pug cross boston terrier puppies for sale

pug cross boston terrier puppies for sale

Ohld ing-glish Bool-dawg Description The Olde English Bulldogge is a muscular, medium sized dog of great strength, stability and athleticism. He is well balanced and proportioned, with no features exaggerated or standing out. He has the appearance of a dog capable of doing his original job, bull baiting. The OEB head is prominent and dramatic. The cheeks are large, well developed and display powerful jaw muscles. A slightly wrinkled forehead is acceptable. There is a crease from the stop to the occiput. It has a narrow skull and domed forehead. The muzzle is square, wide and deep, with definite layback. Distance from the tip of the nose to the stop does not exceed one-third of the distance from the tip of the nose to the occiput. Height of the muzzle from the bottom of the chin to the top of the muzzle is equal to or greater than the length of the muzzle, thus producing the deep, square muzzle. There is slight to moderate wrinkle on the muzzle. Flews are semi-pendulous. The bite is undershot and horizontally straight. Lower jawbone is moderately curved from front to back. Eyes are round to almond-shape and medium sized. They are set wide apart, with the outside corner of the eye intersecting with the outside line of the skull and are set low, at the level of the muzzle, where the stop and muzzle intersect. Eye color is brown, with black pigmented eye rims. Canine teeth are large. Broken, chipped or extracted teeth are acceptable. There are 6 corn row teeth between canines. Nostrils are wide with a line running vertically between nostrils from the tip of nose down to the bottom of the upper lip. Nose is large and broad in relationship to the width of the muzzle. Nose color is black. Ears are rose, button or tulip, with rose preferred. They are set high and to the rear of the skull. The ears are positioned as wide as possible on the outside of the skull. They are small to medium in size. Neck is medium length, wide, and slightly arched. It is a little smaller than the head where the two meet, and gets wider from that point to the shoulders. It is slightly loose from jaw to chest, forming a double dewlap. They are broad, heavily muscled and have a separation between shoulder blades. The scapula shoulder blade should be at an approximate degree angle to vertical and form an angle approximately degrees to the humerus forearm. Scapula and humerus should be roughly equal in length. A vertical line drawn from the point of the scapula top to the ground will pass directly through the elbow. The elbows are not turned in or out. The legs are set wide apart, coming straight down from the shoulders. They are straight vertically on inside of legs and well-muscled, giving a bowed appearance of front quarters. The forelegs have medium bone and are in proportion to the body. The pasterns are medium in length. They are straight, strong, flexible and nearly perpendicular to the ground. Body is sturdy and powerful. The length from tip of breastbone to rear thigh is slightly longer than the height from ground to withers. The back is wide and muscular, showing power. Topline has a slight roach or wheel back. There is a fall in the back, to its low spot behind the shoulders. From this point the spine rises to the loin. The high point of the loin is a little bit higher than the shoulders then there is a gentle curve, forming an arch, down to the tail. Loin back of ribcage to hips is muscular, medium in length and slightly arched. The chest is wide and deep with a muscular brisket. Ribs are well sprung and rounded, being at their fullest directly behind the shoulders. Shoulders to forelegs are well muscled. Hips and thighs are strong and muscular. Hind legs are well muscled and slightly longer than the forelegs. In a natural stance they are straight, parallel and set apart when viewed from the rear. Distance between hind legs is less than distance between front legs. Angulation is moderate. Stifles have a gentle convex curve when viewed from the side. Stifle angle roughly matches the angle of the pelvis. Hocks are perpendicular to the ground when viewed from the side and back. They are parallel to each other when viewed from the back. A line drawn from the rear-most part of the buttocks, perpendicular to the ground, should fall to the front of the toes. They are straight when viewed from the front. Rear feet are smaller than front feet. Tail should be set low and tapering from base to end. It can be pump handle or straight, with pump handle being preferred. Tail should reach the hocks or be slightly shorter and carried down or horizontal. Some breeders choose to dock the tail. Coat is short, close and of medium density. It should be shiny, showing good health. Color can be brindle of red, gray, fawn or black; either solid or pied with white. Solid white, fawn, red or black; solid color or pied. Temperament Olde English Bulldogges are docile, but capable and protective, fearless and athletic, fierce-looking, determined and courageous, bold and friendly around their family and friends, but fearless adversaries to anyone who threatens their masters or property. This breed likes to chew and should be supplied with plenty of toys and bones. Nylabones and rubber Kong toys are highly recommended. Rawhides, soft rubber and stuffed toys are unsafe, for they are easily shredded or swallowed whole. Olde English Bulldogges are so eager to please that they may overexert themselves in an effort to do whatever is asked of them. An owner who displays a natural authority toward the dog, socialization and obedience training are important. It is best to channel high energy individuals to some type of work and exercise. The objective in training this dog is to achieve pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in its pack. When we humans live with dogs , we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. Because a dog communicates his displeasure with growling and eventually biting, all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. The humans must be the ones making the decisions, not the dogs. That is the only way your relationship with your dog can be a complete success. This breed tends to drool and slobber. Height, Weight Height: Males 17 - 20 inches 43 - 51 cm Females 16 - 19 inches 40 - 48 kg Weight: Males 60 - 80 pounds 27 - 36 kg Females 50 - 70 pounds 22 - 31 kg Health Problems May be susceptible to bloat —a painful and often fatal condition that can be brought on by too large a quantity of food consumed at one time. As with all large breeds, hip dysplasia sometimes occurs. Breeders are working hard to keep it out of the Olde English Bulldogge; therefore, no dog with bad hips is bred. Living Conditions Olde English Bulldogges will adapt to almost any lifestyle. They should be protected from the extreme cold and heat, although they are not as susceptible as the AKC Bulldog. Exercise This breed needs to be taken on a daily pack walk to satisfy its migration instinct. When properly conditioned they can be active dogs, however, they are equally happy with moderate exercise. They can stay in relatively good shape with good muscle tone with only light exercise. These dogs are naturally slow, and because of their unique structure, they should not be encouraged to jump or engage in strenuous exercise as young pups. This breed is an average shedder. In he became disenchanted with English Bulldogs due to their breeding and breathing problems. David's goal was to produce a dog with the looks of the 18th century bulldog, with the temperament of today's English Bulldogs, yet healthy, without breathing problems, or all the other aliments today's English Bulldogs are prone to. This new breed can now breathe. Cesarean section births are not necessary. Artificial insemination, due to male ineptness and lack of drive, has been replaced by natural ties. Lifespan is over eleven years. All breeding stock has had hip x-rays. No dog with bad hips is bred. David says he is now achieving his goal of producing a Bulldog with the health and temperament to be able to serve people, instead of forcing people to serve him. David Leavitt is breeding them to more of a working lines type dog, while OEBKC is breeding the dogs as more of a family oriented dog. Less - The Olde English Bulldogge is a muscular, medium-sized dog of great strength, and possesser of fluid, agile movement. He is well balanced and proportioned, while appearing capable of performing without any breathing restrictions in either heat or in cold. Serious Faults: Excessive wrinkle, lack of pigment around eyes, nose or mouth. Olde English Bulldogges are docile, but capable and protective, fearless and athletic, fierce-looking, determined and courageous, bold and friendly around their family and friends, but fearless adversaries to anyone who threatens their masters or property. This breed likes to chew and should be supplied with plenty of toys and bones. This breed tends to drool and slobber. History In a breeding project began using a linebreeding scheme developed by Dr. Fechimer of Ohio State to rapidly achieve a purebred dog. They are, first and foremost, excellent companions, while also possessing the drive, temperament and agility to perform in numerous working venues as well as being service dogs. The revival of a healthy dog with the longevity to live well into its teens is a primary goal.

Ready to go today. That leaves us with a lot to do in order to get her home dealt with and other things that come along with loved ones needing us. Now is just not the time to keep a pup back. I was having fun just watching them grow to see who will be the one or two! These pups are standard size and will be 65lbs or more grown. If you are ready to pickup today we can arrange that as long as we have a few hours notice. One boy is available. We do have new pricing options available for him. Our F1 Bernedoodles are bred from OFA and Genetically tested parents and are an excellent choice for those looking for a healthy and intelligent companion. OFA testing is a series of evaluations performed by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, which can help identify any potential genetic health issues. By breeding dogs that have passed these tests, we can reduce the risk of passing on inherited conditions to their offspring. Bernedoodles, a cross between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature, making them an ideal family pet. Choosing an F1 Bernedoodle from OFA and Genetically tested parents can increase the chances of getting a happy and healthy addition to your family. Alice and Jackson also have Genetic Panels completed by Paw Print Genetics so we know their pups will never develop any genetic diseases common to their breeds. As an added benefit and protection, all pups come with a two year health warranty as well. She loves to play catch and she is great at retrieving. She is AKC Registered. Her coat is thick and her puppies usually get this trait from her too. He is your typical Bernese, loves pet and he wants to sit on your lap at all times. He has an incredible coat, soft and so shiny. He is AKC Registered. He is the Dad of our F1 Bernedoodle puppies. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Allen Park Michigan and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! View Our Available Bernedoodle Puppies! Standard Bernedoodles are bigger than Mini Bernedoodles reaching weights of pounds. They average inches in height at the shoulders when fully grown. Our Standard Bernedoodle puppies are all 1st generation-F1 variety puppies. They have purebred Bernese Mountain dogs for moms and the dads are Standard poodles. Their Standard Bernedoodles life expectancy is years old. Blue Diamond Bernedoodles have a loving, easy-going, and calm temperament. Bernedoodles are very loyal and social and love to spend time with their parents. Standard Bernedoodles need regular grooming because of their curly and thick coats. Shedding is very minimal after their first haircut and grooming. This breed is known to be a hypoallergenic choice. Here at Blue Diamond Family Kennels, we specialize in breeding Standard Bernedoodles along with a few other great breeds. We have teamed up with a few other reputable Bernedoodle breeders that breed and raise Bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. On our Standard Bernedoodle puppies page you will see all of our available puppies for sale.

He is sweet, silly, snuggly, and ridiculously cute. He is just about everything that is good in a dog. Petey loves to entertain himself and others with his playful attitude and his puppy-like antics. He loves to start each day with a happy morning wiggle dance, and he will perform encores throughout the day. Petey is an affectionate fellow. He only gives occasional kisses, but loves to get close to you; nuzzle you; lean; poke at you with his front feet as boxers do; and when he is feeling silly which is often! He is accustomed to sleeping in bed with a person and snuggling all night. Truthfully, he can get away without it inside the home because he is an easy, good boy to live with! However, he is overly excited out in the world, on walks, in the car, and seeing new people and animals, so he would benefit from some guidance to help him behave calmly in those situations. At this point, meeting people is extremely exciting, but meeting dogs is just too overwhelming for him to handle. Petey had a dramatic entrance into rescue, as he was pulled from the shelter while he was suffering from bloat a medical emergency fatal within hours. Pulling a dog in critical condition, when we know the cost will be tremendous and a good outcome far from guaranteed, requires a leap of faith. The shelter vet bought Petey time by puncturing his stomach to decompress the gas that was building up. Within an hour of first being contacted by the shelter, a flurry of communication had occurred, an NCBR volunteer darted to the shelter, delivered Petey to an emergency vet, and Petey was being prepped for surgery. But we are overjoyed to say that Petey made it through surgery and is now recovering in the hospital. Petey Donor Spotlight: Doreen Murotsune For many of us who give our hearts, time, or dollars to rescue, we are first inspired by the love of a single special dog. Hana belonged to friends of Doreen, but Doreen and her boxer, Benjamin, fell in love with her. Benjamin and Hana were best friends, and Benjamin was always on the lookout for Hana and ready to protect her from any yappy Chihuahua who tried to intimidate her. In addition to being an active Strut Your Mutt teammate for each of the past 5 years, Doreen browses the boxers in our care and sponsors many dogs whose stories warm her heart. She not only sponsors dogs with single or repeat financial gifts, but also inquires about dogs with prescription diet needs and then purchases those diets on an autoship schedule, having the food mailed directly to foster homes. Planned Giving If you have ever loved a dog, you know that — while their lives are short in comparison to ours — the love you share is timeless. By including NorCal Boxer Rescue in your Will or Trust or naming the organization as a beneficiary on certain accounts, you ensure that for years to come, NCBR is able to continue rescuing boxers, providing them the care they need, and uniting them with families who will love them forever. Dogs are an incredibly important part of our lives. You can make them a part of your heritage. Click here to learn about the different options. Growing Old with You We know that the best place for an old dog is home with loved ones. Click here to find out more about the Growing Old with You program. Grey Muzzle Thank You! We are so honored to be a Grey Muzzle Organization grantee again this year! We know that many of you have a soft spot for frosted faces, but that the cost of caring for a senior boxer has given you pause when it comes to adopting one. We hope that this support will give you the security you need to give your heart away to a beautiful older soul. Thank you, Grey Muzzle, for trusting in us and for supporting our efforts! We are grateful for your partnership! Thank you, Hoven Foundation. Each dog who enters our lives is a gift. They bring us untold joy and share with us their unconditional love. They teach us to be better people. For nearly 10 years, The Hoven Foundation has not only appreciated the gift that each dog represents, but they have given back generously. The continued support of the Hoven Foundation has meant the difference between life and death for countless beautiful souls. Thank you to the Hoven Foundation for what you give to our dogs and, in turn, to all those whose lives those dogs touch. Join Our Mailing List! NCBR is a c 3 nonprofit and donations are tax deductible. We now accept vehicle donations! Donate your car, boat, RV, motorcycle or farm equipment. Plus you get a tax deduction! Call RIDE to donate or learn more. Upcoming Events.

Rabies Vaccine Rabies is a viral infection caused by a virus secreted in the saliva. According to the Humane Society , because the infection affects the nervous system, most rabid animals behave abnormally. When should puppies get rabies shots? Generally speaking, puppies should get their first rabies shot around 16 weeks of age and again between years old. Rabies Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks Booster: every 3 years Non-core Vaccines Non-core vaccines are important, but they are considered optional for dogs with less risk of infection. Non-core vaccines are recommended based on lifestyle and where you live or travel. Bordetella Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium associated with respiratory disease in dogs and is known to cause the most severe form of kennel cough. Symptoms of an upper respiratory infection include nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing, congestion, etc. Some veterinarians may recommend Bordetella as a core vaccine for puppies based on their living environment, especially for social dogs who spend time in areas where they might come into contact with the bacteria like the dog park, boarding facilities, or doggy daycare. The vaccination can be given orally, intranasally, or by injection. Bordetella Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks Booster: every year Leptospira Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by infection of the genus Leptospira, which are found in water and soil. The zoonotic disease spreads easily from animals to humans and is more common in warm climate areas with high annual rainfall; the Leptospira vaccine may be considered core in these areas. Signs of leptospirosis may include shivering, fever, muscle tenderness, increased thirst, dehydration, diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, jaundice, kidney failure, liver failure, etc. Leptospira Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks 3rd shot: 1 year Booster: every year There is also a 5-way vaccine known as DHLPP, which is a combination vaccine of distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, and parvo. Lyme disease Lyme disease is caused by infection with the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi which is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. The most common symptoms in dogs include loss of appetite, lameness, joint swelling, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. More serious cases can also develop kidney complications. The Lyme disease vaccine is highly recommended for dogs that live in or frequently travel to areas known for Lyme disease, as well as those living in areas with a high risk of tick exposure. Lyme Vaccination Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks 2nd shot: weeks later Booster: every year Canine Influenza Canine influenza, or dog flu, is a contagious viral infection affecting dogs. The virus is spread through aerosols or droplets containing respiratory secretions from barking, sneezing, and coughing. Dogs in close contact with infected dogs in places like daycare facilities, groomers, and kennels are at a higher risk of contracting the disease. CIV causes an acute respiratory infection in dogs, with the most common clinical sign being a cough that persists for up to 21 days. Vaccines are available for both H3N2 and H3N8 canine influenza. A bivalent vaccine offering protection against both strains is available as well. Dogs become infected when they swallow the parasite that may be present in water or other substances that have been soiled with feces leading to the disease Giardiasis. Giardia in dogs usually causes diarrhea, weight loss, or even death. Giardia is an available vaccine for puppies 8 weeks of age and older for 6 months of immunity against giardiasis. Most common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Young dogs are at a high risk of contracting the disease, so the vaccine is highly recommended for puppies under eight weeks. Rattlesnake vaccine A rattlesnake vaccine can help dogs build antibodies to rattlesnake venom from bites that are often deadly and severely painful to dogs. The antibodies work to neutralize the venom, thereby significantly extending the window of time you have to take your dog to the emergency room , increasing their odds of survival. Protect yourself from heartbreak without breaking the bank. Compare quotes to find the best deal for your budget. After that, puppies should receive a series of vaccines every two to four weeks until actual protein can be achieved between the ages of 6 and 20 weeks old. Your vet will determine a safe vaccine schedule for your puppy based on their weight, health, age, etc. Some pet parents prefer getting multiple puppy shots in one vet visit to minimize stress on their pet, whereas others prefer to spread the shots out to reduce possible side effects and soreness — talk to your vet to create a safe vaccine schedule that works for you and your puppy. Rabies depends on local laws but is usually given by the time your dog reaches 3 to 6 months old. When should puppies have all their shots by? Most vets prefer giving the final DHPP shot at 16 weeks or later; however, new recommendations suggest up to 20 weeks out. When do puppies need booster shots? Abstaining from booster shots can put your puppy at risk. However, not all vaccines require yearly boosters. DHPP vaccine booster: every two weeks for a total of three sets, then every three years Lepto, Canine influenza, and Lyme disease vaccine booster: one month after the initial series, then annually Bordetella booster: 1 year or every 6 months where there is a concern Rabies booster: every 1 to 3 years after the initial round, depending on state laws Puppy Vaccine Schedule There are several types of puppy shots your pet might get in their first year. In addition to a deworming schedule, your vet will suggest a vaccination schedule for puppies based on their age, environment, and medical history. Most vets recommend this general timeline for first-year puppy shots: weeks of age Between 6- and 8-weeks-old, puppies get their first shot of the DHPP distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus vaccine. They might also receive their first round of vaccinations for Bordetella and Lyme disease. Leptospira Lepto is a common puppy vaccination administered around this time frame. They'll also get their first rabies vaccine depending on state-mandated vaccine schedules for puppies, as well as a second shot of the Lepto vaccine if applicable. Boosters Every Years Puppies will need a booster shot for all vaccines at age 1. Dogs need booster vaccinations for Bordetella, Lepto, Lyme, and Giardia annually receiving their first immunization as an adult. The vaccination schedule for DHPP and rabies is every 3 years, but check your local laws and defer to your veterinarian's advice to ensure your pet stays free of disease. How much are puppy shots? Non-essential vaccines your vet may recommend will also increase the price. Note that puppy shots cost more or less depending on several different factors, including your location. For instance, vets in crowded urban areas tend to charge more than vets in smaller towns and rural areas. Also keep in mind that you'll need to budget for booster shots in one- or three-year intervals to ensure your pet stays protected from disease. Fortunately, vaccines for dogs are less expensive than first-year puppy shots because boosters are administered in one dose every few years, as opposed to multiple doses every few weeks. All puppies need to get the core vaccines, i. Your veterinarian will consider the risk factors and advise you on which vaccines are best for your puppy during the first vet visit. No, but both vaccines for puppies are often combined in one shot. Distemper and parvovirus are two different illnesses that are potentially fatal if not treated quickly. What is the 5-in-1 shot for puppies? Do puppies need 3 or 4 sets of shots? It depends on their age; vets may recommend a shorter puppy vaccination schedule for dogs over 16 weeks old and not yet fully vaccinated. How many shots do puppies need before going outside? A titer test is a blood test showing whether your puppy has antibodies for a particular illness. The test can be used to determine the effectiveness of a vaccine and help determine if or which booster vaccines your dog needs. Most doggy daycares and boarding facilities do not accept a titer test in lieu of a puppy vaccination record. When should puppies get dewormed? Because worms are very common in puppies, veterinarians recommend deworming them for the first time when they're two to three weeks old. Is there a heartworm vaccine for puppies? Preventatives can either be administered as monthly medication or every six months by injection. How can you save money on puppy shots? One way to save money on puppy vaccines is by visiting a low-cost vaccination clinic. These clinics typically offer packages that combine a bundle of vaccinations into a lower price point, but also offer individual options if your dog is due for a specific vaccine. Another way to save money on puppy shots is by purchasing a pet wellness plan through a pet insurance provider. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Titers measure antibody levels in the blood through laboratory analysis or by in-clinic antibody test kits. The results come in the form of positive there are protective levels of the antibody against the virus or negative there are not protective levels of antibody against the virus in the blood. The memory cells file away the information from the virus, so it can respond so subsequent exposure before symptoms appear. Lack of distinction between the two kinds of responses may be why some practitioners think titers can suddenly disappear. A positive titer test result in an unvaccinated, but healthy dog or cat suggests prior exposure to and recovery from infection. And it means that the dog or cat now has protective immunity. A positive titer test result in a previously vaccinated dog or cat correlates well with protective immunity. A negative titer test result in a previously vaccinated dog or cat must be interpreted on the basis of age and prior vaccination history. It can mean the animal is protected with the help of memory cells, or it can mean he or she is susceptible to infection. If your dog has had a previous positive titer, then this is a good indication that there are protective memory cells present. Full laboratory titer testing is often costly and might take several days for results. Fortunately, two companies now offer in-clinic antibody titer test kits to veterinarians that are much more affordable and super quick — you can get results in as little as 15 to 20 minutes. TiterCHEK , manufactured by Synbiotics Corporation, offers testing for canine distemper and canine parvovirus with results shown as positive or negative. VacciCheck , manufactured by Biogal Galed Laboratories, offers testing for canine adenovirus, canine distemper, canine parvovirus, feline calicivirus FCV , feline herpesvirus FHV and feline parvovirus with results shown as negative, low positive, significant positive or high positive. Keep in mind that these test kits have been correlated through gold standard lab tests such as virus neutralization VN or hemagglutination inhibition HI , or challenge testing results. Animal vaccines are licensed based on challenge — considered the only true test of protective immunity — where unvaccinated animals are infected with a virus to manifest clinical illness and vaccinated animals remain healthy. This correlation is done in order to be able to accurately represent a defined threshold of antibody. Today, in-clinic titer test kits for canine distemper, canine parvovirus, canine adenovirus and feline parvovirus correlate well with gold standard tests. So when these in-clinic tests are performed properly, it means that a positive test result demonstrates the dog or cat does have protective levels of antibody against the virus. To date, a rabies virus antibody titer cannot be interpreted as an index of immunity in lieu of revaccination. Some dogs do not need every vaccine. This decision is between you and your veterinarian. Always discuss puppy vaccinations at your regularly scheduled appointments. That said, here is a generally accepted guideline of the puppy vaccination schedule for the first year. You also need to learn more about vaccines before deciding what is best for your baby. Powered by GoDaddy Website Builder. Adenovirus type 1 canine hepatitis Adenovirus type 2 kennel cough Lyme disease Bordetella Leptospirosis, and Parainfluenza. While a young puppy or French Bulldog is still small and has not completed the core vaccinations, it would be best to keep them away from kennels, dog parks, or spaces and places where they could contract various illnesses that they have not yet formed any immunity to. At what age should my French Bulldog be vaccinated? The age at which you should get your French Bulldog vaccinated will vary depending on which vaccine it is and may come in doses rather than a single shot. A puppy as young as six weeks can begin a series of shots for distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus type 1 for hepatitis, adenovirus type 2 for kennel cough, parainfluenza, and Bordetella optional. At 16 weeks or three months, your French Bulldog should receive its first rabies shot, although some may vaccinate for rabies as early as 12 weeks. The rabies vaccination can be done in a single shot or dose and is often regulated by the state the age at which your French Bulldog should be vaccinated. If you choose to vaccinate your French Bulldog for Lyme disease, this can be done at week nine and require two doses to complete, two to four weeks apart. At eight weeks old, you may choose to vaccinate your puppy for Leptospirosis. The Leptospirosis vaccine must also be completed in two doses two to four weeks apart. A vaccine is available for Canine Influenza and can be administered at weeks, and is also completed in two doses two to four weeks apart. What is the purpose of the main vaccinations? These vaccines are crucial barriers to protecting your French Bulldog from very serious diseases and infections that could endanger their lives and other dogs or wildlife. While many are aware of rabies and its destructive nature to dogs due to the lack of a cure, familiarity with the other core vaccines and their purpose is not as common. Distemper is a serious, extremely contagious, and often fatal disease in dogs that is very much like rabies. The disease can cause coughing, sneezing, lethargy, loss of appetite in your French Bulldog. Seizures are common, and a common initial symptom is a puss-like discharge in their eyes. Adenovirus type 1 protects your dog from infectious canine hepatitis, which is not unlike human hepatitis, a disease that attacks the liver. Adenovirus type 2 helps prevent kennel cough, an acute respiratory infection in dogs that causes coughing and sneezing, much like a cold in humans. Parvovirus in canines is an extremely contagious infection that causes vomiting, fever, nausea, and bloody diarrhea. Parainfluenza is another highly contagious infection that acts as respiratory disease, causing cough and canine cough. Much like a human virus, parainfluenza can cause a cough, sneezing, a fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, and Kennel Cough are often accompanied by some bacterial infections such as Bordetella. For this reason, many dog owners choose to vaccinate their dogs for Bordetella along with the core vaccines. The most common side effect of vaccination in your French Bulldog or puppy will likely be feeling sore or lethargic. Most puppies and dogs are back to normal energy and behavior within a couple of days. Sometimes small lumps or bumps that may be sensitive to touch can be found at the injection site of vaccination. New ways to implement vaccines, such as the Bordetella spray vaccine, were developed to create immunities in the first place where a dog might develop or be prone to infection from the disease, may have the adverse effect of causing your French Bulldog to have the sniffles or sneeze. Very serious reactions, such as anaphylaxis or infections and abscesses at the site of vaccine infection, are exceedingly rare. Adverse reactions of this degree often occur within hours of vaccination, and your veterinarian should be contacted and seen immediately to treat these issues. What should I expect from the veterinarian? The veterinarian will do a full-scale physical examination of your puppy, checking weight, temperature, and lymph nodes, then do a brief behavioral observation allowing your pup to walk around the room. Your veterinarian should explain the vaccination schedule for your puppy, appropriate to its age and any previous vaccination history. Then the veterinarian will administer the shots as necessary in a relatively quick and mostly painless process. Vaccinations for your French Bulldog or French Bulldog puppy will vary depending upon what veterinarian services your dog. If you got your French Bulldog or French Bulldog puppy from a shelter, it is more than likely that the shelter has already paid for and administered the necessary vaccines for your dog. Should I vaccinate my French Bulldog every year? Most vaccine schedules propose that dog owners bring their pets and dogs in for a booster shot at least once a year. The core vaccination shots for distemper, adenovirus types 1 and 2, parvovirus, and parainfluenza should be taken one year after initial series completion. Once the vaccination has been administered in this timeline, the best practice is to administer a booster once every three years. After the first year of a successful Rabies shot administration, most dogs are eligible to get the three-year rabies shot, a dosage that will only require a booster every three years. Non-core vaccinations are optional but are often recommended boosters of one year if dog owners choose to get them. Your local veterinarian or canine care provider will be able to walk you through the process, ensuring the best practices are followed for your French Bulldog. Vaccinations are a key component of canine health for your beloved French Bulldog and will help your French Bulldog or puppy live their healthiest, longest, and most enjoyable life. While there are some mild reactions and side effects to dog and puppy vaccination, more likely than not, these issues will resolve in a short period and will be well worth the initial discomfort your French Bulldog might feel. However, there are recommended guidelines you need to consider around what point your puppy is with their vaccinations and injections. When can a puppy go outside for walks? The first lot of vaccinations should be done around the 6-week mark, with the second injections happening at around 12 weeks of age. Puppies can go outside for walks 2 weeks after their final set of vaccinations. The second injection typically occurs at 12 weeks old, meaning your puppy can go outside when they are around 16 weeks of age. Can puppies go out in the garden before injections? Puppies can go in the garden before their vaccination injections. Un-vaccinated dogs pose a health risk to puppies who have yet to have their injections. Having your young puppy go out in the garden before injections is good for their development. It means that they get some fresh air and get used to the outdoors, which will make their first walk a lot less intimidating for them once that time comes. Only let your puppy socialise with dogs you already know have been vaccinated and in the safety of your backyard or garden. Once your puppy has had their initial lot of vaccinations, it is important to not skip the second set. This will help avoid them from catching any illnesses or diseases in the future. Most dogs will need booster vaccinations once a year following these two initial vaccines, although your vet will tell you if another treatment plan is more appropriate. Can my puppy go out in the garden before the second vaccination? The second lot of vaccinations can be administered once the dog is at least twelve weeks or three months old. So, in most cases, this would be 4 weeks after you bring your puppy home for the first time. Can puppies go in the garden before the second injection? Never expose your puppy to unknown dogs before they have completed all vaccinations. Once your puppy has received their second vaccinations, it is safe for them to go beyond the garden and to be taken on walks. Puppies can go out in the garden before their second vaccination, but with some caveats. What age can puppies go to kennels? If your puppy is likely to spend time at kennels in the near future, they will need an additional vaccination to protect them against kennel cough, which they can catch from other dogs. Puppies can go to kennels once they reach 12 weeks old. By this time, they will have had all of their injections and will be fully vaccinated against a range of health problems including kennel cough. It is possible to have your puppy vaccinated against kennel cough from 6 weeks old. However, kennel owners will still insist that the dog has had its full range of injections including the second set which typically occurs after 12 weeks. Can I take my dog out before vaccinations? You can take your dog out before vaccinations, but it needs to be in a controlled environment such as your own garden or backyard. What are the injections for? The vaccinations protect your puppy from a range of dangerous diseases and viruses including canine distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis and parvovirus. What are the risks if I take my puppy outside too early? If you take your puppy outside before they have had both injections, they will be exposed to some or all of the serious diseases cited above, giving them an increased chance of becoming infected and unwell, especially since their immune system is more vulnerable than older dogs who have missed a booster. They could catch it from interacting with an unvaccinated dog, walking in an area inhabited by certain diseases or even directly licking dangerous things outside that could not only carry a serious disease, but also be poisonous in itself. This could lead to them developing an anxious and skittish disposition during a very formative period in their lives. Behavior like this can be hard to undo and reverse. Finally, if you take your puppy on walks too early, you risk over-exercising them, which can lead to injuries and joint problems like early-onset arthritis in the future. Puppies can go outside in your garden at 12 weeks old providing they have had their injections. If you want to get your pup used to the outside world without overwhelming them or exposing them to harmful diseases, you can carry them as opposed to walking them on a lead or letting them roam of their own accord — this has the dual effect of keeping them away from harm and making them feel more safe and secure. The bottom line is this; to be completely on the safe side, puppies can go out in the garden before their injections as you have complete control over this situation. An 8-week-old puppy go out in my garden as can a week-old. You should take your new puppy to the vets anyway, for a general health check. How much should they walk after injections? Once your puppy has had their second lot of vaccinations, it is usually safe around the 14 to week mark to take them out on their first walk. However, make sure you are attuned to how much exercise your pup can manage and be careful to not overexert them. For a dog under 6 months, a ten minute walk a couple times a day is usually more than enough. A good rule of thumb to gradually increase their stamina and exercise as they grow bigger and older is to extend your walks by five minutes every month. If you have difficulties controlling your dog off-the-lead, you should contact a professional dog-trainer. Conclusion When you bring home an adorable bundle of fluff full of boundless energy and excitement, it can be tempting to launch straight into a fun and active lifestyle, with long walks and play sessions in the great outdoors. Finding the right balance between integrating your puppy into everyday life and protecting them against harmful diseases and other dangers can be especially difficult at first, but you will be able to find a way that works for both you and your pup as time goes by and you both get to know each other better. Go with your gut to find the right balance, but if you have any further doubts you can speak to your vet or a trainer to find the best way to navigate this process of introducing your puppy to the world. It is a daunting but ultimately very rewarding task! Handy Hint: Please now read my guide to walking French Bulldogs. It includes notes on walking distances, regularity, and best practices to keep things safe. You might also like…. What do I need to know about immunizations for my Frenchie puppy? This information will all be in the packet you will receive when you obtain your puppy. Zoetis is a modified live virus for vaccination of healthy dogs 6 weeks of age or older as an aid in preventing canine distemper caused by canine distemper CD virus, infectious canine hepatitis ICH caused by canine adenovirus type 1 CAV-1 , respiratory disease caused by canine adenovirus type 2 CAV-2 , canine parainfluenza caused by canine parainfluenza CPI virus, and canine parvoviral enteritis caused by canine parvovirus CPV. The first vaccination that we give at 6 weeks also includes a protection against corona virus. We keep all of our puppies up-to-date on all of their immunizations and we now give them to our puppies at 6 and 9 weeks, and they should receive their 3rd DAPP vaccination at 12 weeks. Most of you will receive your new puppy at approximately 9 weeks of age and it is important that you take your Frenchie to your vet to receive the rest of the immunizations per schedule. This is only one of the reasons why it is critical to establish a good relationship with a qualified vet as soon as possible. It should be noted that there are many well renown experts in the field who feel that a yearly booster for dogs is excessive since the protection provided by the vaccination lasts several years in many cases and they feel that unnecessary vaccinations can do more harm than good, yet another good reason to establish a positive veterinary relationship. Have More Questions?

For the complete list please see our German Shepherd links page. German Shepherds are excellent family pets. They are loyal and protective of their owners and make great companions for children. The price can fluctuate even more depending on whether the pup is registered with the AKC or not. Purebred German Shepherds that are registered with the AKC typically sell for more money than those that are not. There are many wonderful German Shepherds waiting for homes. Contact the national breed club and ask for breeder recommendations in your area. Good breeders belong to at least one or more of these organizations: 2. A reputable breeder produces puppies with excellent health and temperament; they also take care when matching puppies with new owners. A good breeder will provide you with written documentation that the parents were cleared of hereditary diseases by a veterinary professional. Check online reviews and ratings of German Shepherd breeders in New Hampshire and speak to current and past pet owners before making a decision about which breeder to work with. Ask for a tour of the kennel and make sure all of the parent dogs appear to be clean, healthy, well-behaved and friendly. Make sure you feel comfortable with your breeder and ask as many questions as possible before deciding to buy a puppy from them. A good breeder should want to provide you with all of the information you need and should be available to answer any questions in the future. This can be very helpful because it allows you to see if the parent dogs are well-behaved, friendly towards other people and animals, etc. Breeders who produce healthier pets generally take very good care of them; they spend lots of time socializing the puppies and making sure they are comfortable around new people. If possible, try to observe any interactions between adult dogs at the kennel and young puppies so that you can get a sense of how the breeder raises their puppies. A good breeder wants you to be happy with your new pet and will work with you to answer any questions or address any issues you may have. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in New Hampshire A reputable breeder will have references that you can contact to learn about their experience working with them. Calling the recommended breeders is a great way for you to get in touch with people who have actually interacted with your newly selected German Shepherd breeder. When talking to references, be sure to ask lots of questions. Here are a few ideas: How was your experience working with this breeder? Was your puppy healthy and did it have a good temperament? Was the breeder available for support after you got your puppy? Would you recommend this breeder to others? You should ask if the parents of the puppies are screened for any hereditary diseases at all stages of life. Good breeders will also have their puppies vaccinated and dewormed at an early age. They should also provide you with a health record of your puppy that includes dates of all vaccinations and deworming treatments. Your breeder should also be willing to offer a health guarantee on the puppies. The breeder should be able to provide references from people who have interacted with their kennel. These customer references can give you valuable insight on things like: What was their experience working with this breeder? Would they recommend this breeder to others? How were their interactions with all of the different staff members at the kennel? There are many places you can find a new pet, including animal shelters and rescue groups. That being said, working with a good kennel who is knowledgeable about their breed can make having a new German Shepherd an easy experience for you and your family. If you think that this may be the right breeder for you or if they meet all of our requirements , we encourage you open up your heart and home to one of their lovable pups. Your breeder should have a veterinarian they use and trust. The veterinarian should also do health screenings on the dogs in the kennel and provide routine care for them. There are some unethical breeders who are only interested in making a profit. Some warning signs that you may be dealing with an unethical breeder include: They are not willing to provide references from past customers. They do not health test their parent dogs for genetic diseases. They do not vaccinate or deworm their puppies. They do not have a good veterinarian they use. If you notice any of these red flags, we encourage you to walk away and find a different breeder. German Shepherds make great pets and should only come from a responsible breeder. Asking the breeder about what they know will help you make an informed decision about your dog. The breeder should be willing to share any health tests they have done on the parent dogs, including hip scores and elbow certifications. They should also know if their breeding stock suffers from any genetic illnesses or hereditary problems. Make sure that all of your electrical cords are put away and inaccessible to your puppy. Have a safe place for the puppy to sleep, like a crate or dog bed. Stock up on food, water bowls, toys, and other supplies. Make sure that all family members are prepared to handle training and obedience commands. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to get your new puppy checked out and vaccinated. Be prepared to devote at least 30 minutes each day to exercising and training your new pet. With the right preparation, you and your family can enjoy years of companionship with this wonderful breed. Always take your puppy outside immediately after waking up, eating, drinking water, playing, and resting. Once outside, give your pup about minutes to go potty. Take them outside every 30 minutes or so until they start going potty on their own after only a couple of minutes out there. This will let them know what they are supposed to do while they are still young enough to be easily trained. Puppy Obedience Training Puppy obedience training is also very important and should start as soon as you bring your new pet home. Make sure to use positive reinforcement when teaching your pup basic commands like sit, stay, come, and down. Start with simple commands and then move on to more difficult ones as your puppy masters the basics. With a little bit of hard work, you can have a well-behaved German Shepherd that will be a cherished member of your family for years to come. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. We own 20 acres of land with acres of forest behind us. Please feel free to check our Facebook page for news about StormCloud Long Coated German Shepherds We have been raising both long coat also known as long hair and stock coat German Shepherd Dogs since .Presently, we are breeding large mahogany red with black long coated German Shepherds which have proven to produce stunning puppies that are healthy, beautiful and have a sound and calm temperament. Very Exciting News. The temperaments on these stunning pups will be sound, happy and calm! Absolutely just what to look for in a true German Shepherd Dog! We welcome inquiries about all our dogs. Let us know what you desire in your German Shepherd Dog. Each of the females lends something a little different to each litter. This could be color, different types of temperament, Search and Rescue abilities, etc. We invite you to come and visit us and meet our 'Pack'. Feel free to check our website often as things are ever happening! Great new photos of our Long Coat German Shepherd puppies and adults having a blast! We ship to all 50 states! Hi there. We are climbing Welch-Dickey. All rights reserved. Send email to us at stormcloudshepherds gmail.

This is your chance to thoroughly clean your puppy or dog to remove body oil, dirt, and debris, slather the entire body with products that will promote healthy skin and fur, and use something to control odors and keep your Pug smelling nice. There are some bathing missteps that can actually cause issues such as overly dry skin, skin reactions like itching or rash, or striped fur, and not properly drying your Pug can contribute to skin yeast infections. So, this article will cover the exact steps to successfully bathe a Pug for maximum benefits. How Often a Pug Needs a Bath Most Pugs need to be given a bath once every 3 weeks, even if they appear to be clean and smell just fine. Baths are given at this interval because the body is constantly producing oils that are excreted through the hair follicles. These serve as a natural barrier from external elements and help keep a dog's skin moisturized. But, these do not evaporate; rather, they accumulate. At about the 3-week mark, there is enough body oil on a Pug that skin pores can become blocked and a bad smell can develop if these are not washed away. A bath, done properly, will effectively wash those oils away without stripping the skin and fur, leaving your Pug with a 'clean slate' that will mark the beginning of the 3-week cycle. Another thing that happens during a bath is that loose hairs are freed. And, while the same time interval does not apply to this method of removing dead hairs from a Pug's coat as it does in regard to body oils, it can be advantageous for this to occur every 3 weeks since this can decrease the amount of work you do when brushing the coat to keep shedding under control. Note that you can give your Pug a bath more often than this if the circumstances warrant it; for example, if your Pug rolled around in a muddy puddle or otherwise got so dirty that spot-cleaning won't work or if there are skin issues that require the use of a specialty shampoo. Where to Give a Pug a Bath Young puppies, due to their size and possible fear of water, often do best when given a bath in a kitchen sink. Everything should be removed from the sink and it should be cleaned well and rinsed out. Adult Pugs can also be given baths in a sink, if it is large enough. But, many do best with baths in a bathtub. If the weather is warm enough that an outside water hose will not be too cold, baths can be given outdoors as long as you have a clean area to do so with one option being a small kiddie pool. Supplies Needed When Giving a Bath Of course, just wetting a dog down does not qualify as a bath since it won't accomplish the mission of removing body oils, dirt, and debris and applying products that are good for the skin and coat. So, you will need a few things: 1. A brush or mitt for pre-bath grooming. Since baths will loosen a whole bunch of hairs on this high-shedding breed , it's a good idea to go over the coat right before you give your Pug a bath. This will help keep the amount of hairs freed during the bathing process to a manageable level. Though you can use a slicker brush, you may find that a mitt like the Delomo Enhanced Grooming Glove makes this much easier. And, it's great to be able to accomplish this without having to hold onto anything. The goal is to use something that will cleanse away oils, not just skim over them, and be good for a Pug's skin. At the same time, steer clear of soaping agents as these can be very harsh, causing dryness; instead, opt for plant-based cleansers. Certain additives should be avoided which are known to cause irritation or allergic reactions; this includes synthetic preservatives, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, polyethylene glycol, and artificial perfumes or dyes. In addition, the pH balance should be between 6. Wash-out conditioner. When a dog is given a bath, this triggers the hair cuticles the protective outer layer to open up. This is great, since they can be properly cleansed. But, a wash-out conditioner should then be used to smooth these back down. If not, a Pug's fur will be vulnerable to outside elements that can quickly lead to overly dry fur; it will lose its shine and have an unpleasant straw-like texture. One recommended product is Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Conditioner which does a great job in smoothing down the hair cuticles and is excellent for keeping the skin and fur properly moisturized. A scrub brush. This is optional; however, particularly for adult Pugs, you may find this to be very useful. All fawn Pugs and some black Pugs have very dense double-layered coats. It can be very tiring on the hands to work shampoo all the way down through the thick layers of fur to the skin where it needs to do its job. And, a bath brush can be a great way to snag up all of the hairs that typically become loose when Pugs are given baths. This has uniquely designed rubber tips that are awesome at latching onto dead hairs while offering a pleasant massage, a slip-through hand guide so that your hand doesn't cramp up, and it's very durable. Cotton balls. Though Pugs have folded ears that somewhat help keep out external water, any water that does enter the ears can lead to ear infections. So, it is best to play it safe and loosely place cotton in the opening of the ear canals to act as a barrier. Two thin washcloths and an absorbent towel. One washcloth will be to clean your Pug's face, including around the eye area and wrinkles. The other washcloth will be used to dry your Pug's ears and in between the toes since these two areas are prone to skin yeast infections when moisture is left behind. The towel, as you may have guessed, is to dry your Pug's body. A non-slip mat optional. If you find that your Pug slips and slides around, and particularly if this startled your dog or makes giving baths difficult, place a non-slip mat into the sink or tub before you start to help your Pug keep their footing. Step-by-Step Instructions for Giving a Pug a Bath Prep: 1: Give the coat a good brushing with a slicker brush, grooming glove, or other chosen grooming tool to remove dead hairs. This includes the shampoo, conditioner, bath brush, washcloths, and towel. Bathing Instructions: 1: Fill the tub or sink with 1 to 3 inches of luke-warm water before you place your Pug in. Test the temperature with your inner wrist. You can tear away pieces from a cotton ball to do this. Do not place the cotton deep. Ideally, this is done using a spray nozzle, but if you do not have this option, you can use a small bowl or cup. At first, water may roll off the coat and body oils may prevent water from getting through the coat, so make sure that the coat is thoroughly soaked. You will want to apply this liberally since skimping on the shampoo can lead to only partial cleansing of body oils. Then, use the washcloth to scrub the underbelly and genital area. Using a nozzle works well to reach down through the coat to make sure all the shampoo is appropriately rinsed out with no residue left behind. Use a generous amount to cover all areas of the body. Massage this in for 2 to 5 minutes and then rinse thoroughly. Remove your Pug and allow them to shake to remove excess water. Then, wrap your dog in an absorbent towel, patting and gently rubbing in the direction of the fur growth. Remove the cotton from the ears. Use a thin, clean washcloth to dry the outer ears and the inner ears as far in as you can comfortably go and in between each of the toes. Did you find this article to be helpful? You'll also be able to suggest a topic for us to write about; we always look to Member suggestions. You may also like: Pug Dog Grooming - An overview of every grooming task that needs to be done to keep a Pug clean and well-groomed. Taking Care of a Pug's Teeth - It's very important to keep your Pug's teeth clean and free of plaque. This can usually be accomplished at home if these tasks are done on time. Pug Dog has a Bad Odor - A list of the possible reasons why a Pug may smell bad and exactly how to remedy this. Pug Wrinkle Care - The facial folds of this breed need to be kept clean and dry or yeast infections can develop. Read how to care for the wrinkles and treat possible issues. 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. This square and cobby breed comes in fawn, silver fawn, apricot fawn or black, with a well-defined "mask" on his muzzle. A popular companion dog, the pug also excels in the show ring. They are comfortable in small apartments because they need minimal exercise, but the breed can adapt easily to all situations. The Pug sheds, but its short coat requires little grooming. Grooming A Pug does require regular bathing and grooming. This outgoing and loving little dog can be bathed as frequently as every week up to no more than every six weeks depending on his lifestyle. With this short-coated breed, regular bathing is essential to maintain healthy skin and coat. Lightly card the coat to help accelerate shedding. Once you have selected the best products for your Pug, it is bath time! Use a grooming mitt and massage in a circular motion to stimulate the release of natural oils. This will also aide in the removal of any excess, loose hair. In order to keep the fine, smooth coat in prime condition, it is always beneficial to use a hydrating spray following the bathing and drying process. This allows the skin and coat to lock in moisture to help maintain perfect hydration. General Health Care Prep work is the foundation of all grooming. Prep work includes ear cleaning, nail trimming, anal glands, and proper dental hygiene. Mastering these skills sets the professional pet stylist apart from the rest. Prep work should be done before every bathing and grooming appointment. All dogs need to have their ears checked and cleaned on a regular basis. Proper nail care is also very important. Long, unsightly nails are uncomfortable for the dog, as well as anyone they might jump on. Long nails also compromise the shape of the foot. Trimming the pads of the foot helps give the dog good traction on different surfaces and can minimize the amount of dirt the dog tracks into the house. It also affords the opportunity to treat and condition the paws from cracks and abrasions. Anal glands should also be checked and expressed if they are full. Some caring pet owners prefer to have the anal glands done by their veterinarian. Good dental hygiene is essential for a healthy pet as well. Nutritional Care In order to maintain healthy skin and coat as well as overall health, it is important to provide good nutrition to your dog through a well-balanced diet, vitamins, and healthy treats. Do they require a lot of grooming? If you are not a fan of cutting hair, then you have made the right selection of choosing a Pug. This smooth, short coated, even tempered little dog requires minimal grooming. Regular baths are necessary to help keep this under control. What is a common problem in Pugs? The Pug, like other purebred dogs, has its fair share of health concerns. In general, the eyes, skin, orthopedics, and brain are the primary focal points for health concerns. Corneal Ulcers, Dry Eye, and Proptosis abnormal protrusion or displacement of an eye are more common eye problems in Pugs. They are also prone to several skin issues such as allergies, Demodectic Mange, Staph and Yeast infections, and Celestially which is also known as Walking Dandruff. Do Pugs shed or cause allergies? Pugs do shed quite a bit to their short coat. This breed is probably not the best dog to bring into your home if you suffer from allergies. However, if your heart is set on a Pug, you should spend some time around the breed to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction. Are Pugs good with children? Pugs and children make a great pair. However, there are a few things to be aware of when having a small child and a Pug. Pugs are susceptible to breathing problems and this is compounded in hot weather. Making sure your Pug always has plenty of fresh water and does not over exert themselves is not a natural thing for children to be aware of. And lastly, Pugs will eat anything and everything. A child will need to be taught what a dog should and should not eat. On the positive side, a Pug can be a great playmate and a great companion for a child. What if I have a show dog? Whether you have a show dog or a companion quality dog, the same basic care is given regarding nutrition, socialization, and hygiene. The difference is the conditioning of the dog and conformation training. It is always quite helpful if your breeder can help mentor you to lead you in the right direction upon entering the wonderful world of dog shows. A great place to start is with the national breed club like the Pug Dog Club of America, www. May we suggest.This can be made worse by bathing as things like scented shampoos can act as an irritant, and frequent washes that serve to strip their skin of its natural oils. With that in mind, how often is too often when it comes to bathing your Pug? How often should you bathe a Pug? You should only bathe a Pug every 2 to 6 months in order to maintain a balance between their skin health and hygiene. So, in practical terms, if your Pug gets his coat muddy, and he starts to stink, you need to give them a bath outside of the regular bathing schedule. How to bathe your Pug in 5 simple steps Smaller Pugs can be bathed in a usual bathtub with a shower, but if you have a smaller Pug or a Pug puppy, you can bathe them in a sink with a sink sprayer. I would not bother filling up the tub. This is especially important if your Pug is young, anxious or not a very confident swimmer. This is how you can bathe a pug. Use a specialist dog shampoo Then, get a gentle, soap-free dog shampoo and use your fingers to lather and work the shampoo into the coat. As mentioned, Pugs have extra sensitive skin, which is why a soap-free shampoo is the best option. What is the best shampoo for a Pug smell? It also helps to moisturise their skin, and smells great too. Rinse the shampoo away Rinse the shampoo out and repeat the process as many times as necessary to get all of the dirt out. Give the conditioner no more than two minutes to set and then rinse again thoroughly. Dry your Pug thoroughly To avoid that nasty wet dog smell, you need to dry your Pug completely. Dry your dog with either a towel or a hairdryer on the lowest setting. This is their way to get water off their coat and out of their ears. Additional Pug bathing and washing tips Now you know how to bathe a Pug, I wanted to get into a little bit more detail about how you wash some specific parts of their body in the bath or shower. This includes the outside ear flaps and the corners of the eyes to get rid of any stubborn tear stains. I would do this instead of pouring water on their face — not many dogs like this! Specially made dog ear-cleaning solution contains ingredients that helps to break down and remove wax, as well as anti-bacterial agents that soothes inflammation and prevents infection. You should apply this solution to a damp cotton ball and gentle wipe the inside of the ear use a different cotton ball for each ear in order to prevent spreading infection and check for any injuries, infection, inflammation or scrapes. If you notice something unusual, apply antibiotic ointment and go to your vet in order to seek further advice. If you cut into the quick, this will cause bleeding and extreme pain for your dog. It will also make it incredibly difficult to cut their nails in the future. After cutting the nails, give your Pug a treat so that they have positive associations with the experience. The top layer is thick, waterproof and usually a brown colour, whilst the bottom layer is softer, more sensitive and yet also dense because it acts as an insulator. It is usually white and is more likely to shed during the winter months. Luckily, with Pugs being short-haired breeds, their coat, despite its complexities, is reasonably easy to care for. Brushing: Brush out dirt, prevent shedding and distribute natural oils throughout your Pug by brushing them at least once a week with a bristle brush, a hound grooming glove or or a finer brush if you want to remove excess dirt or hair. Brush your Pug more frequently — up to three times a week — during shedding season. You should also pay attention to any fur around the feet or on the pads of the feet that you might want to trim for tidiness. Freshening up: To keep your Pug clean between baths, doggy dry shampoo is quick and easy to use — you just need to sprinkle it on your dog and then distribute it with a brush. You can also use a spray-on dog conditioner in order to keep the coat looking shiny. Conclusion Although you should always keep in mind the allergies and skin issues that come with owning a Pug, bathing them can be a rewarding bonding experience that helps to keep them squeaky clean, happy, and free from infection! With any dog, it is important to strike that balance between not enough grooming and too-much grooming. Whilst it is important to ensure your dog is clean, tidy and healthy, over-bathing can cause its own issues, making it ultimately more counterproductive. You might also like…. Use luke-warm water, not hot or cold. If your dog is sensitive to sounds, drawing all of the bath water before you bring your dog into the bath may make it a more positive experience for them. A non-slip mat may help your dog feel more secure while you bathe them. Some people find it helps pugs to stay calm if they put some peanut butter on the side of the tub for their dog to lick while they are bathed. Talk to them calmly and positively throughout the experience to make it more positive. Use a dog-specific shampoo. Better safe than sorry! Use a water-safe brush to make sure your dog gets well-shampooed. We had the kong shampoo brush and liked it. If you have a handheld shower attachment using this can help get a really thorough rinse. Use a washcloth or cotton balls to dry out their ears thoroughly after a bath to avoid infections. Thoroughly dry their face wrinkles to avoid infection or irritation. Otherwise, just keep towel drying them. How Often To Bathe Your Pug Opinions on how often pugs should be bathed vary from about every 3 weeks to only once every six months! You want to bathe your pug before they get stinky, but not so often as to dry out their skin. We bathed our pugs monthly, just before we gave their flea medication. Dog Shampoo For Pugs Use a dog-specific shampoo on your dog rather than a human shampoo or soap. The PH levels of human shampoo are different than those formulated for dogs. For a while we lived in an apartment that only had a stand-up shower, and our pugs really disliked the shower head sprinkling down on them. So we would fill a plastic tote with a couple of inches of water and bathe them in there! You could use your kitchen sink if your pug will stay in place well. Even if you have a full sized bath, you may find that bathing puppies can be easier in a sink. Do Pugs Like Baths? Some pugs may enjoy their baths, but mine both disliked them! Regardless of which pug I bathed first, the one that was not getting bathed first would go hide! Frank knew that if Beans was getting a bath now, he was next, and Beans knew the same if she saw Frank getting a bath first. Beans would huff and sigh when I first put her in the bathtub, but would accept her fate. Frank on the other hand, would shake, wimper and cry throughout his bath usually.

We have answers. Give me some fun facts about Labrador Retriever puppies for sale near Virginia Beach! Labrador Retrievers are an iconic breed of dog with a long history that has seen them become one of the most popular breeds on the planet. Fun facts about Labrador Retrievers include that they were bred in the s in Newfoundland, Canada, as a versatile breed for retrieving fishing nets and other water-oriented tasks. They're confident and outgoing dogs, and they're intelligent, with an ability to learn quickly and remember commands for years. Are Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Virginia Beach hypoallergenic? Labrador Retrievers are not considered hypoallergenic. Many people are allergic to dogs that are not hypoallergenic, and the Lab breed is no exception. Its thick, double-layered coat of fur is one likely cause of allergic reactions. By nature, Labs also produce dander, which is composed of microscopic skin cells that can cause allergies. Additionally, the breed has a tendency to drool and shed tremendously, which can also be a trigger for allergies. What's the best dog food for Virginia Beach Labrador Retriever puppies for sale? Labrador Retrievers are energetic, intelligent, and active dogs, so they need a high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs. It's important to look for dog foods specifically designed for these breeds that deliver the appropriate level of proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates. One of the best foods for Labrador Retrievers is a high-quality chicken, rice, and vegetable recipe that offers an optimal balance of nutrition and natural ingredients. Preparation for bringing your new Labrador Retriever home should include a few practical steps. Make sure your home is secure and pet-friendly; add a fence to your backyard to provide a safe and secure outdoor area for your pup to explore. Check for any potential escape routes, such as holes in fences. Stock up on items including food, bowls, leashes and collars, chew toys or other boredom-busters, bedding, and appropriate grooming supplies. Are Labrador Retrievers for sale in Virginia Beach considered small dogs? Labrador Retrievers vary in size, and as a breed they tend to be medium in size; however, some Labradors may appear small due to genetics. The American Kennel Club AKC classifies Labradors as a large breed, and states that their average size ranges from inches tall and pounds. While some individuals may weigh less than 55 pounds, they would still be considered large by breed standards. Do Labrador Retriever puppies near Virginia Beach like to swim? Labrador Retrievers are renowned for loving the water, so yes, they tend to delight in swimming! In fact, it's a great activity for a bonded pair of Lab and owner. This typically goes back to their origins; Labradors were originally bred as water retrievers who could swim for long distances to fetch ducks, bird, and other game. That instinctive affinity for the water has stuck with them! Most Labradors enjoy a good dip, as it is a great way to stay fit and cool in the warmest weather. Are Labrador Retrievers in Virginia Beach good with kids? Yes, Labrador Retrievers are typically known for being very gentle and loyal around kids. They tend to have an outgoing, friendly personality which makes them naturally inclined towards children. They make fantastic family pets as they are patient, reliable, and eager to please. Loyal and intelligent, Labradors are also famously easy to train, which can be a great bonus for parents who would like to teach their children how to properly care for and interact with their pet. The amount of training time required for a Labrador Retriever varies depending on the dog and its specific needs. Generally, it is recommended to dedicate at least two half-hour training sessions each day to achieve the best results. If the training is started when the Labrador is a puppy, it would be beneficial to set aside more time for the sessions. Training should include activities that stimulate them mentally and physically, and should involve positive reinforcement. Additionally, activities such as daily brushing and regular walks to socialize the dog with its environment are recommended. More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. The good folks of Virginia hold the Lab in high esteem. According to Google search statistics, Virginians rank in the 72nd percentile in Internet searches for Labrador retrievers. In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Lab can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: The ten reasons that I am giving for children to have a dog are not listed in order of importance. All of us have different characteristics which we find more important than others. Every reason I list, however, is important to the childhood of your son or daughter. Furthermore, telling a dog to sit, and then watching the dog do what he was told, provides children with tons of confidence. By giving children the confidence needed to consistently practice reading, they become better readers by virtue of the practice. Dog-owning children have fewer sick days off school, and children who own them often have better self esteem. Be sure to read the rest of her seven part article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Lab owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-date puppy information at .Did you know… Chesepians were the first inhabitants of the area now known as Tidewater in Virginia about whom hardly anything is known. They occupied an area which is now the independent cities of Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, and Virginia Beach. In , after a voyage of days, three ships headed by Captain Christopher Newport carrying men and boys made their first landfall in the New World where the Atlantic Ocean meets the southern mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. However, these English colonists of the Virginia Company of London left the area, and created their first permanent settlement at Jamestown. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client!

In this section, we will discuss these considerations, as well as provide useful tips that will make the process of buying a dog litter box easier. It is difficult for you to take your dog outside due to mobility issues. You want to start house-training your puppy. You want to use it during times of inclement weather. You have a dog who has trouble controlling its bodily functions. You are away from home for most of the day. Types of Dog Litter Boxes Conventional Litter box These are recognizable litter boxes, as well as those that are simple in design and use. Certain ones can be used for cats and other animals as well, but what makes this useful for a dog is the three high sidewalls and a side that is a low entry. They are not filled with traditional litter but instead, paper pellets made out of recycled newspaper. The conventional litter box is usually more affordable and easy to clean and comes in a variety of sizes. On the downside, you will have to keep changing the pellets out so they do not become odorous from urine. Plastic Crates These have a floating grate along the bottom, where urine drains through onto an absorbent pad and any solid waste will sit on the top which will have to be removed and discarded. If they have sides, they are usually not that high. Real Grass Dogs love to do their business on real grass, so these litter boxes provide a patch of live grass that is held in place by a low-walled cardboard box. The box will most likely be lined to prevent liquids from saturating the cardboard, allowing it to last longer. You do have to water the grass to keep it lush, and it will last approximately one to two weeks, depending on how often your dog uses it. You will have to clean the grass of the solid waste, but the urine will be absorbed by the dirt. These systems tend to be on the pricier end. Considerations Cost: We always want to provide the best for our pets, but most of us are on a budget and need to take into account the expense of a dog litter box, as well as the continued cost of replacing grass, pellets, or absorbent pads. Dog size: The size of your dog will determine the size of the box you need to purchase. Dogs like to circle before they go to the bathroom so they will need adequate space to move around. Most systems are ideal for small to medium-sized dogs. Materials: You will want a system that is durable and holds up to frequent use. If you have a puppy who likes to chew, keep the type of material in mind. Design: If you have a puppy or a smaller breed, a high-sided box may be difficult for them to get in and out of. Some surfaces are easier to wipe down than others, and with certain systems, there are options to purchase liners separately. Tips A dog litter box should be functional, hygienic, and comfortable for your dog to use. Consider features such as drainage holes and waste trays. Some dogs may not like to use a litter box, especially if they were not introduced at a young age. If your dog prefers to urinate by lifting a leg, it may miss the litter box entirely. Training guides are beneficial when introducing a box to your dog. Did you know the border collie, the Havanese, and the miniature schnauzer are some of the easiest dogs to train? We offer complete guides for these breeds — check them out below:. Also, we listed 12 of our favorite dog litter boxes in every group to help you narrow down your choices. But first, we are going to talk about whether you should use a dog litter box and how to choose the right one for your pup. There is nothing wrong with letting your pup go to the bathroom when he needs to instead of waiting for you to get home every day. Here are some situations when it would be a good idea: Pup Parents Who Have Mobility Issues For those who have trouble getting around, letting your pooch in and out to go potty can be a tremendous chore. For example, if you are recovering from an illness or injury, you may have to limit your dog to once a day, which is not good for his bladder or kidneys. Dogs with Bladder Trouble or Aging Dogs Another issue that can be a problem is if your older pup cannot get around as well as he used to. Or if he is injured or sick. Also, some dogs have trouble controlling their bladder for certain health or emotional reasons. A litter box, in this case, is furfect too. Puppies Being Housebroken Training your new puppy to control when and where he relieves himself is also a great time to use a dog litter box. Rather than using a puppy pad, which can leak or move around, get stepped on, etc. Bad Weather Areas If you happen to be in an area where it snows or rains often, you may not want your pooch going in and out. This is a good time to pull out the dog litter box and let him relieve himself in the safety and comfort of his own home. Those Who Live in Apartments Dog parents who live in apartments are at a disadvantage as far as how to let their pooch in and out to relieve himself. For instance, if you happen to live on the 2nd or 22nd floor and all you have is a balcony, you would have to take the stairs or elevator down and then find a place to take your pup where he can go. A dog litter box would be pawfect. There are many different kinds, from a small plastic box just like for cats to the huge extravagant 4-foot porch potty with a sprinkler system. Here are some of the choices according to our preference, from the most recommended to the least. Your pup will love the smell and may even decide to eat some. However, these are typically just a small pad of grass, and since it is real, it will end up dying eventually, meaning you will need another one every few weeks. Artificial Grass Patches: A patch of synthetic grass is our second choice. Real grass may be a good idea for some pet parents, but having to replace it once or twice a month can add up. Artificial turf works great for football and baseball fields so it will be just as good for most pups. It will not die and you can wash and reuse it over and over. Puppy Pad Holders: Because puppy pads are just large pieces of paper, they are not ideal for many reasons. They leak, move around, and your dog can tear them up. If you have a puppy pad holder, it is much easier and cleaner. Plastic Grates: Plastic grates are another option because your puppy can pee on them and it will go down onto the puppy pad underneath. His feet stay nice and dry and all you have to do is replace the pad once a day. However, this is not optimal for poop, which does not go through the grates. Plastic boxes: Just like a regular cat litter box, these plastic boxes work the same way but without the kitty litter. Some have higher walls, others have recycled paper pellets or other natural substances to soak up the urine, but you will have to change it often to avoid major odors. You also need to check how easy it is to clean, the cost of maintaining it, and how good the warranty is. A litter box for a Great Dane, for example, would be massive and hard to keep clean. The average dog litter box is about 20 inches long and 18 inches wide. If your pup is much larger than that, you may want to reconsider. The Mechanism: You have to clean some boxes every time your dog uses them, while others you can clean once a day. They even have a few that are self-cleaning! The ones with natural grass need to be replaced often, and if he poos on it, you will need to pick it up and dispose of it. Others use a grate with a pad underneath, and some just hold puppy pads. Material: You have to decide whether a natural grass, artificial turf, plastic grate, actual litter box, or puppy pad holder is best. This depends on both you and your dog. If he will not go on anything but real grass and you are determined to keep him inside, you will have to get real grass. If you have ever watched your pup out in the yard digging holes, the real grass dog litter box may not be right for him. It will not last very long if he digs into his new patch of grass like he would in the yard. You need something durable that he is not going to dig holes in or chew up. Ease of cleaning: The self-cleaning or disposable litter boxes are the easiest to clean, although they are also the most costly. Puppy pad holders are easy since all you have to do is toss and replace the pad. Plastic turf, real litter boxes, and grates have to be cleaned often. Cost Of Maintenance: The most expensive dog litter box is the one that you have to replace often real grass. You will need to buy a lot of litter for the litter box types. And for the others, it is just a matter of replacing a pad or washing off the plastic. Warranty: Many of those made with real grass or the disposable ones will not have a warranty because they are only made to last a couple of weeks. The plastic ones often come with a day warranty but not much longer than that. After all, your dog will be urinating and defecating in it so returning it would be unsanitary. Our Review For 12 Best Dog Litter Boxes After reviewing more than 30 dog litter boxes using our above mentioned criteria, we chose 12 that we think are some of the best on the market with the most important features. We even classified them to help you narrow down the choices. Features: Spacious interior, ramp entry, built-in handle Good For: Older and mobility-limited cats The same features that keep dogs out of the litter box can make it difficult for older cats to access it. This dome-shaped litter box features a spacious interior and a gently sloping internal ramp entry perfect for small kittens and senior cats alike. With its .The ramp consumes some of the litter bed area, but the domed top may make this model feel less confining for claustrophobic cats than the standard covered litter box. While toy-breed dogs may be able to walk into this litter box just as easily as your cat, the design seems to be effective in most cases. Puppies sometimes mimic this behavior, though most grow out of it once they discover that food tastes much better. But why do some adult dogs eat cat poop straight from the litter box? And should you be worried about it? Dog breath is bad enough, but snacking from the little box ups the grossness factor. Eating cat poop also comes with the potential to expose your dog to harmful bacteria and parasites — some of which can be transmitted to humans, like toxoplasmosis or salmonella. The bits of cat litter a dog might consume along with the feces can be problematic as well. Changing your litter box could be the key to keeping your dog out. High Sides Basic litter pans have short walls which enable your cat to access the box from all sides. With no barrier to entry, however, these litter boxes offer optimal snacking opportunities for your dog. High sides make it a little bit harder for your dog to get at the goodies inside the box. Most high-sided litter boxes have lower entry points for cat accessibility. This might be enough for some dogs to reach in, so you may need to combine a high-sided litter box with other solutions. Cover Enclosed or covered litter boxes may be more effective against large dogs than high-sided boxes. While covered litter boxes are great for odor and scatter control, some cats dislike the feeling of being confined while they do their business. Translucent tops and clear doors may help mitigate this concern. Top-Entry Design Top-entry litter boxes combine the security of a covered litter box with high dog-stopping sides. Rather than stepping into the litter box, your cat drops down through an opening in the lid. Consider the interior space when selecting a top-entry litter box, as these tend to be more confining than open-style litter pans. Big breeds like Maine Coons may find top-entry litter boxes uncomfortable. The downside of automatic litter boxes is that they tend to be expensive. The longer the delay before cleaning, the more opportunity your dog will have to sneak in and steal a snack. Ultimately, the best way to prevent your dog from eating cat poop is to scoop the litter box before it becomes an issue. Top-entry litter boxes and models with high sides can be a challenge for kittens and older cats — especially those suffering from arthritis. Some cats feel claustrophobic in covered litter boxes while others find the added privacy comforting. A baby gate raised a few inches off the floor will keep your dog at bay while your cat can slink underneath. Help us do better! Was this article helpful and relevant? Yes What can you say about this article? I am completely satisfied, I found useful information and tips in this article Article was somewhat helpful, but could be improved Want to share more? I'd like to receive regular cat care tips, news, and more. Send the Feedback Thank You for the feedback! We work to make the world a better place for cats, and we're getting better for you. Kate is also a blogger for a number of organic and natural food companies as well as a columnist for several pet magazines. Thoughtful features, like the night light What We Don't Like Takes up a lot of space Expensive The Whisker Litter-Robot 4 is not merely an iterative improvement on our former "Best Overall" automatic litter box, the Litter-Robot 3 Connect, but a comprehensive upgrade. In lab testing—and throughout weeks of follow-up testing with real cats in a home setting—our testers expressed repeated admiration for various features, design improvements, and their overall experience using the Litter-Robot 4. It's hard not to boggle at the litter robot's high price, but Whisker has pulled out all the stops to justify the premium cost with a premium user experience. It begins with an incredibly easy setup since the Litter-Robot 4 arrives fully assembled in the box—all you need to do is plug it in and download the Whisker app which is synced using a QR code on the back of the device. But the first thing you're likely to notice about the Litter-Robot 4 is its design, which stacks a wide-open, circular entrance atop a more square base. It's a significant improvement on the previous version of the Litter-Robot, which has a narrow entryway more than five inches narrower. The entrance to the litter box looks inviting, even intriguing, with our home tester confirming that cats are more than willing to interact with the futuristic-looking device. After your cat uses the bathroom, the interior sphere performs a slow barrel roll, dumping the litter through a sieve that pulls out solid waste and returns the clean litter back to its original position. The clumps of kitty litter are then dumped into a reservoir tray underneath. Sensors in the entrance track both motion and weight, ensuring that the Litter-Robot never begins a cleaning cycle with a cat inside. This allows it to measure how much waste is sifted, and even create custom data for multiple cats, since it can differentiate them by weight. The only precaution needed is for kittens under 3 pounds, but you can disable the automatic sifter and instead use a button to manually clean until your cat is grown up enough to register. The control panel on the Litter-Robot 4 features big, colorful buttons, though the wide variety of settings and cleaning options can make for a bit of a learning curve. In addition to a power button, there are buttons for "Cycle," "Reset," "Empty" and WiFi "Connect," with each button performing multiple functions. For example, the Cycle button initiates a cleaning, or you can hold down the button for three seconds to activate a "Sleep Mode," ensuring a cleaning cycle won't be activated for eight hours. A big, friendly light bar beneath the buttons delivers a wide range of information, indicating when a function has been paused, or even when a cat has spent too long inside the machine. It's pretty intuitive, but a little overwhelming at first—one tester mistakenly emptied all of the litter, rather than initiating a standard clean. Cleaning the Litter-Robot 4 was also a cinch. The bags used in the reservoir are tall enough that even an over-stuffed reservoir is easy to empty—simply lift up the edges of the bag and use that extra height to tie it off. There's a QR code on the bottom of the reservoir that provides a retail link for easily purchasing new bags, smell filters, and even litter but it doesn't require proprietary litter, and worked great with our generic, store-bought litter. Photoshopped Indoor Potty Systems This Omeuamigo potty tray may seem like a good option at first glance until you realize that the featured pictures are photoshopped. Additionally, this product has very few reviews, and the ones that do exist are fairly negative. Some dog litter boxes come with a material inside for absorbing liquids while others require you to select the filler of your choice. Litter: The traditional choice of cat owners, regular litter can also be used with doggos. You can sift litter, making it easy to clean, but dogs will often end up tracking it around the house. And some puppers may even be inclined to chew or eat it. We really only include it to be thorough. Consider the size of your dog. Choose between disposable vs reusable options. Think about how you will clean the litter box. Figure out your budget. However, if you do have some disposable income to throw at the problem, you can consider fancy options, such as self-cleaning models. Some of the most common situations in which they may help include: Owners with mobility issues. Dogs with bladder-control issues. Some dogs simply have more trouble holding it than others — particularly small breeds with tiny bladders. While belly bands may provide some help with this issue for male dogs, an indoor bathroom facility will often be more convenient to use. Owners living in high-rise apartments. Even if you have an elevator, bathroom trips are still quite an ordeal. Young puppies going through the house-breaking process. Not only do they help teach your dog that there are right and wrong places to relieve themselves, they also help contain the inevitable messes that accompany the process. Owners who live in areas with inclement weather. If you live in an area with long, cold winters or sweltering summers, you may find a litter box or some other type of indoor potty to be very helpful. Owners who are away from the home for long periods of time. While it is never ideal to leave your dog alone for lengthy periods of time, it is sometimes unavoidable. Indoor potty spots help keep your dog from having to sit cross-legged all day long, waiting for you to get home. Dogs who are recovering from illness or injury. If your dog has been battling illness or recovering from an injury, your vet may recommend keeping him as calm, quiet and still as possible. By utilizing an indoor bathroom of some type, you can reduce the number of trips your dog needs to take outdoors. Dogs who are afraid of the outdoors. If your is dog scared of going outside , you may want to try an indoor potty while trying to build his confidence. It is also worth mentioning that most litter-box-style products work better with smaller dogs than larger dogs. Nevertheless, many owners of dogs in the to pound range find indoor bathrooms effective. Having a backup potty option can provide you with valuable peace of mind and is worth considering if you have the space. In the event that your dog does need to go inside, at least it will be in a contained space. Most litter boxes and indoor bathrooms are appropriate for 1 or 2, although some handle poop better than others. Keep in mind that litter boxes are not designed to completely eliminate trips outside — they are designed to reduce the number of trips you must take. Accordingly, most owners still take their dog out to poop once or twice a day, and primarily use the litter box as a place to tinkle. Unfortunately, dog urine can contain leptospirosis bacteria which is zoonotic, meaning it could be passed on to people and other species. Make sure your pooch is safe and secure so that you can focus your attention on thoroughly addressing the mess. Remove as much waste as possible. Be sure to check out some of these dog poop disposal ideas before you settle on a solution. Immediately cleaning up doo-doo is doubly essential if your dog has a bad habit of eating dog poop — yikes! Rinse down the potty with hot water. Rinse or wipe out any residue using hot water. Make sure you get rid of disposable potties as needed. Puddle Spread to your floor? Here are some strategies that might make it easier for Fido to go inside. Bring the outside in. If possible, it may be helpful to bring this plant inside and place it on top of the indoor potty. It could be enough of a cue for your furry friend. Place the potty near the door. If your pooch is used to going outside, placing the indoor potty near the door may make for an easier transition for Fido. You can also try bringing the indoor potty outside, have your dog go on the potty outside, and then move the potty inside. A potty trained pooch may not understand that he can go on the indoor dog potty. You could try leashing up your pooch and taking him on a walk around your home, only to stop for sniffing by the dog potty. Praise your pooch! Whenever you do catch your dog using the indoor dog potty, be sure to reward with lots of praise and treats. Try another texture. Some dogs may naturally take to one potty type over another. You may have to tinker with different potty styles before landing on the ideal solution for your furry friend. Typically a bathroom in the main portion of your house is the best option. What kind of litter is best for dogs? Some pet parents have success with paper pellets, while others prefer clay litter or dog-safe wood shavings. Try out small batches of litter to see what works best for your dog. Is litter box training a dog a good idea? Litter training your dog is helpful if you often work long hours or if your dog struggles to hold his bladder. An indoor pottying area like a litter box offers your pup a place to safely and comfortably do his business without ruining your floors or furniture. Is there a dog version of a litter box? Yes, there are several dog litter boxes available, ranging from the standard bins you may envision for a cat to those that are more pad-like in design. Each has its own list of pros and cons to consider. The most important aspect is to choose a dog litter box that works for your pup to ensure he actually uses it. Can dogs learn to use a litter box? Yes, dogs can learn to use a litter box like a cat. When he potties in the litter box, offer praise. Lather, rinse, and repeat until he happily trots over on his own to do his business every time. How did it work for you? Was your dog comfortable using it, or did he fail to understand the point? Like it? Share it!

View fullsize Both our chocolate Labradoodle and our Poodle are beautiful dogs with excellent temperaments. They are our family pets. Because we begin with a Labradoodle and a Poodle, rather than a Lab and a Poodle, our puppies are much more likely to have the non-shedding Poodle coat. A F1b Labradoodle has been back-crossed to a poodle in an effort to insure a non-shedding coat. Even though most f1b Labradoodles shed very little or not all, it is impossible to guarantee that any dog even doodles or purebred poodles will not shed at all. Hypo- means less hypothermia is having a lower than normal body temperature. No dog can be said to be completely non-allergenic. Studies have shown that doodles are less likely to cause allergies, particularly f1b doodles. The ideal is to keep as much of the Lab head shape and super-friendly personality as possible while getting the non-shedding Poodle coat as well as the dignified, less vocal characteristics of the Poodle. Our Labradoodle methodology is quite simple. First, we get quality dogs. This is why we wanted to have pick of the litter for our Labradoodle and our Poodle and why we only obtained puppies from reputable breeders that we knew we could trust. Second, we try to treat our dogs Labradoodle and Poodle well. We feed our Labradoodle and Poodle high quality food with plenty of protein, and give them wonderful socialization and opportunities for exercise. We have 12 acres along the Enoree River with trails, additional property next to a Greenville state park, and property on Lake Hartwell giving us the opportunity to take the dogs kayaking. We recognize the importance of socializing young Labradoodle puppies so they will not be fearful as they mature. Our Labradoodle puppies have lots of opportunities to play with our children, and water games are definitely on top of the list. Labradoodles love the water and so do my kids, as you can see below. Third, we try to find appropriate families for our Chocolate Labradoodle puppies. To learn more about our process, check out this resource that gives a step-by-step guide between the application to receiving your puppy! A Chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle is not for everyone, and a puppy is not for everyone. If your family is not prepared for a Labradoodle puppy financially, time investment, etc. When can you get your puppy? Because we have only one Labradoodle mother and a couple guardian homes , puppies are available only occasionally. Contact us nathan crockettdoodles. We have a flexible waiting list and offer your deposit back if we do not have the ideal Labradoodle puppy for you within a certain window of time. Sometimes with mini Labradoodles we prefer to wait until they are a little older than 8 weeks because accidents tend to happen more easily with really small puppies. We will take several pictures of you with your Labradoodle puppy. We will send you the pictures for free place them on a USB thumb drive for you , and you will have full copyright privileges to all of the pictures to use at your discretion. You have the option of whether or not the photos appear here on the ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Although we never ship puppies, we will sometimes personally deliver puppies for a reasonable fee. Why should you consider getting a Chocolate Labradoodle from us? If a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy is right for your family, and if you are within driving distance of Greenville, SC, you may want to consider getting a chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle from us. If you read our Labradoodle puppy methodology and like what you read, you should consider adopting one of our puppies. We have a three-year health guarantee on each of our puppies if the forever home continues to feed TLC one year health guarantee on all others. How can you get a Chocolate Labradoodle or Labradoodle mini from us? If you think your family would be a good match for one of our Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppies, then start the conversation by emailing us at nathan crockettdoodles. You will have full access to all pictures and hold the copyright to make as many pictures as you desire. You keep all the pictures. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality collar. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality leash. We give you a bag of high quality dog food. We believe that you should give your new Labradoodle puppy or mini Labradoodle puppy the best food. Instructional materials about crate training and house training. Our goal is to do everything we can to assist in the house training and crate training process. A Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy or any puppy cannot be completely reliable in the house until the puppy is about 6 months old. The simple point is that no matter what some breeders tell you you will be partially involved in the house training process unless you buy an older Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle , but we want to help you with that process. A one-year health guarantee; extended to three years for all who continue to feed TLC. We are concerned with finding really good homes for our Labradoodle and mini Labradoodle puppies. Labradoodle Color To see a list of available colors, check out this page. At ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Ultimately we cannot completely control the color of puppies. Even though chocolate is the most desirable color, we sometimes have puppies of other colors even occasional merles. These puppies, will of course, also make excellent pets. These non-chocolate Labradoodle puppies are also available to great families, but we know that Chocolate Labradoodles are the most desirable. The Labrador Retriever has a short coat that sheds. By breeding the F1 Labradoodle back to an unrelated Poodle, the chances of getting the highly desirable non-shedding Poodle coat increase exponentially. Some F1B Labradoodles are bred back another time to a Poodle in an effort to guarantee a Poodle coat. If high quality dogs are chosen to breed that have the head shape of a Labrador Retriever it is possible to get a puppy that is very similar in many ways to a Labrador, but has the beautiful non-shedding Poodle coat. Both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are highly intelligent dogs, helping Labradoodles excel in smarts, train-ability, and a general desire to always please their owner. If you desire a family-friendly, kid loving, medium energy dog that is comfortable inside or outside, that loves the water and the land, you should definitely consider a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle. For more info about Labradoodle puppies or mini Labradoodle puppies, please email nathan crockettdoodles. Check out our sister site miniLabradoodlePuppies. We specialize in Chocolate Labradoodles and mini Labradoodles, but often we have other colors as well. Occasionally someone travels from Atlanta, Columbia, Raleigh-Durham or Knoxville, but our proximity to North Carolina and the popularity of Labradoodles in North Carolina make Charlotte and Asheville our most serviced locations. We also have some who are interested from distant states, but we primarily serve the Southeast U. Their incredible versatility of an easily trainable and adoring temperament as well as their social nature make them a perfect family pet. These beautiful, miniature versions are also commonly referred to as Australian Labradoodles, Mini Labradoos, and Mini Labrapoodles. The Mini Labradoodle is the smaller version of the equally amazing Standard Labradoodle that is a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Labrador, both purebred dogs. The standard-sized versions were bred to be guide dogs, and this trait is dominant in Mini Labradoodles as well. This designer breed is a dog of many talents. Mini Labradoodles are highly intelligent, affectionate, and as loving as can be. They can be trained for a myriad of dog jobs, and are quite the athletes when it comes to dog sports. Appearance and Grooming With two very different parent breeds, it can be difficult to know what each puppy will look like. Some litter pups take on more characteristics of the Poodle parent and others take after the Labrador more. Their low-shedding coat may resemble that of a Poodle : long, curly, and thick, or they may have fur that resembles that of a Labrador: short, straight, and dense with color variations of black, brown, chocolate, cream, golden, silver and white. This breed has a double coat which may require daily brushing depending on the thickness. They will also need regularly scheduled professional grooming appointments every 4 to 6 weeks. The size of Mini Labradoodles can vary quite a bit as well since they are a crossbreed of different-sized dogs. They may be smaller or larger depending on who they take after more. The typical size for these cuties is 14 to 16 inches tall with a weight of 16 to 25 pounds for a full-grown Mini Labradoodle. With both parent breeds being family-friendly, happy-go-lucky breeds, it is no surprise that this puppy will have the same fun-loving nature. Family and Companionship Perfect for families with children of all ages, the Mini Labradoodle is certain to fit in anywhere. This sweet dog will need plenty of love and attention, so staying away for long periods of time is not ideal for the overall emotional health of this breed. Because of their smaller size, they can thrive in all environments, be it a city apartment or in a rural setting with lots of lands. Keep in mind that your puppy will need lots of exercise and play so make sure you have plenty of places to let them run and sniff. Exercise Taking on the energetic tendencies of both parents, the mini Labradoodles are extremely active dogs who enjoy going for walks, running, and even swimming much like the Poodle. Like the Retriever, they love to play and retrieve things. Be prepared to keep them busy and spend at least an hour of active playtime with them each day. They can be pretty active chewers and seekers of mischief, so giving them something to play with is imperative. Training and Socialization Inheriting the intelligence of the Poodle parent will not only make this dog super trainable but also a wonderful option for a service or therapy dog. Its natural intuition makes it easily adaptable to people and places. However, it is very important to begin training the moment you bring your mini Labradoodle puppy home. You should start exposing it to new places, people, and other dogs as early as possible. Early socialization is paramount in the overall wellness of this unique breed. They are happy and healthy dogs that have amazing personalities. Our Mini Labradoodle breeders as well as our Puppy Agents interact with these pups daily to ensure they are socialized early and ready for their transition to your home. How big will my Miniature Labradoodle get? They will grow to a height between 21 to 23 inches and weigh between 55 to 80 lbs. What is the life expectancy of a Miniature Labradoodle? The average life expectancy is 10 to 12 years. What is the appearance of a Miniature Labradoodle? What is the temperament of a Miniature Labradoodle? They are spirited animals with a zest for adventure. They are full of love and affection and devoted to their humans. They have a playful and sometimes rambunctious side so creating boundaries and providing proper exercise will be important to keep these little ones in shape and out of mischief. Is the Miniature Labradoodle a good choice for first time dog owners? In fact, they are a perfect match for first time dog owners as they are super intelligent and easily trainable. They start learning at a very young age. Should I socialize my Miniature Labradoodle puppy? Though it is always important to socialize your puppy, please do so in safe places until the puppy has received all of its vaccinations. These little ones love people, but can exhibit a protective nature. Proper socialization will bring out the best of their sociable, easy-going temperament. How much exercise will my Miniature Labradoodle require? These are lively little pups with energy to spare they will need to have 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous activity per day, including walks and active play. Playtime and mental stimulation such as training exercises and interactive toys are recommended as well. How much food will my Miniature Labradoodle require? This breed is prone to obesity and bloating so proper nutrition must be shown from puppy and throughout adulthood. Because the sizes of these dogs vary so widely so will the amount of food they should get. Talk with your veterinary care provider about getting your little one on the right track. What type of coat does the Miniature Labradoodle have? Miniature Labradoodle coats come in many different colors and textures. They could have a shorter, double Labrador coat or a long, curly Poodle coat. Most of the time they fall somewhere in between while still showcasing those distinctive Poodle curls. What colors are the Miniature Labradoodles? They come in several solid colors including yellow, golden, chocolate, black, blue, brown, gray, and white. How often will my Miniature Labradoodle need to be groomed? This is a fairly high maintenance breed that requires frequent, brushing and regular trimming. They are excellent family pets, especially for active families. They are full of love and devotion and are always up for a new adventure. They do great with children. Is the Miniature Labradoodle hypoallergenic? Though not a fully hypoallergenic, they are a great choice for anyone that suffers from allergens. The AKC does not recognize mixed breeds. Mini Labradoodle Reviews. Life Span Did You Know? Second-generation crosses could include a Labradoodle and a Mini Poodle or two Mini Labradoodles as parents. This hybrid dog breed was originally developed to create smaller potential service dogs that might be a good fit for people with allergies to dog fur. With a mixed breed, you can end up with any combination of traits from the parent breeds. Often, Mini Labradoodles are smart, friendly, and sociable dogs that are highly trainable. They are often found working as service dogs and therapy dogs and living as beloved family companions. Although they are not recognized by the AKC, the Mini Labradoodle is recognized by other canine registries. A Mini Labradoodle is a combination of two friendly dog breeds that crave human affection and are always happy to have company. These dogs also tend to have playful, energetic personalities and low prey drives. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their smaller size, these dogs can be injured by accidental rough play or accidental falls, so any interactions between young kids and puppies should be closely supervised. Miniature Labradoodles will usually bark to alert you when someone is at the door, but generally are not prone to nuisance barking unless they have been trained into it. It may not be a bad idea to train your dog to stop barking early on. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles may be initially wary of strangers, but tend to warm up quickly and will often be happy to make a new friend. Miniature Labradoodles are highly adaptable. Provided they get enough exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, they can adapt well to apartments as well as larger homes. They tend to do best in moderate climates, but can tolerate warmer or colder climates. As with any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Although they tend to have a fluffier coat, they are also smaller and may need to bundle up in some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks in the cold. Mini Labradoodles are also very much companion breeds. They bond closely with their families and thrive on being near them, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. The health of the parents and good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Mini Labradoodle puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done to help allay any concerns you may have. Miniature Labradoodles tend to be highly intelligent and eager to please. This generally makes them easy to train and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. In fact, their parent breeds are considered some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. These dogs respond best to consistent training and positive reinforcement. Puppy training classes can ensure that owners of any experience level learn the latest training techniques and start building a strong bond with their puppy. Grooming requirements with a Mini Labradoodle can vary. On the Poodle side, you have a low-shedding, but high-maintenance, coat that needs daily brushing along with trimming and grooming every weeks. On the Lab side, you have a higher shedding coat that is more low-maintenance, requiring some weekly brushing or brushing a few times a week and intermittent bathing. Overall, Mini Labradoodles range from having a non- to low-shedding coat. They can have one coat type or the other, or a combination of both of them. So, you will want to be prepared for brushing a coat a few times a week and the possibility of more grooming needs. Regardless of coat type, there are some other general grooming tasks you can count on. Regular dental care for your dog will help prevent serious dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay later in life. This is especially important for dog breeds with floppy ears as they are more prone to developing ear infections. Miniature Labradoodles can be high-energy dogs. In general, they require daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity to be happy and healthy. Since they love to be around their family and can have an exuberant and outgoing personality, they will likely be up for more playtime if you are. This little dog may get tired more easily at times and could push themselves too far in their excitement. On the other hand, they may just keep going and going with no signs of slowing down. What is most important is making sure your Miniature Labradoodle gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. Fully-grown Mini Labradoodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Miniature Labradoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Labradoodle Article.

pug cross boston terrier puppies for sale - If you would like to have the puppy held for you, make a deposit online. You are certainly welcome to select your puppy this way without a deposit, but please note that availability may change on a daily basis. If you come and see the puppy, make your purchase and take the puppy home if the puppy is 8 weeks old or older. Skip to 6, unless you need to arrange travel for your pup. Connect with us and we will get the right information to deliver the puppy to you and set up the exact date and time. Enjoy the new puppy that you have adopted into your family. If you have any questions, please reach out to the breeder for help! How much is a Golden Retriever puppy, and why do the prices on the website vary? The price depends on the credentials of the parents and the number of puppies available at the time. This allows you to set up an appointment that fits both your schedule and that of our breeders. Our golden retriever puppies are all raised by families in the Northeast Ohio area, conveniently located about an hour and a half from both Cleveland and Columbus. This makes it easy to come visit our puppies and spend time playing with them in a home environment. How can I get puppy travel arranged if I am out of state? A little-known fact about golden retriever puppies is that they actually do very well with travel. Check out our puppy travel page here to find out more about how we go the extra mile. How do you raise your dogs? When buying a golden retriever puppy, the people who bred and raised them can have a big impact on the health and sociability of the dog! Because of this, we are dedicated to choosing caring, dedicated golden retriever breeders in Ohio who will get your pup started on the right track. Our small network of breeders in Ohio all are dedicated to the same principles. This starts by providing carefully-planned breedings to ensure the best pedigree for our pups. They raise healthy, socialized pups that can make a smooth transition to a new home. Most of our breeders actually have young children at home who help raise the puppies and play with them so they can become socially adjusted. How do I leave a review of my Golden Retriever experience? House-trained, Story You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. June Carter is now ready to find her forever home!!! June and her brother Johnny Cash were born on October 10, and are now almost 6-month. Shortly after arrival June and Johnny became very sick and tested positive for Parvo virus. After supportive care and meds both fought off the illness and began to grow and thrive. She loves to play and run with her brother and foster siblings. She is an active big pup and loves being outside. She can be a little bossy with her food and toys and is more dominant then her brother. She would love to go on adventures, have another dog to play with, and perhaps become a running and biking companion. She is a beautiful girl, and he will quickly bond with a new person. She is eager to please and is wanting a human companion who loves having adventures!!!! Apply today at laramieanimals. We do not place animals on hold. Also pending approval, you will receive contact information, so that you may inquire about the personalities of specific animals.


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pug cross boston terrier puppies for sale - How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. However, it is still advised to ask for a senior-specific diet from your vet or pet nutritionist just to be safe. If you choose to give your German Shepherd dog homemade foods in all of its life stages, you may need to self-calculate and monitor its daily calorie consumption. Feeding German Shepherds has numerous factors to consider. How much you are providing them is crucial, but knowing how often you need to feed them is essential, too. Initially, feeding German Shepherd puppies begins with four puppy food meals daily. Then gradually, it should be transitioned into three equally proportioned meals a day at two months old. This gradual change should go on until they are 12 months old. After that, they should eat twice a day naturally during adulthood. Young puppies have a faster metabolism compared to adult dogs. In general, the last meal of your puppy for the day should be hours before its bedtime, so they have enough time to digest the food before they go to sleep. As for transitioning puppies to adult German Shepherds, the three meals should be given in the morning, noon, and nighttime, so they may be provided with a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is crucial for their growth, especially if they are active and working dogs. Having a feeding schedule can also help monitor their food intake to avoid weight-related issues. The optimal feeding time for adult and senior German Shepherds would be during the morning and night for their two meals daily. Lastly, as owners, we must seldom give treats to our German Shepherds, preferably only during training. Too much of anything may be bad for your dog. Moreover, it should provide the sufficient nutrients needed for growth and development. There are many commercial dog foods in the market, but you can also offer your GSD puppy homemade dog food or a raw diet. Consulting a vet is strongly advised to give your German Shepherd the best diet suited for its lifestyle. To help you in this dilemma, the list below has dog food options you may want to consider offering to your GSD puppy: Dry Food: Dry food or kibble is a commercial food widely available in pet stores and dog food manufacturers. A number of dry foods are formulated to provide a balanced diet for dogs, but checking their nutritional guidelines and value is crucial since a German Shepherd puppy may need high carb foods. It can be mixed with their dry kibble to add water or moisture to their diet. These kinds of commercial foods are expensive and can spoil quickly, and they may not be enough if fed alone to your puppy. BARF Diet: Biologically Appropriate Raw Food is a type of diet that consists of raw meat, raw eggs, crushed animal bones, fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and other natural ingredients. Raw feeding is given as a substitute for processed foods with preservatives. We know a German Shepherd is a large breed dog. However, males tend to grow bigger and heavier than females, needing more food consumption. A German Shepherd puppy may need to eat at frequent schedules with smaller meals, while adult ones may not need to be fed much often but will need more significant meal portions each time. They tend to eat whatever falls from the dinner table or even whatever food they set their sights on. As we talk about food diets, we must not forget those foods you must avoid feeding your German Shepherd puppy. Generally, they may not be too sensitive to dog foods or ingredients, but other foods may be fatal to them. Coffee is one of the most toxic foods to dogs. They contain caffeine , which causes cardiac arrhythmias, high blood pressure, vomiting, tremors, and seizures. Another toxic food German Shepherd owners should not feed their dog is chocolate. As yummy as this is, chocolates contain theobromine. All dog breeds cannot metabolize this substance. Gums, peanut butter, and candies that contain xylitol are also toxic to dogs. It causes disorientation, hypoglycemia, seizures, and collapse. This is much more threatening than coffee and chocolate, so you need to be extra careful with this. Aside from those mentioned above, there are many other toxic foods you should avoid feeding German Shepherds. They may not be fatal, but they can cause discomfort and progress to severe diseases. If you doubt certain foods or ingredients, you may consult a pet nutritionist or veterinarian just to be sure. Many large breed dogs visit vet clinics due to unmonitored food intake. It only fits a week-old German Shepherd. You may need to mix dry and wet foods at a certain age for your pup, or maybe you want to incorporate raw foods in their adult diet just like many dog owners do. You just have to make sure you know how to do it correctly, and you provide the most nutritious dry dog food or wet food. You should give enough time for your dog to adjust to a new food gradually. Like other shepherd breeds, you should allow a 7-day transition period from feeding German Shepherds their old food to their new diet. If there is discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea, you may opt to slow down the process even more or consult your vet directly. Feeding an Overweight German Shepherd If you free-feed a German Shepherd, it may likely cause excessive weight gain or obesity. Furthermore, it can easily cause heavy or labored breathing during sleep and irregular movements, such as climbing stairs. Aside from dog food or canned food, a few more factors that can cause an overweight dog breed are table scraps, treats, and not enough exercise. There are a lot of alternatives for treats bought from pet stores, such as fruits and vegetables. These are easier to digest, lighter, and healthier. Eliminate table scraps and leftovers in their diet as they are unnecessary to these large breed puppies. Following a specific schedule with specific amounts of puppy food can significantly help lose weight. Implementing control in their daily meals can help reduce unnecessary food consumption. It is essential to understand that having an overweight dog is more likely caused by the lifestyle owners expose their dogs to. Also, inform family members about the diet plan, so your German Shepherd will not be too spoiled with food. There are a lot of factors why your GSD is not eating. It could be triggered by illness, dental problems , and environmental stress. But it can also be because of adverse reactions to medicines, sudden changes in food, increased body temperature, or your dog just being a picky eater. Do German Shepherds Eat a Lot? As a large breed dog, you can expect a German Shepherd to have a huge appetite. They are always eager to eat, may it be dry food, raw, or canned food. However, it is crucial to know when or how much to feed a German Shepherd to avoid weight problems and severe diseases. Can German Shepherds Eat Bones? German Shepherds can eat bones as it is a great source of minerals. However, there are cons to consider, too. According to AKC, if you want to consider giving them bones, there are certain rules you have to follow, such as giving them raw meat bones and throwing them out after three to four days. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Generally, German Shepherds can thrive and survive on a vegetarian diet, provided that they are supplied with enough nutrients, proteins, fats, and calories on a daily basis. Since German Shepherds are energetic dogs with huge appetites, we must put extra effort into planning out their diet. Options such as dry, wet, raw, and homemade diets are all great for them. Free feeding them or giving too many treats can lead to severe health problems. It is also essential to know what foods are healthy and should be avoided, as some foods are toxic. However, aside from research, we need to consult their vet to ensure that we provide them with essential nutrients for growth, good health, and development in all stages of their life, especially for giant German Shepherds , If you have other tips in feeding a German Shepherd, make sure to share them in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. E-mail Share by e-mail German Shepherds make great family dogs — they are loyal, intelligent, and have lots of energy! A good diet is key to giving your pet a long and healthy life, and the wrong diet can lead to a number of health problems. German Shepherds are big dogs with active lifestyles, so making sure they get the right nutrition at different stages throughout their lives is essential. Feeding your German Shepherd Puppy Puppies are growing rapidly and have very specific nutritional requirements. Puppy food tends to be high in calories and protein as they are bundles of energy at this age! Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a good quality balanced diet is essential to ensure that they grow up to be healthy adults. There are some foods designed specifically for large breeds such as German Shepherds, which provide extra support for their growing joints. You should look out for these foods in the pet store and ideally choose one of these large breed diets. You can find further general puppy feeding guidelines and advice via the AKC as well as specific German Shepherd facts and info. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? Puppies need to be fed more frequently than adult dogs to support their rapidly growing bodies. German Shepherd puppies should be fed 4 meals a day until they are 3 months old, then reduce to 3 meals a day until they are 10 months old when their growth rate starts to slow down. Once they reach this age, they need 2 meals a day. When should I start feeding adult food? Puppies must stay on puppy food until they reach adult size. German Shepherds are large dogs and tend to reach adult size later than smaller dogs. They are usually fully matured at months. German Shepherds should stay on puppy food until they are months old, then they should move on to an adult diet. Feeding your adult German Shepherd An adult German Shepherd will weigh around lbs and need at least an hour of exercise every day, so their diet needs to reflect this. It might seem like your dog is eating a lot, but they need to replace the energy they burn off and eat enough of the right nutrients to sustain them! How often should I feed my German Shepherd? Adult dogs should be fed two meals a day. When should I switch from adult to senior food? As dogs get older their nutritional requirements change again. They are less active, and German Shepherds are more prone to joint problems such as osteoarthritis. You should consider switching to a senior diet at around 8 years of age. What type of food should German Shepherds eat? Whichever diet you pick, you should ensure it is suitable for large dogs or working breeds and that it has plenty of protein and calcium, and also includes some type of doggy superfoods, too. Commercially prepared foods are the best way to ensure your dog gets a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and they come in wet or dried forms. Some dogs prefer one or the other, whilst some enjoy a variety and mix of both. Dry Food Dried food is cheap, easy to feed and store, and has lots of benefits for your dogs. Dogs fed a dried food diet will drink more water, and you can soak the kibble to add a bit extra if you like. Wet Food Wet foods contain more water than dried, and often resemble meat which some dogs love. The food is usually in chunks with jelly or gravy, and some dogs prefer it to dried. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are large and active dogs with demanding nutritional requirements throughout their lives. They go through a rapid growth stage as puppies, and as adults need the right balance of nutrients to replenish the energy they burn off exercising. They need to eat a diet that has the right balance of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, and ensure they get the right number of meals a day to maintain good physical and mental health. Puppies should eat meals a day until they are around 10 months old then they should eat 2 meals a day as adults. Do German shepherds require a lot of food? German Shepherds are large dogs so naturally, eat larger portions than smaller breeds. They are active dogs and need lots of protein and energy to keep them healthy. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.