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Translation missing: en. June 8, Liz Palika Dog breeders and behavioral specialists feel that the week range is the adequate age for most dogs to leave their mother for their new homes. Unfortunately, in talking with other dog trainers, behavioral consultants and behaviorists, we all agree we're seeing a trend of puppies leaving mom and littermates far too young. A puppy who leaves his mother and littermates at five to six weeks of age, or worse yet, even younger, is going to suffer for that throughout his life. Adopting Eight Week Old Dogs Is Typical The traditional age for puppies to leave their mom and littermates and go to their new home has been eight weeks of age. At eight weeks of age most puppies are able to eat well, no longer need to nurse or eat supplemental formula, are mobile, and are aware of their world. They are well socialized to the people in their household and hopefully have also met other animals in the home. They have been exposed to a variety of sights, sounds, and smells and while they pay attention to these things, they are not afraid. At eight weeks of age these puppies are ready to leave their mother and siblings and go to their new home. Nine to Ten Week Old Pups are Typically The Best Age Since some puppies tend to go through a fear period at eight weeks of age an awareness of the world around them that can cause anxiety , many breeders and new owners would prefer to wait one or two more weeks. I brought home Hero, and before him Bones, at nine and a half weeks of age, because I felt that the puppies at that age were a bit more mature and ready for their new lives. One to two weeks can make a big difference. Other dog trainers and behaviorists agree: nine to 10 weeks of age is absolutely fine. In fact at this age, the puppy is past the eight week fear period, if he had one, and he's a bit more confident now. Developmentally, he's ready to learn, explore and figure out what his new life is going to be. Those who breed toy breeds especially, including Chihuahuas, Papillons, and other tiny dogs, will keep the puppies until they are 11 to 12 weeks of age. These tiny puppies can be quite fragile physically and may be slower to mature mentally and emotionally as babies. A few more weeks with their mother and littermates, as well as the people they know in their family, is often best for them. Larger puppies, however, shouldn't wait this long to go to their new homes. Nine to ten weeks of age is fine but any older could be problematic. Not only do large breed puppies grow rapidly, they are also stronger and rowdy, potentially making it more difficult for new owners to bond with this excited, big puppy who is jumping, pawing and otherwise making life difficult. Also, a week-old large-breed puppy is still a dependent baby; by 12 weeks he's changing. It's much easier for new owners to bond with an eight—to week-old puppy. The mother dog has so much to teach the new puppy ; lessons that will affect him all his life, and his littermates teach important lessons as well. If the mother dog has passed away, the littermates need to remain together. To Learn Key Social and Behavioral Traits Puppies who leave their canine family too early will show immediate behavior problems. They will be fearful of many things and show a lack of confidence. They can also be slow to bond to people or will go the other direction, attaching so strongly to their new owners that they will panic when left alone. The ability to soothe himself, to relax when left alone, is missing with most of these puppies. Biting is common. The mother dog teaches the puppy to control his biting as do the puppy's littermates. When puppies go to their new home, some biting is to be expected, as all puppies experiment. But when deprived of these early lessons, the puppy will bite more and harder, and teaching him that biting is not allowed is more difficult. This important transition time ensures that puppies receive all the appropriate nutrition from their mother. This will support the long term health of the puppy. Additionally, interrupting the weaning process too early has behavioral side effects for young dogs. Suckling, even past the need for milk can be a source of comfort while a puppy grows accustomed to eating only solid foods. Taking Puppies Too Young is Illegal In Some States In 26 states , the age at which puppies may be separated from the mother dog or sold is defined by law. Of those, 22 say that puppies must be eight weeks old before they can be sold. Three states—Wisconsin, Virginia, and Maine—require that puppies must be seven weeks old. Some states focus on the age that a puppy can be separated from his mother. Illinois, for example, requires that a puppy be at least eight weeks old before he can be taken from his mother. The laws vary as to who these laws apply to, with some focusing on dog breeders, kennels, and other commercial facilities. Other laws apply to anyone selling puppies, including those on Craigslist. Before buying any puppy, the more you know the better. If an unscrupulous person produces puppies and knows that he can sell them early at six to seven weeks or earlier and avoid paying for food, veterinary care, or other costs, then that cycle will continue. But if more people say no, then perhaps that cycle of human behavior can be changed. Select Options How to treat your newborn Boxers during their first 8 weeks If you have a litter of a newborn Boxer puppies you should prepare to be close to them at least for 8 first weeks of their life. It is the crucial time when you have to be ready for any situation, as it is the time when the health of your puppy is shaped. Day 1 During this day mother-dog will feed her babies with Colostrum. This is a milky liquid that contains a lot of nutrients, providing the puppies with vital antibodies. This day can be called a " sleepy day", as the puppies will sleep almost all the time when not drinking. If the puppies' bodies are warm, they breathe naturally and make soft noises, they are full and fine. On the first day the puppies cannot eliminate waists from their organism themselves yet, so their mother will lick them to stimulate this process. Boxer puppies have their eyes still closed and it will stay this way for days. The umbilical cord still remains, as it is rather damp and not ready to fall off. Day 2 On this day your puppies can lose weight. Don't be afraid, it is absolutely normal. However, take care that the larger puppies don't push the weaker puppies off the nipple. Day 3 If you decided to dock your puppies' tails, it is the best day to do it. Consult with your vet and consider carefully your decision. It is also the day when the cord is dry enough to fall off. On this day you should remove the dewclaws, if you decided to do so. Remember, that it should be done only by your experienced veterinarian. Week 1 During this week you should weigh your puppy each day. Take a basket lined with a soft and clean towel and measure it first. Then put the puppy into the basket. Thus, you will be able to calculate accurate number. Each day your puppies must gain weight. If there is no increase, contact your vet immediately. The nails should be trimmed each day as they grow very quickly. Please, do it very carefully for not to hurt your dog. You must trim off only a small "hook" of the nail. Week 2 It is the time when your small Boxers begin to open their eyes. It is a slow process so be patient. The puppies still hold close to their mom, but they already make their attempts to communicate with you. Week 3 It is a "chatting time". Now the puppies should fully open their eyes. The ear canal is also should be fully formed so the small Boxers start hearing their voices and barking. Be ready that your little travelers will make an attempts to leave their place. Now they have everything to learn the world better! Although it is not desirable to allow them to run about the house as they can harm themselves. Connect one or more boxes together, thus, making a big "playing ground". This way, your puppies will have enough place to communicate and play with each other. And it will be a safe place! Week 4 On the 4th week you may start feeding your puppies with solid food. Make a mixture containing 14 of puppy dog food and 34 of water. Begin with small amounts. You should habituate your puppies to solid food gradually and slowly as their digestive system cannot accept it at once. You can also remove extra heating. The temperature in the room must be 72 F 23 C. Week 5 It is the time when you can give toys to your puppies. You still have to check their weight, but not necessarily each day. Normal weight should vary between 2 lbs. Gradually make the food more solid by adding more puppy dog food and less water. Mother-dog is tired and exhausted so she would like to spend less time with her children. It is a perfect time for your interaction with the puppies. They will be very happy to play with you. Week 6 On the 6th week you may introduce your puppies a new world. Be ready that your small Boxers will become more active and start eating a lot. However, it is still too early for training. It is better to involve them into outdoor walkings. Try to walk them separately and beware of other dogs. Your puppies will be really fascinated to feel the warmth of the sun and soft touch of the grass! Week 7 You Boxer puppies do not require nursing any more. It is a great time when they grew up enough to involve you in their quite active games. Outdoor walks must become a daily routine. You should also take mother-dog with you as well. She will start educating her children all necessary skills. This week is perfect to pass to the usual routine of dog feeding, grooming, exercise and playing. Week 8 During this week the puppies should have their first vaccinations. If you are not going to keep all the puppies, it is a good time to find a new home for them. Make sure that you give them to the kind and loving people, who will take care of their small Boxers. If you are going to keep all or some puppies, you can begin training them as well as falling back into your normal dog care schedule. As stated above, Boxer puppies should remain with their mother and siblings until they are at least 8 weeks old. In some states and countries, this is actually a law! This is both ill-advised and even frowned upon due to a range of negative consequences that can happen from an early removal explained in the next section Many veterinarians and reputable breeders will often say that this is one way to weed out the good breeders from the shady ones. And if you come across a breeder that seems a little too pushy for your money and encourages you to take the puppy before 8 weeks, you should look elsewhere! Is 6 weeks too young for a boxer puppy to leave its mother? Yes, 6 weeks is too young for a puppy to leave their mother. In some states and countries, this is even the law. Boxer puppies are strong and they also like to bite and chew. And when it hurts them, they are going to turn round and give him a good telling off. And trust me, that will be painful! Puppies Socialize With Their Siblings Socializing is an important part of developing a well-behaved, friendly dog. But it starts pretty much from day one, with his brothers and sisters. Getting as much socialization as possible with his siblings and his mother will prove an important part of his overall personality and character. Allowing him that time to interact, sniff, play, argue, eat, and sleep next to his canine pack is invaluable despite being so young. Boxers grow to be big, strong, and particularly hyper, especially during their adolescence. Managing and training a Boxer can be difficult under the best of circumstances, let alone raising one who was already removed from his mother too early. Disclaimer: As I mentioned at the start of this section, there are many examples of dogs including Boxers who grow up to be well-behaved and friendly despite being removed from their mother too early. Even though puppies will have health assessments done by veterinarians, some conditions may go undiscovered for a little while. The longer you are able to wait before bringing home a puppy, the higher the chances are that your puppy is fit and healthy Some breeders shady ones may even offer a discounted price for puppies that are too young to be sold. Not only are they trying to grab your money, but it may have something to do with health issues and the increased risk on your part. This is original content produced and published by The Puppy Mag www. If you go to visit a litter and you see a puppy you like, the next important question is how old are they, and this can be a make or break moment. Full documentation, health assessments, and even the documentation of the parents should all be available for you, and at no point, should the breeder try selling you a puppy under 8 weeks. Boxer articles on The Puppy Mag:. Boxer Newborn Puppy Care Overview If you have had a litter of Boxer puppies at your home and you are in charge of taking care of a newborn Boxer puppy, much attention must be taken during the first 8 weeks. From the moment of birth until the pups are at least 2 months old, a person must be close by and ready for any situation. Each week will bring new changes and responsibilities. This is a crucial time for care that can shape the health of the dog for its lifetime. How to Know if a Boxer Puppy is Getting Enough Milk The amount of times that a newborn puppy drinks milk from its mother varies from pup to pup. The important aspect is to know if a puppy is receiving enough throughout the day. Sometimes larger newborns will push their way to Mama and smaller puppies may not be getting enough milk. Some puppies may not be strong enough to suckle from smaller nipples some will be larger than others or strong enough to suckle once other pups have done so, and as the milk supply runs lower a puppy needs to suckle harder. How do you know if a Boxer puppy is getting enough milk? It is important to weigh each puppy. This can be done with a baby scale or electronic kitchen scale. Of course, take great care when weighing them. Always use the same type of blanket or cushioning on the scale so that you always get an accurate weight and the blanket does not affect the weight Weigh each puppy 2 times per day: AM and PM Keep careful track of who is who! You can do this by using a dot of white-out fluid applied to the ear in a certain area or other gentle marking method If a puppy shows no weight gain each day, you must take steps to ensure that pup receives more nutrition If a newborn is not gaining weight: Give the larger puppies a supplement Allow the smaller puppy to drink first; the larger puppies will have more strength to suck harder to retrieve their milk If There is a Weight Loss: This can be extremely dangerous. During the first few days it will not be milk; it will be Colostrum. This is a highly nutritional fluid that gives vital antibodies to the puppy. The puppy will sleep almost all the time, when not drinking. The Boxer pup will also make soft noises. As long as the puppy's body is warm and you feel him or her breathing naturally, all should be fine. A puppy this young will not be able to eliminate on its own. The mother will lick the pup to stimulate the expulsion of bowel or urine. Do not be shocked if the dam then eats this. The newborn Boxer puppy will have its eyes closed. They will stay this way for about 10 to 15 days. The umbilical cord will still be damp and certainly not ready to fall off. Day 2 It is perfectly normal for a Boxer puppy to lose weight on its 2nd day of life. Carefully watch for any Boxer newborn that seems to be getting pushed out of the way by other pups and unable to drink from mom. If this is happening, remove the other puppies after they feed and allow the hungry puppy to nurse alone, not bothered by their brothers and sisters. Day 3 Talk to your veterinarian regarding docking the tail , if you have decided to do so. This is often done on day 3. This decision should be carefully thought about. In addition, the Boxer puppy's cord will be dry and just about ready to fall off. Dewclaws, if removed, are usually done so on this day by your dog's experienced veterinarian. Week 1 Puppies should be weighed each day. This can be done by preparing a small basket, lined with a soft and clean towel. The basket can be placed on the scale first, with the weight noted. Then, the puppy should be placed inside the basket. Subtract the weight of the basket to have the exact weight of your Boxer puppy. There should be an increase each day. If not, be sure to immediately contact your dog's veterinarian. Nails grow very quickly and should be trimmed as often as each day if needed. A clotting solution, such as Kwik Stop should be used in case the quick of the nail is cut by accident something to carefully avoid. As the pup matures, many owners find that a grinder tool works much better than a clipper. Some dogs need to learn to tolerate the noise, but once they do, grinding down nails can be fast and easy. Week 2 The eyes of the Boxer puppy may begin to open. This is a slow process in which they will open bigger and for more time each day. Puppies will still be nesting near mom. You should take a bit more time to handle the puppies. This is done to slowly allow the mother to become used to you holding them and for the puppies to begin bonding with you. Week 3 The Boxer puppy's eyes should be completely open. Ears will be open now, as well. The ear canal should be fully formed. This is a bit of a noisy time, as the Boxer puppies will begin to find their "voices" and begin to bark. A 3 week old Boxer will have an urge to leave the whelping box. They will have an instinctual urge to eliminate outside of their resting and sleeping area. One side of the box can be removed, with newspapers placed right outside. A 2nd box can be connected to the 1st whelping box. This will allow the pups to have room to romp around and play. This will also give the Boxer mom time to rest without her puppies jumping all over her. Allowing the puppies to play with each other in a safe and comfortable box is a necessary part of the first socialization they need. Week 4 When does a Boxer puppy begin eating solid food? The weaning process begins just about now, in Week 4. You may also wish to offer the very health option of homemade meals of only fresh ingredients. Start with small amounts. It will be a slow yet steady process for a puppy's digestive system to become used to solid food. Extra heating can be removed. The room should be at a comfortable 72 F .Week 5 You should begin introducing small toys to the puppy. The weight of the puppy should still be checked, this can be done every other day now. Normal weight varies very much but should fall in the range of 2 lbs. Feeding should change slightly, with more puppy food and less water. The dam may want to spend more time away from the puppies. This is where an owner must step in and have much more interaction with the puppies. While still fragile, they should be more than happy to be patted, cuddled and played with. Week 6 A Boxer puppy will be eating quite a bit of puppy dog food than before. Too young to be house trained , this may be a messy week or 2 since bowel movements will become more frequent. While it is too early to expect a puppy to be trained yet, if the weather is warm and day this is a great week to introduce a puppy to the outside world. If you are caring for more than 1 pup, take each one outside separately or 2 at the most. Always keep the Boxer on a leash and beware of any dogs in the area. Allow them to become used to what grass feels like! Allow a pup to enjoy the warmth of the sun and the refreshment of a cool breeze. Week 7 Puppies may not be nursing at all any more. They should be spending quite a bit of time with you and with the other puppies. Going outside should be a daily routine. The dam should be brought outside with the pups; she will use this time to teach them skills. This is the time to be very close to a dog's normal routine of grooming , feeding, exercise and play time. Week 8 This is the week that the puppies will receive their 1st vaccinations. If you will not be keeping the puppies, now is the time to begin the process of finding them a good home. All prospective owners should be evaluated fully. Make home visits if possible. Do not be afraid to ask many questions. If you will be keeping all or some of the puppies, now is the time to fall into normal care for your dog. Housebreaking training can begin as well as falling back into your normal schedule. See Also: Boxer puppy care - Overview of what is needed to take great care of a new Boxer puppy. Boxer dog questions and answers - Round-up of some of the most common issues and care elements with the Boxer breed. Eating, sleeping and staying warm are the three primary needs of puppies, and most of these are taken care of by their mother. It is important that newborn boxer puppies stay with their mother for the first eight weeks of their lives. In the first 24 to 36 hours of their lives, boxer puppies will be exposed to the colostrum in their mother's milk; it's important in them receiving lifesaving antibodies and nutrients. The average weight of a newborn boxer puppy is 1 pound, and during his first few weeks he will grow rapidly. At this time they will begin to play with litter-mates. At 4 weeks, boxer puppies can be introduced to wet commercial food, although they will still nurse as well. Introduce them to as many toys and sounds as possible, to allow them to adjust at a young age. Most newborn puppies are taken to the vet for the first time between 6 and 8 weeks of age, getting their first rounds of shots and having a general checkup. At 7 and 8 weeks, they are no longer nursing and are eating a mix of wet and dry puppy food. By this time they have become well-socialized and are on their way to being happy, trained pups. They can eat solid puppy food and begin to be house-trained. You can help your new boxer puppy adjust to his new home by bringing home some blankets or toys that smell like his litter-mates; these will remind him of his first few weeks of life. More Articles. Bruno's first week—7 weeks old, 12 pounds, 10 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders the withers. We adopted Bruno when he was 7 weeks old. We had to wait until he was ready to leave the breeder before we could pick him up and bring him home. The breeder's policy was not to let the pups go until they are 8 weeks old, however Bruno's mother had died at birth and therefore he was not going to get that extra week with her and because of a schedule conflict on our end she made an exception. We decided to crate train our new puppy. Most puppies will cry all night in the beginning days because they miss their mother and their littermates. I placed Bruno's crate in the kitchen since it has a floor that can easily be cleaned in case of an accident. Dreading the sound of a crying puppy all night, and knowing this was the first night away from his litter I told two of my children to set up camp on the kitchen floor next to the crate. I did not want to bring the pup into our bed since we do not plan on allowing him on the beds when he is older. It worked, Bruno slept in his crate and didn't yip all night because he was not alone. Allie, our adult Boxer and two of our children were next to his crate. This allowed Bruno to learn what the crate was for, yet not be left alone. Bruno was exhausted from his three-hour car ride home and all of the attention he was receiving. Amazingly enough, he slept until a. I jumped out of bed and ran down to take him out to pee. It was then time for breakfast, another trip outside and playtime. I was up for the day because when he woke up, he needed to be taken right outside to pee and poop. Then he was hungry. After he ate he needed to be taken immediately outside once again to go to the bathroom. After a puppy eats, it stimulates them and the vast majority of time, they need to eliminate, it's a rule of thumb with a puppy. Then he wanted to play. After all, he just woke up! No time like the present to get hyper and want to play. He had three accidents in the last two days, which is very good for a brand new puppy. If Bruno is out of his crate, he needs to be watched constantly. I don't mean watched from across the room, I mean watched as in "hovering over him watched" to ensure he does not pee, poop or chew anything he is not supposed to inside the house. During the day we try not to crate him. He's either being held, hovered over or outside. We are lucky enough to have a very large fenced yard for him. If we did not, he'd have to be walked on a leash to go to the bathroom, which would be much more time-consuming. We have to teach Bruno not to bite our hands and feet. Yes, it is cute now and kind of funny, but when he is pounds it will not be so cute anymore. Rule of thumb with a puppy: if you do not want him doing it when he is full grown, do not allow him to do it when he is a puppy. This includes sitting with him on the furniture. Another thing we must break him from is chasing our cats. Again, it's cute and funny now, but this tiny little Boxer puppy will not be tiny for long and our cats would not appreciate an adult dog chasing them around. Cats are smart, if we allow this to go on they may even decide to take up residence elsewhere. Allie the Boxer meets her new brother. Adult dogs usually do not attack puppies and Allie rather liked the little guy. She did have to put him in his place a few times, which is normal dog behavior. An adult dog will often growl at a puppy to let it know its behavior is not acceptable. For example, when Bruno wanted to play and Allie did not, she let out a small growl and stomped at the pup to tell him enough was enough. Bruno took the hint and backed off his play and started chewing on Allie's collar and dog tags instead. Allie didn't seem to mind getting her tags chewed. She realizes Bruno is just a baby. I am lucky enough to be home with the puppy. If I had to leave for work things would be much more complicated. Bruno is young and he can only hold his pee and poop for a certain amount of time. The point of crate training a dog is you put the dog in a small enough crate so there is only room to comfortably sleep. Dogs do not like to eliminate where they sleep. However, if you leave a young puppy in a crate for too long, they cannot physically hold it in and they must go, even on their bedding. If you allow this to happen, you are going backwards in your housebreaking. If you are going to be gone for many hours a day, longer than the puppy can physically hold it, it is better to pen the dog in an area such as the kitchen where the floors are easy to clean up and place some pee pads down. It is not fair to crate a puppy or dog longer then they can comfortably hold in their waste. It is much harder to housebreak a dog if you are not home. This can really give the puppy a bad start in life and will be no fault of its own when they do not understand the concept of housebreaking. Keep in mind, you cannot yell at a dog for something after the fact, you must catch it in the act. If you do not catch it in the act, your yelling is pointless and confusing to the dog. I am writing this at a. However, he will be up bright and early wanting to eliminate, eat and play.It's now a. Bruno had to go to the bathroom. I walked him outside to the spot where I prefer him to do his business. He peed and I decided to give him some time to see if he had to poop as well; he is still outside and I must go and check on my adorable bundle of a puppy.Bruno is back in his crate. Bruno is yipping. I instinctively go and see him. Goodnight, Bruno, you have a lot to learn my young puppy. Sshhhh, lets only hope he does not keep me up all night because I will have to put up with his yipping in order to teach him what nighttime means. As I type this he is yipping from his crate. I am off to shower and go to bed. I decide to let Bruno get a drink and put him outside with Allie one last time before I go to bed to ensure he does not have to go when I ignore his plea to come out of his crate. When I turned off the shower water I could hear Bruno yipping up a storm. It woke my 9 year old who was almost sleepwalking when she opened his crate to put him outside to pee. I did her the favor of taking the pup out and told her to go back to bed. I put Bruno outside. He stayed out for a few minutes then wanted back in. It is only his third night away from his littermates and he's a tiny pup. After getting the usual puppy kisses all over my neck yeah, nice after my shower, huh? I will give him a few minutes to get good and sleepy then place him back in his crate and hope for the best. Even with all of this work, I look at him like I did my newborn babies; I just love this little puppy! The next morning: 7 weeks and 3 days old a. Bruno's up, hungry and ready to play! Bruno is tired and ready to go back to sleep. But first, his head smells like pee; he must have rolled in it. Time to clean him up and then put him back to sleep. He's taken outside to go to the bathroom and to play. He is now awake for the day but will take numerous naps as puppies need a lot of sleep. We will try not to allow his naps to last for hours on end, as those long sleep periods should be adjusted to the middle of the night hours. This size crate is the perfect size for this puppy. There needs to be room to sleep, stretch out and stand, but not enough room for him to pee in one section and still have a dry place to sleep. It's Bruno's fourth day with us and he has already picked up on the concept that his crate is the place to sleep without being disturbed. We are not being extra quiet as it is the middle of the day and he must get used to noises. Also most of his quiet sleep should be adjusted for the middle of the night. He'll soon wake to eat his lunch, go to the bathroom and play. He'll be awake for a few hours and then need another nap. This crate may be perfect for now, but very soon he'll outgrow it and we'll have to get him a larger one. I let Bruno sleep for two hours and decided it was time to wake him. As soon as he turns his hours around and is sleeping through the night I will no longer worry about the length of his daytime naps. I know he can sleep through the night; he did it the first two nights, but not the third. Bruno's 4th night: 7weeks and 4days old Bruno woke up at a. I came downstairs and put him outside. He peed and pooped. I carried him back to his crate and closed it. He laid down, then a few minutes later he started crying again. I walked back to the kitchen and was about to tell him to be quiet and give him a bone to chew when some motherly instinct inside me opened the crate door. Bruno walked out of his crate and over to my feet then sat down, leaning on my leg. I picked up the little fellow, he put his head on my shoulder and started to go back to sleep. My typical advice would be to put the puppy back in the crate if you are sure he no longer has to go to the bathroom, however I walked over to the rocking chair and rocked him back to sleep. I then put him back in his crate and he woke back up in the process, but this time he went to sleep and stayed asleep until a. He is just like a newborn baby and he's sweet as can be. Bruno's 5th night: 7 weeks and 5 days old Bruno woke up at a. I came down and took him outside and he went to the bathroom. I held him for just a bit until he calmed back down, then put him back in his crate and he fell back to sleep by a. Bruno woke up again. He was ready to play and eat his breakfast. I was beat, so at a. I tried putting him back in his crate to see if he would go back to sleep. It seemed like it just might work. I headed back to bed. At he started yipping just as I lay down. I went back to his crate and held a bone up to him to chew on and talked quietly to him. His eyes started drooping as he half chewed his bone still inside his crate. I waited there for just a bit until his eyes stayed closed for a minute or two, then I went back to bed for an hour. Housebreaking Bruno is now 7 weeks and 5 days old. He seemed to be doing so well with housebreaking. He was either inside being watched, in his crate or outside. As soon as he woke we put him outside to pee. He is not in his crate unless he's sleeping. Bruno was falling asleep so I decided to put him in his crate for a nap. As I leaned down to put him in his crate I smelled something. I felt his blankets and sure enough they were damp. Bruno had been peeing in his crate and sleeping in it! I changed his bedding and he seemed quite pleased. Now I have to figure out how to stop him when he's not doing it in front of me. The crate is not too large, which would have been my first advice to someone, to check the crate size. He is only 7 weeks. Maybe I am not always hearing him wake up in the middle of the night. At this age, puppies can only physically hold it for so long before they have to go, no matter what. Baby monitor??? Bruno smells like pee from sleeping in his crate. Time for a bath. Bruno's 6th night: 7 weeks and 6 days old Bruno was up at a. I let him out to pee. He went back to sleep shortly after and re-awoke at a. Bruno peed in his crate again, in the very back corner. I had to throw his bedding in the wash again and replace it with new bedding. His crate is not too large. I believe I need to watch how much he drinks right before bedtime. Puppies at this age have small bladders and cannot physically hold it in for too long. Bruno asked to come back inside the house and wanted to curl up in my lap, which means he's ready to go back to sleep. I put him back in his crate with the fresh bedding. Allie and Bruno sharing the dog bed. Yes, I do believe they like one another. Why Bruno.Bruno peed on his dog bed, the bed we keep on the porch for him. I had to hose his bed off and prop it up to dry. This is him asking mommy why she got his bed all wet with the hose. Actually, it is him discovering some new and interesting smells the moisture is bringing out from the bed!

Their body temperature at birth is around 94 — 97 degrees. They are not able to regulate their own body temperature so they depend on their mother for warmth. They also cannot see or hear or eliminate on their own. They cannot walk. About all they can do is smell, suckle and crawl. They are totally dependent on their mother and the environment the first 2 to 3 weeks. They are mostly influenced by their mother and litter-mates during this period. We weigh the puppies everyday the first 2 to 3 weeks. Week Two: Poodle Puppies usually open their eyes around 8 to 10 days and their ears around 13 to 17 days. While sleeping all healthy and contented puppies will twitch. This is an activated sleep, characterized by muscle twitches. This is normal and healthy. Week Three: During the third week we will often see teeth start to erupt and the puppies will start to stand and walk around. Everyday is amazing to see these helpless puppies start to become independent. At this age their nervous system is more developed so that they can urinate and defecate by themselves. This is when the puppies will also start to play a little bit more with their litter-mates. This week is very important in the puppies emotional development. They will start not only the interaction with their litter-mates but also with their mother. We never start the weaning process during this week. While mother may come out of the whelping box during this week she will never be far. Week Four: At this age the puppies will be introduced to our own homemade puppy mush and their supplement which will help grow their immune systems. Puppies are born without an immune system and depends on their mother to supply this protection through her milk. Their body temperature will usually be around degree and they will be able to begin regulating their own body temperature. Every day they will eat more and more. The puppies will start to eat more food and move around more easily. They may even start to chase each other, bark, and bite. We still weigh them at least every other day if not every day. This is the time that the mother starts leaving the puppies at longer intervals of time and start to regulate their nursing. So this is a good time for us to introduce the puppies to the weaning box and start the weaning and potty box training. Week Five: Puppies start to establish some sort of dominance in the pack. Growth and development is rapid in this week. They become very aware of their surroundings and respond quickly to training. They begin to growl, play, challenge, and learn disciple from their mother. They also develop a bit of a competitive spirit. Training ability is developed and puppies are ready to begin learning. They also start to discover their toys and play with them more. Keeping them stimulated is important. Puppies can start to control their need to potty and now know they need to move away from the sleeping area. Good experience with people from week 5 — 7 will play a large roll in how they will continue to interact. Week Six: By this time it is amazing to see that little puppy wake up and walk over to the potty box to eliminate. Puppies enter their socialization period by the end of the third week. However, the most critical period — age six to eight weeks — is when puppies most easily learn to accept others as part of their family pack. The integrating of the human family is so important and will effect them for the rest of their life. The puppy brain waves look of an adult dog by about the 50th day, but he is not yet programmed — that is the job of the human trainer, and the job of his mom, siblings and other canine family members. This is when the fun begins for all humans and puppies. We know how important this time is for puppy to adjust to humans and how playtime stimulates their little brains to grow smart and wise. We introduce them to the outside. We bring in more interactive toys. We introduce them to the pool, weather permitting. If outside pool is out we use the grooming bath for water play. They also learn not to bite the human hand ever! It is at the 7th week, day 49, that we conduct the Volhard Test. This is actual one of several that will occur through its life. Instead of meeting new or familiar people and objects with curiosity puppies start to react with fearfulness. Anything that frightens them at this age may have a lasting impact. So take care that the baby is not overstimulated with to many changes or challenges at one time. This does not mean that your puppy will grow up to be a scared-y-cat; it is simply a normal part of development where puppies learn to be more cautious. Careful socialization during this period helps counter fear reactions. Because your puppy is actively working on social skills and is paying attention to both litter-mates and humans. Your puppy is learning at an extremely fast rate. This is why we will NOT hold any puppy beyond the 9th weeks. All puppies that cannot be picked up during puppy pickup week must enter their puppy into a training program. Weeks Thirteen — Sixteen: During this phase a puppy will attempt to challenge you for dominance. Here is where they test to see just how much they can get away with and test your level of tolerance. The more a puppy is allowed to get way with during this phase, may cause the dog to lose more and more respect for his owner. This may result in behavioral issues that can snowball if not corrected through training and obedience. Formal obedience should begin here. This will assist the dog in becoming the best he can be. This is the time your puppy will begin to understand and use ranking in terms of submission and dominance. Are you the owner going to be a good pack leader? Puppies will need to be taught what they can and cannot chew. Puppies need to be taught that it is never acceptable behavior to jump on a human, small or big. This is the time that the pack leader, the human in charge, especially needs to be confident, but firm with positive reinforcement. An obedient dog, a good canine citizen, is a pleasure to be with. A disobedient dog causes stress for all and can cause damage to things and other humans. What do I mean by that? The canine depends on a human, however, he is and his thinking is canine. He needs the human to communicate and set the standards for him. If the human does not then the dog will have no choice but set his own standards, doggy style. Be prepared to be a Good, very good, pack leader! Your puppy now understands that he has a pack which may consist of both humans and canine and his behavior will be most influenced by this group. You can expect your dog to challenge you more as he explores dominance and his role in the pack. Rather they are just working out what their rank is in the pack and what is expected of them in their position. Again: be a Good, very good, pack leader! Canines that are not spayed or neutered will also start exhibiting sexual behavior during this period. Be responsible and spay or neuter you canine. Some puppy owners hire a canine trainer to come to their home to teach them how to train. Some owners learn ahead of time what they need to do and immediately begin their puppy on this program. Still others have their puppy enter into our training program. We have much information on the website about training. And for our puppy buyer we are here whenever they need any coaching along the way. Be Consistent, Persistent and always have a Routine! At what age is a Poodle fully grown? Poodles are considered fully grown adults at two years old and tend to show emotional signs of maturity, like a calmer nature, around 18 months. At a year old, most Poodles will have reached their final height or very close to it. However, most Poodles will require a full two years to fill out their chest and reach their final weight. Image Source: Pexels How big should a 6-month-old Poodle be? A six-month-old male Poodle will weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a six-month-old female Poodle will weigh about 28 to 34 pounds. Both male and female Poodles at this age stand at around 18 to 22 inches tall, which for some Poodles is already their full adult height. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on pet first aid kits, puppy-proofing practices, training, veterinary appointments, and more! How much bigger will my Poodle get? There are a few ways to assess how much bigger your Poodle will get. The first is age. If your Poodle is less than a year old, they still have significant growth left! If your Poodle is between one and two years old, they are likely still filling out a bit, but are probably at their adult height. Do they still look oversized next to their legs and body? If this is the case, they are probably still filling out as this is a classic puppy feature! A Poodle puppy will rarely grow larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you an idea of their maximum size. What is the size of a full-grown Poodle? According to the American Kennel Club Official Poodle Standards , an adult male Poodle is 60 to 70 pounds while an adult female Poodle weighs between 40 and 50 pounds. By these standards, full-grown Poodles will be over 15 inches tall when measuring from the ground to the highest point of their shoulders while standing. Most Standard Poodles will stand between 18 and 24 inches tall. Smart lifestyle choices are essential in keeping your Poodle happy and healthy. The Veterinary Centers of America recommend a long walk, jog, or intense play to fulfill their daily exercise needs. Poodles were bred as retrievers and, as such, are keen on games involving retrieving like fetch. Many Poodles also enjoy swimming. Due to their full coats, Poodles can put on excess weight without their pet parents realizing it. Poodles are not overly prone to weight issues with a balanced diet, but their coat can disguise weight changes. Their full coats also require regular upkeep like brushing and combing every other day, professional grooming every six weeks or so, and watching for potential eye problems. Poodles are prone to weeping eyes and eye irritation from lashes or hair, so keeping their eye area free of long hair is ideal. As a purebred dog breed, Poodles are more susceptible to genetic health problems. Many of these genetic health problems can be screened for early on using DNA technology. These early screenings can help you and your veterinarian prevent and minimize health complications from these genetic diseases. A bove all else, regular veterinary care is the best way to make sure your Poodle stays healthy. Between health screenings, regular veterinary care, bloodwork, x-rays , dental cleanings , and more, your veterinarian is your best resource in caring for your precious Poodle puppy. Be aware, vet visits can quickly become expensive - especially when immediate treatment or surgery is needed for an emergency or illness. With many treatments and surgeries costing thousands of dollars, this can quickly put pet parents in a pinch should the worst happen to their pet. Poodles are larger dogs, which can also increase the price of treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Pet insurance reimburses you for out-of-pocket veterinary costs and provides a safety net should the worst happen to your Poodle. As purebred dogs, Poodles are more prone to genetic health problems, like bloat or hip dysplasia, which can quickly become expensive to treat. Final Considerations Poodle puppies grow into elegant, proud dogs who are true aristocrats of the dog kingdom. We know how much your Poodle pup means to you and that they deserve the best! Give yourself peace of mind today when you use Pawlicy Advisor to compare personalized pet insurance quotes from the top Poodle pet insurance companies. 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. Poodles are one of the most frequent breeds to win dog shows. They are available in standard, miniature and toy sizes. Though classed in the non-sporting and toy groups, poodles were originally bred for water retrieving. Regardless of size, play and social interaction are important for optimum poodle puppy development. Birth to Two Weeks Poodle puppies weigh about 4 to 6 oz. During this time, puppies are completely dependent on their mother for everything, including body temperature regulation. His senses and motor skills improve greatly during this time, and most poodle puppies will begin to explore the area around the whelping box. This is a good time for puppies to bond with humans through daily touch and gentle interaction. Four to 12 Weeks This is an important time period for house training and basic obedience. Some breeders, such as the owner of the website Poodle Junction, begin litter box training at this time. Poodles are also weaned from their mother starting at around five weeks. This process usually lasts until seven or eight weeks, by which time they should be eating solid puppy food exclusively. Puppies should be examined by a veterinarian and de-wormed at around six weeks, and most vets start the puppy vaccine series by eight weeks. At eight weeks, the puppies are old enough to go to new homes. During weeks eight to 12, the poodle puppy is adjusting to his new home, bonding with his owner and making associations between commands and rewards. During this time, puppies learn by testing their boundaries. Some poodle puppies may seem to regress in training during this time, but this is temporary and a normal part of development. It is important to be patient with a puppy and remember that he does not speak your language or understand all of your rules. Address issues like hand nipping with a verbal reprimand. Give the puppy an acceptable alternative, like a chew toy, and reward him for playing with it. Because poodles are an energetic breed, lots of play and exercise are important. This is a good time to start a daily routine that includes walks and games like fetch. Six to 12 Months During this time, a poodle puppy may challenge your dominance as he nears sexual maturation. Remain firm and consistent in your training. As your puppy nears the one-year mark, you can start transitioning him to an adult formula of dog food. Gradually replace some of his puppy food with the adult food over a period of several weeks. A rapid switch will cause digestive problems. This is also an ideal time to have your poodle neutered or spayed if you do not intend to use the dog for breeding. This helps reduce certain health risks and often eliminates some dominant behaviors. Talk to your veterinarian about the benefits of sterilization and the best time to perform the operation. Proper care for the Poodle will involve many aspects that will all work in combination to maintain excellent health and promote learning and good behavioral habits. It is important to establish a foundation of proper care during the puppy stage that will carry over throughout the Poodle's life. We will discuss: The items that you should have to care for a Poodle puppy Details on the 5 most important tips for proper care - Feeding, house training, offering the right amount of exercise, grooming and how to offer a healthy environment. Toy Poodles and Mini's will be puppies for the 1st year; standards mature at a somewhat slower rate and are considered to be puppies until the age of 2 years old. During this time, much care is needed for both physical growth and mental development. Bringing your new Poodle home is not as simple as just picking up your new family member from the breeder. Good care involves planning ahead. It helps to have all needed items well in advance so that you can focus on the puppy without having to rush out for a needed supply items. One of the most important elements to be aware of is that no matter what the puppy has been fed since he or she began eating solid food, you should have the exact same brand on hand. Quickly switching foods can cause upset stomach and other issues…and in the case of a puppy it can be the cause of hypoglycemia. A slow change must be made. If you opt to go with a different brand or to home cook, have enough of the 'old' food on hand for several weeks, as well as the 'new' so that that you can make gradual changeover. A quality dog bed — A new puppy will feel stress going to even the best of new homes. This is why making sure that you have a nice, soft, comfortable dog bed is important. You should show your Poodle that this is the area in which he can rest, sleep or just get away from noise when things seem to overwhelming. If you will be leaving your puppy home alone during the day, it is best to have the bed placed in the area where he will be staying. A gated off section of a room or inside a canine playpen works well. The entrance to this can be left open when you are home with your puppy can of course, closed off when you are away. In this way, the puppy will become accustomed to the area. If you will be home with your puppy, place this in the corner of room that is frequently used but not chaotic. Dogs like to have their own quiet spot, but not feel isolated. Walking and ID accessories — Along with a retractable leash and a collar for ID purposes, it is highly recommended to have a harness for your puppy. Toy Poodles no matter what the age and all Mini and Standard puppies should have on a harness and not a collar when they are on a leash. When a leash is connected to a dog collar, this can create too much tension on the neck, which can cause collapsed trachea. The trachea windpipe is protected by rings of cartilage…when this happens, those rings collapse in, causing pain and breathing problems. These can be purchased at a pet supply store and come in many unique and interesting designs so that your Poodle always looks stylish. If you are not sure which harness would be best for your Poodle puppy, you may wish to look to both 'Accessories' and 'Clothing- Harness' in the Poodle Specialty Shoppe. A Car Safety Seat - Long ago cars did not even have seat belts for humans. But now, of course, we all know how many lives they save. The very same is true for dogs. Even if you are a conscientious driver, you cannot be in control of those who are driving near you. Be sure to secure your Poodle into a canine car safety seat. All it takes is 1 second of you having to quickly brake for your Poodle to go sliding off of the seat, completely unprotected. These are also great for dogs that are prone to car sickness. A raised booster seat will assist a puppy in being able to look out of the window which reduces motion sickness. However, choosing high quality toys that can stand up to continual chewing and hold a puppy's interest is better. Puppies are full of energy and filled with curiosity; having a good supply of toys at all times will be very helpful. Puppies that are in the teething phase will be experiencing discomfort and teething toys will help to sooth sore gums and offer a chewing outlet See also: Poodle teething Grooming Supplies - Poodle care certainly involves proper grooming. This includes nails, dewclaws, bathes, drying, wrapping, trimming, clipping and topknots. See also: Bathing a Poodle Clothes - Particularly for tiny toy Poodles, protection against the elements should be implemented as needed. During cold, icy winters the use of canine shoes or paw wax helps protect paw pads from ice melt chemicals and aids with traction. A sweater or cute vest can keep a small Poodle puppy from becoming chilled. During hot months, shoes help protect sensitive paws from hot surfaces. Bowls - Plastic bowls often contain heavy dyes that can cause staining on a Poodle's coat. In addition, tiny scratches that easily develop in plastic bowls can also harbor dangerous bacteria. It is best to use stainless steel or ceramic bowls for both food and water. Dishes should shallow so that a puppy can easily reach both food and water without bumping their heads or straining to reach. Toys and Mini's may like raised bowls. However, Standards - who are prone to bloat- should only eat and drink from bowls that are at floor level. Free feed until 3 months old leaving food out at all times and then give your puppy 3 meals per day plus healthy snacks. Please choose your food wisely; cheaper foods with fillers will not offer the proper nutrition needed to aid with the rapid growth that is associated with the puppy phase. You will find that if you reserve snacks and treats as rewards for training, housebreaking and command training will go smoother. Read more: Feeding a Poodle 2- Start house training right away, keeping in mind that it is your commitment to the process that will bring about success. Generally, housebreaking takes 2 to 3 months. If your Poodle puppy will be expected to use an outdoor area, do not focus too much on indoor training when the pup is home along, since it is difficult for puppies to learn 2 different methods. Do keep in mind that young puppies should not be over-exercised since it can interfere with growth plate development; however a daily 20 to 30 minute per walk is perfect. Walks allow a puppy to release pent up energy, it expands their view of the world and is a good staring point for socialization techniques and learning proper heeling. Poodles are generally very active dogs. Aside from a walk each day, this breed loves to run , jump and show off their agility capabilities. Playing catch, Frisbee or training your Poodle to jump through hoops will keep them in good health, both physically and mentally. See also: Poodle Exercise Requirements 4- Begin a routine of grooming and care. While many puppies will balk at the idea of being brushed or having teeth cleaned, doing these tasks on a regular basis allows a puppy to become accustomed to being touched and taken care of. Taking care of the teeth during the puppy stage is important since dental hygiene will affect the adult teeth that have not yet erupted. Read more: Poodle dental care 5- Limit stress, focus on fun. One of the most important elements of Poodle care is to offer a loving, safe environment. Puppies and dogs are sensitive to their owner's moods and the atmosphere of the house in general. Puppies can become easily stressed in noisy, chaotic homes. Puppies should be given a designated area to retreat and rest if feeling overwhelmed. Often, a gated off area that is secured when a pup is home alone, but the entrance is open when owners are home works best. Speak to your pup in a pleasant voice and remember that positive reinforcement for good behavior works much better than scolding for bad behavior. Take time to puppy proof the home, clearing the floors of any small items and stowing away shoes and other objects to higher ground. This should be done before bringing a puppy home but also on a regular basis. See also: What it means when a Poodle puppy shakes - If a Poodle is suddenly shivering, you'll want to look to these top reasons. Poodle Winter Care - Everything you need to know about caring for your Poodle during the wintertime. Other Articles: Apricot Poodles - This is a super popular coat color. Details and photos. Black Poodles - Another gorgeous color. Poodle tear stains - Putting to rest the old myths on what works. A list of the most effective at-home treatments to remove stubborn stains. Poodle hair tangles - Due to the nature of the curly coat, tangles are not uncommon yet should be removed as soon as possible with a method that does not affect hair growth. Are You a Member Yet? When you sign up to become a Member of the site, this allows you to receive a friendly notice when new pages of information have been added. Always something to help keep your Poodle happy and healthy. All rights reserved. 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. Share Us. All Yawns. Polly Nance. Digital photograph. The cycle of life fascinates me, especially since I am mother of two, and I was delighted to witness this phase of life in the doggie-dog world. You could fit two of these lil cute thangs in the palm of one hand. Nancy, my mother in-law, has had this broken window at her house for a couple of months now… and I think it amuses her that I like to take pictures of it. It still mesmerizes me and so, I jumped at the opportunity to photograph a puppy through the cracks. It was difficult to discern what I was doing, since the sun was setting, but I still managed to come out with one photo I enjoyed. This one shot, however, reminded me of the film, The Lion King; the part where the monkey holds up baby Simba for all to see. My three year old son wanted one, naturally, but five animals and two kids and a husband are all that I can handle. Thank goodness no tears were shed. Anyways, I hope you enjoy these beautiful and precious puppy moments! Perfect Poodle Puppiness. A Fresh Puppy So Sleepy. Fresh, Brothers and Sisterly Love. Curls and Puppy Paws. The Texture of Puppy Sweetness. A Tiny Puppy Dangle. A Juxtaposition of Rest and Work.

Best calming aid for German Shepherds Supplements can help stressed, anxious German Shepherds by providing calming support in challenging situations. The idea is to help your dog feel calmer so they become more receptive to behavioral therapy techniques. In time, this will lead to a happier, more playful, and more confident dog and an improved quality of life for you both. Many calming aids use hemp extracts, CDB, or even valerian root to produce a relaxing effect on dogs. These additives help regulate various bodily functions such as sleep, appetite, and pain sensation. Some of them can also reduce inflammation, anxiety, and seizures in dogs. Start with a low dose to avoid any adverse effects such as nausea, lethargy, or diarrhea. Their use is part of a complete program that helps them adjust their reactions while going through a behavior modification program. More professional GSD breeders today, however, are committed to the health of their canines and actively support scientific research that aims to eradicate genetic diseases in GSDs. Supplements are no longer an afterthought. May guard against some allergies. Can provide pain relief for back, muscle, and joint pain that is chronic. Boost energy levels to support a healthy, active lifestyle. Caring for your German Shepherd is more than just a routine. Given the multitude of health problems in the breed, stay watchful and monitor for any abnormal behavior or health concerns. A supplement could help provide your GSD relief in some cases. See your veterinarian sooner rather than later. Supplement Safety Your top priority is safety when selecting supplements. Unfortunately, with little regulatory enforcement, there is a high potential for ineffective, or even unsafe, supplements that make fraudulent claims. So, how do you choose supplements for your German Shepherd that are safe and effective? First, you need to ask questions, such as: 1. How long have they been in business? Generally, the longer, the better. Contact the company with questions. How responsive are they? Who is involved with formulating the products? Nutritional experts and veterinarians are best. What kinds of claims are being made? Is there specific safety or efficacy research on this product? Is there a guaranteed analysis? Is there a lot number and expiration date? Have you consulted with your vet regarding giving them to your pet and what condition you hope to address? Typically, reputable supplement manufacturers have their products tested and approved by third-party organizations, such as the National Animal Supplement Council. Additionally, labels must indicate the contents accurately, and the products should be free from contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and harmful bacteria. Performing these quality checks beforehand could help minimize the risk of adverse side effects and ensure that your German Shepherd benefits from the supplement. Some common side effects to watch out for include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and allergic reactions. Consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns or notice any unusual reactions. Allergic reactions Allergic reactions to supplements can be serious, particularly in dogs with known food allergies. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling, hives, and vomiting. In severe cases, anaphylaxis can occur, which is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention. Seek veterinary advice if any adverse side effects occur. Upset stomach An upset stomach is a common issue that German Shepherds face. Certain supplements can help alleviate this discomfort. Probiotics are one such supplement known to promote healthy gut bacteria and improve digestive function. Other options include digestive enzymes, which can calm stomach inflammation and reduce nausea. Some side effects lessen with consistent use, while others may continue and require you to readjust the amount or type of supplement for your German Shepherd. Digestive problems Digestive problems in German Shepherds can range from mild discomfort to serious health issues. Supplements such as probiotics, digestive enzymes, and fiber can improve gut health and alleviate symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Unfortunately, side effects such as bloating or increased bowel movements could still occur even with supplements meant to quell those exact issues. Some supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and calming treats, have been shown to improve mood and reduce anxiety in German Shepherds. These mood-boosting supplements can still cause side effects, such as vomiting or diarrhea, or not work as you anticipated. Discontinue use if necessary, and contact your vet for further treatment in this case. Consulting a Veterinarian Before Giving a Supplement to a German Shepherd It cannot be overstated how crucial it is to consult with a veterinarian before giving any supplements to your German Shepherd. They can also identify any pre-existing health conditions, as certain supplements can interact negatively with other medications or might not be suitable for treating with supplements. Ultimately, seeking the guidance of a veterinarian can prevent adverse reactions and ensure your dog receives the best possible care. The fact that supplementation with these nutrients can help with so many problems shows that some supplements are a good choice for treating certain diseases. The best supplements for German Shepherds are:. Sometimes, supplements can do more harm than good. When should I start giving my German Shepherd puppy supplements? Most supplements can be given to your German Shepherd puppy as early as 12 weeks of age. The exception is calcium supplements, which you should never give to a puppy under 1 year old. Too much calcium can cause bones to develop too quickly, causing long term pain and joint damage. However, since German Shepherds are predisposed to developing joint issues, joint supplements are advised to be started as early as 3 months old. Keep in mind that giving supplements to your puppy could mask underlying health conditions, such as stomach problems, and make the issues hard to detect and treat. Does my German Shepherd puppy need a multivitamin? Yes, German Shepherd puppies 3 months and older need supplements, especially those for their hips, joints, stomach soothers, and improving their itchy skin and dry coats. Usually, dogs should get all the vitamins they need from a balanced diet. But in some cases, modern dog food manufacturing processes kill off essential nutrients. Multivitamin supplements, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and omega-3 oils are generally safe for puppies 12 weeks of age and older. And almost all German Shepherd puppies should be given joint supporting supplements due to their predisposition for joint-related issues. This means that you must perform your own due diligence to make sure you select safe supplements. Each supplement has its own benefits and drawbacks, which you must also take into account. Too much is a bad thing When giving multiple supplements, beware of overdosing to avoid giving too much of a good thing. In fact, more than necessary could cause unwanted side effects. Watch out for imbalances The majority of German Shepherds react well to supplements. But when giving vitamins or minerals to puppies, extra caution should be taken. This is because these supplements can lead to a nutritional imbalance that can be harmful to growing puppies. Always talk to your vet Your vet is the best resource for advice on giving supplements to your German Shepherd. Too much calcium can cause excessive bone growth which damages their joints. This fast growth can also lead to long term pain, hip issues, and other growth disorders. Supplements made for humans contain higher doses of vitamins than your dog needs. You could accidentally give them serious complications by using human supplements. With high amounts of iron and calcium, prenatal vitamins could cause iron toxicity in puppies. This can lead to serious side effects. Other vitamins, such as vitamin D, can cause organ damage in dogs. An overdose of Vitamin D can cause kidney failure. Keep your German Shepherd puppy away from caffeine! It has antibacterial properties and is therefore also found in dental hygiene products, such as mouthwash or toothpaste. The amount of xylitol found in different products varies. But shockingly, even pieces of gum may be enough to cause toxic effects in a dog source! Always keep human food and hygiene products away from your puppy. You never know what ingredient might actually cause serious problems or even fatalities in your pup. Certain supplements can give your pup a healthier lifestyle, like:. If your puppy is picky, try these vitamins out. They contain ten minerals and eight vitamins that are essential for German Shepherd puppy development. These affordable vitamins work great for a pup that has food sensitivities. They also contain colostrum and blue algae that is good for the immune system of the puppy. They improve the digestive system, skin, and overall health of your German Shepherd. Pros They have 8 essential vitamins and 10 minerals They have great flavor Good for a picky dog Cons Puppy can overeat them as treats What to Consider when Buying Vitamins for German Shepherd Puppies Taste Understand what flavor your puppy likes first before buying supplements. To encourage your puppy to take the vitamins, they need to like the taste of what you give them. Ingredients Prioritize what your puppy needs the most in the vitamins. If your vet recommends more minerals, buy the supplements that contain minerals. If your puppy has digestion issues, buy supplements with digestion benefits. Allergies Puppies are sensitive to what they take. Read carefully the ingredients used in the vitamins before buying them. Avoid ingredients that are harsh for your puppy or those that might cause allergies. Related: Are German Shepherds Hypoallergenic? Conclusion The German shepherd puppy needs vitamins for growth and proper development. Vitamin supplements play an important role in facilitating growth. They also help with skin issues, digestion problems and boost the overall immunity of the puppy. Some of the vitamins taste as good as treats. If you are looking for vitamins with many added benefits, Multifunctional Supplements for Dogs is a good package for your puppy. It is also good for pups with sensitive skin and is a value pack for your money. Related Posts:. Extremely poised with terrific protective instincts, German Shepherds are fearless but not overly aggressive. Much like most breeds, they require regular visits to the veterinarian and a certain level of care and attention to keep them healthy, active and strong. The Use of Supplements: In Support of a Healthier German Shepherd The German Shepherd breed is traditionally one of the most unhealthy breeds due to decades of popularity and unwise breeding. However, today's professional GSD breeders are dedicated to the health of their dogs and supporting scientific research to help eliminate genetic diseases in GSDs. Supplements are no longer an afterthought but an important element for your German Shepherd's nutrition and care. Animal Necessity recommends consulting your veterinarian regarding the types of supplements that could benefit your dog's physical health and mental well-being. Some of the benefits supplements may provide for your German Shepherd include: May help alleviate certain types of cancers, in addition to heart disease, diabetes, and cataracts caused by diabetes. Help keep your dog's coat healthy and shiny. May prevent certain types of allergies. Relief from chronic hip, joint, back, and muscle pain. Can boost your dog's intake of vital nutrients missing in its diet. Increase energy levels in support of an active and healthy lifestyle. However, today's professional GSD breeders are dedicated to the health of their dogs and to supporting scientific research to help eliminate genetic diseases in GSDs. Fun Facts about the German Shepherd Few breeds rival their intelligence and ability to assimilate and retain training. Possess a unique dignity and stature with a show dog "pose" of one rear leg under the body and one extended. Does not give affection lightly but will show serious loyalty, especially to its owner or main caretaker. Morris Frank was the first American to benefit from having a Guide Dog. German Shepherds are the most common breed to be affected with EPI. If not treated, the dog will starve even if they are fed a lot of food. Bloat Gastric Dilatation Volvulus German Shepherds are prone to developing gastric dilatation volvulus GDV , which is also called bloat, gastric torsion, or twisted stomach. This is a life-threatening condition in which the stomach twists on itself, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and other abdominal organs such as the spleen. It strikes very suddenly and a dog that is fine one minute can be dead a few hours later. Cancer German Shepherds are particularly prone to a type of cancer called hemangiosarcoma - cancer of cells that line blood vessels. Organs commonly affected include the spleen, the heart, and the tissue beneath the skin. The tumor can spread to other organs, such as the lungs, liver, and intestines. The tumor is "hidden" and grows very slowly, but eventually it can rupture and the dog bleeds internally. It is a genetic mutation in GSDs, striking primarily older dogs, and leads to the loss of many bodily functions, including progressive paralysis - first of the hindlimbs and then the forelimbs. Immune-mediated Disease German Shepherds are "the breed" for immune-mediated disorders. A deranged immune process can commonly affect nearly every organ system of this breed. The immune system commonly attacks: the thyroid gland, the pancreas, the eyes, the GI tract, muscles, and joints. Other tissues are also fair game in the GSD. Hypothyroidism is very common in GSDs and is a lack of thyroid hormone due to destruction of the thyroid gland. Common signs are weight gain, lethargy, thinned haircoat, and skin infections. Diabetes Germen Shepherds are at risk for developing diabetes, which is a serious disease. It is also a sad fact that almost all diabetic dogs will soon be blinded by secondary cataracts. In addition to veterinary care and proper diet, specific nutritional supplementation can help support diabetic dogs, and also help prevent formation of secondary cataracts. Care Information for Your German Shepherd Caring for your German Shepherd is more than just a routine - it's a healthy lifestyle that is will reap great rewards for you and your dog. See your veterinarian early, rather than later. Wellness is the key to good health in your dog! Nutrition German Shepherds require a quality, balanced high protein diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support their size, physical activity and predisposition for certain diseases. Food with essential fatty acids are important for maintaining her healthy coat and to help reduce shedding. As they age and activity slows, a GSD's diet must change to prevent obesity. A diet rich in antioxidants can have long-term benefits, especially as your dog ages. Shelter German Shepherds are not suited for life restricted to the backyard and need to live indoors as a member of the family. However, with enough exercise and attention, GSDs can thrive in an apartment or on a vast ranch. They are naturally protective and will alert you to strangers or intruders. However, if you welcome someone into your home, your German Shepherd will usually accept them, too. She will also get along with other pets in the household. Exercise German Shepherds are an active, thinking breed and are working dogs and service dogs, so they need a job! Give them things to DO - not only to exercise their bodies but stimulate their minds. If they are bored, they can be destructive and demolish your house. Taking your dog for long walks, playing catch or have them chase a ball. One-on-one obedience training can be critical to her mental health and physical well-being. Grooming Routine grooming of your German Shepherd will enable you to inspect their coat, teeth, eyes, ears, and nails for signs of problems. Since they shed heavily throughout the year, they need to be brushed frequently and bathed regularly but not so often as to remove the protective oils in their coat that could lead to skin problems. Besides keeping the nails trimmed short, consider placing special ToeGrips rubber rings on the trimmed nails. These provide instant traction to stop dogs sliding on smooth floors or stairs. Share This Guide: What People Are Saying About Supplements and Their Pets Pet owners just like you are incorporating supplements into their animal's care more than ever before, and with exciting results. Our vet doesn't understand how, but Buddy can see even though he has the big bright green glow from the PRA and the fog from the cataracts. He doesn't get eye infections anymore and there is less brown crud in his eyes. He is walking a little better, putting more pressure on the leg and not limping as much. The results were amazing! Cocoa has regained 50 percent vision in her left eye and she can now catch treats! We were told when her PRA was diagnosed that she would lose her sight completely within a year. It's been two years now and, although she can't see at night, she still sees during the day and you would never know she has a problem with sight. I was told she would be blind within 5 months. I am so thankful she was able to receive this supplement. Thank you so much! This is definitely a plus! Almost two years after his initial diagnosis - there has been no further development of his cataracts. I'm grateful to be among those who can speak personally for its benefits. Apples are a source of vitamins A and C. Bananas are high in useful potassium for your dog. Blueberries will go a long way toward preventing cell damage. Brocolli is low in fat and high in fiber. Brussel sprouts are low in fat and contain vitamins A, C, B1 and B6. Try them frozen. Celery is high in fiber and especially good if your dog is overweight. Cranberries are safe to give to your dog, but whether or not your dog can stand the tartness is another story. Cucumbers are low in sodium and fat, and dogs seem to love the juicy crunch they get from eating them. Green beans contain vitamins B6, A, C, and K, as well as protein, iron, and calcium. One of the healthier snacks of the bunch. Mangos are fine as long as you keep the seed away from your dog. Oranges are a sweet and safe treat. Just be aware of their high sugar content. Peaches are another sweet treat, just make sure to stay away from canned peaches — and never give your dog the pit, as it can choke on it. Pears have lots of fiber and vitamins A and C. Peas like green beans are among the healthiest snacks for your dog — lots of vitamins and also zinc, potassium, iron, and magnesium. Pineapples are full of vitamins and minerals and are great to freeze and feed to your dog as a reward on a hot summer day. One of the healthiest fruits you can give to your dog. Raspberries have vitamin B, copper, folic acid, magnesium and are also great for dogs in need of losing weight. Watermelons are low calorie and great for hydrating your dog — but make sure that you remove the seeds and discard the rind. Seeds are a choking hazard and the rinds can cause an upset stomach. How often should you feed a German Shepherd puppy? The 3 times per day feeding was because my dog was a bit smaller than average — but for a large GSD, 4 times per day is more appropriate. The reason being that their metabolism is changing, and a 4 time per day feeding schedule may result in the puppy gaining unnecessary weight. Avoid the temptation to hand out snacks to your dog, no matter how much they may try to convince you that they are starving and need more food. And you also run the real risk of creating an expectation in your dog, which may lead to it becoming a picky eater. Doing so can give you a more clear handle on how often you should be feeding your German Shepherd puppy and how much it should be consuming during the course of the day. If a GSD puppy has too much food to process through its digestive system, it will begin to show in its stools. Soft or wet stool is a good indication that there is too much food for the puppy to digest or process through the digestive system. Even if you feel that your puppy is too skinny, do not dramatically increase its food intake. Do so gradually, and keep an eye on the consistency of their stools to give you an idea of how much of their increased food intake is actually being retained. Chewing on a bone also helps to stimulate saliva enzymes and to prevent the buildup of plaque — which also helps to prevent gum disease. Also, bones, in essence, keep your dog constructively occupied. It is, however, critical to make sure that you are giving your dog the right kind of bone to chew on, as the wrong kind of bone can pose a serious danger to its health. I recommend always using raw meat bones for your dog. Make sure that when you give your dog a bone that the size of it is appropriate to the size of your dog. This will prevent your dog from swallowing it — this happens more than you may think. German Shepherds, poor diets and obesity While the topic of obesity is ever-present in the lives of people, it is also an important consideration to take into account when it comes to your GSDs diet. Obesity is defined by an excess in body fat for both humans and dogs. And the condition also poses similar health risks to both. These risks are well documented in a number of studies conducted on the association between the life-span and body condition of dogs. That includes this study published in the Journal of Veterinary Medicine. Risk of premature death A key finding is that the risk of death increases in dogs that are overweight. The report states, in part: instantaneous risk of death for dogs in overweight body condition was greater than those in normal body condition J Vet Intern Med. Arthritis In dogs, just as in people, arthritis causes instability in bones that causes improper movement. This then leads to cartilage rubbing away until it is completely gone. And the final result is bone rubbing against bone when cartilage is no longer present to serve its intended function. This is an extremely painful experience for your dog. And the cause of it can often be traced to poor diet and insufficient exercise. So make sure that your dog is not only eating the appropriate amount of food, but that it is also getting the exercise needed to make efficient use of the caloric content of the food as well. German Shepherds and food allergies Dogs that develop food allergies are most often allergic to just one component in their diet, and that is most often proteins. This can be localized like on its ears or paws, but it can also present as a whole body itch for no apparent reason. The only way to diagnose a food allergy is by introduction of a hypoallergenic dog food for a length of time, typically weeks. Then if the symptoms disappear, the original suspect food is reintroduced to see if the allergy returns. If it does, then there will be a step by step process of adding proteins to the hypoallergenic food to see which exact protein is the cause of the allergy. This is, just as it sounds, not the fastest or most simple undertaking. Therefore, if you do suspect that your dog has a food allergy, your veterinarian is the best person to lead you and your dog through this process. Should a German Shepherd eat home-cooked meals? The best meal any animals, or even humans, can consume is something that has been prepared at home. It is likely to be fresher than any canned or packaged stuff that you find in the store. However, most dog owners are not adequately equipped or willing to deal with the complications that preparing home-cooked meals present. And because of the importance of your GSD getting all of the nutrients that it needs, this is not something that you should undertake unless you are adequately informed and fully prepared to do so. That extends well beyond just diet, although that is naturally the most important consideration to make. You need to know what you are doing. Using your best judgment is not appropriate here. If you do choose to make homecooked meals for your dog, it can be of great benefit to it. Just make sure that you consult with a dog nutritionist to guide you along the way and to provide you with exact recipes to feed to your dog. Can you afford it? Simply put, cooking a nutritionally complete diet for your dog at home is not cheap, and significantly more expensive than even the highest quality dog food. Ingredients like meat are not cheap and the serving requirements pound for pound are much higher than they are for a person. Also, home-cooked meals for your dog will require supplements in addition to basic store-bought ingredients, adding to the cost even more. You can realistically look at this expense like feeding another person with expensive tastes. If you are financially prepared to do that, then perhaps home-cooked meals for your GSD are something that you may want to consider. You want your German Shepherd to live a long, healthy and happy life — and its diet contributes significantly to this outcome. So take the time to be selective of the foods that you include in its diet and make informed choices. Your puppy will thank you. One question that dog owners often ask is whether their dog needs vitamins. For example, German Shepherds are a large breed of dog that requires a lot of exercise, and as a result, they tend to need more calories than other dog breeds. This means that dog food formulated for German Shepherds often contains more vitamins and minerals than food designed for smaller dog breeds. However, even German Shepherds may not need supplements if they are eating a balanced diet. In general, vitamins are only necessary if a dog is not getting enough of certain nutrients from their food. For example, some dog foods are fortified with vitamin C to help support the immune system. There are a few situations where your German Shepherd might benefit from vitamins or supplements. For example, if your dog is pregnant or nursing, it may need extra nutrients. Elderly dogs may also benefit from supplements, as they may not absorb nutrients as well as they did when they were younger. If your dog has a health condition that affects their ability to absorb nutrients, such as allergies or diabetes, they may also need supplements. Finally, some German Shepherds may be more active than others and require more calories and nutrients to maintain their weight. In these cases, your veterinarian may recommend vitamins or supplements to help ensure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need. German Shepherds are no exception. There are a few specific vitamins that are particularly important for this breed. It can be found in meat, dairy products, and green leafy vegetables. It is essential for a healthy skin and coat. It can be found in meat, fish, eggs, and milk. It is also a big help in energy production and the nervous system. It can be found in citrus fruits, tomatoes, potatoes, and green peppers. It can be found in fatty fish, such as salmon, fortified milk and cereal. It also helps to protect cells from damage. This vitamin can be found in vegetable oils, nuts, and leafy green vegetables. Vitamin K This vitamin helps your dog avoid blood clotting. It can be found in dark leafy green vegetables, such as kale and spinach. Other Supplements that German Shepherds Need Colostrum Colostrum is a type of milk produced by mammals shortly after giving birth. It is high in antibodies and other nutrients that support the immune system. These are important for German Shepherds because they help to protect them from disease. Probiotics Probiotics are live bacteria that help keep the gut healthy. These are great for dogs because they help to keep the digestive system functioning properly. Digestive enzymes Digestive enzymes help the body to break down food and absorb nutrients. They are particularly important for dogs with allergies or other digestive problems. Fish oil Fish oil is a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for joint health, brain function, and the immune system. These are vital for a German Shepherd because they help to keep them healthy and active. Coconut oil Coconut oil is a source of healthy fats that can help improve the coat and skin health of German Shepherds. It can also help with joint pain and inflammation. These are particularly important for German Shepherds, as they are a breed prone to joint problems. Green-lipped mussel Green-lipped mussel is a type of shellfish that is a source of omega-3 fatty acids. This supplement can help with joint pain and inflammation. Antioxidants Antioxidants help to protect cells from damage. They are important for the immune system and overall health. These are important for dogs because they help to keep them healthy and prevent disease. It is being studied for its ability to relieve pain, anxiety, and inflammation in dogs. These are helpful to German Shepherds as they can improve their quality of life. Here are five things you should avoid when giving your German Shepherd supplements: 1. Giving them too much of a good thing One of the biggest mistakes dog owners make is giving their dogs too much of a supplement, thinking that more is better. This can lead to serious health problems and even death. Make sure you always follow the recommended dosage on the supplement bottle. Talk to your vet about what supplements are best for your dog and always read the labels carefully. Make sure you only give your dog supplements that are specifically designed for dogs. Giving them expired supplements Just like with human vitamins, expired supplements can be dangerous for dogs. A healthy diet is the best way to keep your dog healthy and prevent disease. Tips On Choosing the Best Supplements for German Shepherds Make sure you consult your vet The best way to determine which supplements work best for German Shepherds is to talk with a veterinarian and get their advice. They have the necessary education and training in order to help you choose the best supplements for your pet based on its needs, size, breed, and age. Read labels carefully Labels are key when it comes to choosing the right vitamins for your German Shepherd because they can tell you what type of food will best suit them based on their nutritional requirements. Talk to your veterinarian to get their professional opinion on what would be the best supplement for your pup. Consider their diet If your German Shepherd is on a specific diet, be sure to select a supplement that is compatible with their food. For example, senior dogs may need more vitamin C to support their immune system, while puppies may need extra calcium for proper bone growth. There are many different types of vitamin supplements available for dogs, so it is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine which type is best for your dog. By ensuring that your dog is getting the correct amount of vitamins, you can help keep your pet healthy and strong. One way to guarantee that our German Shepherds are receiving the proper nutrients they need is through a comprehensive supplement plan. A solid supplement plan can help support your pup's overall health and well-being. While all dogs need vitamins and minerals, German Shepherds require even more due to their large size and high energy levels. Incorporating vitamins specific to German Shepherds into their regular diet can aid in maintaining their coat, joint health, and digestion. By providing your pup with a complete supplement plan tailored to their needs, you can feel confident that they are receiving the proper support for a happy and healthy life. These bites are a great source of vitamins that help improve the overall health of your pet. As German Shepherds are known for their intelligence and agility, it is essential to provide them with a healthy diet that supports their active lifestyle. With Zesty Paws 8-in-1 Bites, you can rest assured that your furry friend is receiving all the essential nutrients, including vitamins, and minerals for a healthy and happy life. These treats also come in a mouth-watering chicken flavor that your pup will surely love! Pet Honesty 10 in 1 Dog Multivitamin As pet owners, we want nothing but the best for our furry friends, which is why it's important to keep them healthy and happy. The Pet Honesty in-1 Dog Multivitamin is a fantastic product to help you achieve that goal. Specifically formulated for German Shepherds, this multivitamin is packed with all the necessary vitamins and minerals to help keep your pup in top shape. Vitamins like A, B12, and D3 play crucial roles in your dog's overall health, making this product a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With this multivitamin, you can rest assured that your furry best friend is getting all the nutrients they need to thrive. German Shepherds are very active dogs and as such, require a high protein and vitamin-rich diet to ensure their mobility is not jeopardized. Mobility Bites is packed with a combination of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, and eggshell membrane which work together to promote healthy joints, cartilage, and connective tissues. This supplement comes in a yummy chicken flavor and is easy to chew, making it enjoyable for your furry friend. It is advisable to consult your veterinarian first before starting on this or any nutritional supplement to ensure it fits your dog's specific needs. These furry companions require a lot of love and attention to stay healthy and active. However, sometimes even the best of diets can have gaps in essential nutrients, which is where Healthy Breeds German Shepherd Multi-Vitamin Soft Chews come into play. These soft chews are specially formulated to provide the right balance of essential vitamins for German Shepherds, supporting their immune system, heart health, and overall well-being. Made with all-natural ingredients, these chews are easy to administer and are a great way to ensure your furry companion is getting all the essential vitamins they need. German Shepherds, while strong, muscular and agile, require a balanced diet and adequate nutritional supplements to remain in optimal health. This is where the Healthy Breeds German Shepherd All in One Multivitamin Soft Chew comes in as it provides a convenient and effective solution for adding essential vitamins and minerals into your dog's diet. Each chew contains a carefully-blended and researched combination of vitamins and minerals that have several health benefits for German Shepherds, including improved joint health, enhanced skin and coat condition, and a strengthened immune system. The soft texture of the chew makes it easy for your dog to consume, and they're available in a variety of flavors. When it comes to keeping your German Shepherd healthy and happy, incorporating a multivitamin soft chew into their dietary regimen is an excellent place to start. VetPro Dog Vitamins and Supplements As pet owners, ensuring our furry friends are as healthy as possible is a top priority. This is where VetPro dog vitamins and supplements come in - these products offer an extra boost of nutrition to support your furry friend's overall well-being. But what sets VetPro apart from other options on the market? Specifically, their focus is on quality ingredients that are specifically tailored to different breeds. For example, VetPro offers a range of vitamins for German Shepherds, which are formulated to address some of the unique health needs of this breed. Whether you're looking to address a specific health concern or simply give your dog an extra boost, VetPro dog vitamins, and supplements are worth considering. However, like all dogs, they are also prone to developing joint issues as they age. That's where a balanced breed dog multivitamin glucosamine chondroitin dog joint supplement comes in handy. This supplement is packed with essential vitamins and nutrients that help support your German Shepherd's overall health, while also providing targeted support for their joint health. Glucosamine and chondroitin are two key ingredients that work together to promote joint health and mobility, allowing your furry friend to stay active and comfortable throughout their golden years. So if you want to ensure that your German Shepherd stays healthy and happy for years to come, consider adding a balanced breed dog multivitamin glucosamine chondroitin dog joint supplement to their daily routine. Coco and Luna 10 in 1 Multivitamin for Dogs As a pet owner, you always want to make sure that your furry friend is getting the best care possible. German Shepherds, in particular, are known to be large and energetic dogs that require plenty of exercise and nutrition to stay healthy. This multivitamin supplement is specifically formulated for dogs and contains a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can improve overall health and vitality. But did you know that even with a healthy diet, your dog may still not be getting all the necessary nutrients? Formulated specifically for dogs like German Shepherds, this supplement packs a powerful punch of vitamins and minerals that work together to improve your dog's overall health and well-being. With ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, it also supports joint health and can help prevent joint-related issues that are common in larger breeds. Plus, with its easy-to-chew form, your pup will look forward to getting his daily dose of nutrition. These easy-to-administer vitamins are specially formulated to support joint health and overall well-being. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin E and B12, NaturVet's blend is tailored to meet the nutritional needs of older dogs. Plus, the added Glucosamine helps to support joint health - a common concern for aging dogs. These daily vitamins contain everything from antioxidants to support a healthy immune system, to omega-3s for healthy skin and coat. However, like all dogs, they have specific health needs that must be addressed to keep them happy and thriving. This targeted supplement is packed with essential vitamins and nutrients specifically formulated to support the unique health needs of German Shepherds. From hip and joint support to immune system boosters, this supplement is designed to provide the comprehensive care that every German Shepherd deserves. So, if you're looking for a way to give your furry companion the best chance at a long, healthy life, WoofWell Breed-Specific Health Support Supplement is the perfect choice. Zesty Paws Probiotics for Dogs As pet owners, we all want our furry friends to live long, healthy, and happy lives. That's why it's important to ensure that our dogs are getting all the nutrients they need, including probiotics. Probiotics help boost gut health, which in turn promotes a strong immune system and supports regular digestion. Zesty Paws Probiotics for Dogs is a great option for those looking to supplement their dog's diet. Specifically formulated with a blend of probiotics and prebiotics, these vitamins for German Shepherds help maintain digestive and immune health. Additionally, they may also help with skin and coat health, which is especially important for breeds prone to skin irritations. Give your furry friend the gift of good health with Zesty Paws Probiotics for Dogs. Pet Naturals Daily Multivitamin for Dogs As pet owners, we want to ensure that our furry friends are receiving the best possible care to maintain their health and well-being. One important aspect of caring for our canine companions is providing them with the necessary vitamins and nutrients. Pet Naturals Daily Multivitamin for Dogs is an excellent option for German Shepherds and other breeds, as it contains a balanced blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support their overall health. From boosting immune function to promoting healthy skin and coat, this daily multivitamin has been formulated to meet the specific needs of dogs. So if you want to give your furry friend an extra boost of wellness, consider trying Pet Naturals Daily Multivitamin for Dogs. This supplement is specifically designed for senior dogs, including those of the German Shepherd breed, to provide them with key vitamins and minerals to support their overall health and wellness. With ingredients like antioxidants to boost immunity, digestive enzymes for better nutrient absorption, and CoQ10 to support heart health, this supplement is a fantastic addition to any senior dog's diet. Conclusion In conclusion, the well-being and vitality of our German Shepherds are of paramount importance, and providing them with the necessary vitamins is crucial for their overall health. By incorporating the 16 best vitamins specifically formulated for German Shepherds into their daily regimen, we can strengthen their immune system, promote optimal joint and bone health, support their cognitive function, and enhance their coat and skin condition. With these valuable resources, we can continue to provide our German Shepherds with the highest level of care, ensuring they lead healthy, active, and joyful lives for years to come. Related Content.

Mine has congenital issues, they are not curable, but can be treated. I am in hopes that he makes good on his word that he will refund me my money. He does have issues answering e-mails and calls, however, I finally sent him a certified letter and that got his attention. I now have his word in writing that I will get my money back. Me sweetheart went through thousands of dollars in testing, medications and vet visits. I had to save her life, she was part of the family. She is a great pup, a wonderful addition and I wouldn't trade her for anything. If your pup has symptoms like these, have your vet do a TAMU panel blood test if you vet won't then see Dr Walker in Orange Park at the vet specialists, he in Internal medicine and the disease is his specialty. EPI for short this means that the pups pancreas is not forming the correct enzymes to digest food, they will eat and eat but nothing gets absorbed. I hate to say this but because of no nutrition, they can have a secondary condition that involves the heart. My pup was first diagnosed with a heart condition, but then after months of heart meds, she was not getting better. It is genetic and a combination of parents genes, so if one in the litter has it, the chance of the rest of the litter becomes huge. However it does not just affect the dog as a puppy, it can show up at any time in their life, 2 years, 5 years etc.I can not stress enough, this can be treated. Share A Story! French Bulldog Rescues In Florida A small commission may be earned on any purchases made via links on this page. Read our full affiliate disclosure. French Bulldog Rescues In Florida French bulldogs make excellent pets and deserve all the love and care they can get. They are small and adorable and have one of the best personalities among all dog breeds. This is why they have become a favorite breed for people who are looking for a new dog. For the people living in Florida, getting a french bulldog as a pet requires a bit of consideration. While they are quite playful, they do not do very well in hot climates as Florida has. This does not mean that you can not get a french bulldog as a pet if you live in Florida. It just means that you should take extra measures to ensure that they are comfortable, such as keeping a cool house and walking them in the late evenings when it might be cooler outside. If you are willing to make these concessions and are actively looking to adopt a french bulldog, this is the best place to start your search. We have curated a list of the best french bulldog rescues in Florida. We also provide you with the necessary information you need to know on how they work, how to adopt, as well as how to contact the rescue. These rescues are charged with taking care of these dogs and finding a good home for them. If you are in Florida and are looking to adopt a French Bulldog, this list is for you. Florida English Bulldog Rescue Odessa, FL This rescue is a nonprofit bulldog rescue dedicated to finding new forever homes for bulldog breeds. They have been rescuing bulldogs since .They have helped more than 1, dogs get new homes, and each of the bulldogs gets rehabilitation so that they can be a functional part of their new home. The thing about this particular nonprofit is that they do not focus on french bulldogs. In fact, on the surface, it looks more like their primary focus is English bulldogs. But they have stated that they are open to different bulldog breeds, including the French bulldog. The main difference between an English bulldog and a French bulldog is their size. Florida English Bulldog Rescue seeks out neglected and abused dogs and provides them with rehabilitation and new homes. They also provide a safe home for bulldogs who have no option but to leave their homes. They always have a bulldog ready for anyone who wants to take one home. You can view their available bulldogs here. If you are passionate about helping bulldogs get a better home, you can also help the organization through donations and sending supplies. They are always looking for volunteers.

Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. For the complete list please see our German Shepherd Breeders Regional list page. How much does a German Shepherd puppy sell for? There is no average price because there are many different factors that come into play when determining what a breeder charges for their puppies. A reputable German Shepherd breeder will be able to tell you what the going rate is in your area and can also help you choose the right puppy. Rescues and shelters do not always follow the same guidelines as breeders, but they often have beautiful mature pups of all ages looking for loving homes. Puppy mills and pet stores usually have a set price which is often much cheaper than a reputable breeder who must factor in the cost of a quality diet, vet bills, professional stud fees, caring for mother dog and any other costs associated with breeding. Responsible German Shepherd breeders will have a website that provides information about the puppies, parents and the breeder. They will also have health clearances for both parents. The breeder should also offer a guarantee on the health of the puppy and be able to provide references from previous buyers. It is important to remember that not all German Shepherds are bred by reputable breeders. Some may be from backyard breeders or puppy mills which can result in genetic disorders, poor temperament and other health problems. Always do your research before purchasing a puppy to make sure you are getting a healthy, well-socialized dog from a responsible breeder. Vermont is a beautiful state with so much to offer. There are many German Shepherd breeders who can help you find that perfect puppy for you and your family. Visit Your Vermont German Shepherd Breeder in Person When you are looking at German Shepherd puppies for sale in Vermont, it is always a good idea to visit the breeder before purchasing your puppy. This way you can see where the dogs are living and being cared for. You will also have an opportunity to interact with them so that if problems arise later on, you know who to contact. The breeders should be welcoming of potential buyers visiting their kennel or home so feel free to ask them about anything you would like to know. There are many different types of German Shepherds bred; show lines, working lines, long-haired vs short haired, etc. A reputable breeder should be able to help you understand the differences and help you choose the right puppy for you. This will give you a good indication of what to expect as far as the temperament and living conditions of your new puppy. You should be able to view the kennel first-hand so you know exactly where your pup is coming from. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in Vermont A good breeder will provide you with references for people who have purchased their puppies. This enables you to contact them and ask about their experience as well as the health of their new puppy. The references are a great way to get an idea of what type of person or family the breeder is, not just how they raise their dogs. If a breeder is reluctant to provide you with references, it may be a sign that something is amiss. If they are not willing to provide you with this information, there may be an underlying reason why. This will give you a firsthand account of what your experience with the breeder will be like. Just as references are important, so are past buyers who have had a positive experience with the breeder. Meeting past owners will help you get a better understanding for what type of personality your puppy will have. It is also good to meet past customers so that if problems arise in the future, you can be put in contact with them and they can help you resolve the issue. If a breeder is reluctant to let you meet past owners or see where they have been housed this could also be a big red flag that there may be something wrong with the kennel. A good breeder will have a veterinarian they use and trust. Ask to see their veterinary records and take a look at them if possible. If they refuse or are unable to provide these records it may be best not to purchase your puppy from this kennel Setting Up Your Puppies Veterinarian If you are purchasing a puppy from a breeder, it is important to make sure that you have a good veterinarian as well. This is someone who will take care of your pup throughout their life and can help you with any questions or problems that may arise. It is always important to have a good relationship with your veterinarian because they can help keep your dog healthy and answer any questions you may have about their health. There are many ethical breeders out there who will be more than happy to answer your questions and provide you with all the information you need. A good breeder will be able to provide information about the parents of the puppies and will have all of their veterinary records. If the breeder cannot provide this information, or if they seem hesitant to answer your questions, it may be best to walk away. There is no point in purchasing a puppy if he or she has health problems that may cost you a lot of money in the future. This is especially important if you are bringing an 8-week old pup into your house. Here are some things you may need to do before your new German shepherd arrives: Make sure that all of the windows in your house that face outside have screens. Purchase a crate for them to sleep in at night. Make sure it is large enough for them to stand up and turn around, but small enough so he or she feels safe and secure. So if your dog will be 24 inches at shoulder height, purchase a crate that is 16 inches high. When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder in Vermont it is important to ask questions. Set up a small area for them to eat and potty in. This can be a simple designated space with a potty pad and some food and water bowls. Get some toys. Puppies love to play, so make sure you have plenty of things for them to chew on and play with. Start training your new pup. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down will be important for them to learn. By preparing your home before your puppy arrives, you can help make the transition easier for both of you. Potty Training Your New German Shepherd Puppy One of the most important things to do when you bring home a new puppy is to start potty training them immediately. German Shepherds are smart dogs and can be potty trained relatively easily, but it will require some patience on your part. The first thing you need to do is set up a designated spot for your puppy to potty in. This can be an area outside with a potty pad or even just a small corner of your house. Within a few weeks, your puppy will get the hang of it and will be able to go potty on their own. When you take them outside, they will most likely do their business right away. If you bring them inside afterward they may want to re-potty in the same area again. If accidents occur or your pup starts having problems with going potty, talk with your veterinarian about getting some supplements to help encourage them to go correctly. A good tip is to take your puppy out first thing in the morning, last thing at night, and then one more time sometime in between those times every day. The sooner you start potty training your German Shepherd, the easier it will be for both of you. Your home will be free from accidents and your pup will be able to feel comfortable and safe in his or her new surroundings. Happy Hunting!! 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. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Vermont? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Vermont cost? Am I restricted to local litters and breeders? No, not at all! When you pick a breeder from our network, you have the choice of going to them to pick up your new German Shepherd Vermont puppy yourself, or having your pooch flown to your nearest major airport excluding Alaska and Hawaii. How do you screen all the different breeders? On a daily basis, we get applications from breeders and businesses nationwide, all wanting to join Uptown. What makes Uptown Puppies so different? But sadly, many German Shepherd breeders Vermont see their German Shepherd puppies only in terms of money, and care little for their welfare. Our aim is simple - bring all the best breeders in the country together in one place, making it easy for loving families like yours to connect with them. What is a puppy mill and are they common? Puppy mills are wretched places that breed countless sickly, poorly behaved German Shepherd puppies Vermont. These horrible places keep their dogs in crumpled, dirty conditions that would make you sick just to look at. A German Shepherd bred in a mill will have a lower life expectancy, and will likely cost you thousands in extra vet bills. Are backyard breeders similar? The main similarity is that backyard breeders also see German Shepherd puppies in Vermont only in terms of making money. Backyards breeders tend to be inexperienced and incompetent, bringing their German Shepherd for sale in Vermont puppies up in squalid conditions. Their puppies tend to be poorly socialized and in bad health. How does Uptown Puppies work anyway? If you want to get started on finding your perfect Vermont German Shepherd for sale right away - look no further! Just take a look through our comprehensive list of available litters, and then connect to the company or breeder of your choice. Then you can either collect your German Shepherd in person, or have your dog flown to your nearest major airport. Can I really trust you? The best breeders deserve to be showcased, so they can be found by the best families. We work hard to connect you with the most experienced and reputable breeders, helping you to build your family and make beautiful memories. What are the origins of the German Shepherd breed? German Shepherds were first bred in Germany at the tail end of the 19th century. To create the best sheepdogs, the most intelligent, easy to train dogs were selected - and Vermont German Shepherds for sale were the end result. Since part of their role was to guard sheep from wild animals, they also make excellent watchdogs.

Not only are they known for their exuberant and friendly personality, but they make for excellent hunting dogs. They also are an ideal breed for service animals and search and rescue. These medium-sized dogs are also known for their luxurious golden coats. Their beautiful fur makes them a sought after breed, not only for their friendly personality. However, with a gorgeous coat also comes upkeep. Consistently grooming a Golden Retriever is an important part of being a pet owner as grooming helps keep them clean and prevent other issues. Since Golden Retrievers have a double coat, they are extremely big shedders. Read on to learn more about the grooming a Golden Retriever requires and how to manage it. They will be familiar with the scissors and brush. Getting them comfortable with being handled by yourself and groomers is a good step for a positive experience for everyone involved. Weekly brushing is important for your Golden Retriever. It will help keep their coat fresh and let you check for any wounds. There are many different types of pet brushes out there, so finding the best one for your pup is important. You want to make sure the bristles or pins of the brush are long enough to get through their thick coat without hurting their skin. A lot of brushes will have retracting pins, making for easy cleaning. A good brush will also keep their coat clean, removing any dander and dirt. You will also want to look for a brush with a larger head since a Golden Retriever is a medium-sized dog. Shedding and How to Curb It Grooming your dog will help rid their fur of fleas, keep them clean, ensure their coat is well taken care of, and most importantly, help with the dreaded shedding. That is where the groomer will blow out their coat with a high powered velocity dryer. In addition to brushing your dog out weekly, they need to be groomed every 8 to 10 weeks. Your golden will shed the most during spring and fall as they get rid of and then prepare for their winter coat. They can be harmful to your dog and its coat. Feeding your Golden Retriever a good amount of protein and Omega 3s will curb any excessive shedding. They will be healthy and so will their coat. Staying on top of their nutrition and exercise will ensure your dog is happy and healthy. Golden Retriever Grooming Cuts While many people may want to groom their pets at home, leaving it to the professionals is the best option. Weekly brushing can easily be done at home. Most people do not have the proper set up in their homes to effectively wash and clean their dog. A professional groomer can provide a lot of different types of services that cannot be performed at home. In addition to trimming their nails and fur on their paws, they can also give your dog a haircut. The preferred style of cut for Golden Retrievers is the Simple Trim. A groomer will do some light trimming and feathering. They also will thin out their fur around the chest and neck. The Teddy Coat involves a bit more trimming. The groomer will trim the tail as well, along with the legs and feet. They will make sure it is done properly. Grooming a Golden Retriever While everyone loves a cuddly pooch, staying on top of grooming a golden retriever is an important part of being a successful pet owner. Know what things are okay for you to do at home and what services need to be done by professionals. Golden Retrievers have a double coat, consisting of an undercoat and an overcoat. The combination coat is designed to keep the dog at a comfortable temperature in any season. If you were to trim the entire coat, it would inhibit this natural heating and cooling system. You should not need to use clippers to trim a Golden Retriever. The edges usually get a lot of fuzzy hair growth, so that needs to be cleanly trimmed away with scissors. Next, trim in between your Golden Retriever's toes. Take your comb and brush up the hair between its toes. Then trim it away at the level of the top of the pup's feet. Then comb it all back down. It should now be above the level of the dog's pads. Also inspect the Golden Retriever's pads while you are focusing on their feet. Apply Vaseline if you find any cracked pads and decide whether your pup needs its nails trimmed. Trim the fur on the back of the dog's legs with your thinning shears. You don't need to remove all the longer fur that grows near their rear end, but you want the coat to look balance and symmetrical. Focus your attention on trimming off fuzzy and unkempt fur. The fur on the back of the legs will be longer than the fur on the front of the legs. The hair on the back of the legs should be a few inches long, flaring out a bit behind the dog, while the fur on the front will lay flat against the dog. Begin by using your thinning shears around the dog's shoulders if a ridge of hair has formed there. Then move your attention to the front of the dog, thinning the hair on its chest until it lies flat. The length of your dog's fur will vary. A Golden Retriever doesn't have a short, tight coat, but instead has some length to it. When trimming your dog's coat, focus more on trimming fuzzy and unkempt fur, instead of trimming to a specific length. If you are unsure if you have removed enough hair, comb the coat out and see if the coat is lying flat. The goal is to have a nice flat coat that is balanced and symmetrical. As you trim, move the thinning shears with the direction of the growth. Using the thinning shears to trim the neck and chest will give the dog a more natural look. Thin the fur around the front and back of the ears. This will be important to keeping your dog's ears healthy. Then trim the fur on the ears, taking stray hairs off the top of them with the thinning shears. Don't make the tail fur too short. You just want to trim the length by tapering it from the base to the tip, using thinning shears to make it look natural. This trimming is usually done on the ears, feet, neck and tail for a Golden Retriever to keep them looking smart. When should you start grooming your Golden Retriever puppy? Golden Retriever grooming should begin in their puppy phase to get them used to the process. These double-coated dogs are shedders that will need regular grooming in adult life to stimulate their coats, keep shedding under control and prevent mats and tangles. A Golden Retriever's coat doesn't develop properly until around 18 months, and as a puppy, your dog will have soft hair, which will form the undercoat once the overcoat develops. Get your puppy used to grooming by brushing its hair regularly with a soft-bristled brush, then moving onto a slicker brush as it ages and its coat begins to develop. If you plan on having your puppy professionally groomed, it's recommended to take it for its first trip to the groomer at around eight to twelve weeks old so it can get used to the grooming process and the salon. Golden Retrievers have a double coat which work together to protect your pup in both the winter and the summer months. Even clipping is not advisable with your Golden Retriever as it can hinder the growth of the undercoat later in the year. Instead, keep up with brushing their hair perhaps even doing it more regularly to remove the dead loose hair and regular bathing. Ideally, you need to be looking to purchase a dog shampoo that contains Oatmeal and Vitamin E. Regular brushing will reduce the amount of matting and make each brush a bit easier and softer. Use thinning scissors and begin to trim past where your thumb is, taking small bit by bit. Taking your time this way you should eventually reach your desired length. Recommended Products.

Click here to see us on our page! We raise mainly Australian Multigenerational Labradoodles, but also have added Multigen English Goldendoodles as well as Multigen Cockapoos in limited breedings. Our Breeding stock comes from only the finest lines, that have been thoroughly tested for health and screened for temperament. That said, I am a "normal" mom with "normal" kids, - whatever that means - now, with the added love of DOGS! As I began this search for the perfect puppy for my "near perfect" children, I needed our prospective pup to be allergy friendly and non-shedding to accommodate my children and my lack of wanting to vacuum , as well as intelligent and mild mannered. After extensive research, I ended up with our first two Australian Labradoodles, and the rest is history. Because of their temperament and intelligence, well bred and nurtured Doodles are increasingly being trained formally as Therapeutic Companions. Because I left my "professional world" to stay home with my children, and only after seeing the benefits this breed has had for us, I decided to take it a step further and involve our children and other families in this latest endeavor. I soon decided to add Cockapoos as well, as they possess many of the same traits that we so desire. Trained formally or not, these dogs are just plain wonderful! Much time is devoted to each dog and puppy, always raised in homes as pets, therefore developing the finest of the Breeds! If nothing else, you may get a smile if not a laugh at our pix! We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Lincoln California and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Lincoln, CA? We have answers. What's the most interesting thing about Labradoodle puppies for sale near Lincoln? Labradoodles are fascinating dogs! Not only do they have the intelligence of a Labrador and the playfulness of a poodle, but they're also incredibly loyal and loving companions. They thrive in human company and need lots of regular exercise and playtime. One of the most interesting traits of Labradoodles is their hypoallergenic and low-shedding coat, making them easy to maintain while still remaining the perfect family pet. Their hybrid traits give them great versatility and personality, making them a perfect fit for most households. Are Labradoodle puppies for sale in Lincoln non-shedding? Labradoodles are generally considered low-shedding, but this does not mean that they are truly non-shedding. Certain lines of labradoodles may be nearly non-shedding, but this is not a guarantee. Therefore, it is important to carefully investigate the particular pedigree of any particular labradoodle that you may be considering. Breeders may have different ways of breeding these puppies, which will ultimately result in varying levels of shedding. You will want to discuss this with the breeder before making a commitment. What should I feed Lincoln Labradoodle puppies for sale? Labradoodles are a unique breed, so it's important to feed them food that meets all their nutritional needs. Quality commercial dry kibble, preferably with a wholesome grain base, is a great option. Supplementing the dry kibble with cooked meats, eggs, and grains, as well as unsalted and unsweetened raw fruits and vegetables, is also an excellent choice. Make sure to feed only fresh food as mold, toxins, and contaminants in old or improperly stored foods can be dangerous. Also, ensure there is an adequate supply of fresh, clean water at all times. Am I ready to adopt Labradoodle puppies in Lincoln? To best prepare your home for a new Labradoodle, be sure to have supplies such as grooming tools, food and water dishes, chew toys and properly sized bedding. Also purchase a crate or carrier for travel and safe respite. Be sure to also have shampoos and flea control solutions available, as well as nail clippers for regular trimming. How big do Labradoodles for sale in Lincoln get? Labradoodles, which are a hybrid cross between a Labrador retriever and a standard or miniature poodle, typically grow to be medium in size. The standard size Labradoodle typically weighs between 45 and 65 pounds and is between 21 and 24 inches tall. The miniature Labradoodle can weigh between 20 and 40 pounds and stand between 12 and 16 inches tall. It is important to note that the size and weight of the Labradoodle can vary depending on its parent breeds and its generation, with first generation Labradoodles typically being bigger than later generations. How much exercise do Labradoodle puppies near Lincoln need? Labradoodles need a moderate amount of exercise. Generally, 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise is recommended, being sure to give your Labradoodle some time for some zoomies. This can come in the form of brisk walks, running, and playing fetch. If your Labradoodle lives in an apartment, you need to ensure that it has the opportunity to go outside and explore its environment. Some extreme weather, such as excessive heat or cold, may mean that your Labradoodle will need more or less exercising and you should adjust your exercise routine accordingly. Do Labradoodles in Lincoln get along with other pets? Labradoodles are generally good at getting along with other pets. They have gentle natures and are generally friendly to all animals, including cats and other dogs. That being said, the success of introducing a Labradoodle to other pets depends a great deal on the owner making sure that the Labradoodle is properly socialized. It's important for the owners to introduce the animals slowly, offer rewards, and have patience. If given the proper attention and guidance, most Labradoodles will form strong bonds with their furry companions. Are Lincoln Labradoodles for sale smart? Yes, Labradoodles are exceptionally intelligent dogs. As a hybrid breed created by breeding Labrador Retrievers and Poodles, their smartness comes from both of their parent breeds. Labradors are known for their eagerness to please and intelligence, while Poodles are recognized for their adaptability, problem-solving ability, and even tricks. Labradoodles combine these traits, making them loyal, friendly, and quick learners. With attentive training and regular practice, you can teach them to obey commands, play games, and even go on adventures.

Naturally, they depend on their mother and you to keep them safe and healthy. One of the most important parts of caring for newborn puppies is to keep them at the proper temperature. Here's how to keep newborn puppies warm. Why temperature is so critical Dogs are warm-blooded, which means they can maintain a specific body temperature. For adult dogs, normal body temperature is about .Once the puppy reaches a month old, their body temperature levels off to the normal body temperature for adult dogs. She could have a hard time nursing or suffer from a compromised immune system. How to keep newborn puppies warm When the mother dog and pups are healthy, the puppies depend on their mother to generate the additional warmth they need. This is one reason you see newborn puppies lying close to their mother. But you can help too! Provide the mother dog and the puppies with a suitable "nest" or whelping box. This is a safe, warm, and somewhat confined area that is free from drafts and distractions. You may want to supply the whelping box with an additional heat source. This will supplement the mother dog's body heat and help keep the area warm if she must step away from the box for a short time. Heat lamps can work for this purpose or choose a heating pad with an adjustable thermostat that's safe for pets. Be sure to talk with your vet for the recommended temperature setting that's right for your pups. They'll be better able to regulate their body heat by then. Pay attention to your puppies' behavior. It can actually provide clues as to whether they're too hot or too cold. If the puppies huddle close to each other under the heat source, it may mean they're too cold and are trying to use the group's body heat to stay warm. If the puppies are scattered in different areas of the box, it could mean they're too hot. If you're concerned about a particular puppy, you can always check their body temperature with a puppy-safe thermometer, just to be on the safe side! Providing proper warmth for newborn puppies is important. With a few simple supplies and some TLC, you can help keep newborn puppies warm. Payne, Laura. How long do puppies need a heat lamp? A heat lamp is a very cost effective way of keeping your puppies warm. Most lamps simply screw into a standard lightbulb socket and the lamp is then suspended at a safe height above the whelping box where the puppies live. You can also get complete heatlamp units that simply need hanging over the box and plugging in. You should provide your puppies with artificial heat until they are at least six weeks old. If the conditions are cold, then you should extend this until you are confident that the puppies are thriving and able to cope with temperature changes. What happens if a newborn puppy gets too cold? Newborn puppies are unable to generate their own body heat until they are around 3 weeks old when they develop the ability to shiver. If a puppy gets too cold then he can develop hypothermia which, in puppies is often fatal. The puppy will not be able to suckle to feed and his condition can deteriorate quickly. The whelping box that the puppies live in should be heated or should be in a warm place, such as a quiet area in your home that benefits from some form of heating. You should always provide a warm environment for your puppies to prevent any problems and minimise any potential risks. If a puppy does get cold then you should take him to a warm area and slowly raise his temperature to the normal range of between 98 to 99 degrees F. Do puppies need blankets? The base of the whelping box should be covered with some form of indestructible blanket or other covering. This serves two main purposes: It provides insulation between the base of the box and the puppies, helping to keep the puppies warm and reducing the amount of heat that is lost through the floor. Secondly the correct type of blanket will absorb any dampness that may occur from the puppies going to the toilet and other mishaps. There are many whelping box blankets and liners available for this purpose the Drymate Premium Whelping Box Liner is ideal as it is machine washable and can be cut to suit the sixe of your whelping box. The best ways to keep your puppies warm are to use a combination of items. You should use an overhead heatlamp and also a heating pad with adjustable temperature controls. Hot water bottles with thick covers are also good as puppies can curl up next to them or lie on top of them. If you can find old stone or ceramic hot water bottles then these are much sturdier and, with a cover over them, which can be easily made out of old clothing, you will keep your puppies warm and safe. Final Words Newborn puppies are tiny but hardy animals that grow quickly. They are dependant, however, on their mother and require conditions that keep them warm and safe to allow them to become healthy and fit dogs. There are a number of ways to keep your puppies warm and a variety of lamps and heating pads that you can get to help with this. If you are unable to buy heating equipment then, provided your home is warm enough and you can maintain the temperature in a quiet and private part of the house, then there is nothing to prevent you from keeping the puppies indoors until they are older. Remember too that if in any doubt, that your vet is always the best source of advice and information for your pet care needs. Read Next. August 15, July 25, Is your furry friend expecting? Prepping yourself and your pregnant dog can be a difficult and exhausting procedure, especially if you are new to the whelping process. Below we discuss some tips and essential items to have on hand, including a safe and controllable heating pad for dogs. Pre-Birth Care Your dog will need normal veterinary care as well as a pre-breeding examination prior to the birth of her puppies. She should be tested and treated for parasites and must be up to date on her vaccinations. If possible, the father of the puppies should be health screened and current on all vaccinations. Whelping Box A big step is introducing your dog to her whelping box in advance of her labor to make sure she is comfortable in the area and feels safe during delivery. The whelping box should be warm we will touch more on this later and quiet. If you have other dogs in the home, they should be kept away from the whelping box once it is introduced, allowing the mother to feel comfortable throughout the entire process. Pre-Birth Items The following are some items you want to make sure to have before your dog goes into labor. Newspaper lining the whelping box may be used as bedding for your dog and her puppies before, during, and after whelping. Towels will be needed to clean off the puppies during whelping. Contact your local vet immediately should any problems arise. Post-Birth Items The following are some items you will need on hand once the first puppy is born, and throughout the litter birthing process. After the birthing process is over, clean the whelping box with paper towels. The Ideal Whelping Heating Pad A whelping heating pad is crucial to have on hand next to and in the whelping box. While you clean the whelping box after the birthing process, you are going to need to place the new puppies onto a safe heating pad so they stay warm. The whelping box must also be warm to prevent illness. Depending on the breed, the temperature of the whelping box will need to remain at a consistent temperature around 80 degrees, making it important to have a pad that is adjustable. The Stanfield heating mat offers high-quality construction that ensures a safe and consistent source of heat and comfort for your puppies. Other cheap competitors construct heating pads that do not provide an evenly-based or fully-sealed heating source, causing unsafe consequences for your pets, including burning the sensitive puppies. Whelping boxes are essential for providing a safe and comfortable environment for newborn puppies. One of the most critical aspects of a whelping box is maintaining an appropriate temperature. Importance of a Warm Whelping Box Newborn Puppy Physiology Newborn puppies are unable to regulate their body temperature efficiently during the first few weeks of their lives. This is due to the fact that their metabolism, fat stores, and fur are not yet fully developed. As a result, they depend on external sources of heat to maintain their body temperature. Hypothermia Risks Inadequate warmth in the whelping box can lead to hypothermia, a potentially life-threatening condition. Hypothermia can cause a variety of health issues, including weakened immune systems, poor growth, and even death. Types of Heat Sources — Heating a Whelping Box There are several options available for heating a whelping box, including heat lamps and heating pads. Heating Pads Heating pads are a popular choice for warming whelping boxes. They come in various sizes and styles, including electric and microwaveable options. Electric heating pads typically have adjustable temperature settings, which allow you to control the warmth provided. We use the K and H lectro kennel pad. Ours have lasted over 4 years. To use a heating pad in a whelping box: Choose a heating pad designed specifically for pets, as these are made with safety features and appropriate temperature ranges. Place the heating pad on one side of the whelping box, leaving the other side without heat to provide a cooler area for the puppies to move to if they become too warm. Cover the heating pad with a soft blanket or towel to provide additional comfort and prevent direct contact with the heat source. Check the temperature of the pad regularly to ensure it remains at an appropriate level. These lamps emit infrared radiation, which can provide warmth without direct contact. Direct the lamp towards one side of the box to create a temperature gradient, allowing the puppies to move between warmer and cooler areas as needed. Monitor the temperature of the whelping box regularly using a reptile thermostat that hangs into the box, turning off and on as needed. Provide a temperature gradient by placing the heat source on one side of the box, allowing the puppies to self-regulate their temperature by moving between the warmer and cooler areas. As the puppies grow, you can gradually reduce the temperature. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature regularly and adjust the heat source as needed. Using a thermostat will also save you a ton of energy and money in the long run on your electricity bill! Adjust the temperature accordingly. Conclusion Heating a whelping box is essential to ensure the health and well-being of newborn puppies. By using a heat lamp or heating pad, you can create a warm and comfortable environment that supports their growth and development. With proper care and attention, you can help your puppies thrive during their first critical weeks of life. Now that you know all about your box, read about whelping here FAQs What is the ideal temperature for a whelping box? As the puppies grow older, you can gradually reduce the temperature. How long do puppies need a heat source in the whelping box? Puppies generally need a heat source in the whelping box for the first three to four weeks of their lives, after which they can better regulate their body temperature. Can I use a human heating pad for my puppies? How often should I check the temperature in the whelping box? This will help ensure that the environment remains safe and comfortable for the puppies. Are there any safety concerns when using a heat source in a whelping box? Monitor the temperature regularly to ensure the whelping box remains at a safe and comfortable level for the puppies. The puppies have arrived. They have been weighed and identified; they have nursed and are now sleeping quietly except for the normal twitching. Now what? Your job is not over yet, in fact, it's really just beginning. Nutrition and Feeding The mother will be ready for some food and water. Bring the dishes to the whelping box, as she will not want to leave the newborn puppies. Do not leave the dishes on the floor in the whelping box, as the puppies could crawl into them. Hang the dishes from the side of the whelping box or offer her food and water at least every hours to start. She should be taken outside on a frequent and regular basis to relieve herself. Within days, the mother's appetite will dramatically increase to times her pre-pregnancy intake. She will need a near constant supply of a high quality puppy food do NOT use large breed puppy formulas, which are generally lower in protein, fat, and minerals and water to maintain her weight and health while feeding the puppies. She should not look gaunt or thin if her weight is maintained. Ideally, she should weigh the same at the time of weaning, as she did when she was bred. A healthy puppy is firm, plump, and vigorous. Puppies should nurse every 2 hours or so. If they nurse until their stomachs appear round and they sleep quietly, they are eating enough. If they are crying and moving a lot, they are not eating enough. They may be swallowing air, which makes the stomach appear larger. As they become weaker, they will lay still and not cry. Their weight should double in the first days. Before, during, and after nursing, the mother will lick the stomach and perineal area to stimulate urination and defecation. She will continue to do this for weeks. Weigh the puppy daily for the first 2 weeks, then weigh at least weekly. A food scale typically works well for weighing the puppies. Failure to gain weight is often the first sign of illness in puppies. At about 3 weeks of age, the puppies will begin to imitate the mother's eating and drinking. A secure shallow water dish should now be available at least part of the day. Prepare the puppy mush by placing 2 cups of high quality dry puppy food in a blender with .This should be blended until the consistency of human infant cereal. This feeds puppies of a medium-sized breed. The puppies should receive meals a day of this to start. Once the puppies have checked it out, walked in it, and have eaten some, the mother can be allowed to finish it and clean the puppies off. Each week, increase the amount of food, decrease the amount of the milk replacer and water that is added and the time of blending, so by 7 weeks of age, the puppies are eating dry food. Once they are on dry food, it may be left in with the puppies when the mother is out of the box or the meal times can continue. As the puppies eat more solid food, the mother may be let away from the puppies for an ever longer period of time. If the weaning is not rushed, she will naturally start decreasing milk production, as the puppies increase their intake of solid food. As the puppies begin eating the puppy mush at 4 weeks of age, start changing the mother's diet back to adult food to also help her decrease milk production. Keep increasing the adult food and decreasing the puppy food until by the 7th week postpartum she is eating only adult food. Hopefully she has been fed well during pregnancy and lactation so she weighs the same at weaning as she did before pregnancy. Want to learn how to save on your dog's veterinary care? Click here Sanitation and Housebreaking During and after whelping, the mother should be allowed to go outside to urinate and defecate. Take her out on a leash bring a flashlight if it is dark , and watch her closely, as she could have another puppy. The whelping box needs to be changed at least once a day at this stage, and times a day as the puppies begin eating solids and the mother is not cleaning up after them. A large heavy paper may be laid on the bottom, several layers of newspaper over that, and a tightly stretched blanket over the newspaper. The blanket should be large enough to fit under all 4 sides of the box. If the box was made so the sides set into the floor, the sides are picked up, the blanket stretched, and the sides set down to hold the blanket in place. Puppies can become lost under blankets or under wrinkles in blankets. When cleaning, check the consistency and color of the puppy stool. It should be brown and formed, but not overly firm. Any deviations and the veterinarian should be contacted. To facilitate housebreaking, the puppies should be given definite feeding, playing, sleeping, and elimination areas. Once the puppies are mobile, they will use one area for elimination. Cover this area with a layer of newspapers with cedar or pine shavings on top. The new owners then place a small amount of cedar or pine shavings in the preferred location of their yard to aid in housebreaking. Keep the elimination area clean and dry. Puppies head toward the heat source to nurse so do not have the heat source warmer than the mother. Hanging a household thermometer on the inside of the whelping box will help you know the temperature in the box. Puppies typically lay side by side or on top of each other to share warmth. If the puppies are scattered throughout the whelping box and away from the heat lamp, the temperature is too warm. If they are all piled on top of each other, it may be too cold. Puppies need the extra heat, as they are unable to regulate their body temperature until several weeks old. Health of the Mother Each mammary gland and nipple should be checked at least once a day for redness, hardness, discharge, or streaking color. If mastitis develops, the veterinarian should be notified immediately. If caught early, milking out the affected gland and applying hot compresses will help prevent a spread of the problem. Sometimes, antibiotics are necessary. If she gets multiple glands with mastitis, the puppies will need to be bottle fed. The puppies' nails should be trimmed weekly starting within days of birth. This will help prevent some of the scratches on the mother's mammary glands. The deciduous teeth start coming in around day .Check the mammary glands of the mother daily for bite marks. The mother will have a bloody discharge from her vulva which may be quite heavy for several days. It should decrease in amount and become darker and be almost gone within weeks. The mother's hair may have become very thick and luxurious during the pregnancy. Around the time of weaning, the mother starts to shed. This extreme loss of hair coat is natural and it should be back to normal in about another months. This shedding is more extreme than a normal shed cycle and some mothers become quite bald. This is often called 'blowing a coat. Click here Puppy Healthcare Puppies who are not thriving should be examined as soon as possible by a veterinarian to check for birth defects. Some defects, such as a cleft palate are not compatible with life. These puppies should be humanely euthanized. Dewclaws are removed and tails docked at days of age. Make an appointment with your veterinarian for these procedures to be done. Check your breed's standard, as some breeds need to have dewclaws left intact in order to show. Tail length changes, so again, the current breed standard should be consulted. When the puppies are at the clinic and having these procedures done, the mother should be taken for a walk around the block until the puppies are done. She should not be close enough to the clinic to hear the puppies crying. Once they are put back with the mother, the puppies normally nurse and then sleep. Vaccinations are started at weeks of age. Some breeders give a parvo virus vaccine at 5 weeks of age, if the puppies are at a high-risk. Ask your veterinarian if your puppies should be vaccinated early for parvo virus. They recommend puppy deworming for roundworms and hookworms start at 2 weeks of age and be repeated at 4, 6, and 8 weeks of age. Thereafter, use a heart worm preventive medication that is also effective against hookworms and roundworms. Foster and Smith suggest that owners of newly acquired puppies obtain the deworming history of their new pup and contact their veterinarian to determine if additional deworming is needed. The mother should be dewormed at the same time as the puppies. A health check done by a veterinarian at weeks of age before the puppies head for new homes should include checks for heart murmurs, hernias, cryptorchidism, demodectic mange, other parasites, eye disorders, etc. Normal puppy development The umbilical cord normally falls off within days of birth. Infections of the umbilicus are rare in clean, well-managed kennels. Puppies normally twitch and jerk while sleeping. This helps with the development of their nerves and muscles. The puppies crawl well by days, walk at 16 days, and have a normal gait at 21 days. They need to be on footing that offers traction. By 4 weeks of age, the puppies follow each other and carry toys in their mouths. They will play-fight with each other and learn how to inhibit their bites. If a puppy bites a littermate too hard, the littermate will yelp and stop playing with him. If the puppy is allowed to bite humans, he will not learn to inhibit his bite. It may be cute as a 7-week old, but it will not be as a 7-year old. Puppies are born without teeth. The deciduous baby teeth start to erupt at weeks of age. All of the deciduous teeth are usually present by 8 weeks of age. The puppies' eyes will open around days of age. The retina matures around 21 days of age. Puppies should see clearly by 4 weeks of age. Do not pry open the lids for any reason, as the immature eye is not yet ready to handle light. If the eyes appear swollen before they open, take the puppy to a veterinarian immediately as an eye infection may be present that needs to be treated to prevent loss of vision. Some puppies will take a day to open the eyes while others will take days. The eyes will have a bluish color to them at first and then change to their adult color over time. If the eyes appear white or solid blue, take the puppy to the veterinarian right away. The ears open at days of age. They should hear clearly by 4 weeks of age. Deafness may not be noticeable while the puppies are together and first noticed when the puppy is in her new home. Interactions Between the Mother and Puppies By the time the puppies are weeks old, the mother should have an area near the whelping box, but separate from the puppies to allow her time to rest. At about this time, the puppies will start trying to leave the box to explore. They should be well supervised and have safe toys available. The box at this point should be big enough to be divided between eating, sleeping, playing, and eliminating rooms. At this stage, a crate with the door removed and lined with sheepskin or a dog bed can be given to the puppies for sleeping quarters and to familiarize them with crates. Puppy Socialization Early socialization of the puppies will help them become confident and develop fewer behavior problems. The puppies should be exposed to everything possible from metal food dishes dropping, to vacuums, garage doors opening and closing, thunderstorms, sirens, garbage trucks going past, cats, and other pets, etc. Do not try to keep the area quiet during the day. The puppies need to get used to normal household noises. Children should be allowed to play outside the whelping box supervised so they do not enter the box or drop toys in , as children behave differently than adults. Everything the puppy is exposed to now, will help her become a well-socialized, unafraid adult. The puppies should be handled several times a day. They can be picked up, their teeth looked at, ears checked, toes played with nails will need a weekly trimming , and have anything that may be done as an adult started slowly now. Play helps to develop the puppy's mind, as he needs to find solutions to problems he encounters. If the puppies are not in new homes by 10 weeks of age, they should be separated from each other for a large part of the day and given one-on-one time with humans. They can have play times during the day, but they should eat, sleep, and be handled separately. Being in a kennel group situation beyond weeks of age decreases trainability. Ready to start saving money on pet wellness care? Then take a look at Mint Wellness, the pet wellness plan that provides fast reimbursement on routine pet care. Save on vaccinations, wellness exams, preventatives, dental, and more! Rememebr it will be a scary time for them having only spent time with litter mates in a Puppy Whelping Box. The mother and her puppies will benefit from high-quality care by being healthy and feeling safe. Puppy growth requires a lot of attention in the first few weeks, even though they are adorable and cuddly. If you ever have to take care of young puppies, keep in mind some of the following. Caring for newborn puppies with a Puppy whelping box Nothing in raising pups is more exciting than the first few minutes after birth when you finally get to greet the new litter. The bedding must be changed all the time because there can be drainage and trash in the area over the ensuing several weeks. Keeping a healthy environment for the mother and the puppies requires cleanliness. The mother should be given sufficient rest with her pups without interruption because she just gave birth. If their mother is there, they will make an effort to remain cuddled up with her. And depend on her body heat as well as that of each other to stay warm. They rely on outside sources for warming because they are unable to control their body temperature keeping them safe inside the puppy whelping box with a heat pad is certainly the best scenerio. Because they will spend their first few weeks in the box or enclosure in which they were born. The area should allow the mother to walk easily while retaining the puppies enclosed and should provide sufficient room for her to lie on the floor and spread out pleasantly without suffocating them. Regular inspections to look for indications of infection or ill health should be a part of new puppy nursing. While socialising your puppy only takes a few weeks, the skills it learns in its first few months of life will serve it well for the rest of its life. When compared to small litters, large puppy litters might whelp three to four days earlier. The whelping area should be tidy, peaceful, and give a relaxing atmosphere. By that time, they have developed the bladder and bowel control necessary to learn how to hold it. If your puppy has been urinating in a cage and eating their waste. Since they were older than 12 weeks old when you bring them home, housebreaking them may take longer. How frequently must a puppy eat? In general, newborn puppies eat every two to three hours. The box for formulas should specify how much to give them. Your puppy may require more or less than what the box suggests. You might observe your puppy biting or chewing its bottle when it is 3 to 4 weeks old. This suggests that they might be prepared to start consuming soft or semi-solid foods. Between the ages of 4 and 6 weeks, your puppy should be able to consume solid food on its own from a dish. For amounts, go by the instructions on their food bag. Puppies between the ages of 6 and 12 weeks should typically be fed four times each day. How do you begin potty training a dog at home? This location can be a backyard or a balcony, and it will have all the tools you need for training nearby, including puppy pee pads, a bathroom, and an odour-destroyer. Be prepared to take your dog to their spot once you have the timetable prepared. Conclusion Although taking care of a newborn puppy requires a lot of work and training , the first few weeks pass quickly.

Plus 9 Tips on What to Look For! French bulldogs have become quite a craze with everybody wanting to bring this bundle of fun into their lives. The French bulldog is an expensive breed but their price is well worth it. They are an absolute charmer, smart, playful, and affectionate. Their cute face, adorable bat ears, wrinkly face, and short noses are hard to resist. French Bulldogs have every trait of a good pet dog. They are an extremely sociable breed and will be unhappy and depressed if left alone for long hours. So, now the question is where do I buy a French bulldog? A French bulldog can be purchased from an ethical, local breeder. Use local shelters, vets, or ask other French bulldog owners about recommended breeders. It is best to seek a breeder who has been in the market for several years, maintains pedigrees of the French bulldogs lineage and health, has medical history of vaccinations and health, and has professional references. Always take your time to perform due diligence on the breeder. This is not something that should be done hastily because you want to be sure you find a great breeder and the right French bulldog for YOU. Adoption is also a great choice but this may come with added responsibility and health issues that need to be tended to. My wife and I adopted our bulldog Daisy, but it was the right fit for our family. Owning a French bulldog can definitely change your life for the better. But owning one of these snuggle buddies requires work and patience. To help you know if a Frenchie is right for you here are 8 must know tips. So, if you want a Frenchie the first thing you should know is their potential genetic problems and behavior problems. You may end up paying thousands and thousands of dollars for a sick Frenchie. Due to the brachycephalic airway syndrome, these dogs are susceptible to a multitude of health problems. Most of these health issues are non-life threatening but can escalate the vet bills. Therefore, it is imperative to look for a healthy well-bred Frenchie, even if you have to pay more. Although small, French bulldogs may have a stubborn streak in them making them a little bit more difficult to train than other dogs. French bulldogs do not need a lot of exercises. Frenchies have fairly low energy levels. So, if you want to take your dog for long hikes on trails, then a Frenchie is not for you. They are loud breathers and snore a lot. This is due to the general makeup of their airways. French bulldogs suffer from digestive issues and can easily get constipated. They are extremely affectionate and want nothing but the love and attention of their owners. They are the happiest in the company of their owners sitting in their laps. Typically, French bulldogs do not bark excessively and can make wonderful apartment dogs. French bulldogs are excellent with children and also get along with other pets, as long as they are just playful. Before you buy be sure to do your homework. Here are several pointers that should help you in your search for the perfect fur buddy. A reputable and ethical breeder invests in genetic testing of their breeding stock and will be able to prove the same to you. An ethical breeder will not allow a dog who has been tested positive for genetic problems to be used for breeding. If a puppy is bred correctly and has an excellent health history then there is little chance of it developing any health problems. Your breeder should also be able to provide you the documentation of the vaccinations of the first 8 to 10 weeks of the pup. Good breeders will allow their breeding stock to have one or two litter every year so that they can protect the health of the female French bulldog. Even if there are multiple breeding females, a good breeder makes sure they do not have litters within the same period. So, ask the breeder about their breeding policy. Beware of the unethical breeders who exploit dogs and scam the potential owners. It is advisable to visit the facility and make sure that the dogs live in a positive and clean environment. A reputable breeder will not have several litters at once and also a variety of dog breeds for sale. An ethical breeder will also not try to let the puppy go before they are 8 to 10 weeks old. It can be dangerous for the puppy to be introduced into a new environment without prior vaccinations. Do not fall for what seems to be an abnormally low price. Ask the breeder about the health history of the parents as Frenchies have severe health issues in their bloodlines. Check for the eyes of the puppy as well as the parents for redness or any other issues. Always ask the breeder to show you the parents so that you know what your pup will grow into. It may not be always possible to see the father but this is a must with the mother. Ask the breeder if the puppies have been socialized. You can also ask the breeder for references who would have previously bought a French bulldog puppy from them. A refusal from the breeder should raise red flags! If a breeder is not telling you what you need to know, then just walk away. If you did not get a French bulldog that was AKC registered, you may find value in it, and the process in having your bulldog AKC registered is fairly simple. There are a lot of differences between male and female Frenchies in terms of personalities and temperaments. Male French bulldogs are more playful, mischievous, and assertive. On the other hand, females are often more docile, moody, dominating, and affectionate between the two. Female bulldogs are typically easier to house train than their male counterparts. Female dogs, although timid, get aggressive quickly if tempted and often more temperamental as puppies. They become calmer with age. Male French bulldogs also have the same problem but are less aggressive than females. These are some typical personality traits, however, the personality of a French bulldog is also dependent on the environment they live in, how they are raised, and trained. Spaying and neutering French bulldogs will also make a huge difference in their personalities, curtailing a lot of negative traits in both the sexes. Spaying and neutering French bulldogs reduces their health issues, makes them calmer, and easier to train. Another difference between a male and a female French bulldog is the difference in cost. Female French bulldogs are more expensive than the male French bulldogs because you can choose to breed her. Male Frenchies have big heads and a larger physical frame. They weigh more than females and are more susceptible to health problems than females. Male puppies are more energetic than females, who tend to be more relaxed. It ultimately boils down to the level of care and training you put into your dog. Why are French bulldogs so expensive? French bulldogs are expensive because of the expenses required for breeding and caring for them. The price of a French bulldog depends upon the number of puppies in the litter, color of fur, and the genes carried. French bulldogs come in an array of different colors. French bulldogs in rarer colors can cost a whopping price. The color of a French bulldog is dependent upon the genes of their parents. But some most common colors of French bulldogs are white, fawn, brindle, or pied white and brindle. Lilac, blue, and chocolate are rare colors and cost more than the other colors. Blue French bulldogs have a blue coat which is the result of a genetic disorder called color dilution Alopecia. French bulldogs are not easy dogs to breed and there are lots of reasons for this. If you are seriously thinking about bringing a French bulldog into your home you should know all the pros and cons of owning a Frenchie. Exorbitant Tests and Procedures A series of pricey tests and procedures are done during the breeding process. Progesterone tests These tests are required to know when exactly is the female ovulating. Blood tests are also needed to make sure the female is healthy and strong enough to carry puppies. Artificial insemination and c-section A natural way of mating is hardly accessible and therefore, female French bulldogs have to be artificially inseminated. This whole process is time-consuming and expensive. French bulldogs have relatively large heads and shoulders and so a female French bulldog cannot birth naturally as the birthing canal is very small and cannot handle the labor. Another reason is their narrow hips. The large heads and shoulders of puppies can also get stuck and can result in injury or their death. Therefore, all the French bulldog puppies are delivered through c-section, which is an expensive procedure. Then come the pregnancy tests, prenatal care, including check-ups, a good diet, supplements — all adding up the cost. High Protein Diet A French bulldog female also needs to be fed a high protein diet to induce lactation and to help her provide the puppies with plenty of vitamins. Constant Attention and Care French bulldog puppies can also not be left alone with their mommy for the first several days. A female French bulldog is a very good mom but can sometimes unknowingly roll over her babies and suffocate them. Newborn French bulldog puppies also need to be fed every three hours and require a great deal of care and attention. Health Issues Because they are brachycephalic dogs flat face they are prone to more health problems, especially breathing issues. Their skin folds look cute but can easily become infected. They are also susceptible to eye conditions like the cherry eye, and other problems such as hip dysplasia, joint disorders, and heart problems. A good breeder will conduct tests to ensure the pup does not have any of the preventable genetic health problems. Another reason for the high cost of the French bulldog is that their litter is relatively small with only one or two puppies. After understanding how much time, money, effort goes into the breeding of French bulldog puppies, you should have a new appreciation for the breeders. High-quality food, vet bills, toys, medicines, vaccinations, treats make breeding the French bulldogs an expensive affair. Despite the plethora of health issues associated with the extreme facial features of the French bulldog, there is a staggering demand for the French bulldog puppies which has given a fillip to unscrupulous and unethical breeding of this wonderful breed. From where you buy a French bulldog is your choice. However, always research carefully about where your French bulldog puppy comes from and buy them only from reputable breeders. It is important to do your homework on the breeder. The French bulldog is by no means a cheap breed but having pet insurance can surely mitigate those worries. Plus 4 Recommended Plans. But if you are looking for a furry companion who will have you amused and in splits all day, then look no further! Life is much better with a Frenchie. Post Views: .They are also big business today! Why do we mention this unpleasant fact up front? This is the only way to avoid falling prey to puppy mill scams that breed unhealthy Frenchie puppies. Researching Reputable French Bulldog Breeders The information included in this article can absolutely help you in your quest to identify a reputable, responsible, health-focused French Bulldog breeder that can sell you a healthy Frenchie puppy. Identifying Responsible French Bulldog Breeders A responsible French Bulldog breeder will demonstrate a consistent commitment to breeding healthy, happy puppies. What does this mean, exactly? Read on for specifics. Commitment to breed health and temperament Responsible breeders will voluntarily conduct pre-mating genetic health tests and participate in health oversight and research organizations like CHIC, the Canine Health Information Center database. Adherence to breed standards Responsible Frenchie breeders will voluntarily provide proof of purebred registry with the appropriate oversight organization. Proper care and socialization of puppies Responsible French Bulldog breeders will provide new puppy owners with a comprehensive packet including but not limited to puppy registration and pedigree certification, proof of microchip, veterinary clearance, remaining vaccination schedule, initial good health guarantee, take-back guarantee and food recommendations. As of time of publication, the Frenchie is now the number one most popular dog in the United States — a record previously held for over three decades by the Labrador Retriever! This means you need to know each of these red flags for unscrupulous breeders backward and forwards when searching for a French Bulldog puppy. Multiple litters from the same breeder available simultaneously Any dog breeder that advertises multiple litters of puppies for sale or back-to-back or year-round litters of puppies for sale may be operating as a French Bulldog puppy mill. Unwillingness to provide pedigree and health records Any dog breeder that sells Frenchie puppies without proof of registration, pedigree, proof of pre-mating health clearances and proof of puppy clean bill of health is a potential puppy mill. Questions To Ask A French Bulldog Breeder French Bulldog puppy mill breeders are literally counting on demand for Frenchie puppies to ensure they never have to answer any questions about how they breed and supply their puppies. In other words, unless you ask, they will never tell. So you must ask! Inquiries about breed-specific health concerns A health-focused, responsible French Bulldog breeder will care about the health of the breed itself, their personal breeding lineage and the puppy you are purchasing. This type of breeder is happy to answer questions about known genetic French Bulldog health concerns, especially the tendency towards serious lifelong health issues such as BOAS Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. These breeders may even volunteer this vital information before you ask! Expectations for potential French Bulldog owners French Bulldog breeders that care about their operation and its reputation will have their own pre-screening protocols for prospective puppy buyers. Pre-screening protocols may include an agreement to limitations on breeding rights, purchase of pet insurance, proof of initial veterinary exam requirements and more. However, if possible, try your best to check off each of these boxes before committing to purchase a Frenchie puppy. Observing Litter Dynamics Litter dynamics is a fancy way of saying you need to check to be sure the puppies get along with each other and the mother dog…not to mention new human guests like you! Interaction between puppies Appropriate puppy behavior is an indication that puppies have been permitted to remain with the mother dog and each other long enough to get some socialization pre-training under their belts. Puppy socialization and early development Puppies go through two fear periods as they grow up. The first period is from 8 to 11 weeks and the second period is from 6 to 14 months. Puppies that are properly fed, handled and socialized will demonstrate basic self-confidence and a playful nature when you bring them home. This will help them successfully weather the fear periods, especially the first one that begins about the time they come home with you. French Bulldog Puppy Temperament Assessment You should know going in how to assess the temperament in any Frenchie puppy you are considering. Personality traits to consider The official French Bulldog breed standard gives you insight into basic breed temperament traits to watch for. Playful, affectionate, even-tempered, alert and active are all hallmarks of the Frenchie breed. You can also make use of various standardized tests. Physical French Bulldog Puppy Evaluation While your canine veterinarian will be the ultimate authority when it comes to a physical evaluation, you can also do a basic evaluation at first meeting. Appearance and conformation Look for clear eyes and ears, healthy skin and coat and clean private areas. Also be aware that aggression or shyness can be signs of budding health issues. Checking for potential health concerns French Bulldog clubs in different geographic areas can be a great resource to find local temperament, conformation and health testing resources for your new prospective Frenchie puppy. But is the Frenchie the right dog breed for you? Activity Level and Exercise Requirements Frenchies adapt quite readily to life in smaller spaces. Their exercise needs are moderate and they are heat-intolerant so the indoor life suits them just fine. Time Commitment and Availability The Frenchie may not be a natural athlete, but a puppy of any breed are always going to have more energy and need more of your time and care than an adult version of the same. Your Frenchie puppy will need your help with potty training, mealtimes, initial and ongoing training and socialization, interactive playtime , bedtime routine, daily walks and more. It is a good idea to be sure you have sufficient time for all of this every single day before signing the breeder contract. Essential Supplies Reputable French Bulldog breeders should provide you with a specific list of supplies they recommend, including puppy food and transitional food for adults of the breed. The breeder may also send you home with a starter pack of food, toys , bedding and a l eash or harness. But child-proof latches and puppy gates will get you off to a good start. Here again, your local French Bulldog breed club and your canine veterinarian will be excellent resources for you to find convenient puppy training and socialization classes, play groups, dog parks and other essentials. Making the right decision on a French Bulldog Puppy can be a wonderful experience for your family Making the Final Decision Sooner or later, the big moment will come — decision-time. Are you ready? How can you know for sure? Additionally, be aware that French Bulldogs frequently come with added health challenges and associated expenses. Pet insurance may help with some of these potential costs. Selecting the Perfect French Bulldog Puppy Buying a puppy is a decades-long commitment — and investment. As such, you may have your exhaustive wish list of color, gender, size, pedigree and all that good stuff. But underneath it all, what matters most is good health. A healthy puppy of any size, gender and color is much more likely to be a happy and rewarding member of your family over the long term. This is even more crucial for French Bulldogs, since their short brachycephalic muzzle shape means they typically cannot be transported via commercial airline cargo. Conclusion Becoming a pawrent is a huge commitment and you want to get started on the right foot…. You can use all of the information provided in this article to do your due diligence before committing to your forever Frenchie puppy. Good luck and be sure to stop back by and let us know how it is going! Additionally, in her twin roles as freelance pet writer and animal communicator, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. Close share Copy link Some of our readers who are not owners of French Bulldogs yet and intends to buy one, have repeatedly asked us to put together an article like this one, so we can properly guide them in buying their first French Bulldog. Though, if you are already a Frenchie Mom or Dad, trust you may still find the information here quite useful. In this piece, we'll give you a checklist of questions and warning signs to look out for while buying a French Bulldog puppy in order to ensure that you have an amazing experience with your new pet. Flow with me. Some of us are owners of Frenchies, while some of us just love the cute little pet. No doubt, French Bulldogs are a bundle of joy, and if you have decided to go for one, you have made the right decision. Just like while getting any valuable thing in your life, you want to be properly guided. When you get to the breeder, you'll notice that this dog is unlike some breed of dogs get along with human beings very easily, especially during their puppy life. So, you may find one or more playing with you even without knowing who you are. That feeling is indescribable when they are all over you. You are just going to love it - to say the least. But that can be a trap. Don't give in to it. French Bulldogs can play on your emotions, and you'll fall in love with them right at the breeder's place and forget to do the proper due diligence before actually going home with one. So, after your warn reception, its fine if you already have developed a soft spot for one, but still go-ahead to do the right thing. There are some very unscrupulous breeders, who carelessly breed dogs with the ill-health condition. French Bulldogs have some common health conditions, you should also try to familiarize yourself with some of these. Other important tips you should note is that male Frenchie puppies are more energetic while the females are more relaxed. There are other subtle behavioral differences too. Also, ensure that you are buying from a reputable breeder, one who is knowledgeable about breeding and caring for French Bulldog puppies. If they assure you that it is a quality breed and yet give you an abnormally low price, it may be too good to be true - don't yield! Check the eyes of the puppy, if they look red, it may be a sign of a health problem. Let's jump right into the questions you should ask a breeder before buying a French Bulldog. Buy a puppy of a mother who has only had only one litter, more than that means over-breeding and can lead to serious health implications; Ask if the puppy has been checked by a Vet; Ask to see the Puppy's parents; Ask if the parents have had health checks. Look out for conditions such as hip problems, cataracts, cherry eye, deafness, and soft palate issues; Ask to see the parent's medical history; Ask how old the parents are. It is preferable to buy the puppy of a mother who is over 3 years old because by less than 3 years, some genetic defects, may not have manifested yet; Ask about where the puppies have been living. Their previous living condition will go a long to have an impact on their training while with you. If they have had minimal contacts with a human being, training them might be a little bit more difficult than puppies that have interacted with human beings. Ask to speak to a previous client. Failure to offer these references may mean that there may be something about their puppies that they are hiding. There you go, what to look out for when buying a French Bulldog Puppy. Are there other things you think one should look out for? You can share your experience when you bought your Frenchie below, let's learn. Thanks for reading Frenchie. Shop French Bulldog Article. Ideally they need owners around all day. Common health problems in French Bulldogs French Bulldogs are playful and fun-loving dogs who love spending time with their owners. Sadly, like so many other purebred dogs, they are at risk of certain conditions relating to their breed. If you are thinking of buying a French Bulldog puppy , make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by certain conditions. Frenchies are a flat-faced breed, which can often cause breathing problems and means they overheat quickly especially when they exercise in warmer weather. Some of the conditions Frenchies may develop include: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS — this can cause severe breathing problems and is caused by their shorter faces. Parents should be screened before breeding. Luxating patellas — where the kneecaps slipping temporarily out of place. Dental problems — shorter faced dogs often have crowded teeth with can cause dental problems. A range of eye problems, including cataracts there is screening for this. Back problems such as Intervertebral disc disease — where the discs that provide cushioning between the vertebrae back bones bulge or burst, pressing on nerves in the spine. Skin conditions — particularly skin fold dermatitis where the skin in their wrinkles gets inflamed and sore or even infected. Hyperuricosuria — a condition where stones or crystals can form in urine causing infections, difficulty passing urine or blood in urine. If you want to minimise the risk of your dog getting problems due to exaggerated features, you can read our advice on choosing a pedigree dog. Caring for your French Bulldog Frenchies are loving dogs, known for being quite laid-back and happy to fit in with family life. French Bulldogs can be lower maintenance because they tend to prefer shorter walks, but they definitely have huge characters and personalities and will do anything for a bit of fuss and attention! French Bulldogs and barking As with any breed, your Frenchie is likely to make noise. How much they make is completely down to the individual, their training and personality. Training and socialisation French Bulldogs are eager to please their owners which can make them easy to train, but are also known to be strong-willed at times. They are a sensitive breed, so respond best to positive, reward-based training which needs to be started from an early age. This will help them grow into confident adults and help their laid-back nature shine through. They thrive off company and so could develop separation anxiety if left alone. Exercise Although Frenchies are thought to be less high maintenance than some breeds when it comes to exercise, they still love to keep busy and exercising is a huge part of that. Your French Bulldog will need up to an hour of exercise every day. This should be split into a few shorter walks, with time to play off-lead in a secure area and have a good sniff around. As a flat-faced breed, French Bulldogs can overheat and struggle to breathe really quickly, especially in warmer weather. Make sure you can recognise the signs of heatstroke in your dog. Early mornings and later in the evenings would be better times to go for a walk in the summer. Due to the extra rolls of skin around their face, French Bulldogs are at risk of developing something called skin fold dermatitis. You can clean them with damp cotton wool pads but always make sure to dry them thoroughly after. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate French Bulldogs and children Frenchies are known for being pretty laid back and adaptable, so they tend to get along well with children of all ages which makes them popular family pets. Always supervise your dog with children and vulnerable adults. French Bulldogs do have a high prey drive. If they have grown up with a cat in the home, they will be fine with that cat but are likely to chase unfamiliar cats and smaller pets. You should always supervise your dog with family pets and introduce them slowly from a young age. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your Frenchie should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. Flat-faced breeds such as Frenchies can suffer from reflux or struggle to swallow their food. Speak to your vet for more information about how to manage this at home. Try to feed your dog at similar times every day as they like routine. Remember to leave a gap between eating and exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. PDSA Pet Insurance Fun facts An early version of the breed were used by lace makers in the UK shortly before the industrial revolution to warm their laps while they worked. French Bulldogs are known for their big, bat-like ears. They are lovable dogs who fit easily into family life, but come with a lot of extra responsibility and potentially higher healthcare costs. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a French Bulldog. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in French Bulldogs are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. This question is usually accompanied with wanting a list of questions to be asking the French Bulldog breeder. Based on this feedback I wanted to give you the ultimate list of questions to ask, plus all the warning signs that should make you walk away. Not just warning sings about the French Bulldog puppy, but also her mother and the breeder too. Things to know before buying a French Bulldog puppy The moment you see that adorable French Bulldog puppy for the first time will last with you forever, it certainly did with me when we first met our own dog. Just take a step back for a second as there will be some red flags to watch for. I wish we had, but luckily, our dog ended up being ok, but it could have been very different: French Bulldogs are a notorious breed for health problems and unscrupulous breeders. With their cute squashed faces and cuddly squat bodies, they will tug at your heart strings. You will be tempted to just take that French Bulldog puppy and go. But please, please, please… before you do that, here are some things you should check before you pay your money. Your French Bulldog will become a huge part of your life, but make sure you know what to look for before you buy a puppy. Read these before you spend the money. By doing this due diligence you should hopefully get a puppy that not only fits your family and lifestyle, but also lives a long and happy life. You want to choose one that has a track record, online reviews, and a good reputation in the French Bulldog world… not some first timer nobody has heard of. Be suspicious of low prices: If the French Bulldog puppies are advertised as a lower than average price, be wary. The old adage about if it looks too good to be true is almost always the case with puppies. Low prices can be a sign of an unhealthy litter. Find out how many litters the mother has had already: French Bulldog mothers should not have anything more than one litter each year. The best scenario would be a litter every couple of years. More pregnancies than this mean she has been over-bred and both her and the puppies could have health problems. Look out for serious conditions and hereditary issues including dwarfism, hip and spine issues, soft palate issues, eye problems, and hearing problems. I would recommend getting a puppy from a French Bulldog older than this just to be sure. Before 8 weeks of age, they should still be with her, and it can also help you understand what type of dog your puppy will grow up to be. If the breeder refuses access to the mother, walk away. Ask where the puppies have been living: If the French Bulldogs have been in a dark garage away from human interaction it will mean they will be harder to socialize and harder to train. Ask how often the French Bulldogs have been handled: When puppies are regularly handled by humans, they will be much easier when taken home. Ask whether a vet has checked the puppies: Puppies should have been checked by a vet and had their first set of vaccinations before going to their new home. Ask to speak to a previous buyer:A reputable breeder will let you talk to people who have bought a French Bulldog puppy from them before. If they are unable to supply references and contacts, they could be hiding something. I hope you find these questions to ask a French Bulldog breeder helpful. Please do print them off before you visit the litter and decide to buy. The personality of the French Bulldog breeder This is so often over-looked, but I wanted to add it on as something to look for when buying a French Bulldog puppy. Only buy a French Bulldog puppy from a breeder who is prepared to take the time to answer any questions and concerns you might have. Breeders that treat buyers with respect will most likely extend that kindness to the French Bulldog mother and her puppies. This gives you an indication of what health problems could in store. These can include: Allergies. I know I did when my wife persuaded us to go and see our own dog for the first time. Of the four of them, this one little fella scampered over to me and immediately started chewing on my knuckles. That when I fell in love with him. It was a really simple decision in which one we wanted to take home. As you know, we went on to name him Claude. But, given hindsight, there are some questions I would have asked the breeder before deciding to buy him. And there are also some things I should have looked for too. It was our first ever dog though, so hindsight is a wonderful thing. However, there are unscrupulous breeders and there are certain health and physical problems view all Frenchie health conditions and concerns you should check for before you get too excited. It also includes some questions to ask a breeder when buying a French Bulldog puppy. Choose a male puppy if you want a more energetic dog: or a female if you want a more relaxed dog. There are subtle behavioural differences in the two genders which you can read in this blog post where I discuss the differences between male and female Frenchies. Make sure your breeder is knowledgeable: on breeding and cares for the puppies. I would always do online research into the breeder before I would even visit them. Be wary of what seems to be an abnormally low price: this can be a sign of an unhealthy puppy. Red eye can be a signal of a health problem. Ask the breeder how many litters the mother has had: a French Bulldog should only really have 1 litter a year , preferably only one every couple of years. Any more than that is a warning sign that she is being over-bred, and health issues could be present. Ask if the puppy has been checked by a vet: and has had the relevant vaccinations. If not, walk away as this should be handled by the breeder before the puppies go on sale. It can give you some insight into what type of dog your Frenchie puppy is going to grow into. If the breeder refuses to let you see the mother, then walk away as this is a huge warning sign. Ask if the parents have had health checks: as this can give you insight into any potential health problems further down the line. Conditions to look out for include hip problems, cataracts, cherry eye , deafness, and soft palate issues. Ask how old the parents are: if the mother is less than 3 years old, any genetic health conditions might not yet have manifested themselves. Ask how often the puppies have been handled: the more the young pups have been handled by humans frequently it will be far easier to get him used to all the excitement in store when you get him home. Ask to speak to a previous client: the best breeders will be more than happy to let you talk with people who have previously bought a Frenchie puppy from them. Ask for a hearing test: whilst this might not always be possible, it is a concern. White Frenchies in particular can develop hearing loss at birth due to a congenital issue. You can read more about this my recent French Bulldog hearing loss blog post. Cheap and rude breeders are an absolute no-no. When buying your Frenchie, you need a caring breeder that gladly answers your questions and shows you the parents and tell you about their history and problems. If you are dealing with a breeder who is just looking to make a quick buck and not telling you what you should know then walk away. How to best buy a healthy French bulldog puppy There are several factors you should consider before buying a French Bulldog who is hopefully going to live a healthy life. Sadly Frenchies can have some severe health issues in their bloodlines which you should look out for when purchasing your puppy. Health issues can include:. This popularity attracts them to inexperienced and unscrupulous breeders. So how do you know the difference between a responsible and irresponsible breeder? Dogs Australia registered breeders follow a strict code of breeding ethics, conduct health testing to help reduce the incidence of inherited diseases and, for accountability, and research. This could be the difference between a happy and healthy puppy and a poorly bred one. Dr Hedberg previously bred German Shepherds for over 30 years. Dr Hedberg gives a great guide on what to consider when purchasing a French Bulldog puppy as your new best friend. What is a healthy French Bulldog? Cheerful, deeply affectionate, intelligent, and courageous, yet with clown-like qualities, the French Bulldog is a popular family and companion dog. What health testing should breeders be doing? There is a range of health tests recommended for French Bulldogs. It is strongly recommended that Dogs Australia registered French Bulldog breeders test for the following health conditions in their breeding stock. Most testing is done after 12 months, with respiratory and eye tests done regularly to see how the dog is going over time. Puppies with high numbers of hemivertebrae, especially when in the lumbar area, are not recommended for breeding and placed in lovely pet homes. Dr Karen has seen an improvement in French Bulldog puppies bred by Dogs Australia registered breeders, seeing far fewer spinal issues. What is a well-bred French Bulldog like? Many French Bulldogs participate in Agility and do equally well at Obedience. There are concerns with dogs sold as French Bulldogs who have off-standard colours and coats that are sold for large amounts, for example black and tan, merle and lilac. The long coat gene really shouldn't occur. Dr Karen highlights how the merle and hairless gene do not occur naturally in the French Bulldog and how lethal the merle gene can be in French Bulldogs. Right breed — Have you researched all you need to know about your breed from its natural instincts to grooming? Right Breeder — Is your breeder responsible, operating under a code of ethics, with regulations and health checks? From getting a dog to keeping them happy we will have you covered at dogsaustralia. It champions the highest standard of animal welfare through education and fostering dog-loving communities. Keep Updated Want to stay across the latest news? Sign up here and we will add you to our mailing list.