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Can you use human shampoo on your dog? According to my research, there are several reasons why dog shampoo is best for dogs and human shampoo is best left for the humans. Dogs have different pH balances and fewer layers of skin cells. So dogs have more sensitive skin than humans. That means human shampoo is a no-go for dogs. I checked out several sources to confirm this. Reasons to avoid using human shampoos on dogs According to PreventiveVet. How I found the best shampoo for our Goldendoodle pack While attending the Westminster dog show, I stopped at the Chris Christensen booth. This brand had been on my radar and seeing it used widely among breeds during the competitions reassured me that it was a quality product. So I also checked in with Goldendoodle grooming Facebook communities. Like many brands, Chris Christensen offers a variety of products with different features. After some research, I landed on Ice on Ice for its detangling properties. Initially, I questioned the price. Would it be worth it? However, if I was going to groom and bathe my Goldendoodles myself, I decided I needed the best tools for the job. And my Goldendoodles deserved to feel like it was a day at the spa. For dog bathing tips, check out my article, How To Bathe a Goldendoodle. As a responsible pet parent, it's crucial to find the right shampoo that suits their unique needs. In this article, we'll explore the top three best shampoos for Goldendoodles, ensuring their fur stays clean, healthy, irresistibly soft, and most importantly mat-free! It is an all-natural formula with five benefits in one single bottle. This one shampoo cleans, conditions, deodorizes, moisturizes, and detangles. The 5-in-1 shampoo nourishes and improves skin condition, leaving the coat softer, shinier, and more manageable. Its formula is gentle yet powerful. It is specifically designed for sensitive skin. It won't cause irritation or trigger allergic reactions, making it perfect for dogs with allergies or skin sensitivities. Made with naturally derived ingredients from coconut, palm, oatmeal, and aloe extract, it is the best shampoo for any goldendoodle over 12 weeks old. And brush again afterwards when the coat is completely dry. This formula is a great addition to your brushing routine as it conditions the coat making easier to remove tangles and knots. Plus, it is made from all-naturally-derived ingredients. This formula is great to have on hand just in case your precious goldendoodle gets any fleas or ticks. Its gentle yet effective formula washes away fleas and ticks. Plus, it provides long-lasting protection for up to 7 days. We love that it is all natural, not harsh, and safe for your dog, and also for any family member that comes in contact with the product. Taking care of your Goldendoodle's coat requires the right shampoo that addresses their specific needs. Whether you prioritize natural ingredients, hypoallergenic formulas, or pest fighting shampoos, these top three shampoos have got you covered. They offer exceptional care, leaving your Goldendoodle with a luscious, healthy coat that will turn heads wherever you go. Remember, regular grooming and using the right shampoo are key to maintaining your Goldendoodle's irresistible charm and ensuring their overall well-being. This includes dog shampoo , towels, a slicker brush or metal comb, cotton balls for ear protection , and treats for positive reinforcement. Step 2: Brush the Coat Start by brushing your Goldendoodle's coat to remove any tangles or mats. This is especially important for Goldendoodles, as their coats can easily become tangled. Use a slicker brush or a comb to gently work through the fur, ensuring it is smooth and free from any knots. Step 3: Protect the Ears Goldendoodles have floppy ears that can trap water, leading to potential ear infections. To prevent this, place a cotton ball in each ear canal to keep water out during the bath. Be sure not to push the cotton ball too far into the ear. Step 4: Wet the Coat Carefully wet your Goldendoodle's coat using lukewarm water. Start from the neck and work your way down the body, making sure to wet the entire coat thoroughly. Use a detachable showerhead or a pitcher to control the water flow and avoid getting water in the eyes and ears. Step 5: Apply Shampoo Take a small amount shampoo for Goldendoodles and lather it in your hands. Gently apply the shampoo to your dog's coat, starting from the neck and working your way down. Massage the shampoo into the fur, focusing on areas that tend to get dirty or oily, such as the chest, underarms, and hindquarters. Avoid getting shampoo in your Goldendoodle's eyes and ears. Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly Once the shampoo is applied, rinse your Goldendoodle's coat thoroughly. Ensure that all the shampoo is rinsed out completely, as leftover residue can cause skin irritation. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear, indicating that the coat is free from shampoo. Step 7: Dry the Coat Gently squeeze out excess water from your Goldendoodle's coat using your hands. Then, wrap your dog in a clean towel and pat dry. Avoid vigorously rubbing the fur, as it can cause tangles. If your Goldendoodle tolerates it, you can also use a blow dryer on a low heat setting, keeping it at a safe distance from the dog's skin. Be cautious not to use a high heat setting or get too close to prevent discomfort or burns. Step 8: Brush and Finish Once your Goldendoodle is mostly dry, use a brush to gently work through the coat. This will help prevent tangles and keep the fur looking neat and tidy. Give your Goldendoodle some praise and treats for their cooperation during the bath. By following these steps, you can ensure that your Goldendoodle's bathing experience is positive, effective, and helps maintain a healthy and beautiful coat. Soothing Agents: Aloe vera leaf juice and vitamin E gently clean the hair and lock in moisturizer Cleansing Shampoo for Dogs: Provides a fresh, soft, and shiny coat while strengthening and repairing hair Doggie Odor Control: Has a long-lasting classic fresh scent that clings to hair for up to 2 weeks Ready-To-Use Formula: Keep pets smelling fresh and clean between baths or trips to the groomer with this shampoo Check Price on Amazon We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. If you have a really smelly Goldendoodle, This shampoo might be for you. It is a strong and effective option for a particularly smelly Goldendoodle. Not all puppies and dogs love bathtime. Here are a few little tips and tricks that owners and groomers find help make Goldendoodles enjoy bath time more. Use warm water to wash your Goldendooodle. This seems a little like a no-brainer but it pays to be kind and use warm water when bathing your dog. A little touch of luxury can come about by warming a towel for your dog. You can use the dryer for a few minutes or even a towel warmer. If you need to groom or brush your Goldendoodle, do this before bathing the dog. It is much more difficult to get out knots and tangles once the dog is wet — even while drying. Make life more comfortable for your Goldendoodle by getting this out of the way before the water is switched on. Use shampoos that are soothing to the skin for your dog. Pick one of the shamoos from our list or alternatively test your dog shampoo on your own skin before applying it to the puppy Remember to pat the shampoo onto the Goldendoodle rather than rubbing it. The gentler you are, the less tangles later. Less tangles also means a happier dog when it comes to brushing time. Consider switching to showering your Goldendoodle instead. This of course only works in large showers or open plan bathrooms. Be careful as wet tiles are slippery for both you and the dog. If you live somewhere warm enough you can let your Goldendoodle dry with a simple towel dry and time. You will need to brush once the coat is completely dry. Either way be careful when using a towel not to tangle the Groodle fur. White Goldendoodles: Whitening Shampoos: These are specially formulated to brighten and enhance white and light-colored coats. They can help eliminate yellowing and stains, giving the fur a pure, white appearance. Mild Shampoos: Light-coated dogs can sometimes have more sensitive skin. Moisturizing and Conditioning: White coats can sometimes appear dull. Using a moisturizing or conditioning shampoo can bring out the shine and ensure that the coat is soft and healthy. Stain Removal: White coats can show dirt, tear, and saliva stains more prominently. Consider a tear-stain remover or specialized cleaners for specific areas, along with regular grooming to keep the coat looking its best. Black Goldendoodles: Color-Enhancing Shampoos: Just as there are whitening shampoos for white dogs, there are color-enhancing or brightening shampoos for dark and black-coated dogs. These shampoos can deepen the black hue and make the coat shine. Selecting a shampoo with natural oils or a formula that promotes shine will help maintain that glossy appearance. Protection from Fading: The sun can sometimes lighten or change the hue of a black coat. While no shampoo can provide full sun protection, some are formulated to reduce the fading effect of sunlight on the fur. Frequently Asked Questions How often to bathe a Goldendoodle Unless there is a heap of dirt of matting, you can get by washing your Goldendoodle once every three to six weeks. A great smelling Goldendoodle is important, but not over-washing your dog is just as important. The natural oils in the coat need to be protected to give the luxurious Goldendoodle coat experience. Use a high-quality shampoo with appropriate pH and a good smell. How often to wash a Goldendoodle Puppy Bath your Goldendoodle puppy whenever it gets dirty. This includes messes from house training. Other messes include dirt or bacteria. If the puppy remains clean wash every weeks using the best Goldendoodle puppy shampoo. How can I make my Goldendoodle Smell better? There are plenty of different reasons that Goldendoodles can smell. Ensure appropriate ear care, coat care, and paw care. All of these areas contribute to a stinky Goldendoodle. Identify the causes of the smell, all of which can be improved or solved with simple at-home grooming. When picking the best shampoo for Mini Goldendoodles you should be looking at a puppy-appropriate shampoo. Selecting appropriate pH, skin-friendly, and deep cleaning shampoo is a must. There are plenty of good shampoos out there, but you need one that can clean the dense and luxurious Mini Goldendoodle coat. Look to brands like Nootie or Wahl for your Mini Groodle. We reviewed the top 6 best shampoos for Goldendoodles as recommended by owners and groomers — and each of these is appropriate for a Miniature Goldendoodle. Conclusion All of the Goldendoodle shampoos that we have discussed today are excellent. We tested many to decide which are the very best. All seven are very unlikely to disappoint. All seven reviewed shampoos have great smells, and excellent deep cleansing properties. We only considered shampoos and conditioners for Goldendoodles that gave value for money AND excellent results. Each of the products listed will help you care for your Goldendoodle at home, and get a groomer quality result. Would love to know if you own a Goldendoodle and have a favorite Goldendoodle shampoo. Please comment below if this is the case! My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. One question that many Doodle owners have is, what is the best Goldendoodle shampoo? After all, dog shampoo is all made the same, right? But, all shampoo is not the same. If you research some of the largest shampoo brands, you will also find countless lawsuits to follow. Today we will talk about what to look for in your dog shampoo and a few recommendations. What Makes A Shampoo Good? When choosing a shampoo for your Goldendoodle, you will want to choose one with quality ingredients. Goldendoodles have sensitive skin and can be more prone to things like hot spots and allergies. Some owners have to sample a few brands to see which brands work best for their dogs. But ideally, dog shampoos should avoid harsh ingredients and be nourishing. But, some chemicals will do your Goldendoodle more harm than good. The artificial fragrance has many origins. Dogs that suffer from skin allergies and sensitivities are more likely to react to these because of their unknown source. Should you notice that your dog seems to break out a lot after a bath, you might want to check your shampoo labels. If artificial fragrance is high on the list, you might want to discontinue use. Formaldehyde We all know all the harmful side effects of formaldehyde. But many pet companies still add it to their products under a new name. Look for labels like: Phenol-Formaldehyde Methylaldehyde Quaternium-7 or Oxomethane Formalin Diazolidinyl urea These ingredients are labeled as a preservative, so they are lower on the list. They can cause skin irritations and estrogen-induced cancer. It is best to avoid these if at all possible. These ingredients are known to cause irritation, redness, and blisters in severe cases. These cheap preservers might not cause an issue at first, but they build-up on the skin over time and create a reaction. Isopropyl Alcohol 40 This ingredient is a quick evaporating ingredient meant to speed up drying time. But, in the evaporating process, it is also drying out the hair shaft from all moisture. Your Goldendoodle will feel dry and might develop dandruff. Sulfates Sulfates are harsh cleaning agents. These cleaners are great for dogs that are very dirty and greasy, but they are also harmful. They can create dry, damaged hair and dandruff as well. If your dog suffers from any skin allergies, sulfates will make them even worse. Using a sulfate-free shampoo is best for most Goldendoodles. Best Goldendoodle Shampoo Now that we have talked about ingredients in your shampoo, we can now make some great recommendations. Below are the top dog shampoos that will solve every problem that you could run into. This shampoo is for conditioning, as well as deep cleaning. It contains a sulfate derived from coconut oil that is more nourishing than synthetic sulfates. It also has a pleasant smell and cleaner ingredients than most on the market. We also love that this shampoo is very concentrated, so a little can go a long way. Owners rave that this shampoo smells amazing and relieves the itchiest of skin. It is also fantastic at preventing itchy skin and dandruff thanks to the calming effects of oatmeal and aloe. Your dog will thank you for this shampoo. This shampoo has extra conditioning powers and yet is powerful enough to cut through any grime that your dog has gotten into. It smells incredible and will make your Doodle pleasant to be around again. You can use this to freshen up every week or as a spot cleaner. TropiClean Whitening Shampoo Sometimes white Doodles need a little extra help getting their fur bright white. For this, we recommend TropiClean Whitening Shampoo. Not only does it smell delicious, but it also has naturally derived ingredients. The unique formula will help your white dog look her best again. This formula is extra gentle for the pup, who is still learning about grooming himself. And since this is a 2-in-1 shampoo, it will leave your puppy feeling soft and easily brushed. They seem impossible to get rid of, and you might feel bad about all the chemicals you are using on and around your Doodle. This shampoo uses essential oils to kill fleas, larvae, and eggs. This shampoo is highly effective, and you will generally see results after the first wash. But, a word of caution with this shampoo. It is very drying to the skin, so you will need to follow it with an excellent conditioner to prevent dry skin and dandruff. Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Conditioner An even greater conditioner should follow the best Goldendoodle shampoo. This conditioner will help detangle your Doodle and leave their hair silky. It can also be a great way to treat and prevent dandruff and itchy skin. We also love the natural ingredients of the company and the fantastic smell. This answer to this question much depends on your lifestyle and dog. Doodles are known to have very delicate skin. They are not washed as often as other dogs because they naturally produce oils to protect their skin. Overwashing your Doodle could lead to dull, lifeless hair and even balding patches. But by no means are you not to wash your dog if they are filthy. If your Goldendoodle is very active, they may need more baths than others. Most groomers will tell you to bathe your dog as needed. And only you will know when it is time that your Goldendoodle absolutely needs a bath. Your nose will lead the way here! The general rule of thumb for Doodles is to bathe them at least every three months. Most of the shampoos on this list are very gentle. So if your dog rolls in the mud every week, you should be fine washing each time. Should you notice that your dog is getting dry skin, that is the sign that you are washing them too much. Now You Know Now you know all there is to know about the best Goldendoodle shampoo. Which brand is your favorite, and why? Below is a Pinterest friendly photo…. Sharing is caring! Table: Top Features to Look for in a Goldendoodle Shampoo Best Shampoos for Goldendoodles Goldendoodles are a popular breed of dog that are known for their beautiful, wavy coats. However, maintaining their fur can be a challenge. Our formulator has over 40 years of experience. It has my absolute favorite scent of any shampoo on the market. The sweet pea vanilla scent is delicious and will get rid of any wet dog smell. Some customers have received damaged bottles or defective items, so be sure to check your purchase carefully. Overall, if you want a high-quality shampoo for your Goldendoodle, Nootie Shampoo is a great choice. A little bit of shampoo goes a long way and provides a.Allergy Friendly - Our dog icon, Rocket, was designed in the image of our family dog Cooper — a golden doodle, who has severe allergies. This is the only shampoo we have found safe and effective. The Brand Used by Professionals - Wahl has been serving professional vets and groomers for over 50 years. We are a company of animal lovers that.We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. The shampoo is made in the USA, so you can buy with confidence. All shampoos made in federally regulated manufacturing facilities. Excellent customer service and return policy. Cons The bottle may bulge out at the bottom, which can make it difficult to sit upright and may cause it to leak. Some customers have reported that the shampoo is watery and may not be as effective as previous versions. The scent of the lime may not be appealing to all Goldendoodles. However, the bottle may bulge out at the bottom, and the scent of vanilla may not be appealing to all dogs. Additionally, some customers have reported that the shampoo is watery and may not be as effective as previous versions. Overall, this shampoo is a good choice for pet owners who want a gentle, effective shampoo for their Goldendoodle. A simple way to get your dog used to grooming with a pleasant bath experience. Pros Formulated with baking soda and coat shampoos, this serves as the perfect all-purpose cleansing, deodorizing and conditioning shampoo! With ingredients of baking soda, gentle oat and wheat proteins, and aloe leaf juice, this product is a non-irritating, hypoallergenic shampoo which is ideal for dry or normal skin and coats. Let your dog play outside knowing you will clean them up leaving them smelling fresh with their coat lustrous, soft, supple and tangle-free. Cons Some users found the scent to be too strong. May not work as well on extremely dirty or smelly dogs. Some users found the bottle to be difficult to open. The Mighty Petz 2-in-1 Shampoo contains natural baking soda to cleanse and deodorize the skin and coat. It is an excellent all-purpose cleansing and deodorizing shampoo that can be used on dry or normal skin and coats. This non-irritation, non-drying, hypoallergenic formulation leaves the coat lustrous, soft, supple, and tangle-free. It is pH adjusted with coat shampoos added. The shampoo can be used at full strength or diluted up to .Made in the USA, you can buy with confidence. All shampoos are made in federally regulated manufacturing facilities. Overall, Mighty Petz 2-in-1 Shampoo is a great choice for keeping your Goldendoodle smelling and looking fresh and clean. However, it may not work as well on extremely dirty or smelly dogs, and some users may find the scent to be too strong. Shampoo for dogs should be as unique as their coats. Additionally, the shampoo contains fruit extracts and quinoa protein for a silky sheen. Additionally, the shampoo may not work as well on dogs with very thick, heavy coats. With their thick curls, Goldendoodles are prone to picking up all sorts of dirt, debris, and pests like fleas and ticks. Few shampoos are made with a specific breed in mind. Many focus on fur type or shedding. This can make it more difficult to find a brand suitable for your Goldendoodle. To make sure you choose the right one, here are a few suggestions. Unfortunately, while frequent baths can leave dogs smelling fresher for longer, they can also strip the natural oils from their fur. Due to this, Goldendoodles are prone to dry skin. Hypoallergenic shampoos are also less likely to contain allergens that your dog can react to. All these baths could dry out their skin, leaving itchy redness and unpleasant cracks. Sensitive skin shampoos are good to help promote healing, but on their own, they might not be good enough to combat dried flakiness. Coconut oil is another good one. When it comes to sensitive skin, for both our dogs and ourselves, these ingredients can soothe, nourish, and moisturize damaged skin. While a big fluffy coat can look adorable, it also requires more care. You will need a brush large enough to handle the bulk, and the strength of their shampoo matters too. Sensitive skin shampoos are designed to be gentle. For your Goldendoodle, you want to find an option that is strong enough to clean their fur and moisturize their skin without causing further damage. It might get misplaced, shoved into the back of a cupboard, or forgotten about, including when you need it. For this reason, it can be easy to reach for the human shampoo sitting in your shower. Unfortunately, humans and dogs have different requirements when it comes to shampoo. Some of the ingredients could cause allergic reactions. For most dog breeds, bathing should be limited to when they need it. If your Goldendoodle tends to stay relatively clean, you might not have to bathe them often at all, especially if you groom them regularly. Too many baths in a short period can irritate their sensitive skin. Even if you have a great moisturizing shampoo, your Goldendoodle will still suffer from dry flakiness. While it can be recommended to seek professional help for particular haircuts, daily brushing sessions can be handled at home. We hope that these reviews helped you to find the best shampoo for your sensitive Goldendoodle. Ollie, originally from the USA, holds his master's degree in wildlife biology and moved to Australia to pursue his career and passion but has found a new love for working online and writing about animals of all types. If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Wading your way through all those fancy words and impossible-to-understand ingredients can be a serious challenge. Click on the links to find out where you can get them. For more details on exactly what each product does, keep scrolling to see our in-depth reviews. Silk-infused proteins and enriching vitamins are combined in this excellent detangling blend that cleans, hydrates, protects, and restores shine for a beautifully soft coat. Types of Dog Shampoo: A Quick Overview When it comes to picking out your own shampoo, you likely opt for one that best meets your needs — long hair, deep conditioning, frizz control, dealing with dandruff. There really is something for everyone. The same is true when it comes to dog shampoo, too. While every dog is an individual, some breed commonalities can point you towards the best product for your pup. Here are some of the different types of shampoos that Goldendoodle owners often recommend. This makes them better for regular use. This is especially important for Doodles as they often inherit the Poodle propensity towards allergies , intolerances, and just general all-around sensitivity to harsher ingredients. These contain various usually natural ingredients such as oatmeal, aloe vera, and tea tree oil that are known to both hydrate and actively relieve inflamed, itchy skin. These products make use of essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, and mint that are particularly well known for their calming effects. Best of all, it can help the washer to destress almost as much as the washee! Medicated Shampoos Unfortunately, some dogs can suffer from coat problems that are just a little more severe than some dandruff or a bit of irritation. For instance, parasites such as ticks and fleas can be a real problem, as can bacterial and fungal skin imbalances. These can all lead to dry, red, inflamed, and itchy skin that will drive your pal around the bend. If symptoms are on the less severe side, you can simply pick up a medicated shampoo designed to deal with the specific problem your pup is having given that you know just what that is. This is where 2-in-1 shampoo plus conditioners shine. No muss, no fuss. Many canine coat products these days are designed just like this. However, if your pup has particularly thick, long, or curly hair, then you may find that these blends simply do not offer enough conditioning action to keep tangles at bay. Goldendoodles, like most other Doodles, can inherit one of three types of coat: A thick, straight often double coat A curly, coarse single coat Or a wavy mix of the two The latter is by far the most common, especially in first-generation dogs. When it comes to the thick, straight double coat from the Golden Retriever side of the equation , the biggest issue you will likely be dealing with is shedding. However, if your pup has the low-shed Poodle curly coat, knots, tangles, and matting are going to have you pulling your own hair out unless you learn how to deal with them! Look for products that mention hydration, nourishing, and silk proteins. Finally, that gorgeous teddy bear-like wavy coat…this is likely to be the lowest maintenance of the three. You should be able to get by with a regular 2-in-1 shampoo plus conditioner. Just pay special attention to whether your pal requires any help with other issues like odor. That wet dog smell is common in breeds with longer hair. Opt for a shampoo that does more than mask foul odors with strong perfumes. The 2-in-1 formula conditions as it cleans, and the coconut, aloe vera, chamomile, and tea tree oil soothe dry, itchy skin. Moreover, the added wheat protein extract acts as a natural deodorizing agent, while the lavender and mint are great for soothing an anxious bath time dog.

The scent does not last long. Some dogs needed extra conditioner shampooing. How it Compares Many French Bulldogs with yeast infections or itchy, irritated, dry, and flaky skin had immediate relief after being bathed with the Pets Are Kids Too dog shampoo. The baking soda in the shampoo also removes stinky odors. The price is slightly on the higher side. This popular shampoo has been widely used and trusted by millions of dog owners. The shampoo also contains beeswax and honey, which nourish the skin and promote a healthy, glossy coat. This makes it suitable for both puppies and adult French Bulldogs. This shampoo not only boosts shine but also moisturizes the coat, leaving it looking healthy and well-maintained. Pros No fragrance, sulfates, or parabens Gentle for sensitive skin Soothes and softens skin and coat Cons Shampoo is watery, so you need to use a lot. This dog shampoo is all-natural and free from harsh ingredients- making it suitable for sensitive French bulldogs. Its price is affordable; however, you might need to use a lot of this sulfate-free shampoo to work up a lather. Wash and soak on skin and coat for minutes. Repeat times weekly. Oatmeal and Allantoin add hydration and nourish the skin. This specialized shampoo contains a powerful combination of ingredients, including coal tar, salicylic acid, and micronized sulfur, which work synergistically to combat these skin problems. The active ingredients in this shampoo effectively eliminate itching, flaking, and scaling, providing much-needed relief for dogs suffering from skin irritations. The shampoo also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe inflammation and control parasitic infections, offering comprehensive care for a range of skin issues. This combination of medicated and natural ingredients makes it a potent and well-rounded solution for addressing various skin problems in French Bulldogs. Veterinarians highly recommend this shampoo for French Bulldogs with specific skin issues like inflamed skin, waxy skin, red, crusty skin, as well as problems caused by parasites, yeast, and mites. Moreover, being paraben-free and dye-free ensures a safer and gentler bathing experience for your pet. Pros Effectively treats a host of canine skin issues Vet-recommended. The shampoo is made with all-natural ingredients and is packaged in recycled materials, making it an eco-friendly choice for pet owners. This shampoo is made with organic ingredients that are safe and non-toxic for your puppy. This means that the shampoo has been rigorously tested and meets the highest standards for organic products. These ingredients help to calm irritated skin and promote a healthy, shiny coat. This hypoallergenic shampoo is specially formulated for dogs with sensitive skin, making it a great option for dog breeds and puppies with allergies or skin irritations. This shampoo is also free from harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrances, making it a safe and non-irritating choice for puppies with sensitive skin. This shampoo is specially formulated to help soothe and heal a variety of skin conditions, including hot spots, rashes, and insect bites. This shampoo is also free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, making it a safe and non-irritating choice for puppies with sensitive skin. One of the standout features of Wahl Gentle Puppy Shampoo is its gentle formula. Another great feature of Wahl Gentle Puppy Shampoo is its tear-free formula. One of the standout features of Furminator deShedding Ultra Premium Shampoo is its effective formula. Puppies have fresh, delicate skin, and it can take a while before they develop all of their adult coat. The best puppy shampoos use little to no fragrance, relying instead on natural scents over artificial fragrances. Of course, the best shampoo for Frenchies puppies may still have many of the same ingredients as an adult shampoo. After all, adult Frenchies also require the same soothing, gentle features. How often should I bathe my French Bulldog? Most experts recommend bathing a French Bulldog no more than five times per year due to their sensitive skin. Overwashing can lead to dried-out, itchy skin. If your Frenchie rolls around in the mud, you will need to bathe them regardless of his bath count for the year. If you have a highly active Frenchie who plays outside a lot, you may find it necessary to bathe them more often, about once per month. Is it safe to let my Frenchie air dry? However, we have one product that stood out among the rest: the Pets Are Kids Too. Our Top Pick The shampoo has enhanced ingredients for relieving itching from allergies or dry skin, including oatmeal, aloe vera, and baking soda. This pet shampoo impressed us with its anti-itch formula, which includes important ingredients like aloe vera, oatmeal, and coconut. This chemical-free shampoo is ideal for breeds like Frenchies who can struggle with skin allergies and sensitivity. The plant-based ingredients are awesome, and we love the addition of baking soda, which helps eliminate odor. Evelina Roos Dog Gear Enthusiast Our lovely team member Evelina is passionate about the power of the written word and communications. She is a professional writer, translator, and marketer. Born in Sweden, she has lived in five countries, as many as her Italian rescue dog Ossi. Wherever she goes he follows, whether into the kitchen or for a hike in the Pyrenees. This may seem like an obvious question but for breeds prone to skin problems , it can be more complicated. If your Frenchie just needs routine baths because they like to roll in the mud or because you dislike the general scent of dog, your shampoo options are essentially wide open. Some skin conditions may require an actual medicated shampoo, prescribed by a veterinarian. Managing some skin conditions requires medications by mouth, diet changes, and yes, bathing. If not treated appropriately, skin problems can worsen and lead to secondary complications. Several of the shampoos on our list are suitable for puppies , but not all of them. In general, you should reach for a gentle, natural product to bathe your puppy, ideally a tearless formula. Many topical flea and tick products are negatively impacted by bathing. Several of the shampoos on our list specifically mention that they are safe to use with these preventatives. However, every topical product works differently. To be safe, consult the directions on the flea product itself before bathing your dog. You may need to avoid bathing for several days before and after treating your Frenchie. Another option is to switch to pill parasite prevention which should not be affected by bathing. Final Thoughts Our best shampoo for French Bulldogs overall, Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo , is an all-natural formula safe for frequent use thanks to its moisturizing properties. Our budget buy pick, Hartz 6 in 1 Grooming Shampoo is a cost-effective, multi-functional shampoo and conditioner. We hope our reviews of these eight products were a helpful overview of your choices and provided useful information to help you make your final decision.

Things to do with your English Bulldog Pennsylvania is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Pennsylvania that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Pennsylvania that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Pennsylvania, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Pennsylvania, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Pennsylvania, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Pennsylvania, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses Pennsylvania has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Pennsylvania. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Pennsylvania is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Pennsylvania? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Puppy Breeds Known for their loose-jointed, shuffling gait and massive, short-faced head, the English Bulldog is known to be equable, resolute and dignified. A medium-sized dog, they are not your typical lap dog, but would like to be! They are one of the most popular breeds according toAKC Registration Statistics due to their lovable and gentle dispositions and adorable wrinkles. The English Bulldog may be brindle, white, red, fawn, fallow or piebald. The original bulldog had to be ferocious and courageous, and almost insensitive to pain. When dog fighting became illegal in England, fanciers set to the task of preserving the breed by eliminating the fierce characteristics. Within a few generations, the Bulldog became one of the finest physical specimens with an agreeable temperament. Temperament English Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. They tend to be gentle and protective. The breed requires minimal grooming and exercise. Their short nose makes them prone to overheating in warm weather, so make sure to provide a shady place to rest. Generally, Bulldogs are known for getting along well with children, other dogs, and pets. They can become so attached to home and family, that they will not venture out of the yard without a human companion. Bulldogs do better with positive training. They love getting rewarded with treats! Here at Petland, we have many different types of training treats because we know all the pups love them! Ranging in size from 40 to 50 pounds. Family companion. Apartment is fine, also small condo Low activity indoors, due to their snouts thrive in moderate climates. At cheappuppiesforsale. These lovable puppies are perfect for anyone looking for an affordable family pet. English Bulldogs are small, fun dogs that require minimal training. They are known for their clownish personalities and love of cuddles. History of English bulldog puppies English bulldog puppies are a completely man-made breed. The national dog of England, their strong heads, loose skin and short legs give them a very distinctive, amusing appearance. Bulldogs are generally gentle, affectionate dogs that love to be around their families. They are excellent with children and have a medium-low activity level that makes them great for apartment or city living. These loveable dogs are loyal to a fault and are sure to make you smile. English Bulldogs are calm, non-sporting dogs with a sourmug face that love to chew and play tug-of-war. British Bulldogs rarely bark but snore, snort, wheeze, grunt, and snuffle instead. Bulldogs are a people-oriented, loyal and devoted watchdogs that love to nap by your side. Unlike other breeders, We choose parents not based on champion bloodlines and registry, but on health, temperament, and looks. As a result, cheappuppiesforsale. From this breed of dogs and others,We and our staff offer a variety of healthy, attractive pups 8 weeks of age and older, all of whom are ready for a loving family and home. As a leading national seller of bulldogs, cheappuppiesforsale. The website maintains an extensive FAQ section, where Howard fields questions about the breed regarding health, fitness, care, and maintenance. This handsome English Bulldog will sure melt your heart with one look into his adorable eyes. He is a very social pup who is played with regularly. This fella is excited to meet his forever friend. He is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and comes with a 1 year genetic health guarantee. Reviews There are no reviews yet.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Built for sport, the Lab is muscular and athletic. They have a short, easy-care coat, friendly demeanor, keen intelligence, and plenty of energy. Devotion to this breed runs deep; Labs are loving, people-oriented dogs who live to serve their families, and owners and fans sometimes liken their Labs to angels. The breed originated on the island of Newfoundland, off the northeastern Atlantic coast of Canada. Originally called the St. Today, most Labs skip the hard labor and spend their days being pampered and loved by their people. However, some Labs still serve as indispensable working dogs. They also excel as a search and rescue dog or as a retriever for hunters, thanks to their athletic build, strong nose, and courageous nature. And Labs have also become the breed to beat at dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions, especially obedience. In fact, owners say their sweet, helpful Lab is likely to greet an intruder and happily show them where the goods are stashed. One role has remained constant: wonderful companion and friend. Labrador Retriever Highlights Friendly and outgoing. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are good with people of all ages and other animals. Intelligent and trainable. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They are often used as working dogs, such as guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs. Active and playful. Labrador Retrievers are active dogs that need plenty of exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and other activities. Loyal and devoted. Labrador Retrievers are loyal and devoted dogs that make great family pets. They are known for their gentle nature and love of children. Grooming needs are minimal. Labrador Retrievers have a short, thick coat that is easy to groom. They only need to be brushed a few times a week and bathed as needed. Overall, the Labrador Retriever is a versatile and popular dog breed that makes a great family pet. They are friendly, intelligent, and trainable, and they have a low grooming requirement. If you are considering getting a Labrador Retriever, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder. Labrador Retrievers are wonderful dogs, but they require a lot of time and attention. They are not a good choice for people who are not active or who do not have a lot of time to spend with their pets. Originally called St. Although their heritage is unknown, many believe the St. The second Earl of Malmesbury was one of the first, and had St. The third Earl of Malmesbury was the first person to refer to the dogs as Labradors. In Newfoundland, the breed disappeared because of government restrictions and tax laws. Families were allowed to keep no more than one dog, and owning a female was highly taxed, so girl puppies were culled from litters. In England, however, the breed survived, and the Kennel Club recognized the Labrador Retriever as a distinct breed in .They also top the list in Canada and England. Today, Labs work in drug and explosive detection, search and rescue, therapy, assistance to those with disabilities, and as retrievers for hunters. They also excel in all forms of dog competitions: show, field, agility, and obedience. Labrador Retriever Size Males stand .Females stand .Aside from a winning personality, they have the intelligence and eagerness to please that make them easy to train. Training is definitely necessary because this breed has a lot of energy and exuberance. The working heritage of the Lab means they are active. This breed needs activity, both physical and mental, to keep them happy. There is some variation in the activity level of Labs: some are rowdy, others are more laid back. All thrive on activity. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders, as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Cataracts : As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision, as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Epilepsy : Labs can suffer from epilepsy, which causes mild or severe seizures. Seizures may be exhibited by unusual behavior, such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Puppies are born with TVD, which is a malformation of the tricuspid valve on the right side of the heart. It can be mild or severe; some dogs live with no symptoms, others die. TVD is detected by ultrasound. Research is ongoing to learn how widespread it is in the breed, as well as treatment. Myopathy : Myopathy affects the muscles and nervous system. The first signs are seen early, as young as six weeks and often by seven months of age. A puppy with myopathy is tired, stiff when he walks and trots. He may collapse after exercise. In time, the muscles atrophy and the dog can barely stand or walk. There is no treatment, but rest and keeping the dog warm seems to reduce symptoms. Dogs with myopathy should not be bred because it is considered a heritable disease. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid themselves of the excess air in their stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. Theyalso may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Acute Moist Dermatitis: Acute moist dermatitis is a skin condition in which the skin red and inflamed. It is caused by a bacterial infection. The more common name of this health concern is hot spots. Treatment includes clipping the hair, bathing in medicated shampoo, and antibiotics. Cold Tail : Cold tail is a benign, though painful condition common to Labs and other retrievers. The dog may bite at the tail. It is thought to be a problem with the muscles between the vertebrae in the tail. Weekly checking and cleaning if necessary helps prevent infection. Labrador Retriever Care The lovable Lab needs to be around their family, and is definitely not a backyard dog. Labs show some variation in their activity levels, but all of them need activity, both physical and mental. Daily minute walks, a romp at the dog park, or a game of fetch, are a few ways to help your Lab burn off energy. However, a puppy should not be taken for too long walks and should play for a few minutes at a time. It is up to you to end play and training sessions. Without training, a rambunctious Lab puppy will soon grow to be a very large, rowdy dog. Luckily, Labs take to training well; in fact, they often excel in obedience competitions. Start with puppy kindergarten , which not only teaches your pup good canine manners, but helps them learn how to be comfortable around other dogs and people. Look for a class that uses positive training methods that reward the dog for getting it right, rather than punishing them for getting it wrong. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility, with its one-inch jumps. Labrador Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2. Thrives on exercise and athletic activities Steady-tempered and dependable with everyone Peaceful with other animals Very responsive to training The Bad Needs a goodly amount of exercise, not just a couple of short walks around the block High energy and exuberant jumping, especially when young Sheds a lot Risk of serious health problems Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. Books by Michele Welton "Respect Training for Puppies" or "Respect Training for Adult Dogs" is a step by step guide to help you bring out the best in your pup so you can enjoy a calm and well-behaved dog, no matter what his age. Get your book today. A healthy dog is a happy dog, so buy your copy today. Chocolate Labrador. Developed as hunting dogs to fetch and carry birds back to the hunter, Labs love to carry toys around. How big are Labrador Retrievers? Usually they're inches at the shoulder, with males typically in the higher half of that range, and females in the lower half. Weight can be as low as 55 pounds, but is usually pounds. Unfortunately, the trend seems to be for heavier and heavier Labs, with a lot of individuals topping 90 pounds. I say unfortunately because heavier weight isn't good for their joints. This breed was supposed to be a medium-sized hunting retriever who could fit comfortably in a bird blind or a small boat. Show type Labrador Retriever. Much stockier than field type Labs. Are there different "types" of Labrador Retrievers? Not officially. There's only the one breed. They come in several colors, yet they're all Labrador Retrievers. For hunting and field trials, though, black Labs are by far the most common color. In my obedience classes, yellow Labs are often the calmest and most mild-mannered. In contrast, the chocolate Labs I've worked with have all been very energetic. Of course, it might just be coincidence! But apart from color, you'll definitely see Labs who look quite different from other Labs. Different builds, different body shapes. In particular, Labrador Retrievers used primarily for hunting and field trials look very different from Labs you see at dog shows that emphasize conformation. They have a narrower head, longer muzzle, lankier body, and a sleeker coat. Labs from show lines are heavier-boned and stockier, with a large blocky head and dense coat. To me, those dogs don't really look like the classic Labrador Retriever. But they do tend to be very sweet dogs with mellow temperaments that fit well into many families. How much exercise do Labrador Retrievers need? Many owners don't give this breed the exercise it deserves. These athletic, bouncy dogs need regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise they will become bored, which they may express by becoming rambunctious and destructive. Labs also need mental stimulation, which means interesting activities that keep the mind stimulated: For example, a challenging dog sport agility, rally obedience, musical freestyle, tracking, flyball, frisbee, field trials ; interactive dog toys; a homemade obstacle course; fetch games and tricks. Black Labrador Retriever. Black is the most common color. Are Labrador Retrievers easy to train? Yes, training most Labrador Retrievers is easy. They housebreak quickly and are usually willing to please. But this breed is strong and energetic, especially adolescents. Many Labradors between one and three years old are dropped off at animal shelters or rescue groups because of dog behavior problems such as pulling vigorously on the leash and jumping on people. Focus on teaching loose-leash walking, indoor calmness, and no jumping. All of these are taught in my puppy training book, Respect Training For Puppies. Are they friendly with strangers? Yes, most Labs are happy to see everyone. They'll bark when someone comes to the door, but they're not protective. This is a friendly, trusting breed. Are Labrador Retrievers good with children? Most Labs are among the best possible dogs for children. However, remember my cautions about exuberance and jumping. Young Labs up to two or three years old romp and jump with vigor. That means things can go flying — including people. If your Lab has been allowed to jump on people, you should stop this behavior immediately. Jumping can injure people, and even when it doesn't, it puts a dog in a heightened state of arousal that isn't good for him. If you don't yet have your dog and your home includes toddlers or infirm adults, you might consider skipping the challenging puppy and adolescent stages. Look into adopting an adult Labrador Retriever from a rescue group. Adults have a more settled temperament and you can specifically look for a calm one. Are Labrador Retrievers good with other pets? Most Labs are fine with other dogs and cats, fine with livestock, and even fine with very small pets such as rabbits and ferrets. Of course introductions should be made properly. Don't just plunk a baby bunny onto the floor and let your full-grown Lab loose in the room. Even a friendly dog can make mincemeat of a small fragile creature simply by jumping on it. Labrador Retriever puppies hardly shed at all.Grooming: Do Labrador Retrievers shed a lot? Are they easy to groom? For such a shorthaired dog, Labrador Retrievers shed more than you might think — on the high side of average at least. The bulk of their shedding occurs twice a year, for three weeks in the spring as their thicker winter coat switches to a cooler summer coat, and three weeks in the fall as their summer coat switches over to a winter coat. But they also shed some all through the year. Labs need more brushing than some other shorthaired breeds because of the high shedding. If you don't diligently pull out the dead undercoat during regular grooming sessions, it will all fall out on your floors and furniture. On the plus side, obviously Labs need no trimming! Yellow Labrador. How long do Labrador Retrievers live? Are they a healthy breed? Labrador Retrievers typically live years. Many Labs do live to 12 or 13, but usually with chronic health issues such as arthritis. Unfortunately, an increasing number of beloved Labs are lost in middle age to inherited forms of cancer or heart disease. Common orthopedic diseases in Labradors include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and luxating patella loose knee joints , each of which causes chronic pain and lameness and can require expensive surgery. Labs are very prone to rupturing the ligaments in their hind legs — expensive surgery again. And if one hind leg ruptures, the other is likely to follow at a later time. Another surgery. It's a good idea to have pet insurance when you own a Lab. A number of eye diseases cause blindness in Labrador Retrievers. The breed is at higher-than-average risk for an emergency gastrointestinal syndrome called bloat, which can kill a healthy dog within hours. One example of an odd neuromuscular disease is called exercise-induced collapse. As the name suggests, affected Labradors who have been vigorously exercising suddenly begin swaying, collapse, and require a rest before they can move again. Here is a complete list of health problems in Labrador Retrievers. The three major colors of Labs are black, yellow, and chocolate. What colors do Labrador Retrievers come in? Officially, Labrador Retrievers come in black, yellow, and chocolate. They also come in silver gray , but this color is frowned on by breed purists. These are just made-up names for yellow Labs whose shade of yellow happens to be golden or reddish or whitish. Whatever the shade, it's still just a yellow Lab. Chocolate also comes in shades: from light coffee to deep chocolate brown. Now, what about silver Labrador Retrievers? The official breed clubs, and breeders who show their dog in the conformation ring, state that silver is a disqualified color for showing purposes. In fact, most Labrador breeders insist that silver dogs aren't even purebred. Their position is that the silver gene infiltrated the Labrador's gene pool by crossbreeding Labs with Weimaraners. I think they're probably right. I think that one or more Weimaraner crosses probably did introduce the silver gene at some point. However, since genetic diversity is a good thing in living creatures, I don't view cross-breeding as an evil thing. So if there are some Weimaraner genes floating around in a silver Labrador, that wouldn't bother me. On the other hand, if I wanted a dog who could be counted on to look and act like a Lab, you're more likely to get that in a Lab who isn't silver, especially if the silver breeder is still using Weimaraners in his breeding program. And based on the appearance of some silver "Labs", there are breeders who are still crossing in Weimaraners. But almost certainly silver Labrador Retrievers are here to stay. Even though they can't be shown, the AKC still accepts them for registration. However, in a funny twist, those registration papers don't say silver. Remember, the AKC says that Labs can only be black, chocolate, or yellow. So they register silver Labs as Chocolate, because they consider silver to be a dilution of the chocolate gene. In other words, according to the AKC, your silver Lab is actually a chocolate Lab also has inherited dilution gene that washes the chocolate into a silvery gray. It doesn't end there. Some silver Labs aren't silvery gray, but dark charcoal gray. Yellow, black, and chocolate Labrador Retriever puppies. I'll be happy to show you how to raise and train your new family member. Or check out my training tips to teach your Labrador Retriever puppy to be well-behaved. Also see my advice on Labrador Retriever health care , including feeding and vaccinations If you don't have a Labrador Retriever puppy, but you want one.I can help you with that, too. Labrador Retrievers are the most common breed in the United States, so they're very easy to find. The problem is finding one with the best chances of staying healthy through the years. First, you need to think about the different types of Labrador Retriever we talked about earlier. You can buy a Labrador Retriever puppy from a show breeder who breeds Labradors to match a detailed standard of appearance for the dog show ring. Or you can buy one from a performance breeder who emphasizes an energetic temperament and strong working drives for hunting. But how they prioritize those two goals can vary greatly. Or you can just hop onto Craigslist and buy a Labrador Retriever puppy from someone who "just breeds pets" or "just had one litter. Not unless the seller has done the proper health certifications on the puppy's parents. One huge difference between a responsible breeder and an irresponsible "puppy producer" is — health certifications. You might choose to accept that risk. But then you need to be willing and able to pay a couple thousand bucks for future surgeries and lifelong meds if your Labrador Retriever ends up with cataracts and crippled joints. Labrador Retrievers are often available from dog rescue groups. Labrador Retrievers may be turned over to Rescue because they shed too much or need more exercise than the owner was prepared to give. Or perhaps they pull on the leash or jump on people. You would need to provide these dogs with the exercise and training that they are lacking. Labrador Retrievers more often, Lab crosses and mixes are frequently found in animal shelters. However, shelter personnel can be overzealous in labeling every medium- to large shorthaired black dog as a "Lab cross. Did you know there's a quick and simple DNA test that can tell you definitively which breeds make up any given dog? What breeds are similar to Labrador Retrievers? The Golden Retriever is similar to a Labrador in being a great all-around family dog and a great choice for first-time owners. Compared to Labs, Goldens tend to be even more outgoing toward everyone and more eager to please. Goldens do shed more than Labs and have a greater risk of health issues. Compared to Labs and Goldens, the Flat-Coated Retriever needs more exercise and interesting activities to keep them busy. This is not a good breed for a casual or couch potato owner. Flat-Coats also suffer from serious health issues. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a great dog for experienced owners. Compared to the Lab, a Chessie has a stronger temperament, needs more exercise, is more reserved with strangers, and can be bossy toward strange dogs. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. To help you train and care for your dog Dog training videos. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Respect Training For Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. For puppies 2 to 18 months old. Your puppy will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. If your dog is over 18 months, you'll want Respect Training For Adult Dogs: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved dog. Again your dog will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. Teach Your Dog English Words is a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will teach your adult dog to listen to you and do what you say. Related posts you might enjoy. From puppyhood to old age care The black Lab is up to 24 inches tall and weighs up to 80lbs. Depending on on their ancestors, your black Labrador puppy may be a little smaller than this when they are fully grown. And the hunting or American Lab may have a lighter frame and a strong drive for retrieving. The lifespan of a black Labrador is 12 years, and some purebred black lab puppies can live even longer given the right diet, exercise and a healthy dose of luck. He was my constant companion almost into adulthood. He came on countless runs through the woods, spent hours playing ball in the backyard, but also sat with his head gently rested in my lap whenever I was sad. It has always amazed me that despite the black Labrador being the most common color, it is in some ways the least appreciated. With an amazing history of working alongside human companions, and a fabulous temperament, this pup really is one to watch. This black retriever has been favored by the hunting community for generations. But they were bred from a fishing companion that has been extinct now for nearly fifty years. This breed was also most likely the route of the rather different, and bigger, Newfoundland. Albeit often with white markings. Do you ever feel like you see more black Labs around than any other color? The first chocolate Labradors that we know of were born in the s, but colors other than black were not at all popular until the mid 90s. Horribly, for many generations most puppies born with chocolate or yellow coats were routinely euthanized at birth! If a puppy has inherited the gene for black coat color from either of her parents, this is the color that her coat will be. These both come from a pigment called eumelanin. More eumelanin leads to a black Lab, less leads to a chocolate. Genes come in pairs. Here we are dealing with B genes at the B locus. B is dominant over b. So a pairing of BB or Bb will give a black coat. Only bb will give a brown coat. A puppy gets one gene from each parent. With me so far? This is because these genes are also effected by another set of genes, at the E locus. E is dominant, and does not get in the way of the B genes. But e is recessive, and this does. It has the potential to stop the B genes giving a black or brown dog, and gives us yellow Labrador pups. And these all interact with each other differently to give different coat colors. This diagram explains them nicely: You can see from these combinations alone that the most common result is a black Lab puppy. But also how chocolate and yellow Labs were hidden for a time through careful matings and selective culling. But there is another twist to the black coat color tale. Occasionally a Lab is born with the dilute gene. This genetic twist essentially tones down the shade of the dark coat color. In the same way that the chocolate Lab looks silver when this gene is activated, the black Lab looks charcoal. In genetic terms, this dilute gene lives at the D locus. Popularity of Black Labs Black Labs have always been the most prevalent color, but their popularity has changed over the years. In the sporting dog community owners of hunting dogs still often prefer the black coat, but pet and show owners often show a preference these days for the paler colors. Chocolate and yellow Labs can even fetch higher prices from some breeders, not to mention the less common fox red and silver tones. Black Dogs Are Harder To Rehome There is a sad phenomenon in pet shelters, which impacts the rehoming rate of black dogs. Prospective owners often pass them by, regardless of temperament, in favor of the brighter colored pups on offer. But these adopters are missing a trick, because black dogs have so much to offer beyond their coat. And what they do offer differs slightly between the Labrador types. English Black Labs — bred for show There are two strains of Labrador. One was bred for the show ring, and the other was bred for the field. Although they are both Labs in the true sense, these separate strains can be quite different and are easy to pick apart if you know what you are looking for. English black Labradors are often preferred by pet homes as well as owners interested in the ring. The English black Lab has a reputation for being a little slower to mature, and a lot more playful. American Black Labs — bred to work American black Labs are slimmer, less excitable but more driven. They stand around the same height, but their heads are less broad and their tails often have less of the otter quality that their show companions sport. Although still friendly, they are perhaps less inclined to play than their show bred cousins. And in contrast to this have a stronger drive to retrieve and hunt. The English black Lab was bred for looks over purpose. Their broad head and barrel chest is matched with a straight, thick furred tail and a heavier weight on the scales. Black Labradors bred for show or as pets tend to be slower to mature, with a more playful personality, and are arguably less likely to run off after wildlife! Which Type Suits You? American black Labs may need more exercise and mental stimulation than English black Labs. They will benefit from gun dog style training involving retrieving exercises. Black Lab Characteristics Although there is no denying that the different Labrador strains have separated to a fair dramatic degree, these are still all fundamentally black Labs. And they do have some features in common that makes them who they are. The Lab has a double coat, excellent for keeping them warm in and out of the water. Their thick straight tail is described as having an otter-like appearance. And they are almost all one single color with no other markings. Mismarked Labs rear their heads from time to time, but this is generally just a case of white toes or a splash of white on their chests. Grooming and Coat Care Your black Lab needs no special grooming due to his coat color. In fact, the grooming requirements of your Labrador Retriever are some of the simplest among dog breeds. Their coats are designed to take care of themselves. Though your furniture and floors may benefit if your dog has a twice daily brush when shedding heavily. Other than that Labs have a wonderful coat that requires only occasional washing. The eventual size of your black Lab puppy will depend a little upon their upbringing, and a lot upon whether they are from American or English lines. An adult black Lab will weigh anywhere from 55 to 80 lbs, and be from 21 to .The English black Lab will tend to be closer to the heavier end of the spectrum, and the American nearer to the lower. Black Lab Temperament Labradors are well known for being friendly. Perhaps sometimes a little too friendly! This bouncy breed is more likely to leap up and lick a burglar than to stop him in the act. The downside of this is that they can be easily distracted at the dog park by wanting to greet everyone they come across. Their jolly, lively nature can also lead them into trouble with people who are unsteady on their feet. Although lovably clumsy, this dog also has a brilliant brain. Intelligence Black Labradors have been bred for generations as hunting companions. Deliberately bred from dogs that were attentive to their handlers and relatively easy to teach commands to, they are absolutely an intelligent breed. Because to get that black coat expressed is just a matter of mating two dogs, whereas to get the recessive genes you need to at least partially make your breeding choices based upon the colors of the parents as well as factors to do with temperament and trainability. But the most important factor when bringing together two Lab lines should always be one of health. Training and Exercising Your Black Lab Black Labs are intelligent dogs and training is an absolute essential for them and their owners. RUnning, swimming, cycling, hiking and even dock diving are popular pass times. Although American Labs tend to be more driven to fetch, English Labradors are often still keen too. Both types need a good workout every day to keep them fit and healthy. And to help them relax at home. You can exercise your dog with a traditional walk, by going for a run together or through play. Retrieving games are a great way to give your Lab a lot of exercise without you having to travel quite such a long distance yourself. You can find some great ideas for games you and your Labrador can play together in this article. Black Lab Health The best way to avoid health problems is by purchasing a puppy from health tested parents. The main areas to be aware of are joint problems and eye problems. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common Lab complaints. This condition ranges in severity and an adult dog can have x rays to assess their joint health, and be given a score to let you know how well their joints have developed. To avoid your puppy suffering from this either both parents need to be Clear or one Clear one Carrier. If one is a carrier, your puppy might carry the gene too. A general eye exam once a year will make sure that there are no other vision problems manifesting over time. Most breeders advertise online now, so you will need to be careful to have a good chat with them before committing to buying a puppy. Do not put down a deposit before meeting the mother and the litter at their home. The mum should be relaxed and happy to meet you, and for you to handle her pups. If you are looking for a pet you will need to decide whether you think a show or working temperament is better suited to your lifestyle and family needs. Make sure the breeder willingly shows you copies of health certificates from both parents. As a minimum they should be PRA clear, have a recent clear eye check from a vet, have good hip scores and an elbow score of 0. If one parent has been shown as a carrier for dwarfism or PRA, be sure to check that the other has been tested clear. Good breeders ask lots of questions because they care about what happens to their pups, and will be open and willing to answer all of your questions too. You might find it helpful to check out our article on Labrador breeders before you start searching for a pup. You might also want to read this article: Choosing the Right Dog. The information in these articles will help you avoid some of the common mistakes people make when looking for their new best friend. Rescuing a Black Lab Rescuing a dog is a great thing to do if your circumstances are right. And rescuing a black Lab is even better, as this color can be hard to home. Reputable rescues will work hard to match you to the right dog, and help you to make a choice that fits in well with your family. Rescuing such a dog can be very rewarding. We hope you will find our article Should you adopt a Labrador helpful. You can view a list of rehoming societies on our rescue page. They will also offer plenty of support and help once you bring your dog home. Especially when it comes to behavioral and training problems. White or grey hairs may start forming around their muzzle, giving them a bearded or grizzled look. This pale hair is nothing to worry about and happens to most black Labs sooner or later. As your black Lab reaches old age, you might find that he slows down a bit. His typical energetic black Lab personality may mellow. He will be less boisterous, and more inclined to spend the day in bed than bouncing up and down by your side. The average lifespan of a black Lab is around 12, but if you are lucky your pup might be with you for 14 or more years. A more comfortable bed, ideally with memory foam, can help support those ageing joints. Ramps for accessing the car can really help them out too. Depending upon advice from your vet you might also want to switch them to a senior dog food , which is easier to digest and has additives that some believe can help slow the pace of arthritis. Drakeshead Labs How your Lab behaves and what they look like will depend to some extent on their origins. What are the two types of Labrador Retrievers? The two different types of Labradors are American Labradors, also known as field bred or working Labradors, and the English Labradors, bred for showing. Why are there different types of Lab? Labrador Retrievers were developed as the breed we know today by a couple of English aristocrats in the s who were passionate about shooting gamebirds birds. His job was to fetch dead and wounded game back to his master. And deliver it to hand undamaged, so that it could become a valuable and sustaining source of food. This is still the role of many working Labradors today, but so popular have the breed become as companions, that far more of these lovely dogs now live out their lives as family pets Labradors become pets Labradors first became popular as pets around the time that the first dog shows were springing up and exhibiting dogs was becoming a fashionable hobby. Gradually the two lines of Labrador — those bred for a role as sporting dogs, and those bred for a role as show dogs — began to diverge As the years passed the working type Labrador and show type Labrador became more different from one another. And breeding between the two types became less common. Capable of winning in the show ring and in the field. But as Field Trial competitions became more demanding, field bred labs became more specialised, faster, and more focused. Some not all lost their classic Labrador looks. While show bred Labs became a little more exaggerated, chunkier, heavier, and shorter in the leg. These names have nothing to do with location and everything to do with role. And the same applies to the terms English and show or bench type Lab. Whichever country you happen to be in. There has always been some flexibility in the roles that these dogs play. Many Labs of either type are incredibly versatile. Many English Labs will do a passable job of fetching a bird for you. And many American Labs will do a good job of being the family pet. But there are differences that may affect your choice. American type Labrador The working strain Labrador is likely to be easier to train. It may be easier for example, for an inexperienced owner to get him walking nicely on a lead. The American Labrador has a quick mind as well as a quick body, and is often a very sensitive soul that lives to please. Extremes of sensitivity can occasionally lead to nervousness, but on the whole, temperament is sound throughout the breed. Outdoors in the open, American Labradors may have very strong hunting instincts and be more likely to pursue your local wildlife. This can be a problem for those living in rural areas or exercising their dogs in countryside populated with rabbits or squirrels! This is something to consider if you like to relax and chat with friends whilst out walking. English type Labrador English type Labs are often heavier than their field bred cousins, and shorter in the leg. They may also be less agile. As juveniles, some English Labs can be extremely playful and distractible which can be a challenge, especially if you exercise your dog in busy dog parks where they are mixing with a lot of other dogs. My working type Labrador Tess, was quite grown up and sensible by the time her first birthday came along. My part show dog Rachael is six and is still not quite grown up! One final thought, in the UK, show bred labs are perhaps more likely to be noisy or prone to whining than American Labs. I get asked this question quite a bit! Drakeshead is actually just a British Labrador Kennel name. The Drakeshead Kennel is a famous kennel in England that breeds and competes very successfully working type Labradors. They also export Labradors to other countries. If your Labrador is from the Drakeshead kennels, his pedigree will have the word Drakeshead as part of his registered pedigree Kennel Name. There are many other successful breeders of American or field type Labradors in the UK. And many well known breeders of field type Labs in the USA too. Which is type of Lab is best for me? And it depends a bit on what you expect from your dog, and on where you live. If you want to get active with your dog, and maybe get involved with some Labrador activities or sports, then a Labrador from working lines might suit you best. American type Labradors for activities and hunting Working bred labs respond best to lots of human contact and a more managed approach to exercise outdoors. American Labs also tend to be more focused on their handler and may be more responsive to training. This can be helpful if you want to get involved in a sport or activity that involves your dog. Dog agility is a popular sport that American type Labs can excel at, while English Labs may lack the agility to compete at a high level. If you want a pet that is also a hunting companion then an American type Lab is your best choice. And it may be easier to manage this show type Lab outdoors, due to his less intense hunting instincts. But perhaps the main reason people who are not looking for a hunting companion may choose an English Lab is because they love the way that they look. Types of Labrador Heads One of the most distinctive separate features of the two types of Labrador Retrievers is their heads. If you are hoping for a chunky dog with classic Labrador good looks and a distinctive thick otter tail, then you do stand more chance of getting the dog you want from English or show lines. Just remember English Labs tend to take longer to grow up, be more playful, and more interested in introducing themselves to every passing stranger. Beauty if of course in the eye of the beholder. And some of those at home with the working type Lab will find the head size and shorter legs of the English Lab unattractive. Both types of Labrador can make great family dogs though the English type may be a little less prone to be shy or anxious. Dual purpose Labs A few breeders in the UK are attempting to re-create the dual purpose Labradors of the last century. Good looking medium weight dogs of substance with nice thick tails. Dogs with solid broad heads, thick coats, a well focused attentive brain inside them, and some powerful hunting and retrieving instincts. I think this is great news for Labradors as many working bred labs have quite poor conformation. And some show Labs are too heavily built and lack some of the focus and great retrieving instincts of their working cousins. Mixing the two lines can however, produce variable results and is always a bit of a gamble. You could end up with a dog with poor conformation and poor hunting and retrieving instincts. Whichever type of Labrador you choose for a pet, make sure you choose your breeder wisely. Getting a healthy puppy that has had a healthy start in life is more important than any of the above considerations. And that happy, confident Labrador temperament we expect from these beautiful dogs should be your number one priority. Different types of Labrador Here are some broad guidelines that do not apply to all individuals of either type. For a hunting companion or to fulfil your ambition to take part in Dog Agility, choose an American or working type Labrador. And for a more sensitive, focused and trainable dog, also go for a working type Labrador For the classic Labrador tail, and chunky head, with robust and playful temperament, go for and English, or show type. If you are a bit of a gambler and none of these things matter very much to you, then a mix between the two types might suit you. But remember that these are very broad guidelines. There are huge differences between litters, and between individuals in the same litter. Whichever type of Labrador you choose, be sure to check out health clearances, and meet the parents to ensure great temperament. Plus, she had the most beautiful coat that rarely needed bathing, unlike a purebred Labrador that tends to be oily. Our beloved Toby was with us as a 12 year lesson in how to love, he loved everyone ,well almost he had been known to chase bulls, bears and coyotes, he was fearless when it came to protecting us, but had a lick for all dogs and people, our hearts are broken at his passing. They are wonderful friends, adorable pups, friendly adults, and caring and generous geriatrics. Never a harsh bark or stingy attitude, they are willing to share everything with another dog or guest. My wife and I opened our home to Foster dogs for few years and our boy welcomed each and every one with a courteous bow and a shower of his toys. As an aside, for sportsmen, they make terrific upland retrievers. They are effortless to train in all things and stay by you until told to go afield. They shed. They shed a lot. And they are worth the effort of a daily vacuum. You need to brush them. But never give them a bath. My dad once told me they need to go swimming a few times a year and like a lot more! And my dad had a nose. We wouldn't have another breed. But don't get one unless you can commit to over a dozen years of unbridled love. They require a long walk every day which is good for you, too good healthy food, a wide spot on your bed, yes yours, access to your couch, favorite easy chair, and the spot under the table where your feet are supposed to be. If you can't willingly give all that, a few toys, take them with you on vacation, and forgive them for chasing your fishing lures when you cast.Try another breed of dog. When you find a golden lab you should be ready to make them a family member. And know this, even after they leave you and go wait for you in the clearing at the end of the path they will never leave your heart. He is a wonderful, happy guy and loves everything. He's got all the enthusiasm that he should have as a retriever and we can't fault him for that! Great family pet and friend. You should be an energetic person or household to get this breed mix because they do need a lot of activity and stimulation to be happy. He's currently just less than 2 years old and weighs in at about 90lbs. Very smart, gentle, affectionate, loyal, playful, curious, and a good watch dog. He's quite easy to take care of but does shed a bit. He has not destroyed anything in the house other than his own toys, of which he is very skilled at rapidly shredding. I don't think that this type of dog would do well being left home alone a lot however. This would probably be fine if there was more than one dog, but this breed does not like being left alone. I never had a better dog. Loving ,obedient and playful. We were blessed to have him for 11 years and 10 months. We'll get another one eventually. Passing 2 years ago. She was gentle and loving and great with people and other dogs. They are smart an loves kids. He is my last dog because no other dog could take his place! His name,"Buck". That was 69 years ago in Payette, Idaho. To this day It has been difficult to forget. His name has often been the security answer to some accounts. One day I will have Buck y II. We are looking to get another one when the timing is right Rating: Golden Labrador Breed Review by Jill We purchased a golden Labrador from greenfield puppies and she is wonderful! Very even-tempered and easygoing. The female was a chocolate lab and the male was a golden retriever. She had 8 puppies. We had two black males. One was larger than the other. He was about lbs. One liked to wander off. The other was very obedient. They loved to play fetch. They just started bringing over the ball or stick to us to throw. They also loved water. They would jump in after a stick and swim back with it. The bigger one passed away at 11 y. The other passed away at 13 just from old age. We actually got the dogs before we had children. The larger one was very loving to the children. The smaller one was friendly but always had a hair across his bleep bc the children took away our attention from him. Overall, they were the best dogs. They were friendly with other dogs and loved people in general. We could take them anywhere. My husband use to take them with him on his daily run. They enjoyed the exercise. They loved people too much. Hope this helps picking your next family member! European mom, American Dad. So not inbred. Looking for a Lab or better a Golden Lab to breed her to. Located in Utah. Know any Golden Lab breeders or dogs in the west? Research inbreeding in Dogs. They don't allow that in Europe etc. Need both parents with good genetic health. Poodles have a dozen major genetic problems. What is personality of Golden Labs? Maggie is incredibly affectionate. Best nose ever. We don't hunt and she has no interest in ducks, our chickens etc. They are loyal, excellent with children, patient, smart and easily trained. They do like to chew though. They become what you make of them. If you are laid back the dog will be laid back; if you are energetic the dog will keep up. Loyal, kind and watchful, they love your attention and approval. Wicked smart and energetic. Loves long walks and chasing fun things. Bit of a free spirit too. Beautiful, loving dog. Ours in 8 years old. Ready to add another to our family. With a broken heart we had to let her go. She was the most loving and affectionate dog my grandkids loved her as she loved them. Its been 9 months since her passing and I am considering getting another. He is the most unbelievable dog. After having two full labs, I was amazed at how perfect this dog is. He is smart, kind, loving, protective -- everything you want a dog to be. He is quick to pick up tricks and commands. Golden Labradors are the best family dogs. What adog can. Downright my favorite memories were with him. It's been two years since my Ruby and I'm ready for a new friend. My cousin lives in Maine and he had 2 that passed and he went and got 2 more. Archie was the easiest to house break I have had him from a puppy and he has never done any thing in the house. We love him forever. He is getting older he is 11 years old and we know what is coming and would like another one to help cope with it. She was the BEST of the best!!! I believe it was because the these 2 breeds together. .I will not ever be able to replace her, So I know in my heart my next golden Lab will have to be buff or red in color.I hope to be able to purchase from Greenfield Puppies!!! He would have been 20 in Dec this year. Everyone said he looked like a golden retriever. I miss him terribly! Love this mix breed. She just turn 3 years old. She is the most lovable dog I ever had. I found her on you sight. I am thinking of get a puppy. Not sure yet. I will come back to Greenfield when I am ready. I would recommend this breed to anyone who loves a retriever type dog. We receive so many compliments. Will only get this breed in the future. They make great service dogs. She was smart,loving,loved to eat! Our kids were older so she wasn't use to little kids. Love to play. Would take a ball and roll it down the hill and play by herself. She should have been a search and rescue dog! She love to play hide and seek. Very smart! Loyal, protective yet playful and fun. Needs training of course but best dog ever! Rating: Golden Labrador Breed Review by Paula Esposito My mother owns an 8 year old female and that dog is the most wonderful companion for her. They are the most wonderful dog in every way except for her penchance for rolling in stinky stuff!!!!! Unfortunately, she pass away last November. I have been looking for another around here in CT but have not found what I'm looking for. Rating: Golden Labrador Breed Review by charlotte awesome! The love families of all ages and pets of course. They are easy to train. They love to swim. They shed less the the Labrador And Golden Retriever. They are very affectionate to their household. They love the company. They love to play. Sometimes nap in the middle of the day. I know the normal age that both sires pass at is around .During his 16 years, Peabs has been loyal, loving, energetic. Oddly, he never did the Lab trait of eating until the food was gone. It has been perfectly fine to leave a full bowl around him and he will eat only when hungry. He is the best dog I ever had in 47 years of being a dog owner. The intelligence, sweetness, loyalty, and friendly qualities of both make this the best breed ever, I would never get another kind. Love them!!!

Anyone on the internet could throw prices around, and knowing what you should pay can be challenging. Read on to learn all about German Shepherd puppy sales. Where to find a German Shepherd puppy? There are a ton of options when looking for a German Shepherd puppy. Your second choice is to find a rescue that might have a German Shepherd puppy. Depending on your area, there are various reputable rescues with guarantees and warranties on the puppy that will be joining your family. A third option is to go through Mission K9 , which has retired military German Shepherds available for adoption. Your last option is to ask for a referral from a few different sources. Your vet, dog clubs, boarding kennels, or groomers can all have advice on great options for a puppy. They will know reputable breeders around town and send you to a trustworthy source. What is a reasonable German Shepherd puppy prize? Different factors like age, color, location, and breeder cost will apply. These fees also differ depending on the rescue and organization you find your puppy through. Now, if your friend or neighbor has a German Shepherd puppy for sale, you will probably still have to pay for the puppy. What affects the price of a German Shepherd puppy? As puppies get older, the price begins to decrease. Other factors that can contribute to the price of your German Shepherd puppy are the following: Coat color: a rare white German Shepherd will cost more than your standard black and tan. Lineage and bloodlines: puppies that come for a line of show dogs and pedigrees will cost more money. Location: Populated cities will have a higher price for puppies than smaller communities. Certificates and warranty: Reputable breeders will have a lifetime warranty on their dogs and provide adequate documentation. Why should you buy a German Shepherd from a reputable breeder? When buying a German Shepherd puppy, a reputable breeder is one of the most important things to look for. There are several reasons why it is important to buy a German Shepherd from a reputable breeder: Health: Reputable breeders screen their breeding dogs for genetic health problems and only breed the healthiest animals. This can help reduce the likelihood of your puppy developing certain health issues later on. Temperament: Reputable breeders strive to breed for good temperament and work to socialize and expose their puppies to a variety of people, sights, and sounds. This can help ensure that your puppy grows up to be well-adjusted and confident. Ethical breeding practices: Reputable breeders follow ethical breeding practices and have the best interests of the breed at heart. They do not overbreed their dogs or breed animals that are too closely related. Matching a dog with the owner: Good breeders know their breed and know their puppies. They will help match you with the best puppy for your lifestyle. Lifetime support: Reputable breeders are a good resource for information and support throughout the life of your dog. They can answer questions about training, nutrition, and general care and are often willing to help with any problems or concerns you may have. How do I choose a reputable German Shepherd breeder? A reputable breeder will make it known they care about the puppy. They will want multiple visits from you and your family to see how you interact with the breed. You want to choose a breeder that offers information on genetic testing of the parents and certificates for their hips, elbows, eyes, and knees. Unless otherwise discussed, responsible breeders will have you sign a contract for spaying or neutering your dog. Here are a couple of places to stay away from: Online classified websites Websites such as Craigslist and eBay Classifieds often have listings for German Shepherd puppies. However, be aware that these websites can also be used by scammers and unethical breeders, so you will need to be careful when considering a puppy from one of these sources. Pet stores Some pet stores may have German Shepherd puppies for sale. However, be aware that pet store puppies may come from puppy mills and may not have been raised in the best conditions. Backyard breeders are popular online and try to sell their dogs for a steal of a price. Things to avoid when buying a puppy Another thing to be aware of is puppy mills. This includes veterinary care, vaccination, spaying or neutering, food, and other expenses. This does not include emergency vet visits. Before buying a German Shepherd: Consider this There is no denying that the German Shepherd Dog is one of the most wonderful dog in the world. Hands down. German Shepherd puppies are the cuttiest and one of the most mouthiest thing you can expect. Mind you there is a lot of work in owning a big and energetic dog like the German Shepherd. Here are some of the questions you may want to ask yourself just to make sure you are well-prepared: Are you willing to spend most of your time with your GSD for the next 10 years or so? Will you give your love and care to a child that never grows? Do you have an active lifestyle? Are you willing to train your dogs from an early age? This can give gives you the opportunity to experience firsthand what it is like to have a GSD in your home and to see if you are ready for the commitment of dog ownership. This can help you determine if the breed or size of the dog is a good fit for your lifestyle. The good news is, we already have a list where you can find a German Shepherd rescue and adoption list in your area. Papers will also show your puppy comes from a reputable breeder. Can I adopt a German Shepherd puppy for free? Even through a shelter or rescue, getting the dog comes with a fee. What is the cost of a rescue German Shepherd? More posts on German Shepherd Puppies Recommended post. Degenerative Myelopathy Von Willebrand Disease Perhaps the most well-known is hip dysplasia, a condition that causes the hip joint to develop abnormally. This can lead to pain and lameness, and eventually requiring surgery. German Shepherds are also at risk for elbow dysplasia, a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Other common health problems include allergies, intestinal issues, and eye problems. With proper care and diet, however, German Shepherds can live long and healthy lives. Finding a German Shepherd puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. While German Shepherds are often considered to be low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, their coats do require some care and attention. The most important thing to know about German Shepherd coat care is that the breed does not shed uniformly throughout the year. After the shedding period has ended, you can reduce the frequency of brushing to once or twice a week. In addition to regular brushing, German Shepherds also need to be bathed on occasion. How often you need to bathe your German Shepherd will depend on factors such as how often they play outside and whether they have any allergies or skin sensitivities. Generally speaking, however, a once-monthly bath is sufficient for most dogs. German Shepherd Puppies For Sale. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, 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 barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.

Based in the Los Angeles, California metro area, Sheri has over 20 years of dog training experience and also runs a general dog training practice specializing in rehabilitating dogs through positive reinforcement training techniques. This article has been viewed 73, times. You're looking to add a gorgeous, sweet, and super friendly golden retriever to your family. How exciting! You want to make sure your dog is as healthy, good natured, and happy as possible, but how can you know for sure? Choosing a trusted breeder or hobby breeder meaning, someone passionate about goldens who breeds the dog as a hobby is the way to go. Below, we'll walk you through your decision and offer some helpful tips for determining whether or not a breeder is the right pick. Read on to discover how you can buy a golden retriever puppy. Steps Section 1 of 5: Why should I get my puppy from a trusted breeder? All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. This means that if your puppy inherits an illness, the breeder will offer a refund. Your breeder will know their litters well. They'll advise you on your choice, depending on your needs and behavioral preferences. If something were to go wrong and you could no longer keep your puppy, it would likely have a safe home with its breeder. All in all, trustworthy breeders will have taken every necessary step to ensure each puppy is happy and healthy. Advertisement Section 2 of 5: Why should I avoid puppy mills, pet shops, and online posts? Puppy mills, pet shops, and online puppy sales often posted by puppy mills are motivated by money, not a genuine passion for breeding. Because of this, you can expect that each of these sources have cut corners. They won't have followed proper procedure that ensures your golden will be healthy, well-behaved, and standard in appearance. In addition to this, puppies from these sources are typically subjected to terrible, inhumane conditions at some point in the breeding process. Section 3 of 5: How can I find a trusted breeder? When hunting for a breeder on your own, it can be difficult to differentiate between scammers, irresponsible breeders, and genuine, high-quality breeders. The Golden Retriever Club of America has locations all over the country and is made up of golden retriever enthusiasts motivated by a love of the breed. Choose the club closest to you, get in touch with a GRCA volunteer via the contact information on the their website, and speak to a volunteer about the best, ethical breeders in your area. Advertisement Section 4 of 5: What questions should you ask a breeder? The answer to all three questions should be "yes. This refers to whether or not you will be compensated if the puppy falls ill. Do they belong to a breed club? This way, you can speak to their club as you would a reference. What have they been feeding the litter? It'll be crucial that you keep the puppy on the same diet for a few days after it's brought home. Do they offer support to the new owners of their puppies? It'll be helpful to know how much assistance your breeder offers with training and health concerns as the puppy grows up. Section 5 of 5: How can I avoid bad breeders? When looking out for responsible vs. A bad breeder may have many puppies at once. When done properly, breeding is time consuming. A good breeder will have only a few puppies at a time. Often, the reason this happened is because of irresponsible breeding. To increase your chances of having a happy, healthy, good-natured dog, you want to choose a reputable breeder. But how do you find one? Keep on reading to learn how! If you have two healthy parents as well as healthy grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts and uncles, previous litters from these parents, etc. Temperament is inherited. Everything that was said about health also goes for temperament. Inbreeding is a major problem with golden retrievers where dogs that are too closely related can produce unhealthy puppies. Responsible breeders will know and take steps to prevent this. If anything were to go wrong, you would want a breeder with integrity to help navigate the problems, whether that ends up in a refund, a replacement puppy, etc. For a new and inexperienced puppy buyer, it can be hard to distinguish a good breeder from an irresponsible one. For one, the mom and dad will have received OFA clearances for their hips, elbows, and heart, as well as clearances for their eyes, which is a yearly exam. To help further decide on whether or not a breeder is reputable, the next section covers a big list of questions for you to ask a breeder. What Questions To Ask A Breeder This section is broken down into questions to ask about the breeder themselves, questions to ask about the sire and dam, and questions to ask about the puppies. Questions to ask about the breeder themselves Why did you choose to breed golden retrievers? You want a breeder that truly has a passion for the golden retriever breed. How long have you been breeding golden retrievers? At what age do you start to breed your dogs? Goldens must be two years old to receive final clearances on their hips and elbows, so if a breeder tells you they start to breed their dogs before two years old, watch out. Do you provide registration papers? They should provide AKC registration papers for you. Do you participate in any dog sport or activities? Most good breeders are involved in something other than just breeding. Their dogs participate in sports, shows, or are even therapy dogs. Is there a contract when I buy the puppy? There should be a contract that covers costs, refunds, responsibilities, etc. If they do require the pups to be spayed or neutered , this will be in the contract. What happens in case something goes wrong? This is also a good time to feel them out and see if this has ever happened before. Do you have any references I can talk to? Good breeders will have previous happy customers. Are you a member of the Golden Retriever Club of America or any local golden retriever clubs? Most breeders have a specific reason they were excited to breed two dogs together. How many litters has this mom had? And how old is she? Can you provide proof of the health clearances for these two dogs? Do these dogs have any titles? Can I meet the parents? The parents should be friendly and outgoing to you and any other dogs around. Questions to ask about the puppies How do you socialize the puppies? A good breeder will be able to talk to you about this. Where are the puppies born and raised? Are they raised in the home, or out back in the shed? Will they be examined by a vet before they go home? The answer should be yes. What are the puppies bred for? This may include being bred for companions pets , or show, sport, or hunting. They may ask you: Have you owned a dog before? Do you currently have a dog? What type of lifestyle are you expecting with your new golden? Why do you want a golden retriever? Do you have children? What kind of home do you live in? How much time will you be able to spend with the puppy? Is it because the breeder is inexperienced and just trying to get started? Is it because they come from champion bloodlines? Is the breeder is experienced and takes their time to properly care for the mother, socialize and stimulate the puppies, feed them the best food, and take them to the best veterinarian? Or is it because the breeder is a good salesman and can charge a premium for their puppies? Check out this article to learn more about how much golden retrievers cost. One of the best ways is to go to a local club check out this list of them by location , email or call them, and ask them to refer you to a good breeder. Another way is to ask your friends who have golden retrievers where they got them. This is how we found our golden, Oliver. A friend from church had a golden and we went over to their house and met him. We instantly fell in love and decided we needed to get his brother. You can also find breeders on Google, Facebook, or Instagram. To find a good breeder ask about health clearances, pedigree, temperament, ask to meet the parents and try to get a referral. Have any other questions about choosing a golden retriever breeder? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. This could cost you thousands of dollars in medical bills down the road. On the other hand, when you buy the animal from a licensed Golden Retriever breeder, you can pick out your future puppy with confidence. Not only will proof of his pedigree show that your breeder is certified, but it will also verify that your puppy is a true Golden Retriever. The best puppy breeders take pride in providing healthy dogs through careful genetic research. They should be so confident in their work that they offer you a health guarantee , which will tell you what to do if your puppy faces any unforeseen health issues. Since breeders are there from the day the puppies and their parents! And picking the right pet for your family starts with finding a breeder you can trust. No matter how nice they seem or how attractive their website looks, you should always do a little bit of research before choosing a Golden Retriever breeder. Here are important points that all breeders should address: Image Source Does the breeder give back to the breed? Breed preservation should be the primary goal of Golden Retriever breeders. They should participate in keeping the species alive through membership at a Golden Retriever breed dog club, a performance club, or an obedience club. What type of experience does the breeder have? Do they stay true to the pure genetic traits of the breed? Do they provide health screenings and health guarantees? Can you meet the puppies and parents in person? How many litters do the females have each year? Female Golden Retrievers can have up to two litters per year. However, breeders who follow ethical practices will only allow the females to have four to six litters in their lifetime. A female can breed between the ages of two and eight. Once you choose a breeder that seems like a good fit for you and your family, you should write up some questions to ask them. And in return, expect some questions about you, your lifestyle, and your home! One of the first things any breeder you inquire about should provide is a list of former buyers. Reviews posted online are one thing, but being able to talk with customers directly speaks volumes about the legitimacy of the breeder. When you speak with their former customers, ask questions about their buying experience and how their dog is doing years after purchase. Puppies should receive some level of preventative care that is appropriate for their age. Newborn puppies up to eight weeks old should stay with their mothers, but they will also receive their first round of core vaccines during these few weeks. They should have a yearly examination by a licensed veterinarian that will perform vaccines, flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, as well as general health checkups. A reputable, passionate breeder will be more than happy to receive updates and questions about their puppies well into adulthood. With that being said, the breeder should also provide a health guarantee. A health guarantee states that you are not financially liable for any genetic issues in the puppy, as long as the health condition is verified by a certified veterinarian. This is an essential point that you might not think twice about. A good Golden Retriever breeder will ask questions to determine if your household is a good fit for their puppy. Image Source 1 Why do you want a dog? This is a simple yet important question that you should have an answer to. Golden Retriever breeders that dedicate their livelihood to continuing the pure genetic bloodline will want to know what appeals to you about these energetic companions. Additionally, the breeder might ask who will be walking, feeding, and playing with the dog. Golden Retriever puppies require tons of attention, especially during the first two years of their lives. If the breeder asks this, they want to know how your children will be participating in the handling of the puppy. They also want to understand how you plan to introduce the puppy to other pets so they can coexist safely within the same home. No matter how nice a breeder may seem, you want to avoid accidentally contributing to backyard breeders or a puppy mill disguised as a reputable breeder. Doing so can cost you thousands of dollars in medical bills and years of potential heartbreak. Here are some of the most critical and obvious warning signs of an untrustworthy breeder. Less experienced breeders will charge on the lower end, and more experienced breeders usually with generations of pure genetic proof! Additionally, some of the best breeders will only sell trained puppies to ensure their pooches are family- and forever-home ready. Therefore, you should receive standard documentation upon adopting your new Golden Retriever puppies, such as care instructions, registration papers, vaccination records, and necessary contracts. The contract may also state that you agree to surrender the puppy instead of adopting him out to a shelter or the pound. Some warranties will say that the breeder should have the right to reclaim the puppy in an unexpected situation like this. If you do ask for references, and they give you a list of written reviews instead of contact information for former clients, this is a red flag. A refusal for a tour means that the breeder knows potential clients may be turned away by the environment. If you are invited to tour a facility, learn about what a professional kennel should look and smell like first. The bottom line is, you need to do plenty of research. Buying A Golden Retriever From A Respectable, Professional Breeder Purchasing a Golden retriever Puppy from a respected, responsible professional breeder is by far the best option when it comes to getting yourself a good quality, healthy puppy given the best start in life. A responsible professional breeder: Cares greatly about the overall quality and welfare of the breed and selectively breeds for the betterment of the Golden Retriever population as a whole. Screen sire and dam for health issues in trying to breed puppies with the lowest possible chance of inherited disease. Will help you to select the right puppy for you from the many different personalities in their litter. Not all dogs are created equal! Some are more energetic, more headstrong, more confident, others less so. They will match you to the perfect puppy for your hopes and lifestyle. They handle, care for, and socialize puppies in such an expert way that the puppies have had the best possible start in life and the greatest chance of growing up a confident, happy dog of good temperament. They provide some of the best advice and support that can be given about how you should care for your new family member, from the moment you make the decision right through your Goldens entire life. So as you can see, there are many benefits to buying from a professional breeder. But surely there must be some cons you may be thinking? Well it depends how you look at it, but: A professional breeder will ask you many questions to be sure you are a good fit and have the right lifestyle that fits in with owning a Golden Retriever. You could have a long wait. Good breeders are popular and do not breed excessively, so you may have to wait a year or more before a puppy becomes available. But a benefit to this is that it weeds out the impulse buyers which cuts down on puppies that are given up after rushed decisions. Compared to some other options, you will pay quite a high price. I say a high price but what I mean is a fair price really. A fair price for a good quality, healthy puppy. But mostly backyard breeders are the unscrupulous types. You usually will not be able to see the premises on which the puppies are bred, they will not ask any questions of prospective owners and there will be no commitment or offer of help and advice for the future of the puppies they breed. This results in a poorer quality of life for the animals, and expensive vet bills for the owners. One positive of backyard breeders though is the price. Yes, they are considerably cheaper than professional breeders. And the savings you make up front are more than lost for extra vet bills down the road. So the risk is your puppy has a higher chance of inherited disease and behavior problems than the general population. There will be no true guarantee of pedigree. But if your friend has taken steps to get veterinary advice and care for the puppies, has looked after and socialized them well, maybe even knows the father of the puppies and can prove he is of good health and pedigree then this option may not be so bad. However they got into the situation, there are way too many homeless dogs in the world. Lack of space and insufficient funding inevitably means that many dogs each year are euthanized. Maybe you could give a second chance at life to such a dog? But you should also be aware that some rescued dogs will have behavioral issues, though the center staff will inform you of this. They may also have suffered some level of abuse and have psychological issues, phobias or anxieties that may not be evident until a certain situation arises. So there is some due diligence and this greatly increases the success rate of finding happy homes for dogs that suit their new human family. This is obviously a good thing for both the dogs and hopeful owners too! Buying From A Pet Store Or A Puppy Mill A large number of dogs bought from pet stores originate from puppy farms, also known as puppy mills, which are profit driven businesses that mass-produce dogs and sell through pet stores and classifieds. In puppy mills, dogs are bred in appalling conditions, kept in overcrowded small wire cages, given little exercise or socialization, enjoy no human contact and receive nothing in the way of veterinary care. The puppies are usually taken away from their mothers and litter-mates at such a young age that behavioral issues in the adult dog are extremely common. The dogs in puppy mills are no more than a commodity, a cash crop to be produced and harvested while spending as little as possible to maximize profits as far as possible. Yes, many people have been lucky enough to have purchased the most glorious of family pets from a pet store, but for each one a lot of suffering has occurred for countless more. I strongly advise that you do not support the puppy mill industry and never buy a dog from a puppy mill or pet store. The risks of not getting a quality, healthy dog are too high, and the ethics of the industry are shocking with many dogs suffering at their hands. Everybody should work to eradicate the entire industry and the first step is by not supporting them financially. There are many places and options available to get a Golden Retriever puppy, some good, some bad, and puppy mills and pet stores just an appalling option to be avoided. In my opinion your 2 best options are to source a puppy from a professional breeder or to adopt from a rescue center. But there are other options available and I hope this article has given you some information to help you in your decision. Please let us know about your experiences of getting a GR from any of the sources above, or even one I may have forgotten. Thank you.

Though size varies between individuals, a standard German Shepherd weighs about 60 pounds. Whether you already own a German Shepherd pup or are looking into it, be prepared for a hefty lap dog! Continue to 7 of 16 below. They were originally bred for their striking good looks and intelligence, making for a great working dog on the police force and in the military. They were so cute that dog-lovers in other countries soon caught on and began breeding them themselves. Continue to 8 of 16 below. These dogs are very protective of their homes and family and make excellent guard dogs. Continue to 9 of 16 below. They need stimulation, even if they are a family pet and not a trained deputy. This can be in the form of playful games, puzzle toys, tricks , and obedience training. Otherwise, German Shepherds may show off some unpleasant behavior, like chewing. Continue to 10 of 16 below. Continue to 11 of 16 below. Continue to 12 of 16 below. They perk up as they grow older, making them look extra tall and important. Continue to 13 of 16 below. Beautiful all black and all white German Shepherds are out there, too. Continue to 14 of 16 below. Continue to 15 of 16 below. This breed is inherently athletic and courageous—nothing can stop them, not even water. Continue to 16 of 16 below. What is a Miniature German Shepherd? Purebred or crossbreed? The other side claims it is a mixed breed. The truth is that the Miniature German Shepherd is indeed a crossbreed. Small-sized standard German Shepherds do not exist unless the dog happens to have dwarfism. To get a Miniature German Shepherd, the standard is bred with another purebred, most commonly the Collie or Poodle. Instead, take a look at the parents to get an idea of how a puppy could possibly turn out as an adult. The Intelligent Border Collie This breed is world-renowned for its smarts. A lovable family doggo with talents for competition and herding, it contributes desirable personality traits to make a German Shepherd Collie mix. It can weigh up to 44 lbs 20 kg with a height of 22 in 56 cm and has a lifespan of up to 17 years. Some health concerns to be aware of with this breed include bloating and an eye anomaly that causes partial or complete blindness. This dog makes an elegant and friendly family dog that is a fast learner. The Poodle excels as a competition dog and is also widely used for therapy. The Poodle can weigh up to 70 lbs 31 kg with a height of 22 in 56 cm and has a lifespan of up to 15 years. There are health concerns associated with this breed, such as epilepsy, canine hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy. The Loyal German Shepherd The German Shepherd is sharp as a tack and completely dedicated and in love with its family. Ranking as the 3rd most intelligent, you get a well-rounded dog that is not only stunningly beautiful with its thick coat, confident stance, and communicative features, but an excellent guard dog that will protect at any cost. It can weigh up to 88 lbs 40 kg with a height of 25 in 65 cm and has a lifespan of up to 13 years. For further insight into German Shepherd growth, take a look at this guide and chart. With the Shepherd breed, hip dysplasia is a common health issue that is seen in the Miniature variety as well. Shepherds are also known to suffer from a neural disease called degenerative myelopathy and endocrine pancreatic insufficiency, which is a digestive disorder. This is a rare inherited genetic disorder that results from breeding two purebred German Shepherds. A German Shepherd with dwarfism, though significantly smaller weighing up to 30 lbs , will exhibit the token characteristics and mannerisms the breed is known for. It will also look like a typical Shepherd, except with shortened limbs. This is one way to procure a smaller than normal Shepherd, but there will be extra health issues to deal with, such as allergies and thyroid issues. It is common for these dogs to bald as they age as well. Here is a cute video that gives a glimpse into what life is like for a German Shepherd with dwarfism. The Mini German Shepherd is undoubtedly smaller than the standard one, weighing up to 50 lbs 22 kg. Any combination of these colors can be inherited by the Mini. This Dog is a Devoted Protector maria. They make excellent guard dogs but are good-natured. If you have kids, the Mini will take full responsibility for their safety, with a healthy dose of playtime and cuddling thrown in. Hardworking and intelligent, they make phenomenal search, rescue and therapy dogs. Training is a breeze, as this breed is a fast learner remember, all of three possible parents rank TOP-3 in the smartest dog breeds list? The earlier you introduce behavior commands and socialization methods such as walks in the park where other dogs can be encountered safely, the sooner you will see the intelligence blossom. Hip dysplasia is the most common inherited disease from the German Shepherd parent. This painful condition occurs when an abnormality in the hip socket causes the dog to become crippled or experience agonizing arthritis. To keep your small German Shepherd in good health, plenty of exercises is key. This breed is also prone to canine hypothyroidism, which can cause obesity. No one can guarantee how a mix will turn out. The breeder should be able to present health clearances for hip dysplasia and other common diseases. Check out these Miniature German Shepherd breeders for available litters. Our puppies are raised in a loving and nurturing environment, and we work closely with new owners to ensure that they have all the information and support they need to provide the best possible care for their new pet. We are located in Culpeper, the foot hills of Virginia on 10 acres. Family owned and operated, with 28 plus years of experience. My first German Shepherd "Ashlee" instilled the love and respect in my heart. Contact me at Littlecreekgermanshepherds gmail. All Puppies are AKC registered, and come with their first vet check, first vaccine, utd worming, microchip, puppy pack and puppy contract. We are now accepting reservations for our up coming litter. Please contact me via email with any questions. Puppies should be suitable for active families, dog sports, service and rescue. Puppies will be temperament tested for best placement. Some puppies can be co-owned to the right person. All of my breeding females have yearly check ups and are under the care of a reproductive veterinarian as needed. Our breeding males receives a yearly check up to make sure they are healthy and up to date on vaccines. All of my breeding females receive yearly check ups and are under the care of a reproductive veterinarian. Health screenings are on the top of our list to make sure all are of breeding quality. Carrier only means if bred to a clear male no possibility german shepherd puppies Fall litter planned. Reserve now! Puppies eating big babies food…. .Reserve by wait list, email me today! Check your spam folder for replies……. Powered by GoDaddy Website Builder. These pups are incredibly intelligent and capable canines who are ready to work. And German Shepherd puppies are too cute! Remember, you can get any kind of dog, including a GSD, from shelters and rescues, so always adopt! They tend to be one-family pets, meaning they can be suspicious of strangers. Although absolutely gorgeous, Shepherds are shedders to the max. Prepare for a snow globe of hair to poof off your pup any time you give them a big snuggle, which will be more often than not. When you first get your puppy, playing may consist of nipping due to their herding background. When your GSD is fully grown, they may love to wrestle around and forget how big they are. These pups are always up for snuggling with others, including kids and other pets. Softies Who Are Also Busy Bodies If you want a German Shepherd puppy in your life, you have to really want your dog to be a part of every little bit of your daily routine. Morning showers? Your pup will want to sit right outside to make sure you rinse off the soap. Your bed? Highly intelligent and curious, Shepherds want to know what is going on all of the time. German Shepherds will attach at the hip and make the right person the happiest dog parent on the planet. German Shepherd puppy in grass close-up of German Shepherd puppy German Shepherd puppy in profile German Shepherd puppy on rock German Shepherd puppy lying down on lawn German Shepherd puppy looking at camera German Shepherd puppy on snow German Shepherd puppy in yard Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. Would you adopt a German Shepherd Puppy? Do you have experience with these adorable pups? Let us know in the comments below! Baby German Shepherds growing up! German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular dog breeds out there at the moment, with many devoted fans. They can be large and imposing as adults. But, like every breed, they have a cute puppy phase that many fall in love with. However, since most puppies are bought at weeks old, most of us miss out on this magical period of their lives. So what happens during those first important weeks? A typical German Shepherd litter consists of around puppies. The mean average, according to a study performed in , is 6. When they are first born, they will still have an umbilical cord attached and may be covered in amniotic fluid. Their mother should chew off the umbilical cord and spend the first few hours cleaning their pups. Then mom will focus on keeping her newborn pups warm while allowing them to nurse. At this stage, German Shepherd puppies will just sleep and avoid expending energy. They will frequently nurse from their mother. Newborn German Shepherds When baby German Shepherd puppies are first born, they are completely dependent on their mother. Their ears and eyes will be closed and they will be unable to regulate their own body temperature efficiently. A coat should be present, and the color will depend on the genes they have inherited from their parents. Black with tan markings is the most common for this breed. Additionally, they will be relatively immobile. They will be unable to properly support their own weight. Therefore, they will commonly crawl on their stomach to move about. They will also be unable to urinate or defecate on their own. Stimulation from their mother will be required to help them go to the toilet. One Week Old Baby German Shepherd In the first week, the puppies should bulk up significantly and double their birth weight. However, there will not be much change in their behavior. They will still primarily be focused on nursing and sleeping. To help themselves stay warm, the puppies will normally cuddle close to each other, except for when they are in a hot environment. At this stage, they will still be blind and deaf. While they are still unable to see very well, this is a big step. Eyes should open for the first time at around days of age. They will appear blue in color, but this will change into brown as they develop. They may become a little more inquisitive about their surroundings with their new-found eyesight, and may begin to crawl around a little more. We can expect to see them make some big steps at this stage. Firstly, at around days old, their ears should begin to open for the first time. They should now be able to both see and hear, though not too clearly. Their senses will continue to develop over the coming weeks. They will begin to be able to stand and support their own weight. Walking may still be tough, though! They will likely be pretty wobbly. You can also expect to see their baby teeth come in at around this time. While they still get the majority of their nutrition from their mother, they will begin to show interest in solid food. They will begin to become more independent at this age, being able to urinate and defecate on their own. Beginning Of Socialization With their sight and hearing, they are likely to show a little bit of adventure and courage for the first time, exploring their surroundings as much as their unsteady gait will allow them. This milestone also marks the beginning of the socialization period, a critical phase of their development. Things learned now can shape their personality and behavior for the rest of their lives. They may engage the other puppies in clumsy play and show body language such as tail wagging for the first time. They will form relationships with their den mates, their mother, and humans. This stage is critical in getting the puppies used to humans. This can be achieved by gently exposing the puppies to human presence and contact so that they can see that they are no threat. While their brains are still very much in development, they are still able to learn some simple concepts at this stage. Crate and potty training can begin at this age. They should now be able to walk pretty well. This mobility will allow them to further play with their family and be even more curious about their surroundings. On top of this, their baby teeth should now be fully formed and the weaning process should be fully underway. They should be offered soft but solid food. They may begin to show signs of more complex social behaviors towards their other den mates, and they should learn important skills like bite inhibition. The socialization process should continue, with the puppies gently being exposed to new people, sights, and sounds. The German Shepherd babies will also be further weaned off the mother at this time, slowly moving onto a fully solid diet. Six Week Old Baby German Shepherd At this age, you will begin to see the puppies become even more independent of their mother. Six week old puppies are gaining social skills rapidly, and love to play with people and each other. Seven Week Old Baby German Shepherd When we move into the seventh week of their life, a new significant phase of development starts to begin: the fear period. While this sounds disconcerting, it merely means that this is the time that many puppies begin to show fear towards new things, rather than curiosity. Things that the puppy may find scary or uncertain during this time can make for big changes in their personality throughout life. For example, if a puppy has a bad experience with a human at this stage, it may lead them to becoming fearful and distrustful towards people for the rest of their life. This is why gently exposing the puppies to humans and common sights and sounds beforehand is important. By preemptively socializing the puppies with humans, we can help this period run smoother. The puppies will have reached weights of around pounds and should be around inches tall. Their ears will lie flat but should begin to become erect and upright over the coming weeks. They will be fully independent of their mother at this age. They should be completely weaned, with some basic training and socialization. From here, new owners are expected to continue to train and socialize them, as they are still within a critical period of development. New owners will also need to continue to ensure the German Shepherd puppy is fed a good, nutritionally balanced diet. For more information, you can check out our full puppy development guide here. And make sure you also take a look at this guide to bathing a puppy! They still have their cute side of course, but they are often a whole lot more work than most people expect. And when it comes to German Shepherd puppies, while not anymore difficult than any other breed, there are a few specific things that may help both you and your furry pup through the struggle of puppy-hood. German Shepherds, in general, tend to be very loyal, loving, and protective. But they do have other characteristics that are good to be aware of before getting a puppy, in order to ensure that they are the right match for you. German Shepherd puppies can be a little shy and anxious sometimes, which, if not treated properly could develop into fear-based aggression. Socialization becomes very important for these puppies in order to keep the shyness and aggression in check. German Shepherd puppies are very energetic and intelligent. So keep in mind that you may need to get creative with the doggie activities! If you like your privacy, you may want to reconsider getting a German Shepherd because these puppies will follow you everywhere. Training in this area becomes extremely critical if you want to prevent their biting from transitioning into a much more dangerous game. German Shepherd puppies are incredibly intense when it comes to playtime, so get ready for some heavy-duty wrestling. You will need to supervise any interactions with other dogs to ensure that nobody gets hurt. A German Shepherd puppy just might be the right one for you. Finding Your Puppy The first step in caring for your puppy is finding your puppy, and the best place to go for that is a reputable breeder. While you can find plenty of breeders on the internet, your best bet would be to ask for referrals from other German Shepherd owners that you know. This way you can ensure that you find a German Shepherd puppy that has been well cared for from birth, giving you a great head start. And while there will be many times for playing and cuddling during the first few days and onward, even the very first moments you spend with your puppy are extremely critical for training. Potty Training Little puppies have little bladders, which means they will have to relieve themselves every two hours or so until they are about six months old. Take your puppy to your designated potty area frequently and praise your pup if he goes in the right place. Using a specific spot, rather than just the entire backyard, will help immensely during potty training. Sticking to a schedule can help minimize accidents. A good starting point is to take your puppy outside 20 minutes after eating, as this is generally when he will need to relieve himself. You will also need to wake up two or three times in the night to check on your pup. And keep an eye on him throughout the day. If he is whimpering uneasily, he probably needs to potty. Crate Training Crate training your German Shepherd puppy will become a huge help while you are teaching him the house rules. It also helps give them a safe place they can call their own. Keep your crate somewhere in the home where there are people around to supervise, but not too public or chaotic of a place that he will feel scared or threatened. Also, make sure the crate is not so small that they feel trapped and uncomfortable. Your pup should be able to comfortably stretch and lie down if they want to. Even when your dog is in the crate, make sure he is on his best behavior. If your pup exhibits bad behavior in the crate and you respond by taking him out, he may develop bad habits. Once your puppy calms down or shows good behavior, reward him by letting him out and giving him praise. Socialization Especially as German Shepherd puppies can lean more towards the aggressive side, socialization is critical if you want to keep this aggression in check. Letting your puppy meet new people and new dogs during the first couple months of life can really make a difference in his social skills and overall behavior. Let your puppy spend quality time with the family and everyone who may frequent your home such as neighbors, relatives, and babysitters. General Training The first thing your puppy should learn during training is that you are in charge. Otherwise, your puppy will take on that role himself and you could lose control completely. German Shepherd puppies respond well to positive training techniques, so keep those treats handy! Feeding Although your German Shepherd puppy may be small, his diet should not be. Growing from a puppy to an adult dog is hard work, and he will need a strong, healthy diet in order to do it. Until 6 months of age your puppy will need to eat 3 to 4 times a day. The best way to ensure that he is getting the right amount of grub is to check his ribs. You should be able to feel them through his skin, but not see them. The most common type of puppy food is your everyday kibble, but actually, raw dog foods are the best way to go, even for the littlest of pups. About Emilyn Gil Hello! My name is Emilyn and I am currently studying English at Utah Valley University and working as a copywriter, researcher and mother. Although I have had just one dog throughout my life, my sweet Golden Retriever and Cocker Spaniel mix, Pup, has given me many fond memories that I hold dear. In addition, have also owned and cared for cats, fish, hamsters, rats, parakeets, chickens, goats, rabbits, frogs, and lizards. Every one of these adorable pets has given me a love for all kinds of animal friends, which is something that I hope to share here at TruDog. Life Span Did You Know? A Miniature German Shepherd is a cross between a German Shepherd and a smaller dog breed that is meant to result in a smaller version of a German Shepherd. Although these Mini Shepherds can inherit any combination of traits from their parent breeds, they tend to be energetic, intelligent dogs that bond closely with their families and are affectionate with them. Miniature German Shepherds make great family dogs. They may be hardworking while on a job, but they have a playful spirit while relaxing with their family. They also tend to get along well with children and other dogs in the family. Although they tend to do well with smaller pets they have been raised with, they do have a high prey drive. Mini German Shepherds are also protective and alert. They will bark to alert you and will be naturally suspicious of strangers. Proper socialization and training early on can help make sure barking does not become a nuisance and will help them open up to strangers once introduced. Miniature German Shepherds are highly adaptable dogs. They tend to be a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. But, they can adapt just as well to apartments as long as they get the exercise, mental stimulation, and attention they need. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to heat. Because they bond so closely with their families and want to be near them, they do not do well with long periods of alone time. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes be healthier than purebred dogs because of genetic diversity. However, this is not a guarantee. They could inherit no conditions common to the parent breeds, but they could also inherit some or all of them. So, make sure you are asking them about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. For the Miniature German Shepherd, potential health conditions to be aware of include progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia. Because of their body shape, they are also at risk for bloat. Although Miniature German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please, they can be difficult for first-time dog owners to handle on their own. Their high energy, working dog instincts, thirst for learning, and need for structured training can be overwhelming for first-time dog owners. Because of this, puppy training classes are recommended if you are not an experienced dog owner. They help reinforce training, strengthen the bond you have with your dog, and also offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. In general, a Miniature German Shepherd will have a coat that sheds moderately year-round and heavier seasonally. Brushing a few times a week, daily brushing during seasonal shedding, and the occasional bath is usually sufficient for this coat type. If a Miniature German Shepherd has a Mini Poodle parent, there is a chance they could inherit the low-shedding Poodle coat. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Although good dental care for dogs is essential, it is often overlooked. This is one of the reasons why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in older dogs. You can help protect your pup from painful dental diseases later in life by brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day and keeping up with regular vet visits. Although a Miniature German Shepherd may be smaller than a German Shepherd, they are still a high-energy dog with working dog instincts. In addition to having a job to do, these dogs also need daily walks plus playtime and time to run to be happy and healthy. If they like it, swimming can be a good low-impact activity while they are still growing. Once puppies finish growing , you can try higher-impact activities like hiking, running, training for dog sports, and more to see what they like. A fully-grown Miniature German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs about 50 pounds. There can be some variation depending on the other parent breed in the cross, but meeting the mother dog in-person can give you a better idea of what size to expect in a Mini GSD. A Miniature German Shepherd generally lives for years. If the other parent crossed with a German Shepherd is a Standard Poodle, the result is a Shepadoodle. Featured Miniature German Shepherd Article.

Pugs will eat as much as you give them. Measure your pug's food and feed him small meals at scheduled times. As he ages, decrease how often he eats. He should eat four times a day. High-quality dry foods and wet foods are nutrient-dense, so your little guy will not need as much of it as he would lower-quality foods. You can find high-quality puppy foods in pet stores and at your veterinary clinic. Avoid semi-moist puppy foods because they contain high amounts of sugar. Adjust the amount so he is still getting his daily requirement. He may want more; but as long as he is at a healthy weight, don't start giving him extra food. Pugs gain weight easily. Obesity in pugs can lead to muscle and joint problems, diabetes and heart disease. It is doubtful that you will need to increase the amount of food per day even though your pug is growing. Your vet may suggest that you decrease the amount of food if your pug is starting to gain weight. Some owners prefer to continue the twice-a-day feedings because pugs have a smaller stomach than larger dogs. It's hard for them to digest a large amount in one feeding. It is now time to consider adult food. Introduce the new food slowly so he doesn't have difficulty digesting it. If you are concerned that your pug is not getting enough to eat, look at his shape. He should be broad at the shoulders and narrower beyond the shoulders, with a slight widening in the rump area. If his shape is square, he is getting too much food. More Articles. You may find yourself on the dog food isle trying to make sense of all the ingredients, types of foods and categories. And all you want to know is… How often and what should I feed my Pug? Every dog is different, every type of food has its specific quantities and it even varies between brands. Start simple and figure out all the details and methods. I have collected information about the different types, brands pros and cons of dog feeding to try and give an unbiased as much as I can look, so you can make a better-informed choice which will be right for you and your Pug. Remember, people care deeply about their dogs and will often get very emotional about the health and feeding they chose. Having been the owner of a pet store, I have learned that although I have my personal preferences and very good reasons for them, others may have different choices and they believe they are the right ones for them. There are a lot of issues to consider. How Many times a day should I feed My Pug? A mature Pug can easily live a healthy life with one meal which provides all his nutritional needs. In most cases, it is more convenient for both us and the pug to split this to two meals. If your Pug had a full meal in the morning, be sure he will nag you like crazy in the afternoon. Puppies have smaller stomachs and need, relative to their size, a larger quantity of food so it is better to break it up to three or even four meals a day. If you are around your Pug all day and prefer to give 4 meals a day to a mature dog, there is no harm in it, as long as the overall daily quantity stays the same. Free Buffet or Set meals? Pugs are notorious for becoming overweight and need to be limited to a set amount. If your Pug is not typical in that sense, you are welcome to put the full daily portion in the bowl and see how long it lasts. One more reason for set meals is monitoring. You want to know how much you Pug eats. If you want your Pug to lose weight, you need to know how much he is eating in order to cut down. On the flip side, if your Pug is not eating the usual amounts it may be an indication of a medical condition. What food do Pugs Eat? Pugs love food. They love treats, dry food, wet food, table scraps, raw meat, cooked meat, spicy meat and meat gone bad. In rural areas and farms, they may have also got more meaty scraps. Our Pugs who grew up with Emperors and Royalty were probably treated to high quality scraps. Today, dry bagged kibble or canned wet food are the standard for most homes, although there is a growing number of people and companies promoting more natural diets of either raw or cooked food for dogs. Every type of food claims to be the healthiest, more appropriate, tailored and nutritional. Kibble Kibble is the most common dog food available and has become the staple for the average dog. Pros of Kibble The makers of dry food claim it has the most balanced and scientifically based formulas to provide the best nutrition for a dog. They also tailor these formulas to dogs of different size, breed, age or other needs. Even the most discerning dog owners should be able a composition to satisfy them. The ingredient list is unclear and misleading. There are numerous food recalls yearly. There are websites dedicated just to keep up with the recalls. Teeth are going to need cleaning. Wet canned food Aside from the meatier texture and the higher water content, there is little difference between kibble and the canned, wet counterpart. The ingredients can be similar and so are the health benefits. Some dog owners report that wet food makes for softer stools when fed exclusively. Many dog owners will give a combination of wet and dry food. Home cooked As with human food there is a growing number of people fed up Pun intended with commercial and over engineered food. Raw food Also called the BARF Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods , the idea behind it is that the dogs digestive system has not evolved as their behavior, and much like wild dogs or wolves, they should eat the equivalent to small animals they would pray on in nature. Since dogs are also scavengers this diet will include some vegetables, berries etc. The pros As with the home-cooked diet, you have total control of ingredients and quality No preservatives, additives, fillers etc. You need to learn how to make, takes time Ingredients like bones and internal organs may not be available in your area. Can be pricy. Even More expensive if buying ready and frozen. Takes freezer space Raw Disclaimer I am a little bias towards raw food. I used to own a pet food store specializing in raw food for cats and dogs and I have been feeding my own Pugs raw food for over twelve years. Obviously, I am very happy with the raw diet and its outcomes as switching to dry food would have been easy and cheap. I believe it is the better choice for myself and my dogs. I believe I have presented the facts fairly objectively as far as the other feeding options go. There is no standard or way to measure what natural is and what the added value of it is other then the origin of it. Natural color could come from some secretion of an insect. Special Needs Puppies These little ones need the most nutritious and high-quality food you can find. If you want to find an economic way to feed your dog, please do it later in his life. Allergies Pugs are relatively sensitive to allergies. In some cases, this is due to an external source such as home detergents, but more often than not it has to do with their diet. There are a few brands that you can try with low, or no grain. If you are feeding your pug home cooked food or a raw diet, taking the carbs and grain out would be easy. Our Pugs were and are on a raw diet from day one and we never had any issues with allergies, except for one time. We started noticing that Preston had pinkish skin around his paws and around the nose fold. Since we owned a pet food store specializing in raw food, at the time convenient, I know we tried different types of meats, but nothing helped. It took us some time to realize the cause. We had our baby daughter at the time, and since she was very close and intimate with Preston, and he was eating raw, we made sure to wipe his mouth and feet with baby wipes after every meal. The baby wipes were the culprits. We switched them both to hypo-allergenic wipes and the skin went back to normal… Hip Dysplasia Pugs are ranked as one of the breeds with the highest chances of suffering from Hip Dysplasia. This can lead to trouble in walking and running and arthritis may follow as well. If your Pug is suffering from Hip Dysplasia to any extent you may want to either supplement their diet with Chondroitin and Glucosamine or to choose a brand that is made for joint support. Vets and nutrition. Having said that, if I needed nutritional advice, I would go to a nutritionist and not to my Doctor. The nutrition training vets get in many schools is provided by agents of the commercial food companies who are bias at best. Skipping meals Dogs will sometimes skip a meal. It is natural for them as food is not something that was always available on daily base. It is not typical for Pugs but it may happen. If it happens it will probably be a one meal deal. If your Pug misses a few meals in a row you may want to consult a vet. Treats and snacks I try and think of treats and snacks the same way I think of candy for my daughters. If the amount of treats your Pug is rivals the actual food, in quantity, you should reconsider or at least re calculate it. If you are using kibble both at meals and as treats for training, and your stubborn Pug ends up consuming a lot of treats, just take it off the next meal. The same goes for snacks. They should be a part of the total daily feeding and not extra. How long can a pug go without eating? An adult Pug can probably survive many days without food, but no Pug would stand for it. Unless your Pug has a medical condition, he will surely let you know he is hungry. Do make sure that your Pug is not deprived of fresh drinking water at all times. More so if the weather is hot and if he is on a dry food diet and has no other source of hydration. What if my Pug is overweight? Pugs love to eat and have a tendency to eat too much. A chubby Pug is very cute, but at some point, it becomes a health issue. Overweight Pugs may suffer from a wide range of conditions and or aggravate others. Conclusion Food is an important part of your Pugs life and will directly affect his health and well-being. Do make sure you know what your Pug is eating, the quality as well as the quantities. Actually, yes. This is an actual condition called Eye Displacement or Proptosis. It is not a common occurrence but with extreme trauma or circumstances it may happen. In most cases the condition is treatable. More on the condition here… Are Pugs Loving? Pugs have been bred as companion dogs for over two thousand years. Being with people is almost in their DNA. So yes, Pugs love to cuddle, snuggle and just be in contact or as close as they can to their human friends. More on Pug Love here. If your Pug is ravenously hungry , despite offering good amounts, this is covered separately in its own article. If your Pug overeats and you feel that you are part of the problem i. You may be filling the bowl to the brim or continuously giving out snacks and treats. The result, most likely, will be a Pug that becomes overweight, an issue that can lead to all sorts of health problems. What to do: 1. Use the right sized bowl. Be sure to obtain a stainless-steel bowl since plastic bowls can lead to issues including allergic reaction and gradual discoloration of the nose. If you are using a portion pacer to help your Pug slow down his eating pace , allow for a bowl large enough for that to fit inside. So, write down the times and the serving sizes for each meal and each snack and then do not deviate from that. Aim for 3 meals per day and 3 to 4 snacks dry in between those meals to keep your Pug satiated. The only thing that can be given spontaneously is training treats see ahead, point 4. If your Pug begs for food, do not give in. If your Pug bothers you for food outside of the 3 meals and 3 to 4 snacks, draw attention to something else. You can keep a few toys hidden out of view and offer those, take your Pug outside for a game of fetch, head out for a walk, etc. Take care with reward treats. Reward treats are much different than snacks. However, training treats are designed to be very small since they are given out repeatedly during training. The idea is to offer a little burst of flavor that does not affect the appetite, yet sends a strong signal for a job well done command training, housebreaking, heeling, etc. So, these are important, and you should be giving them to your Pug to mark good behavior. But, be sure to offer the right type small, healthy, no additives. For adult Pugs, and especially those that tend to carry a few extra pounds, Fruitables Skinny Minis Soft Dog Treats are fantastic; these are low-calorie yet serve their purpose by being super-delicious. Note that when a Pug flat-out refuses to eat , this is a topic covered separately. Eating, but not as much as expected, is covered here. With puppies, this eating problem can develop due to there being rapid growth, but a Pug puppy can have trouble ingesting enough food to keep up with that. Only so much food can fit in the tummy at one time. With adults, this may be a matter of being a picky eater, which is covered up ahead, yet there are other aspects to explore. This is not to say the food itself is offering the right amount of protein and other nutrients. If you still believe your Pug is not eating as much as needed: 1. Know how much your Pug weighs. Never guess how much your Pug weighs, because serving size for manufactured dog food is based on weight. If you have an accurate scale at home, you can do weigh your Pug by weighing yourself first, then weighing yourself while holding your dog. If you have a very young pup, a kitchen scale may be sufficient. If you do not trust your scale to this degree or do not have an accurate scale, all it takes is a quick trip to the vet to find out. Most vets will not charge a steep fee for a fast weight check. Once you know what your puppy or dog weighs, read the labeling on the kibble. These are not arbitrary numbers; most are pretty spot-on. Do note, however, that if a puppy or dog is not as active as he should be, calorie requirements may not be as high. Other things such as health status or even how much a dog paces can affect requirements. Note that for most brands, serving recommendations on the kibble assume that you are also offering 3 to 4 small snacks per day. Those are the daily amounts, spread out over 2 to 3 meals. In some cases, there will be a need for prescribed medications to stimulate the appetite. If the brand you are giving is causing slight upset stomach issues not enough to cause vomiting, but enough to throw off the appetite you may not have considered this, but it can, of course, cause a dog to be reluctant to chow down. These are different than snacks. These are meant to reward good behavior and are designed to be small as to not interfere with appetite. Regular exercise helps in a number of ways, including stimulating the appetite. Aim for two walks per day 20 to 30 minutes at a pace that is brisk for your Pug and one minute cardio session such as fetch. This can become a trap for many owners. You hand-feed your dog just a few times and he expects it all the time. In fact, he may demand it and refuse to eat unless you do this. Reassess the bowl to make sure it is one that your Pug is comfortable with. Unfortunately, while a raised bowl is a good choice for many breeds, it is NOT with this breed due to the risk of bloat. However, an over-sized bowl or one that is too deep that causes a dog to have trouble reaching his food or puts the neck into an uncomfortable position may be contributing to the problem. Assess the eating area. Dogs can feel quite vulnerable when eating. Remain firm and do not give in. Once you have followed points 1 and 2, place the kibble in the bowl and walk away. At first, your Pug will resist and will be assuming that you will concede. You will need to wait him out. It is canine instinct to survive and very few dogs will refuse to eat when it comes down to it. If your Pug refuses to budge, each hour, remove the bowl for 20 minutes and then place it back down. If this lasts for 3 hours and your Pug outright refuses his food because you are not hand-feeding him, this points to a more significant problem. There may be a condition that is causing discomfort when the Pug positions himself to eat from the bowl, which may include the back, hips, or neck. Dogs typically like the taste of wet canned food over dry food; however, dry kibble is better since wet food does not help keep teeth strong and can cause runny stools. As a side note, if you are feeding wet and wish to remain doing so, giving daily dental chews and performing at-home dental care will be more important than ever. Having trouble with dry food can be classified into two categories: 1. If your Pug merely prefers the taste of wet over dry, but you want to switch to a dry diet, do this in gradual increments. Fish oil is incredibly beneficial, particularly for the Pug breed; it keeps skin and coat healthy, can help with issues related to allergies dry skin, itchy skin, skin sores , is an excellent supplement to help prevent arthritis, and can reduce pain and inflammation in dogs that already have arthritis or joint conditions such as hip dysplasia or patella luxation. This comes in a handy pump, so it is super-easy to add a dash to a meal about 1 pump, exact serving size is listed on this and is based on weight. If your Pug literally has trouble chewing dry food, this points to an issue with the teeth. Any sort of infection or decay can make it very difficult for a dog to grind down on hard dry food. Dental issues are not something to be ignored; infection can spread up into the sinuses and throughout the body sepsis , which can be fatal. Therefore, signs of discomfort when eating hard dry kibble warrants a veterinary examination. Pugs, being relatively small compared to humans, will eat less food than we do. However, if a Pug is truly gulping down his food at a fast rate, this is a problem that should be addressed. Eating fast or drinking fast are top triggers of bloat gastric dilatation volvulus which is exceedingly dangerous and can be fatal. This is particularly common if two pets are eating too close to each other, but can also happen if the dishes are in a spot with foot traffic, people sitting or talking too close, etc. So, provide your Pug with a stress-free zone. Encourage slower eating. These are designed to displace the kibble via a safe protrusion. These are orbs that are placed in a bowl that forces a dog to eat around it. It works for some dogs, but others can quickly become pros at nosing it out of the way. Read further about Pugs that are picky eaters. In most cases, this can happen if the kitchen is a very noisy room, if there are other pets in the home and the Pug feels as if they need to compete for food, or if people sit or walk too close to where the food dish is. How to help: 1. Offer a peaceful eating area. This should be a spot with no one walking by, without loud noises, and without people talking to your dog or trying to pat or play with him while he eats. When your dog takes any food out of the dish, immediately take the food and place it back into the dish. Get ready for your dog to test you; he may try to move it multiple times before finally giving in to your request. While this can seem like a game, it is not, so try to not give the impression that you are amused by this. Stay consistent. For this, no food, not even snacks, should be given outside of the designated eating area. Do a thorough sweep of the interior and exterior of the home. Pick up anything and everything that you possibly can, that can be moved to a new spot, up higher. For things you cannot move — Tie up loose electrical cords and keep them out of sight. Run cords through purchased spiral cable wrap, cord concealers, or even PVC pipe to keep them inaccessible. But, keep in mind that these sorts of sprays are based on bitter agents like apple or lemon and for some reason some dogs don't mind the taste. This is sized for small pups, has textured nubs to 'scratch' the itch of erupting teeth, and is flavored to keep a pup focused on it. They first mouth something and then decide if it's worth their time. Some of these things may be inadvertently swallowed and other things, like pebbles, may be intentionally swallowed due in part to their salty taste. Know that you are in charge. Have your Pug on a leash and harness not leash and collar. With your Pug wearing a harness, you can have full control over your Pug, keep the leash taut and quickly move him away before he eats anything by moderately tugging on the leash, without fear of injuring him because the harness prevents neck injury. If you are looking for a harness, the Puppia RiteFit Harness is fantastic. It's sturdy, breathable, adjustable, and easy to put on and take off. If this happens a lot, every 3 to 4 times offer a training treat if you do it each time, your Pug may learn to fake going for something just to get the yummy treat. Some dogs can be very protective of their food. They may growl at, snap at, or even lunge at people or other animals that are nearby. Assess if there is an aggression issue aside from this food issue. This may include your dog growling when you try to groom him, snapping at you when you take away a toy, etc. If so, training will be in order to instill proper hierarchy. Assess if you are feeding your dog enough. If your Pug is right on the borderline of receiving enough food, he may very well be maintaining his weight but is extremely hungry at each meal time. This alone can cause a dog to feel over-protective of his food. Offer a stress-free eating environment. Have the dish set up in a quiet corner where there is no foot traffic, people chatting away or watching TV close by, pets running around, etc. Dogs deserve to eat in peace without being bothered. Desensitize your Pug to having you near the bowl. This can be done by tossing special treats into the bowl as your dog eats. In this way, you are teaching him that you coming nearby during mealtime can be a good thing. However, every now and then, repeat this so that lessons are not forgotten. However, this oatmeal and aloe combo is also great for fixing minor to moderate itchy skin. The Tea Tree and Aloe Vera formula is also for itching, and is geared more towards hot spots or skin that is extremely sensitive. You may also like: Pugs with Itchy Skin - The top leading causes of the frustrating problem, along with exact steps to resolve things. Best Shampoos for Pugs - What you use during the bath will have lasting effects on skin and coat health, how long your Pug smells good, and more. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. And the total number of dogs all breeds in the reports are .So while this is something that should be monitored and many more studies need to be done, it's important to keep in mind that this is a very small number compared to the estimated 77 million dogs in the U. The latest update is that there are no recalls at this moment that are linked to this issue. The Best Food for Pug Puppies and Adults What to Avoid: Quite a few ingredients that are found in a lot of dog food brands can be severely detrimental to a Pug and cause everything from allergic reactions itching, rashes, wheezing, running eyes, etc. Corn which includes as corn germ meal, corn gluten meal, and corn bran High grain counts which includes high levels of wheat, oats, barley, and other cereal grains which may be listed as hominy feed. Rice can be an exception; with rice, the hull, bran layer, and cereal germ is removed and for this reason, rice is often tolerated very well. By-products which are animal body parts deemed unfit for human consumption and can include brain, lungs, undeveloped eggs, and more. Generic meats or oils which can legally include roadkill and deceased zoo animals. What to Look For: All-natural preservatives; there are vitamin blends that work very well to preserve dog food and this often will show as mixed tocopherols. Natural flavoring Protein will come from wholesome animal sources including chicken, turkey, lamb, fish, bison, and beef. There will be no by-products or generic meats. If you offer grains, gluten-free grains are usually best. No other fillers or controversial additives. Helpful extras such as glucosamine and chondroitin beneficial for joint health , omega-3, 6 for healthy skin and coat , probiotics for immune health and antioxidants to help prevent disease. Some of the best food for Pugs includes: Best Formulas with Grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health for Small Breeds. The base of this kibble is turkey and oatmeal which is easy on the stomach for most Pugs. There is also salmon, brown rice, peas, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and apples. There are excellent levels of a wide-range of vitamins and minerals, good levels of omega-3 and 6, and glucosamine and chondroitin which are extremely beneficial joint supplements for Pugs. This is made in the US. Note that this offers puppy and adult formulas as well as 'healthy weight' for Pugs that need to lose a few pounds, and a senior formula. This line of Halo offers holistic recipes. This one has non-GMO produce and meats that are antibiotic-free and hormone-free with factory-free farming. The grains in this are oatmeal and pearled barley which are generally known for being well-tolerated. This is sized ideally for Pugs, and has no artificial additives, by-products, or corn. And, this is made in the US. Best Grain-free Formulas: 1. This is one of the best grain-free kibbles for Pugs; it's really top-of-the-line. The base is chicken and turkey. There is a wide selection of vegetables and fruits compared to some other brands spinach, broccoli, carrots, kale, sweet potatoes, apples and blueberries. Levels of omega fatty acids are ideal, via both salmon oil and flaxseed. And, there are good levels of glucosamine and chondroitin which as mentioned earlier are important for joint health. There is no corn, wheat, by-products, fillers, or artificial coloring, flavoring, or preservatives and this is made in the USA. This is another excellent choice that is formulated for dogs under 70 lbs. There are several great bases including lamb, beef, chicken, and salmon. There are zero chemical preservatives and no artificial ingredients. Added extras are healthy antioxidants, omega-3 and 6, and the very important glucosamine and chondroitin which are very beneficial for breeds like the Pug that are prone to joint and hip issues. This is a holistic kibble that offers non-GMO veggies and fruits and sustainably-sourced wild-caught fish and is ideal for Pugs that are carrying a few extra pounds. The base is salmon and whitefish, so most dogs love the taste. There are no chemical preservatives, corn, by-products, coloring, or fillers. Switching a Pug onto a Different Food If you just got a new Pug puppy, you may want to feed your little guy or gal something different than what was being given. And in many instances, this will be a good idea. The sooner you start your pup on a superior food that you've chosen yourself, the better. If you have an adult Pug, you may decide to switch foods due to an intolerance to certain ingredients some dogs do best with certain proteins like beef as opposed to chicken or vice-versa or maybe you realized that your Pug was not on the brand and you want to make a change. No matter the circumstances, if at all possible, it is best to change to a new brand of dog food in a gradual way because a quick switch can disrupt the digestive system. The goal should be a incremental change over the course of 3 weeks. Home Cooking Owners decide to home cook for their dogs for a variety of reasons: It can be less expensive; though, this depends quite a bit on what you buy and if you can purchase ingredients in bulk. It may be done to fully avoid preservatives, additives, by-products and other subpar ingredients; you know exactly what you are putting in. This can help avoid an intolerance or allergic reaction to an unknown ingredient. It is very flexible and adjustable. It can be a good choice for picky eaters. Other sources include beans such as lima beans, kidney beans, and butter beans must be cooked. Vegetables - This includes peas, carrots, spinach, zucchini, green beans, bell peppers, and butternut squash. You can also offer asparagus, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli in moderation since these foods can cause gas, Pumpkin in moderation is fine but typically reserved to help ease upset stomach issues. Fruits - This includes blueberries, raspberries both are low calorie, high in antioxidants, and water-packed , strawberries, huckleberries, banana, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, mango, kiwi, pear, peaches no pit , plums no pit , nectarines no pit , fresh pineapple, and apple no core, no seeds. Additional - This includes oatmeal plain , white or brown rice if no intolerance , quinoa, potato, sweet potato, cottage cheese, plain whole white yogurt, and eggs most dogs do best with scrambled eggs vs. Read more about home cooking for a Pug. Snacks and Treats We've covered the frequency of giving snacks and treats, but let's recap. Dry snacks, meant to satiate a dog in between meals should be given 3 to 4 times per day. And moist treats, meant to reward training and reinforce good behavior, should be given as needed. Now, the question remains on what to offer. All snacks and treats should be held to the same high standards that you have in place for your Pug's meals, meaning no synthetic preservatives, artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, soy, corn, by-products, high wheat levels, or generic meats. If your Pug's calorie intake needs to be carefully watched due to issues with weight gain, there will also be a need to opt for some low-calorie treats. And, to see more options, including moist treats for giving reward, continue on to the best snacks and treats for Pugs. After 2 to 3 days, if the problem has resolved, adding in additional ingredients can be done. Any diarrhea lasing longer than 3 days or moderate to severe vomiting lasting more than 12 hours should be brought to the attention of the veterinarian. Water Different elements will dictate just how much water a Pug dog requires , though a general rule of thumb is that each day, dogs need to drink about 1 ounce for each 1 pound. Offer bottled spring water or use a filter device like the. Related Articles: When a Pug is a Picky Eater - If you find yourself constantly scrambling to find foods that your Pug likes and their taste buds seem to change weekly, this will help you get things back on track. When a Pug is Always Hungry - If your Pug's appetite is ferocious and nothing seems to satisfy, these issues may be at the root of the problem. When a Pug Won't Eat - If your Pug puppy or dog refuses to eat or getting them to eat feels like a chore, these tips will help. How to Stop a Pug from Begging - If your Pug wants your food and is relentless about getting it, these guidelines will help stop this sort of behavior. Top 10 Pug Dog Eating Problems - A roundup of the most common eating-related issues seen with this breed and exact steps to resolve them. Do you have your book? All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Aug 25, Share An important part of taking good care of your Pug puppy is making sure that they are properly fed and that they get all the nutrients that they need to grow strong and healthy. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and if your Pug is like most, they seem to like anything that they are fed. Luckily, there are many commercial foods available on the market. There is also the raw doggy food diet that seems to keep getting more popular as time goes on. But what kind of dog food is right for your Pug? How much should you be feeding them? What will the dog not eat? Are there special considerations for a senior Pug? The answers to these questions and more can be found in our Pug feeding guide below. What you do decide to feed your pooch should be based on the quality of the food, no matter the type, and your personal feeding preferences. Here is what can be on the table for your Pug. Image credit: PxHere Commercial Dry Food Kibble Commonly referred to as kibble, commercial dry dog food is the most common and widely available option on the market. Manufacturers of this type of food work hard to balance the ingredients and create a completely balanced nutritional profile for dogs like your Pug. In fact, some brands, like Royal Canin, offer puppy and adult foods made just for Pugs. Whether you choose a dry dog food made just for Pugs or one made for dogs in general, it should include real meat or animal meal as one of the first ingredients on the list. The upside to commercial dry dog food is that it is affordable and easy to administer. It is also typically easy to store for the long term without worrying about it spoiling. The downside is that it tends to be dehydrating, so water should be available to your Pug throughout the day. Commercial Wet Food Commercially made wet dog food tends to be more nutrient-dense than dry food because it contains fresher ingredients and usually has fewer grains, if any at all. Most wet foods have real whole meat or seafood and broth as the first ingredients. Sometimes, veggies are thrown in for good measure, but many are meat-centric to meet the high protein needs of your growing Pug. Wet food is not as easy to store as dry food is, because it must be refrigerated after being opened. However, Pugs tend to enjoy the flavor and texture of wet food more than dry. Wet food is also a little more expensive than dry food, especially when trying to feed Pugs that are full-grown and in their prime. Raw Food A raw food diet is said to result in better digestion, a healthier coat and immune system , optimal dental health, and less susceptibility to allergies among other things. A raw food diet typically consists of quality meat, a source of calcium such as bones , animal organs, and a lower fat count than most commercial foods offer. Feeding your Pug a raw food diet will take commitment and a strong understanding of the nutrition that they need. This type of diet can be expensive and can require storage space in the fridge and freezer. It is recommended that you consult with a veterinarian to put together a complete meal plan to follow if you choose to go this route. It is a freeze-dried raw food supplement that is delicious and nutritious. The process requires about a day of cooking in the kitchen, but the time that you spend in your kitchen should yield enough food for your pooch to eat all week long. You will just have to store the leftovers in the fridge each day until the entire batch has been offered and consumed. Homemade dog food usually consists of whole meat like chicken, eggs, fish oil or flaxseed, brown or white rice, possibly vegetables like carrots and peas , and maybe even supplements of some kind. It depends on what kind of recipe you decide to follow. Any recipe that you consider feeding your dog should be approved by your veterinarian first. But you can quickly tell whether your pooch is being underfed or overfed by checking out their physique every day. If your dog is underfed for too long, you could notice signs like lethargy and an unwillingness to interact with family members. If your dog is overfed, they may succumb to problems like diabetes. If you find that your dog is getting underweight, start feeding them up to an extra cup of food each day. Reduce the amount by up to a cup if your dog is getting pudgy and out of shape. To help avoid under and overfeeding your dog, follow the feeding directions on the packaging of any commercial food you buy for them. If you decide to go the raw or homemade food route, your veterinarian can provide you with a feeding guide. You are free to use this image, but please give credit back to Hepper. Extra immune support is also typically present in puppy food. Once Pugs become adults, they are not as active as when they were pups, and they are not growing at exponential rates, if at all. Therefore, they need food with less protein than what puppies get. Pugs can typically switch to adult dog food between the ages of 9 and 12 months because much of their growth will be complete at this time. The tricky part is the actual process of switching your pooch from puppy to adult dog food. If not done slowly and intentionally, switching to a new food can cause digestion issues for your dog that could create messes around the house. Lethargy and nausea may follow. Finally, offer only adult food. There are many reasons why your Pug might seem like they do not have an appetite. The first thing to consider is whether you are overfeeding them. If your pooch does not want to eat their last meal of the day, they could simply be full and satisfied. However, other issues could lead to a pup not eating such as: Dental Problems. If your Pug has a toothache or some other kind of dental problem, they may not be comfortable eating. Check for red gums, bleeding, and tenderness throughout the mouth. If something unusual is detected, consult your veterinarian immediately for guidance. Recent Vaccinations. Vaccines can cause side effects, including a lack of appetite. So, if your Pug does not seem to want to eat for a day or two after getting vaccinated, this is normal. Uncomfortable Surroundings. If your pooch goes on an adventure with you and is expected to eat their meal in a situation that is not familiar to them, they may pass on the meal altogether in favor of waiting until they get to what they feel is a safe space to eat. Even if your dog seems fine in every other way, a lack of wanting to eat could mean an illness of some kind is brewing. If you cannot find any other reason for a lack of appetite, you should see your vet as soon as possible. Adult Pugs will generally eat about a cup of dry commercial dog food each day or the equivalent, although certain differences might scale this amount up or down as time goes on. Here are the most important factors to consider. Active vs. Sedentary More active dogs will require more food than those that tend to be sedentary. If your pooch takes multiple walks every day, spends a great deal of time playing with kids throughout the day, or enjoys outdoor time with family members each afternoon, chances are that your dog will need a little more food than the average pooch. If your pooch takes only one short walk each day and spends most of their time lounging around the house, chances are that they should be fed as sedentary dogs. Spayed vs. Neutered Sometimes, dogs that are not spayed or neutered eat more than the average pooch. This is because they tend to be more active and excitable, which results in the need for more calories to support their energy needs. Pregnancy Pregnant Pugs need up to twice the amount of food that an adult dog would need. Instead of feeding your pregnant dog puppy or adult food, consider a food designed for all life stages that indicates its suitability for pregnancy. This type of food offers more protein and fat than adult food to support the extra growth they go through, but not as much as puppy food, which could make them overweight after the birth. What Foods Are Bad for Pugs? Image By: Momentmal, Pixabay There are a few foods that you should never feed your Pug to ensure their good health and to avoid serious problems like poisoning and even death. Here are a few food items that should be avoided at all costs: Alcohol. Introduction Importance of choosing the right food for Pug puppies Feeding your Pug puppies the right food can significantly impact their health, growth, and overall well-being. A balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients and energy to support their growth and development and helps to prevent common health issues such as obesity, digestive problems, and food allergies. Factors to consider when selecting the best food for pug puppies When choosing the best food for your Pug puppy, there are several factors to consider, including their age, activity level, and specific nutritional needs. Reading the ingredient list and checking the nutritional content can help you to make an informed decision about the best food for your Pug puppy. Wet Food for Pug Puppies Benefits of wet food Wet food is an excellent option for Pug puppies as it is highly palatable and provides additional moisture, which is important for their growing bodies. Wet food also contains higher levels of protein and essential nutrients, making it a great option for supporting the growth and development of your Pug puppy. Best-reviewed wet food options Royal Canin Pug Puppy Wet Dog Food — This wet food is specifically formulated for Pug puppies, with a balanced ratio of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to meet their unique nutritional needs. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Wet Dog Food — This wet food is made with real meat as the first ingredient and contains wholesome brown rice, barley, and oats to provide the carbohydrates your Pug puppy needs to grow and develop. Dry Food for Pug Puppies Benefits of dry food Dry food is another great option for Pug puppies as it helps to clean their teeth and promote good oral health. Dry food is also a good source of essential nutrients and energy to support the growth and development of your Pug puppy. It contains a balanced protein, fats, and carbohydrates ratio to meet its unique nutritional needs. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food — This dry food is made with real meat as the first ingredient and contains wholesome brown rice, barley, and oats to provide the carbohydrates your Pug puppy needs to grow and develop. Homemade Meals and Snacks for Pug Puppies Benefits of homemade food Homemade meals and snacks are an excellent option for Pug puppies as they allow you to control the ingredients and ensure that your pup gets a healthy and balanced diet. Simple homemade meal and snack recipes for pug puppies Puppy-Friendly Meatloaf: Mix ground turkey or chicken, brown rice, carrots, and green beans for a tasty and nutritious homemade meal for your Pug puppy. Bake in the oven until fully cooked, and serve in small portions. Homemade Puppy Treats: Mix rolled oats, pumpkin puree, and a beaten egg for a simple and healthy snack for your Pug puppy. Roll out the dough, cut it into bite-sized pieces, and bake in the oven until crispy. Use high-quality, fresh ingredients, and avoid using spices and seasonings that can harm dogs. Store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness. A: Wet food can provide a higher moisture content, which can benefit Pug puppies as they need to stay hydrated. Wet food also has a more appealing taste and smell, making it a great option for picky eaters. Q: What ingredients should I look for in dry food for Pug puppies? A: Look for dry food that contains high-quality proteins like chicken or fish, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Q: Can I feed my Pug puppy homemade meals and snacks? Q: How often should I feed my Pug puppy? A: Pug puppies should be fed 3 to 4 times a day until they reach six months of age. Then, they can be fed two times a day. The food they need will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. Q: What is the best food for Pug puppies with sensitive stomachs? A: Wet food with simple ingredients, like boiled chicken and rice, or dry food specifically formulated for sensitive stomachs can be helpful for Pug puppies with digestive issues. Q: Can I feed my Pug puppy adult dog food? A: No, adult dog food does not provide the appropriate nutrients for Pug puppies as they are still growing and developing. Puppy-specific food is formulated to meet their unique nutritional needs. Gradual changes over a few days to a week are recommended to avoid discomfort. Conclusion Recap of the best food options When choosing the best food for your Pug puppy, several options exist. Dry food is also a good option as it helps to clean teeth and is easy to store. Final thoughts The most important thing is to choose a food specifically formulated for Pug puppies with high-quality ingredients to meet their unique nutritional needs. Choosing the best food for your Pug puppy will give them the foundation for a happy and healthy life. From pet nutrition books to online articles, a wealth of information is available on this topic. These resources will give you a deeper understanding of the nutritional needs of your Pug puppy and help you make informed decisions about the best food options for their growth and development. Kibble, cans and specialty foods Proper Nutrition Since puppies need energy to grow big and strong, their food is higher in calories and packed with more nutrients. This includes more fat, protein, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. So always choose a food that is labelled for puppies. Since a Pug is a small toy breed , they will grow very quickly and reach adulthood much faster than larger breeds. Toy dog breeds actually need more calories per pound than larger breeds due to their higher metabolic rates. The structure of their flat muzzle and facial folds , while appealing to look at, unfortunately causes a number of serious health problems. This causes soft tissue to block the airways, making breathing very difficult. Their jaws and teeth can also cause them problems. Remember, slimmer is better. How Often To Feed Your Pug Puppy I always recommend feeding puppies small meals at scheduled times several hours apart, and then decreasing the frequency as they get older. For puppies under six months go with something like 7am, 12noon, 3pm then 6pm. As they grow you can reduce this routine to three or even two times a day, but there is no harm continuing with multiple feedings as long as you dividing their daily rations evenly. Kibble vs Canned Food Dried puppy kibble is affordable, easy to store and transport, and readily available. Serving is as simple as opening the package and pouring it into the bowl. Canned or wet food will sometimes offer more meat protein and fewer carbohydrates than kibble does, but you will usually pay more as well. Wet food is also associated with an increase in periodontal diseases , which is not ideal for a dog already prone to these issues. Specialty Pug Puppy Foods The introduction of breed-specific formulas to the market has made it even more confusing. However, there are some Pug puppy formulations that address some of their health issues that might be worth considering. Some kibble is designed in a shape and texture that makes it easier for short-nosed puppies to pick up and chew easily. But the sad part of the story is that just like any other dog, pugs get obese very quickly. As they say, you become what you eat. Since the pug is a tiny dog, even one extra pound will affect its appearance. For this reason, it becomes important to keep a check on what your pug is eating. The present article talks about the feeding guidelines of this adorable dog: How much is too much? It is very important to feed your dog the correct amount of food to ensure that the pug is getting enough calories for proper growth. Any deviation from the right amount will led to health problems in a pug. Age, activity, metabolism and build of a dog are the major factors on which the amount of food which should be given to a dog depends. Also, the type of food you are giving to a dog is another important factor. If you are feeding home cooked food to one pug and commercial dog food to another dog with same age, build and activity level, it is not necessary that both of them will consume the same amount. As a general rule of thumb, a puppy pug should be given 1 ounce of food per one pound of body weight. For adult pugs, the amount is halved. What about calories? A pug puppy which is in his growth phase requires more calories than adult and senior pugs. On an average, a puppy requires 50 calories per pound of their body weight while an adult pug requires 40 calories per pound of their body weight. Senior pugs need fewer calories because of slow metabolism and less activity level. Free feeding is not recommended to the pug. The following table illustrates the right feeding regime and meal frequency for pugs: Age Amount of food given at one time No.

We have had several different breeds over the years and all of them have brought us joy. After my daughter, at age 3 she's now 20 , was diagnosed with severe allergies, we were forced to find a new home for our German Shepherd. That left an empty spot in our lives. A difficult pregnancy and a premature baby put our search on hold for a while. When things settled down, we resumed our search. We were drawn again and again to the Standard Poodle. Their size was perfect. Big enough to handle whatever the kids might throw at them, but not too big to be in the house all the time. Their intelligence and trainability were also exciting for us. The Standard Poodle is one of the most versatile breeds in existence. We would love to help your family find the companion and friend that we have found with our dogs! Our Poodles are members of our family! They are interacted with daily from the moment of birth. This results in very well socialized puppies that adjust to their new homes quickly and confidently. Take some time to browse the site and feel free to contact us with any questions that you may have. We look forward to making your family part of the Hometown Poodles family! More Information. Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting a Toy Poodle, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to Poodles". It's written by experienced Poodle owner and dog trainer Tarah Schwartz. The book contains a lot of really useful insights that can help a new owner avoid common mistakes that most Poodle owners make. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon, or you can download the audiobook version here. If you can't find the perfect Toy Poodle puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many Toy Poodles young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos! Welcome to the Kansas state page on TrustedPuppies. Situated in the heart of America, Kansas boasts a unique blend of breathtaking prairies, rolling hills, and thriving cities, making it an excellent destination for Toy Poodle aficionados. Our mission is to connect you with the best Kansas Toy Poodle breeders and puppies for sale throughout Kansas. Our site features a wide variety of reputable breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Ranking 28th in dog ownership among the states, Kansas is home to an estimated thousand dogs. Kansas offers an array of dog-friendly amenities, including numerous dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and events that cater to the canine community. Immerse yourself in the lively dog show scene by attending events like the Sunflower Cluster Dog Show, where dog enthusiasts gather to celebrate their love for their cherished companions. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Toy Poodle breeders offer secure and affordable flight delivery, with a dedicated flight nanny accompanying your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring they have a safe and comfortable trip as they travel to their new home in the Sunflower State. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option ensures your Toy Poodle puppy is brought to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet travel. Begin your search for the perfect Toy Poodle puppy today on TrustedPuppies.