet. Poor diet may be a cause of extensive sleeping. Talk to your vet to choose the diet your Shepherd needs, or opt for one meant specifically for German Shepherds. Age is a crucial factor. You know now that little puppies need a lot of sleep, and it is normal when your fluffy cub sleeps hours per day. The same is applicable to senior dogs. Older animals need more sleep to restore their muscles and brain activity. Moreover, they get tired easily and need a lot of rest. To make your pup sleep according to its age and environment, you may need to make some changes and deal with different factors. Consider the weather conditions too. If your pup sleeps more when it is cold or hot outside, it is also a normal reaction to temperature changes. If it gets to sleep immediately after feeding , you may need to adjust the diet a bit. If not, make some changes. Always check whether it has constant access to fresh water. Underhydration can be one of the reasons for a long sleep. Of course, when you notice abrupt changes, you must take your pet to the veterinarian. Long sleeping time may be the first sign of some unpleasant health disorders. Little puppies can sleep hours per day, while adult dogs usually need hours of sleep round-the-clock. If your German Shepherd starts sleeping too much, it may be a sign of a minor illness. The excess sleeping may also be a result of heat, boredom, or a poor diet. Older German Shepherds can also start sleeping a lot. Why does my German Shepherd sleep on its back? When your dog sleeps on its back, it always looks cute. The reasons for it can be different, but the main one is that it feels comfortable and absolutely trusts you. It can also show submission in this way, or it is too hot, and your doggy wants to cool down. Why is my German Shepherd breathing so fast while sleeping? Breathing faster means that your doggy is in its REM phase of sleep, which is accompanied by a high amount of brain activity. So, your pup needs more energy and starts breathing faster to get an additional amount of oxygen for the brain. Breathing fast helps it transfer this oxygen from the lungs to the bloodstream, converting it into energy. How many hours does a German Shepherd sleep? The number of hours your German Shepherd pup can sleep is pretty individual. There are no strict standards. Little puppies sleep hours daily, while adult dogs reduce this number to .Senior dogs can sleep more — hours is normal. Ill doggies can sleep most time because sleeping helps them recover. Final Thoughts Remember that comfortable and safe German Shepherd sleeping is key to its healthy and happy life. All sleeping habits are pretty individual. If your German Shepherd sleeps well, you will enjoy long years together. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Feed your GSD puppy a nice healthy dinner along with some fresh water to drink. Make him comfortable with a nice warm blanket and a chew toy. I know it seems like a lot and you may not have time every day to follow this type of sleep schedule. This is best case scenario. Adjust accordingly based on your lifestyle. Encourage him to rest if he seems tired. If you notice him waking up from a nap, take him outside immediately to go potty. Make sure he has a quiet place to sleep undisturbed and away from the action, especially if you have children. Teach him to sleep in his crate when you can. You can also put a little dog bed in another room for peace and refuge. Routine is key for creating sleep patterns. Your puppy will learn to go to bed when you do. Crate your puppy preferably using an adjustable partition leaving him just enough room to stand up and turn around. This will help him sleep and lessen the chance of him going potty at night. Keep him crated in your room if need be. Being close to you may help him sleep at night. Make his crate nice and cozy with a warm blanket or two on the bottom. Forget the bed as he will probably destroy it. Instead give him a couple of his favorite chew toys. Prepare for your puppy to wake up sometimes throughout the night. There is a reason puppies sleep most of the day away. The body and brain use this downtime to develop and grow. This includes their central nervous system and immune system which they need to fight off sickness and disease. Similar to humans, a lack of sleep can lead to a weakened immune system which means they are more prone to sickness or disease. German Shepherds grow at a rapid pace for the first year of their life. This means that sleep is even more crucial during this time period. Fun Fact: Dogs dream just like humans. In Closing: Sleep is vital for your German Shepherd puppy so make sure they are getting enough. There may be some sleepless nights ahead of you, especially if the crate is in your bedroom. But things will get easier the more they mature. Remember as they grow and get older, the amount of sleep they require will decline. Once they are a full-grown adult, they will sleep for about 12 to 14 hours. Stick to a consistent schedule and make sure they have a quiet place to retreat. Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think! Do you own a German Shepherd puppy? If so, what is their sleep schedule? Do you have any tips for potential owners that may help? Let us know! We would love to hear about your personal story! Share this:. As mentioned, German Shepherd puppies have short bursts of energy followed by long, restful naps. When playing or on a walk, it may seem like your puppy has a limitless store of excitement. Once they wear out, however, they tend to fall into a deep sleep—and may even snore! On average, a German Shepherd puppy will sleep between 15 and 20 hours each day. During growth periods, they may only get up to eat or go for a walk. Once fully grown, a German Shepherd will sleep around 12 or 14 hours a day. German Shepherds will take naps throughout the day, then sleep while their human sleeps for 6 or 8 hours. You can ensure your German Shepherd gets adequate exercise by taking it for long walks or hikes, playing fetch, or engaging it with agility workouts and puzzle toys. German Shepherds are intelligent dogs and need mental and physical stimulation for health and happiness. German Shepherds are naturally alert and protective , making them ideal for farm, police, military, and guard work. If you live in a busy area, you may want to provide your German Shepherd with a dark, quiet room to sleep in. If you use a crate or kennel, you can drape a blanket over it to shut out some light and sound for restful sleep. This is especially helpful with young puppies that may experience separation anxiety. Cars, buzzing insects, appliances, televisions, and cell phones can all make noises that put your dog on alert. German Shepherds usually live between 9 and 13 years. During this stage, your German Shepherd may sleep a bit more than the expected 12 or 14 hours a day, just like an older human. Along with the change in sleep patterns, your senior German Shepherd may show some graying around the eyes and muzzle, less interest in playing, and less energy for walks and hikes. If your German Shepherd is sleeping more than 14 hours as an adult, should you be worried? In some cases, longer sleep or more frequent sleep could indicate that your dog is experiencing a minor illness. If your German Shepherd is sleeping excessively for several weeks, however, you may want to take it to the vet for a checkup. Conditions like diabetes , hypothyroidism , Lyme disease , and arthritis can lead to increased sleep and may require treatment. Related Reads:. They need to go to the toilet How to stop a german shepherd puppy crying at night? There are many different reasons that your pup may be crying at night. Fortunately, there are also lots of ways to help him sleep better at night. Here are a few of the ways you can stop your german shepherd puppy from crying at night: Exercise to tire your German Shepherd puppy out: Your puppy should be taken out for 5 minutes for however many months old they are. For example, a 3-month-old puppy would be taken out for 15 minutes. Make sure you tire them out enough to help them sleep better at night. Let your German Shepherd puppy outside before bed: Make sure you let your puppy outside to relieve himself before putting him to bed. Surround your German Shepherd puppy with familiar objects: Bring clothing with the scent of the home or the breeder next to him while he sleeps. This will help give him something familiar and help him ease into the transition to his new home. Play soothing music: Playing classical music before and during bedtime can help alleviate whining and anxiety as well as drown out other noise or unfamiliar sounds that may upset or rouse your puppy. The average dog sleeps for only 45 minutes at a time, while human sleep cycles are much longer, lasting 70 to minutes. Dogs can only experience two sleep cycles during that time period. Dogs also differ from humans in that they are polyphasic sleepers, which means they sleep on and off throughout the day. Humans, on the other hand, are monophasic sleepers. Most humans receive their 7 to 9 hours of sleep all at once. While humans spend most of their waking hours awake and alert, dogs dedicate up to 5 hours of their day to simply resting. Dogs who rest more during the day tend to seem happier and more relaxed. Do dogs dream and what about? Dreaming occurs mainly during this REM phase of sleep. And dogs do cycle through REM during their sleep. So its make sense to believe that dog do dream. A puppy will spend more time in dream sleep than an adult dog as they fall asleep more often. So just what are our furry friends dreaming about? Anything your dog does during the day is being processed while they sleep and relived in their dream. This can be observed by their twitching whiskers, the whimpering, and the running paws while they are sleeping. Chances are that your dog may also be dreaming about you if you spend enough quality time interacting with them. They will be dreaming about your play session, walks, and cuddle time together. Where should my German Shepherd puppy sleep? German Shepherd puppies should sleep inside with comfortable beddings. This is because if your puppy has too much space to roam, it will be harder to get them potty trained as they will just find a spot to do their business away from where they are sleeping. You can place the crate beside your bed or in an area close to you. In this way, your new furry friend can smell you. And it gives him a sense of security. Should I sleep with my German Shepherd puppy? You should not sleep with your German Shepherd puppy during the first few months home. Yet you can let your pup sleep beside you in a crate or a dog bed. Your puppy needs to get used to a regular schedule, work on their independence, and see you as the dominant figure. Once your GSD has become an adult months-old to 2-year-old , it will be fine for you to sleep with him. Can I let my German Shepherd puppy sleep with me? A new dog may need some time to adjust before they are ready to sleep in your bed. If they show interest in sleeping with you and are well-behaved , you can always let them on the bed later on down the road. What are the benefits of sleeping with dogs? If you are still reading, chances are you might like to sleep with your dog at night. Pets offer comfort and security, but they may affect sleep quality or trigger allergies for some people. Petting dogs in particular has proved to reduce blood pressure and heart rate. If touching your pet is part of the key to gaining health benefits, cuddling up together at night is only to make it better. Sleeping with dogs promotes creativity Studies have shown that when dogs are with their owners their heartbeats sync up. This experience promotes theta brainwaves which can be seen in connection with creativity, intuition, daydreaming, and fantasizing and is a repository for memories, emotions, sensations. Theta waves are strong during internal focus, meditation, prayer, and spiritual awareness. Sleeping with dogs boost your mood Studies have found that people who spend time with dogs reported fewer depressive symptoms. Not only is it fun to be with your furry friends, it also helps us relax and increases our flow of oxytocin, the love chemical. Sleeping with dogs makes you feel safe Think about it — your GSD is hard-wired to protect. Many people and having the dog protecting them helps them feel more secure and sleep more soundly. Sleeping with dogs is comfortable That furry, cuddly animal is likely to love lying with you just as much as you enjoy laying with them. The level of comfort a dog brings to the bed helps put you at ease and makes you feel cozy. Sleeping with dogs promote immunity Many people have hygienic concerns when it comes to sleeping with their dogs. However, one study found that infants who slept with their pets were less likely to develop allergies later on in life. After all, your new furry friend will sleep for at least 15 hours per day during their short lives. And the better they sleep, the healthier and happier they are. Further reading. Puppies are similar to babies, they eat, poop, play and sleep. This article will answer those questions and give you some insight into German Shepherd puppy sleeping habits. Yes, German Shepherd puppies sleep a lot. A GSD pup will normally sleep upwards of 18 to 20 hours a day. They are usually asleep unless you are engaging with them in some way. It is normal for German Shepherd puppies to sleep up to 20 hours a day. GSD puppies sleep so much because their bodies are still developing and growing fast so they need to sleep to fuel that process. As they get older, they will sleep a little less. German Shepherd puppies should sleep in a crate when really young and not yet trained. This is because if your puppy has too much space to roam, it will be harder to get them potty trained as they will just find a spot to do their business away from where they are sleeping. Some of the best crates for German Shepherd puppies are ones that can grow with your pup and come with a divider. This is not to say your pup has be crated forever, think of this as a tool to help them get house-trained faster and to keep them safe. As mentioned above, it is too easy for them to find a spot to do their business if they have free access to the whole room at night. However, once your puppy knows how to wake you up for their bathroom break, it is really a personal decision as to whether you want your pup to sleep in your bed. German Shepherd Puppy Sleeping Habits As mentioned above, German Shepherd puppies will usually sleep between 18 and 20 hours a day, which is totally normal. It is also normal for a puppy to not be able to sleep through the night. Just like newborn babies need to get on a schedule so does your new puppy. When my GSD puppy first came home, she usually woke me up two or three times each night for potty breaks. Final Thoughts German Shepherd puppies sleep a lot because their bodies are developing and going through a lot of growth when they are really young. It is normal for a puppy to only be awake for 6 hours a day when you first bring them home. Unless they are playing with toys , eating, drinking, or going outside, they will probably be sleeping. If you feel like your GSD puppy is sleeping too much you can check with your vet to make sure all is ok just for peace of mind. They are the second most popular breed in America. German Shepherds are an active breed that requires extensive physical and mental training to stay engaged. Their bites have lbs of force, which is close to 3 times the force of a human bite. Make sure train to your pup not to bite unless the person is an intruder. A German Shepherd puppy can adopt the same routine as a human baby. Incorporate enough time throughout the day for a rotating schedule of eating, potty breaks, playing, and sleeping. Providing a balanced and engaging schedule for your puppy will get him or her more able to become accustomed to sleep training. Your new puppy will be getting used to their new home with you and adjusting to your sleep schedule as well. When the pup is not playing, eating, or taking potty breaks, he or she may squeeze in a day time nap. Their bladders are not fully developed yet, so they are always in need of a potty break. Be prepared for your puppy to wake you up in the middle of the night the first few weeks of bringing him or her home for midnight potty breaks. If you have multiple adults in the house, create a rotating schedule of who will take out the dog for a midnight potty break based on the day of the week. If you have yourself and two others in your home, try a schedule like this: You: Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday Significant other, roommate, or another family member: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday Your older child or teenager: Saturday nights only What Are Other Reasons for Sleeping a Lot? There are other contributing factors as to why your German Shepherd puppy is sleeping a lot. When they are just months old, their normal sleep schedule will be for normal growth and development of their brain, immune system, and joints. Keep an eye on the other factors that could be reasons as to why he or she is sleeping more and adjust their environment accordingly. Poor diet, excessive exercise, sickness, heat, and boredom could be other reasons for your puppy sleeping more than usual. If your pup is not eating the right nutritious food, he or she could become sleepier throughout the day. Your pup should eat protein-rich nutritious dog food specially formulated for German Shepherds. According to Pet Care Rx , the age, activity, and general health of your pup will decide how much calories it needs throughout the day which is anywhere from to per day. Pet Care Rx suggests giving your pup one of the following for a balanced diet. Young puppies are still in the process of developing their bones and joints. Excessive exercise will only tire your German Shepherd puppy out faster and repeated instances of too much exercise could mess up their sleep schedule. The German Shepherd Shop recommends the following exercises to help your pup stay healthy. Limit tug of war activities to only minutes at a time. Take your puppy on small walks around the block for optimal exercise. Play fetch for about 5 minutes at a time which could be a good throws. Encourage normal puppy free play with their toys at their leisure. German Shepherd Shop discourages doing the following high-impact exercises with your pup. Prolonged games of fetch or tug of war Long hikes or walks Agility training that is not aged appropriately for your pup Sickness If your German Shepherd puppy is sick, he or she may sleep more to fight off the bad bacteria and viruses. If your puppy is acting differently and not as active as usual, take note of this for repeated occurrences. A common German Shepherd sickness is hip dysplasia which could lead to arthritis because of the continuous inflammation in the hips. Degenerative myelopathy, bloating, blood disorders, and epilepsy are also common health issues in German Shepherds. If your German Shepherd puppy continues to act abnormally than how he or usually behaves, schedule a visit with the veterinarian to be on the safe side. This breed naturally thrives better in colder climates and a high amount of heat outside or inside the house can cause more sleepiness. In the summer, be sure the air conditioner is at a comfortable temperature so your puppy feels comfortable. Consider placing a waterproof dog mat or bed and a dog bowl of water at this area for your pup to stay properly cool and hydrated. If your puppy loves the snow during winter, only give him or her a few minutes of snowy playtime so they do not get hypothermia. Your Pup is Bored Naturally, boredom leads to sleeping more. Refer to German Shepherd Corner for some of the best toys for German Shepherds to get ideas of what toys to get for your curious pup. Purchase a few toys as a start and observe your pup. Does he or she like to chew, tug, or fetch more? Maybe get one toy each that encourages these activities and see which toy your German Shepherd puppy loves most. Once you have figured that out, you can stock up on their favorite toy for when the original one becomes worn out. Related Posts.