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We have answers. The only thing you have to do is browse some of the pre-selected breeders below to find a litter or individual Fresno German Shepherd for sale that you are interested in. The last step when you work with Uptown is introducing your new companion to your home. There is a high likelihood that you will! Backyard breeders are everywhere and they can be hard to recognize if all you have to judge them by is a well-made website. A puppy mill is a factory like breeding facility where popular breeds are forced to reproduce more often than they naturally would which can cause stress and eventually health issues down the line. Do German Shepherd puppies in Fresno require a lot of exercise? Fresno German Shepherd puppies for sale will not require a lot of exercise at first, but as they grow older these dogs will start to build up more and more energy and also grow to be quite large. Before you schedule a meeting with one of the many vetted breeders below through Uptown Puppies you should be prepared to play and run around outside with your new dog. What can I expect when I own a new German Shepherd puppy? You should be fully prepared to awake next to a friendly, energetic and loving puppy each and every morning. Will Uptown Puppies recommend a specific type of food for my puppy? We will always recommend that if you notice potential food allergies or symptoms that could be related to your pups food that you contact a vet immediately. There are a lot of dangers that come with purchasing a new dog from a puppy mill or backyard breeder which is why at Uptown we steer our customers clear of the danger and potential costly health risks! Instead our vetting team likes to focus on standardized puppy treatment, sanitary facilities and breeders who offer a more boutique experience for the end consumer. Which kinds of breeds are best for families? German Shepherds can be loving, playful and protective when they need to be, which is perfect for a couple with a growing family of kids, pets and relatives! What is a backyard breeder? A backyard breeder is a term that is commonly used in the canine breeding world to describe a business that has created a breeding facility in their residence or even a spare corner of a backyard. They are now ready to go to their forev. We are a c 3 non-profit rescue based in Northern California and the Sacramento Valley. Below are our newest added German Pinschers available for adoption in Fresno, California. Seller's profile All seller items 1 Be careful! Never pay down a deposit in a bank account until you have met the seller, seen signed a purchase agreement. Adopt a rescue dog through PetCurious. Plott Hound Puppies for Sale. Why buy a German Pinscher puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of German Pinscher puppies who need a home. I have 3 German Shepherd mix dogs. To see more adoptable Bedlington Terriers in Fresno, California, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! We ensure each dog is highly socialized, family-raised, and genetically tested. Old English Sheepdog Puppies for Sale. There are often many great Gordon Setters for adoption at local animal shelters or rescues. We are a family owned and operated, Colorado state licensed, AKC registered, home kennel in beautiful Conifer, Colorado. Golden State German Shepherd Rescue is a c 3 non-profit based in the Central Valley of Northern California Our mission is to find loving new homes for German Shepherd Dogs in need of a second chance and to educate the public about this highly intelligent and versatile breed. Fresno, California, United States xxxx xxxx. Say hello to these darling F1B Mini Goldendoodle puppies that can't wait to spoil you with love and attention. Both parents pure bred German s. When you purchase from us you can be assured of the highest quality and good temperament. Meet Azami! Azami A is a 2 year old, female, brown and black, German Shepherd blend. Call my parents to schedule a play date today! Female Black German Shepherd. She checked out just fine on her first vet visit. German Shepherd Puppy for Sale. Their brains, size, and loyalty make them ideal police and service dogs, but they also make great friends. German Shepherd Puppies For Sale. I'll arrive up to date on all shots and dewormers, vet checked, microchipped, and with a 1 year genetic health guarantee for an easy and happy adoption. To see more adoptable German Pinschers in Fresno, California, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. These curly cuties are full of life and will make the perfect addition to any family. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Fresno, CA from trusted …. Our Shepherds are raised in a mountain setting where they are exposed to weather, wildlife and terrain like no other place on earth. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color. Azami is a big girl with a loving heart, she is a bit shy in the kennels. German Pinscher puppies and dogs in Fresno, California. Female 8 Month Black German Shepherd. Page 6: German Shepherds for Sale in Fresno. Search for an Old English Sheepdog puppy or dog. German Shepherd california, fresno. ZIP or Canadian postal code in. These pups are in Fresno, California too! Below are our newest added Bluetick Coonhounds available for adoption in Fresno, California. Below are our newest added Bedlington Terriers available for adoption in Fresno, California. Browse photos and descriptions of of California German Shepherd Dog puppies of many breeds available right now! Tools 1 week ago on Adopt-a-Pet. Find your puppy for sale in Fresno, CA. German Shepherd puppies for sell. German Shepherds for Sale in Fresno. Their impeccable training allows them to be not only a superb guard or protection dog but also the perfect addition to any family. Healthy with shots and dewormer record up to date. We provide a gal bag of food that she is used to and also probiotics for a better transition to her new home. Located high in the Rockies at over ft. German Shepherd Puppies for sale in Fresno, California. Rocky Mountain German Shepherds. Our dogs are from the highest quality imported German bloodlines and are bred for superior temperament, beautiful conformation, excellent health, and high levels of trainability. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since .Mom is 17 inches tall and 40lbs, black bi with beautiful blue eyes and a very calm sweet temperament. White German Shepherd Puppies california, fresno. If you take your new German Shepherd on walks and trips to the grocery store as puppies you'll be ahead of the exercise curve! Feel free to contact us to schedule a visit or discuss any of our fine dogs. Search for german shepherd dog rescue dogs for adoption near Fresno, California. Transportation to Fresno, CA available. Bedlington Terrier Puppies for Sale. German Shepherd Dogs are the perfect dog to own. Americanlisted has classifieds in Fresno, California for dogs and cats. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Fresno, CA from trusted breeders. All of our pups are socialized and family raised in our home. Page 2: German Shepherds for Sale in Fresno. Find a German Shepherd Dog for adoption at dog rescues or shelters near Fresno. Fresno German Shepherd puppies for sale will not require a lot of exercise at first, but as they grow older these dogs will start to build up more and more energy and also grow to. We believe that it is not just nature but nurture as well that brings out the best in the German Shepherd working lines. Our kennels are located in sunny Southern California. Lahna is A beautiful an adorable little girl. Azami is a big girl with a loving heart, she is a bit shy in the kennels and once you first meet her but she warms up quickly. She will also have her first vaccination. I currently have 5 male German shepherd puppies available for sale. German Shepherd Dog puppies and dogs in Fresno, California. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. German Pinscher Puppies for Sale. Here are some of our current and recently adopted dogs in our program:. Needs love and plenty of area to roam. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find dogs for sale outside that price range. Rocky Mountain German Shepherds We provide German Shepherd puppies, young adults, trained adults, import service, and all breed dog training. German Shepherd For Sale in Fresno .German Shepherd puppies for sale in Fresno, CA from trusted. Save this search and we'll notify you when they are. As a Hobby Breeder we selectively breed litters of German Shepherds per year and maintain a wait list for our puppies. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Pets and Animals Fresno. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale. Fresno German Shepherd puppies for sale will not require a lot of exercise at first, but as they grow older these dogs will start to build up more and more energy and also grow to be quite large. German Pinscher. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Visalia, CA German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Find your puppy for sale in Fresno, CA Puppies. German Shepherds for Sale in Omaha. These spacious kennels provide a great environment for our dogs. Click below to find a shelter or rescue in your area! Find an Animal Shelter. German Shepherd Puppies for Sale near me. They will be dewormed and will have their first parvo shot at 8 weeks. To see more adoptable Bluetick Coonhounds in Fresno, California, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! German shepherd!!! One of the biggest reasons that you will want to consider getting German shepherd puppies Fresno Ca is because the city is a popular place for adoptions. The young puppy will receive a bath in its eyes, is very afraid of every drop of water dumped on him, and often tries to climb out of the tub. Life is very easy for this little puppy as there are really no other dogs living here. You just need to make sure that you find a good breeder. He should be able to show you pictures of his dog. This breed originated in Germany and is now used all over Europe. It was considered a rare species and was killed off many years ago. There are numerous websites with lists of local breeders. German Shepherd puppies can be found at various dog shows and through German Shepherd Rescue. Breeders of German Shepherds can be contacted via e-mail or phone. Breeders will gladly offer to ship their puppies nationwide. The German Shepherd puppy you choose must have a good temperament. They are very energetic dogs. They are very affectionate, loyal, and playful and need lots of attention and exercise. You need to make sure that your German Shepherd puppy comes from a healthy family, that it has been socialized well and it should have good genes. Online websites sometimes list puppies in the family group or the breed group that is preferred by the judge. Most German Shepherd breeders that sell puppies online also provide details about their breeding facilities. Including the amount of space they offer and whether they have a vet on site. German Shepherd Puppies: The German Shepherd puppies you choose should have solid parents, otherwise they will develop health problems. You can often find puppies for sale from breeders in the network. Breeders often have puppies coming from a breeder near you. You may want to join a group for your German Shepherd puppy, if possible. German Shepherd Puppies are great pets for the right person. German Shepherd Puppies Fresno Ca. If you are near an animal shelter, you might want to consider adopting a puppy from them. There are many animal shelters in all areas of the United States. Some cities have more German Shepherd Puppies than others. The largest dog shelter in the city of Fresno has plenty of German Shepherd Puppies for adoption. German Shepherd Puppies: The German Shepherd puppy that you choose should have a good temperament and be a healthy, happy puppy. The German Shepherd puppy you choose should have a long coat since they do get very dirty. Grooming is very important. There are many quality German Shepherd breeders in and around the metro area of Texas. Contact them and ask for advice and information. German Shepherd Puppies: If you love dogs and barbecue, then you definitely want to consider purchasing a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder near you. Lauderdale area is one of the best places to purchase a puppy. The puppy will come from a reputable family line and will have been socialized from a young age. He will fit right in with his new family. They have classes for children and adults on caring for the animals and running a show in Idaho. This will give the child a hands-on experience and also show them how responsible pet ownership can be. They may decide to buy a German Shepherd later on and show off their talents at the amateur level. German Shepherd Puppies: Owning a German Shepherd will give you many great memories, and they make wonderful family pets. Even though they are not as big as some of the other breeds of dogs, they still have the same stamina as any other dog. They are very intelligent and make great pets and companions. They are great for families with children as they are very gentle with small children. German Shepherd Puppies: There is a large amount of spaying and neutering facilities in Texas, so if you live in an apartment, this is not a problem. Most veterinarians in the county of orange offer free spaying and neutering if you meet their requirements. There are also veterinarians in the Hollywood area that have private dog apartments for sale. You should contact the vet to find out more information about them. With the area being so dry and heat is very much a factor here, most breeders will advertise in newspapers and over the Internet. Adopting a German Shepherd puppy in Fresno is not at all difficult. You can adopt a puppy as small as three weeks old if you so desire. Or you can adopt an older dog that is fully grown and has been trained to do what comes naturally. Some dogs will be pedigreed to show at dog shows while some dogs may only be fully housebroken. The German Shepherd puppies available in Fresno are usually purebred. That means breeding them to be purebred German Shepherd is what their dam was bred to do and not what their owners were raised to do. German Shepherd puppies are very intelligent dogs with a very pleasant temperament. They are very loyal and make wonderful pets and even great companions for elderly people. The only thing that you have to worry about when it comes to adopting a German shepherd puppy in Fresno is the cost of the vet bills if they occur. There is a minimal cost for vaccinations but you can only have two dogs at a time. So if you are going to adopt one, make sure you are going to adopt both. If you are going to get a puppy from a professional breeder, you can be fairly certain that the puppy you are getting is purebred. You will want to make sure that the dam has gotten all of her shots and that the sire has also had all of his necessary shots. If she has been good with the dogs in her last litter then you will want to avoid her dogs and go with someone who has not been as good. Many new puppy owners prefer to get their dogs from German shepherds because they are easier to train and more manageable. The German shepherd puppies that you find at the puppy mills are typically there because they were bred for a purpose and do not simply look pretty. You will have to pay careful attention to the parents of your puppy to make sure that they are in good health otherwise they will not be able to give you any good health problems later down the road. Also, look for puppies that are not scarred or covered in fleas. Sometimes the puppies will be covered in fleas but after they have been spayed or neutered they will no longer be able to come back and bite you. When you begin looking for German shepherd puppies for sale in Fresno, CA you should also keep in mind that they are going to cost a little bit more than another breed of puppies. There is no reason to think that you cannot afford a puppy when you know that you can pay a little bit more for one. Most professional breeders will try to help you find a puppy at the best price possible. They are not trying to make money from you, they are just doing what is best for the dog. Make sure that you take all of this into consideration when you are looking for the right puppy for you. A lot of people are looking to get these dogs and most professional breeders have their dogs live at the facility when they are doing all of their adoptions. The more dogs that your professional breeder has available the more likely it is that they will be able to help you find a puppy. This is a great way to get a puppy without all of the typical expenses that come along with getting a new dog. It is a good idea to check out all of the different professional breeders that are available to you so that you can choose the best match for you. The most important thing is that you make sure that you are getting a German shepherd puppy that is healthy. A lot of times the breeders that are offering German Shepherds for sale in Fresno are just as concerned with the health of the dogs as you are. This is a great way to go if you are looking to get a healthy dog. You can also ask professional breeders for advice on finding a dog that is the right size for you. This is something that can only happen if you spend some time talking to the breeders that are selling the German Shepherds for sale in Fresno. Share this:.

Puppies with allergies Physical Traits That Will Impact Your Choice Having a very short muzzle can present some challenges with lifting up and munching on food. English Bulldogs can also struggle sometimes with swallowing their meals, and with taking in sufficient oxygen while they are busy eating. Bulldog puppies often also have teeth that are overly crowded together in their smaller mouths. Rounded, triangular or other unique-shaped kibble are ideal, avoid the traditional large square bits. And if your English Bulldog puppy is still having a tough time with chewing, mix dry kibble with some wet puppy food. Portion sizes Begin by following the amounts listed on the packaging. How often to feed English Bulldog puppies Little and often is always the best approach when feeding a puppy. I start my puppies off with four meals a day, spread evenly over the daylight hours. Best dried food for English Bulldog puppies These three brands make some of the best food for English Bulldog puppies. You will notice each food is enriched with special nutrients, minerals and vitamins. Those that your English Bulldog puppy needs to develop healthily in every way. Royal Canin Bulldog Puppy dry dog food Royal Canin creates tailored recipes for the unique needs of different puppy and dog breeds. This has the same unique S-shaped kibble. Best canned food for English Bulldog puppies The best food for English Bulldog puppy can end up being a combination of dry puppy food mixed with a bit of wet puppy food. It also makes learning how to grab and chew the dry kibble just a bit easier! For both puppies and adult dogs, wet food can be more palatable than dry kibble. It is designed in a complete and balanced nutrition puppy formula. A great choice to mix with the Purina Pro Plan dry kibble, to help your English Bulldog puppy learn how to grasp and chew solid food! There are no artificial ingredients or by-products in this wet food either. Packed with vitamins, lutein, taurine and fish oils, your English Bulldog puppy will have the nutritional support to make the extra work of eating worth it. This is a great choice to mix with Royal Canin Bulldog puppy dry food for a little extra mealtime incentive! Best food for English Bulldog puppies with food allergies Treating food allergies in puppies often requires two phases: allergy testing and a limited ingredient diet. One of the known triggers for food allergies in dogs is grain. So the best puppy food for Bulldogs who have food allergies is often a grain-free diet. Plus DHA and plenty of vitamins and minerals to help with digestive support and immune system health. The kibble is a unique triangle shape which can be easier for your puppy to grab hold of and pick up. Best food for English Bulldog puppies with sensitive stomachs Finding the best dog food for English Bulldog puppies can sometimes be a challenge because of their unique anatomy. This can sometimes lead to digestive disruption. A limited ingredient diet may ease tummy upset, gas, diarrhea and other symptoms of a sensitive stomach. There is very minimal processing and no artificial additives of any kind. The kibble is both round and rectangular, offering a nice mix of shapes to help your English Bulldog puppy grasp it more easily. There is no corn or beef, both of which can be a source of digestive upset in puppies. This limited ingredient puppy food comes in two recipes: chicken and oats or lamb and rice. Both recipes include plenty of glucosamine and chondroitin, calcium and phosphorus. As well as vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, bones and immune system. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Although certain health issues that Bulldogs may experience are congenital and beyond our control, others can be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet. Some of the most common health issues faced by Bulldog include the following: Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Bulldogs. This occurs when the immune system of some dogs identifies a specific protein, carbohydrate, or other ingredients in their diet as foreign and reacts to it as if it were a harmful substance. Food allergies in Bulldogs may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. However, intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. We highly recommend conducting an at-home dog food allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BAS. This condition occurs in Bulldogs and other animals with shortened facial features that result in a pushed-in nose. Bulldogs with BAS may experience difficulty breathing, especially during exercise or in hot weather. Hip and elbow dysplasia. Bulldogs are prone to joint conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which can cause discomfort and mobility issues. Skin conditions. Bulldogs are susceptible to several skin conditions due to the folds in their skin that can trap dirt and moisture. Common skin conditions include eczema or atopic dermatitis, skin fold dermatitis, interdigital pyoderma, and chin folliculitis. Bulldogs may also develop demodectic mange, a skin disease caused by mites. Eye conditions. Bulldogs are prone to several eye conditions, including cherry eye, dry eye, corneal ulcers, eyelid and eyelash abnormalities, and persistent pupillary membranes. Bulldogs may also develop cataracts at a young age. This condition occurs when Bulldogs develop excessively thick skin on their legs or nose, which can be uncomfortable and lead to infections. Bulldogs may develop allergies to certain foods, medications, or environmental factors such as pollen or dust mites. Allergies can cause skin irritation, itchiness, and gastrointestinal issues. Heat sensitivity. Bulldogs are prone to heat sensitivity due to their shortened airways and difficulty regulating body temperature. Bulldogs should be kept in a cool, shaded area during hot weather to prevent heat exhaustion. Gastrointestinal issues. Bulldogs may experience gastrointestinal issues such as colitis and chronic diarrhea, which can cause discomfort and dehydration. Bulldogs may develop deafness, which can be caused by genetics or chronic ear infections. Bulldogs require a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain energy levels and stay active. Feeding a Bulldog an inadequate or low-quality diet can lead to a lack of energy, sluggishness, and even obesity. Bulldogs that are less active or prone to weight gain may require a lower-calorie diet, while more active Bulldogs may need a higher-calorie diet to fuel their activities. Feeding Bulldogs the right food and portions is essential to maintaining their activity level and overall health. Require a diet that is higher in calories and protein to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for English Bulldog puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial stage. Adult English Bulldogs. Require a diet that is lower in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs. Senior English Bulldogs. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health. Avoid common allergens. Bulldog often develops food allergies or intolerances, so it may be helpful if your dog food is free from common allergens, such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef. Bulldogs can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Digestibility: Bulldogs can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs. Joint support ingredients. Since Bulldogs are prone to common conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, look for dog food that contains ingredients that support joint health, such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Limited ingredients. Bulldogs with skin allergies or sensitivities may benefit from dog food with limited ingredients, which can help identify potential allergens. Look for dog food that contains a single protein source and a limited number of carbohydrates. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Bulldogs with skin conditions may benefit from dog food that contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help promote healthy skin and coat. Look for dog food that contains fish oil, flaxseed, or other sources of these fatty acids. Easy-to-digest ingredients. Bulldogs with gastrointestinal issues may benefit from dog food that contains easy-to-digest ingredients, such as chicken, rice, or sweet potatoes. Avoid dog food that contains artificial preservatives or fillers, which can be difficult for Bulldogs to digest. Limited sodium content. Chapter 2: The Reviews. This food appeals to those who pay attention to where their food comes from. Halo contains fatty acids and antioxidants but no DHA like most puppy foods. This recipe also contains legumes peas , which are ingredients of concern in canine diets, as we mentioned in a previous review. However, as we mentioned earlier, those fancy terms are primarily for advertising, not an actual reflection of the nutritional quality of the food. Also, grain-free diets come with their own cause for concern due to the high legume content. Although pet food makers use various sources for protein, dogs tend not to care whether the meat in their diet is cage-free or what form it comes in whole, meal, or by-product. English Bulldogs are prone to obesity, which is not healthy for any dog but is particularly dangerous for this breed. Flat-faced dogs, including Bulldogs, are prone to breathing issues related to their unusual anatomy. Being overweight makes these problems worse. Most foods come with a suggested feeding guide, but to be safe, ask your vet to help you calculate the ideal daily calorie intake for your bulldog. Your food choice may be somewhat dictated by any emerging medical concerns your pup is experiencing. Allergies, with their accompanying skin and ear problems, are one of the most common issues. We listed several allergy-friendly diets on our list for this reason. Do Your Research Before You Buy A Puppy Yes, you want to feed your English Bulldog puppy a healthy diet, but food can only do so much if your little dog comes with a host of inherited medical conditions. Our best value pick, Purina One , is both cost-effective and convenient. Royal Canin Bulldog features breed-specific nutrition. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains is free of ingredients from China and loaded with nutritious extras perfect for the Bulldog. We hope our reviews of these puppy diets help you navigate the crowded landscape of the pet food industry as you search for the best option for your wrinkly baby dog. She got her first cat at 5 years old and at 14, she started working for her local veterinarian. Elizabeth spent more than 20 years working as a veterinary nurse before stepping away to become a stay-at-home parent to her daughter. Now, she is excited to share her hard-earned knowledge literally--she has scars with our readers. When not writing, she enjoys reading, watching all sports but especially soccer, and spending time outdoors with her family.Read more Advertisement. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Our team went out into the field looking for the best canine nutrition products in the world. Our winner for this year is Pupper, which topped our charts in terms of ingredient quality as well as science backed claims. English Bulldogs are an amazing breed. They were traditionally bred to herd cattle. Today, these stocky, gentle companions have become one of the top breeds for families. English Bulldogs are extremely affectionate and low-maintenance. They tend to love to cuddle up on the couch with you as you binge watch your favorite show. You may also be aware that your pup needs routine exercise, as this breed is prone to weight gain. Keep reading to learn about 25 of the best dog foods available for English bulldogs. Each of these foods are crafted using high quality ingredients that are not only nutritious, but also taste great. They also provide just the right amount of calories for weight management, a crucial factor for most medium breed dogs. Give your dog a wholesome meal every day of the week with Pupper Fuel Chicken Recipe. This all-natural grain-free food is loaded with nutrients to keep your dog energized, happy, and at a lowered risk of common health conditions like diabetes, heart problems, and obesity. Pupper Fuel is made with 13 active ingredients, all of which provide functional support for your dog's health. Chicken is a great source of lean protein that builds muscle and strength. Apples are loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and various antioxidants. The addition of ginger provides gingerol, a compound that offers powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Calories: The calorie content will vary depending on the recipe. For more information, please visit wefeedraw. Price: Get this nutritious, minimally processed dog food at wefeedraw. The company ensures customer satisfaction and offers assistance through their dedicated customer service team. An English Bulldog's diet should consist of a well-balanced, high-quality dog food that meets their unique nutritional needs, considering their size, energy levels, and potential breed-specific health concerns. We Feed Raw provides superior raw dog food made from human-grade ingredients, including a variety of proteins like beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, and pork. Their selection consists of raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables, formulated to deliver a balanced and comprehensive diet suitable for dogs of all ages and breeds. Pure and Simple, this dog food is free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers, We Feed Raw dog food delivers clean and wholesome nutrition that your pet will adore. Breed-Specific Blend: We Feed Raw dog food is formulated to cater to the distinct nutritional requirements of English Bulldogs, ensuring a well-rounded diet tailored to their needs. Their dog food for English Bulldogs is uniquely formulated to provide balanced and complete nutrition for your furry friend. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult recipe is made with highly digestible proteins, high quality carbohydrates, and the optimal amount of fiber to support healthy digestion. This means less gas and less stool odor. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult is also fortified with nutrients that support skin, coat, bone, and joint health. Each bite delivers omega fatty acids, vitamin E, taurine, and calcium along with other nutrients like B vitamins, niacin, and trace minerals. This natural, grain-free dog food gives your dog the fuel and nutrients he needs to make every day his best day. Each serving is loaded with protein, healthy fats, fiber, and naturally nutritious ingredients. Merrick Texas Beef and Sweet Potato is enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin to protect and support joint health, along with omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids for skin, coat, and heart health. It's also fortified with a blend of B vitamins, folic acid, and health-boosting minerals. This recipe doesn't contain any poultry ingredients, wheat, soy, corn, or gluten. It's also crafted without any artificial ingredients, including preservatives. This adult kibble is made with roasted bison and roasted venison, providing your dog highly digestible energy so that he's ready for walks, fetch, and every fun activity in between. Each serving also provides nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, and legumes. These foods are high in antioxidants, fiber, and other essential nutrients that nourish your pup. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free is also made with a blend of omega fatty acids, which work together to support a shiny coat and healthy skin. Because gut health is so important, this food is enriched with species-specific probiotics. The proprietary strain of K9 probiotics is specially developed for dogs to support digestive and immune health. It's made without high fat, high calorie ingredients, which help to keep your bulldog at a healthy weight. The recipe starts with deboned chicken along with whole grains and fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients. Each serving offers health-boosting carrots, cranberries, brown rice, blueberries, peas, and alfalfa. It also contains the brand's exclusive LifeSource Bits, which offer a precise blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support healthy oxidative balance and immune health. This veterinarian formulated food is proof that simple ingredients are the best way to nourish and support your dog's needs. The recipe is formulated with a single meat protein chicken , along with two types of potatoes and antioxidant rich blueberries. It's fortified with essential nutrients, including calcium for strong bones, vitamin E for skin and coat health, and glucosamine to keep your pup's joints free from aches and pains. This food is made with nine simple food ingredients that keep your pup satisfied and nourished. The recipe doesn't contain any grain, wheat, corn, or soy, which means no upset stomach! Instead, it's made with chicken, sweet potatoes, alfalfa meal, and fiber-rich garbanzo beans. Added probiotics support your pooch's gut health while also supporting a strong immune system. The recipe is crafted with lamb, menhaden fish meal, flaxseed, tomatoes, peas, and other wholesome ingredients. This adult dog food is supported by essential nutrients, including glucosamine, taurine, probiotics, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. These nutrients encourage healthy digestion, a strong immune system, and healthy bones and joints. This all natural food is made with drool-worthy bison and beef, along with a mix of fruits and vegetables that will have your dog counting down the time until his next meal. Each serving is packed with lean protein, peas, flaxseed, apples, carrots, blueberries, cranberries, and spinach. These ingredients are natural sources of omega fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free is enriched with taurine for heart health along with vitamin C for a strong immune system and vitamin E for skin and coat health. This grain-free food is also fortified with B vitamins, zinc, calcium, vitamin E, and probiotics. It's made with a blend of lean protein, functional superfoods, probiotics, and other nutrients that support immune, gut, and joint health. Each serving provides wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes, green beans, pumpkin, carrots, blueberries, and cranberries. To ensure your pup is getting all the nutritional support he needs, this Solid Gold formula is fortified with a blend of vitamins and minerals, including choline, zinc, vitamins A, C, and E, and copper. This all natural food is made with wild Pacific salmon that's caught using sustainable fishing practices. Salmon is naturally rich in omega fatty acids, protein, B vitamins, and potassium. While some dogs thrive eating grain-free food, it's not the best option for all canines. These grains are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and other health-boosting nutrients. It doesn't contain any wheat, soy, corn, peas, legumes, potatoes, or meat by-products. It's also free from artificial flavors or preservatives. This holistically balanced food provides the nutrition that your dog needs to reach and maintain optimal health. It's made with high-quality protein from chicken meal, along with healthy fats and whole grains. The addition of blueberries and guaranteed amounts of vitamin C and vitamin E ensure that your canine has a strong immune system. This natural food also contains healthy fats, including omega 3 fatty acids, along with whole grains that are rich in B vitamins, fiber, protein, zinc, iron, and other minerals. These ingredients also provide sustained energy to keep your pup going all day long. This food is specially formulated to meet the nutrient needs of medium and large breed dogs at all life stages. It's made with a holistic formula that features an optimal balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates, and fiber. It contains a healthy dose of omega fatty acids, which promote skin, coat, and joint health. This natural dog food also contains DHA for brain support, along with carrots, apples, peas, and blueberries that are naturally high in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. It's made without wheat, corn, soy, or other low quality ingredients that don't nourish your pup's health. This high quality kibble offers complete and balanced nutrition with a blend of wholesome ingredients. Each bite will leave your pup fulfilled, offering a mixture of venison, peas, sweet potatoes, and flaxseed. The addition of fish oil provides health-boosting omega fatty acids, which protect and nourish your dog's skin and coat. Give your dog the nutrition he needs with Orijen Original Grain-Free. Each bite is loaded with whole prey nutrition, including nutrient-rich meat, organs, cartilage, and bone. Orijen Original Grain-Free is also made with other whole ingredients, including peas, navy beans, pears, apples, butternut squash, and kelp. Orijen Original Grain-Free kibble is freeze-dried coated for a burst of raw flavor that your dog is sure to go crazy over. It's also fortified with zinc, vitamin E, probiotics, and even botanical ingredients like juniper berries and rosehips. This light adult dog food is made with fewer calories but doesn't cut corners on flavor or nutrition. Your pup won't even know that he's eating light food! It's formulated with pasture-raised lamb for quality protein, along with superfoods like pumpkin, chia seed, kale, blueberries, dried kelp, spinach, and others. Diamond Naturals Light Formula is also made with wholesome grains, including grain sorghum, brown rice, and millet. Diamond Naturals Light Formula is enriched with species-specific probiotics. This healthy bacteria supports healthy digestion as well as a strong immune system. Each serving also contains prebiotics and antioxidants to give your pup a daily boost of wellness. This grain-free kibble is made with easy to digest ingredients that won't cause tummy problems or other issues. Instead, it's formulated with omega-rich salmon, along with nutrient-dense carbs like pumpkin and sweet potato. The active nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber included in this food support your dog's immune, digestive, and overall well-being. This food doesn't contain any low-grade ingredients, including artificial flavors, poultry by-product meal, or preservatives. It's made without grain, wheat, corn, or soy, so you can feel extra good knowing that this food protects and nourishes your best friend. This food is made with animal-based proteins and offers an optimal amount of amino acids and other nutrients to keep your pup strong, healthy, and thriving. Not only is this kibble made with chicken and other meat-based ingredients, it also contains low-glycemic whole grains like flaxseed and millet, along with whole produce like apples and blueberries. Each of these ingredients are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that protect your dog's well-being. Each serving is fortified with nutrients like taurine, copper, zinc, potassium, B vitamins, and vitamin E. With this high quality, grain-powered dog food, you can nourish your canine's mind and body so that you both can enjoy many more years together. This kibble is manufactured in the USA and is formulated with an optimal blend of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates that keep your canine energized and nourished. This nutrient-rich dog food is made with dual animal proteins from chicken and pork meal, which are flavorful and packed with plenty of muscle-supporting protein. It also contains whole grain and fiber from oatmeal and brown rice, along with peas and flaxseed. Each serving contains ideal levels of glucosamine for joint health, vitamin E for skin and coat health, calcium for strong bones, and taurine for cardiovascular health. This grain-free food is made with high-quality protein and field grown vegetables that are natural sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Each piece of heart-shaped kibble is made with chicken, turkey, potatoes, apples, and carrots. This dry food is also made with flaxseed, which is not only high in fiber, but is a great source of protein, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. The natural recipe is loaded with glucosamine, chondroitin, biotin, amino acids, vitamin A, and probiotics for optimal digestive and gut health. This holistic dog food is made with clean, easy to digest ingredients that nourish your pooch with every bite. This kibble is formulated with responsibly raised chicken, along with other high quality ingredients including chicken liver, oat groats, flaxseed, along with fruits and vegetables like blueberries, sweet potatoes, and peas. Your dog's skin and coat will be healthier than ever with optimal levels of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. This wholesome kibble is also made with thiamine, zinc, copper, calcium, vitamin E, taurine, and other health-boosting compounds. It doesn't contain any artificial ingredients or preservatives, which means that you can feed with total confidence. While it's specially formulated for overweight dogs, this dry kibble doesn't skimp on flavor or nutrition. In fact, this food is made with a blend of 15 different superfoods, including whole chia seed, dried kale, dried spinach, dried pumpkin, dried apples, dried blueberries, and others. All ingredients are sourced from trusted farmers across the globe and are thoroughly tested for safety and quality purposes. This weight management kibble is made without any GMOs and also doesn't contain any wheat, corn, soy, chicken by-product meal, or peas. This dog food is formulated with quality ingredients that you know and can trust. This formula is designed to support all life stages for dogs of all sizes and breeds, including English Bulldogs. Inception Fish Recipe is formulated with animal and fish protein that supports your dog's lean muscle. The combination of whitefish and catfish offers health-boosting nutrients like protein, omega fatty acids, B vitamins, copper, phosphorus, and others. Each serving also contains fiber-rich oats, along with millet, milo, and ground flaxseeds. Inception Fish Recipe is made without wheat, corn, soy, chicken, or grain. It also doesn't contain low quality fillers, including legumes, potato, and harmful ingredients like artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. This balanced recipe is made with minimally processed ingredients that help your canine to thrive and be his very best. This complete and wholesome nutrition will keep your pup fit, happy, and healthy. Each bite is packed with tasty meat, fish, and more than 20 superfoods like carrots, broccoli, sweet potatoes, blueberries, cranberries, and blackberries. This adult dog food is fortified with prebiotics and probiotics to support healthy digestion and immune function. It's also formulated with L-carnitine for heart health and fat burning to keep your English Bulldog in tip-top shape. It also doesn't contain artificial flavors or preservatives. This adult dog food is ideal for pups with and without food sensitivities. 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. Final thoughts Choosing the right dog food for your English bulldog is easier than you may think. No matter which food you choose for your bulldog, you can have total confidence that your pup is getting all of the nourishment he needs with every meal he eats. 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 very important to keep in mind that English bulldogs are somewhat different to most breeds. And correct feeding technics are of utmost importance during and after their full development. Your English bulldog puppy does not know anything about nutrition. He only knows what tastes good. It is up to you to know what and how to feed your buddy, so he will get everything he needs to stay healthy and happy. Best Diet for English Bulldogs Best Nutrients for English Bulldog Puppies Your English bulldog puppy needs proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals for uptime growth and health Your puppy uses proteins for growth and repair of muscles, bones and other bodily tissues. They are also used for production of antibodies, enzymes and hormones. Vitamins and minerals participate in muscle and nerve function, bone growth, healing, metabolism and fluid balance. English bulldogs also need plenty of fresh, clean water. Adequate water intake also helps prevent formation of urinary stones, which is a potential problem for this breed. Food Brands for English Bulldogs We recommend to new English bulldog families to avoid drastic changes in the food of the puppies. We recommend the puppy keeps using the same food the breeder used before delivery. In our case, we like to use Royal Canin Bulldog Puppy. We have used several other brands over the years. And, so far, Royal Canin has worked great for our puppies and adults. When feeding our English bulldog puppy, we take into consideration several factors. Such as the amount of protein and fat they should receive in the first few weeks of age. There are other brands in the market that may provide the same or similar amount of protein and fat. However, you should consider important things such as ingredients of the food, allergies it might cause. As professional breeders of English bulldogs, we always let our clients know about the food we give to our puppies. In addition to other supplements that we use. That way, the new owners of the English bulldog puppies can continue with the same process. But, we do understand that a lot of times people may decide to go a different route. Both for the type of food and feeding technics. Sometimes, based on what they may consider, it is correct or better for their English bulldogs. Or perhaps after receiving veterinarian advice. Our recommendation is to continue to use the one we use. Feeding Frequency for English bulldogs The number of times you feed an English bulldog puppy is also very important. The younger the puppy is, the more often one has to feed the puppy. For breeders, it is a lot of work due. Mainly due to the fact that we have to care for the puppies since day one. We have to rigorously continue feeding them at least every two 2 hours. Usually, when we release our puppies; they will be at least eight 8 weeks old. And they will be eating solid food. At this stage, it is recommended to feed the puppies three 3 times a day. Once in the morning, afternoon, and early evening. Sometimes due to a matter of schedule or advice from friends, breeders or veterinarians; families will feed the puppy two 2 times a day. This will make things a little easy for the family training the English bulldog. If this is the case, the correct amount of food should be provided to the puppy. Always based on their body weight as well as the age of the puppy. A feeding guide or table should be available to you on the bag of food you use. In most cases it is recommended for an English bulldog to be on the puppy formula for the first year of life and then a gradual change to an adult formula containing the same nutrients should be given. It is important to keep in mind that if you as an English bulldog puppy owner encounter any issues with your dog such as allergies or other common illnesses among bulldogs, then veterinarian advice should be taken. Should I give supplements to English Bulldog Puppies? This food will provide the puppy with the nutrients needed to have a long, healthy life. But as breeders, we use other things to supplement the diet of our English bulldogs so that we can keep them away as much as possible from common illnesses among them. The use of the right type of supplements from an early stage in the development of the dog is key when raising English bulldogs than with a lot of other breeds. This is due to the fact that English bulldogs have a weaker skeletal system and a lower immune system than other breeds. Having the presence of supplements will help the puppy to develop into a healthier adult. Eggs, cod liver oil, chicken breast, some vegetables are also great for them. Along with the food we use, we also recommend the multi vitamin NuVet. It helps with a lot of the common issues the English bulldog breed encounters during their life. For detail information on NuVet and how to order instructions, please visit our website and click on the link on top that says NuVet. If you think you still have questions about the right food to feed your English bulldog puppy or the correct supplement or multi vitamins you can use; please feel free to contact us. Remember that English bulldogs are the best breed in the world; therefor quality food, treats and supplements are ideal when having them as pets. Share this post.

Their beauty, athleticism, smarts, attitude. To me it was the perfect package. So I went out looking for one. Of course, I made all the first time buyer mistakes as well. I knew nothing of reputable breeders, health testing, titles and temperment evaluations, and I bought my first female Lily out of the paper. She is not conformatally correct, but luckily she had a friendly, though shy temperament and beyond all luck, she lived until 3 months shy of 14 years old! Lily was your typical velcro dobe and was happiest when she was right next to me. In , When Lily was 5, I decided to add to my doberman family, and this time looked for a top notch breeder. Someone who was breeding for health and solid teperament, and was active in the dog world working and putting titles on their dogs. He sold me a male out of a great litter, and I named him Strider. Strider was everything you could ask for in a doberman. He was a great example of the breed both physically and mentally. He was beautiful and bomb proof and bold as brass. He was funny, full of himself, and beyond confident. Friendly with both humans and dogs, he became a certified therpay dog and went to hopspitals and old age homes regularly to visit people who wanted to spend time with a dog. I lost Strider just shy of his 7th birthday to complications of Lymphoma. He did six months of chemo and two half body radiations and was cancer free to the end. Many thanks to the team at the OVC in Guelph. He was such a good boy. After I lost Strider, I decided to persue a dream I had always had, but not been able to fulfill. To show my own doberman in the conformation ring and get a championship. With my work schedule for the past 20 years, that would have been impossible. Working on stage and only having Mondays off really does not leave you much opportunity to go to dog shows or competitions on the weekends! One of the trade offs for a life in the theatre!!! So in January , I blocked off time and bought myself a 'show dog'! I contacted Sandra Hunter of Bruda Dobermans in Chicago, and I was lucky enough to get one of the two show males she had held back. I named him Rudolph, as I got him just after Christmas, and as he is red and looks like a reindeer. Rudy was to be my first 'show' dog and boy did he teach me a thing or two about training a dog for the ring! Rudy finished his Canadian Championship owner handled in Novemeber of .Rudy is also involved in agility. The show bug caught, and I wanted a great quality bitch to show and to hopefully become my foundation bitch of my own breeding program in the future. As they say, the universe shows you the way and things happen for a reason. I was not really actively looking for said bitch, as Rudy was still young and I had things I wanted to do with him first but a casual email turned into one of the best things that could have happened! Their male special Gage, was a dog that not only was so impressive to look at but who reminded me a lot of Strider. Both American and Canadian Grand Champions and both exceptional representations of the breed. Quite the accomplishement as Gage is owner handled by Greg. So it came to be that I would get a show bitch from this fantastic breeding, and I named her Vega after the star! Vega, the brightest star in the constellation Lyra. Vega has been extensively studied by astronomers, leading it to be termed "arguably the next most important star in the sky after the Sun. Bold as brass. She is beautiful and bombproof. She's never spooked, she adjusts to new situations in seconds, and is happy and inquisitive all the time. A little Jumping bean! She was an easy dog to handle in the ring and I finished her Canadian Championship at 8 months, with a best puppy in group. She finished her American Championship with 4 Majors, 2 of which she won on the competitive Florida circuit. Fantastic support, mentorship and friendship. And that is what I intend to offer all of my own puppy buyers in the future. Support, mentorship and friendship. Please feel free to follow the NEWS section of this website to keep up to date on all of the goings on of Broadway Dobermans. Should a Doberman Mix take after their Doberman Pinscher parent, they will be a large, powerful, and protective dog that is affectionate with their families. They may look imposing as they grow, but they are playful, energetic dogs that can make great family pets. Doberman Pinschers are quintessential protectors. As such, they require a lot of training and socialization to become a happy, well-balanced, and well-mannered dog. A properly socialized and trained Doberman is fiercely loyal to their families and is also a loving companion with a fun personality. As long as they are properly trained and socialized, they tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and even other pets. If a Doberman Mix takes after their Doberman Pinscher parent, then you can expect a similar temperament. However, the other parent breed will likely introduce some other potential traits and quirks, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. You can also meet the mother dog in-person to get an idea of her temperament and to see the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. The breeder should be starting socialization and training. Dobermans are moderately adaptable dogs. Because of their large size and high energy, they are better suited to homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living, but you will need to dedicate a lot of time every day to making sure they get the exercise and attention they need to be happy and healthy. Doberman Pinschers do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Because of their short coat, they may need to bundle up in some winter dog products to stay warm on walks during the winter. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar in terms of adaptability, then you can expect the same from a Doberman Mix. You still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed so you have a better idea of what mix of traits and quirks a Doberman Mix puppy could end up with. Mixed-breed dogs are sometimes healthier than purebred dogs. The other parent breed will have their own set of potential health concerns, so you want to ask the breeder about them. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to help avoid passing issues on to puppies. So, you should be planning to ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents anyway. You can also ask about any relevant health tests or clearances that have been done. Doberman Pinschers are also one of the dog breeds at a higher risk for developing bloat and a Doberman Mix will likely have the same risk. Bloat in dogs is a serious condition that can quickly become fatal if gastric torsion occurs. Although Dobermans are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please, they are also strong, powerful dogs with a strong will as well. If they are not socialized properly or well-trained, they can become unmanageable, destructive, and pushy. Because of this, a Doberman Pinscher is usually better suited to more experienced owners. Novice owners can do well with this breed, but obedience classes or enlisting the help of a professional trainer is highly recommended. The other parent breed could make a Doberman Mix easier or more difficult to train. Make sure you ask the breeder about them and then be prepared to enroll in training classes either way. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat similar to one of their parent breeds or a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should a Doberman Mix end up with a Doberman coat, it will be short and will shed a little year-round. A quick daily brushing and the occasional bath is enough to keep this coat healthy. Good dental care for dogs is often overlooked, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day helps prevent painful dental diseases later in life. A Doberman Pinscher is a high-energy dog breed that needs a lot of exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run or another activity are usually enough for this dog. But, they are happy to be active with you, so they will likely be up for activity if you are. These dogs are powerful, athletic, and versatile. So, once puppies finish growing , you can try a wide variety of activities with them. You can try hiking, swimming, running, playing frisbee, training for dog sports, and more. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you can expect your Doberman Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. Even if the other parent breed has a lower activity level, you will still need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog. A fully-grown Doberman Pinscher is usually inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed can affect this, so you want to ask the breeder about them and also pay attention to which breed is the mother. Although it is not a guarantee, you can also meet the mother dog in-person. This can give you some idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown Doberman Mix. A Doberman generally lives for years. The other parent breed may affect this slightly, but you can likely expect a similar life span in a Doberman Mix. Featured Doberman Mix Article. Life Span Did You Know? The Doberman Pinscher is one of the dog breeds that make good guard dogs. In fact, they are known as one of the most effective guard dogs in the world. The Doberman Pinscher was first bred by a man named Louis Dobermann, a German tax collector around who wanted a guard dog that was also a suitable companion. The Doberman breed was created with a melting pot of different breeds that include the Old Shorthaired Shepherd, Rottweiler , Black and Tan Terrier, and the German Pinscher , among others. There was a time when Dobermans were bred with the intention of creating an aggressive breed, which led to a reputation that still precedes them. The AKC recognized the Doberman Pinscher in as a member of the Working Group and they are still one of the most popular working breeds. Today, the Doberman can be found as a loyal family companion and working as search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, therapy dogs, and service dogs. They are even one of the popular show dog breeds and are often found competing in dog sports. The Doberman may grow into a large, powerful dog with an intimidating reputation, but they are loving and affectionate with their families. In fact, one of the facts about Doberman Pinschers is that they are extremely affectionate towards their owners. They tend to get along well with children, dogs, and other pets in the family. They are protective and are initially suspicious of strangers, but they tend to warm up once introduced as long as they are well-socialized. Because they are protective and vigilant watchdogs, a Doberman Pinscher will bark to alert you. But, they do not tend to bark a lot unless they have been trained into it or are poorly socialized. In addition to ongoing socialization, you can also train your dog to stop barking early on to keep it from becoming a nuisance. Doberman Pinschers are moderately adaptable dog breeds. Although they can adapt to smaller homes if enough time is dedicated to giving them the exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need every day, their large size and high energy level can be an obstacle in small living spaces. They are best suited to homes with enough room for them to move around and fenced yards where they can run. They are sensitive to heat. Their short coat also does not provide much insulation from the cold, so they may need some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks when temperatures drop. As a protective and affectionate dog that bonds closely with their families, Dobermans do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. They also get bored easily and can become destructive if they are left on their own. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, barrel-chested breed, the Doberman Pinscher is at risk for bloat. The Doberman Pinscher is one of the smartest dog breeds in the world, so it is no surprise that they pick up on things quickly. Although a Doberman can be eager to please, they also tend to be strong-willed. Once you have a strong bond with them and their respect, they will strive to please you provided expectations are clear and consistent during training. Training classes or working with a professional trainer are recommended, even for experienced owners. If not socialized well or trained properly, these dogs can become destructive, unmanageable, and aggressive. Doberman Pinschers have short coats that shed a little year-round. Weekly brushing or brushing a few times a week along with the occasional bath is usually enough to keep their coat healthy and looking great. Cutting nails once or twice a month keeps nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning them as needed can help prevent ear infections. Ideal dental care for dogs starts with daily tooth brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed. Starting a good dental care routine early and maintaining it consistently can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Doberman Pinschers are high-energy dogs that are very energetic, very playful, and also very hardworking. They require a lot of exercise every day and need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough, but Dobermans will often be up for more activity if you are. They are athletic and versatile dogs, so once puppies finish growing and developing, you can try a lot of things with them. Playing frisbee, running, hiking, swimming, and more are all things you and your Doberman might enjoy together. Doberman Pinschers tend to excel at agility, tracking, obedience, rally, fly ball, dock diving , and more. Fully-grown Doberman Pinschers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Doberman Pinschers generally live for years on average. The U. Marine Corps Dobermans of the Pacific were dedicated to the war effort and increased the fame and popularity of the breed. Twenty-five military dogs died during the battle for Guam. Featured Doberman Pinscher Article.

Pin1 1 Shares Before I get too in-deep into this topic, I just want to say one thing. However, it is important to recognize when your fat French Bulldog is overweight before it leads to long-term health issues. We all know how adorable this breed is. It can be hard to say no to them sometimes, and even the most well-meaning of owners can over-indulge their Frenchies which can lead to weight problems. If not monitored this can lead to a range of problems including damage to joints and ligaments, heart disease, difficulty breathing, and diabetes to name just a few. But how exactly do you know if your Frenchie Bulldog is overweight or fat and what is a healthy weight for this breed? What is a healthy weight for a French Bulldog? The healthy weight for a French Bulldog can vary dramatically based on their size and gender. For example, the healthy weight for a male French Bulldog could range from 20 to 28 pounds, and a female from 16 to 24 pounds. It will often depend on how tall or small they are , with some of that weight possibly being muscle and related to their gender — males tend to be stockier than females. How do I know if my French Bulldog is overweight? Using your fingers, check to see if you can easily feel his ribcage. If you cannot feel ribs, but instead fatty flesh, it could be an indication you have an overweight French Bulldog. Of course, you should always get a professional opinion from a vet if you have any concerns at all that your Frenchie could be overweight. Visual checks and indicators As well as being able to feel their ribs, you should also be able to look at them to check if they are a healthy weight. If they are in the ideal weight ranges for their gender and size, a Frenchie will have a thin layer of fat over their ribs, these being noticeable as they move. You should also be able to see and feel their spine when they bend and curl themselves into a sleeping position. Another way to check your Frenchie is a healthy weight is to look at them from above. If they are not carrying extra pounds, they tend to look like an hourglass shape, with a visible waistline that is smaller than their chest — you can see what that looks like with our Frenchie Claude in the photo below. Sometimes a quick visual check from above is all you need to do. As I mentioned earlier, their appearance can vary a lot. They get tired and overexerted easily Frenchies will often become breathless after heavy activity, but when overweight this will be noticeable after just a tiny amount of activity. Overweight Frenchies will start panting or having to stop after a very short walk. One of the most visible indicators that your Frenchie needs to lose weight is if they are unable to climb up steps and stairs like they did before. They are unable to groom and scratch themselves Whilst Frenchies cannot clean certain areas of their body , they can still lick and scratch themselves. If you notice your dog is unable to scratch and groom himself like he used to, it could be because the flexibility has been replaced with weight gain fat. How can I get my French Bulldog to lose weight? If you are concerned that your fat French Bulldog puppy is overweight or that your adult Frenchie is no longer at a healthy weight anymore, then here are some tips on what to do. Feed them lighter dog food And by that, I mean dog food with less calories, higher in fiber, and more protein. By doing so your Frenchie will burn the calories off faster and will lose weight quicker as a result. Vets say that dogs should not eat anything more than 25 calories for every pound they weigh. The average male Frenchie weighs around 25 pounds, meaning your dog may only need calories a day. You should always read the guidelines written on commercial dog food packaging, and if in doubt please read my guide to how much Frenchies should eat to stay healthy. But please do this on advice of your vet. You might be surprised at how many extra calories your overweight French Bulldog takes on from picking up scraps in the kitchen or dropped from the table. I try to walk Claude twice a day if I can, each time taking up around 30 minutes. I think this is probably why my Frenchie is very trim and muscular, rather than being a fatty. Weigh your Frenchie regularly If you have got a fat French Bulldog who needs to go on a diet to lose weight, then you should have a target in mind. The weight target is something your vet can advise on. Once you have that target weight in mind, I recommend regular weighing sessions, probably every couple of days. This will help you to keep them on target. Weighing a fat Frenchie is actually quite easy. Weigh yourself on the scales first, then pick your dog up and weigh yourself again. The difference in weight is what your overweight Frenchie comes in at. Neutering which can lead to less energy. Bloating and water retention due to illness. Canine medication. The breed is instantly recognizable, with his low-slung body, massive flat muzzle, wide shoulders, and strong limbs. Unfortunately, they are prone to some serious health problems. And extra weight can make these worse. So how do you know if your Bulldog is carrying too much weight? And what can you do to help him slim down? Do Bulldogs Get Fat Easily? Unfortunately, for a breed who loves to eat, the answer is yes, Bulldogs have a tendency to gain weight easily. This is because Bulldogs are physically unable to do any vigorous activities. The disparity between how much they eat and their inability to do sufficient exercise is the main reason for obesity in Bulldogs. Bulldogs are brachycephalic, or short-muzzled. Despite having a flat face, the skin, palate, teeth, tongue and tissue are still the same as they would be for a dog with a much longer muzzle. This makes them highly prone to the conformation-related, respiratory disorder known as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS. This condition presents a wide array of symptoms, from snoring and snorting to very severe breathing problems. Small nostrils and a short windpipe often cause severe sleep apnea. These interrupted breathing episodes cause a decrease in blood oxygen levels and excess carbon dioxide in the bloodstream. Already predisposed, an overweight Bulldog will be at a high risk for a sleeping disorder. Is My Bulldog Fat? An adult male Bulldog weighs about 50 pounds. The female weighs approximately 40 pounds. Standing just 14 to 15 inches, this is a breed who is meant to be thick and heavy. These weights are guidelines. There are ranges that fall within the parameters of normal weight based on genetics, shape and size. Due to their unique physique, it can be harder to judge whether a Bulldog is overweight just by looking at him than it is with other breeds. When you run your hands along either side of his rib cage, you should be able to feel his ribs. Also, if he gets winded easily, is snorting more or short of breath, these could be signs that he needs to lose weight. Are Fat Bulldogs Unhealthy? A U. Obesity is the most common medical condition in dogs. The reality is that Bulldogs are an unhealthy breed with a life span of just eight to 10 years. When you add extra pounds to a dog who is already suffering, it can escalate many health conditions. Bulldog Health Problems Here are a few ways to better understand monitor common health problems for Bulldogs. The older they are, the worse things can get. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is an abnormal formation of the hip socket. If severe, it can cause lameness and painful arthritis. Intervertebral Disk Disease Intervertebral disk disease occurs when the discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column either bulge or burst. Patellar Luxation Patellar luxation happens when the kneecap, or patella, is dislocated from its normal position in the thigh bone. It can cause pain, lameness and can lead to a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament. Spine Deformities Pelvic deformities and degenerative spine disease also affect the breed. Ultimately, when joints, bones, tendons and ligaments bear the stress of extra weight, they can become damaged or worsen existing conditions. There could be other medical reasons for his weight gain. There are plenty of specialty dog foods on the market that can make things somewhat confusing. There are dog food brands that are designed to decrease digestive problems, protect joints, strengthen skin and even reduce flatulence. Whether you choose dry or canned food, your Bulldog should receive a high-quality formulation. Look for organic or all-natural ingredients and no fillers, animal by-products, additives or preservatives. A high-quality food with a good source of protein can make him feel fuller, which might reduce calorie intake. Also look for a recipe with few ingredients to reduce the chance of allergies and tummy upset. Like human snacks, those tasty in-between-meal treats are often a big factor in putting on pounds. While treats can be an important aid during training, giving too many can cause obesity. Make sure to deduct these calories from his daily food allowance. Swap Training Treats for Healthier Alternatives Instead of high-calorie, commercially formulated treats, consider the benefits of natural foods. Natural foods , such as carrots and apples, are good, low-calorie treats. For four days in a row, give him a third less food than he was getting. If your Bulldog was eating one and a half cups of high-quality dry kibble twice a day, reduce the amount to one cup for each meal. Then check him again. Keep repeating this process until you can detect a visible waist and can feel his rib cage when pressing along his sides. Like all dogs, your Bulldog is an individual and some will be more active than others. As this study found, Bulldogs with more severe BOAS walked a shorter distance, moved more slowly and took longer to recover from exercise than those with only mild signs. However, the reality is the Bulldog is simply not capable of managing more than a low level of exercise. Hot, humid days can make breathing even more difficult. Under no circumstances should you over-exercise this breed. It can result in collapse and further health complications. If your Bulldog shows signs of overheating, has trouble walking or falls down, you should take him to the vet immediately. Caring for a Fat Bulldog Being fat is no fun for any dog. But for a Bulldog, it can greatly impact his quality of life and reduce an already short life span. Because his ability to exercise is very restricted, the best way to care for your fat Bulldog is to monitor his diet so he loses those extra pounds. Carrying around less weight can also make it easier for him to breathe and reduce the risks of injury to bones and joints. Your Bulldog is probably going to be hungry and wonder what happened to his treats. Just remember that saying no to extra calories is saying yes to a better life for your Bulldog. Do you have a fat Bulldog? References and Further Reading:.

Which dog should I get? German Shepherd or Rottweiler? While they may have a ferocious reputation, the Rottweiler makes for a calm and courageous companion when paired with an experienced pet parent who is willing to invest time into training and socializing them. In contrast, the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and not nearly as headstrong as the Rottweiler and this, coupled with how praise-motivated they are makes them easier to train. From size to strength and intelligence to aggression, read on to find out which canine companion is right for you. German Shepherd Image credit: Getty Images Bred as a sheep herding dog, the German Shepherd is an intelligent, brave, confident dog eager to please its owner. Often used as police dogs, this working breed is easy to train as it is a fast learner and is motivated by praise and play. They have lots of energy so they will need more exercise — about two hours a day. They love to play, but are not as goofy as the Rottweiler. The breed comes in black and tan, blue, white and black colour variations. They live for around years, but are generally healthy dogs. Rottweiler Image credit: Getty The Rottweiler was originally used by the Romans to pull carts, herd cattle and guard homes. This breed is a loyal and affectionate protector. Also used as police and service dogs, they love to work, but are more motivated by food than the German Shepherd. The Rottweiler is a good, loveable pup. Their short to medium double coat is generally always black and tan. They live around years and are also quite healthy dogs. Rottweilers have a more square and stocky build, with males measuring around in cm at shoulder height and females around in .Males weigh around lb .Male German Shepherds measure around in cm at shoulder height and females around in cm. Their bodies are longer and more athletic. The Rottweiler probably has a slight advantage when it comes to strength because it has a more muscular, heavier build and they were built for carrying and pulling weight, whereas the German Shepherd is more agile. However both breeds were bred to protect and should not show aggression if trained properly. Rottweiler vs German Shepherd: Health Given the proper care, both of these breeds tend to be relatively healthy. However, as with all large breeds, they're naturally predisposed to certain health conditions that their smaller brothers and sisters aren't — such as hip dysplasia. The Rottweiler is also more likely to suffer from conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy and hypothyroidism, while the German Shepherd is prone to bloat and degenerative myelopathy. Check out our guide to five German Shepherd health issues you need to know about for more on this. Both of these breeds will benefit from the best dry dog food or wet food that's been specifically formulated for large breeds. It's important not to overfeed them as they're prone to weight gain if overfed and under-exercised and excess weight will put pressure on their joints. Rottweiler vs German Shepherd: Intelligence These two breeds are both intelligent. However the German Shepherd is considered the third smartest dog breed after the Border Collie and the Poodle in terms of work intelligence and obedience according to a study by canine psychologist Dr Stanley Coren. The Rottweiler ranked ninth on the list, showing that both breeds are smart but the German Shepherd learns more quickly. However, any dog can become aggressive if not trained properly and this does not necessarily mean that German Shepherds are more aggressive as this breed is more common. Although both breeds have a reputation for being aggressive, this is an unfair stereotype. Why do police use German Shepherds instead of Rottweilers? German Shepherds make great police dogs. Although Rottweilers are also smart and easy to train and have also been used by the force , they are not as athletic and do not have the same endurance. Their strength is also a hindrance in police work as often when apprehending felons, more care and less strength is needed to reduce damage. Whether you choose a German Shepherd or a Rottweiler will very much come down to your personality as well as theirs. They are very similar breeds and both will make loyal, loving protective family dogs. The German Shepherd will be slightly easier to train, but will need more exercise, whereas the Rottweiler will be a goofier companion and will eat more due to its size. Both are healthy dogs with a similar lifespan but look out for common health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia in both breeds and cardiac concerns with the Rottie. For more on these two breeds, check out our guides to 10 surprising Rottweiler facts and six pawsome German Shepherd facts. Today's best deals on wet dog food. They are both working breeds, and a strong work ethic is central to their personalities. They are also both as stubborn as you can imagine. Rottweilers are fairly ancient dogs, and they were kept by the Romans to maintain the herds that would accompany their armies. They had to be ferocious enough to keep cattle in line, while also having enough endurance to keep up with an army on the march. They were primarily created to act as scouts and sentries at army installations. As a result, they had to be focused, dedicated, and ready to follow orders. Their backgrounds mean that these dogs require a firm and competent hand in training. Typically, neither breed is recommended for first-time owners. You should have some experience training and leading dogs before taking on one of these headstrong breeds. Also, early socialization is absolutely critical. Image Credit: cvop, Pixabay Training Styles Both breeds respond well to positive reinforcement, but neither one is likely to tolerate negative discipline techniques like shock collars, physical aggression, or yelling. German Shepherds are big, goofy animals, and as such, they tend to be motivated by play. You can teach a lot of important commands by incorporating them into a game or using playtime as a reward for successfully completing the training. Rotties, on the other hand, love to eat. They tend to be extremely food-motivated, so you may have to hand over some treats if you want him to sit and stay. Be careful about being too generous with the cookies, though, because the breed can be prone to obesity. Both are extremely intelligent, so you have to be consistent with your training practices and rigorous with your commands. German Shepherds tend to follow every command to the letter, so if you misspeak, you could have to redo some training. Rottweilers love to bend the rules, though, so you have to watch them like a hawk and not let them get away with anything. Exercise Requirements Once we told you that these were working dogs, you should have already known that neither one would be satisfied sitting next to you on the couch all day binge-watching Netflix. Both these dogs need a fair amount of vigorous exercise — about an hour a day for Rottweilers, and roughly twice that much for German Shepherds. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, and perhaps more so. They need regular training, and you should consider investing in puzzle toys and other intellectual games. Both breeds also take well to sports like agility training. Bottom line: while neither breed is ideal for a family of couch potatoes, German Shepherds require even more activity than Rotties. Rottweilers are big dogs. Really big. They have broad chests, big heads, and plenty of power packed into their bodies. German Shepherds are longer and leaner. These dogs can also seem bigger than they are due to their massive coats more on that later. As you might expect, given their shapes and sizes, the two breeds have different physicalities as well. For Rottweilers, obesity can be a problem. This leads to heart issues, spinal problems, hip dysplasia, and more. German Shepherds, on the other hand, are extremely likely to suffer from hip or elbow dysplasia. They suffer arthritis at high rates as well, and degenerative disc disease is a concern due to the slope of their backs. Intelligence As noted earlier, these are two of the smartest dog breeds on the planet. According to neuropsychologist Stanley Coren, the author of The Intelligence of Dogs, German Shepherds are the third-smartest breed, while Rottweilers come in at ninth on the list. That means that both breeds will be quick studies in training, and they may pick up lessons you never intended to teach. It also means that you have to always be on your toes, as you might think that you left the peanut butter out of reach, only to find an empty jar when you wake up in the morning. Both dogs can also be accomplished escape artists if left alone in the backyard for too long. While you might assume that smarter is automatically better when it comes to dogs, you should realize that more intelligent dogs usually require more stimulation and more dedicated training. That said, both these animals are guard dogs by nature. However, when given proper socialization and training, both breeds can be extremely friendly and loving to everyone. Image Credit: , Pxhere Compatibility with Other Pets As with friendliness, this more dependent on training and socialization than anything else. At their core, however, neither breed is particularly fond of other animals. The sad truth is that both breeds have been used as fighting dogs in the past. Also, they both have fairly strong prey drives, so it might not be the best idea to bring a cat in the house. In fact, Rottweilers are much more likely to tolerate cats in the house than other dogs. Grooming Requirements Rottweilers are fairly low-maintenance, as they have short coats and only tend to shed seasonally. As a result, you can get away with only brushing a Rottie occasionally. German Shepherds, on the other hand, have extremely dense, long coats, and their fur gets absolutely everywhere. Both should be fine with only a couple baths a year, unless, of course, they find something disgusting to roll in. Frequently Asked Questions Which is better for families with small children? Either the Rottweiler or German Shepherd can be perfect for families with kids — and either breed can be a disaster. Once again, it all comes down to proper training and socialization. You also need to teach your kids how to behave around canines; doing so will protect them from any dogs they come across, not just your own. Which makes for a better therapy dog? Both are commonly used as therapy dogs, as both have the intelligence and discipline to handle any task asked of them. If you see any of these, stop the activity immediately and consult a licensed trainer or behavioralist. Which breed is more expensive to own? Oh, how they can eat. Expect to spend more on dog food if you get a Rottweiler. While these dogs are fantastic and worth every bit of trouble they cause, they do make moving a bit of a hassle. Which breed drools more? If you welcome puppy kisses, though, Rottweilers should be your pick. What should I look for in a puppy? Be sure to actually visit the breeder before buying, and look for any signs that the dogs are abused or neglected. Also, check and see how the breeder interacts with the dogs. Do they seem to love the animals, or are they seen as nuisances? Bring your kids with you so you can see how it responds to children as well. Ask the staff there for their opinions as well most dogs undergo temperament tests in animal shelters. Rottweiler vs German Shepherd — Which to Choose? German Shepherds are slightly less expensive to own , love to play, and take commands very literally. They also require about twice the amount of exercise and exponentially more grooming. Rottweilers, on the other hand, are extremely powerful, food-motivated, and love to test boundaries. Both breeds are known for their large size, intelligence, and loyal nature. Rottweilers, with distinctive black and tan coats, are typically pretty enormous and have a more muscular body. On the other hand, German Shepherds are slightly smaller and typically have a black and tan or all-black coat. Both breeds are excellent family pets but require firm, consistent training to prevent aggressive behavior. Overall, these breeds are beloved by many for their courage, loyalty, and protective instincts. Rottweiler vs. While the breeds may be similar, the Rottweiler generally has a bulkier build with more muscle mass, while the German Shepherd has a leaner and more agile frame. Additionally, Rottweilers typically have a short, glossy coat in shades of black and brown, while the German Shepherd has a thick fur coat ranging from black and tan to sable. The differences in their appearance may contribute to their respective roles as working breeds. Ultimately, both breeds are stunning in their own ways and are loved by their families for their unique characteristics. Size Rottweilers are generally larger than German Shepherds, with males weighing up to pounds and standing between inches at the shoulder. Meanwhile, German Shepherds are usually not more than 85 pounds and stand inches tall. Coat Rottweilers have a short, dense coat that is black with tan markings. The fur of a German Shepherd is also double-layered, but it can be either long or short and comes in many different colors, including black, tan, white, and sable. Training Both breeds are highly trainable and make great service dogs, but the training methods used for each breed may differ slightly. Rottweilers may respond best to positive reinforcement techniques such as reward-based training. In contrast, German Shepherds may be better suited for corrections or commands when learning new tasks. However, they have different behavioral traits that potential owners should consider. Rottweilers have a protective nature and are known for their defensive instincts. They are wary of strangers and can go wild if they feel any threat. However, German Shepherds are more social and easier to train. They are loyal and obedient, making them the go-to breed for law enforcement and military work. Moreover, below mentioned personality differences will help you further to make a more informed decision. Personality and Temperament When choosing between a Rottweiler and a German Shepherd, understanding their unique personalities and temperaments is crucial in making an informed decision. Both breeds are large, loyal, and intelligent, but notable differences exist. Rottweilers tend to be more reserved and calm, while German Shepherds are more outgoing and lively. Additionally, Rottweilers are also known for their unwavering loyalty and protectiveness toward their family. German Shepherds are highly trainable and excel in working roles such as police or military dogs. Due to their size, Rottweilers may require more food and larger beds, which could result in higher monthly costs. On the other hand, German Shepherds may have higher veterinary costs due to potential health issues such as hip dysplasia. Pros and Cons: Rottweiler Vs. German Shepherd Choosing between these two dog breeds can be challenging for any canine enthusiast. It is because both breeds have their advantages and drawbacks. Rottweilers are known for their imposing size and defensive nature, making them perfect guard dogs. However, their reputation can also make them intimidating to strangers, and they require plenty of socialization and training. German Shepherds are smart, loyal, and easy to train, making them ideal for families. They also have an incredibly strong sense of smell and are often used as police or service dogs. However, they can be prone to health issues and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Exercise Requirements As two dog breeds with high energy levels, the Rottweiler and German Shepherd have unique exercise requirements to keep them happy and healthy. Rottweilers are known for their powerful build and require daily exercise for at least an hour, with a mix of walks, jogs, and playtime. On the other hand, German Shepherds are bred for herding and require a lot of mental stimulation through activities such as obedience training, agility courses, and interactive playtime. Both breeds benefit significantly from regular exercise, which can help reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being. Grooming Needs Rottweilers have a short double coat, which means they require minimal grooming. Brush your Rottweiler once or twice a week to remove any loose hair or dirt. You should also check for any fleas or ticks when you brush your Rottweiler. On the other hand, German Shepherds have a thick double coat that sheds year-round, requiring more frequent brushing and grooming. While each breed has specific needs, keeping up with grooming will help your Rottweiler or German Shepherd look their best and ensure they stay healthy and happy for years. Life Expectancy Rottweilers usually live between years on average, while German Shepherds have a life expectancy of around years. However, both breeds can live longer if given the proper care and nutrition. Bear in mind that the rottweiler is significantly larger, and will therefore need a lot more space and food. When it comes to exercise requirements they are both breeds of high energy levels and need lots of daily exercise to stay happy. In addition, the cost of ownership can vary dramatically depending on factors such as specific dietary requirements, health expenses, adequate training, and more. Whether you get a Rottweiler or a German Shepherd, it is essential to carefully consider the pros and cons of either breed before bringing them into your home. But, also remember, that each dog has its own personality and characteristics. Above all, your dogs personality will be shaped after how you raise them. Giving them mountains of love and a few treats will inevitably produce a loving dog. Thank you for reading this article! Keen for another comparison between two dog breeds? Head over to uncover the differences between the Beagle Vs. Many people living in apartments, especially those who live alone, consider getting a dog for companionship. Having a dog definitely lessens the feeling of loneliness and adds comfort and affection to an otherwise solitary space. However, not all dogs are suitable for apartment living. Several factors contribute to whether a specific breed is compatible with a smaller space or bigger houses with fenced yards. Generally, smaller dogs fare better in apartment living. This is simply because they require less space to move around, and smaller breeds require less exercise than their larger counterparts. They are also a bit easier to maintain especially for busy apartment dwellers. However, there are matters that you need to consider carefully before committing to a GSD or a Rottweiler. German Shepherds Can Be Good Apartment Dogs Although not ideal, German Shepherds can definitely thrive in apartment living , thanks to their high adaptability to changing environments. But you should be prepared to meet the following conditions to provide your GSD an good life while living in a relatively small space: Breed-restriction Laws In some states, apartments impose breed-restriction laws on their tenants, which means that there are specific breeds that are not permitted. The idea behind these laws is to prevent dog attacks by potentially dangerous breeds. Unfortunately, GSDs are one of those prohibited breeds. However, some private apartment owners can be negotiated with, but corporate owners are much harder to convince, as they carry much higher liability for any such occurrence. In the case of the latter, their decision must be respected and you are left with the choice of moving to another apartment that accepts GSDs or choosing another breed. Exercise You need to exercise your GSD daily. If your apartment does not have a spacious area where you can exercise your dog, it must at least have a nearby park that you can visit everyday. Remember that exercise is a must for active dogs like German Shepherds! As a rule of thumb, your German Shepherd must have at least 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise daily. Separation Anxiety You should not leave your GSD alone for long periods of time, as they are prone to separation anxiety. As a rule of thumb, adult GSDs should only be left alone for a maximum of four hours, while puppies should be left alone no longer than three hours. Neighbors Your GSD must be trained to behave well around your neighbors. Keep in mind that many people are very scared of large dogs. Noise GSDs are vocal dogs, and they will bark a lot especially if they are untrained! If your apartment has weak soundproofing or thin walls, this can be very annoying for your neighbors who only want to live peacefully inside their units. Shedding GSDs shed a lot, thanks to their double coats. Consequently, you must prepare yourself to clean your apartment often to get rid of all the hair. Adult Rottweilers Do Better in Apartments Rottweilers can cope living inside apartments, but keep in mind that adult Rotts are more suitable for this type of space than puppies because of their lower energy levels. Rott puppies are very high-energy dogs. Because they are bred as working dogs, they will be very curious and will always look for something to do. All that pent-up energy should be channeled into something useful like exercise. Otherwise, the puppy will become bored and turn to destructive behaviors such as chewing objects or digging. Your Rottweiler puppy will need at least two walks a day and an additional hour of playtime. This is a commitment that you should be aware about, since it can be too much to handle for an owner who is always busy. The need for exercise is exactly why a fenced yard is perfect for high-energy dogs such as GSDs and Rotts. When a Rott puppy becomes an adult, he will naturally become less active, so living in an apartment will not be much of a problem. However, a Rottweiler will still need sufficient daily exercise to prevent weight gain, since Rotts, being naturally heavyset, are very prone to obesity. Frequent Potty Time Because puppies have less control over their bladder, they will need to go to the bathroom very often — usually every 30 minutes to 1 hour. It is important to establish where the bathroom is for your puppy while he is still young. Ideally, train him to take a pee outside to avoid the difficulty of transitioning him from peeing inside to outside. Socialization Rottweilers are very social dogs; they love being with their owners all the time. Nevertheless, they are not very keen on other dogs, which is why socialization that starts from an early age is very important. Socialization lessens the manifestation of undesirable traits, the most prominent being aggression. As dogs who always like to see where their master is, Rottweilers can do well in a small space where they will not have to follow them around. But if you leave your Rott alone in the apartment for several hours, he may become bored and anxious and act out by destroying things, digging, barking incessantly, whining, or peeing everywhere. As a rule of thumb, do not leave your Rottweiler alone for more than 6 hours a day. And do not do this abruptly. Rather, transition slowly and in increments. If you have to leave him for longer than that, consider getting a dogsitter. Breed Restrictions Unfortunately, Rottweilers are also almost always included in the list of dog breeds that are prohibited in apartments. Always check with the management first to find out if they impose these restrictions or not. Neighbors Keep in mind that many people are fearful of big dogs in general, but more so of Rottweilers because of their popular reputation as aggressive dogs. While your dog may be well-mannered, you cannot always control how your neighbors will react in his presence. Both German Shepherds and RottweilerS are massive dogs, which is why many people often wonder if they are safe to be around children. Regardless, adult supervision is still always necessary. German Shepherds Can Be Wonderful Companions for Your Children If you search the Internet for photos of German Shepherds with children, you will most likely see a bunch of cute photos of kids cuddling these dogs. German Shepherds are natural protectors, having been bred originally as protectors of sheep and human properties. They are extremely loyal to their owners. This makes them an excellent breed to have around children! However, you need to set up your GSD for success first so that a safe, fun, and loving relationship can grow between your children and your dog. Below are some general pointers to remember that will foster a harmonious relationship between your GSD and your child: Socialization The best way to turn your GSD from an overprotective, fearful dog into a welcoming and friendly companion is to expose him to kids as early as possible. Actually, regardless of whether you have kids or not, socialization is a key part of training that is most responsible for a dog that is well-behaved around people other than the owner. If you have a child and you want to ensure that your dog will behave well around him or her, a great deal of consistent socialization is a must. The key is to expose your dog not just to your own kids but to other people — adults and children alike. This teaches your dog proper responses towards strangers, and that not everyone is out to get him. Begin socializing your puppy as soon as you get him home and be consistent about it. This is the only way that the training will be retained in your puppy for long. Training Obedience training and socialization go hand-in-hand. Both need to be introduced to your puppy as early as possible for the best possible behavior outcome. Similarly, a simple command can prevent any untoward incidents from occurring between your dog and your child. Simply put, a well-trained dog is a well-behaved dog. Be sure to read this comprehensive guide all about training your German Shepherd. This is most often true. GSDs are very active dogs, hence their energy must be spent on physical activities to prevent boredom and make them calmer afterwards. Giving them activities to do gives them a sense of accomplishment and channels their energy into appropriate places. In this respect, you will find that your German Shepherd is not too different than you are! Simply speaking, a dog that is well-exercised keeps the high energy at bay, thus preventing excited behavior from harming your child. If your dog is bursting with too much unspent energy, he will be rougher during playtime. He may jump on your child or playfully bite more often, which can lead to serious physical injuries. Unfortunately, many parents overlook this aspect, putting all the blame on the poor dog whenever ugly situations occur. A relationship must be a two-way street. Do not expect your dog to be perfect and always gentle if he is not being treated fairly in the first place! Many dog bites in America are caused by children teasing or being too rough on dogs. Supervision All dogs can be unpredictable. Even the most well-behaved dog on the planet can snap due to a seemingly random trigger. Always supervise their interactions. This is because both breeds are huge, intelligent guard dogs with an inherent desire to protect their owners. Born with a natural self-confidence and a watchful nature, Rottweilers can be excellent protectors of children. They are also goofy and playful, making them entertaining and rewarding pets for your kids. But for Rottweilers and children to hang out together peacefully, the same key principles must be followed: socialization, training, exercise, education, and supervision. The only difference, perhaps, is that Rottweilers need firmer obedience training because they have the tendency to be stubborn , especially the males. They are quite intelligent dogs that can pick up commands easily, but they are at times known to challenge their owners during training. Hence, training should be done early, firmly, and consistently. However, this also means they can become jealous easily when a new member enters the family. Male Rottweilers tend to mature slower than females. Female Rotts tend to be calmer and easier to command and may be more appropriate for your child. On the other hand, it can also be disaster for your kid. A simple excited jump can unintentionally knock down your child. While Rotts are sturdy and blocky, never allow your child to ride on their back as this can still hurt the dog. This is where your supervision matters. Never leave your Rottweiler and your child alone! Include your child in the training of your Rottweiler. Training should NEVER include any physical punishments such as hitting or pinning the dog to the ground. This is cruel and counterproductive and can lead to undesired behavior in your Rottweiler. This information might be useful if you have other dogs or cats in the house or are planning to bring home a new one. German Shepherds Can Coexist with Other Dogs Generally, German Shepherds can live peacefully with other dogs in the house provided that they have been socialized early. Socialization means exposing your GSD to other dogs, animals, people, places, and senses. This helps your dog adjust his behavior towards creatures other than him and teaches him the idea that not everything that moves is a prey. Socialization also reduces anxiety in your GSD, which can sometimes manifest as aggression. It helps your dog stay calm and confident in most situations. The key to a successful socialization that yields the best results is timing and consistency. Patience and consistency are key to making this successful. They view other dogs as threats or enemies. Sometimes, there are other reasons behind the aggression that are not covered by socialization training. These are the following: Your dog has experienced trauma or negative experiences from other dogs in the past. There is a sudden change in lifestyle or the environment, such as moving into another location or welcoming a new member of the family. While GSDs are generally adaptable and flexible, individual dogs can still exhibit different responses. Your dog is not spayed. In this case, the hormones responsible for the aggression are still active. Your dog is ill. For a more in-depth discussion on this topic, be sure to read this informative article: How to Socialize Your German Shepherd German Shepherds and Cats While the thought of a big dog with a high prey drive and a cautious cat together can be hard to imagine, the truth is that German Shepherds and cats can get along nicely most of the time. But it may still depend on the individual personalities of both animals and their past experiences which may shape their present reactions. The most obvious instances are chasing little animals such as squirrels and cats and biting or chewing furniture, or even your hand! Of course, with proper socialization between the two animals, coexistence is definitely possible. The keys to preventing a disastrous first meeting is to start slow , create a safe space for the cat where she can be protected from a potential attack e. Rottweilers and Other Dogs Rottweilers are territorial dogs, and they may have issues particularly with dogs of the same sex. Despite that, coexistence between a Rott and another dog in the household is definitely possible if the Rott has been exposed to other animals while he is young. The most important requirement for setting up a peaceful relationship between a Rott and another dog is your training and supervision. Armed with the knowledge that Rotts can have aggressive tendencies, it is your responsibility as the owner then to make sure that your dog is even-tempered. Muzzling Your Dog: Good or Bad? In fact, in some countries like Singapore , muzzling a Rottweiler or a German Shepherd is required when visiting public areas. Proper muzzling also requires training, so be sure to start at an early age so that your pup becomes accustomed to it. Waiting until your dog is older to muzzle train can be a traumatic experience for them. Always remember to supervise your dog at all times even if he is trained, as he can snap into instinctive protective behavior if he perceives something as a threat. Rottweilers and Cats Rottweilers and cats can live together peacefully inside the same house provided that they have been properly socialized together when they are young. It can be said that Rotts get along even better with cats than with other dogs of the same sex. The same guidelines in proper introductions apply: There must be a safe space for the cat to run to or hide. The dog must be leashed at the first meeting. Introduction must be gradual, starting with scents first and then slowly moving on to face-to-face meetings. All interactions must be supervised. What Are Their Grooming Requirements? German Shepherds and the Rottweiler have essentially the same grooming requirements with a few small differences. We will now highlight these differences below. Keep in mind, however, that German Shepherds will require more brushing because they are heavy shedders, which can be attributed to their thick double coats. A simple slicker brush like the Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush can effectively rake the finer undercoat of your dog. Nail trimming: Nails should not be overlooked in grooming dogs, as they can hurt the dog and its owners once they get too long. To trim the nails, you can either use clippers or a nail grinder. Dental care: Like humans, dogs also need their teeth cleaned to keep their breath fresh and to prevent mouth diseases. Ideally, brushing should be daily or at least several times a week using a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste. Dental chews also help clean the teeth. Ear cleaning. Rottweilers have a flat, medium-length outer coat all over their bodies and an undercoat on the neck and thighs. However, it must still be done weekly to minimize shedding. Unlike GSDs, Rotts are only seasonal shedders , but they may shed moderately throughout the year. Some adult Rotts with dominant personalities may feel uncomfortable with being brushed all the way down the back. Unless your Rottweiler gets dirty very often, bathing every few months is enough. Toothbrushing and nail trimming must be done weekly. Because they are black dogs, they have black nails that are trickier to trim. Here is a straightforward video on how to trim black nails on a large dog: Grooming Pros and Cons.

We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. As a dedicated Labrador parent, one of your primary responsibilities is ensuring your pup remains healthy and achieves all growth milestones based on his age. However, some of the most overwhelming factors to crack through are size and weight. So, is your Lab puppy too small for his age? Your Lab puppy might be too small if it weighs less than 12 lbs 5. Lab puppies generally weigh about 2 lbs 1 kg with every week of growth. If your puppy weighs a lot less than that, he may be too small for his age. If you're worried that your pup might be too small for his age, you're in the right place. In this article, I'll outline Lab puppies' size and weight facts to help you understand where your young canine friend stands. Keep reading! In this article How Much a Lab Puppy Should Weigh This is one of the most common concerns and one of the most challenging to address directly. This is because a puppy's weight and size may differ based on his gender, genetic composition, or underlying conditions. However, there's a trick that may help you determine your pup's weight range. In most cases, average puppies add about 2 lbs 1 kg with every week of growth. And just like the weight, Lab puppies have different sizes. You may notice a huge size variance in a litter of Lab puppies. Some may appear too big or too small for their age. Below are 3 factors that can affect a Lab puppy's size and weight. Genetic May Affect Size A canine's size is partially genetic. Therefore, a Lab puppy born of small parents may inherit the genes and appear smaller for his age. However, this isn't always the case because some small-parents puppies sometimes grow into huge dogs. So, it's possible to note a considerable size variance on puppies from the same litter. Diet Greatly Influences Weight A puppy's diet also has a lot to do with his size and weight. Poorly fed puppies may fail to grow properly. Thus they may be low in weight and small in size. When feeding puppies, it isn't always about the amount of food the pup consumes but rather the nutritional value. So, to be on the safe side, it's advisable to consult your vet on the right foods for your pup based on his age. Health Problems Can Inhibit Growth Puppies that have been ill or have underlying conditions may portray slow growth. Their size and weight may be small compared to healthy pups within the same age limit. However, you shouldn't worry about this because such puppies often catch up later after recovery. Note that this chart only gives a weight limit, and it doesn't mean your puppy should weigh precisely that. It's only meant to help you protect your pup's weight and easily point out when he's seriously under or overweight. Labrador Retriever Puppy Growth Chart and Development with Pictures Large breed dogs, like Labs, gain weight and grow rather rapidly in their first year. They also develop certain skills at approximately the same time. Lab puppies at this age are entirely dependent on their mother. They are born without teeth, vision, or hearing. The mother Lab will also stimulate them to eliminate and eat their waste to keep her nesting area clean. Most Lab puppies will have their eyes opened at 2 weeks of age, and their ears will begin to open around this time too. This period can be called the awakening of senses, as they are growing to be more conscious and inquisitive. Try to spend some time with each puppy daily, so they get used to being handled. They should not be removed from their litter for more than 10 minutes at a time as this could cause them to miss out on important life lessons. Mama dogs will teach her pups some discipline and dogs that are taken from their mom before this age often suffers from behavioral issues. You should handle them often and can begin basic training. Treat your puppy gently, with no harsh discipline. Your 8-week-old Lab puppy will be able to start sleeping through the night and have better control over its bowel movements. Potty training can be introduced at this age, but you should avoid bringing them to crowded places. Most puppies get their first vaccination before heading to their new homes. You should keep your new puppy away from other dogs until they complete their vaccinations to prevent them from contracting infectious diseases like distemper or parvovirus. Lab puppies eating their dog food At 2 months, Lab puppies should be fed 4 small meals a day. Knowing how much to feed them is key. Your Lab puppy will begin to test you in order to figure out what their position is in the family. Labrador Retriever puppies at 3 months might ignore commands they are familiar with. Some dogs might start nipping. To combat this, direct them to chew appropriate toys instead. Be patient with them and keep reinforcing positive behavior because they will grow out of it soon enough. They are still establishing their role in the pack and might assert their dominance over little children or pets. You can start incorporating other activities like obedience or agility to divert their attention and help them understand their role in the family better. Some dogs will go through another fearful stage at this age. You can help them through it by desensitizing them and being kind and understanding. They are still puppies at this age, after all. They should not be forced to face their fears in hopes they will get used to it. Appropriate exposure with lots of praise, attention, and treats will do the trick. They will have grown into the dog they are meant to be and will have a consistent personality. They should also have settled into a routine and know their place in the family. Following a UK study, Labs grow into their adult weight by their 1-year-old birthday. Mentally, Labradors will stay a puppy till they are 2 or 3 years old, but some never really do grow up. When Do Labs Stop Growing? Lab puppies generally gain 2 lbs 1 kg a week from birth until they are 6 months old. After that, their weight gain tapers off slowly. Most people think that dogs mature at the same age, but small dogs like a Terrier or a Pomeranian might reach adulthood at 9 months of age whereas a Great Dane might fully mature at 3 years of age. It has been noted that they reach their full height at 1 year of age, and their adult weight at 2 years of age. How to weigh a Labrador dog? Weighing your dog is a good way to keep track of its growth. A less strenuous and stressful way to weigh your dog would be to buy a weighing scale for dogs and weigh them regularly. You can incorporate this into your dog training and reward them every time they stay still on a scale. There are reasonably priced pet scales on Amazon but if you do not have a budget for a dog weighing machine, you can get your dog weighed at the vet. This is because muscle weighs more than fat. A chubby-looking Labrador might have the same weight as a lean and strong Lab. Testing Physical Appearance There is a system called BCS or Body Condition Scoring that allows owners and health providers to assess whether their dog is at a healthy weight from a glance. There are 9 levels, with the 1st level representing extreme emaciation, level 5 being optimally fit, and level 9 being life-threateningly obese. However, if they are outside of that spectrum, you might want to consider seeing a specialist as your dog might have some underlying health issues. It can also cause lots of health problems such as joint problems, respiratory or heart diseases, and even cancer. The bad news is that Labradors are prone to obesity due to their genetics. A large portion of the Labrador population has a malfunctioning POMC gene that stops them from being full. Even without the condition, Labs are notoriously greedy! Look at Midnight eating in her dreams: Hyperthyroidism and Insulinoma are disorders that can cause unexplainable weight gain. How to help your Labrador achieve a healthy weight? If they are suffering from certain disorders, you will need to treat them first. If they are simply being fed too much, remove any excess calories from their diet by cutting down treats including table scraps! You can also encourage them to move more through exercise, play, or work. Being too thin is also unhealthy, especially if your puppy is still growing. Weight loss or not being able to gain weight can be caused by worms, illness, or a lack of calories. Active dogs will need to be fed more than those that lead sedentary lifestyles. What you can do is increase their intake and monitor their growth rate. Another commonly asked question is when to fix their male or female Labradors. The general consensus is that you should fix your dog around 6 months, but there are new studies to suggest that early neutering might create more problems for your dog. Another specialized study suggests pet owners to neuter or spay after 37 weeks. This prevents excessive growth that can aggravate hip or joint problems. Will my Lab still grow after being neutered? Depending on when your dog is neutered. If it is neutered after sexual maturity, it will most likely have already reached its adult size and will not grow any taller. However, most neutered pets gain weight much more easily due to a decrease in sex hormones. This will cause their metabolic rate to slow down so you should adjust their diet accordingly. Differences between variations of Labrador Retrievers English Labs are show dogs that are bred to be more heavyset. Therefore, they can be slightly on the heavy side. As for American or working dogs, they are generally more athletic and lighter. Gender also plays a role in their weight, with females nearing the lighter end of the spectrum and males being on the heavier side. Chocolate Labs and White Labs are usually bred for the show ring. It is entirely possible to have an English Fox Red and vice versa for all other colors. Leading a healthy lifestyle will keep your pup healthy. Further reading: Additional puppy growth chart guides. When do labs Stop Growing? Labs need to fill out more than smaller breeds as they are medium to large-sized dogs. Usually, an average Lab will be at full height and weight by their first birthday. Is Your Labrador Retriever Healthy? Labrador Retrievers are the perfect family pet. Not only are Labs wonderful companions, but their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and love for life make them ideal members of any household. The best way to guarantee that happiness? Preventative care! This condition can cause pain and make it difficult for your pup to move freely. Due to CHD, they may also develop arthritis in the hip area as they age. Some dogs with CHD have normal hips as puppies, but they can develop joint instability later in life. Unfortunately, CHD affects medium to large dog breeds, with the Lab amongst those dogs with a higher chance of developing this condition. Recognizing the early signs of this progressive disease will help you get treatment for your dog so he has an active life filled with joy instead of pain or discomfort. An old Labrador Retriever is especially prone to developing this disease. Osteoarthritis, or Degenerative Joint Disease DJD , is a progressive inflammation of the joints caused by deterioration and breakdown in cartilage. This action leads to an increase in friction, which causes significant pain for dogs. In cases of osteoarthritis, this cartilage cushion begins to break down because of factors such as age or injury. If a dog has canine atopic dermatitis, the immune system reacts too strongly to common environmental allergens absorbed through the skin, such as mold spores and grass. A dog with atopic dermatitis will typically show signs and symptoms between 3 months to 6 years of age. Labrador Retrievers are amongst the most common dog breeds to develop food and skin allergies. Gastric Distention and Volvulus Bloat Canine bloat , or gastric distention and volvulus GDV , is a condition where the stomach swells abnormally. Bloat is a serious condition that requires immediate emergency care. Dogs of all shapes and sizes can bloat, but some breeds are more susceptible than others. Unfortunately, Labradors are at the top of the list for susceptibility to this condition. The causes of bloat in Labs and other dogs are unknown, but there is likely a genetic element. Dogs who recover from bloating should never be used as breeding stock again. Got a Lab? Get Pet Insurance Coverage You love your dog like a child, but you cannot control what your puppy is dealt with in the genetics department. Health struggles can affect your Labrador Retriever, and his genes will determine what medical conditions or diseases he develops. What if cancer happens? What else might go wrong with your dog in an emergency that will require immediate attention? As a dog owner, you want to make sure that your Lab pup has the best chance possible at living a healthy and happy life. A pet insurance policy will handle any medical issue or expense which may come your way, which is a significant help, especially with how expensive veterinary bills can get. Get insurance quotes today and see for yourself how much better life will be with this coverage. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. Labrador puppy weight. It can be hard to know what the right weight is for your specific pup. An American Lab is likely to weigh less than an English Lab in general, but not always! How much do Labs weigh in general? Male Labradors weigh between 60lbs and 80lbs, while females weigh in at between 55lbs and 75lbs. But many healthy Labradors fall outside these averages. As you can see, there is quite a range! Labrador Puppy Weight Lots of our readers want to know how much should my Labrador weigh at this age or that age. Labrador puppies are growing fast, and their weight is constantly changing. We used the data from our forum to create the Lab weight chart below. If you want a rough idea of how much your pup should weigh at different stages of their young life, just compare them to this chart and see how they match up. But remember, average Labrador weight is not totally straight forward… Average Labrador Weight Labradors come in a wide variety of sizes. So average Labrador Retriever weight figures can be misleading. As a very rough guide an adult female Labrador might weigh between 55 and 70lbs. An adult male Lab will weigh 65 — 80lbs. Female Lab weight will on average be lower than male Lab weight, but as you can see there is a considerable cross over. But Labradors also come in a couple of different types, and his type will have an impact upon his ideal Labrador weight. English Labs bred from show lines are likely to be at the upper end of the scale. You can expect English Lab weight to be around 60 — 70 lbs for a female and 70 — 80 lbs for a male. Some of our chunkier, show bred Labs can be a good twenty pounds or more heavier than their field bred cousins, without necessarily being overweight. Whereas the American Lab who is field bred is likely to be at the lower end of average. Volume for volume, muscle weighs more. So it is worth bearing in mind, that a very fit dog will have more muscle and may weigh more than an unfit dog of similar dimensions. Black Lab Weight In theory there should be no difference in weight between Labradors of different colors. Black Labrador weight for an English black Lab will probably be at the higher end of the range, for an American black Lab it will likely be lower. Black Labs are frequently found in both these categories, but some Lab colors differ. For example the chocolates. Chocolate Lab Weight Chocolate Labs are more likely to be show bred than field bred. English Labs weigh more than American Labs in general, and may therefore be at the higher end of average when it comes to weight. This is because yellow Labs are commonly found in both categories. White Labs are more likely to be English Labs, and will therefore probably be at the heavier end of the scale. Fox red Labs are normally American Labs, and will often be thinner in build and therefore lighter in weight. The way to effectively judge whether your Lab is at an ideal weight is not through the scales. It is by feel and appearance. You should not be able to see ribs, but if you press firmly along his sides you should just be able to feel your fingers bumping along them. But in most cases it really is not necessary to weigh your puppy every day, or even every week! Any more than you would weigh your three year old child on a daily or even weekly basis. There are however, some exceptions. Very thin puppies Occasionally we have people post up about puppies that are desperately underweight and clearly failing to thrive. Most of these comments come from people that have purchased puppies that are not ready to leave their mothers, and should not have been sold by the breeder. Some of these puppies are as young as three weeks old. If you have inadvertently been sucked into this horrible trade in underage puppies, do contact a vet for help with feeding your puppy, as a matter of urgency. If you are concerned that your puppy might be seriously underweight, again, your vet is the first port of call. As a very rough guide, many Labrador puppies will weigh around a kilo for every week of their lives. So you would expect a ten week puppy to weigh something in the region of ten kilos or around twenty-two pounds. A twenty percent variation around this would be fairly normal. If your puppy falls outside this variation he may still be perfectly healthy, but if you are inexperienced, a check with the vet is a good way to put your mind at rest. Should I Weigh My Dog? You may need to weigh your dog if he needs medical treatment. Determining the appropriate dose of some drugs requires that we know the exact weight of the patient. But in this case your veterinarian will probably do it for you at their check-ups and assessments. The main reasons to weigh a dog are loss or gain. Trying to put weight on a very thin puppy? You may want to check your progress with regular weigh-ins for a while to make sure they are sufficiently gaining weight. Trying to help your adult Labrador weight decrease? Checking their weight each week will help you to know that you are succeeding, along with visual checks. How to weigh a dog If you need to weigh a puppy, and he is small enough to hold in your arms, you can do this at home. Just weigh yourself on the bathroom scales without him, then weigh yourself again whilst holding the dog, and subtract the first weight from the second. This is accurate enough for most purposes. Larger dogs will need to be weighed on purpose built scales. Most vet surgeries have one in the waiting room, and some pet stores have them too. Really tiny dogs can be weighed accurately on a good sized set of kitchen scales. For once, this is a situation where appearances really do count. Try to get into the habit of looking at your dog objectively and of avoiding comparing with other dogs, many of whom will be overweight. You may find that some other dog owners will tell you your nice slim Labrador is actually too thin. This happens a lot, largely because people are simply getting used to so many dogs being overweight, including some of those receiving the highest accolades in our show rings. Again, if you are worried, check with your vet, but the chances are if someone is telling you this that actually your dog is healthy, and it is really their dog who is overweight. The Lab puppy weight chart shows you the average weight for male and female Labs every month from 2 months old, up until 12 months if you have a puppy Lab, check out our New Puppy Checklist to learn more about what to bring home for your first 24 hours and beyond. Doing so helps you and your veterinarian keep your puppy healthy. Are There Different Sizes of Labradors? Among the retriever breeds, the Labrador is one of the largest, where an adult male can top the scales at 80 pounds. Labrador Retrievers may differ in size due to individual variation and outside influences, such as the amount or type of food they eat, the amount or frequency of exercise they get, or underlying health conditions that may affect appetite or growth. But overall, a retriever should ideally hit a 5 out of 9 on the body condition score, regardless of the actual weight number on a scale. A healthy size Labrador has an evident abdominal tuck and observable waist, viewed from both the side and top of the dog. The AKC considers Lab puppies to be in adulthood when they reach 12 to 18 months of age, though there are outliers — those who grow faster or slower, reaching maturity either before 1 year old or not until 2 years old. Like other large dog breeds, Labs go through multiple stages of puppyhood until they reach adulthood. The average height for Labrador puppies is largely unknown due to insufficient data, but the average adult Labrador Retriever gets to be about inches tall at the shoulder. These numbers are contingent on the puppy receiving top-notch care, good nutrition, and appropriate levels of exercise. Different factors, such as health, breeding practices, and nutrition, may alter these estimated numbers. The below Labrador weight calculator can help you determine approximately how big your Labrador will be. But there are dogs who will fall outside of these parameters. The Waltham Petcare Science Institute offers puppy growth charts for veterinarians to use with their clients. You can also learn more about the ideal size and weight at different ages for different breeds with our Goldendoodle growth chart , a Golden Retriever size chart , Great Dane growth chart , or Chihuahua size chart. For that advice, consult your veterinarian.

When they are guarding If they cannot cope with being alone As well as the reasons above for why dogs bark, many people often ask the questions: Why do dogs bark at night? Why do dogs bark at other dogs? Why do dogs bark at certain people? Why do dogs bark at the door? The rest of this article will take each item in the two lists above and give a basic description of why they bark at these times. So if your labs barking is a nuisance you can determine what triggers need to be addressed. But also knowing why they bark will hopefully make you more understanding and perhaps accepting of your dogs actions. And when bored they will often try desperately hard to get some social interaction and they do this by barking for attention. Barking for attention often becomes the behavior they revert to at these times. Dogs Bark When They Are Scared Dogs can be scared of all sorts of things like certain people, other animals or particular situations and environments. You can tell if a dog is scared by their posturing and body language. The scared look is very recognizable. Like When you come home from a long stay away or when you pick up their leash before taking them for a walk. They will become very excitable, highly alert and bark loudly and incessantly. This can be a real problem if a dog feels they have to guard a large yard and can result in them patrolling the perimeter, barking non-stop at any people, animals, bikes or cars that pass by. Obviously this can become a huge annoyance. Dogs Bark If They Cannot Cope With Being Alone Separation anxiety is a very serious problem that puts a dog into a very high state of stress, leading to destructive behaviors and excessive barking. Whereas a dog barking through boredom can spend hours alone if properly stimulated the rest of the day and left with appropriate toys to keep them occupied. First of all, dogs have extremely sensitive hearing and can hear things much fainter and further away than we can. The noises these animals make during an otherwise very quiet night are highly stimulating to dogs and they react to this by barking. A Change In Their Environment If your dog undergoes a massive change in their environment it can cause feelings of insecurity and fear of the new unknown and they may start to bark at night. They may be full of pent-up and unspent energy, wanting to explore, play and burn off this energy. But with everyone else asleep, or at least in bed, they will feel bored and isolated and will bark for attention and through frustration and boredom. Wolves, coyotes and many wild and feral dogs can be found howling and barking the whole night through. If one starts, many others in earshot will respond and a single howling or barking dog can start a chain reaction that can traverse a whole city. You may not hear the trigger that starts your dog off howling, but they may be able to hear the howl or barks of another dog 15 streets away. You might also be interested in:. Alberta, Canada Hi there and welcome here! Don't worry, you are not alone and your pup is a perfectly normal Labrador. We have a special name for these here, we call them "crocopups" and many have suffered the same treatment from one. Quick tip - yelping at your pup will not work, as you have found. She will just get more excited. Basically what you want to do is redirect her to something appropriate to chew, like a toy. The article linked to above will explain it all As for the barking.Some dogs are more vocal than others, and most puppies will bark in excitement or when they need you, or need to go outside. To be honest I know that people have dogs in apartments and it can work but I have never had to do this. Maybe letting your neighbours know you have a small puppy and you will work at training her to get quieter as she gets older would help at the moment. Hopefully someone with more experience with this will be along to help. Please be aware though that some dogs are just naturally more vocal than others. My present dog a Lab is pretty much quiet as a mouse and would do just fine in an apartment. August 7, Barking is a normal form of communication for dogs. But sometimes it can become excessive and difficult to live with! The Puppy Academy student: Lennon! Why Puppies Bark As we briefly touched on, puppies and dogs alike have a variety of reasons behind why they bark. Here are the most common instances: Protecting Territory: Some pups bark to protect their territory when other people and dogs outside of their immediate family encroach their area. Attention: Other barking triggers include trying to gain your attention for playtime, food, treats, or just some of your affection! Excitement: Some puppies are triggered by excitement usually when it comes to greeting new people and other dogs but this is usually friendly and accompanied by a wagging tail and overall relaxed body language. Separation Anxiety: Pups who aren't accustomed to being away out of sight from your, away from you, or alone when you leave the house could be barking due to separation anxiety. Did someone stop by? Are you about to leave? Once you narrow in on what the cause could be, you can determine the correct response and take the proper next steps to mitigate their barking! Introduce Sight Barriers at Home Many pups will often bark at something that drew their attention outside your window or glass door. Other times, if they are outside, they could bark at a person or another dog on the other side of the fence. In these cases, your pup may be exhibiting territorial and alarm barking at what they are seeing. Utilizing sight barriers such as a privacy fence, opaque removable plastic window film, or simply closing the blinds and curtains can all help eliminate the barking triggers and help your puppy achieve a calmer state of mind! Have your neighbors complained of barking while you're away? This barking behavior can be related to separation anxiety and can be helped by making your puppy feel more comfortable and confident in a safe space of their own! Set up either a dog crate, playpen, or room where you can block out sights and sounds from the outside. Cover their crate with blankets or towels, draw down the blinds and curtains, plus you can use white noise like a fan or TV, for example, to help eliminate noises from the outside and make them feel more secure on their own. In this situation, you can provide them with an activity to keep their brain engaged and help relieve them of that extra energy! Chew toys are also a great way to keep your puppy engaged in doing something other than barking. A Kong toy that you can stuff with their favorite food or a treat like peanut butter, will keep your puppy working to get to their reward! But if you plan to give your puppy a chew toy, make sure that you are able to supervise them while they are playing with these toys. As your puppy chews, smaller pieces can break off and they could potentially ingest them. For more fun activities to do at home with your puppy, click here for our Top 10 favs! Stop Rewarding Their Barking Has your pup mastered the ability to call you on command? Chances are, when your puppy barks, you come running and give them attention. By doing this, you are actually rewarding their barking behavior! Try to reward your puppy with their favorite toy or treat when they become quiet instead. This switch will help your puppy create the association that not barking can lead to them getting something they want! To do this, you could enlist the help of your neighbor, for example, to offer your pup a treat when they arrive and once your pup is quiet! Puppy Training is Key to Help Manage Barking Having good structure in place at home by following a daily puppy schedule , plus teaching your pup a few specific training techniques can make managing your pup's barking so much easier, and save you from serious frustration! Say, for example, your puppy is barking at something they saw at the door or on the other side of the fence, calling them to you will remove them from what is triggering their barking. TIP: Having a high-value treat or toy they love, will help you grab their focus more easily! This should be the spot at home like a cot or dog bed where they go to sit or lay down, so sending them to their place is basically like sending your pup to their chill-out zone! All replays are posted afterward, and you can catch up on our last ones on our YouTube channel! Want our latest puppy tips? Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! It wants attention The reason why it does it could be that it knows that it will get extra attention from you when it barks at you. This would be more likely if it tends to do it more when you have not been giving it much attention and if you tend to give it extra attention when it does it. Instead, it would help to give it attention throughout the day by training it, exercising it and playing with it. But, it would also help to avoid rewarding it with attention when it barks unless necessary. You have been encouraging it It might be the case that you have inadvertently encouraged the behavior by giving it things that it wants when it barks. Instead of giving it things such as attention, toys or treats when it barks, try to reward it when it is well behaved and to redirect its attention before it starts barking. Boredom Labradors are meant to get quite a lot of daily exercise. When they do not get enough exercise it can cause them to behave abnormally and it could be why yours has been barking a lot. Generally, it is recommended for them to get an hour of exercise per day when they are healthy adults. Excitement Sometimes, dogs will bark when they are excited. If your Labrador tends to bark in situations such as when you are about to walk it or when you come home then it would be more likely that it is barking to show its excitement. Aggression The reason why it has been doing it could be that it is being aggressive. This would be more likely if it shows signs of aggression when it is doing it. If it is the case that your Labrador seems to bark at you in an aggressive way then the best option for you would be to get the help of a dog behaviorist in your area. Possessiveness It could also be the case that it does it because it is being possessive. This is where it is trying to protect something that it thinks belongs to it such as its spot on the bed or the food it is eating. It would be important to be careful in these situations since dogs can become aggressive when they are resource guarding. If your Labrador is a puppy then it would be very important to train it out of this behavior now while it is still young. You can watch the video for some advice on what to do about your Labrador resource guarding. It is being dominating The reason why it does it could be that it is being dominating. This would be more likely if it barks in situations such as when you sit where it would normally sit and if it is reluctant to follow your command. In this case, it would be important to give it lots of training so that it learns how to behave. Things to consider Below are some things you can consider when trying to figure out why your Labrador has been barking at you. When it started barking If it did not always bark at you, it would help to consider what else happened when it first started doing it since it might be the case that there was an event that caused it to start doing it. If it started barking suddenly then it would help to consider what else changed at around the same time that it started barking. Things to consider would be: If it might have gotten injured If you moved home If someone was aggressive towards it When and where it barks It would also help to consider the timing of when it barks since the timing could also have something to do with it. For example, if it barks more at around the same time that you would normally walk it then it might be trying to remind you to walk it. The way that it barks It would also help to consider the body language that it shows when barking. If it seems to be doing it aggressively or you feel like it is warning you not to go near it then the best option would be to get the help of a dog behaviorist who will help you train it in a secure manner. How to get your Labrador stop barking at you Below are some things you can do about your Labrador barking at you. Positive reinforcement training One option is to use positive reinforcement training. This is where you encourage the behaviors you want to see by rewarding your Labrador when it displays them and avoid rewarding it when it does not. To use it to get your Labrador to stop barking you would do something such as: Stop giving it attention when it starts barking at you Give it attention when it stops barking at you Stop giving it attention again if it starts to bark at you again Repeat the above and reward it with treats when it does not bark at you when it normally would You can watch the video below for some more positive reinforcement tips. Avoid negative reinforcement training As mentioned above, it could be the case that you have been inadvertently training it to bark. Instead of giving it things that it wants when it barks, try to stop rewarding it when it barks and to reward it when it does not bark. By doing so you should be able to see how to train it to stop and what is causing it to do it. Be consistent When training your Labrador, it is important to be consistent. It is not likely that you will be able to get it to change its behavior drastically with just a single training session. But, you can get good results over the course of weeks and months. Jul 05, What would you say if your Labrador Retriever could talk to you? And at times, it feels like the dog is barking just to make noise. The challenge of owning a Labrador Retriever is translating and curbing their barking. Continue reading this article to learn why your Labrador barks at seemingly random times and how you can teach them to bark less. Compared to other breeds, Labs are moderate barkers. Whereas some breeds have excessive barking habits, Labs are a little more reserved. How much your pet barks comes down to temperament and personality. You can determine their temperament by looking at: How do they react to people? Are they playful, shy, or calm? A dog that gets excited around people will bark more than one who is comfortable in crowds. How developed are their socialization skills? What are their energy and activity levels? An energetic dog is less likely to exhibit quiet behavior than a docile dog. How willing are they to be trained? Some Labs are natural people pleasers and are interested in learning commands and listening when told not to bark, while others are more independent and have to get the last word in. So, you can influence their personality somewhat through proper training and socialization. For example, if your Lab spends time around other dogs that bark a lot, they might think barking is fun and engage in it more than a dog that lives a quieter lifestyle. Likewise, if you train your dog to bark when someone comes to the door, they might associate barking with pleasing their owner and start doing so more frequently. Are they barking for attention? Do they start barking when they want to go outside? On the contrary, your dog might be more laid back and passive. If this is the case, your dog may not bark much except to alert you of danger. Additionally, your dog might bark more or less based on how much you encourage it to bark. Encouraging your dog to be more vocal is fine if it works for your lifestyle, but in most cases, people want to reserve barking for important communication, not for playtime. In most cases, body language accompanies Lab barking, which can help you determine what your dog is trying to say. Labradors bark for many reasons. The most common reasons for barking are: Playing. It can cause sleepless nights, family fights, neighbour disputes and much more. The reasons for barking in any breed of dog, can be complex. And dogs can be taught to communicate without doing it. Interestingly many Labradors rarely bark at all. For those of you struggling with a noisy dog this probably seems very unfair! One of the first things we need to establish before we can stop a Labrador from barking, is why he is doing this. I understand that. But bear with me, because the method we use to stop your Labrador barking will depend very much on why he is doing it. Why Do Dogs Bark? Fortunately we usually only need to consider three different types of barking when it comes to Labs that are barking all the time and driving their owners up the wall. Types of Labrador Barking The three most common types of unwanted and frequent barking are Barking for attention, Barking at passers-by. Is Your Labrador Barking for Attention? Attention or demand barking can be very upsetting. The dog will often bark incessantly as soon as anyone gets up, moves around, or whenever he is feeling ignored. Attention barking dogs will often repeatedly take things too, socks, cushions, and then bark furiously if prevented. While all puppies vary in their natural inclination to make a noise, what happens around those puppies, as they grow up and even as adult, has a huge impact on their future behavior. The root cause of barking for attention Attention or demand barking usually starts with an exited or bored dog, combined with frustration and a big reward. Especially if they are already in an over-excited state, or bored witless. The first step in creating a dog that barks to demand attention happens when he is rewarded generously each time he does it. Very often people do this inadvertently. The dog barks, and they give him his dinner, the dog stops barking. It seems to work. How demand barking gets started Rewarding unwanted behaviors by mistake is very common. Anything that your dog finds enjoyable, even the sound of your voice, can reward and therefore reinforce the behavior that precedes it. By reinforce we mean that the behavior will be more likely to occur again. The laws of behavioral science are quite clear on this. Good consequences reinforce bad behavior. Every time. Only this time you might not want to give him what he wants. Indeed you might not be ABLE to give him what he wants. He persists, and you get fed up with the noise, so you relent and give in. And before you know where you are, you have a big, and growing, problem on your hands. Can You Cure Labrador Barking? The short answer is yes. In fact, it is one of the common behavioral problems that is relatively easy to solve. But you will need to be determined. And you will need other family members on board. Your anti-barking strategy You need to draw up your battle plan and attack this problem from three directions. Keeping your dog calm and occupied All dogs are much more likely to bark with frustration when they are over-excited or very bored. If members of your family are getting your dog in a state, winding him up, and playing rough games with him in the house, now is a good time to have a quiet word. And if your dog spends very little time in training sessions, he may be badly in need of some more of your attention and a little mental stimulation. Ten minutes, preferably morning and evening, spent training him and making him use his brain will make a world of difference. No more putting the lead on the dog when he barks for a walk. And no more opening the door when he barks to go out in the garden. Let him out when he is quiet and do it often enough to cover his bathroom requirements! All the rewards have to STOP. He is going to try even harder to begin with. Bark, bark, BARK…! But you are not going to give in are you? I thought not. You can use a snappy version of the word YES as your marker. And alway follow your marker with a reward. The reward can often take the form of giving the dog the thing you think he wants like letting him out through the dog for example , if that is possible. Why do I need a marker? Or it can simply be some food. If you are going to use much food you need to clip a treat back to your belt or keep handy pots of treats around the house. The reason you need a marker as well as the reward is because to begin with, your dog may not be quiet for very long. Try to ensure that nothing whatever happens to benefit the puppy whilst he continues to bark. This is not always easy but it is essential. Prepare to mark silence At some point the puppy will pause. That is all you can do the first time this happens. But you can prepare ahead to reduce the chances of it happening again, and to make it easier to control the behavior in the future. Avoid barking triggers Think about the circumstances that triggered the barking, and avoid them to begin with where possible. This is especially important with puppies. Puppies, for example, have very short attention spans. Being made to sit and wait for a toy or their dinner is likely to result in whining or barking. Could the dog have been very bored? Providing stuffed Kongs for him to chew can help a puppy cope with periods of boredom, keeping him occupied whilst you eat a meal for example. Breaking his day up into short chunks and ringing the changes can help to keep him occupied. For example, 30 minutes in his crate followed by 15 minutes in the garden and another 15 minutes in the house whilst you keep an eye on him, rinse and repeat. This is less likely to result in boredom than two hours in the crate, an hour digging up your roses, and another hour getting under your feet in the kitchen. With an older dog, remember to ensure that he has had sufficient exercise and some time spent training. Your puppy should not be deprived of human love and companionship. Dogs that are isolated, and lonely may develop a serious barking habit. So think hard before you kennel a dog outdoors or leave him alone in the house all day. Having said that, all puppies need to learn to spend some time alone. Albeit short periods of time to begin with. And some puppies may start barking when crated or shut in a puppy proof room. There are things you can do to avoid this risk. And only when they are quiet. This is very useful to us when we are teaching puppies to be quiet around the home and in their crate. Creating an easily closed visual barrier between you and the puppy can really help with barking and whining. You can impose the visual barrier when the dog behaves inappropriately and remove it when he behaves well. The open door technique One way of doing this is to put the puppy in a crate in another room but to position the crate where he can see you clearly whilst the door between the two rooms is open. If he is silent, the door is left open. If he makes a noise you simply close the door. This technique can be very useful when a dog has got into a habit of barking during mealtimes for example. You will find that to begin with you have to close the door a lot! But he will soon catch on. Building quiet habits in your Labrador Remember, build good habits and quiet behavior right from the start. Reward your puppy often when he is quiet and relaxed. Last but not least, remember to plan ahead so that you are prepared with distractions for those times when he is likely to be bored or demanding. Barking At Night Dogs bark at night for a number of reasons. And it is always a big deal. Puppies bark at night or early in the morning, to get company, because they need the toilet, or because they are hungry. Older dogs sometimes start barking at night because they are disturbed, and enjoy the company that results, so triggering a barking habit. We look at all this, and more in our comprehensive article on night waking and nocturnal barking in Labradors. Barking at Passers-By This is a very common problem. How many times have you had to walk the length of a garden fence with a dog flying along parallel to you and barking its head off? Even for the most dog-savvy person, this can be quite an un-nerving experience. Especially if you have small children or a nervous dog with you. As the owner of the dog in question, it can be a serious source of embarrassment. If you are worried that your Labrador barking at passers-by is upsetting people, it probably is. Barking at the window You quite often see dogs in the window of a house trying to do the same thing. Tearing up and down a window sill or along the back of a sofa, flying at the glass as though they are about to break through it. Dogs in cars can be the same. Passer-by syndrome What is happening in the situations above is a phenomenon known as passer-by syndrome. Learning theory tells us that any Labrador behavior that is immediately within seconds rewarded, will be reinforced. That is to say, the behavior will be more likely to happen again in the future. This is exactly what is happening with passer-by syndrome. They appear, then disappear again within seconds of appearing! Many dogs are a little wary of total strangers. Others quite enjoy the sound of their own voices, or simply like running up and down. So you can imagine what happens if the dog runs up and down, or gives a little bark during the few seconds that the passer by is in view. Just seconds later the passer by has gone again! If the dog finds that disappearance rewarding, and many dogs do, anything he did just before the person vanished will be reinforced. That means it is much more likely to happen again in the future. And so as time goes on, and more passers by, pass by. The barking increases. That little woof becomes another woof, then several woofs. Any running up and down also increases and gets faster. The barking and excitement is continually reinforced, and will get worse and worse. So you need to act, preferably sooner rather than later. Whilst you can reward good behavior when you are there, you cannot control what passers by do, or how your dog reacts to them when you are out of sight. Owners of a barking dog can find this very frustrating to hear, but established problems do require committed responses sometimes. Although you might feel annoyed to hear there is no quick fix, you should feel pleased that you can regain control of the situation through another means. Remove visual access Indoors, preventing your Labrador from seeing the source of his excitement can sometimes simply be a matter of closing the curtains. In gardens it is more difficult and may require the construction of a visual barrier or fence. If you live in a rented property then you will need to talk to your landlord or erect a temporary gap-free barrier behind the fixed fenceline. If you have to leave a dog alone in a car for a short period of time, you may be able to prevent visual access to passers by quite simply using a piece of cardboard against the windows. This may all seem like a big deal, but if you suspect your dog is beginning to develop passer by syndrome it is well worth nipping it in the bud. Left untreated it can become a truly unpleasant problem. Some dogs bark every time a car door slams out in the street not quite so reasonable Some dogs bark every time a door closes in your house, every time there is a footstep in the flat upstairs, every time a cup is plonked on the kitchen counter not reasonable at all and so on. If your dog does this, and constantly barks at every little sound, footstep, or voice, the chances are you have had enough of it. A great system for improving this particular problem is to teach your dog to bark on cue. If that is what you want. Like being warm, affectionate, friendly, and brilliant retrievers. Nervous or Reactive Labrador Barking? Some dogs bark out of fear or anxiety. This tends to be more of an issue outdoors in the wide world, where your dog has to meet with other dogs and people. This is demand barking so the rules above apply. Do avoid triggers that overwhelm your dog while doing the training above. Set him achievable goals.

When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun. Save to Pinterest The Stages of Puppy Growth and Development Month by Month The following are the stages of puppy growth and development, starting at birth and ending when your dog reaches adulthood. The Neonatal Stage 0 to 2 weeks This is the newborn puppy growth stage that lasts until two weeks of age. At this developmental stage, puppies are blind and deaf. Expect puppies at this point to sleep almost constantly and their mother will take care of everything, keeping them warm, feeding them, and keeping them clean. The Transitional Stage 2 to 4 weeks At this puppy growth stage , they will start to open up their eyes and respond to sounds, light, and movement around them. You will also notice a puppy at this point starting to get more mobile, although they will still tend to crawl instead of walking. They do, however, have enough strength to stand up, but will stumble a lot. A puppy in this developmental stage will just be starting to recognize their siblings and mother. Lab puppies open their eyes at about two weeks old. By this time, Labrador puppies will have their eyes fully open and most will be at least partly open. Ears open at this point too and your puppy will begin to hear. Period of Awakening of Senses 3 to 4 weeks At this period , a puppy develops various senses rapidly. They start to get fully alert and aware of their environment and may recognize you and other humans that are frequently around. The Socialization Period 4 to 7 Weeks Once a puppy is around four weeks old, they start to learn the most important things in life-related to social development. They will learn to not bite all the time and how to interact with their siblings. Interactions with humans are especially important between five and seven weeks. This is also the time they will start to understand discipline thanks to their mother. She will start weaning her puppies and teaching them manners, like acknowledging she is in charge. As the owner, you can start introducing food to your puppy when they are around four weeks old. Start small and begin to give them more food as the mother continues to wean them. You should also continue handling the puppy every day. However, be sure not to separate them from their siblings or mother for over ten minutes each day, since this can lead to issues with training and socialization. Dogs who are separated too soon may also be nervous and more likely to bark and bite. During this period, let the mother dog take care of discipline; you should not correct the dog for mouthing or housebreaking mistakes until later in life. To help ease them through this process, avoid traumatic events, loud voices, or harsh discipline. You should also make sure your pooch has plenty of human contact during this stage. If you want, you can start leash training and even teach simple commands such as sit, down, stay and come. In terms of development, you will notice that your puppy can sleep through the whole night and starts to develop better control of its bowels and bladder. Most vets suggest that new outings should wait until they are fully vaccinated. We rub the Calmeroos Puppy Toy on littermates and mom to get their scent. When we get home the Calmeroos Puppy Toy helps our puppy feel comfortable and adjust more quickly to his new environment. Many puppies will go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old. We recently put together a blog post on our sister site detailing what you can expect from an 8-week-old puppy. The Juvenile Stage 3 to 4 Months At this point in development, a puppy can be compared to a juvenile. They will be more independent and may ignore the basic commands that they know very well. If this happens, firmly and gently reinforce the commands and other training. You may also notice your pup starting to test your authority by play biting or similar actions. You can also redirect your dog to a toy that they can bite. Either can end up teaching your pooch that it is okay to fight with you and challenge your authority. The Ranking Period 3 to 6 Months When your puppy is between four and six months old, you should expect them to be somewhat bratty, showing more willfulness and independence. They are more likely to test your limits and may try to show dominance over children or other family members. If they fail to listen to you or come when called, it can be dangerous as it puts them at risk of injury when in public. It can also hurt future responses to you, making them less likely to listen. This is also when your dog will be teething, so give them toys like frozen dog Kong toys to relieve pressure and pain. Chewing behaviors will also start growing at this point so look for some safe chew toys to keep your dog entertained. This is when hormonal changes start to occur and is the ideal time to spay or neuter your pup. UC Davis published a study comparing the long-term health effects of neutering in Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Adolescence 6 to 18 Months After six months, your pup is already in the final stage of puppy development but is still young. This is a fun and exciting time for your pooch since they will be learning, full of energy, and exuberant. During this time, it is important to remember that even if your puppy now looks like a grown-up dog, they are still a puppy, at least in its mental capacity and emotional maturity. Work to slowly increase training and other activities. You can even work on advanced training such as agility or herding. Another option is to simply keep training them to ensure they interact in a non-aggressive and non-threatening way with other animals. It is also possible that your dog will go through another fearful period of time at some point after they reach six months. You can speed up the process with counter-conditioning and desensitization. It fits very well and is quite apt! Final Thoughts With the knowledge of how and when your new puppy will develop, you are better able to meet their needs. Provide socialization at the appropriate times and be sure to give your puppy plenty of social interactions with their siblings as well as humans and any other pets in your home. Your dog should reach maturity at some point between one and two years old with plenty of variation based on breed, Labradors are considered mature at between 2 and 2. 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. Our extensive library of high-quality stock photos includes a wide variety of images featuring this beloved breed in various settings and in different stages of life. Whether you need a photo for a website, brochure, or any other marketing material, we have the perfect image to suit your needs. Types of Images Available We offer a wide range of images featuring Labrador Retrievers, including photos of puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs. Our collection includes different colors of Labradors, including Chocolate, Black, and Yellow. You'll find images of Labradors in a variety of settings, such as playing in a park, resting at home, or working as service animals. These formats make it easy to use our images for different purposes, such as print and digital media. Our images can be used for a variety of projects, including websites, social media, brochures, posters, and banners. When choosing an image, keep in mind the intended purpose and the audience. For example, an image of a Labrador playing with a ball may be perfect for a brochure promoting dog toys, while an image of a Labrador as a service animal may be ideal for a website promoting disability services. Practical Advice on Choosing the Right Image When selecting an image, consider the message you want to convey and the emotion you want to evoke. A happy Labrador playing in a park may convey joy and playfulness, while an image of a Labrador comforting an owner may convey comfort and compassion. It's also important to consider the composition of the image. A well-composed image draws the viewer's attention to the subject, making it more effective in conveying the intended message. Choose images with a clear subject and a clean background to avoid distractions. Conclusion No matter what your project requires, we have the perfect Labrador Retriever image to meet your needs. Our extensive library of high-quality stock photos features a variety of Labradors in different settings and stages of life. Make your project stand out with our Labrador Retriever images.

Overall, boxers love people and children. As long as they're properly socialized, they get along great with other pets. But boxers do sometimes have aggressive tendencies that need to be kept in check. Same-Sex Aggression The most common problem with aggressive behavior in boxers is territorial and dominance aggression toward other dogs of the same sex. This is especially true with female boxers. Although they generally get along fine with male dogs, female boxers tend to pick fights with other females. Boxers also tend to hold grudges; once one becomes angry with another dog, he might consider that dog to be a lifelong enemy. On-Leash Aggression Boxers need to be exercised regularly; unfortunately, being on-leash sometimes brings out their territorial nature, causing them to behave aggressively toward other dogs they meet. Boxers also sometimes become more protective and defensive of their owners while on leash. A head collar with a loop that goes over the muzzle can give owners more control and help to keep this sort of aggressive behavior in check. In the event that it goes too far, such a collar can help the owner to regain control of a fighting boxer without getting in the middle of the fight. Prey Instinct The boxer was originally bred from crossing a bulldog with a bullenbeisser, which is a German hunting dog. As such, the boxer inherited a strong instinct for catching prey, which leads the breed to display aggression toward small animals such as squirrels, rabbits and birds, and even sometimes larger animals such as sheep and deer. Dealing With Aggression Boxers are highly energetic dogs who require daily walks and other forms of exercise to help them release pent-up energy and stay calm. They are strong-willed and need owners who are both willing and able to be strong, dominant leaders and establish firm boundaries for acceptable behavior. Early socialization with other animals and people can help avoid aggressive tendencies as the boxer gets older. If your boxer shows aggressive tendencies despite your best efforts to contain them, consult a veterinary behavioral expert for help in getting the aggression under control. More Articles. They are known for being very loyal, and that can sometimes turn into aggression. If you are worried that your Boxer may become aggressive or if there are already signs of aggression, there are some things you can do to correct the behavior and help make your Boxer a loving pet. Can Boxers be aggressive? Boxers can be aggressive, but if they are bought from a legitimate breeder and are raised, socialized, and trained properly, they are not likely to be aggressive. Past negative experiences, lack of exercise, and feeling threatened can manifest in aggression, though these issues are easily corrected. If you are considering getting a Boxer and want to know if he or she could become aggressive, be sure to read on to learn more. Poor Breeding Some dogs are bred from animals that are aggressive or have genes that make them more likely to be aggressive. There are also certain health problems that can make a Boxer more likely to become aggressive. Lack of Socialization Dogs that have not been properly socialized with people, children, or animals may become aggressive out of fear or if they are territorial. Lack of Training Some dogs need to be trained to keep their aggression at bay and to learn how to act in certain situations and with new people. If a Boxer is not trained properly, he could become aggressive in new situations and around new people. They may guard their toys, bed, and even people. They can also have food-aggression issues. This problem is known as resource guarding and is a natural reaction in some dogs or can be something they develop over time if they are not cared for properly. Unneutered Male Males are more likely to become aggressive than females, especially if they are unneutered. Boxers that show signs of aggression typically become less aggressive after they are neutered. Past Trauma or Negative Experiences Dogs that have been abused or have had past trauma and negative experiences may become aggressive in situations that remind them of these experiences. Female-Female Aggression Many Boxer females can become aggressive when other females are around. This is especially true if the female is in heat, has puppies, or is pregnant. Overly Protective Nature Boxers are guard dogs, and they tend to be overprotective by nature. This can something show up as aggression if they feel that their family or they themselves are being threatened. High Prey Drive Boxers have a high prey drive, and this can cause them to see smaller dogs, cats, and other animals as prey and act aggressively toward them. This can usually be resolved with proper training. How To Stop Boxer Aggression If your Boxer is showing signs of aggression, the sooner you intervene, the more likely you are to stop the behavior before it gets out of hand. Here are some tips that can help. Create a Safe Place Make sure your dog feels safe. Many dogs show aggression out of fear and confusion. Talk calmly to your dog when he starts to show signs of aggression to distract and calm him. Instead, redirect him and offer positive reinforcement to help keep him calm and let him know his calm behavior is rewarded. Make an appointment with your veterinarian to have a health problem ruled out or treated. Socialize Them Proper socialization is important for every dog breed and especially Boxers. Make sure your dog has plenty of socialization with other pets, animals, and people. You can find trainers who specialize in dealing with aggressive behavior and can help you correct it. As opposed to a costly lawsuit should your dog attack someone, hiring a professional will be money well spent. Your Boxer likely stares at you because he wants to anticipate what you will do next so he can go with you. Boxers bond with their owners quickly, and your Boxer may want to be by your side at all times. If your Boxer is older, he may be staring at you due to vision problems or another disorder. Are Boxers Good With Cats? Boxers can be good with cats as long as they are introduced to them early in life and have plenty of time to socialize with them. When you introduce your Boxer to a cat, always monitor them closely to make sure they get along. Conclusion Boxers are great dogs and make great family pets. They can, however, be aggressive if they are not properly trained and socialized. Related Posts:. No breed description will describe all boxers or will even accurately and totally describe one. However, some traits do apply to many boxers. Boxers tend to be silly, playful dogs who act like puppies for much of their lives. They are clownish dogs who seem to take particular delight in making their human family laugh at their antics. However, their puppy-like behavior is not always a source of amusement for everyone. Boxers love to be with people — as much as possible and as close as possible. They are not an aloof or independent breed. Their social nature and their typically high energy level make them well-suited to joining in family activities. If your boxer needs to be home alone for many hours each day, he will likely need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation when you are home to keep him happy. Boxers cannot be left outside unattended without access to the indoors for any considerable length of time. Not only are they intolerant to heat and cold, but they also have been known to escape yards in an attempt to find their people. Boxers are family dogs in both their social nature and their physical needs. Boxers have a reputation for enjoying the company of children, and, indeed, many of them are quite tolerant around children. Boxers are large and bouncy and are not always the best judges of their size and strength, so special care should be taken with an exuberant boxer around small children. Always keep in mind that rescue dogs often have unknown histories, so it is a good idea to take extra precautions with any rescue dog, including boxers, around young children. Many boxers enjoy playing with other dogs, but their rough style of play and method of approach may be off-putting. Many boxers are selective about which dogs they want to be around, so introductions to new dogs should generally be controlled. Although boxers are not typically an aggressive breed, their enthusiasm and forwardness can escalate into reactive behavior or can trigger undesired responses from other dogs who do not understand them. Boxers are strong, can be stubborn, and can pull hard on their leash if they want something! A boxer is a joyous, funny, athletic dog who loves nothing more than being part of the family. However, boxers are not for everyone. Boxers require special consideration when it comes to the amount of exercise and activity they need, their social nature, their limitations in warm or cold climates, and their often-expensive veterinary care. Most purebred dogs that end up in shelters find themselves there because their people did not like the things about them that were, in fact, typical of their breed. The same traits that make boxers so much fun for one person may make them challenging or frustrating for another. Do your research, and if possible, spend time with some boxers before deciding if the breed is right for you.